The third state of consciousness is Self-Remembering or Self- Consciousness, or Self-Awareness. It is usual to consider that we have this state of consciousness, or that we can have it if we want it. Our science and philosophy have overlooked the fact that we do not possess this state of consciousness and that we cannot create it in ourselves by desire or decision alone.
The fourth state of consciousness is called the Objective State of Consciousness. In this state we can see things as they are. Flashes of this state of consciousness also occur in us. In the religions of all nations, there are indications of the possibility of a state of consciousness of this kind which is called ‘Enlightenment’ and various other names, but which cannot be described in words. But the only Right Way to Objective Consciousness is through the development of Self-Consciousness.
Maurice Nicoll, “Notes on Different Qualities of Consciousness” in Psychological Commentaries on the Teaching of Gurdjieff and Ouspensky (Vol. 4, p. 1244)
Working Note: For Today’s Inner Effort
Orientation: See that self-remembering does not come by wish or decision.
What to Notice:
Saying inwardly “I will be conscious” and immediately losing it.
Imagining you are aware when you are not.
Moments where you think you are present but are carried by thoughts.
The gap between intention and actual state.
Forgetting yourself even while trying to remember.
Work Effort for Today:
Make a small, quiet effort without announcing it inwardly.
Try to remember yourself for a few seconds only.
Do not expect a result.
Begin again when it is lost.
Remember: Self-remembering does not come through wish or imagination.
