The way in which a spiritual awakening unfolds is unique for each person. Varied experiences or observed phenomena have been described differently by a number of people. What is common to all of these noticed conditions is that they are impermanent.

But, in particular, what is common to all experiences is that they occur within our awareness. The awareness, of what is occurring, does not itself have any particular interest in, or concern about, whatever it is which is appearing in it. While all of the experiences and phenomena come and go, the awareness of them remains constant.

Phenomenal experiences do not occur in our deepest sleep: whatever awareness is present, at such time, is empty awareness. It is that same fundamental awareness which continues to be aware of whatever appears in awareness during the waking and dreaming periods. This awareness does not come and go, as does anything which appears within it.

Whatever response or reaction is noticed concerning observed phenomenon or experience is also occurring within this condition of impartial awareness. These various developments too come and go, while the awareness of appearances remains constant and unaffected by whatever is viewed. Each night, in our deepest sleep, the slate is erased, awareness is emptied.

Therefore, whatever appears on the slate, from day to day, has no lasting importance. Present in awareness will be experiences and responses to experiences. That fundamental element of your being which is aware of every experience and response will continually be untouched by any development, day after day after day.

Spiritual awakening concerns itself with that which is lasting, rather than what is ephemeral.