Ever wondered if the world around you is really “real”? Like, truly real, outside of your own head? That’s a deep question, and one that philosopher Bentinho explores in a pretty mind-blowing way. He suggests that everything we experience, from the leaves on a tree to the smell of fresh air, isn’t actually an “object” out there, but rather a collection of our own perceptions.
Think about it. You see a green tree, feel its bark, and smell its scent. But what if those experiences are just your senses interpreting information? Bentinho proposes that we live in a sea of perceptions, not a world of solid things.
Whoa, right? This might sound like sci-fi, but it has some big implications. If everything is just perception, then what about objective reality – the idea that stuff exists whether we see it or not? Bentinho challenges that whole concept, even suggesting that science, with all its studies of “objects,” is based on a belief system, like a religion.
So, what do we do with this head-spinning idea? Bentinho suggests becoming more aware of our own experience. Instead of getting lost in thoughts and labels, he recommends being present, “mindful,” and paying attention without judgment. It’s like quieting the mental chatter and truly seeing, smelling, and feeling the world around you.
It sounds simple, but there’s a catch. Stopping thinking can feel weird, even sleepy. But that’s not the goal! The key is to stay awake and aware, like observing the silence after the noise subsides. This direct experience, Bentinho says, can lead to a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world. We see that the “solid” world is actually a flowing dance of perceptions, and with that comes a sense of freedom and peace.
Next time you’re feeling caught up in the daily grind, remember this advice. Take a moment to be present, stop thinking, and simply experience. You might just discover a deeper connection to the world around you, not as objects, but as a beautiful, ever-unfolding journey of perception.
Awaken Spiritually at MorningCompass.com