Michael Singer - Understanding the Source of Will

Quick Overview

Willpower, or volition, is the fifth, unacknowledged fundamental force in the universe, distinct from the four physical forces, stemming from the inner seat of consciousness that notices thoughts and emotions, and its proper use involves learning to let go of stored negative experiences rather than fighting them, which allows consciousness to remain centered and move energy upward through the spiritual centers.

Key Points: The speaker posits a fifth fundamental force beyond electromagnetism, gravity, strong nuclear, and weak nuclear forces: Willpower or Volition, which is the inner force allowing one to cause things to happen solely through decision. Psychological patterns rooted in learned experiences determine thoughts and emotions, leading to automatic behavior, but individuals possess willpower capable of rising above these patterns, as evidenced when someone chooses not to yell or chooses to apologize despite internal resistance. A perfectly evolved or master being remains "centered" in their seat of consciousness, allowing disturbing energies like anger to pass through without attachment, described as "writing on water." The state of being "not centered" or "lost it" occurs when consciousness is overwhelmed or drawn into powerful thoughts or emotions, effectively losing the witness state. Spiritual growth requires learning to use will to let go of stored negative experiences and patterns, rather than using will to suppress them, because holding onto pain ensures it returns. The mind screens are cluttered with superimposed past experiences, preventing pure perception; seeing something clearly, like the Zen monk seeing 'just tree,' signifies an empty mind where external input passes through without triggering internal reactivity. Willpower is defined as focused consciousness, and by moving away from focusing on stored inner 'rattlesnakes' (past hurts) or desires, consciousness expands, leading to compassion, which is understanding another's stuck state without relating it back to oneself.