the-unseen1

[the-unseen1]

The Higher Self

WALKING THE PATH TOGETHER

Part 8: The Higher Self

As the Seeker and the Mysterious Stranger leave the cave behind, they are slowly approaching the Third checkpoint. The Stranger watches each of his footsteps with great care. Both are silent.

As the Seeker and the Stranger cross the threshold of the archway gate, they both hear a heavenly chant singing:

“Checkpoint 3 saved”

“Thank god,” mumbles the Stranger silently. “We finally made it.”

The view is stunning. Wide fields of grass and flowers. Hills and mountains. Pine trees and waterfalls. The road is overgrown with weeds.

There is a sign on an obelisk, stating: “You are now entering the land of truth”

As the Stranger and the Seeker proceed on their path, the road ahead transitions more and more into a field of high grass. Until the road is no longer visible.

“Where is the path gone?” asks the Seeker.

“Truth is a pathless land,” responds the Stranger, as he continues walking.

Both of them silently walk through fields of high grass, surrounded by pine trees. They approach the edge of a forest. The ground is muddy. A little stream flows along. Fish are seen in the translucent water. The birds are singing a song.

“There is one thing, I don't quite understand,” says the Seeker after some time of silence. “Who are you actually talking to? Why are we even holding these conversations?”

“You see... What we are doing is becoming conscious of that, which lies in the unconscious. We are shining a light on the shadows, so to speak. We are not judging, resisting nor fighting what lies in the dark. We just want to see it. So we make the invisible visible. We talk about that, which no one talks about.”

“But why? What difference does this make?” asks the Seeker, as they slowly approach the end of the clearing, where the dark pine forest begins.

The Stranger grins.

“When your awareness shifts, your course changes as well.”

“I still don't quite get what you are saying...,” admits the Seeker.

“By looking at Love... by realizing its nature, we let Love flow through us. By seeing the Ego... by getting an insight into it's mechanisms... By realizing how it shapes our actions... We take away it's power. Can you see how powerful awareness truly is?”

“Okay... So that is what it is all about... But still... You are just telling me weird stories... I mean... Do you seriously think... That this will have any effect? No one will understand...”

The Stranger smiles. “It's enough, if YOU understand.”

The Seeker thinks for a moment, then they nod their hand. The Seeker and the Stranger both enter into the dark forest. The trees are covering the blue sky. The light is dim. There is no path. The ground is covered with moss, grass, dirt, fallen leafs, twigs, plants and bushes.

The Seeker looks at everything. At the trees, the plants, the ground, the insects, the butterflies. They listen to the birds, to the rustling of the wind, to the flowing stream.

“But what even is this here? Reality... Is this like a dream? Is this an illusion? It all feels so real...”

“Can't help it, I knew you'd ask it sooner or later... I don't think you will remember this anyway... So it's probably alright to break the fourth wall on this one...”

The mysterious stranger considers a thought, then they whisper into the Seekers ear:

“You are a character in a fictional story.”

A sudden strong gush of wind. The birds lift off from their trees. Crows screaming very loudly.

The Seeker turns around. “You mean that my identity is just a story I am telling my self?”

“No,” denies the Stranger. “You are a fictional character. Nothing here is real.”

“Okay I think I understand now,” says the Seeker. “You mean that metaphorically!”

“No...,” sighs the Stranger. “I mean it literally. You are not real.”

The Seeker scratches their forehead.

“Do you mean, that 'I' am not real... Because the Self is just an illusion?”

The Stranger takes a stick and paints a circle on the ground. With the stick, the Stranger points at the circle.

“So this circle is our universe. Everything is contained within this circle. This is where our story is taking place.”

Then the Stranger points outside the circle. “This is where the reader is.”

“Who is the reader?,” asks the Seeker curiously. “Is that god?”

“No,” responds the mysterious stranger with a playful grin. “Although sometimes they are asking themselves the same question.”

The Stranger waits for the Seekers reaction, but they scratch their head. The Stranger continues:

“You could call the reader your 'Higher Self'. The Reader exists outside this universe. Outside your story.”

The Seeker gives the Stranger their full attention. “That's interesting. What is this higher Self?”

The Stranger holds his Stick into the sun. Sunlight projects the sticks shadow on the ground.

“It's like when you hold a three-dimensional Object in the Sun, then it casts a Two-Dimensional shadow. You, are a simplified representation of your higher Self. Just like a 2-D shadow is a reflection of a 3-D object, you are the reflection of your higher Self. The one, who reads your story.”

The Seeker takes a stick and draws an even bigger circle around the one, that the Stranger drew.

“So... If I have a higher Self here in my universe... Does this Reader have a higher Self in their universe as well?”

“Yes,” confirms the Stranger and points outside of the outer circle.

“Outside the story of the Reader, there is a Higher Self as well. And the Reader is also just an representation of their own Higher Self. The higher Self is the one, who reads the Readers story. It has many names but no name could ever describe it. No word could ever catch it. The Reader's higher Self is beyond comprehension. Some call it 'Awareness' others would call it 'Consciousness'. This is the Readers higher Self. It's the one, that is aware of the words. It's the one, that Reads the meaning behind them. Anyway... We will discuss the topic of Consciousness another time... The only thing important right now is that you understand how this works. Even if you forget it again... Your subconscious will remember.”

“And is there anything beyond?” asks the Seeker curiously. “Are there like infinite levels of worlds above and beyond?”

“This is above my pay range... After we break the fifth we can discuss the higher realities in more detail.”

Suddenly the Seeker and the Stranger stop. There is an opening between the leafs. A big hole, through which bright light shines on a table with chairs. The table is covered with tablecloth. Silver and golden plates. Fine cutlery and goblets filled with wine. Lit candles. Steaming plates. Grilled Meat. Cooked rice. Baskets with exotic fruits. Freshly plucked. On the tables edge, a big pot with brown mushroom stew.

The Seeker stares at the scenery. Something feels wrong.

“Do you think it's okay to eat this?” asks the Seeker the Stranger. As they turn around, they see him stuffing his mouth with fruits, meat and vegetables.

There is an awkward silence between the two. The Seeker stares at the Stranger, as his chewing gets slower and slower. He maintains eye contact as he swallows, while grabbing the next chicken wing and slowly shoving it in his mouth.

“Are you not afraid, that the food may be poisoned? I mean this entire place here literally screams 'Danger'.”

The Stranger stops chewing. A sudden realization dawns on him.

“Oh damn... you might be right,” shouts the mysterious stranger as a Banana slips out of his hand. “I didn't even consider that.”

The mysterious stranger suddenly twitches with his eyes. He feels a pain in his stomach.

The Seeker shakes their head.

“Why the hell do you just eat some random food on a strange table in the middle of a dark forest?”

“I just couldn't restrain myself,” shouts the Stranger, as he crawls on the floor in pain.

“It looked too damn delicious.”

The Seeker rolls their eyes, as they take a closer look at the food as well. Something smells very delicious. A fragrance emanates from a pot with mushroom stew. The Seeker lifts the ladle from the stew. Their mouth fills up with water. Eyes full of desire stare at the soup, licking their lips.

The Seeker can't hold back any longer and devours the entire stew. Licking the pot clean. The Seeker feels a sudden calmness emerging from within them. They lie down in the grass and close their eyes. Geometric patterns. A warm feeling in their heart. Shivers flowing down their spine.

As the Seeker opens their eyes again, they look up above. Through the hole in the dense blanket of leafs. They can see the blue sky, the clouds and the sun. They feel the suns warmth radiating on their skin.

Suddenly the Seekers eyes are blown wide open, after going through the same conversation from a different angle. They understand it. Everything is clear now. Their mind is blown. They start laughing.

A door manifests itself out of thin air, right in front of the Seeker. They swallow their spit and reach for the handle. Sweaty palms. Their body starts vibrating.

But the Stranger intercepts. He grabs the Seekers wrist. The fire in his eyes is flaring up. His voice sounds particularly serious, as he calmly but firmly speaks:

“No. You are not yet ready.”

The Seeker pulls away from the Strangers grip and touches the door handle with their index finger. Suddenly everything around the Seeker starts shaking, as the door frame in front crumbles down. Even the air starts vibrating. The table breaks down. Cracks forming in the earth. The trees are falling.

Everything fades to black. The light fades, utter darkness. Memory lost, the cycle starts anew.

TO BE CONTINUED

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START JOURNEY HERE

[the-unseen1]

The root of suffering

WALKING THE PATH TOGETHER

Chapter 7: The root of suffering

“Why is life so painful?” asks the Seeker the Mysterious Stranger, as they both walk along their path together. Desert all around them. The clouds are dark and stormy. Up ahead, the Seeker spots a sandstone mountain in the distance.

“That's a good question,” responds the Stranger. “Who is it that suffers? Is it the body or is it the mind? When the body suffers, you go to a doctor, who fixes you up again. The doctor can tell you exactly, what the root of this physical suffering is. They understand the illness and know how to treat it.

But what about the suffering of the mind? What will you do, when it is your thoughts, that plague you? We have seen, what happens, when you climb the tower of desire. We have seen, what happens, when you can't let go of your attachments. And we have seen what happens, when you are consumed by fear. You create suffering. In yourself and within others. You create conflict and separation.”

“So what am I to do about this? How can I fix this?”

The wind howls. They are approaching the sandstone mountain. There is an old mine shaft, etched into the mountain.

“This is the wrong approach,” says the Stranger. “You see, before we are looking for solutions, it is pivotal to have a complete insight into the issue. When you try to change yourself with force, then it's just the same old game of the Ego dominating itself. When you try to get rid of suffering, you create resistance and that very act creates even more suffering.

So what we are trying to do is not fighting the shadow. We are not trying to suppress, to subdue or to dominate. Instead, we want to shine a light on it. We want to understand it completely. To observe it fully. To see it, without judgment, bias or preconceived idea.

You remember, what we discussed regarding the Ego, do you?”

“Yeah,” confirms the Seeker.

“You said that the brain works like a computer and the Ego is like malware in our programming, right?”

The Stranger raises his eyebrows.

“It's a metaphor... When unbalanced, then the Ego behaves like harmful software. After all, the Ego programming protects your physical survival. So it's not like it's completely useless. The issue is, that when it's unbalanced... That when it's in control of your life, then all of our issues begin. Then your natural desire corrupts. When driven by the ego, your desire will always be selfish and thus destructive, separating and creating conflict. When it's not controlled by the Ego-drive, then your desire is aligned with your true purpose.

Same goes for your fears. Isn't it the Ego, that corrupts your fears? By creating thoughts of being harmed? By creating new attachments? Isn't the Ego the root of attachment? After all, there needs to be an identity, a self-image, which is attached to something.

What we are trying to point at, is that suffering itself... The psychological suffering of the mind... On a collective global scale, as well as on a individual level... Is a byproduct of the unbalanced Ego-drive, which controls our minds.”

The Stranger and the Seeker stop on their track. The path leads through the mind shaft, into the dark cavern. The mine is so dark, that they can't see anything up ahead. The Stranger picks up a dry wooden stick. She takes a deep breath, blowing on the top of the stick. It ignites with flames and turns it into a torch. She hands the torch to the Seeker.

New item Added:

Torch of enlightenment

Together, the Seeker and the Stranger enter into the cave. The direction leads downwards.

“Alright,” says the Seeker after some time.

“So you are saying, that the Ego, the Self... That it is the root of suffering. So all I need to do, is getting rid of it, right? How do I get rid of it?”

“Is it possible to get rid of the Ego permanently? Who knows... Perhaps yes, perhaps no. Perhaps one day we might find out. Like I said earlier, don't try to fight the Ego with force. Because then it's just the Ego fighting itself. Don't live in the illusion, that you are free of Ego either. The one insisting it is free of Ego, is ego itself. You see, how tricky it is?

Whether the Ego can be dissolved permanently or not... It can certainly be dissolved temporarily. Through love... True, unconditional Love. Because Love is, when the Self is not. When you are in a state of Love, then the Ego loses all power. The Ego can never come even close to the power of love, which dissolves all shadows.

Through awareness. Inwardly, when you are aware of the Ego acting, as it arises, then it stops. When you are catching yourself at thinking a selfish thought and are aware of it's consequences, then you will learn. After all, you won't touch the same flame twice.

Outwardly, when you are staring at something absolutely beautiful. When you gaze at a beautiful view, or at art... In that state, when no thought crosses your mind and you are just marveling at the beauty of existence, then you are one with everything. In that moment, there is no Ego, that corrupts the experience.”

The Seeker and the Stranger, move ever deeper into the dark, cold cave. They come across the remains of broken pickaxes, wooden posts and old rail tracks.

After some time, a question plagues the Seeker:

“How about suffering for the loss of someone beloved? I mean mourning for someone in your family is natural isn't it?”

“To Love is to accept,” responds the Stranger. “I know, this sounds hard, but when you are attached to someone, there is no love involved. The more you are attached, the harder it is to recover from that loss. Yes, it is natural to mourn. It is sad, that your beloved are gone. But you will need to let go. Otherwise, you can never move on and are stuck in a cycle of desperation.

When you love them, then you love their entire being. You love them throughout every step of their journey. From their birth until death. You accept, that whatever they have done and whatever happened to them, was part of their journey. And so is Death, also the natural end of every Humans journey.”

They move deeper into the cave system. Suddenly, the Seeker startles, as they hear a sound. Turning around with their torch, they seek it's source. Nothing there. The nervous Seeker and the Stranger move on.

The Seeker starts sweating more and more, as they have the unshakable feeling of being observed. Their torch sheds a light on human bones. Remains of mine workers. The Seeker swallows their spit and proceed walking downwards.

At some point, after several hours, the Seeker notices strange paintings on the cave walls. They illuminate the images with their torch. Unrecognizable symbols. Images depicting obscure entities. Twisted and strange. An unsettling feeling in the air. Goosebumps on the Seekers skin.

The Seeker and the Stranger suddenly stop, as the narrow cave leads to a closed stone door. It is etched, with ancient symbols and sigils. The Seeker tries to open the door, but it doesn't move an inch. After a couple of attempts, they give up.

The Stranger touches the stone door with his palm and whispers secret words. Suddenly there is a loud rumbling, as the earth begins to vibrate, dust falls from the ceiling and the door opens up. The Seeker feels a brush of fresh wind. The torch flares up.

As the two companions, step into the new chamber, the Seeker suddenly notices the sound of an unfamiliar song... It sounds threatening, bad-ass and epic.

“Am I hearing boss music?” asks the Seeker with shaking knees.

As the Seeker keeps their torch steady, it illuminates only a small part of the great hall. Out of the darkness, a shadow moves ever closer towards the light. Suddenly a gigantic scorpion with sharp scissors and a toxic sting appears.

The scorpion attacks with its sting. The Seeker can't dodge in time and takes in the full force of the sting striking them.

- 10 vibes lost

“What the hell,” shouts the Seeker. “10 Vibes, for just a single hit... Why is this creature so overpowered?!”

The Seeker surprises, as they hear the deep voice of the giant scorpion echoing through the hall:

“Finally, after millennia of waiting... I will get my revenge! You will pay, for what you have done to my family!”

The Seeker looks at the gigantic scorpion confused. They shine their torch on it. The Scorpion covers his eyes.

“Do I happen to know you?” asks the Seeker. Earnestly trying to figure out, whether they met before.

“Yes,” reveals the scorpion. “I am Lucas, son of Bruce!”

“Sorry doesn't ring a bell.”

“What... Seriously... You don't remember? You stepped on my dad and fell on my mom... ”

The Seeker shrugs ignorantly. The Stranger whistles suspiciously.

Lucas grunts. “Doesn't matter, if you remember or not... Because I do remember... All the lost cycles, all the suffering you have caused to me. I swore revenge and ran after you, but I got lost in this cave. After I ended up in this chamber, I regained my full memories of all cycles. I have been waiting here, so that I can finally enact revenge, as I have sworn to my late father. Millennia have passed, endless cycles... But I always knew, that one day... Hey! Are you even listening?!”

The Seeker was not listening. Lucas attacks with his scissor claws. The Seeker dodges. The scorpion goes for the legs. The Seeker jumps up, avoiding the sharp claw.

“What the hell is your problem?” shouts the Seeker annoyed.

“All my suffering. All the suffering, that you have caused to me. I want justice. I want vengeance.”

“I didn't do anything,” argues the Seeker. They feel unfairly treated.

The scorpion attacks with his sting. “To me... It doesn't matter, whether you did it in this run or in the previous ones! You reap what you sow. Face the consequences of your actions.”

The Seeker dodges the sting. Its stuck in the ground.

“You cry all about your suffering,” shouts the Seeker, as they dodge another claw attack. “What about my suffering, huh?! When you hit me with your sting earlier, you took half my life. Do you think, I don't know what suffering is? I have been suffering all my life. So stop crying!”

Lucas, the scorpion frees his tail from the ground and starts spraying venom. The Seeker dodges the toxic poison. It dissolves anything it hits, like acid.

“You don't know anything about my suffering! Your suffering is nothing compared to mine. And you are the only one left to blame! I will end you and free myself from Suffering.”

Again, the Scorpion throws his sting at the Seeker, who dodges once again.

“Enough already,” screams the Seeker in annoyance, as the sting is stuck again in the ground. “It is not YOUR suffering!”

Suddenly, as the Seeker speaks these words, they realize something. It feels, as if a great weight were lifted. Like a new light emerging.

“It's not YOUR suffering... And neither is it MINE. It's just suffering. It doesn't belong to you and me... It's something, all of us experience... And we are all in this together...”

The Stranger grins proudly at the Seekers realization.

“What the hell, are you talking about,” asks the scorpion confused.

The Seeker makes a step towards the Scorpion. “Now I am beginning to understand.”

“What are you doing,” asks the scorpion nervously, as he tries to use more and more force to lift his sting out of the ground.

“Get away from me,” screams the scorpion in fear.

The Seeker continues to step forward. The light of their torch illuminates the scorpions entire appearance. As the Seeker gets a closer look, the beast no longer looks as dangerous.

“If you come one inch closer, I will cut you in half with my claws!” screams the scorpion.

The Seeker makes a careful arm movement towards the tail stuck in the ground. Moving slowly and non-threateningly. The scorpion observes alerted, as the Seeker gives a hand to pull out the scorpions tail from the ground. As the Seeker stands right in front of the sting, the scorpion knows, that it could kill his enemy right away. But the scorpion remains calm.

The Seeker falls on their knees, with their eyes facing the floor, they speak loudly. “I apologize... Even though I can't remember... I understand, that I have caused you a lot of harm. Please... I sincerely ask for your forgiveness. Please... Whatever I have done to you in the past... Please forgive me.”

The scorpions grunts in anger. “Do you think, I am so foolish to suddenly fall for this? Yis this how you beg for mercy?”

As the scorpion looks into the Seekers eyes, for a short moment, he felt, as if the Seekers eyes were burning.

“No... I just realized... That this is not about being right or wrong... I have hurt you... I accept that now... It doesn't matter if on purpose or not, if directly or indirectly... I want to end it... This useless suffering... So again... I am asking for your forgiveness.”

“You seriously think, that after all the pain you have caused me... That I will just simply forgive you? No, only in death, you can pay for crimes.”

The Seeker takes a deep breath. Looking around them. Observing the cave. Taking a look at the mysterious stranger. Looking at Lucas, the scorpion. The Seeker makes up their mind.

“Alright,” speaks the Seeker with resolution in their voice. “I am ready to face the consequences of my actions. I won't run away. I won't make up any new excuses. If my death shall be the only thing to end OUR suffering, then do it.”

The Seeker points at their chest. Spreading out their hands. Ready to be stung by the scorpion.

The scorpion is completely blown away. He would have never expected this in a thousand years. Suddenly the Scorpions bursts out in laughter. Like a balloon, losing air, the scorpions shrinks the more it laughs. Until Lucas has the size of a regular scorpion again.

He wipes away his tears and faces the Seeker:

“Seriously, I have never met anyone as utterly stupid as you in my entire life... You would make a great contender for the Darwin awards. I mean... it's like you're just standing here with your arms spread, shouting 'Kill me Senpai'. That's like natural selection at it's finest.”

The Seeker frowns. Their lips tremble. They would have almost responded with a witty comeback... But the Seeker decides to keep their mouth shut.

“Anyway, I will no longer hunt you,” continues the scorpion. “I forgive you...”

As the scorpion speaks those words, a closed stone door in the great hall suddenly opens up. From behind the door, a faint light emerges.

The Seeker feels a new shift of energy

Level UP!

LVL 4: Maximum Vibes increased

25 vibes Total

+ New skill added: Humility

The Seeker and the Stranger enter through the newly opened door. They walk through a corridor, at the very end, they can see an opening from which daylight emerges. As they walk outside, they are blinded by the sun. Then they look around them. A clear blue sky. Mountain ranges in the distance. Fields of grass and flowers. Right in front of them is another archway of ancient stones. The next checkpoint.

“I must say, I am really proud of you,” says the Stranger to the Seeker.

“We have finally made it... Honestly... After all those attempts, I wasn't sure, if you would ever make it at all... I was sure you were gonna fail again... But you far exceeded my expectations. You have basically made a perfect run... Without losing your way, without becoming attached... You didn't even step on a single scorpion...”

CRUNCH

The Stranger closes his eyes and takes a deep breath, as he feels something below the sole of her shoe.

“I should not have have said this,” mumbles the Stranger, as he facepalms...

“I should not have said that... How could I be so careless...? This was clearly ego speaking...”

The Stranger looks at the sole of his shoe. The remains of Lucas stick to it. He turns his head towards the Seeker.

“As I had thought... I am sorry to say this... But we will need to do this entire run all over again...”

The Seeker stares at the Stranger confused.

“What the hell do you mean by doing over...?”

Suddenly the Seeker feels a pain in their leg. The venomous sting of a small scorpion.

“You monster,” shouts a female scorpion from the ground. “You guys have killed our brother Lucas. Me and my brother Lachlan have been waiting here for a long time, until the cave opened again... And then after he is finally free, the two of you just come and crush him.”

As the Seeker loses consciousness, with the third checkpoint only mere steps away, they hear the words of the mysterious stranger speaking:

“I am really sorry, Seeker... This one goes entirely on me... The Ego is really a very tricky thing... And both of us, you and me, we still need to grow a lot... At least you will forget everything... I however will need to go through this hole ordeal again...”

To the Seeker everything fades to black. The light fades, utter darkness. The Memory lost, the cycle starts anew.

TO BE CONTINUED

PREVIOUS:

NEXT:

START JOURNEY HERE:

[the-unseen1]

To face your fears, you must understand them

WALKING THE PATH TOGETHER

Chapter 6: To face your fears, you must understand them

The Golden Mask Seeker runs. Without a destination, just running through an unknown land. The distance to the black tower is growing ever larger and larger. Until it's just a small point in the background. The Seeker runs through desert land, gazing at the dark clouds above. Where the Seeker runs, there is no path, no vegetation. Only sand and dust. After hours and hours of running, the Seeker gets exhausted. Tired, they let themselves fall on the desert floor.

They look around them. Something is off. The clouds above aren't moving. As still, as mountains. Even the wind is silent. As the Seeker becomes aware of their surroundings, they realize, that the desert floor is completely flat. No hills, no pits, not even sand dunes. The entire desert is completely even, flat plains of sand all around them.

The Seeker can't tell, from which direction they came. Wherever they look, it's all the same. A sudden feeling of loneliness. Fear is creeping up into the Seekers consciousness.

“Hello,” shouts the Seeker into the stillness of the odd desert. The words echo back. “Is anyone here?”

No reply, only Echo. The Seeker loses track of time. Nothing happens around them. They notice their thoughts repeating, like a scratched record.

“Hello, can anyone hear me,” they scream even louder. No response. Just the echo in between the silence.

The Seeker walks around in circles. Repeating the same cries for help over and over again. Only Echo. They scratch their head, walk around, cry for help, then they scratch their head again. Repeating the same pattern over and over.

After suddenly... the Seeker takes a deep breath. “Stranger! Are you still there?”

Caught by surprise, the Seeker gets startled from behind, as they feel a tap on their shoulder.

“You called?” asks the calm voice of the Mysterious Stranger.

“Where the hell have you been?! Do you have any idea how long I have been stuck here?!”

“You ran away,” reminds the Stranger calmly, as he observes the confusing environment around him. “We really are far off the path...”

“Is there a way back?” questions the Seeker frightened and hopeful at once.

The Stranger chuckles. “There always is a Way. No matter how far you have striven off, you can always get back on track. But I am being honest with you... The further you go, the harder it is to find your way again... This won't be easy...”

“Please,” begs the Seeker. “Help me. I can't bear being here any longer, in this lonely place...”

The mysterious stranger nods his head, asking: “How did you end up here?” He starts walking, the Seeker follows.

“I was running away.”

“What are you running away from,” questions the mysterious stranger.

The Seeker takes a moment to contemplate. “Consequences... I was running away from the consequences of my actions.”

“Why are you avoiding these consequences?”

“Because... I am afraid...”

“Afraid of what?”

The Seeker swallows their spit. “I am afraid... of being hurt.”

“That's it!” confirms the mysterious stranger with a slight smirk.

“This is the root of fear. The avoidance of pain. Now... Let's ask a different question: Who is it, that is afraid? Who is it, that avoids pain? Who is it, that runs away from consequences?”

The Seeker looks slightly confused. “Ummm... Me? The Seeker?”

For a short moment, there is an awkward eye contact between the Seeker and the mysterious stranger, as they stand still in the flat, quiet desert.

The mysterious stranger continues walking, the Seeker walks beside him.

“Let us try to have an insight into the very nature of fear itself. What is fear?”

“A physical response to danger,” answers the Seeker calmly. “Symptoms are sweating, trembling, rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath...”

“Of course, this is fear as a natural instinct. A safety-mechanism, warning us from danger. Like when a hunter encounters a predatory animal. Or when you walk on a fragile ice sheet over a frozen lake. It's absolutely natural. Any animal knows instinctual fear. However are there any other kinds of fears? Fears, that are not based on our survival instincts.”

The Seeker thinks for a moment. “You mean like phobias?”

“Yes,” confirms the mysterious stranger.

“Fears, that are psychological in nature. Fears, that are the product of thought instead of instincts. You see the difference? One is natural, beneficial for our survival and to a certain degree even healthy. The other though... the psychological fears... Are they beneficial in any way? Are they natural or healthy? Is it rational for your thoughts to be filled with irrational fears? Or are they just challenges, that need to be overcome?

Do you see how fear starts out in your thoughts? Do you see, how it creates suffering? Not only for you, but for everyone around you as well... Sometimes fear is instilled through education or upbringing. Irrational fears of other peoples, races, cultures, ideologies, religions have separated us. This has caused so much pain and suffering in this world. Do you see, how this kind of fear is the cause of so many problems on the individual and on the collective level?”

The Seeker nods. “I think... I understand. So what should we do about it?”

“Let us find out the root behind these psychological fears. We need to understand it's very nature, otherwise nothing will ever change. Some of these fears are caused by experience. By memory to be precise. For example when dogmatic knowledge is instilled. Or when you have a painful experience, that shapes the way you react.

And then there are fears of losing something. Like the fear that something, which you have made a part if your identity, is being taken from you. This could be material possessions. This could be a role you are playing or a status you have earned. This could be an idea, that you identify with. This could be even other people, like close friends or family. What is the root of these fears?”

The Seeker intuitively touches the golden mask stuck on their face. They swallow their spit, hoping that the mysterious stranger doesn't say the words, they fear most.

“The root of the fear of losing something is attachment,” continues the mysterious stranger. “When you are afraid of losing your possession, identity, status, or relationship, then it's because you are attached to it. Even the fear of death is just an attachment to memories.”

“I won't let go of my mask,” shouts the Seeker enraged. “I have earned it. I deserve it! It is mine!”

The Stranger sighs tiredly. He knew, that this was going to happen.

“Okay look... I know it is difficult... But as long, as you are attached to that mask, you will continue being lost. It will only get worse and worse.”

“No,” insists the Seeker. “I have poured in too much effort. Do you even understand this masks value? Many have tried climbing the tower of desire and only I have succeeded in getting it! It is mine! Mine only!”

The Mysterious Stranger looks at the Seeker with sad eyes.

“You think you need it. You think without it you are nobody. You think that your attachment bestows you with meaning. You think, you can't handle the world without it. But you are wrong. You don't need this mask, this false identity. You never needed it in the first place. Take it off and see it for yourself. This freedom of letting go. This liberation, will be like a great weight lifted off. And then we will find our way again.”

The Stranger stretches out his hand, offering it to the Seeker. For a moment the Seeker considers taking off their mask. They feel a call from deep within their heart.

The Seeker shakes their head, laughing manically. “Now I get it! You want my mask for yourself. All of this is just a trick. I will never hand it over to you!”

The Seeker throws a punch at the Stranger. The Stranger dodges.

“Please, stop it! I otherwise can't do anything to assist you anymore...”

“You damned hypocrite,” shouts the Seeker, as they pull the sword of perception from their sheath. “You want to take my mask from me! You are just like all the others!”

The Seeker runs towards the Stranger, swinging their sword, ready for an attack. The Stranger deflects the sword, with a brush of his hand.

“Sorry,” speaks the Stranger, as he slowly fades away. “I wish I could have done more for you... I will return with help... I promise. I won't leave you behind... You will not be forgotten.”

The Mysterious Stranger has vanished. The Seeker stands all alone in the desert. Where the clouds don't move and the Sun never sets. Crying, they collapse to their knees.

Time passes, as the Seeker wanders aimlessly through the flat desert. They blame the Stranger for their misery. Then they blame the unfairness of life for their circumstances. Then they blame the mask, trying to pull it off with force. Failing, blaming the Stranger once again. The Seeker walks in circles. Trapped in a Loop.

With every new repetition, something changes. Their veins around the mask swell up. The Seekers skin gets coarser, harder, thicker. Their voice gets rougher. The glow in their eyes extinguishes.

Stuck in an endless time loop, the Seeker loses their mind. Their rambling words turn into nonsensical sounds and screeches. The Seeker forgets, who they once used to be. The Seeker is gone, the mask has taken over. A desire for more is born. An endless hunger for attachment.

The Seekers body transforms. Horns and stings sprouts from its skin. Wings grow below the armpits. The monster with the golden mask flies around the area, searching for new attachments. Flying through the air, they escape the flat desert. Sometimes the monster spots people on the road, flies down below, catches its target with its claws and absorb them into its body. Sometimes it catches mice, scorpions and other creatures. With every new attachment the monster grows in size.

As the monster flies through the air, it spots the dark tower of desire. There the creature set down to rest and built a nest at the top. Time passed. Years. Decades. Centuries. Millennia. For many countless cycles, the monster roams mindlessly through the desert land around the tower of desire... Until one day, two figures appear near the dark tower.

“There must be some way up there,” says the Seeker to the Stranger, as the wind begins to howl.

“Are you really sure, that you want that mask?” asks the Stranger with a concerned voice.

“Yes,” confirms the Seeker, as they pull out their sword. “I will slay this monster, no matter the price.”

The Stranger sighs. “You really shouldn't listen to dubious rats...”

Suddenly, an attack from above. The monster with the golden mask flies directly towards the Seeker. The Seeker evades its sharp claws. The creature flies back to the top.

“Well,” says the Seeker, as they take a deep breath and pull out a rope from their pocket. “I think I made a good deal with this Rat. He traded me this rope against the Red Mask from the previous monster.”

The Seeker swings the Rope. High above, the Seeker catches a pylon and tightens the rope.

“Don't forget, what I told you,” reminds the Stranger the Seeker. “To face your fear, you must understand it!”

The Seeker nods and climbs the dark tower. The flying beast, attacks the Seeker, as it aims for the rope. But the Seeker won't let themselves be shaken off. They climb ever higher and higher. Utilizing the rope. Until they reach the nest at the top.

Up there, the Seeker is afraid of the height below. Keeping their eyes straight. The branches and twigs of the nest are not sturdy. Swallowing their spit, the Seeker moves a step forward, towards the terrible creature. Gazing into the golden mask hiding the face of the monster.

“I-I don't want to harm you,” says the Seeker with a calm voice, trying to hide their fear. “You don't want to harm me either, do you?”

The creature calms down.

“Listen,” continues the Seeker, as they grip the handle of their sword in the sheath. “I don't want to fight you. I am just here for that golden mask on your face... Just hand it over peacefully and we won't have any problems...”

The flying beast, angered by the Seeker, screeches. The wings lift off. The monster starts flying. The Seeker throws their rope, catching the monsters feet. Holding the rope tightly, the Seeker lets themselves be carried down below, as the monster is weighed down by the extra load.

The Seeker let's go of the rope, seconds before the monster crashes into the desert ground. As the cloud of dust vanishes, the Seeker stands up again and grabs the rope, lying on the ground once more. The monster wants to lift off, but the Seeker pulls the rope. The monster can't escape. The Seeker approaches slowly, with their sword shaking and their palms sweating.

“I must face my fears,” mumbles the Seeker, before they sprint towards it, attacking with their sword.

As the sword, touches the monsters skin, it absorbs it into their being.

- 2 vibes Lost

Sword of Perception destroyed

As their weapon is lost, the Seeker runs from the monster. But the monster sucks the Seeker towards it, like a magnet.

The monster throws itself at the Seeker, standing right above it, as the Seekers life force is slowly absorbed by the monster. They can feel the loss of vibes each second.

- 1 vibe lost

- 1 vibe lost

- 1 vibe lost

The Seeker cries in pain, as their energy gets drained. But just before the Monster absorbs the last remaining vibe, the Seeker stares directly into the eyes of the monster, that are hidden behind the golden mask. Their eyes make contact.

Suddenly the monster stops. As their stare looks directly into the eyes of the Seeker, the beast remembers. For a short moment, long forgotten memories of what it used to look like, behind the mask, pop up. The monster remembers, that it used to be a Seeker as well. The faint glowing in its eyes return.

A desire is born in the monster. To be free. To be liberated. To get rid of its attachment.

The Seeker sees it as well. Even though they don't fully understand, they know what to do. They grab the monsters golden mask at the edges and starts to pull.

The monster pulls it's face away into the opposite direction. The mask starts coming off. Slowly, it detaches from the skin. The Seeker and the monster both pull with as much force, as never before. Until the mask is finally lifted and the Seeker falls on the ground. Holding the golden mask in their hands.

As the Seeker stands up, they take a look at the monster. It has transformed. The wings are gone. The horns are gone. The former monster has the same appearance as the Seeker. Two identical Seekers staring in each others eyes.

The former monster takes a last look at the mysterious stranger. “Thank you... For keeping your promise.”

The two Seekers merge and become one. In the first few seconds the newly merged Seeker has two sets of different memories, before the oldest fade and only the newer memories remain.

Level UP!

Maximum Vibes increased

+ 20 vibes

1 x silver-spray-paint added

1 x golden mask added

The Seeker and the Stranger leave the dark tower behind and get back on their path. Continuing on their journey through the desert lands.

“It's whispering to me,” mumbles the Seeker, as they stare at their new item. “This golden mask... the one from the monster. What do you think... Should I wear it? Will it give me some extra buffs?”

“Please don't put it on... I know it's tough to resist that desire... But trust me... It ain't worth it.”

The Seeker looks again at the mask. There is an inscription on the inside: 'This mask adds the bonus of + 1 aesthetic point'

“Wait?! Just 1 aesthetic point?! This mask is absolutely useless... Why the hell did I even went through all that trouble?!” shouts the Seeker annoyed, as they throw the golden mask away.

TO BE CONTINUED

START JOURNEY HERE:

PREVIOUS PART:

NEXT PART:

[the-unseen1]

Walking the Path Together

Chapter 5: All along the Tower of desire

As the Seeker and the Stranger stand at the crossroads, they decide to take the right path. The further they progress, the more changes does the Seeker notice. The clouds get darker. The grassland turns into a Savannah. Trees turn into stumps. It's as if they enter into an uncanny valley.

With great interest, the Seeker examines the red mask in their hand.

“It's whispering to me,” mumbles the Seeker. “This strange mask... the one from the monster. What do you think... Should I wear it? Will it give me some extra buffs?”

“It's utterly useless... Just some unnecessary weight to carry around. Better drop the mask.”

“No I won't,” responds the infuriated Seeker, holding the mask tightly. “This is MY mask. I found it. I won it in battle. I won't just give it up!”

The Stranger backs down. “Alright, alright. It's up to you. Do with it what you want. I am not imposing anything on you. However, you should be aware of its danger. You see, it's easy to become attached. Attachment leads consequently to the fear of losing.

And once you have tasted attachment, you will soon desire more. Better, greater, more pleasurable attachments. We are using attachments to escape from our suffering. Unable to face our pain directly, we continue to hunt one shallow pleasure after the next. Always trying to fill a hole, that we can't escape from.

This is why I would advise you, not to become too attached to anything. Neither material possessions, nor relationships, nor status, nor success, nor identity, nor beliefs. Don't become attached to anything graspable or in-graspable. Because it will always, inadvertently lead to even greater suffering, than the pain you are trying to escape from. So before you put on the mask, ask yourself...”

As the Stranger turns his head, he notices, that the Seeker is already wearing the red mask on their face.

For a couple of seconds the mysterious stranger is frozen in disbelief, before he facepalms.

“I wanted to say... ask yourself, whether you are attached to it...”

The Seeker tries to pull off the red mask from their face. They can't. The mask is stuck. As if it were glued.

“Hey, you are right,” the Seeker realizes in terror. “It doesn't come off again!”

The Seeker struggles. Trying everything to take off the mask. After some time, they give up.

After some walking, the Seeker spots a dark tower in the distance. Standing in the desert, the monument reaches into the sky. It's as if dark stormy clouds are forming a vortex around the top of the black tower.

“How do I get rid of my attachments,” asks the Seeker the Stranger, as they start to feel an annoying itch behind the red mask.

“There is no fixed formula. Every attachment is unique to the person. There is no 'Do X and get rid of your attachment'. However the key is insight. Once you become aware, that you are attached to something, then you can actually do something about it. But you need to be absolutely honest with yourself.

We tend to tell ourselves, that we need it, that we can't live without it. And so we are unable to let go of it. Therefore we need to see, that the attachment is an obstacle, hindering our progress. The insight itself propels change. You become aware of being attached. You see the danger. You see the problems, that your attachment causes.

Then this awareness will bring forth the energy needed, to let go of the attachment. You will have access to an infinite intelligence, that helps you to break the pattern. To end the cycle in the best possible way, considering your unique circumstances. Doing this is effortless. Without any resistance. You don't need to fight your attachment. Just become aware of it.

It's like touching a hot oven and getting your hand burnt. You won't touch that oven ever again. And once you have let go of an attachment, you will come to the conclusion, that you never actually needed it in the first place.

At least, if that is what you really truly want. Nothing changes, unless you are not willing to look at it with full attention.”

The Stranger is suddenly interrupted by an unknown voice:

“Did I just hear attachment?”

It is an anthropomorphic rat with two tails. A merchant, with several items, laid out on a carpet. Behind the human-sized rat is a mobile cart full with objects. Tied to the cart, lies a resting donkey with a Moustache.

“Here you'll find the finest jewellery, goblets, armour, clothes, weapons and masks, that any adventurer may need, on their journey.”

The Seeker takes a good look at the inventory of the cart.

“Do you have anything that helps me to get rid of attachments,” they ask the dubious rat merchant.

“I have exactly, what you need,” the rat says, as he rustles through his garbage pile. The merchant shows the Seeker a spray can, that says 'Anti-Attachment spray'.

“With this spray, you get rid of any unwanted attachments. Be it material possessions, relationship, status, thoughts, beliefs... Even identity. The price would normally be 3 Vibes, but we have a Special offer. If you buy now, it will only cost you 2 vibes!”

The Seeker looks at the Spray can with an intrigued look on their face.

“Are you seriously thinking about buying this?” asks the Stranger with raised eyebrows.

“Well, seems easier, than what you suggested,” responds the Seeker. They hold up two fingers and face the rat. “I'll buy two cans.”

- 4 Vibes lost

The Seeker takes the can and sprays their mask. The red mask changes it's colour, turning from red to silver. As the liquid dries, the Seeker tries to shake off the mask. It is still stuck on their face.

“You damned rat tricked me! It still doesn't come off! Give me a refund!”

The rat makes a surprised face. “Oh Sir, by the heavens. Never in my life, would I even entertain the idea to trick someone as extraordinarily cunning, as your highness. This is all just a misunderstanding.”

The Seeker calms down, as the rat takes out a mirror from his pile and shows the Seeker their reflection.

“Can't you see? You are no longer attached, to that red mask of yours. Instead you are wearing a silver mask now. Only the most prestigious masters are wearing silver masks. What you have attained is very special. Only you can wear this mask!”

“You... You are telling me, that I am special?”

“Oh absolutely,” confirms the dubious rat. “Who else but you could ever deserve this wonderful mask? Truly only a highly advanced being as you, could carry such a treasure on their face. This mask not only fits you perfectly... It Uhhh... also boosts your resistance... against Ummm... Fall damage.”

The Seeker nods, happily thinking they struck a good deal. “Yes, I am indeed very advanced.”

New achievement unlocked:

Spiritual Ego

“You are still attached,” reminds the mysterious stranger standing in the background.

“Don't listen to him,” speaks the merchant rat. “After all, only a true Bodhisattva, such as you, can claim a silver mask. Unless he wears the golden mask, there shouldn't even be a reason to listen to this guy.”

“The golden mask?” asks the Seeker excited. “What is this? Where can I get it?”

The rat grins smugly. “Tell ya what. If you pay me another 4 vibes, I will tell you, where you'll find the golden mask. They say, that only someone truly enlightened, can wear the golden mask.”

The Stranger sighs. “Come on Seeker... Don't let yourself get involved in any unnecessary side quests... This won't end well...”

The Seeker ignores the Stranger and faces the rat: “Tell me where I'll find that mask.”

4 vibes Lost

The rat merchant points with his index finger at the dark tower in the distance.

“You need to climb up the tower of desire. There are no stairs. There is no ladder. You need to climb the outer wall, all the way up. Until you have reached the very top. Up there, floats the golden mask.”

The Seeker squints their eyes. They notice a faint glowing at the tip of the black tower in the distance.

“But be careful,” warns the rat, as they climb on the back of the donkey. “You are not the only one, aiming for the golden mask.”

On the back of his Donkey, the Rat rides into the Sunset.

“Are you really sure, you wanna do this?” asks the Stranger the Seeker.

“Yes,” says the Seeker. “I want the golden mask. No, I need the golden mask. Since I am enlightened, I need to wear it.”

“Fine,” sighs the Stranger. “It's your choice after all. But don't say later, that I didn't warn you.”

As the two companions are approaching the black tower, the wind begins to howl. Standing at the tower's foot, they marvel at the great heights.

“There must be some way up there,” says the Seeker to the Stranger. They both look upwards. The architecture looks confusing.

“I can't get no relief,” sighs the Seeker, unable to tell, where they should begin climbing.

The Seeker is greeted by an unknown voice: “Are you here for the golden mask as well?”

The Seeker turns their head. The voice comes from a gray mouse with round ears, wearing a business suit, with a glass of wine in his hand.

“Who are you?” asks the Seeker the Mouse.

“I am a business mouse. The best business mouse. This is why I am climbing the tower of desire. To be at the very top! I will be the richest. I will be the most powerful. And all this will be possible, once I have finally obtained the golden mask. The best golden mask.”

“You will never get this golden mask,” shouts another unfamiliar voice. It's a field mouse in a military outfit. “YI will reach the top before you do, western elite. Once I hold the golden mask in my hands, world domination will be mine!”

As the Seeker and the two mice begin their climb, the business mouse bites the leg of the Seeker.

“Ow,” screams the Seeker in pain, cursing the mouse. “Why the hell, did you do this?!”

“Don't take it personally,” says the business mouse, as he takes the opportunity for a head start. “We are rivals now. That's just how I deal with competitors.”

The military mouse bites the Seeker in their arm. “You should be glad, that I leave you just with a bite mark.”

The Seeker moves upwards at a fast pace, slowly catching up to the military mouse. The surface has many asymmetric edges and angles. As the military mouse looks down at the Seeker, he digs some dust and earth from the tower and throws it into the Seekers eyes.

The Seeker wipes the dirt from their eyes and proceeds. They want the golden mask. They want it, at all costs.

“None of them know what any of it is worth,” mumbles the Seeker, as they climb at an even faster pace. They are just an arm distance away from the military mouse. They grab his tail and pull at it. The mouse loses his grip.

“Damn you, western elite,” shouts the military mouse, as he falls down into the depth.

Up ahead, the Seeker looks at the business mouse, slowly catching up. The business mouse gets nervous, as they notice the Seeker approaching from behind.

“No reason to get excited,” says the business mouse as they throw loose bricks towards the Seeker. “I still have my Trump card.”

The Seeker avoids the falling bricks. Jumping hand over head from one gripping point to the next. As they move up the tower, the Seeker finally catches the business mouse in their hand and throws him down the tower.

“I just wanted to feel great again,” screams the business mouse, as he falls into the depth below.

Finally there is nothing left to stop the Seeker. They climb up the last few meters. But just in the moment, as they grab the golden mask, holding it in their hand, they slip with their feet at a loose brick. Balance lost. With the golden mask, tightly gripped in their hands, the Seeker falls down into the depths.

As they fall through the sky, the Seeker is prepared to die. They examine the golden mask in their hand. There is an inscription on the inside.

“This mask adds the bonus of + 1 aesthetic point,” the Seeker reads out loud, shortly before they crash on the ground.

Everything is black. But then... The Seeker opens their eyes and looks around. They are on the ground, at the foot of the tower.

“I am still alive? How is this possible, after falling from this height?”

“Must have been the fall damage resistance,” comments the Stranger, standing right next to the Seeker. “Was it all worth it?”

The Seeker breaths out relieved and puts on the golden mask over their silver mask. It merges with their face. “I did it! At last, the mask is mine! Now I truly am enligh...”

As the Seeker stands up, they notice some slimy substance on their back. Their train of thought is interrupted, as they hear a voice.

“Oh my God, mum?!”

Even though the Seeker can't remember why, the voice sounds familiar. It is Lukas, Chloe and Lachlan. The scorpion kids.

“We-We were just returning from our dad's funeral,” stutters Chloe, in utter terror. “Mom told us, that everything will be fine... That she will take care of us.”

“Where is mom gone,” asks Lachlan, unable to comprehend what is happening. “She was just standing here... Right before that person fell from the sky...”

The Seeker has a strange feeling of Deja-Vu, as they feel a loss in their vibration:

- 7 vibes lost

“Mother, I shall avenge you,” swears Lukas, with tearing eyes, as he holds the remains of his mother in his hands. “I will not rest until justice is served!”

As the Seeker observes the situation, they instinctively know, that there is only one thing left to do:

RUN!

The Seeker runs as fast, as they can. Leaving the mourning Scorpions behind.

The Stranger sighs annoyed, as they slowly follow the Seeker.

“Alright... Here we go again. Are we still at Cycle 894 or is it 895 already? It doesn't even matter... I really should stop counting.”

TO BE CONTINUED

START JOURNEY HERE:

PREVIOUS PART:

NEXT PART:

[the-unseen1]

WALKING THE PATH TOGETHER

Chapter 4: What is the Ego?

The Seeker and the Stranger are walking up sandstone stairs, etched into the stone face of the canyon. At the very end, the Seeker spots an enigmatic archway made of ancient sand stone, inscribed with cryptic runes. As the companions reach the end of the stairs, they cross the archway.

Suddenly, the Seeker hears a heavenly chant appearing from nowhere:

Checkpoint II saved

“Three-Hundred-Seventy-Eight,” mumbles the Stranger silently.

As they pass through the archway, the road in front of them, splits in two directions. One path leading left, the other leading right.

“Which path should we take,” the Seeker asks the Stranger. “Left or right?”

“Doesn't really make any difference,” yawns the Stranger. “We will end up, exactly where we are supposed to, anyway. Just try to remember this time, will ya? It's starting to get repetitive.”

The Seeker looks at both possible paths with discernment. First they look to the left, then to the right, then back to the left.

“Let's take the left path,” the Seeker decides, after some contemplation.

And thus, the Stranger and the Seeker take the left path. They silently walk on the gravel road, surrounded by fields of grass and flowers. A small creek is flowing next to the path. Every now and then, they spot small, solitary trees standing in the grass.

“Since we crossed that gate, you've been awfully silent,” notices the Seeker after some time of travelling. “Is anything up with you?”

The Stranger sighs, massaging his temples. “Do I really do need to repeat everything again?”

He takes a deep breath. “Alright... Let us discuss the Ego. You still remember when I told you, that love is, when the self is not?”

The Seeker shrugs their shoulders. “Nah, doesn't ring a bell...”

“Alright,” sighs the tired Stranger. “Seems, like I really do need to do this all over again... Understanding and revealing the ego is a very difficult task... Believe me, I have tried multiple times... This will take us some time. The best way, to show it, is through examples. However... Let me try something different this time...”

As they proceed to walk on their path, strange rock formations appear in the high grass, in front of them. They seem man-made. Several of these rocks are put together, to form a concentric structure.

“Let me use for the sake of simplicity a metaphor, so that we can conceptualize the Ego. Before you say anything... I am fully aware of the dangers of creating concepts and ideas. However, due to the limitations of language, I think it would be a starting point for any true Seeker to start with an idea, before we can later on dissolve it. So please, don't turn, what I am about to say, into absolute truth. Don't make it a dogma, ideology or turn it into a new pattern of thought. Don't become attached to a metaphor. Use it only as a starting point. Is that clear?”

The Seeker nods.

The Mysterious Stranger takes a deep breath. “I assume, that you most probably possess a computer, or a mobile phone, don't you?”

The Seeker stares at the Stranger confused. “A comp-What? Mobile phone? What is this?”

The Stranger sighs:

“I will unfortunately need to break the fourth wall on this one. Please bear with me... So you, the one who is reading this... I am talking to you directly.

Through the computer, the hardware, you access the software. The software is programmed to fulfill specific tasks and to utilize applications. You can use the software to browse the internet. You can use it to play games, write a novel, create excel files. The computer, the hardware is functioning like a brain.

Now let's look at how human brains work. Through the brain, the hardware, we can access thought. Thought is programmed to fulfil specific tasks and utilize the physical body. Your habits are like computer programs, running through your thoughts. Your ideas and your beliefs are like computer programs, determining your behaviour and your words. As you navigate through the physical world, by listening to your thoughts, the same 'programs', that run through your mind, therefore also affect the outside world.

That means, if you believe in an ideology, then you will also behave accordingly. You see, how the inner affects the outer? For example a religious person builds a temple or church and thus affects the outside world. Or a political activist takes part in a demonstration, affecting the outside as well. The programs in our mind, shape the world as much, as they shape us.

Often these 'programs' or ideas, were indoctrinated, by our environment or we formed them ourselves, as we grew up. The basis of every mental 'program' is knowledge or rather memory.

For example, you learn as a small child, that you will be punished, when you steal from others. So your mind creates a program that tells you to respect others property. Then there are programs, like traditions, beliefs and rituals, that we were thought in church or at school. Such dogmatic thought patterns are often placed with pressure into the individual.”

As the Stranger and the Seeker walk their path, the trees around them grow larger and increase in density.

Annoyed, the Seeker shakes their head. “So you are telling me, that I am just like some machine...? Without any free will? I am just some program running?”

The Stranger grins. “No my friend, you are so much more than just your limited brain. What you actually are can never be ever fully grasped or expressed in words. But we'll discuss this to some greater extent later on. Now, let us first understand what the Ego is.

The Ego is the mental image, that we have of ourselves. It is a complex structure of thought, based on our memories. The Ego is our own inherent mechanism of self-protection. The Ego is the origin of our fears and of our desires. The Ego is illusory in nature, it separates the self from the rest of infinity. The Ego is our limitation. It is not physical but mental in nature. The Ego is identity. The Ego is attachment. The Ego is the story we tell ourselves, about who we think we are. The Ego is the centre of the self. The main driving force of our behaviour, of our thoughts and of our words.

Now, before we start condemning the Ego, it surely has it's place in our mind-body-spirit-complex. It doesn't exist without a reason. After all, if it weren't for the Ego, society as we know it, could not exist. However, throughout the centuries something has happened. At some point, we became more and more attached to it.

The Ego has gotten way too strong. The Ego is a program in our minds, that has gotten out of control! It's like malware. Today almost every culture, every nation, every human being is infested with the Ego drive, which is running wild. We have no control over it, instead it controls us. It has corrupted every system, every structure, every organization.

The Ego is the root of our selfishness. And our selfishness is destroying the world. Look at the pollution, that is hurting the earth. This is the work of Ego. Look at the countless wars, that we have fought throughout the centuries and are currently still fighting. This is Ego!

The Ego has built a system, that rewards selfishness. The Ego has built a system, that separates us, generates conflict and suffering. Poverty, wars, pollution, corruption... this is all a product of the reign of Ego. But... Nevertheless... There is a way... Even though, the Ego has had such a tight grip on Humanity for so long... It is not too late to change. We will...”

Suddenly the mysterious stranger and the Seeker stop in the middle of their walk. Right in front of them the path ends. A raging river is cutting through the path.

As the Seeker stares at the tumultuous stream, their face shifts into disappointment.

“Seems like there is no way over the river, after all...”

The Mysterious Stranger smirks. “There always is a way. It only depends, if you are willing to find and walk the path. So this is your choice now. Are you ready to cross the river, or should we go back to the checkpoint and try to walk the right path?”

The Seeker considers both options. They scratch their head and caress their chin. After some time, they take a deep breath. “If there is a way over the river, then let us find it,” they speak with a confident voice.

The attention of the Stranger shifts towards a bush, near the water. From the scrub, the Stranger pulls out a wooden boat with paddles in an almost perfect condition.

“Well, well, well... Look at this... A boat appears, just as we need it.”

The Mysterious Stranger hops into the boat. “Alright, let's cross the river, before...”

Suddenly an unfamiliar voice interrupts him, screaming in an Australian accent: “Help me, please, please, help me.”

The Seeker looks around, but they can't find the source of the sound.

“Please... Take me with you! I need to cross the river. This is of utmost importance.”

The Seeker gets startled as they look at their feet. A small scorpion, carrying a bag behind it, crawls on the ground. The Seeker is just about to trample it, as they hear the voice of the mysterious stranger yelling:

“No, don't do it!”

With their foot still up in the air, the Seeker questions: “What? Why not?! It's a damned scorpion.”

“If you step on it, it will sting you!”

The Seeker sighs, as they put their leg down again.

“Oy thanks mate,” the scorpion speaks, with both their scissors closed, like praying hands.

“I knew, that you are a reasonable fella. So please... hear me out... I had hoped that you might take me with you. I really need to cross this river. It's a life-or-death situation.”

The Seeker turns their head towards the mysterious stranger. “What do you think about this? I don't trust Australian scorpions.”

The Stranger shrugs. “The decision is yours.”

The Seeker turns back towards the scorpion.

“I am afraid, no. You need to find yourself a different boat.”

The scorpion sighs disappointed. “No worries, mate... I understand you... Most mammals distrust scorpions... I just hope, that lil' Lachlan will not starve to death, before I found another way, around the river. Nevertheless, farewell my friend. I wish you good luck on your journey.”

The scorpion changes directions, dragging the bag behind it, leaves the scene.

Suddenly the Seeker feels very uncomfortable as a dooming chant appears from heaven:

- 10 vibes lost

“What,” the Seeker questions annoyed. “Why did I now lose points? I don't get it... I am just being careful?!”

“No,” calls out the mysterious stranger. “You are not careful, you are biased. Bias, is a product of the Ego, trying to protect itself from potential danger. Bias is also rooted in ignorance, basing it on subjective memories and irrational fears. Face it: This is Ego.”

The Seeker sighs. They turn around and run after the scorpion.

“Alright... You can join us on the boat. But if you even think about stinging me, I will crush you.”

“Oy thanks mate,” the scorpion responds overly excited. “That's really kind of you. My wife Shazza will surely share some of our dinner with you guys. You'll love her Marmite Sandwiches”

Thus the Seeker, the Scorpion and the Stranger get into the boat and traverse the river.

As the scorpion enters the boat, the Seeker hears an uplifting melody from heaven singing:

+ 5 vibes added

The Seeker grunts, as they had hoped to get back into the earlier vibration level.

“My name is Bruce,” the scorpion introduces himself, trying to initiate some small talk. “What's your names?”

“I am the Seeker and this is... This Entity's name is... I actually don't even know.”

The Stranger caresses his chin:

“Just call me the Mysterious Stranger... This shall do for now... I'll tell you my actual name, once we open the Book of Humanity... Until then, let's keep it at that... Anyway, Bruce, what makes you actually cross the river?”

“I went out, to fetch some food for my family,” explains Bruce, the scorpion. “My wife Shazza and our three kids, Lucas, Chloe and lil' Lachlan have been starving for weeks. It took me quite some time, to actually get some food, because we have this code...”

As Bruce the scorpion goes on, elaborating on his family life and their customs, the Seeker loses himself in his thought:

'This scorpion will kill me,' thinks the Seeker silently. 'I know it for sure. Any moment, this vermin will just use it's sting to attack me with it's venom. And then he will rob me... Or he will pierce a hole into the boat... I can see it in his eyes... in his evil eyes... He is out there to get me... I need to step on the scorpion. I need to crush it, before it hurts me. It's a threat! It's dangerous! I need to do it! NOW!'

As the Seeker stands up, the mysterious stranger grabs them by their forearm.

“Don't do it.”

The Seeker swallows their spit, takes a deep breath and sits back down again. Keeping silent for the rest of the river crossing. The boat has reached the other side. As the Seeker leaves the boat and steps onto the river bank, the Seeker hears again the uplifting melody, as if rewarded for making the right choice:

+ 2 vibes added

As Bruce carries his bag out of the boat, it suddenly rips at the end. From the bag, the corpse of a dead frog is slipping out.

The Seeker points his finger at the Scorpion frantically, as if proven right. Ready to crush Bruce with his feet.

“I knew it! You are that damned scorpion from the story. You are a killer! I knew it all along. We have helped a Killer to cross the river. We should have never trusted him! Take that, Stranger! I was right all along.”

Bruce, the scorpion, looks at the Seeker confused. “Did you not, listen to our conversation just now?”

“I am afraid, they didn't listen,” comments the Mysterious Stranger.

“As I said earlier,” repeats Bruce, while looking at the hovering foot ahead of him.

“I am a pacifist. Me and my family are practising a form of diet, where we only consume the meat of animals that have died from a natural cause. Such as, old age, illness or drowning. I went all the way into the land of the frogs, until I finally found a fresh corpse. My family hasn't eaten in weeks, since is so hard to find the right meat without hunting.”

The Seeker shakes their head and sets their foot back on the ground. “Alright... I guess, there's no way to prove you wrong... I'll just need to take your word on it.”

Again the Seeker hears the heavenly chant:

+ 2 vibes

“Thank you, for making the effort to understand me,” says Bruce, while winking goodbye. “Farewell my friends. If you're ever nearby, Shazza will fetch you the best marmite sandwich, that you have ever eaten.”

Thus, the Stranger and the Seeker continue on their journey.

“I really need to give it to you,” states the Stranger with a warm smile. “You have done well. You have not given in to your fear and ego, instead everything went peacefully. I am really proud of you...”

The Seeker begins to smile. “Ha, I guess you are right. I am really great.”

“No,” warns the Stranger. “Don't let this get over your head...”

“I am a very peaceful and collected person,” continues the Seeker. “I am really special. In fact, I'd say that I am better, than most people. I bet, they would have just stepped on that little scorpion. But not me, no. Someone as considerate, someone as tolerant as me, would never...”

CRUNCH

The Seeker suddenly realizes, that they stepped on something. Their face turns pale in horror, as they examine their shoe sole. Pieces of Bruce are stuck on their shoe.

Suddenly a female scorpion appears from a tiny puppet house:

“Bruce? Darling? Is that you? I thought I just heard your voice.”

It's Bruce wife, Shazza. She screams in panic, as she sees, how the Seeker scrapes off parts of her husband from his shoe with a stick.

“Aaaaahhhh! Oh my god?! What have you done to Bruce?”

The Seeker hears a terrifying chant from heaven, like music from a horror movie singing:

- 12 vibes lost

“It's not, what it looks like,” explains the Seeker. “It's an accident! I swear!”

Suddenly three little scorpions also come out of the puppet house.

“Mom, is it true what you just said? Is dad finally coming back,” asks Lukas the oldest son.

“Did he bring food with him? Does our starvation finally end,” asks Chloe the middle child.

“Yay, dad is finally back,” shouts Lachlan, the youngest one, full of excitement.

Lukas throws up, as he sees the remains of his father on the floor. Chloe loses consciousness and little Lachlan is frozen by shock. Deeply Traumatized by the event.

- 3 vibes lost

“You monster,” shouts Shazza towards the Seeker, whilst hugging her youngest. “How could you?! Bruce was the nicest scorpion you could find. He never ever harmed a single animal in his life. He traveled for days to find a frogs corpse, because he couldn't bear to kill one.”

“No really,” the Seeker tried to explain. “It didn't happen on purpose. It was an accident...”

“As long as I live, father,” swears Lukas, the oldest child, as he stands above the remains of Bruce. “By the heavens, I swear... I will avenge your death, father!”

Lukas attacks the Seeker with it's venomous sting. The Seeker feels pain, as everything around them gets darker and they hears the sound again:

- 2 vibes

Before the Seeker loses consciousness, they hear the words of the mysterious stranger:

“Listen Seeker... This is the price you pay for Ego. I really thought, that we will progress this time... But now we'll be back at checkpoint 2...”

The light fades, utter darkness. The Memory lost, the cycle starts anew.

“Three-Hundred-Seventy-Nine,” mumbles the Stranger silently, as they pass through the archway. The road in front of them, splits in two directions.

“Which path should we take,” the Seeker asks the Mysterious Stranger. “Left or right?”

“Here we go again,” yawns the Stranger. “You'll take the same way, as always...”

The Seeker looks at both possible paths with discernment. First they look to the right, then back to the left, then again to the right.

“Let's take the right path,” the Seeker decides, after some contemplation.

The mysterious stranger sighs. “See, that is exactly why... Wait a second... Did you just say the RIGHT path?”

“Yeah,” the Seeker affirms. “Let's take the RIGHT path.”

The Mysterious Stranger smiles in excitement. “Okay... Let's go for it. Let's take the right path.”

And thus, the Seeker and the Stranger, walk towards the path on the right, into the unknown. A path that seems rocky, hard and difficult. A path, that seems RIGHT.

TO BE CONTINUED

START JOURNEY HERE:

PREVIOUS PART:

NEXT PART:

[the-unseen1]

Behind the masks we are all the same

WALKING THE PATH TOGETHER

Chapter 3: Behind the masks we are all the same

As the Stranger and the Seeker continue on their path, the gravel road leads them through fields of grass and flowers. They are surrounded by vast mountain ranges in the distance. Out of the ground, remains of buried and broken colossal statues stand out. Fingers, broken torsos, partial heads, depicting ancient gods.

“We don't look at each other,” elaborates the Mysterious Stranger. “We mostly see people as the roles, that they play in our particular life. When we interact with someone, we rarely try to understand them, as they truly are. Because we automatically create a prefabricated image, of whoever it is, that we deal with. This image is based on the memory, that we have recorded regarding the person.

However... when we create such an image of another person, this image is always limited. The image is not an accurate representation of the actual human being. We only record and save memory of the times, that us and said person actually come into contact. We don't know, how the person behaves or what they do, when our particular timelines aren't crossing. As memories are incomplete, so is our image of the people in our life.

At the same time, people create images of you as well. Based on all memory, that they have gathered around you. They don't know what your life looks like, outside of your shared experiences. And so, the image that they have created around you is just as incomplete.

Have you ever been angry because you were not understood? Because you were placed in a limited box by them? Did you ever feel lonely, because you were not seen? Did you ever feel disconnected with the role, that people assign to you?”

Next to the gravel road, the statue of a warrior with a horned helmet is buried in the grass. The Mysterious Stranger suddenly notices, that the Seeker is far behind in the distance.

“Hold on,” shouts the Seeker, as they come running towards the Stranger. “You're too fast... Can you please slow down a bit?”

The Stranger waits until the Seeker catches up. He slows down his pace to match the Seeker.

“Let me put it differently then: It's as if we were wearing invisible glasses. As long as we look through the glasses, the image of other people is blurry. But once you take them off, you can truly see people as they are. Taking off the glasses, means that you look directly into their heart, instead of seeing them through the ideas, that you have built around them, running in the background.”

“I understand,” pants the Seeker, grasping for air. “It's like we are all wearing masks, isn't it? Like.. I am acting differently around my family, than I am around my workplace. I am playing different roles in different situations.”

The Stranger nods his head.

“Of course. All humans do this. That's how we fit into our social groups. By playing a role. A role, that fits the particular group dynamic. Be it the role of son or daughter, of mother of father, of brother or sister. At work or school or at the friends group... As the leader, as the joker, as the quiet one, as the empathetic one, as the loud one, as the weird one... What happens, when we play a role? Suddenly there is an expectation by the group. If you don't behave accordingly to the role, you are being ostracized.

What do these roles do with us? They make us unhappy, don't they? Because we can't be who we truly are. Because they limit us, they fragment us. Force us, to behave in certain ways, to imitate and to hide. And they make us blind. We think we are these roles. We believe we are these masks, that we carry. We believe the others are the image, that we have of them. And so we treat them accordingly. We put others under the same pressure, the same expectations, as we are placed under.

There is no love, as long as we are identified with our masks. There is no love, as long as we identify others with their limited roles. Because underneath the mask, we are all the same. Literally, we are all the same actor playing different roles.”

The Stranger looks to his side. Again the Seeker is gone. He turns his head around, the Seeker isn't behind him either.

“I am way ahead of you,” shouts the Seeker from the distance. Far up ahead, in front of the Stranger, they sit next to a partially-buried giant sword. The sword is made of shining metal, that withstood the test of time. Without even a glimmer of rust on it.

The Seeker pulls out the sword from the ground. The sword starts glowing like a bright light, as the Seeker touches it.

New item added: Sword of Perception

“Then let us ask, how do we let go of the masks?” the mysterious stranger asks, as he marches forward. The Seeker follows, dragging the heavy sword behind them.

“How do we let go of these masks, that bring so much pain, suffering and unhappiness? There is no joy, in suppressing yourself to fit into a role. There is no love, when you don't actually see the person standing in front of you, for who they actually are.

So we need to be aware. Aware, that every other person, just like you, is the main character of their own story. Just like you, they know what it means to suffer. Just like you, they are afraid and insecure. Just like you, they have dreams, regrets and passions.

There is always a motive behind every action. Even if they hurt you. There is always a reason, always an intention. Even if you don't like it. If you understand this from the bottom of your heart, then you won't judge others. You accept them just as they are. Because you see them. And because you truly love them. Because they are you. Just a reflection of yourself, as much as you are a reflection of them.

Always see the good in people and you will find the goodness within them. Always see, that they are worthy of love. No matter how many mistakes they have made. In the end, they are just like you. Always have the intent to understand them. Try to see things from their perspective. And love will flower naturally.

Even if you know all of this already... When you interact with other people, it's easy to get sucked back into reaction mode. And suddenly you don't see them any more. You only see their role. You only see the emotion, they cause you to feel. Then your love is gone. Stay in the present moment. See them with all your awareness, then you won't fall back. See them clearly and the mask will disappear.”

On the left side and on the right side of the gravel road are two giant statues, both guarding the path ahead. The statues depict warrior kings, with swords, royal garments and luxurious crowns. They are as tall, as large buildings.

“Why should I make the effort,” questions the Seeker. “I mean seriously... Even if I try my best to understand others, they will never do the same thing for me.”

“Try it and see what happens,” proposes the Stranger. “I know, it's far easier to be on autopilot. On autopilot, you don't need to face your shortcomings. On autopilot, you are always right. On autopilot, you can remain the same forever.

But when you are aware, then love can flow through you. When you are attentive, you can break any cycle, that limits you. When you share love and understanding, then this love will spread. When you see the others perspective, then you grow exponentially. Become love itself, see how this love flowers. This is how you walk the highest path.

Because... in the end... Whoever it is... We are all one. If you hurt your brother, you actually hurt yourself. So see them... See them as they truly are. Without the illusory image... Without the false mask... And you will see yourself. See yourself within them... and love will be inevitable.”

As the two companions keep on moving, the path leads through a small corridor with rock faces on both sides. They enter a canyon.

Suddenly, as they walk through the threshold, the tone changes. Something in the atmosphere. The clouds turn dark-gray, getting denser.

An ominous sound! A bad-ass beat! Rhythms of Terror! Boss music!

From the top edge of the canyon suddenly something huge falls into the depths below and lands right in front of the Seeker. The ground shakes and trembles. Fog of dust keeps the shadowy figure hidden. As the fog clears up, a giant monster is visible. It's appearance is so horrifyingly shocking, that the Seeker can't even look at it. An eldritch monstrosity, with several limbs and a red mask covering it's face.

“Seems like it's time to face your first mini-boss,” speaks the Stranger, scratching his chin.

The Seeker points their heavy sword with a hard grip towards the dangerous creature.

“Are you kidding me?!” shouts the Seeker. “You expect me to face this... this thing on my own?!”

“You are ready,” grins the mysterious stranger. “I believe in you.”

His words, give the Seeker a motivational boost. Inspired, they hear a chant from heaven singing:

+ 7 Vibes added

Full of energy, the Seeker takes their sword and sprints right towards the monster. They swing their sword, seconds before reaching the giant creature. But just as the Seeker is about to strike their glowing sword, they look directly at the monster. Terrified by it's horrific look, the Seeker freezes. The monster takes the opportunity and throws the Seeker towards the wall of the rock face.

- 3 Vibes Lost

“Ok... How about you tell me, how the mechanics work,” demands the Seeker, as they clear the dust from their shoulder.

“According to your frequency-level...,” replies Stranger. “You got three more hits left. Otherwise, we'll be back at checkpoint 1...”

“Should have told me sooner,” sighs the Seeker annoyed.

Again, the Seeker prepares themselves for another attack. They take a deep breath and approach the monster once again. As they come closer, the Seeker expects the monster to attack.

The monster strikes. The Seeker rolls away. Behind the monster's back, the Seeker stands up and pierces the sword into it's skin. The monster screams in agony. Suddenly the Seeker feels an immense pain in their chest as well.

- 3 Vibes lost

“What the hell?! Why did I lose points as well? How can I defeat the monster, if I can't touch it without hurting myself?”

“Don't forget, what we discussed,” reminds the Stranger the Seeker. “Remember, what we were talking about. Let the mask fall off.”

Finally the Seeker understands. They hesitantly walk towards the monster, that is still getting back on their feet. Slowly the Seeker closes the distance, step by step. Keeping their sword pointed towards the monster, for self defence. Their hands are shaking, their forehead is sweating. As the Seeker is in arms reach, they stretch out their sword, not in an attempt to strike the creature, but using his weapon to lift off the red mask from the face of the monster.

As the mask falls to the ground, a sudden bright light is blinding both the Seeker and the Stranger. When the light fades, the body and face of the monster suddenly transforms into a familiar appearance. The shape of the monster suddenly looks identical to that of the Seeker. Same face, same body, same clothes. Smiling at it's former adversary.

The Seekers clone explodes into white light, flowing into the body of the original, as if absorbing it.

A new chant appears from the sky, singing:

Level UP!

+ 15 Vibes

Red Mask added

The Stranger stretches out their hand towards the Seeker.

“Never forget this, my dear friend, behind the masks we are all the same.”

The Seeker accepts the Strangers hand and let's themselves be dragged on their feet.

“Alright, so where are we heading next?”

The Mysterious Stranger points at stone stairs, that is carved into the wall of the stone face. At the very end of the stairs, at the edge of the canyon, an archway can be see.

“Let's go the next checkpoint up ahead,” grins the Stranger.

TO BE CONTINUED

START JOURNEY HERE:

PREVIOUS PART:

NEXT PART:

[the-unseen1]

What is Love?

WALKING THE PATH TOGETHER

Chapter 2: What is Love?

“Baby don't hurt me,” responds the Seeker jokingly. As they continue on their forest path, up ahead they spot a wooden bridge, connecting both sides of a river.

Puzzled, the Stranger stares at the Seeker with a confused face.

“I would never hurt you,” he exclaims in shock.

“No...,” the Seeker tries to explain. “There was this song from the 90's... And it turned into a meme... And...”

The Mysterious Stranger stares at the Seeker confused.

The Seeker sighs: “You know what... Just forget about it...”

“Anyway,” utters the mysterious stranger, as the two companions cross the bridge. “Let us find out together, what Love actually is.”

“I think that is fairly simple...” states the Seeker. “Every child knows what love is. You can simply find it in the dictionary. I don't see any need to elaborate any further on this.”

They cross the bridge. The path ahead moves upwards on a hill.

The Stranger clears his throat:

“It's not that simple. If the nature of love were completely understood, we wouldn't need to hold this conversation. If love, true love, was grasped not only by the intellect, but also by the heart, we would have already long transcended our current era of darkness.

You see.. Throughout the centuries the meaning behind the word 'love' was corrupted. We have bent it, falsified it, turned it into something else. There are so many misconceptions, false ideas, of what love is. We have lost our love a long time ago.

Today, love is nothing more, than a 'cute', little necklace, people wear as a part of their identity. Or some romantic fantasy, they dream of, to feel good about themselves. They confuse love with identity, pleasure or attachment. They think their jealousy, their possessiveness, their fears and their sorrows are justified by love.

Then there are those, who are repulsed by the word 'love'. Because they are afraid to be weak. Because they are insecure about their own masculinity. Or because they are simply so consumed by hate, that the word itself frightens them. They are so blinded by their ego, by their mind, that they can't see, what's right next to them... Always been there, waiting for them to be seen.

Neither of these people have found love. It's not their fault. Love is nothing, that can be found easily. It costs tremendous effort, vigour and determination to find actual Love. I may assist you with inquiry, elaborations and poetry... But in the end, you will need to find it yourself... On the level of mind, heart and spirit. But if you truly set out to seek love, then you shall find it. Find it on the deepest and highest level of your being. Knock and you shall receive.”

“Alright,” the Seeker continues after some time of walking. “So you are telling me, that our understanding of love is wrong. Why does this even matter?”

The mysterious stranger grins. “Love will change the world, my friend. That's why we need to find it again. You see, Love is something that transcends all comprehension. Love is something, that is divine in nature. It is something so unfathomable great and wonderful, that you will never be able to grasp it. It is infinite. All-encompassing. It's connecting You to the rest of the world. It is your connection with the sacred. No word can ever fully describe it. No thought can ever understand it. To find out what love is, we must first understand, what love is not. We have muddled up it's meaning, with so many limited human ideas. Let us untangle it... Let me ask you, Seeker... Can love ever be conditional?”

“Yes,” responds the Seeker without hesitation. “Of course, love can be conditional. Almost any relationship operates that way. Take a marriage contract for example. Trust can be a condition for love. Financial security can be a condition for love. Beauty, sex appeal, effort, talent, personality... All that can be a condition for love.”

“If you make love conditional, it's no longer love. Then it's something else. Love knows no conditions, no boundaries, no limitations. You can't bargain love, you can't trade it off, it can't be negotiated.”

The Seeker shakes their head. “Now you are just mixing things up. There is unconditional love and there is regular love. There is a distinction.”

“I say, unconditional love is the only kind of love. If it's not unconditional, then it's simply not love. You may call love, but it's actually pleasure or attachment. If you only love, because you get something out of it, then it's the ego. Then it's selfishness. You can't expect something in return for love. Love is free. Love is boundless. Love is limitless. There can't be any dependency in love. Love can't be quantified. And it can never ever belong to anyone. It's neither yours, nor is it mine. Love just is.”

The Seeker scratches their head. “So you are saying, that most modern relationships are not based on love? You know, that this statement will offend many people, do you?”

The Stranger grins. “What is an act of love? Is an act of love ever selfish? Is jealousy love? Is anger love? Is fear love? Is pain love? Can any of these emotions grow from a soil of love?

No, they only grow from a soil of Ego. If there is any resentment, hidden or obvious, then it is not love. There is no motive in love, no hidden agenda. There is no expectation in love. If you are jealous, it's not love, it's insecurity. If you are angry, it's not love, it's a lack of understanding. If you are afraid, if you fear losing the love, then it's not love, it's attachment. If it hurts you, then it's not love either, it's attachment.”

The Seeker and the mysterious stranger have reached the foot of the hill. The path proceeds on flat ground. The Seeker notices ruins of ancient monuments. Pillars, statues, dream-like architecture. Both of them stop at a golden statue with wings, holding bow and arrow.

“You see Seeker... Love is, when the Self is not. It's as simple as that.”

The Seeker shakes their head. “Then what about self-love?”

“Do you love yourself, just as much, as you love any other human being? Do you love yourself as much, as you love the animals, the trees, the sky, the sun? Do you love yourself as much, as you love the world? If you give yourself the same unconditional love, that you give to anything else, then it's still love. Because there is no preference in love.

If you feel yourself to be more important than others, then it's just plain selfishness. If you just demand respect for yourself, but don't give the same amount of respect to others, it's not love.”

They continue walking on their path. Ruins of a marble temple, in an ancient Greek style, is overgrown with vines.

The Seeker begins laughing. “Now you are uttering nonsense again... As if, anyone were to accept this... You love your own family more, than you love strangers. You treat people differently based on societal norms. I won't give my colleague the same respect, as my boss. I won't love my friends as much as my children. That's just how humans are... That is how we work... That is how society functions... We need preference.”

“We are not asking, how we should behave,” reminds the Stranger the Seeker. “Neither are we proposing, to do anything. We are just asking what love is. And when we find the answer, it is up to you, whether you accept and go after it or not. I am saying, that love is unconditional. Love knows no preference. Love is beyond human conception. Love is infinite and limitless. Love is, when the Self is not. Love is everywhere and in everything.”

“How is love everywhere and in everything,” asks the Seeker confused.

The Mysterious Stranger stops in his track and points at an anthill. The Seeker stops as well. Countless ants carry an apple up the anthill.

“Can you see, how these ants work within a perfect self-sufficient system? In complete harmony and balance. Working together for the greatest good of their tribe. Do you see, that these ants have an inbuilt intelligence and care for each other? While also contributing to the rest of nature?”

The Seeker frowns. “Yeah... Well they are just some dumb ants... there's nothing special about that...”

The Stranger points at a bird in a nest, feeding worms to their children.

“Do you see, how the mother bird cares for her chicks? Can you see this inbuilt self-sufficient mechanism of the system of nature, the mother instinct to nurture, to fulfill every need? The small chicks will learn to fly some day. They will eat seeds and grains, fly off and spread them somewhere else, sustaining the system of nature. Maintaining the growth of plants and spreading them. How perfectly they have evolved... To play their part in nature in perfect harmony. To maintain balance. Nature is a system that sustains and maintains itself. How can all of this even exist, if it isn't through love?”

“Well that's just instincts,” the Seeker argues. “You are just romanticizing some natural processes, that can easily be explained by science.”

The two companions continue walking. The path makes up the edge of the elevated plateau, that they are on. From there, they have a perfect view on the entire valley below and the mountain ranges in the distance.

“When did you lose it,” the Mysterious Stranger sighs with a saddened face. “Your sense of wonder. Sure, anything can be logically explained. Because everything exits within the laws of logic and reason. But why should this take away the magic? We understand, how things work... Does that make it anyway less wonderful, less beautiful. Does it become less sacred, by being understood? If you still had that sense of wonder, that you had when you were a child... This endless joy... Then you could see it so clearly... You could see, that all of this is an expression of love.”

As the Stranger spreads out his hands, raising up his head towards the sky, a flock of birds is flying right behind him. The dusk is setting, the sun paints the sky and clouds in purple and orange colours.

“There is beauty in all things, my friend,” grins the Stranger joyfully. “You can find it everywhere. In the sky, in nature, in human beings... Even on the rainy days, when the sky is Grey, even then you can still find beauty within it. Even in darkest nights, the stars and the moon continue to shine their lights. This beauty in all things is an expression of love. The love of the infinite, of the eternal, expressed in the wonderful uniqueness of all things. It is here. It was always here. For you to see, clearly. Find it in the real world. It is there, waiting for you to be found.”

The Seeker has a strange feeling, as if the words of the Mysterious Stranger alone lifts up their mood. As if a flame lit up inside them.

“I- I don't know how to explain this,” the Seeker stutters confused. “Something strange just happened. Like a wave of positive energy rushing over me.”

The mysterious stranger grins. “You know, my dear friend. If you see things, as they are. If you see people, as they truly are. Without any bias. With a clear mind. With a complete understanding and absolute awareness. Then love is inevitable.”

For the first time, the Seeker gets truly curious.

“What do you mean by that?” they ask the Mysterious Stranger.

TO BE CONTINUED

PREVIOUS PART:

NEXT PART:

[the-unseen1]

The Scorpion and the Frog

WALKING THE PATH TOGETHER

Chapter 1: The Scorpion and the Frog

The Seeker and the mysterious stranger are walking on a forest path, leaving their bench behind. The wind blows through the trees. The birds sing joyfully. The sun shines brightly. Next to the gravel road flows a tumultuous river.

“Where are we going?” asks the Seeker the Mysterious Stranger.

The Stranger smirks. “It's not about the destination. We are on a Journey of Growth and of inner Transformation. This metaphorical Adventure is a reflection of the Inward Journey. And anyone who accepts the call can become part of it. Where will it lead us? We do not know. Will it be fun and worth your time? This I can promise to you. You won't regret following this Path.”

The Seeker and mysterious stranger continue walking the path in silence. Along the path, the Seeker spots the ruins of ancient architecture, overgrown with vines, as well as strange obelisks with ancient runes inscribed.

“Are you up for another joke?” asks the grinning Stranger the Seeker. “It's about a scorpion and a frog crossing a river. Wanna hear it?”

“Honestly... No, I really don't have the time for another one of your stories,” responds the Seeker dismissively.

“Once upon a time, in a land far away, a Scorpion set out on a journey to visit his old friend, a Serpent...”

“Did you even care to listen, to what I'm saying!?” interrupts the dumbfounded Seeker.

“...However the scorpion needed to cross a river, to arrive at the hill where the serpent lived,” the Mysterious Stranger continues undeterred.

“As the scorpion arrived at the riverbank, he met a frog, that was about to cross the water as well.

'Hey there fellow,' greeted the scorpion the frog. 'Seems like we both want to get to the other side... How about you take me up on your back, while you are at it?'

'Do you think, I'm stupid?' responded the frog. 'I know who you are. I know what you are. If I take you on my back, you will attack me with your sting.'

'Come on mate.... Think about it... If I were to sting you, while on your back, I would drown in the water as well.'

'Alright,' sighed the good-natured frog. 'I guess no one is so utterly stupid, to attack me at the risk of dying themselves.'

While the frog was swimming through the river, twice as hard as normally, the scorpion lost himself in silent thoughts.

'Should I sting him? No, I Should wait at least until we cross the river. But I want to sting him... I really, really want to sting him... No... I shouldn't sting him... Just wait a little longer... But his back... It just looks so stingable... Okay... You know what... I'll just do the stinging.'

The scorpion pierced the back of the frog with his venomous sting. The frog cried in pain. 'Why did you do this!? Now we are both going to die.'

'Welp,' said the scorpion, while the frog slowly sunk underwater. 'Couldn't help it. It's just my personality. There is nothing any of us could have done, to change the course of things. This is just who I am. Can't change fate. If you can't handle me at my stingiest, you don't deserve me at my...'

In his last moments, before the frog succumbed to the venom in his bloodstream, he saw something in the distance. 'Mother...'

The frog lost consciousness and sank into the depths of the river, together with the scorpion. However, after some time, the scorpion made it out of the water onto the other riverside. He was freezing, wet, heavily wounded, missing two legs and hardly alive, but he made it.

At long last, the soaking scorpion reached the hill top and finally arrived at the home of the snake.

'Scorpion, I am glad to see you again,' the snake greeted him welcome. 'How was you journey here.'

'Awful,' complained the scorpion in pain. 'It was wet and cold... I broke a couple of legs and I lost my lunch in the water.'

'What happened,' asked the snake curiously. 'Did your boat sink?'

The scorpion gazed bewildered. 'Wait a minute... there was a boat?!'”

After listening to the story, the Seeker smiles. Being caught off guard, they are exhaling some air through his nose.

“So what is the moral of this story? Is it about trusting the wrong people?”

“Tell me Seeker, do you see yourself as the scorpion or as the frog?”

The Seeker frowns. “It's easier to relate to the frog. It's just like... You can't trust anyone... Whenever you offer help, they take advantage of you or stab you in your back...”

The mysterious stranger chuckles. “You never caused anyone else to suffer? You never caused any misery onto the people you come across? No, it is only you, who is being attacked by others, isn't it? Stop playing the victim... See yourself...

You are the frog and the scorpion. You are the victim and the perpetrator. Because throughout your life, you have played both roles in different relationships. Perhaps unconscious. Not aware of the damage you caused. All humans, without exception, me, you, all of us, have played the role of the scorpion and of the frog at some point in our life.

Did you never notice, how the suffering you cause unto others, causes you to suffer as well? If you sink the ship you are standing on, you are drowning. What you do onto others, you do onto yourself. That's what the scorpion did. That is what all of us are doing. With every malicious word, thought and deed. Even a simple act of judging someone else in thought alone, is causing harm, is causing pain. Be it direct or indirect, be it conscious or unconscious.

And whenever you cause harm, this ripples back on to you. Ever heard the saying 'You reap what you sow'? Ever heard of Karma? The scorpion caused his own suffering. Yes, sometimes you are the victim, sometimes you are being taken advantage of, sometimes you are being hurt. You are perfectly aware of this. Are you also aware of the times, when you act as the role of perpetrator?

Now listen carefully, because this is what I am trying to tell you: There was a boat all the time. The scorpion could have avoided all of this, all along. All the needless pain he suffered, the unnecessary drowning of the frog... There was always a boat. Right There!

The same goes for you. Whenever you hurt someone... Whenever you thought, you needed to do this... Whenever you told yourself excuses, that you were just not strong enough, that this is just who you are... There was a boat for you... Ready all along, for you to cross the river. You don't need to harm anyone to make it to the other side. You don't need to drown, because there is a boat. You don't need to suffer, you don't need to make it so difficult for yourself. This boat is free for you to take. It's entire purpose is to be used by you as ferry. Peacefully, without the need for any conflict and resistance.”

The Seeker shakes their head.

“You only focused on the scorpion! What am I to do, when I find myself in the shoes of the frog?”

The Mysterious Stranger smirks.

“Helping someone in need, is never a bad thing. But if the frog really wanted to carry someone over the river, perhaps he should choose more wisely, whom it is that he carries. The scorpion had the intention, the means and the sting to harm the frog. You wouldn't allow someone with a gun on a plane, neither would you a allow a toxic scorpion on your back. Kindness is never wrong, but without proper wisdom, one is vulnerable to be taken advantage of.

Moreover, the boat was there for the frog to use, as well. He could have avoided the troublesome effort to swim, whilst carrying someone on his back and instead just used the boat as ferry. The boat is there for all of us, doesn't matter, which role we play in this great drama.”

The Seeker sighs, rolling their eyes.

“Alright... But even if the scorpion had taken the boat... This wouldn't have changed anything... The scorpion is still a scorpion. If he and the frog are together on the boat, he will still sting the frog. So stop giving me that bullshit. No matter how you try to justify it, the scorpion is dangerous. Just like criminals and terrorists are dangerous. I don't want to share a plane with them either.”

In the distance, they see the ruins of an ancient monument.

The mysterious stranger thoughtfully scratches his chin. “Ah yes... You see... a metaphor like this, fails to depict the complexity of a human being. Unlike scorpions, that act out of instinct, us humans base our decisions on countless factors.

Certainly, some people have a genetic disposition for violence or lack empathy due to mental illness. Or they adapted a negative set of behavioural patterns in their childhood. Or they are addicted to substance or obsessed with harmful habits. But never forget, whoever they are, they are just as complex as me and you. Just like your own mistakes and harmful personality traits can't be simplified by labeling them as evil, the same applies to all other humans as well. Just like me and you, they make excuses to justify their mistakes. Just like me and you, they try to see the fault in others.

And what I am trying to tell you, is that this boat is there for everyone. Doesn't matter who you are or what you have done in the past. The boat is that, which saves you. This boat is a state in which, no wrong action can take place. There can never be a perpetrator nor victim sitting in this boat. In there, the scorpion cannot sting and the frog cannot be stung.

When someone insults you and you are just about to insult back, then this boat is that, which stops you. When you are deluded by fear, when you think about striking first, before someone hurts you, then the boat is that, which you tells you 'No'. When you are envious and want to steal something that is not yours, the boat is the opportunity to change your course. Do you understand what the boat is supposed to be? Tell me seeker, what is the boat?”

The Seeker contemplates for a moment: “... A small vessel for traveling over water?”

“No,” smiles the Mysterious Stranger. “The boat is Love, my friend. No matter the situation, no matter the person, you can always choose to love. And it will always be the right choice. For the greatest good of all. Even if you don't see it, the boat is always there.”

“I disagree,” says the Seeker, shaking their head. “Love can also hurt people. Love isn't...”

Suddenly the Seeker and the mysterious stranger interrupt their walk. A strange, mystical gateway, made of ancient stones, stands in front of them. It almost looks magical.

“Ah,” the mysterious stranger exclaims. “Seems like we have reached our first checkpoint.”

As the Seeker and the mysterious stranger are passing through the mystic gateway, both hear a ominous chant, thundering from the sky, singing:

'Checkpoint I saved'

The Seeker feels a sudden rush of energy, as a new thought crosses their mind. They ponder the meaning behind the word 'love'. Could it be, that the mysterious stranger, has a different definition for the word 'love', than they do?

“Now, that we have passed the first gate,” speaks the Mysterious Stranger with a joyful face. “It is time to ask the question. What is love?”

TO BE CONTINUED

TUTORIAL:

NEXT PART:

[the-unseen1]

7. Fulfilling an old promise

The Seeker and the mysterious Stranger (Part 7of 7)

7. Fulfilling an old promise

“What are you talking about,” the Seeker asks confusedly. “What promise? I didn't promise anything to you.”

A flock of Thirty birds is flying through the sky, chirping a song of foreboding calmness. Their harmonious tune, like the prelude of a powerful symphony.

The mysterious stranger grins.

“Long, long time ago, there was a promise made. That after roaming around for centuries, being lost in the darkness, we will find a path. That we'll pave a way of love and light*.* That the old flame that has been burning in our eyes will be rekindled again. That the broken shall be pieced together, that the hidden shall be revealed, that the lost shall be found again.

A forgotten memory, hidden deep inside of you. Like a beautiful dream, which you can't remember. Like an itch in an unreachable area. Like the melody of a song you are trying to remember. You can't grasp it. You can't express it with words... But there's this knowing... Isn't there? Since your childhood you have been searching for it, haven't you?”

The orchestra of birds is singing their rising hymn in unison. Their song echoes through the forest, getting louder and louder, increasing in strength by each passing minute.

“You are talking nonsense,” the Seeker shouts nervously. “You don't know me. You don't know anything about me... So stop trying to get me confused!”

“Oh man,” the mysterious stranger sighs. “Did you really forget everything? Come on, remember what I told you, when we met in your dreams.”

The symphony of the birds is nearing its crescendo. The flock of birds spreads out, as each bird lands on a tree. Their rhythm, coming ever closer to its climax.

“Wha- In- In my Dreams?” the Seeker asks confused, shaking their head. “No... no this can't be. You are messing with me.”

The mysterious stranger breathes in deeply. Suddenly all birds fall silent, observing the two on the bench, as the mysterious stranger begins humming a tune. The chorus of the symphony of birds. A melody that sounds familiar to the seeker.

“We will meet again,” the mysterious stranger sings in the most beautiful melody.

As the stranger sings the promised words, all the birds join in the chorus. The song reaches its peak. The birds fly from their trees, forming another flock, dancing through the sky in joy, as their powerful hymn reaches the furthest corners of the forest.

Suddenly the Seeker feels this strange wave of energy moving in their spine.

“Stop it,” demands the Seeker, engulfed by fear. “Shut up!”

The stranger stops. Sudden silence. The quiet birds hide again within the trees.

After the Seeker calms down, the Stranger opens his mouth again:

“I fully respect, if you don't want to go any further. I understand, if this frightens you. I mean it is weird after all, isn't it? As if I were speaking to you directly... It's up to you. If you are not interested, then ignore this and just continue as usual.

However, there is a reason that we are holding this conversation. There is a reason that we are here right now... You, hearing my words spoken to you... Is there really nothing more to this? If you are not ready to embark on this journey, it would be better if you go now.”

The Seeker remains silent. They are thinking about, how they were occupying the bench first.

“Ah, so you are still here,” the mysterious stranger speaks joyfully after some time.

“I'm glad you have decided to stay. Someday you will understand the significance of this decision.”

“Well...,” the Seeker comments with a confused face. “This is my bench.”

Some of the birds start chirping again, as they remain hidden in the trees. Slowly, one bird, after another joins the song again.

“Anyway,” the stranger continues.

“You have heard it, haven't you? The great call. It might have reached you in your dreams, in your thoughts or in your feelings. I tell you this: You are not alone. Many have heard it... It resounded in our hearts, like a great wave of relief, of joy, of hope. Throughout the globe, many joined the orchestra of life. Adding their own unique voice to this amazing symphony.

I know that you have heard it. I know that you have felt it deep within. The dawn of something great. A new path has unfolded in front of us. Now we can walk together. We have made our choice. We have chosen love before selfishness, we have chosen light before darkness. Now it's up to each and everyone to do their part.

I know, the task seems impossible. I know that you are scared to stand up. You want to keep things as they are. You want to continue waiting here on this bench, all by yourself. You tell yourself, that this is normal, you tell yourself, that this is where you should be. This is what's expected of you. This is safe.

Stop telling yourself that you are content, if you aren't. Is this really what fulfills you? Ask yourself, if this is truly were you are supposed to be. Don't you know deep down, that there is more to life? Can't you hear this quiet voice, deep within your heart, calling for your name?”

The symphony of birds is rising again. Some leave their tree, flying freely through the open sky. Other birds are joining them, as the song of hope is rising once again.

The Seeker bursts into tears. “I can't... No, no, no... I am not ready to make this step... What will people think of me? What if it leads to pain? What if I fail? I am too afraid to do this all alone...”

The stranger suddenly stands up.

“There is no need to be afraid,” he speaks in a reassuring voice. “You don't need to walk this path alone. Because I will be with you. Let us walk together, side by side and find our way. Not as teacher and student, not as leader and follower, but as two old friends. As equals, with the common goal of reaching the top of the tallest mountain.”

The stranger points with his index finger at a mountain in the far distance, so high, that it melts with the blue sky.

“There, dear Seeker, at Axis Mundi, the two of us will find together what we have been searching for. We will end the everlasting seeking once and for all.”

The stranger stretches his hand towards the Seeker. The Seeker remains hesitant:

“I can't... no really, you expect too much from me. I mean... I don't even know you... Why should I trust you... How can I know for certain that you won't abuse my trust... my goodwill...”

“We are all in this together, my old friend,” the stranger says with a big grin on his face. “If you may allow me... I would like to share something with you.”

“Go ahead,” says the Seeker, pointing their head downwards.

As the birds in the sky are increasing in numbers, their song reaching once again the chorus, the flock is forming beautiful patterns. From the depths of the forest, all animals appear, quietly listening to the wonderful melody. Squirrels, rabbits, foxes, deers, wolves and bears. All observing in silent expectation.

The mysterious stranger whispers secret words into the ear of the Seeker. Words that only the reader knows.

Deep within their minds, forgotten words rise again to the surface.

Yes, it is that, what you are thinking.

Again the orchestra reaches it's climax. All birds in unison sing the chorus of the sacred song. “WE WILL MEET AGAIN.”

Even the mammals join the chorus. From behind the bushes, in the shadows of the trees and from within the long grass, they join the great symphony, adding with their unique voice and sound. Even the bear growls and the wolf howls the song of hope and liberation... All together, humming a melody, once forgotten, but deep within the heart always remembered.

As the Seeker listens, they again feel a wave of heat and energy moving through their body. Even more powerful than before. The Seeker raises their head upwards and for the first time, since the stranger sat himself beside them, they gaze directly into his eyes. Only now did they realize that the eyes of the stranger were burning, as if they were made of flames.

“Ok,” the Seeker says, grasping the hand of the Stranger and letting themself be lifted from the bench.

“For now... I'll let you walk by my side... But let this be clear: This does not mean I trust you... I am just curious, what will happen next.”

The Stranger chuckles.

“Frankly, I don't give a damn, whether you trust me or not. All that matters is that you are trusting yourself... I mean seriously, why are you so insecure? There is no need to be afraid. You are so much stronger than you think you are. You don't even see your own greatness. Why can't you see how wonderful you are?

I can see it so clearly... I don't even need to know you personally... Because no matter who you are, no matter where you are, no matter when you are, the fire of humanity is burning deep within you. So don't be afraid. There's no need for fear. If you could see yourself, as I see you, you would understand.”

The Seeker silently nods their head and takes a deep breath. They take their first step forward on a journey that would change their life forever. Side by Side, the Seeker and the Stranger are walking through the forest, leaving the bench behind.

“So,” the Seeker asks. “What's the matter with these eyes of yours?”

“Let me put it this way,” the mysterious Stranger laughs.

“One day, your eyes will burn as well.”

Even though they couldn't imagine in a million years, where the path would lead them, the Seeker felt an emergence of new excitement and joy, deep inside their heart. As they traversed into the Unknown land ahead, the Seeker realized that this was the beginning of a great adventure.

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Now, we have met again. The time has come. The long awaited signal was given. The promised words were spoken. The code is now remembered. The wait is over, the call for action is sent. It's time to step up and walk the path. As the Seeker made their choice, so did the Reader.

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TO BE CONTINUED

[the-unseen1]

6. Let us walk our highest path

The Seeker and the mysterious Stranger (Part 6 of 7)

6. Let us walk our highest path

“Are you truly walking on your highest path?” the mysterious stranger asks the Seeker.

The Seeker sighs tiredly.

“Well... Obviously not, as I am still sitting here on the bench with you... Still waiting for someone competent to arrive...”

The Seeker raises their head towards the sky as they feel a drop of rain falling on their skin.

“Why do you need someone else to guide you?” the mysterious stranger questions. “What hinders you from getting up and following your path?”

“For a start...," the Seeker responds, covering their head from the incoming rain. "I don't want to get lost in this dense forest. Someone experienced should go ahead.”

The mysterious stranger smirks

“Tell me, my dear friend, can someone else ever lead you towards your highest path? No, only you alone can find your highest path. Only you can walk it. If you follow someone else, it's their path and not yours. No, your highest path is unique to you.

One may assist you, during your walk. One may walk with you, side by side. Searching and finding together. But as soon as there is power involved, authority of words, thoughts and ideas, you will always get lost. Dependency hinders all progress. Attachment slows you down. Be free and follow your own highest path. Be a light to...”

Suddenly the rain begins pouring down in streams.

“Okay... wait a minute...” the Seeker interrupts.

“Slow down! Before you go on with another long-winded monologue... Can you first of all explain, what exactly you mean by 'highest path'?”

The mysterious stranger, strokes his chin, whilst contemplating a metaphor.

“Hmm... Do you enjoy playing Video games?”

The surprised Seeker gasps:

“Uh... Perhaps...? I did not expect video games to be a topic here...”

Neither did the reader. The rain is slowing down.

The mysterious stranger clears his throat:

“In some video games there are certain story-related decisions you can make, that will affect the ending of the game. Depending on your previous choices made throughout the game, you might get the best ending or the worst ending. Tell me Seeker, if Reality were a game wouldn't you prefer the best ending? Don't you want the coolest cutscene after you finished off the final boss?

This is what I refer to, by the 'highest path'. If life were a story, than the 'highest path' is the greatest story that you can experience in your individual lifetime.”

The Seeker is shocked in disbelief.

“Are you... Are you telling me...?”

Suddenly the rain stops entirely.

“Yes,” the mysterious stranger confirms with a grin on his face. His voice, full of exitement.

“We are going all in for the platinum trophy. Let us break the high-score. Let us end this game with 100 % completion. Let us achieve the best ending.”

The dark clouds above are lifting up. As they vanish, the bright rays of the sun are shining through the sky, illuminating their park bench.

For the first time, since the mad stranger sat himself on the bench next to them, the Seeker is speechless. They are overwhelmed by an emotion they haven't felt since childhood. A sense of innocent joy and wonder.

“You can't be serious. Do you... Do you actually believe, that this is possible?”

“Yes,” the Stranger smiles, his voice full of determination.

“We will find a way. All of us. Not just You individually. No, as a species, we will go for the best ending. And together, we shall write the greatest of all stories. Our own story. We are humanity, my friend.

Listen closely: If the individual follows their own highest path, the direction of the path of humanity will change as well. And as more people find their truest path, experience their greatest story, the timeline of our reality will shift as well.

You say, we are indifferent to the cosmos? You say, everything we do here on earth is meaningless in the grand scheme of things? You say, humanity is a parasite and our extinction is unavoidable? Let the heavens be my witness, I will prove you wrong!

We are the authors of the story of humanity and together we shall write a story that will echo through the cosmos. The melody of our song will reach the furthest stars, never to be forgotten. We will show the universe, that we are not meaningless, that we do have a purpose. We will prove our right to existence. Prove, that we are more than these selfish, violent, power-hungry monkeys. Whoever says, this can't be achieved, we will prove them wrong!

Let us face the challenge head-on, without any regrets. If we fail, then not without trying. If we die, then with a smile on our face. Together we will find a path of joy and laughter. A path of love and wisdom. A path of unity and freedom. ”

A rainbow appears in the sky, as the sun illuminates the forest, clearing all rain clouds.

“I- I don't believe you,” the Seeker stutters. “What you are suggesting is impossible. You are just a crazy mad man.”

“You are saying it's impossible, without even trying it,” the Stranger laughs frantically.

“Can't you see, that this limiting belief slows you down? Why are you so afraid to make a simple step? Will you continue to sit on this bench for all of eternity, waiting for someone who will never come?

Listen closely: The highest path, is the path with the ALL. This is the path, where each of your decisions will have the greatest good for ALL in mind. For humanity, for nature, for the earth, the universe and for you as individual, because you as well, are part of the ALL.

Walking the highest path, won't be easy. Life will challenge you with trials. You will need to prove yourself worthy. But fear not, you won't be alone. We will walk this path together. Up here and down there. Side by Side, as old friends. Are you ready to embark with me on this journey?”

The Seeker breathes heavily:

“Honestly... what you are telling me sounds really nice. And for some reason... I can't explain how... But... I had been thinking about some of the stuff, that you were telling me, already before... However, it just seems so difficult, so unfathomable... Like an unreachable goal. Do you seriously believe, that we are capable of this? Do you seriously have that much faith in humanity?”

A sudden, strong gust of wind, reaches the Seeker and the mysterious stranger on their bench. With closed eyes, the Stranger enjoys the wind brushing over his face. He breathes in the fresh air. His face turns into a big smile, as he opens his eyes.

“We will find a way,” the voice of the mysterious stranger thunders full of determination.

“No matter how, far off we have drifted off. No matter, how lost we are. No matter, how desperate our situation is. No matter how difficult, how painful, how frightening the path ahead may seem; remember this: We will always find a way. This is the strength of humanity, to always find the way. To face every challenge and emerge victorious. And if the path seems out of reach, if there's no way at all, we create our own way. We will do it. We will make it. For we are humanity.”

For a moment there is a uncomfortable silence between the two. The Seeker doesn't respond. Even the crickets are silent. Tumbleweed is being pushed by the wind, rolling in front of the bench.

The stranger takes a deep breath:“Let me ask you a different question, dear Seeker. Do you remember the promise?”

TO BE CONTINUED

[the-unseen1]

Why are we unable to find the truth within?

The Seeker and the mysterious Stranger (Part 5 of 7)

5. Why are we unable to find the truth within?

“What is it, that you are actually seeking,” the mysterious Stranger asks the Seeker.

“I don't know...,” responds the Seeker tiredly. “I just want answers... Like, why are we even here? What is our purpose? It just all seems so meaningless and I kinda hope, that there is an answer. That there is something out there... Some explanation...What is the meaning of life? Is there a god? Is there life after death? Is there any hope for us? Is... Is my life...”The Seeker struggles to finish their sentence. They gather all their courage and ask:

“Is my life... important at all?”

The mysterious stranger raises up his head towards the Sky:

“I understand, how tough it is... This feeling of meaninglessness. The nihilism of this era... This deep longing for something that is lost... This great confusion and sorrow...Did you ever hear it, Seeker? Have you ever listened to the question asked, deep within the heart of every human being? Beyond all limiting beliefs, beyond words and thoughts. Listen closely, for the melody of your heart is asking: Who am I?

You know... We have played this game since millennia. We have searched behind every tree, looked under every stone and illuminated every cave... But no matter how far we travelled, no matter how long it took us, we haven't found it.

I say it's time, to answer this question. We have been seeking long enough. Let us finally find it, the answer. Let us go within. Because, there it was always hidden.”

“What do you mean by go within,” the Seeker asks confused. “Like... How should this help me to answer my questions?”

The mysterious stranger sighs disappointed. “So you didn't get the joke about the man with the Mohawk haircut after all... I really hoped it'd make you laugh. Poured quite some effort into it... But anyway... Let me tell you one thing: We will find it. The answer. We will finally end the eternal seeking and open up the next chapter in the book of humanity. I know it's hard to believe, but we will find the answer. It might take a while, but we'll get there. That's my promise to you.”

“Then explain to me,” the Seeker demands. “If it's supposed to be so easy to find the answer, why haven't we found it until now? What is blocking us from finding it?”

The mysterious stranger grins.

“Why are we blind to the beauty within all things? What is hindering us from projecting unconditional love into the world? Why can't we shine the brightest light, illuminate the world with our source of being? Why are we so limited?

The great challenge, hindering us from realizing the truth of our being, is called 'The Ego'. This is what has lead us astray, from our highest path, our natural way of life. Driven by the Ego, we are blinded by our fears and desires. Running away from our fears and hunting after pleasure.

Many people have given the Ego different meanings, different definitions, but to keep it as simple as possible: The Ego is a complex thought structure, built from memories and ideas. The Ego is nothing physical, it is a mental in nature. A mental concept, that separates the “I” from the “You”. The observer from the observed. It is the cause of our separation, the root of our selfish behaviour, the core of our illusions. The Ego, as the centre of our thoughts, is instilled in us from a young age. It has shaped our civilizations, systems and ideologies.”

The Seeker stares confused at the mysterious stranger, trying to grasp the meaning of his words.

“I... I don't understand, what you are trying to tell me...”

The mysterious stranger scratches his chin, thinking about another way to explain it.

“Ever seen one of these horror movies, where people are infected by some swarm intelligence? It's quite ironic, if you think about it... In real live it is actually the other way around. Your natural state of being is in connection with the rest of the world, but due to the Ego, you live in the illusion of separation. Which causes suffering, conflicts, wars, global crises, murder, greed, violence, pollution... The list goes on and on...

Now this doesn't mean, that the Ego is something inherently evil... Or some kind of parasite that controls peoples minds... No the Ego has it's purpose in our lives. There is a reason, why the Ego exists. The Ego is a challenge, that you are supposed to overcome. The Ego is an obstacle, that you need to leave behind. It is the stepping stone for our human evolution. And our inability to overcome it until now, has lead us into the current state of human society. Our inability to face it, causes problems on an individual, as well as on the collective level.

To be fair... in our primeval times, it was the ego, that has allowed us humans to climb up the foot chain. The Ego, as a survival mechanism has protected us, throughout the last ages... Due to the Ego, humanity reigns today supreme on earth. Our Architectural, cultural and societal achievements were driven by the Ego.

Nevertheless, the Ego remains the root cause of all selfishness. Today the Power of the Ego is as strong as it has never been before in the entirety of human existence. It corrupts all institutions, all organizations, all nations.

As long as we are driven by the Ego, we will remain unable to find, what we truly seek. True bliss can only be felt, when the Ego is not. True Love can only flower, when the Ego is not. To find peace and beauty, one must let go of the Ego. Because that, what we truly are, is beyond all limitations... Do you now understand, what this is all about?

We need to look beyond the Ego to find ourselves, our true self, not limited by thought. We must overcome the Ego and find that, which we have lost a long time ago: Our Love, in it's purest form, undiluted, uncorrupted. That is why we need to change on a personal level. Each person, one at a time. The Ego is a prison, that keeps you from finding. These shackles have bound us for far too long. But you need to do the steps yourself. You see... No one can free you, you can only free yourself. ”

“I don't need to change,” the Seeker shouts offended. “And I don't want to change. Why should I? I am perfectly content with myself. It's not my fault that the world is going downhill and it's not my responsibility to do anything about it. I am living a honest life. Working hard and doing my best to take care of the people in my life. Not long ago, I gave a pretty high tip at the restaurant. And... there was this homeless guy, I donated some money to...”

“Tell me Seeker,” the mysterious stranger requests calmly. “Are you truly living the best life, that you can possibly experience? Are you truly walking on your highest path?”

TO BE CONTINUED

[the-unseen1]

4: You are Humanity

The Seeker and the mysterious Stranger (Part 4 of 7)

4: You are Humanity

The Seeker sighs, as they sit beside the mysterious stranger on a forest-bench.

“Listen,” says the Seeker. “You tell me, that unconditional love will change the world. But lets be real. Love won't pay my rent. Love won't help me get a job. I can't feed my kids with love.”

The mysterious stranger in his blue, hooded robe, looks at the Seeker confused. “I honestly don't understand your problem. You can live your life and still love. Love is a state of being. Your most natural state of being, to be precise. So why do you seek excuses not to love?”

“Alright,” responds the Seeker. “Then tell me: Do you expect me to just love anyone? Am I supposed to love someone who threatens me or my loved ones? Am I supposed to love a terrorist? Am I supposed to love a mass murder or a criminal? Will you tell someone, who was abused... that they need to love and forgive their perpetrators? Will you tell a parent, who lost their child in war, that they should love their enemy?”

“Yes,” answers the stranger, without hesitation. “Love is the answer.”

“You can't be serious,” the Seeker claims with an enraged voice. “There are just people, you can't love. Like the really dark shit, you read on the news...People who enjoy harming others... No one loves these types of people... You can't tell me otherwise.”

The mysterious stranger remains calm. “The answer remains the same... Love them with all your heart.”

The Seeker shakes their head. “No, no, no... You are being a hypocrite. I am sure that you are just saying this to sound superior. I mean... There are people, who are simply evil! Unlovable! Everyone hates them. Society hates them. If you don't hate them, you are evil as well.”

“Is it ever bad to love,” the mysterious stranger questions. “Is love something that needs to be deserved? No my friend, you can't ever limit love, because love is infinite... We will go further into the matter of love, another time... If you may allow me, let us rather ask, why do we human beings, judge one another at all?”

“Go ahead,” sighs the Seeker.

The mysterious stranger clears his throat:

“We judge people based on their actions, based on their behaviour, based on their societal status, their wealth, their power. We are being judged based on our looks, on our sexual orientation, on our ethnicity, on our religion or ideology. We judge ourself, for our thoughts, words and actions. We compare, we compete and we cause conflict. So why are we judging each other at all?

Can't you see, that all human beings, just like you, are playing a character? A role in their family, at their job, within their friend circles. Don't you see, that they, just like you suffer? Can't you see, that they have fears and desires, just as you do? No matter what they did, there is always a reason, always a motive behind their action. Everyone is experiencing their own story.

Yes, there are some people who did horrible crimes, that are truly unfathomable. But even in the most heinous murderers, hidden deep within, burns the same fire of humanity, as in you. A faint light that experiences all the acts of the Ego as an observer, suffering from what it is witnessing. Those who are consumed by hatred, need love the most. Can't you see, that deep within, those who harmed you, never wanted to?”

The Seeker grunts in dissatisfaction: “Even if, what you are telling me is true. Should I just forget my pain? Should I just forgive them? Let them go freely, without any justice? Why should I do this? Why should I love and forgive humans, who caused me so much suffering?!”

“Isn't that obvious,” the Stranger answers with a warm smile. “My friend, don't you see? You are all the people, that you judge and you are everyone, who judges you. You are every victim and you are every perpetrator.

YOU ARE HUMANITY. You are the rest of mankind. You are the story, the game, the play, the experience. You are the fire, that burns deep within every single human being. You are the force of life. You are the Source of all being. You are that, which is unseen.

Perhaps it is too early for you to understand, perhaps you are not ready just yet... But at the end of our journey, when you return here, this will feel like a long forgotten Easter egg. When you have realized this truth, it will be You, playing the role of the mysterious stranger.

If you don't understand, let me show it to you... Walk with me together, side by Side... And you shall see, what I have seen... You will feel, what I have felt. I am telling you: There is something worth saving in Humanity. There is purpose behind our existence. We are here for a reason.

This is why we need to find again that, which we have lost. Let us restore the faith in Humanity. Let us find the light, that burns within. To have faith in Humanity is to have faith in Yourself. Let us find, our truest path. The path of unconditional love, the path with the ALL. Let us renew our faith in Humanity and thus our faith in ourselves.”

After finishing, the mysterious stranger stares intensely at the Seeker, expecting an answer. There is an uncomfortable silence between the two, awkwardly sitting on a bench.

“...Well,” the Seeker sighs after some time.

“How about... No??! I mean... Like... I don't even fucking know you... And now you come along and tell me all this nonsense. Are you trying to get me into some weird shit? Seriously, I am not interested... So, if you are now finally finished with your long-winded monologue... Will you now please... Please for Fucks sake... Please piss off? Seriously... I can't take it any more... If I hear one more word from your mouth (...See one more post on this Sub)... I will report you to whoever is in charge of this forest here.”

“Tell me Seeker,” the mysterious Stranger asks, ignoring their begging for silence. “What is it, that you are actually searching for?”

“By the love of god,” the Seeker shakes in fear. “Please... Please don't tell me this will be continued...”

TO BE CONTINUED

Find previous part Here:

[the-unseen1]

3. Love will change the world

The Seeker and the mysterious Stranger (Part 3 of 7)

3. Love will change the world

“Listen man, I want to be honest with you,” the Seeker says to the mysterious stranger. Both are sitting on their bench, deep in a forest.

“You know... I am tired... Utterly exhausted. Everyday, is a day of struggle. After every achievement, reality kicks in and I am crushed by Life. One challenge after the other. So many problems to fix, so many battles to win. Everything just seems... so shallow... so meaningless.

First you go to school, then perhaps higher education, get a job, get married, raise your children, climb the career ladder, then your children move out, then retirement and after couple of years you die lonely in a nursery home... And I ask myself, is that all that there is to Life? A constant struggle to fit in with the expectations of society? Why do I still get out of bed everyday?

Life has let me down, humanity has let me down. Whenever I read the news, I just get sad, angry or disgusted. Everyone knows how fucked up the world is... We are all aware of what's going on. All these terrible things happening... And I am just tired with it, that's all. Disappointed with life itself. And Yet, all I ever wanted is to be happy...”

The mysterious stranger looks at the Seeker with empathetic eyes.

“Let me ask you Seeker, if you had the power to change the world, what kind of world would you envision?”

“I don't know,” answers the Seeker, yawning. “Perhaps a world, that is peaceful, without any wars. Perhaps a world, free of environmental pollution. A world free of prejudices and biases of any kind. A world of joy and laughter. A world of bliss. A world of Freedom and unity. Where we share our food, instead of fighting over oil. I just want a world, where I can be myself without being judged or taken advantage of. A world, that allows me to be happy.”

“Let me tell you a secret,” the mysterious stranger grins. “Everyone dreams of such a world. Doesn't matter where they live, doesn't matter what they do. On the deepest level, this is what all of us actually want. Even those who are fully consumed by hatred... Even they long deep within, for such a world.”

The Seeker scratches their forehead:

“But... If everyone supposedly dreams of such a society, then explain to me, why we are unable to change it.”

“That is a very long story,” the mysterious stranger smirks.

“I will tell it to you, when you visit my hut. But for a short answer: We don't change the world because we don't believe, that we can. We think it's impossible... Because this is all we ever knew. But what if I tell you, that there is a way? What if I tell you, that it is in fact possible. Close your eyes and imagine it. Can you see it? A world, where people are dancing on the street, singing a song of liberation. A world, where old enemies drink together as friends. Can you hear the song, that resounds deep within the heart of every human being? Can you feel it? The wind of change blowing into your face.”

The Seeker blows some air from their nose. “Tss... And how do you suppose, we achieve this? Through a revolution? We all know how well this worked out in the past... Or do you propose a reformation, a couple of social programs... You think, this will change the world?”

The mysterious stranger burst out in laughter:

“Certainly, this won't change anything. You can't fight violence with violence. You can't fight separation through further separation. No, you can't change the world through any ideologies or political action.

Now what is it in ourselves, that is needed most in these times? What is it, that can wipe away all of our tears, all of our suffering, our anguish and our hate... What is it, that can break the cycle of destruction? What is it, that can free us from the prison, that we ourselves have created?

The answer, my friend, is LOVE. LOVE will change this world. LOVE is a force that cannot be stopped. All shadows vanish, when you shine the light of love on it. You can't grasp it, it is neither yours or mine. LOVE is there for everyone and anyone. ”

“Love?!” The Seeker asks in disbelief. “This is like the most stereotypical answer you can give. How should love itself transform the world?”

“Well,” admits the mysterious stranger. “It's not that simple. You see, throughout the Ages, the meaning behind the word 'Love' was corrupted. Wrongly defined by many. We have lost it a long time ago. I say, it's about time, that we find it again. Love in its purest form. Once you have found it, you will understand. And you will see the power in it. You will see, the ripples that it sends out, from person to person.”

The Seeker shakes their head, laughing. “You are spouting nonsense. I have never before heard such bullshit in my life. It won't make any difference if a single person changes. The world will remain fucked up.”

The face of the mysterious stranger lights up in excitement:

“Don't you see it, my friend? Your influence on the collective is so much greater, than you can even imagine. Your thoughts, emotions, words and actions affect your entire sphere of influence, which is interconnected with the rest of the world. One light flaring up can suffice, to illuminate an entire room. LOVE may be hard to find, hard to see, as we are all so caught up in our prisons and illusions. But it just needs one person, to find true, unconditional Love... If one person changes their outlook on life; this will reflect on the collective consciousness. Change yourself and you change the world. For you are the world and the world is you.”

“Utter bullshit,” the Seeker spouts.

“If I behave compassionate, someone else will take advantage of me. If I don't take what I want, someone else will take it. If I show weakness, I will lose. So why should I give up my sense of self, if this leads to regrets? Even if I were to 'transform' myself, there is always someone out there to hurt me. I have been hurt enough in my life to know, what humans are capable of.”

“Please tell me, dear Seeker,” the mysterious stranger asks in a serious tone. “Why are you so afraid of love?”

TO BE CONTINUED

Find previous post here:

[the-unseen1]

The Seeker and the mysterious Stranger (Part 2 of 7)

2. The fate of Humanity

“No, please don't tell me another joke,” the Seeker begs the mysterious stranger. “I am still in the process of recovering from the last one.”

The mysterious stranger clears his throat:

“Well then, let us get serious... Since millennia, humanity has followed the same old pattern. Unable to change for the better. Repeating the same mistakes over and over again.”

“Oh no... What have I done,” the Seeker mumbles, regretting their decision immediately. “Should have went with the joke.”

“Look at what we have done to the world,” the stranger continues.

“The earth is bleeding. Wildfires, mass extinction, pollution. Look at what we have done to each other. All these wars, all these atrocities... Hate, greed, power and violence... You may deny it, you may ignore it, but deep within, you are well aware, that there is something going horribly wrong with us.

Don't you ask yourself, how any of this makes sense?! The world is such a beautiful place, yet all of us are suffering... Can't you see how paradoxical that is? To live in a world, so colourful, so wonderfully vibrant, where beauty can be seen in all of nature... And yet at the same time, we have made this experience here on earth insufferable.

So we should start to ask the question, why we have allowed this to happen. We need to understand, why humanity has trapped itself in this pattern of destruction and why, after all this time, we are still unable to escape it.

As a species, we may have evolved biologically, we may evolved technologically, but inwardly, we have remained same. We are still the same limited, selfish, violent creatures. So self-centred. So destructive. So separated. Always in conflict with another. Always dominating each other. We are selfishly running from our fears and chasing our desires, without caring about the harm, we are causing to our brothers and sisters. ”

“Well it's just in our nature,” the Seeker argues dismissively. “It's not like there's anything, we can do about this.”

The stranger chuckles:

“Ah yes... The same excuse we have been telling ourselves since generations. 'There's nothing we can do, so there's no reason to even question it'... So we just keep on ignoring our inherent problems, because thinking about them is uncomfortable.

Listen Seeker, it's about time we face reality. If we continue on this path, the story of humanity will end as a tragedy. Surely, the earth will at some point regenerate from all of the damage we have done. Certainly after a couple of millennia the climate will balance itself out, nature will adapt... However if we continue following the same direction, Humanity will face extinction.”

“This might be for the better,” the Seeker suggests. “You yourself just listed some of the reasons. We are parasites. It's better to cut off an arm, before the sickness harms the entire body.”

“And you just simply accept that,” the stranger questions. “You believe that these reoccurring patterns are just in our human nature. That they are set in stone. Let's look at it objectively. We are animals, mammals, just as monkeys. But why aren't any other animal species as destructive as we are? Why is nature in balance, while we cause unbalance? Why is the universe in complete order, while we are causing disorder? What is the root of our collective and individual problems?”

“I don't know,” the Seeker sighs. “And I don't care... It might be in our genes... It might be in our culture... It's not like we could change anything about this. There have been countless religions and ideologies, but nothing has helped us to improve. So why even try... It's too late anyway... Yeah we might die out... So what? “

The stranger sheds a tear. “You can't see it. I wish I could show it to you. This beautiful story of humanity. This great song of love and hate, of suffering and laughter, of beauty and bitterness. This wonderful human experience.

Can't you understand that we do have a role play in life? Just as the insects, the birds, fish, plants and mammals are playing their role in nature, we have a role to play as well.

Can't you see, how boring the earth would be without us? Who else would there be to gaze at the stars and give them meaning? Who else would stare at the rising sun, the trees, the clouds and the mountains here on earth and be amazed by the beauty of existence, if it weren't for us?

Do you truly believe, that there's nothing worth saving in humanity? Are you really content with our story to end so soon?”

The Seeker groans in discontent. “Listen here fellow. I have no idea, where you are getting at. I agree with you, that it would be sad indeed, but humankind will die out eventually. So why should it matter, if it happens in a hundred years or in a thousand years? We are living on a tiny planet in the vastness of space. Our extinction means nothing to the universe. Our existence is completely meaningless. So why, for fucks sake, does this even matter?”

The stranger smirks.

“Yes, Earth might be just a tiny, blue speck in the vastness of space... But it's our speck. It's our home... Why should you care, how large the universe is? You are living here on earth. You might believe, that the universe is indifferent about your experience as a human being. You might believe yourself to be small, worthless or irrelevant, but in the story of humanity you aren't. You are an integral part of humanity. You are shaping the collective consciousness with every thought, emotion and action. Why do you question your role in the universe, when you don't even see your role here on Earth**?**”

The Seeker gets annoyed:

“I don't care about humanity. I don't even care about the earth. I have my own worries, my own problems to take care of. I have bills to pay... So why should I even make the effort?”

The stranger takes a deep breath:

“Have you ever wondered, dear Seeker, whether your individual problems may be related to our collective problems?”

TO BE CONTINUED

Find previous part Here:

[the-unseen1]

The Seeker and the mysterious Stranger (Part 1 of 7)

Part 1: That one strange guy who suddenly turned up, telling weird stories about mohawks

Deep within a dark forest, the Seeker sits alone on a bench. He has been waiting there, since a very long time. His absent gaze, staring into the nothingness, is suddenly interrupted, as he hears a voice that seems familiar and unknown at the same time:

“I'm sorry for taking this long,” the mysterious stranger speaks with a calm voice.

“Do I happen to know you,” the Seeker asks confused. Their head remains unmoved.

“No,” the mysterious stranger chuckles. “But it's about time. Do you mind, if I sit right next to you?”

The Seeker keeps their stare undeterred. “I have reserved this spot for someone else. Find yourself a different bench.”

Despite the Seekers request, the mysterious stranger places himself next to them.

“...Why are you even asking, if you sit down anyway,” the annoyed Seeker sighs with a puzzled face.

The mysterious stranger clears his throat: “Have you ever heard the story of the sick man, searching for a healer with a Mohawk?”

“No... Like... What even is this question? And why are you still sitting here... Get the Fuck away from here...”

“There was a man who was suffering,” the mysterious stranger begins his monologue undeterred. “He longed for a cure, so he consulted an oracle. 'Look for the healer who wears a Mohawk hairstyle,' said the oracle. 'He alone will be able to heal you.'

So the Sick Man went out looking for the healer with the Mohawk. He visited every village, searched under every stone and behind every tree. But nowhere did he find the healer with the Mohawk. Years passed and one day he heard of a hermit on a mountain who could cure any disease. No one knew what he looked like and the Sick Man hoped the hermit wore a Mohawk. So he climbed the mountain and found the hermit in a lonely hut. When the sick man saw the hermit, he was disappointed because they turned out to be bald. The hermit asked the sick man why he had undertaken the arduous journey. The sick man told him about his suffering, about the oracle and his long search.

'I know where you will find the one who can heal you,' said the hermit. 'But my wisdom comes at a price. My head is bald and at night it gets cold up here. Donate me some of your hair and I will show you the way.' The sick man was willing to pay any price, so he allowed the hermit to cut his hair. The hermit shaved the patient's hair on the left and right sides. However he did not touch the hair in the middle. 'Now go to the fish pond over there,' spoke the hermit. 'There you will find the one who can heal you.'

The sick man could hardly wait. He ran to the pond and looked into the reflecting water. Finally, he found the one wearing a Mohawk.

'Can you free me from my suffering?' he asked the fish in the water."

The Seeker remains unmoved. “Ok... Very funny joke... Will you leave now?”

“Let me ask you, dear Seeker... How far did you ever get by waiting?”

For a moment the Seeker is lost in thought. When did they tell the stranger their name? They shake their head: “I'm waiting for a teacher, who will show me the path. So get lost... I don't have time for your silly shenanigans.”

Suddenly the mysterious stranger burst out in laughter. After noticing, that the Seeker doesn't join his laughter, his face turns serious: “Wait... You are actually serious, aren't you? I'm sorry to break it to you, but this teacher you are waiting for, will never come.”

“You can't know this for sure,” the Seeker argues offended. “My teacher could arrive any minute now.”

“Why do you need a teacher to lead you on your path,” the mysterious stranger questions. “It's your life, it's your path, it's your journey. Which teacher knows you so well, that they can navigate you?”

The Seeker grins condescendingly. “You can't fool me. I can see right through you. You will now be telling me, that you are the teacher, I have been waiting for. I am not falling for any of these tricks!”

The mysterious stranger smirks. “Ah, you got me all wrong. I don't want to be your teacher. I don't want to be your leader, your guru, your doctor, or your Mailman...”

“...Mailman?” The Seeker asks confused.

The stranger continues undeterred: “I have no interest whatsoever to play the role of your guide. I just simply want to be your friend. Two equals, who want to undertake the same journey. Walking side by side. Two friends, who share the same dreams, concerns and goals. Finding out the path together.”

“So you don't know the path either,” the Seeker concludes disappointed. “I'd rather continue sitting here, waiting until someone comes, who actually knows where to go.”

“Alright,” says the mysterious stranger. “I will wait here with you.”

“There's no need for you to stay here,” the Seeker urges with a nervous smile. “You go ahead. I'll be alright on my own. Nevertheless... I have enjoyed this 'interesting' conversation... Goodbye now.”

“Nah,” the stranger answers unmoved. “When your teacher appears, I'll get up... So while we are waiting here, do you want to hear another joke or should we rather discuss the fate of Humanities self-destructive patterns?”

For a short moment there is an awkward eye contact between the Seeker and the Stranger. Suddenly, the Seeker breaks the silence:

“...The fate of what....?!”

It was at exactly this moment, that the Seeker realized, that they were trapped.

TO BE CONTINUED