Conversations with Hir: Layers

I approach you with the quest of my existence.

“You are the answer.  Look within yourself,” you usher.

I seek your hand to hold.

“No! This is your ocean. 

I cannot come along,” you refuse.

I am disappointed.

Yet, hold my breath and take a plunge.

The surface is filthy.

I realize I don’t see me.

On the surface is the influences of academic/professional pursuit;

Next up is the influences of social requirements;

Deeper down is the influences of moral conditioning;

Underneath is the influences of religious loyalty;

(wrapped in claims of spirituality)

All modulated with the influences of filial piety;

Each layer blended into each other,

All muddled up to form a garbage tank.

I am breathless and return to the filthy surface.

You are still standing, sporting a smile.

“I am still puzzled,” I tell you, frustrated with the fruitless effort.

“You already have your answer,” you reply.

I am tempted to walk out in protest.

You hold me gently and speak

In the most benevolently baritone voice I have ever heard:

“Find ‘you’ amidst this layered heap.

The more you find ‘you’, the more the heap will disappear.

Until all you will see is an infinite transparent sheet,

Where You and you will merge!

And all your answers will clearly emerge”