Spiritual Mirror: Why "What About Them?" Misses the Mark

It's all too easy to get lost in abstract debates when we discuss spiritual practices. We find ourselves circling hypothetical situations, considering the "what-ifs" and "what about thems" that take us far from our own experiences. But here's the reality check: spiritual practices are profoundly personal. The issues that come up in these discussions can only truly be addressed within the context of a real person's lived experience.

Let's Keep It Personal, Shall We?

You've probably found yourself, at least once, in a conversation where someone dismisses the potency of a spiritual practice with questions like, "But what about those people who can't meditate because of X reason?" or "What about folks who don't have access to these teachings?" Valid questions, indeed. But here's the thing: this shift from a first-person focus to a hypothetical third-person takes us out of our own journey, and into a realm of abstraction where answers are often unattainable.

The Limited Reach of Hypotheticals

When we steer the conversation toward hypothetical third persons, we distance ourselves from the visceral, personal aspects of spiritual practices. Sure, these practices have universal aspects; but their efficacy must be judged within the unique context of individual experience. There is a saying, "You can only meet another as deeply as you've met yourself." How can we talk about the experiences of a hypothetical third person when we haven't fully explored our own depths?

Addressing the Real, Not the Abstract

Debates that focus on the abstract third person can't capture the transformative impact of spirituality. Those concerns can only truly be tackled by diving deep into the nitty-gritty of someone's life — yes, a real person's real life. Once someone has engaged with a practice, wrestled with its challenges, and experienced its benefits, then they're in a position to speak to its strengths and limitations. Not before.

The Groundwork of Your Own Journey

So the next time you find yourself going down the rabbit hole of hypotheticals, stop and return to the essence of the matter: this is your journey. Your spiritual path is about your transformation, your challenges, and your insights. By focusing on the real-life experiences of yourself or those you genuinely know, you ground the conversation where it can be most productive and enlightening.

Unity in Diversity

Let's keep it real, shall we? Spiritual practices offer their most profound gifts when we engage with them in the context of our own lives. This is not to be confused with a solipsistic approach to practice—of course our lives are interwoven with others. But instead of wondering about the hypothetical third person, turn the mirror toward yourself. Strive to make your friend circle more diverse. It is within these reflections that you'll find the most meaningful answers.