Most of us have seen the Disney animation Pinocchio with his companion Jiminy Cricket. Some would say that Jiminy Cricket portrays the Higher Self as he guides the wooden boy through trials, meant as experiences for wisdom in order to obtain a higher state of being. Psychologically speaking the Higher Self could be considered the Superego, introduced by Sigmund Freud. The superego aims for perfection. It is the more sensible of the id and ego, by which it filters through the wants and desires and concentrates on the needs.
Spiritually we have needs that must be met and nourished in order to function on a more secure, stable and health y level. It is in this particular belief that we should look at our bodies as a vessel or temple in which we must tend to on various levels (mentally, physically, emotionally) and respect (physically, morally). It is (the body) for all intent and purposes our organic housing for our Higher Self. The Higher Self is an extension of the divinity making it a part of the divine source and thus you too. Some believe that the Higher Self carries the knowledge of our pre-incarnate goals and path, thus leading us when we’ve entered into the density (Earth). So we make look to our Higher Self in a few different aspects: guardian angel, future self and inner genius.
If the Higher Self already has the knowledge of our future selves, why should we awaken it? Why should we make the connection with our conscious self to the higher wisdom? Won’t we make it to the same destination with our without that link? Currently it is our nature to need and desire control. We need control over our actions which mold our daily lives. So what is so different now? Do you feel some comfort in knowing that there is a driving force behind your actions already and you’ll make it to the finishing line regardless? If that is so, I say that is foolish, considering we often find ourselves saying “I’ll determine my own destiny”. I suppose you could say the Higher Self is a form of destiny. However, consider the element of free will and how it applies to destiny. What is your answer? If you think it does, then I applaud you in your security of your Higher Self and wish you the best on your ever continuing journey. If you believe that free will is that one element that breaks the definition and guidelines (not rules) of destiny, then let us travel further.
First, let us stop distinguishing ‘Higher Self’ and ‘I’ from one another; they are one in the same. Some would look on and say “This is a classic case of personality disorder” but that is simply not the case. We adapt according to our surroundings and our company. This is all instinctual. To be rejected is to face the world alone and let’s face it; the world is terrifying without the company of companions. What better way to think of ourselves as our own companions; future me and current me. Who better to learn from for that matter?
The phrase “Who better than to ask myself?” comes to mind and that is exactly what forming a bond or link to our Higher self is. Two against one; what is the better odd? Both! By the time you’ve established open communication with yourself you’ve gone from a state of ‘two’ (Higher self and Self) into one. The cliche' saying is appropriate; you are your own worst enemy.
On the subject of destiny, free will and how it all applies to us; change is the only constant. Though we may have an end destination and even a set route for this destination, it is to be expected that we’ll get lost along the way. We’re here for a reason and that reason is to learn, to be educated, to become wiser and more prepared for our next adventure which we often label journey. Our biggest asset in terms of guidance is ourselves. We know exactly what is best and what is necessary for the trials ahead. However, just because we’re aware of such things does not mean we listen which is a prime example of free will and how something can re-route or course. No experience should be considered pointless because it should be quite obvious there was an intended lesson for us to learn that would assist us in a future situation. Most of us think in terms now, today and this lifetime. We expect that every lesson we’ve acquired here will be applied here. This is also a reason we apply time to our biological clocks. So let’s throw the clock out of the window and take a second to reflect.
I speak in terms of reincarnation; we’ve had several lives. Lessons learned from a life time one-hundred years ago could be a guiding force in this current journey and there is where the High Self (ourselves) come in; a keeper of wisdom, knowledge and all around ‘silent’ guide. But what form does it come in? It is in my opinion that our High self can be presented in forms that we associate with such as animal guides, Angels or human like avatars (usually appearing as we ourselves would like to appear).
You will not always hear that voice in the back of your head. Most times I feel mine. Whether it’s a flutter in my stomach or an uncomfortable sensation that I couldn’t possibly describe (words fall short), I know it is myself alerting me in ways that it (I) knows I’ll respond. The problem is, the force of desire can often overpower the force of right and need. So if you ever think yourself is not being of assistance, you may find that you’re just not listening.
Here are some exercises that can assist in making the desired contact with your Higher Self.
Meditation
- Find a comfortable, quite spot to either sit or lay down (though if you’re lying down you’re more likely to fall asleep!).
- For comfort you may play soft instrumental music, light candles or incense to help relax your body and mind.
- Breathe in through your nose and out through your mouth. Envision the air you take in as a powerful, soothing energy that exhales as a gold or white light or mist.
- Around you envision a bubble of protection—color or clear, it’s your decision. This will be your protective shield while you’re inside yourself so that no other energies but those you allow can influence your thoughts.
- Think of a neutral place, not a lot of ‘details’ such as cars and buildings, but more like a glen or field. In the distance you will see a figure—and this is where you will determine how you would like to see yourself.
- As this figure nears it should take more shape and become more clear and featured.
- Once it has made its way to you, standing just a few feet from you, allow yourself to embrace its energy. Envision the exchange of energy like flowing water or air. It should look remarkably similar to your own, if not the very same.
- In your meditation, envision yourself raising your right hand and it should do the same. Smile, and it should do the same. Remember, this is YOU, just a different, wiser aspect.
At this point you will be free to ask questions and attempt communication. It will take time to develop the concentration you need for a long session of meditation and self communication. Right now it is just important that you being to acknowledge your higher self and allow it to become a more dominant part of your psyche. Don’t be surprised if you start receiving messages through dreams from yourself!