Recovering Our Original Unity: The Path to Authentic Being

Thomas Merton's profound assertion, "What we have to recover is our original unity. What we have to be is what we are," invites us to reflect on the essence of our existence. In a world often marked by fragmentation and disconnection, Merton's words resonate as a call to return to a state of wholeness, where our true selves can emerge. This journey toward unity is not merely an abstract ideal; it is a vital necessity for personal and collective healing in our contemporary lives.

To recover our original unity is to acknowledge the inherent interconnectedness of all beings. Merton's emphasis on "what we have to be" suggests that our authentic selves are not something we need to create or achieve but rather something we must rediscover. This process of recovery is deeply spiritual, urging us to peel away the layers of societal conditioning and self-imposed limitations that obscure our true nature. In doing so, we can cultivate a sense of belonging that transcends the superficial divisions that often separate us.

The image / the metaphor

Merton's quote evokes a vivid image of unity and authenticity, suggesting a return to a primordial state of being. The phrase "original unity" conjures a sense of wholeness, a time before the fragmentation of identity and purpose. The verbs "recover" and "be" imply an active engagement with our inner lives, a dynamic process of rediscovery rather than passive acceptance. This imagery invites us to envision a journey inward, where we sift through the noise of external expectations to uncover the quiet truth of who we are.

Diving deeper into the metaphor, we can see that Merton's call to recover our original unity speaks to the universal human experience of longing for connection. The notion of being "what we are" suggests an alignment with our true essence, free from the distortions of ego and societal pressures. This metaphor of unity is not merely about individual fulfillment; it extends to our relationships with others and the world around us, emphasizing that our authentic selves are intertwined with the collective human experience.

In the speaker's tradition

Thomas Merton, a Trappist monk and a pivotal figure in modern spirituality, draws from a rich tradition that emphasizes contemplation and the search for inner truth. His understanding of unity resonates with concepts found in various spiritual traditions, such as the Buddhist notion of sunyata, or emptiness, which teaches that the self is not a fixed entity but rather a fluid expression of interconnectedness. Similarly, the Christian concept of kenosis, or self-emptying, aligns with Merton's call to let go of the ego to embrace a more profound unity with the divine and with others.

In Merton's writings, particularly in "The Asian Journal," he reflects on the importance of transcending dualistic thinking to experience the oneness of existence. This perspective echoes the teachings of mystics across traditions, who emphasize that true enlightenment comes from recognizing the illusion of separation. Merton's insights encourage us to engage with these timeless concepts, inviting us to explore how they can inform our understanding of unity and being in our own lives.

Living the teaching

Consider a modern scenario where Merton's teaching can be applied: a workplace filled with competition and individualism. In such an environment, the pressure to outperform colleagues can lead to a sense of isolation and disconnection. By embracing Merton's call to recover our original unity, individuals can shift their focus from rivalry to collaboration, recognizing that their success is intertwined with the success of their peers. This transformation fosters a culture of support and shared purpose, allowing everyone to thrive together.

Another application of this teaching can be found in personal relationships, particularly during moments of conflict. When disagreements arise, it is easy to become entrenched in our positions, losing sight of the underlying connection that binds us. By remembering Merton's insight, we can approach these situations with a spirit of openness and vulnerability, seeking to understand the other person's perspective. This practice of empathy not only resolves conflicts but also deepens our relationships, allowing us to experience the unity that Merton so passionately advocates.

A reflection

As we contemplate Merton's profound words, we are invited to engage in a reflective practice that asks us to consider our own journey toward unity. What aspects of our lives contribute to a sense of separation, and how might we begin to peel back those layers to reveal our authentic selves? In this moment of introspection, let us ask ourselves: How can I actively cultivate a sense of unity within myself and with others in my daily life?