📖 Introduction
We all want to believe that we are good, kind people who treat our loved ones well. It is easy to convince ourselves that we are doing our best, while secretly harboring complaints, resentment, or a deep concern for only our outward appearance. But what happens when we stop pretending and take a truly honest look in the mirror?
In this post, two individuals share their brave and vulnerable experiences of sincere self-reflection. By peeling back their defensive layers and admitting their self-centeredness, they didn’t just find shame—they uncovered a profound, life-changing sense of gratitude for their families and the world around them.
Read their stories to discover how facing your inner flaws can become the ultimate turning point for genuine happiness.
💬 Story 1: “I felt most sorry and thankful to my mom, older sister, and family”
By Minjeong Seo / Age 22 / Level 1
I first came to the Main Center through my mom’s recommendation. I came with my older sister, and since my mom said she would share a room with my sister, I naturally thought that would be the case. But when I got there, I had to share a room with a stranger who was also meditating. At that moment, I wanted to go home and lost the motivation to do it.
On the first day, I was a bit annoyed. While doing this meditation, they talked about the universe, the moon, and the stars, and taught the meditation method. At first, I just gave it a try, thinking I might be getting tricked. Even though I forced myself to do it, I didn’t really understand, and the time felt so boring.
However, as I looked back on myself little by little, I realized that although I prided myself on having changed positively, it was only on the outside. I was confused about myself and found it hard to admit. But as I kept doing it repeatedly, even though I lost focus and dozed off from time to time, I eventually set my mind to it and it started working out well.
“Looking back at myself, I realized that I only cared about my outward appearance, was conscious of what others thought of me, and cursed at people inside. I felt so ashamed and hated myself for it.”
Also, I thought I had treated the people around me well, but all of that was just my imagination, my own thoughts, and an exaggeration. In particular, I felt most apologetic and thankful to my family, like my mom and older sister. Now, I will always live with gratitude while looking back on myself!!!
#FamilyRecommendation #Gratitude #Skeptical #FamilyMeditation #Reflection
💬 Story 2: “Only now have I sincerely looked back on myself”
By Heewoon / Age 35 / Level 1
It has been almost a year since I started this meditation. Because I learned about this meditation when I was struggling and wandering, instead of looking back on myself—even though it is a self-reflection program—I only pursued feeling comfortable and good. I had never sincerely reflected on myself.
This time, as I looked back on myself, I realized that my entire lived life was nothing but negativity, resentment, complaints, dissatisfaction, hatred, grudges, being guarded, and giving up. Simply put, I only cared about myself.
“This week, as I reflected on myself even a little and gradually subtracted my mind, I felt like I was finally beginning to understand what the human mind is and what the universe mind is.”
Still, I am grateful for being allowed to be here right now, and I am grateful for the method that allows me to discard the minds that make me suffer.
I am a dark human being who did not know gratitude, but I am thankful that there is a place like this that teaches me that gratitude. I am thankful for the method, thankful to everyone who helped me, and thankful to everyone who was with me.
#Gratitude #MindSubtraction #Negative #Reflection
🌱 NEXT STEPS: Clear Your Mind Today
Are you ready to stop pretending and take an honest look at your mind? True gratitude and peace begin when you bravely face and discard your self-centered thoughts. Discover the unexpected joy of honest self-reflection.
👉 Book a Free Introductory Session at Santa Clara Meditation
