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Good company

(su-sang-loka)

The player who begins to follow the path of dharma in the third chakra soon begins to find himself in the company of others who are seeking to realize that which is best in themselves. Within this group, the player finds his energies raised by the affirmation that comes from knowing others are seeking the same goal. His third-chakra quest, extending his ego, takes a new turn. This positive association, this good company, is su-scmi>.

For the one who seeks to realize spiritual values within himself, su-sang usually rakes the form of an organic fellowship formed around the person and teachings of a fourth- or fifth-chakra person. Bad company usually revolves around a charismatic third-chakra leader. The player and those in his group cooperate to emulate their teacher, to incorporate what the teacher gives into their own identities.

In good company vices are not extolled. The players, with the aid of the master, serve as mirrors for each other so that both good and bad tendencies can be observed and acted upon. While conceit is the outcome of bad company, compassion develops from good company.

Good company is essential for the player. It provides him with the opportunity to grow away from old identifications in an atmosphere of trust and compassion. Vestiges of first- and second-chakra problems gradually disappear as he learns to confront and work with all aspects of his self.

Good company is the positive side of the third-chakra drive for affiliation and identification. There are no more traps to bar his way to the fourth level of the game, the plane of cosmic mind and balance.