In Toltec wisdom, the Fifth Agreement shines as a beacon, illuminating the path towards a deeper understanding of ourselves and our roles as messengers in the world. It stands as the pinnacle of Toltec teachings, inviting us to embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery and understanding the three languages. At its core, this agreement encourages us to uncover the essence of our existence, which is, fundamentally, to be messengers of truth.
Every word we utter carries weight, for we are constantly delivering messages through our speech. Yet, the clarity and authenticity of these messages can be compromised when we speak without full awareness. This is where the Fifth Agreement steps in to guide us. While the preceding Four Agreements lay the foundation for personal growth and self-awareness, the Fifth Agreement elevates our consciousness, urging us to become vigilant custodians of our words and the messages they convey.
The Fifth Agreement is the bridge that leads us beyond the realm of mere symbology. It empowers us to take full responsibility for every word we speak, recognizing that our words have the potential to shape our lives and those of others. It liberates us from the grip of symbols and unlocks the extraordinary power of the artistic creator dwelling within each of us. This agreement beckons us to become the architects of our reality, forging a profound connection between the spoken word and our authentic selves.
Messenger Training: The Angel Within
The term ‘angel’ has deep roots in human culture and spirituality. Originating from the Greek word ‘angelos,’ which translates to “messenger,” it signifies a profound aspect of our existence. In essence, we are all messengers. We bear messages within us, whether consciously or subconsciously, and we impart these messages to the world around us.
However, it is essential to clarify that the concept of angels as commonly depicted in religious iconography, with ethereal wings and divine missions, represents a symbolic representation. In the Toltec tradition, angels are not celestial beings but messengers of a different kind – messengers of truth and life.
The realization that we are all messengers of this truth is the first step on the path to messenger training or, as it can be referred to, angel training. This awareness dawns upon individuals who recognize the profundity of their existence and the responsibility that comes with delivering messages to the world. It is an acknowledgment that we are, in a sense, the “angels” of our own lives, bearing the responsibility of sharing messages that reflect truth, love, and authenticity.
Unveiling the Messengers: A World of Disarray
To understand the concept of messengers and their various roles, it is essential to recognize that there is a prevailing language that all humans inherently speak – the language of gossip. This language is ubiquitous, transcending cultural and linguistic boundaries. It is the most accessible and instinctive means of communication for humans.
The language of gossip is inherently flawed, marked by distortions and biases. It is a language rooted in the self, where individuals predominantly gossip about themselves, their experiences, and their perceptions of others. When we engage in gossip, we often perpetuate untruths, create misunderstandings, and contribute to the discord in our interactions.
What makes this language particularly pernicious is that it is also the language of victimhood, injustice, and punishment. It thrives on falsehoods and thrives on the suffering of those ensnared by its web. Consequently, it creates a metaphorical “hell” where lies reign supreme.
The Language of the Warrior
The journey of becoming a conscious messenger involves progressing beyond the limitations of the language of gossip. As we evolve on this path, we encounter the language of the warrior – a language marked by a delicate balance between truth and falsehood. Here, our awareness becomes a determining factor in the messages we deliver and receive.
The language of the warrior represents a significant improvement over the language of gossip. It is a language in which individuals occasionally speak the truth but may also succumb to the allure of falsehood, depending on their level of awareness. The warriors navigate a dynamic landscape where they oscillate between heaven and hell, metaphorically speaking.
In the realm of the warrior, individuals have the capacity to believe both in truth and lies. The power of belief is a pivotal element of this language, and it signifies that symbols still exert significant influence over their perception of reality. Warriors possess the ability to transition between different dreams or states of being. At times, they find themselves in states of bliss and enlightenment, akin to heaven. Yet, they can just as easily descend into states of confusion, conflict, and suffering, akin to hell.
This fluidity between truth and falsehood distinguishes the language of the warrior from the language of gossip. However, it is crucial to understand that this language still operates within the confines of symbols and beliefs, albeit in a more balanced and conscious manner. Warriors are, in essence, individuals who navigate between different dreams, often seeking to transcend the limitations imposed by the symbols of their culture and upbringing.
The Language of Truth: The Artistry of the Dream Master
Beyond the language of the warrior lies the language of truth, the pinnacle of communication. In this rarefied realm, words become sparse, for here, individuals recognize that symbols are their own creations. They understand that they are the authors of meaning, responsible for infusing symbols with the depth of their own truth.
In the domain of truth, the concept of belief undergoes a profound transformation. Belief is no longer a fluctuating force subject to external influences. Instead, it becomes an unshakable awareness of one’s creative power over symbols. Those who speak the language of truth embrace their roles as artists of existence, crafting messages with impeccable precision and purpose.
The language of truth transcends the confines of falsehood, leaving no room for deception or distortion. It is a language of profound authenticity, where individuals are acutely aware of their inherent creativity in shaping their reality. This language is, in essence, the domain of the dream master, the artist who has mastered the dream of life.
Do-Re-Mi: The Language of the Dream Master
Within the language of the dream master, symbolized by the harmonious notes of Do-Re-Mi, resides a state of profound resonance and inner harmony. This language embodies the essence of being present, of living in the moment without the incessant chatter of the mind.
In this state, the mind finds serenity as it succumbs to the soothing melodies of the heart. The dream master is well aware that even the internal symphony they experience is a dream – a beautiful distraction that diverts the mind’s tendency to fabricate narratives and stories.
In this state of presence, individuals embrace their ability to tell stories and communicate with others through shared symbols. However, these symbols are wielded with a heightened level of consciousness. The dream master can focus their attention on symbols to facilitate effective communication and understanding with others.
While they have the capacity to engage with symbols, dream masters remain acutely aware of the limitations inherent in language and symbols. They understand that words and stories are merely tools for conveying meaning and that the real essence of communication transcends linguistic constructs.
This recognition liberates them from the confines of ordinary human communication, allowing for a deeper connection with others based on authentic presence.
Reflecting the True Self: A Mirror to Others
While dream masters may embrace the power of silence and presence, they do not forsake the ability to engage in meaningful interactions with others. They approach these interactions with a profound sense of presence and empathy, recognizing the true essence of those they engage with.
In their conversations, dream masters listen attentively to the stories of others. They do so without judgment or preconceived notions, understanding that each individual carries their unique narrative. By actively listening, dream masters gain insights into the inner worlds of those they engage with, often seeing facets of the individual that even the speaker may not be fully aware of.
Dream masters have the ability to perceive the real essence of others – the authentic self that transcends the masks and roles individuals often assume in society. They recognize that behind the complexities and pretenses lies a pure, beautiful presence that is as remarkable as any natural wonder on Earth.
Messenger from Birth: The Miracle of Presence
The journey of becoming a conscious messenger begins long before birth. As infants, we arrive in this world bearing the message of our existence. The joy and anticipation that greet our impending arrival are testimonies to the profound significance of the message we carry.
The moment of birth marks the culmination of this message, as we enter the world and become active participants in the grand tapestry of existence. Even before our first words are uttered, we communicate through our mere presence. We are, in essence, the living embodiment of a message – a message that speaks of life, love, and the potential for growth and connection.
From the instant we emerge into this world, we continue to deliver messages through our actions, expressions, and interactions. These messages are not limited to verbal communication; they extend to our behavior, emotions, and intentions. In essence, every facet of our existence is a testament to the message we bear.
Questioning Our Role: What Kind of Messenger Are You?
Amidst the cacophony of life, there emerges a question that transcends judgment and invites profound introspection: What kind of messenger are you? This query serves as a catalyst for self-awareness, prompting individuals to consider the nature of their messaging – the words they speak and the intentions that underlie them.
It is crucial to understand that this question does not seek to condemn or criticize. Instead, it serves as a gentle nudge towards heightened consciousness. By contemplating this question, individuals can embark on a transformative journey that deepens their understanding of their role as messengers in the world.
Messenger of Gossip and Lies: An Inner Dialogue
For some, the answer to the question may reveal that they have been unwittingly ensnared in the language of gossip and lies. They may have been comfortable perpetuating untruths, indulging in drama, and contributing to the discord in their lives and the lives of others. This revelation is not a condemnation but an opportunity for growth and change.
The impact of gossip and falsehood on an individual’s life can be profound. It can lead to a sense of disconnection from one’s authentic self, perpetuating a cycle of victimhood and injustice. By acknowledging this pattern, individuals can begin the process of breaking free from the confines of this language.
Warrior’s Struggle: Navigating Between Realms
Others may find themselves navigating the realm of the warrior, oscillating between moments of truth and moments of deception. In this domain, individuals grapple with the complexities of belief, often vacillating between states of bliss and states of conflict. The language of the warrior allows for both growth and confusion, and it is a space where awareness becomes a guiding force.
For warriors, the question of belief and the power of symbols remain central. They may find themselves questioning the veracity of truths presented to them and seeking to transcend the limitations imposed by societal norms and constructs. It is a path marked by transformation and the quest for deeper understanding.
The Choice of Truth: Embracing Authenticity
The language of truth stands as the ultimate destination on this transformative journey. Here, symbols no longer hold individuals captive. Belief undergoes a profound shift, becoming an unshakable awareness of their creative power in shaping their reality. In the realm of truth, authenticity reigns supreme.
Individuals who embrace the language of truth become artisans of existence, crafting messages with precision and purpose. They are acutely aware of their role as creators of meaning, recognizing that every word they utter carries profound implications. This language is a testament to authenticity, where falsehood and distortion find no foothold.
Conclusion: Choosing the Language of Love
In a world of ceaseless communication, it is imperative to remember that every individual is a potent force in shaping existence. Regardless of the message they choose to deliver, love remains a unifying thread. Self-love and acceptance are paramount, for individuals must recognize the power they wield as messengers.
The symbols they employ are tools for conveying their essence to the world. The question remains: What kind of message will they choose to deliver? Will it be one rooted in truth and authenticity, or one tainted by falsehood and fear? The language of love and authenticity holds the key to lasting happiness and inner peace. In this choice lies the potential for transformative growth and the realization of the messenger’s true essence.
Aseem’s Note: This article covered the concepts and insights described in the thirteenth and final chapter of The Fifth Agreement by Don Miguel Ruiz. In a previous article, we broke down the twelfth chapter Becoming a Seer – A New Point of View.