Enlightenment is often perceived as a profound, elusive state that is difficult to attain, yet some argue that its essence—being present and mindful in the moment, free from fear, negative judgment, and the cyclical pattern of thoughts and emotions—is accessible and can be cultivated with practice. The process of breaking free from this loop, while requiring effort, can be facilitated through exercises designed to increase presence of mind.
With repeated practice and increasing ability to maintain this presence of mind, one may experience a sense of well-being that could be described as enlightenment. However, this state is not permanent and requires ongoing practice to sustain.
While enlightenment may provide a sense of peace and detachment from the habitual thought-feeling loop, it does not encompass all aspects of personal growth. Character development, problem-solving, and navigating the practical challenges of life are distinct from the state of enlightenment. For example, even dedicated monks, who spend hours in meditation and might be considered enlightened, must take practical action to protect themselves and their communities when faced with external threats.
Moreover, enlightenment does not automatically impart all forms of knowledge or skills; these must be learned and experienced. Being enlightened on one particular day does not exempt an individual from the need for continuous practice to maintain that state; without it, one is likely to revert to the default human condition of worry, anxiety, and self-centric behaviors.
In summary, while enlightenment in the sense of present-mindedness and emotional equilibrium may be more accessible than often thought, it is not a panacea for all of life's complexities and requires dedicated practice to sustain. Personal development in other areas remains a separate, ongoing journey.