The Vital Being Within

This talk by Barry Long unfolds around the core theme of spiritual stillness as the way to overcome suffering and live intelligently. He begins by contrasting the shallow appeal of "personal development" with the depth of spiritual truth, which is not about development but about being — being the spirit, the vital being beyond physical action and emotional self. Barry outlines the triadic structure of human existence — the necessary (physical body and action), the vital (eternal, recording being), and the essential (pure spirit or God). He emphasises that real spiritual life is not about improvement or fixing problems, but about aligning oneself with the vital stillness within. This alignment is achieved through presence, by not identifying with the self’s emotional agitation or the past, and by ceasing to reflect on likes, dislikes, or regrets.

The second part of the session touches on personal relationships, society’s dysfunctions, and spiritual intelligence. Barry critiques modern emotional and familial dynamics, especially the loss of love and integrity in relationships, and the consequent rise of neediness and self-doubt. He warns against charity that weakens responsibility and speaks out against institutional dependence. A significant portion addresses practical spiritual living: choosing rightly, not out of desire but from inner necessity; surrendering to life rather than trying to control it; and facing whatever rises from the subconscious with light, not reaction. Through anecdotes, humour, and gentle provocation, Barry urges his listeners to take full responsibility for their lives, surrender to the intelligence within, and above all, to remember: stillness is the way.