Siddarth Shukla

Duality defines much of the human experience. We measure actions in terms of money, judge them as good or bad, and constantly navigate a world where everything is categorized. This dualistic perspective, while practical for survival, limits our understanding of deeper truths. In contrast, awakening involves transcending these binaries—moving beyond the confines of measurement and judgment to explore a reality that is not bound by them.

An individual who is “asleep” is trapped in a cycle of measuring and judging. This person perceives the world through a lens that divides experiences into categories, such as success or failure, wealth or poverty, virtue or vice. This dualistic approach keeps the mind engaged in a never-ending loop of comparison and evaluation. In this state, curiosity and deeper inquiry are stifled, as the mind is too occupied with maintaining its established judgments.

Conversely, one who is “awake” is driven by curiosity, constantly questioning and investigating the nature of reality. This awakened state involves looking beyond the surface level of existence, seeking to understand the underlying principles that govern life. The awakened person steps aside from the need to measure or judge, embracing the flow of life with an open mind. In doing so, they tap into an effortless power—a power that arises not from force or control but from alignment with the deeper truths of existence.

Discipline and a commitment to duty are essential on the path to awakening. Those who diligently seek truth can gradually step away from the habitual patterns of measurement and judgment. This stepping aside is not an act of avoidance but rather a conscious choice to engage with life in a more profound way. By doing so, one gains the ability to observe the interplay between the mind and the senses without being bound by their dictates.

Our ignorance of what lies beyond duality keeps us attached to it. Perception, by its nature, is dualistic; it divides reality into identifiable parts. For instance, when we see the color red, we immediately label it as “red” based on our learned associations. However, to go beyond duality, one must perceive without immediately resorting to labels and judgments. This deeper seeing allows us to understand that what we call “red” is simply a reflection of certain wavelengths of light—a realization that moves us closer to the truth.

Transcending duality requires us to question our current modes of thinking and perception. It challenges us to see beyond the labels and judgments we impose on the world and ourselves. This essay documents the journey of a 34-year-old man, born in India and working as an engineer in the United States, who is preparing to become a father. He grapples with confusion and delusions, some of which he has already begun to unravel. Understanding his lower, current self—acknowledging the confusions and false beliefs that have kept him “asleep”—is essential for him to connect with his higher self.

True communication with the higher self is impossible without first understanding the limitations of the lower self. The confusions and delusions that bind us to duality must be recognized and transcended. Once we awaken to this deeper reality, we begin to discover excellence within ourselves, moving beyond duality to become one with our true nature. This awakening is not just a philosophical concept but a lived experience that brings us into harmony with the flow of life.