The Still, Small Voice of the Spirit

The Inner Self is not hiding, but it is difficult to hear. A major reason for difficulty in recognizing and hearing the Inner Self is its nature and its relationship to you.

Far from the self-protecting, self-aggrandizing voice of Ego and the paternal, socially-oriented and rules-obsessed voice of Parent, the Voice of the Inner Self is patient, accepting and very quiet. This voice is connected with 'that which is greater than oneself,' the Mystery.

You can recognize this Voice by its character:

• It speaks only when addressed.
• It suggests, but never prescribes any action.
• It always acknowledges that you control your destiny.
• It never insists on anything.
• It is infinitely patient.
• It is unconditionally supportive.

Your relationship to the Inner Self will be the most intimate and yet most remote relationship you will ever encounter. You will come to see that the degree of its caring is infinite and unfathomable. You also will find that its expansive view of your life presents a sometimes uncomfortable remoteness.

Your Inner Self has no agenda. Whatever you choose to do in whatever circumstance will be perfectly acceptable. It is useful to recognize that, from its totally spiritual perspective, life itself is a learning experience. Even choices you make that will lead eventually to social or financial ruin – or perhaps your demise – are educational. In the greater sense of your existence you learn from it.

As remote and frigid as that may seem, your relationship with your Inner Self also will be filled with the deepest and most moving experiences.

Your Inner Self is the gateway to knowledge about yourself and the world that you most likely cannot access without help. It is the source of inner strength and the access to assistance to achievements beyond your own capabilities. And it is a calm harbor when storms of life become wild and confusing.

This is the Voice, the source with which you want to develop a trusting relationship. With work and with practice, you will eventually be able to connect with this Voice quickly in almost any circumstance. It is always present, even if you cannot hear it.

You will eventually find that you do not speak directly to the Inner Self, but only through its 'spokesman' – or ambassador, if you wish. Yet, be assured that messages from this Voice are messages from the highest place of wisdom within yourself.

This is the point to which all of your efforts in developing skills in inner dialog truly begin to come to fruition. Yet, the journey is not over.

The journey has only begun.