1. When have you experienced that quality of existence that cannot be reached by the rational mind?

2. Jung believed that inside of us is the whole Universe. Do you agree? Why? Why not?

3. When have you experienced something that was in between the lines such as the movements of the chef in the Victory diner? What was the quality of it like?

4. How could you take stock of your life like the man who spends the whole day sitting on top of his future grave?

5. What do you think about the belief that “your essence knows no end?”

6. When did you experience a oneness with the Universe like the man with the bee, the snowstorm and the large man at the intersection?

7. How comfortable are you with silence and mystery?

8. Suppose the only work was to quiet all the noise. Would you be able to quiet your own inner noise?

Possible Practices

1. Pay attention to mystery this week.

2. Observe how it occurs in nature.

3. Consider when and how it has occurred in your own life.

4. Consider ways mystery strengthens your spiritual life.

5. Consider what resistance you have towards mystery and silence. What could you do to become more comfortable with it, such as a regular meditation practice or attending retreats?

Visit the X - the mystery homepage for more ways to practice this spiritual quality. Follow the links in the left column to:

  • a collection of quotations on compassion
  • book recommendations
  • book excerpts and teaching stories
  • film recommendations
  • music and art meditations
  • a daily cue, reminder, vow, and blessing for compassion
  • a prayer or mantra
  • personal explorations including imagery and journal exercises
  • practices and spiritual exercises
  • questions for discussion, storytelling, sharing
  • take action with household, group, and community projects
  • and more

Prepared by Persephone Zill with contributions from Frederic and Mary Ann Brussat