When we first step onto a spiritual path, we may imagine that we are entering a life of constant happiness and harmony. Yet we soon discover that this journey often calls for endurance, patience, and inner strength. Moving towards illumination, or deeper attunement with the Divine — becoming a clearer channel for the expression of the Cosmic Mind — requires adjustment and growth within ourselves. The sincere seeker learns to embrace this challenge.

As we progress along the mystical path, it may sometimes seem that obstacles increase rather than fade away. Periods of peace and inner stillness can be followed by moments of struggle or uncertainty. Instead of uninterrupted tranquillity, we may encounter phases of dissonance that test our understanding and resilience.

There are many possible reasons for this, far too many to explore in a single article. For now, let us focus on one: the development of psychic sensitivity. Whatever mystical tradition we follow, certain practices naturally heighten our awareness. This is why a balanced and integrated approach is essential.

In early stages of mystical training, exercises may be used to awaken the psychic senses. Practices involving psychic centres, the perception of auras, or the constructive use of sound and vibration — such as the intonation of sacred vowel tones — can deepen sensitivity on both physical and subtle levels.

Challenges of Psychic Sensitivity

As our awareness expands, it may become difficult to interpret what we perceive. Heightened sensitivity can bring powerful impressions, yet our understanding of them may still be developing. Misinterpretations can occur, and for this reason it is helpful to place our experiences within a broader psychological and philosophical framework.

In a sensitised state, we might expect others to perceive reality as we do. This assumption can lead to misunderstanding. Each traveller’s unfolding of consciousness is unique, shaped by their own path and experience.

Every condition contains both positive and negative elements. When viewing a painting, we admire its beauty, yet we may also notice irregularities in brushwork or colour. Likewise, increased sensitivity allows us to perceive both harmony and imbalance within people and situations.

This becomes especially relevant when working with vibratory impressions, such as the perception of auras. Alongside positive qualities, we may become aware of aspects that feel discordant. How we interpret these impressions depends greatly upon our own inner filters — our expectations, experiences, and emotional state.

Many mystical traditions describe existence through the principle of polarity: light and shadow, expansion and contraction. Without contrast, form appears flat and lifeless. Sensitivity therefore reveals both aspects simultaneously.

The difficulty arises when awareness of the negative begins to overshadow recognition of the positive. When we first meet someone, we may notice only their strengths. Over time, we also become aware of their limitations. If we are not careful, our focus may shift so strongly toward perceived flaws that we lose sight of their inherent worth.

Some students attempt to resolve this tension by withdrawing or passing judgement: “This person is not worth the effort.” Yet judgement rarely resolves the deeper lesson. Instead, we are invited to recognise both aspects and seek ways to transform challenging energies into constructive expression.

Discrimination and Progress

Heightened sensitivity alone is not enough for mystical development. Two qualities become essential, each supporting the other.

The first is discrimination — the ability to perceive clearly while maintaining balance. Positive and negative aspects must be held in right relationship, viewed with perspective rather than reaction. Only then can we redirect discordant elements toward a higher aim.

The second is what might be called follow-through. Visualising a goal is only the beginning; we must act with perseverance to bring it into form. This requires acknowledging both the uplifting and the difficult aspects of any situation.

Human nature often resists what feels negative, yet growth asks us to meet it consciously. Following a positive impulse is easy — we flow naturally toward it. Continuing forward while holding awareness of its accompanying challenges requires steadiness and resolve.

At this stage, many seekers encounter difficulty. They may long for an easier path, forgetting that strength develops through engagement with resistance. Experiences — including challenging interactions with others — become catalysts for evolution. Through them, we refine our understanding and deepen compassion.

Understanding and Positive Action

Psychic sensitivity must be accompanied by understanding if it is to support genuine progress. Discrimination helps us recognise the positive within any circumstance and allows it to guide our actions. Determination then carries our realisations into lived experience.

One practical way to embody this principle is to focus on encouraging what is constructive in others. When offering support, it is often more helpful to demonstrate what works rather than emphasising what is wrong. Criticism alone rarely inspires growth; affirmation and example create space for transformation.

A story shared by one member illustrates this beautifully. During a conversation, one person spoke harshly and critically of another. The response they received was simple yet powerful:
“I’m truly sorry to hear that, because I hold the greatest admiration and respect for you and for the work you do.”

In that moment, negativity was met not with opposition, but with affirmation — a reminder that sensitivity, guided by wisdom, can become a force for harmony rather than division.