Author: morganosmith

Morgan O. Smith is a certified meditation instructor and spiritual teacher who has dedicated his life to guiding others in their quest for inner peace. He is the founder of "mind@ease" in the Toronto District School Board and has worked as a provincial youth outreach worker. In 2010, he launched Yinnergy Meditation, a project that fosters emotional, mental, and spiritual growth using audio-induced deep meditation techniques. In 2011, Morgan established the Yinnergy Appreciation Awards to honor young individuals who have made a positive impact on their communities. Yinnergy Meditation has been employed in various settings, such as non-profit events, schools, detention centers, healthcare facilities, and by clients worldwide. Morgan's unwavering commitment to his work and community has earned him numerous awards, including the 2023 R.I.S.E Community Initiatives Award. As a philanthropist, Morgan supports various projects by donating his time and resources to non-profit organizations, grassroots community initiatives, and radio and documentary projects. He has collaborated with institutions like the Institute of Noetic Sciences (IONS) and has presented his findings at the Institute for Consciousness Research (ICR) 37th Annual Conference. Morgan's insights have been featured in podcast interviews, including "Guru Viking" with Steve James and "Waking the Wild." Morgan's insights inspired Arian Herbert's thought-provoking book "The God Behind The God" and he is the author of the book "Bodhi in the Brain."

The Paradox of Enlightenment

Embracing the Limitless Self

In the quest for enlightenment, a paradox often emerges. We strive to reach a state of higher understanding, yet the moment we claim to have achieved enlightenment, we inadvertently confine ourselves within the very boundaries we sought to transcend. This pursuit reveals a fundamental truth about our nature and existence: what we truly are is inherently free from all limitations.

When we label ourselves as ‘enlightened,’ we inadvertently create a new identity, another cage for our boundless spirit. This declaration is a subtle form of ego, a self-imposed limitation that contradicts the essence of enlightenment itself. True enlightenment is not about attaining a label or reaching a destination; it’s an ongoing journey of self-discovery and liberation from all forms of identification.

Consider the concepts of ‘The Self’ and ‘No Self.’ These are often seen as opposing philosophies in spiritual and philosophical discourse. ‘The Self’ suggests a profound connection with a universal, eternal essence, while ‘No Self’ leans towards the idea of emptiness, the absence of a permanent, unchanging self. However, to define oneself as either is to miss the point entirely.


The essence of our being transcends these concepts. It’s not about being one or the other but encompassing and moving beyond both. We are neither solely ‘The Self’ nor ‘No Self.’ Instead, we exist in a state that includes both yet is not limited by either. This state is not a static endpoint but a dynamic, ever-evolving understanding of our true nature.

In this space, we recognize that labels, identities, and even the concept of enlightenment itself are mere tools for understanding, not the ultimate truth. Our true essence is like the sky—vast, boundless, and untouched by the clouds that drift through it. We are the silent observers, the consciousness that witnesses thoughts, emotions, and sensations without becoming them.

To truly embrace this state of being, one must continuously practice letting go of all attachments, identities, and beliefs. It’s a journey of unbecoming, peeling away layers of conditioned thought and societal constructs to reveal the pure, unadulterated essence of our being.


In conclusion, the journey to understanding what we truly are is not about acquiring a new label or reaching a definitive state of being. It’s about the continuous process of freeing ourselves from all limitations, labels, and identities. It’s about recognizing and embracing the boundless nature of our existence, which includes and transcends all dualities.

Morgan O. Smith

Yinnergy Meditation, Spiritual Life Coaching & My Book, Bodhi in the Brain…Available Now!

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith

Nonduality

The Unspoken Reality

In the realm of spirituality and philosophy, few concepts are as intriguing and paradoxical as nonduality. Nonduality, often associated with Eastern philosophies like Vedanta and Buddhism, refers to the idea that the dualistic distinctions we make between self and other, subject and object, mind and matter, are ultimately illusory or not fundamentally real.

The profound irony of nonduality is that any attempt to discuss or conceptualize it inherently contradicts its very essence. Speaking or thinking about nonduality is, by its nature, a dualistic activity. This is because language and thought are tools that rely on differentiation and distinction. They are the media through which we carve out the ‘self’ from the ‘other’, the ‘this’ from the ‘that’. In doing so, they perpetuate the illusion of duality – the very illusion that nonduality seeks to transcend.


This paradox highlights a fundamental challenge in human cognition: our reliance on dualistic frameworks to make sense of the world. From the moment we are born, our minds are trained to categorize and differentiate. This cognitive structuring is crucial for our survival and functioning in the world, yet it also confines us within the boundaries of dualistic thinking.

Nonduality suggests a state of consciousness where these dualistic distinctions dissolve. It points to an experiential understanding where the division between subject and object, observer and observed, ceases to exist. In this state, the egoic self expands into a boundless, undifferentiated whole.

Yet, the path to realizing nonduality is not through intellectual understanding. Since it is beyond the grasp of dualistic thought and language, nonduality is often approached through practices that transcend rational thinking, such as meditation, mindfulness, or other forms of spiritual contemplation. These practices aim to quiet the mind and dissolve the ego, allowing for a direct, non-conceptual experience of reality, unfiltered by the distorting lens of dualistic thought.


In conclusion, nonduality remains an enigmatic yet profoundly significant concept. It challenges us to look beyond the apparent separateness and fragmentation of our experiences and to question the very foundations of our understanding of reality. While it may never be fully captured in words or thoughts, it stands as a powerful reminder of the limitations of our dualistic perspectives and invites us to explore the depths of our consciousness.

Morgan O. Smith

Yinnergy Meditation, Spiritual Life Coaching & My Book, Bodhi in the Brain…Available Now!

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith

The Parrot Syndrome

Echoing Beliefs vs. Experiencing Truth

In a world inundated with information, “The Parrot Syndrome” has become increasingly prevalent, especially in the realm of spiritual enlightenment. This syndrome refers to the tendency to repeat information regarding spiritual enlightenment without genuinely experiencing or understanding it. It raises a crucial question: can true wisdom be imparted through mere repetition of beliefs, or does it necessitate direct, personal experience?

#### The Echo Chamber of Beliefs

The Parrot Syndrome manifests predominantly in spiritual circles where teachings are often passed down from one individual to another without critical examination or personal introspection. Teachers, motivated by a genuine desire to spread wisdom, might inadvertently become mere conduits for these teachings, echoing the beliefs of others rather than sharing insights from their journey. This second-hand knowledge, while it can be informative, often lacks the depth and transformative power of firsthand experience.


#### The Depth of Direct Experience

Contrastingly, spiritual enlightenment that stems from direct experience carries a different quality. It is not just understood intellectually but felt deeply and integrated into one’s being. This experiential wisdom is often more relatable and impactful because it comes from a place of authenticity and personal transformation. It transcends theoretical knowledge and enters the realm of lived truth.

#### The Path to Authentic Understanding

Breaking free from the Parrot Syndrome involves a shift from passive reception of information to active, experiential learning. It requires questioning, exploring, and most importantly, experiencing. When teachers and seekers alike embark on a journey of personal discovery, the wisdom they share is not just borrowed but born out of their life experiences and realizations. This authenticity not only enriches their spiritual journey but also inspires others to seek their truth.


#### Embracing a New Paradigm

As we move forward, spiritual communities need to foster environments where experiential learning is valued over rote repetition. Encouraging personal exploration and valuing diverse experiences over uniform doctrine can lead to a more profound and inclusive understanding of spiritual truths.

#### Conclusion

The Parrot Syndrome, while a common pitfall in the pursuit of spiritual enlightenment, also offers an opportunity for deeper, more authentic engagement with spiritual truths. By prioritizing personal experience over second-hand knowledge, we open the door to a more genuine and transformative understanding of spirituality.

Morgan O. Smith

Yinnergy Meditation, Spiritual Life Coaching & My Book, Bodhi in the Brain…Available Now!

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith

The Paradox of Perfection

Rethinking Good and Evil in Theological Perspective

In a realm beyond human comprehension, where the notions of good and evil blur into a cosmic dance, we find ourselves pondering the nature of divinity and creation. From God’s standpoint, the binary concepts of good and evil do not hold the same significance as they do for us, the sentient beings of his creation. This perspective invites us to delve into a philosophical exploration, especially when viewed through the lens of Christian mythology.

Consider the figure of Lucifer, often depicted as the epitome of rebellion and wrongdoing. According to some interpretations of Christian theology, Lucifer was created as a perfect being by God. If perfection is inherent in his design, then his actions, including those perceived as wrong, could be seen as an expression of this perfection. This raises a profound question: can a being created perfect by an all-knowing deity truly do wrong?


The concept of free will complicates this scenario further. Lucifer’s decision to rebel is often attributed to his exercise of free will. But, if this free will was granted by the same perfect and all-knowing God, then are Lucifer’s actions a deviation from perfection, or are they a part of a divine plan? This paradox suggests that if God is perfect and creates beings with the capacity for perfect expression of free will, then their actions, regardless of how we perceive them, might be in alignment with a broader, divine narrative.

From this standpoint, the actions of a perfect being like Lucifer could be viewed not as a failure or flaw, but as an integral part of a grand design, orchestrated by a perfect deity. This perspective challenges our traditional understanding of morality, urging us to reconsider the concepts of good and evil, not as absolute truths, but as human interpretations of a much larger, divine puzzle.


Such contemplations lead us down a path where philosophical and theological musings intersect, prompting us to question the very foundations of our moral compass. In this cosmic scheme, where does humanity fit in, and how do our notions of right and wrong resonate with the divine narrative?

Morgan O. Smith

Yinnergy Meditation, Spiritual Life Coaching & My Book, Bodhi in the Brain…Available Now!

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith

Where Did God Come From?

The question of where God came from strikes at the core of numerous philosophical, theological, and metaphysical discussions. It’s a question that has fascinated scholars, believers, and skeptics alike for centuries. At the heart of this inquiry lies the paradoxical nature of God’s existence: God is often described as omnipresent and nonlocal, transcending the concepts of space and time that define our physical reality.

To ponder upon where God came from is to delve into the depths of the unknown. It is widely held in many theological beliefs that God is the uncaused cause, the source from which all things emanate. This perspective leads to the intriguing notion that God came from nowhere. Nowhere, in this context, is not a physical location but a metaphorical representation of the absence of space and time – a realm beyond our comprehension.


This idea ties closely with the concept of God being nonlocal. Nonlocality, often discussed in quantum mechanics, suggests that an entity can be present everywhere simultaneously. In spiritual and metaphysical terms, this translates to the omnipresence of God. The omnipresence of God means that God exists beyond physical boundaries, in a state of being that encompasses all existence yet is bound by none.

What makes this concept even more thought-provoking is the idea that the pure essence of God is the absence of everything that exists. This notion posits that God is fundamentally different from everything we perceive in our universe. While our reality is defined by physicality, emotions, thoughts, spirituality, and metaphysical elements, the essence of God is distinct from all these. God, in this sense, is the ultimate reality, a state of pure being that transcends all known dimensions of existence.


Consequently, the physical, emotional, mental, spiritual, and metaphysical presence that we attribute to God are reflections or manifestations of this ultimate reality in forms that are comprehensible to us. They represent how we, as humans, perceive and connect with the divine. Each aspect – whether physical, emotional, mental, spiritual, or metaphysical – offers a different lens through which to understand and relate to the divine mystery that is God.

In conclusion, the question of where God came from leads us not to a definitive answer but to a deeper understanding of the nature of existence itself. It encourages us to explore the boundaries of our understanding and to accept the mystery that lies at the heart of all that is.

Morgan O. Smith

Yinnergy Meditation, Spiritual Life Coaching & My Book, Bodhi in the Brain…Available Now!

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith

The Isolation of Consciousness Expansion

In the journey of personal growth and consciousness expansion, a profound yet often overlooked aspect is the sense of isolation that can accompany it. When you undergo a significant shift in consciousness, your perspective and understanding of the world evolve in ways that might not align with the general populace. This divergence can lead to a feeling of being solitary on your path, especially when trying to share your thoughts and experiences with others.

Social media, which ostensibly connects us, can sometimes highlight this isolation. You may find yourself pouring your thoughts into posts, seeking some form of validation or connection, only to be met with silence or indifference. The lack of engagement isn’t necessarily a reflection of the value of your insights, but rather an indication of the differing levels of awareness and interest among your audience.

This new stage of consciousness places you in a unique space. It’s a realm where your thoughts and expressions resonate on a different frequency, one that is not always perceptible or relatable to the majority. In this space, your voice may seem muted to the masses, heard and understood by only a select few who are either on a similar path or are seeking something in your words to ignite their journey of self-discovery.

It’s important to remember that this sense of isolation is not permanent nor entirely negative. It can be a catalyst for deeper introspection and self-reliance. The key is to find balance, to seek out communities or individuals who share your level of consciousness, and to continue expressing your thoughts without the sole expectation of external validation. In doing so, you not only nurture your growth but also potentially provide a beacon for others who might be embarking on similar paths.

In this new stage of consciousness, embrace solitude as a companion in your journey. Some of the most profound growth occurs in these quiet moments of perceived isolation. Remember, the depth and value of your insights are not diminished by the number of likes or comments they receive but by the impact they have on you and those few who truly hear them.

Morgan O. Smith

Yinnergy Meditation, Spiritual Life Coaching & My Book, Bodhi in the Brain…Available Now!

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith

Embracing the Infinite

Understanding Para Brahman

In the realm of spiritual exploration and philosophical contemplation, the concept of Para Brahman stands as a profound enigma. It is a term that transcends the limits of our typical understanding, pushing us into the depths of what might be considered the ultimate reality.

Para Brahman, in its essence, is the embodiment of the formless and the infinite. It is not confined by the physical dimensions we are accustomed to, such as length, height, depth, or width. This absence of form extends beyond the physical, into the realms of emotion, thought, and even the metaphysical. It is devoid of texture, distance, time, space, feelings, emotions, senses, attachments, desires, thoughts, memories, anticipation, smell, temperature, relationships, distinctions, wants, needs, and regrets. This extensive list, however, is not exhaustive but indicative of the boundless nature of Para Brahman.

What makes this concept both intriguing and challenging is the paradox it presents. Para Brahman, while being beyond all these attributes and perceptions, simultaneously encompasses everything that has been mentioned. It is not just the absence but also the presence of all. This paradox forces us to rethink our understanding of existence and non-existence, presence and absence, form and formlessness.


How can something be everything and nothing at the same time? This question lies at the heart of understanding Para Brahman. It compels us to look beyond the dualities that dominate our everyday experiences. In this sense, Para Brahman is not just a concept but an invitation to experience reality in its most unadulterated form.

This exploration is not just an intellectual exercise but a journey toward self-realization. It challenges our deeply ingrained notions of what is real and what is illusion. By contemplating Para Brahman, we delve into a state of consciousness where the distinctions that define our usual experiences dissolve. In this state, we are neither bound by our desires nor limited by our perceptions.

The understanding of Para Brahman brings us to the cusp of spiritual awakening, where the individual self merges with the universal self. It is a state of being that many spiritual traditions aim to realize – a state of pure consciousness, unmarred by the transient nature of physical existence.


In conclusion, the concept of Para Brahman invites us to embark on a journey beyond the confines of our material and psychological limitations. It encourages us to experience the world not just through our senses and thoughts but through a profound understanding of the interconnectedness and the boundlessness of all existence.

Morgan O. Smith

Yinnergy Meditation, Spiritual Life Coaching & My Book, Bodhi in the Brain…Available Now!

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith

The Unforeseen Impact of a Brief Encounter

My Journey to Spiritual Awakening

Introduction: It was a chance meeting in 2006 that altered the course of my life. At an event where I was the emcee, I crossed paths with a young black man named Sanander Aniiuwah, who, to me, embodied the essence of an enlightened being. He stood at average height, his appearance marked by dreadlocks and a possible beard, draped in an off-white robe, reminiscent of a Jesus-like figure, wandering in sandals—or in my recollection, often barefoot, even in the chill of winter. The presence of attractive women by his side only heightened my curiosity about him.

Sanander’s Aura and Philosophy: Sanander was not just an ordinary man; he was a local vendor who used his booth at special events as a platform to engage in deep conversations about Eastern philosophical concepts, such as spiritual enlightenment. Despite having practiced meditation for three years by then, his ideas were beyond my grasp. But one late Saturday afternoon at a black cultural youth event, Sanander introduced me to the teachings of Osho, an unfamiliar name to me at that time. He read a quote that struck me profoundly: “God never created the universe, because the universe is still being created.” This statement resonated with me, sending me on a quest to explore Osho’s works and the broader concept of spiritual enlightenment.

My Path to Understanding: In 2008, everything changed. I experienced what I now understand as a spiritual awakening, finally grasping the ideas that Sanander and Osho had been trying to convey. It was a moment of profound clarity, where concepts like nonduality and the nature of awakening, once foreign and elusive, became clear and meaningful.

Conclusion: Gratitude for a Life-Changing Encounter: Reflecting on that brief interaction with Sanander, I am filled with gratitude. His words, seemingly cryptic at the time, were seeds planted in the fertile soil of my curiosity. They grew over time, leading me to a deeper understanding of spirituality and my path to enlightenment. It was a perfect alignment of time and place that allowed me to receive and eventually comprehend these life-altering teachings.

Morgan O. Smith

Yinnergy Meditation, Spiritual Life Coaching & My Book, Bodhi in the Brain…Available Now!

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith

Everyone Falls Back Asleep After Awakening, But No One Falls Asleep After Enlightenment

In the journey of self-awareness and understanding, there’s a profound adage that resonates deeply: “Everyone falls back asleep after awakening, but no one falls asleep after enlightenment.” This statement, while seemingly simple, carries with it a world of meaning and depth, particularly in the context of spiritual and personal growth.

#### The Paradox of Awakening and Enlightenment

At first glance, the idea of “falling back asleep after awakening” seems counterintuitive. Isn’t awakening supposed to be a permanent shift in consciousness? The truth, however, lies in the subtle difference between temporary awakenings and true enlightenment. Many of us experience moments of awakening — brief glimpses into a deeper reality or a sudden awareness of a profound truth. These moments can be sparked by various experiences: a beautiful sunset, a piece of art, or a moment of deep connection with another person. However, these are often transient, and we find ourselves slipping back into our habitual patterns of thought and behaviour.

Enlightenment, on the other hand, represents a fundamental and irreversible shift. It’s akin to a door that, once opened, cannot be closed again. In enlightenment, there is a permanent transformation of perspective, a sustained awareness that transcends the ordinary consciousness. This state is often described as a deep, unshakable understanding of the nature of reality, self, and existence.


#### The Role of Meditation in Enlightenment

This statement emphasizes the necessity of years of meditation for true enlightenment. Meditation, in its various forms, is more than just a practice of calming the mind. It’s a tool for deep introspection, for peeling away the layers of illusion and ego that cloud our true nature. Through persistent meditation, one can gradually dissolve these barriers, fostering a greater connection with the inner self and the universe.

Meditation teaches patience, discipline, and, most importantly, the ability to observe without attachment. These qualities are essential in moving from fleeting moments of awakening to a sustained state of enlightenment. It’s a journey of continuous growth and learning, where each meditative experience builds upon the last, gradually leading to a profound understanding and acceptance of what is.


#### Conclusion

In conclusion, the journey from awakening to enlightenment is not a straight path. It involves many cycles of falling back into unconsciousness and rising again with a deeper understanding. This process is necessary and valuable, as each fall and rise polishes the soul, preparing it for the ultimate state of enlightenment. The years of meditation are not just a discipline but a devotion to the inner journey, a commitment to uncovering and living one’s truth.

Morgan O. Smith

Yinnergy Meditation, Spiritual Life Coaching & My Book, Bodhi in the Brain…Available Now!

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith

Unveiling Reality

The Journey from Illusion to Truth

In our journey through life, we often come across what we call “illusions.” These are perceptions or beliefs that appear to be real but are not. However, the most profound realization is that these illusions are not mere deceptions; they are, in fact, Truth in disguise.

### The Nature of Illusion

An illusion, by its very nature, is something that deceives the senses or mind. It’s like a mirage in the desert – you see water, but as you approach, it vanishes, leaving you in the stark reality of the desert heat. Similarly, in life, we encounter situations that seem to be one thing but turn out to be another.

But here’s where it gets interesting. These illusions are not just errors or misperceptions. They are gateways to a deeper understanding of reality. When we delve into the nature of an illusion, we begin to uncover the layers of truth that it conceals.

### The Grand Illusion

The concept of the “Grand Illusion” takes this idea a step further. It suggests that our entire perception of reality might be an illusion. This is a theme explored in various philosophical and spiritual traditions. In Hinduism, for instance, Maya is the illusion that veils the true nature of the universe. In Western philosophy, Plato’s allegory of the cave talks about shadows on a wall that we take for reality.

The Grand Illusion is not just a deception; it is a representation of the ultimate truth, albeit in a form that we can’t immediately recognize. This truth is not something that can be easily explained or understood through conventional means. It is something that must be experienced and felt.

### Unveiling the Truth

So, how do we unveil the truth hidden behind these illusions? It begins with questioning our perceptions and beliefs. We need to look beyond what is immediately visible and ask ourselves what lies beneath. This process of inquiry and introspection leads us to a more profound understanding of ourselves and the world around us.

As we peel back the layers of illusion, we start to see the truth in its purest form. This truth might not be comfortable or easy to accept, but it is liberating. It frees us from the confines of our limited perceptions and opens us up to a universe of possibilities.


### Conclusion

The journey from illusion to truth is not a straightforward path. It’s a winding road filled with challenges and revelations. But it is a journey worth taking. For in understanding the Grand Illusion, we come closer to understanding the true nature of our existence and the universe we inhabit.

Morgan O. Smith

Yinnergy Meditation, Spiritual Life Coaching & My Book, Bodhi in the Brain…Available Now!

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith