02-13-2009, 01:24 AM
(02-11-2009, 06:48 AM)ayadew Wrote: I find it hard still to see differences in STS and STO in some ways, such as: are you doing service to others for yourself or for others? There is only the subtle difference in intention.
Very good point! The STO entity seves others out of genuine concern for the well-being of the other-self, whereas the STS entity sees other-selves as mere tools to achieve one's own ends. Many STS entities are easily recognizable - the classic stereotypical 'darklord' or corrupt/evil criminal. Less easily recognizable are those STS entities who may appear altruistic on the surface, but are actually manipulating others for their own gain. In those cases, it does appear that only the intention is different...which is further clouded by the realization that other-selves ARE self...so service to others=service to self.
However, the difference, as I see it, is that the STO entity realizes that others=self, while the STS still sees self as separated from others.
Also, and this is an important distinction imo, the STO entity respects the free will of other-selves, whereas the STS entity doesn't care about the free will or well-being of other-selves and will control, dominate, and stomp on anyone to serve self.
Actually, I'm not even so sure that realization of Oneness is even a requirement...I know of lots of religious people who are truly loving towards others, while still believing that they are all separate. They are beginning to recognize others of their own religion as part of their own brotherhood, but cannot recognize those outside their religion...they still see them as 'other.' They may be loving towards those who are 'other' out of duty or because their religion dictates, or to get their ticket to heaven; all of which might still be classified as self-serving even though it may appear STO on the surface...they still see the 'unsaved' as separate and even as the enemy. I wonder if that's where the 51% comes in...