Questions are submitted by participants during spiritual practice classes 
with Rev. O’Brian.  

Is it ok to share spiritual experiences with others or is it a better practice just to 
internalize the experience and keep it private?

 

In general, it is better not to discuss our spiritual experiences. When we talk 

about them, it can dissipate our energy that would be better used to contemplate 

what has occurred. Also, when we talk too much with others about our inner 

experiences we run the risk of allowing the ego to be too involved. “I” expe-

rienced this, “I” know this. Who is that “I”? Our practices aim to help us get 

beyond that ego-based identity. 
If there is a question about what we experience, it can be useful to talk with our 

spiritual teacher. In this context, we share so that we can be guided and we can 

learn. My guru has never encouraged me to talk about spiritual experiences, even 

with him. This is simply because he has continually guided me to stay focused 

on the ultimate goal, realizing that which is beyond all phenomena or changing 

experiences. There are times, however, when spiritual experiences can be encour-

aging to us. The memory of them lingers and strengthens our faith. 

I am confused when I hear the term “one Reality.” It seems to me that “reality” 
can be interpreted by each person. Everyone determines what “reality” is to 
them. How can you say there is just one reality when it’s obvious that each 
person sees this differently?

When the term “one Reality” is used in the context of yoga philosophy, it refers 

to Absolute Reality, the ground of being, that which makes all creation and all 

variety possible. Absolute Reality is pure existence being. It is eternal, pure, 

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Enlightenment Journal | Winter 2012-2013

On the Path: Questions & Answers