Consciousness

[Ming the Merciful]

Ming, I so agree. I wonder if it is not because of having my life mostly done, it’s much easier to stay in the moment. When you are young it’s more if a challenge  not to project in mind the future while. Living in the present. with its ongoing expectations
Maia is much more of a temptress,

The advantage I had over most people. I was already studying Zen Buddhism, and after my mother died. I was denied possession of the house, (it was left to other people). Meaning, I had to leave the house after the funeral, (and the aforementioned trip to Europe, (and Liberation)). I had nothing, (literally), and so I could concentrate on my "Self-Realization". Not that I considered myself as "Materialistic", because part of my training in Zen was non-attachment, and that came easy. When you have nothing, you have nothing to lose. During my time in Europe, Realization came naturally. The "Concepts" change. If you have no attachments at the beginning, that changes everything. I considered the European trip as a "Walkabout". When I returned from Europe and started living in an apartment, I felt like a "Caged Animal". Not so much because I was living inside, (our of the cold), but the freedom of "Spiritual Liberation". Although now, I live a "Minimalist Lifestyle" and only buy what I need, (not what I want).

Mother Maya, is an untamed temptress that needs to be trained. She can be tamed, although it takes time and patience.

I decide my fate, (thank you). Not Mother Temptress.