Preparation Prompt: What does transitioning from a self-centered perception of reality to one grounded in altruism entail?

[Julian Edwards- KabU Instructor]

Preparation Prompt: What does transitioning from a self-centered perception of reality to one grounded in altruism entail?

[Sarah]

Well,  I have a really long way to go to understand this. I m full of doubts & questions.  I looked up the word BESTOW in Chamber’s Dictionary, and it means to “give or confer a reward or distinction”, in archaic terms, which leaves it a bit unclear.

Are we being asked to be good & kind to others to please G-d, and to be “like ” Him because of this?
Is this the same as the Mitzvot in Judaism, or is there a subtle Kabbalistic difference?

I m not 100% convinced that I can, or that I ve got the motivation to do it, so am reliant on “science” that will prove it to me, or the light which will affect me because of my efforts.  Its a very big ask if we are being brutally honest, & I m surprised that no-one else seems to mention this problem. Anyone out there ?

[Jack Davidsen]

To shift from an egoistic perception to one based on bestowal is to put your ego to use in a constructive way that opens up a path of connection, the path that is necessary in order to realize the purpose of our whole existence, which of course means to obtain Equivalence of Form and the true experience which is that there is only Him and none else besides.

PS. I know that I sometimes express myself in a way that appears to be convoluted, and difficult to keep track of or understand. I am therefore grateful to be among fellow students who are so great at describing their thoughts very clearly and do so often even with very few words.

[Mel Farrell]

To become less focused on seeking personal pleasure and shifting towards seeking to serve others in order to please the creator

[Cristie]

What does it mean to shift from an egoistic perception of reality to a perception based on bestowal?The mind shift of understanding that we grow from desiring things that benefit or make me feel good to receiving in order to share. We are all connected and the more we connect with others in the spirit of kindness and goodness the more we grow, the more we connect with our creator and the more we bring about world change.

[Bongani]

Shifting from an egoistic perception of reality to a perception based on bestowal involves a fundamental change in how we view the world. Instead of solely focusing on our individual desires and needs, it’s about recognizing a broader, more interconnected reality.

This shift often begins with acknowledging a higher power or force (referred to as God or the Creator) and understanding it as the source of all goodness. This realization forms the basis for a new perspective. It means actively seeking to perceive the underlying good in everything we encounter, attributing it to this higher source – There is none else besides Him.

For example, in daily interactions, it might mean consciously looking for the positive or the opportunity to contribute to others’ well-being rather than just fulfilling personal desires. It involves recognizing that the good we encounter comes from a higher source and aiming to align our thoughts and actions with that inherent goodness.

Practically, it could involve acts of kindness, considering the well-being of others, or simply approaching situations with an intent to find and enhance the positive aspects. This shift is about cultivating a mindset that acknowledges and seeks to connect with the altruistic, positive force within all experiences.

[Sarah]

Thanks, Bongani, thats clear & helpful.

[Kathy]

To understand connectivity and that we are all one spark of a collective soul.

[Author]

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