schizophrenia and the spiritual crisis

[Jhanananda]

If we study the lives of the major mystics we find that they all went through a period of cutting off social ties, and retreating from the world.  Psychiatry would dismiss this as sociopathy, or ambivolents; but then, when did they ever understand the path to enlightenment?  So, we here have to help each other understand this journey within.

To support my family I too had to take a few graveyard shift to pay the bills.  These were times when it was very difficult to maintain the charisms.  We do what we have to to survive; however, a work schedule that does not support one's journey to enlightenment, should be left as soon as possible. 

[roamer]

Well I have paid my student loan debt, tidied up my family ties, ended a difficult romantic relationship, and ended my nightshift job. I have a vehicle rigged for nomadic living, and savings, basically something the younger contemplative version of myself dreamed for.  Ironically I am hesistant, sluggish, and perhaps scared to burst forth now and go all in on the contemplative life that the shackles are off.  Like those elephants that grow up with them i guess.

I need to recommit myself to rigorous self discipline and reflection as well as meditation. I think I will make a habit of weekly posting my journal here to help.  I hope to get back to meditation stability where I might be able to offer some assistance to others here on the path.  Not there now though.

[Jhanananda]

Well I have paid my student loan debt, tidied up my family ties, ended a difficult romantic relationship, and ended my nightshift job. I have a vehicle rigged for nomadic living, and savings, basically something the younger contemplative version of myself dreamed for. 

Then you have made excellent preparations.

Ironically I am hesistant, sluggish, and perhaps scared to burst forth now and go all in on the contemplative life that the shackles are off.  Like those elephants that grow up with them i guess.

Yes, this is true for most of us.  This seems like a reasonable plan.  Plus, you could just start out with some plans for extended retreats; then, as you feel comfortable on retreat, then you could extend the time out.

I need to recommit myself to rigorous self discipline and reflection as well as meditation. I think I will make a habit of weekly posting my journal here to help.  I hope to get back to meditation stability where I might be able to offer some assistance to others here on the path.  Not there now though.

I look forward to reading your regular posts here.