Tuesday, March 14, 2006

when we look at optical illusions such as the one in the previous post, we see that things aren`t as they seem. why does a pattern begin to move when we look at it? who`s to say that it doesn`t move of it`s own accord?
who`s to say that it`s moving?
there are those rare people who don`t actually see movement when they look at the image. i imagine that they`re puzzled to hear that some people see the images moving.
so, how does the image actually move?
the surface of the retina, which is the inside surface of the back of the eye, is covered with nerve clusters called rods and cones. these nerves convert light into colours, shapes and movement that the brain then converts back into pictures of the world. i have oversimplified this process for descriptive purposes, but it is an accurate model nonetheless.
when the rods and cones become fatigued, as with the complex pattern in the optical illusion, then other rods and cones are recruited to maintain the image in the mind. these other rods and cones are located on slightly different areas of the retina, giving the illusion of movement to the brain.
this fatigue/re-recruitment process is true of all aspects of the human system, from brain cells to muscle cells. the eye is no different.
our body adapts to fatigue by adjustng it`s self to perpetuate operation.
it`s a good thing too. unless what it`s adapting to is an illusion. then it gets fooled.
so what`s real then?

6 comments:

Dr.Alistair said...

it is important to be unattached to outcomes regarding our actions. not to be irresponsible, but to be able to allow things to occur naturally, without the pain of expectation and disappointment. the opposite of control.
we can then be freer to accept the joyous moments and go with them and to acknowledge the negative that does naturally occur and to let it go.
fun is one aspect........and as important as any other. totally immerse yourself in this fun and allow it to take you where it may.
it is a blessing you accept.
many struggle with the concept of fun, and only take it on as a "necessity" or demand it in thier life as if they`ve earned it.
to force any experience is to watch it blow away as if it is made of smoke.
it goes back to the root of all things. the total unconditional love for the self.
a point at which it is impossible to harm the self.

Dr.Alistair said...

all of our words come out this way when we feel love for ourselves. jane roberts knew this. it couldn`t have happened any other way. this language goes to the heart....from the heart. not just of individuals, but of the entire universe. it is a giant reactor. we merely touch the edge of it in the physical. we brush by and make the merest of contact, but it`s enough.

Dr.Alistair said...

looking into the eyes of another and smiling is powerful........and in some ways a mystical practice. it is a way to cast a spell. it certainly feels wonderful inside too. with respect for the other person there no harm or concern in your actions.
love is only love. it cannot be diluted or transformed. when you take that for yourself then your actions are immpeccable.
humility is the key here. realise your strength and do not abuse it. especially at a time of celebration.....when the demons have been chased away and people`s hearts are open.

Dr.Alistair said...

the strength of your own confidence. not everyone will share your joy. this is a lesson we must adress and learn as we seek enlightenment. there will be thse who will misunderstand your energy. i doesn`t mean you should change your path or approach to others. just be aware of those who don`t share your joy and allow them thier space.
some of those who hold themselves as enlightened will be the first to challenge your position. it`s o.k. it`s thier weakness.
being enlightened is to realise that we do walk on water......like a surfer. when the energy is flowing in harmony we sail along on the crest of the wave, but when the energy gets crossed up, we sink like a stone.
that`s o.k. too.........
know when to light up and when to just simmer. it is important sometimes to be able to tip toe spiritually...............
especially around those who think they are the only one. ;-)

Dr.Alistair said...

i will accept your gracious offer. i appreciate your appreciation for the words that come, not from ego, but from resonance with the joy of everything........
if you wish, e-mail me here; alistair@tools4change.ca and i will send you my adress.
thank you for the kindness.

Dr.Alistair said...

:-) blessings abound!