Photo by Mira Devi.
There is a constant force shaping our experience that we usually don’t recognize: we are often “at the effect” of everything we encounter. The reactions that arise within us in response to these experiences are called the “effect.”
For example: we might see a steaming cup of coffee. We experience the effects of this encounter as: craving, a rush of energy, and the internal thought “I need that.”
We typically don’t realize that we are controlled by our own biases and reactions to everything we come across. Every perception—whether dramatic or subtle, physical or mental—affects us in some way.
One of the key roles of the mind is the ability to decide what is beneficial and what is harmful for us. This allows us to steer clear of negative experiences and embrace positive ones. However, much of this decision-making happens automatically, without conscious thought.
This process plays a dual role: not only does it help us navigate life, but it also shapes the very sense of who we are. Because of this, the origins of these decisions often remain hidden from our awareness. What we do feel, though, are their consequences. By closely examining these consequences, we can begin to uncover the deeper patterns or “programs” that drive our behaviors and responses so persistently.
It can be a very powerful practice to begin noticing everything you are at the effect of and understanding what the effects are. The more fully we observe the ways we automatically react to events, the better chance we have for slowing down such impulses and making more conscious choices.
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