About This Lesson

The movie shows the possibility of living in a different state of consciousness embodied by the main character, the grandfather, played by Donald Sutherland. Watching Milton’s Secret allows you to observe the dysfunctional state of consciousness without having to participate in it, without getting drawn into it. This can be a positive experience for the viewer, because observing dysfunction, or suffering-generating behaviour in others, allows us to become more aware of our own dysfunction. Once we build this self awareness, we can enter what Eckhart calls, the witnessing state of consciousness. In this state, you become aware of what your mind is doing. Building this type of awareness of your thoughts is a step towards greater consciousness. Next time you find yourself in a dysfunctional situation, you can ask yourself, is there another way I can respond to this situation? Does this situation have to cause me so much suffering?

1When you are watching TV or a movie, pick a character that you believe is suffering, unhappy or obviously struggling. Can you see what is causing that individual stress and unhappiness?

 

2Can you observe how that character is generating his or her own suffering?

 

3Can you relate any experiences in your own life recently in which you struggled or suffered through? Could you have responded differently without as much suffering?

As a family, discuss the first scene in the movie where everyone in Milton’s family appears to be upset or stressed. Identify what each character is stressed about and brainstorm strategies the characters could have used to help them alleviate their stress.

For example, Milton’s father is on his phone talking about his work when the family is sitting down to dinner. Ask your family members how they would feel about this and brainstorm ways Milton’s father could notice his behaviour and choose to behave in a different way – a way in which he is more conscious about being present in the moment with his family. (eg. He could excuse himself from the conversation on the phone, put it away and be present for dinner with his family).

When you are aware of a dysfunctional situation, you can choose to respond to it in a way that helps alleviate the stress you feel.