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Discernment

Once you develop discrimination in a true and positive way, you have begun the journey toward greater peace and unity. You have then also laid the mental foundation for developing discernment which takes us into deeper union with others and life.

Discernment is a sense in the higher mind and therefore part of soul. Because of that it is often referred to as spiritual discernment. Like discrimination, it also involves understanding, but a more profound sensitivity than discrimination. This part of mind is capable of thinking in abstract terms, and is therefore not restricted to the form world or to ideals as forms alone. It can grasp ideals as qualities. The higher mind relates to universals, abstractions and inner reality. With it we are able to relate to the essence of things, based on the identification we are able to make with our own essence, or soul.

Discernment is the mental correspondence of smell. It is the mental ability to know what something is – i.e., knowing its soul.

Spiritual discernment enables us to relate to the universal or unitive energy behind external reality. With it we can perceive fundamental (universal) truth, ideals, archetypes and the formless source or cause of things. In its further development, it enables us to accurately discern the sources or causes of all impressions on the astral/emotional body and all ideas that enter the mind.

Discernment enables us to value all things, no matter how diverse. The soul perspective gives the insight to see the unity behind the diversity, and to recognize the contributions that diversity gives. We appreciate the diversity of ideas, of actions, of ways of being, of all things. We see diversity as contributing to the beauty of life and the enrichment of culture and relationships. This understanding gives rise to tolerance and acceptance. It motivates us to empower others.

Through study, learning and reflection, one can develop the ability to differentiate between illusion and reality, as well as between different grades and kinds of reality. The fundamental difference between discrimination and discernment is one of depth and inclusiveness. This is also the basic difference between personality mind and soul mind.

Discernment can be developed by such things as:

• Looking beyond the form to sense the soul of the person, thing, situation or reality.
• Perceiving the unique beauty of people and things, regardless of whether or not you like them.
• Valuing the contribution that each person and thing gives to the life around them whether or not their presence or action appears to be positive or negative.
• Learning about the multi-dimensional nature of reality and then opening to experience it.
• Understanding the purpose for each thing, action, person or situation.
• Empowering and supporting others to fulfill their purpose.
• Meditating and reflecting on the soul within, and opening to its presence.
• Discovering the soul meaning or greater meaning of experiences.
• Using your mind to create thoughts that reflect universal ideas, archetypes and values to enhance and serve the life around you.
• Express beauty, truth and goodness in whatever ways you can.

This important sense, discernment, is not a gift of the spirit, nor does it develop without attention. It comes gradually into functioning more and more effectively as you use your mind appropriately and activate the soul energies as they express through the mind – both rational – with discrimination – and abstract. Keep in mind that the right use and development of discrimination precedes the unfolding of spiritual discernment.

Exercises: 1. Take the above ideas on developing discernment and write down practical things that you will do to develop this vital sense within you. This is like your mental exercise regimen that you will do daily, weekly and often for as long as you choose to do so. 2. Notice how using the mind alone – even the higher mind – does not bring greater unity unless the heart is also equally involved. At a soul level understanding and unity always imply unconditional love.

This is one of 150 Soul Perspective articles. For more articles visit Soul Perspectives Index.

Andrew and Bonnie Schneider are now offering personal interactive email coaching for the 4 Level Soul Journey program. Connect weekly with Andrew and Bonnie on how to develop soul consciousness. Read more about this personal coaching from Andrew and Bonnie Schneider by clicking here.