Books Quote by Martin Laird
““The distinction between acquisition and discovery may seem like hairsplitting, but it is important to see that . . . the contemplative discipline of meditation, what I will call in this book contemplative practice, doesn’t acquire anything. In that sense, and an important sense, it is not a technique but a surrendering of deeply imbedded resistances that allows the sacred within gradually to reveal itself as a simple, fundamental fact. Out of this letting go there emerges what St. Paul called our “hidden self”: “may he give you the power through his Spirit for your hidden self to grow strong” (Eph 3:16). Again, contemplative practice does not produce this “hidden self” but facilitates the falling away of all that obscures it. This voice of the liberated hidden self, the “sacred within,” joins the Psalmist’s, “Oh, Lord, you search me and you know me. … It was you who created my inmost self. … I thank you for the wonder of my being” (Ps 138 (9):1, 13, 14).””
About This Quote
Source Book: Contemplative Practice (author's own work), unknown year
Meditation is not about gaining new abilities but about releasing deep resistance, allowing the innate sacred self to emerge and grow stronger.
In simple terms: Meditation frees inner resistance, revealing the hidden self.
Key Takeaway
Practice surrender to uncover inner truth.
Themes
spirituality
self‑discovery
mindfulness
Mood
reflective
serene
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- personal meditation
- spiritual counseling
- psychotherapy
- religious study
Key Concepts
inner resistance
hidden self
revelation
Questions to Reflect On
- How does letting go change your sense of self?
- What inner resistances hold you back?
A Different Perspective
May overlook practical benefits of active skill‑building.
