Session Seven
On Detachment
Pages 107-124
If we want to plumb the depths of ourselves and of God then detachment is the way to do it. (Cyprian Smith)
Detachment is to totally discontinue self-serving behavior and thus to let go of all creatures, that is, anything that is less than or other than God.
At first glance this teaching seems like counsel to retreat from the world to be alone with God. Not so! That would be TOTALLY self-serving.
Detachment as Ekchart teaches it is to finally move freely in the world helping where help is needed unattached to outcomes, possessions and consolations. This stance allows one to move freely in the natural spaciousness of life in time receptive to “the present moment and whatever it contains.” (Smith)
Relinquishment of selfish desire in detachment makes one ready and receptive to God’s call on our lives from moment to moment. If you’re called to engagement with the world and activism, then detachment will help you work at a deeper level. Trouble is you’ll have to detach from outcomes which many active people don’t want to do.
After the “Fall” humans became attached to living life on our own terms. Detachment is letting go of self-will and all the determinations we’ve come up with on our own and surrendering fully to God’s will. Teresa’s teaching that humility and a sincere desire that my will be united to God’s will are the most important things dovetails nicely with Eckhart’s teaching on detachment.
Remember, materiality is the point. God put the universe together on purpose. He put you here and all the rest of us here on purpose. Therefore detachment is not going to lead you away from the joys and sorrows, hurts, hurdles, and high points of life. Quite the opposite detachment sets you up to be fully free and receptive to God leading you into an active engagement with life sans your ego’s agenda that you might love all creation from a deeper place with God.