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50 Twelve Facets of Reality object or as a subject. It is a daily practice. Start from today. Ask yourself, “How do I see that person?” First create a mental picture. Do you see him or her exactly equal to you? When you do, then tell yourself, “What I don't like, that person may not like, so I must not do that. And what I want, that person may want. So let me share and give space, live and let live.”
When you experience oneness, you have won your goal in life. When you don't see that oneness, then you are constantly dependent, always crying on somebody's shoulder. What happens when you don't find a shoulder to cry on? You are miserable. But if you build inner strength and understanding, then, even in old age, you will have friends around you. They will feel neither burdened nor bound by you; they will enjoy communication with you, subject to subject.
This unique meditation helps us have a glimpse of the truth. It allows us to see that the flame in our being is the same flame everywhere. The outer shapes may be different-the chimneys, the bulbs, the shades—but inside, the living light is the same. You become aware of everyone as flame, including yourself. Only on this level is a bridge of communication built. There is no other way to build such a bridge with mankind. So long as you see forms, there is no bridge.
In realizing that everyone has this quality of light, you discover that it is inborn, not given or applied. It is man's intrinsic nature, his birthright as a human being. That is why this teaching has great relevance to our lives. It removes the old habit of the mind which likes to create duality and it brings our lionhood to the surface. When the mind starts to separate, saying, “Somebody else has this quality of lion, not I,” remember ekatva to bring you back to yourself. Experience the oneness. See the lion quality in yourself as well as in others.