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."

Exploring the Concept of ‘The Absolute’

In Philosophy and Spirituality

The notion of ‘The Absolute’ is a profound and enigmatic concept that has intrigued philosophers, theologians, and spiritual seekers for centuries. At its core, The Absolute represents the ultimate reality or truth that transcends ordinary understanding. It is often described as the ever was, the ever is, and the ever shall be, encompassing the past, present, and future in a singular, unified existence.

This concept is not confined to any one religion or philosophical system. It is found in various forms across different cultures and spiritual traditions. In Hindu philosophy, it is known as Brahman, an unchanging, infinite, immanent, and transcendent reality that is the source of everything. Brahman is the ultimate cause and foundation of all existence.


In Buddhism, particularly in its Theravada tradition, the concept of Anatta or ‘non-self’ echoes a similar idea. Anatta suggests that living beings have no unchanging, permanent self, soul, or essence. It points to a kind of Absolute that is devoid of individual identity, yet underpins the nature of existence.

Similarly, in Islamic theology, Allah is the Absolute, encompassing all attributes and beyond all human understanding. Allah is the ultimate reality, creator, and sustainer of the universe, beyond all temporal and spatial limitations.


In Christian mysticism, the term ‘God’ often transcends the anthropomorphic deity figure, representing instead an Absolute that is the ground of all being. This idea is also seen in other forms of monotheism and panentheism, where God is understood as both immanent and transcendent, existing within and beyond the universe.

The concept of ‘The Absolute’ also finds a parallel in Western philosophy, particularly in the idea of Absolute Monism. This philosophy posits that there is only one underlying reality, and all diversity and plurality we observe are merely manifestations of this singular existence.


At the heart of these diverse interpretations is a common thread: The Absolute is the ultimate reality, beyond the grasp of human thought and language, transcending our limited perceptions of time and space. It is a concept that challenges us to look beyond the material and ephemeral world, urging us to ponder the mysteries of existence and the universe.

In exploring ‘The Absolute,’ we delve into the deepest questions of life and existence. It’s a journey that takes us beyond the boundaries of conventional thought, into the realms of spirituality and metaphysical contemplation.

Morgan O. Smith

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

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith

The Constant Love in an Impermanent World

In the ever-shifting tapestry of life, there lies a profound paradox: a love that never changes, yet changes all things. This notion invites us to ponder the intricate dance between the permanent and the impermanent, the constant and the transient.

At its core, this concept suggests that there is a form of love – deep, enduring, and unyielding – that remains steadfast amidst the ceaseless flow of change that characterizes our existence. This love does not falter as circumstances evolve or as time marches on. Instead, it stands as a beacon of constancy in a sea of flux.


But how can something that never changes become a force for change? The answer lies in the transformative power of unwavering love. This form of love acts as a nurturing ground, a sort of fertile soil from which the seeds of change can sprout and grow. In its unchanging nature, it provides the stability and security necessary for transformation and growth.

Moreover, this unchanging love teaches us about the nature of permanence itself. In a world where everything seems impermanent – where lives, thoughts, and feelings are transient – the enduring quality of true love suggests that there is something more profound at play. It implies that beneath our ever-changing reality, there is a bedrock of permanence, a foundational truth that anchors everything else.


In embracing this kind of love, we learn to appreciate the beauty of impermanence. We understand that change is not just an inevitable part of life, but also a necessary one. Change allows for growth, evolution, and the emergence of new possibilities. And through the lens of unchanging love, we come to see change not as something to fear or resist, but as something to welcome and embrace.

In essence, the paradox of a love that never changes yet changes all things invites us to reflect on the deeper truths of our existence. It challenges us to find stability in the constant and to recognize the transformative potential in the permanent. It is a reminder that in the heart of what is unchangeable lies the power to navigate and embrace the beautiful impermanence of life.

Morgan O. Smith

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

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith

Blurring the Lines

Embracing the Unity of Nature and the Artificial

Everything that is considered unnatural or artificial is, in fact, part of nature’s expression. This idea, at first glance, might seem contradictory. How can something artificial, a creation of human ingenuity, be natural? But this is where we need to expand our understanding of what nature encompasses.

Nature, in its broadest definition, includes everything that exists in the universe. It’s not just the trees, rivers, mountains, and animals that are typically associated with the term “natural.” It’s everything that occupies the space and time of our universe, including human creations.


The natural flow, the natural order of all things, is a concept that recognizes the interconnectedness and interdependence of all forms of existence. When humans create something, be it a piece of technology, a work of art, or a sprawling city, they are using the resources, the laws of physics, and the intelligence that are all components of this natural world. Our creations are as much a part of the natural flow as a bird building a nest or a tree growing toward the sunlight.

This perspective invites us to look at human impact on the world in a different light. It’s not about segregating what’s natural from what’s artificial, but understanding how our creations align with or disrupt the natural flow. Sustainable development, ecological balance, and harmonious coexistence are key concepts in this narrative. They guide us toward a future where our innovations and advancements are in sync with the natural order, rather than at odds with it.


In embracing this view, we also embrace a deeper sense of responsibility. Recognizing our creations as part of nature’s expression means acknowledging that we are not outside of nature, manipulating it from afar. We are deeply embedded within it, and our actions have ripples that affect the whole system. This realization can empower us to make choices that are beneficial for humanity and all forms of life that share this planet with us.

In conclusion, the artificial is not separate from the natural. It is a continuation, an expansion of the natural world. By viewing our creations as part of the natural order, we can strive for a future where human ingenuity and nature’s wisdom coexist in harmony.

Morgan O. Smith

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

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith

Transcending the Mind

A Journey into the Realms of True Reality

In the labyrinth of human existence, there lies a profound truth that often remains hidden beneath layers of perception and thought: the essence of reality as it truly is, unfiltered and pure. This realization dawns only when the mind transcends its boundaries, stepping beyond the constraints of its conditioned patterns and habitual ways of thinking.

The mind, a magnificent tool for navigation in the physical world, is often shackled by its creations – thoughts, beliefs, and assumptions. These mental constructs, while useful, can also act as barriers, filtering and altering reality as it presents itself to us. The journey towards understanding true reality thus begins with a paradoxical task: using the mind to transcend the mind.

In this transcendence, one experiences a shift in perspective. What was once seen as absolute may reveal its relativity. The solid ground of ‘facts’ might turn into a dance of possibilities. This isn’t a disavowal of logic or reason, but an expansion of them. It’s an acknowledgment that reality, in its vastness, cannot be fully contained within the confines of human thought.

What emerges from this transcendental experience is a sense of profound connection. The boundaries that separate the self from the universe begin to blur. In this state, one doesn’t just observe reality; one becomes a part of it, engaged in a harmonious dance where the distinction between the observer and the observed diminishes. It’s a state where the ego dissolves, and in its place arises a sense of unity with all existence.

This journey is not about acquiring new knowledge but about unlearning what obstructs the vision of reality. It’s about silencing the incessant chatter of the mind to listen to the silence that speaks volumes. In this silence, reality reveals itself not as a concept to be grasped but as an experience to be lived.

As we embark on this journey of transcending the mind, we open ourselves to a reality that is more vivid, more alive, and infinitely more profound than our habitual ways of seeing can allow. It’s a journey from the illusion of knowing to the wisdom of understanding, from the confinement of the mind to the liberation of consciousness.

In this exploration, we find not just the essence of reality but also the essence of ourselves, as beings intrinsically connected to the vast, intricate tapestry of existence. We discover that in transcending the mind, we don’t lose ourselves; we find ourselves in everything.

Morgan O. Smith

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

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith



Navigating the Complexities of Wisdom and Morality

In spirituality and personal development, the distinction between the message and the messenger often becomes blurred. A question that frequently arises is how to approach the teachings of spiritual leaders or gurus who are embroiled in controversies, particularly those involving moral transgressions like sexual assault. The predicament is whether their teachings, often profound and life-changing, lose their value when the teachers themselves fall from grace.

At the core of this dilemma is the age-old debate of separating the art from the artist, the wisdom from the wise. A parallel can be drawn with a simple mathematical truth: “1+1 equals 2.” This statement remains true regardless of who states it – be it a revered mathematician or someone convicted of a heinous crime. The truth, in its purest form, is untainted by the character of its proponent. In the same vein, can spiritual teachings retain their worth even if their source is flawed?

The key lies in discerning the message from the individual. Spiritual teachings, at their best, transcend the personal attributes of the one who delivers them. They tap into a universal truth that is not diminished by personal failings. However, this is not to say that the actions of the teacher are inconsequential. While the wisdom may still hold, the credibility and the moral authority of the teacher to impart these teachings come into question.

This leads to a nuanced approach. One can accept the wisdom that resonates and is beneficial while simultaneously acknowledging and condemning the wrongful actions of the teacher. It is about not idolizing the individual to the point where their failings are ignored or excused. It’s about focusing on the essence of the teachings and applying critical thinking to discern what is valuable and what aligns with one’s ethical and moral compass.

In conclusion, the journey of spiritual growth is inherently personal and complex. It involves navigating through the gray areas where wisdom can be found in imperfect vessels. The challenge is to embrace the truth in the teachings while maintaining a critical awareness of the human fallibility of the teacher. It’s about evolving our understanding of spirituality beyond the confines of idealized figures to a more grounded, discerning, and inclusive practice.

Morgan O. Smith

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

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith


Beyond Duality

Exploring Nondual Experiences and Awakenings

**Introduction**:
In spiritual exploration, nondual experience and nondual awakening emerge as pivotal elements in understanding the nature of consciousness and reality. Often used interchangeably, these terms hold distinct meanings and implications for those on a spiritual path. This blog post aims to unravel the differences and delve deeper into the profound implications of nondual experiences and awakenings.

**Nondual Experience – A Glimpse Beyond the Veil**:
Imagine a moment where all distinctions between you and the world dissolve. This is the essence of a nondual experience. It’s a temporary state where the conventional boundaries of self and other, inside and outside, cease to exist. Such experiences often occur during deep meditation, contemplative practices, or even in spontaneous moments of profound insight. They offer a fleeting yet intense glimpse into a state of unity and interconnectedness, challenging our usual perception of reality. However, as profound as these experiences are, they are transient and do not necessarily result in a permanent shift in understanding or consciousness.

**Nondual Awakening – The Enduring Shift**:
Contrastingly, a nondual awakening is not just a momentary experience but a fundamental transformation. It represents a deep and lasting shift in how one perceives and interacts with reality. In this awakened state, the illusion of a separate self is continuously seen through. This awakening brings about a sustained awareness where separation is transcended, not just in isolated moments, but as a continuous experience in daily life. It marks a paradigm shift from a life experienced through the lens of duality to one of ongoing nondual perception.

**The Journey from Experience to Awakening**:
While a nondual experience can be a catalyst for a nondual awakening, the journey from one to the other is often gradual and requires deep inner work and exploration. The fleeting insights provided by nondual experiences can sow the seeds for the more profound, sustained realization of nondual awakening. This journey involves not only the mind but also the heart and soul, leading to a comprehensive transformation in one’s approach to life and existence.


**Conclusion**:
The exploration of nonduality, whether through transient experiences or enduring awakenings, offers a radical shift in understanding the nature of self and reality. These moments of insight and periods of transformation challenge our conventional perceptions and invite us to experience life beyond the limitations of duality. For those on a spiritual path, understanding and integrating these experiences can be a gateway to a more profound, interconnected existence.

Morgan O. Smith

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

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith

The Souvenir of Spiritual Enlightenment

Beyond the Peak Experience

In the realm of spiritual enlightenment, there lies an experience so profound and transformative that it often defies description. It’s a peak experience, a moment of nondual awareness where the sense of self merges with the universe, transcending the usual barriers of the ego and the mind. Those who attain this state describe it as a moment of absolute clarity, an encounter with the true essence of being. But what happens after this peak experience? How does one integrate this transformative moment into the fabric of everyday life?

The answer lies in the concept of the ‘souvenir’ of spiritual enlightenment. This souvenir is not a physical object, but a subtle, yet profound change within the individual. It’s the lingering essence of the experience, a change in perception and understanding that remains long after the peak moment has passed. This souvenir is a reminder, a glimpse of the infinite that we carry back into our ordinary lives.


This souvenir manifests in various forms. It might be a deepened sense of peace, a newfound ease in dealing with life’s challenges, or a pervasive feeling of connectedness with all things. For some, it’s a shift in values and priorities, leading to a life more aligned with inner truth and compassion. For others, it’s an ongoing journey of self-realization and growth, a path that continuously unfolds with each new insight and understanding.

The phenomenon of spiritual enlightenment itself is vast and incomprehensible, which cannot be fully grasped or retained by the finite human mind. In this light, the souvenir we bring back is not the entirety of the experience, but a fragment, a taste of the infinite that changes us in subtle and profound ways.


To integrate this souvenir into daily life requires patience, awareness, and a willingness to continue the inner journey. It’s about maintaining an openness to the lessons and insights from this transformative experience. It involves embracing the present moment, living with mindfulness and heart, and allowing the essence of the experience to guide and inform our actions and choices.

In conclusion, the nondual peak experience of spiritual enlightenment is a transformative journey that leaves us with a lasting souvenir. This souvenir, though a mere fragment of the vastness of the experience, has the power to profoundly alter our perception, guiding us towards a life of greater awareness, compassion, and connection. As we navigate the complexities of life, this souvenir becomes a beacon, illuminating our path and reminding us of the deeper truths of our existence.

Morgan O. Smith

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

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith

Snow as Sand

The Sahaja Perspective on Finding Paradise in the Everyday

In our spiritual journey, the quest for enlightenment often leads us down paths of deep contemplation and profound realizations. One such metaphor that encapsulates this journey is the concept of seeing snow from a blizzard as sand from a tropical paradise, a core principle of Sahaja, an ancient philosophy rooted in the pursuit of natural simplicity and spontaneous spiritual awareness.

Sahaja teaches us that the world around us, often perceived through the lenses of our preconceived notions and cultural conditioning, holds a deeper, more intrinsic beauty that is akin to paradise. This metaphor, seeing snow as sand, is not about the physical transformation of elements but a radical shift in perception. Just as snow and sand are vastly different in their physical properties, they can represent the dualities of our life experiences – cold and warm, transient and permanent, harsh and soft. However, Sahaja invites us to look beyond these dualities and see the underlying essence, which is pure, unchanging, and blissful.


This transformative perception is not an overnight occurrence but a gradual awakening. As we embark on our spiritual quest, we learn to peel away the layers of our conditioned views, much like shedding winter clothes to feel the warmth of the sun on our skin. The snow, with its cold and aloof nature, symbolizes the challenges and hardships we face in life. In contrast, sand, warm and inviting, represents the ultimate state of contentment and joy. Through Sahaja, we learn to embrace both with equanimity, understanding that paradise is not a distant land to be reached but a state of mind to be realized.

In essence, the philosophy of Sahaja teaches us that paradise is all around us, waiting to be discovered in the mundane, the ordinary, and even in the challenges. It is in the laughter of a child, the quietude of a snowy night, the resilience of a blooming flower in the desert, and the vastness of a starlit sky. It reminds us that every moment is an opportunity to experience the divine, to see the extraordinary in the ordinary.


As we journey through life, let us remember that the snow is also sand, and in every grain of our experiences, paradise awaits. This realization is the essence of Sahaja – seeing the world not as it appears, but as it truly is, an endless expanse of beauty, joy, and peace.

Morgan O. Smith

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

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith

The Imperfection of Spiritual Gurus

Embracing Humanity in the Pursuit of Enlightenment

In the realm of spiritual enlightenment, the figure of the guru often looms large – a beacon of wisdom, a guide towards self-realization. Yet, amidst the reverence and idealization, a fundamental truth often remains unacknowledged: no spiritual guru is perfect. This paradox lies at the heart of a deeper understanding of spiritual growth, where perfection is not a destination, but a journey of constant evolution and self-awareness.

The Dual Nature of the Guru

The guru, in their essence, embodies a unique dualism. On one hand, they are perceived as having attained a state of union with the Self – a transcendental consciousness that surpasses ordinary human experience. This aspect of the guru resonates with a realm beyond the physical, where notions of perfection are redefined in the context of spiritual wholeness.

Conversely, the psychological aspect of the guru is firmly anchored in the human experience. It is a constant reminder that they, too, are subject to the trials and tribulations of the human condition. The guru’s journey is not marked by an escape from humanity but by a deeper immersion into it, embracing its imperfections as part of the broader tapestry of existence.


Perfection is a Process, Not a State

The pursuit of perfection, especially in the spiritual context, is often misconstrued as the attainment of a flawless state. However, this pursuit is more accurately seen as a process – a continual striving for betterment and understanding. The guru, aware of their imperfections, does not seek to eliminate them but to understand and integrate them into their larger spiritual narrative.

This approach demystifies the journey towards enlightenment. It is not about transcending humanity but embracing it in its entirety – with its flaws, contradictions, and challenges. The psychological striving of the guru serves as a powerful reminder that spiritual growth is not about reaching a plateau of perfection but about engaging in an ongoing dialogue with both the self and the universe.

The Metaphor of the Guru

There is something I occasionally mention in my teachings. The saying is that if you hang out with the guru long enough, eventually, the guru will fart. This metaphor, as humorous as it is, holds profound philosophical significance. It symbolizes the inescapable humanity of the spiritual teacher – a reminder that they, too, are bound by the natural laws of existence.

This metaphor serves as a levelling force, bridging the gap between the guru and the seeker. It’s a reminder that spiritual leaders are not infallible deities but fellow travellers on the path of enlightenment. Their wisdom does not stem from their distance from humanity but from their deep engagement with it, warts and all.


Conclusion

In embracing the imperfection of spiritual gurus, we are invited to a more authentic engagement with spirituality. It’s an understanding that enlightenment is not about the erasure of flaws but the acceptance and integration of them into our journey. This perspective fosters a more compassionate and realistic approach to spiritual growth, one that acknowledges the beauty in imperfection and the humanity in the divine.

Morgan O. Smith

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

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith

Embracing the Ephemeral

The Paradox of Change and Nothingness

In the realm of existence, the notion that “Nothing is permanent” stands as a profound truth. This phrase, seemingly simple, unravels layers of complexity upon closer inspection. It posits that permanence is an illusion, a transient shadow in the vast continuum of time. The paradox lies in the statement that the only thing permanent is “Nothing.” This “Nothing” is not a void or absence, but a canvas upon which the tapestry of life is constantly being redrawn.

The permanence of “Nothing” implies that change is the only constant. Change, in this context, is both the action and the result of “nothing happening.” It is the dynamic force that propels the universe forward, ensuring that no moment is identical to the last. This constant evolution is what makes life both unpredictable and beautiful. It challenges our understanding of reality, pushing us to accept that what we see as solid and enduring is, in fact, fleeting and malleable.


However, this notion of change does not imply chaos or lack of order. Instead, it suggests a universe governed by the laws of transformation, where each ending is a prelude to a new beginning. In this perpetual cycle, decay gives way to growth, and destruction paves the way for creation. This eternal dance of creation and dissolution is the essence of existence, a reminder that life, in all its forms, is a journey of continuous metamorphosis.

Moreover, the concept of “Nothing” as a permanent state offers a deeper, more philosophical insight. It invites us to ponder the nature of existence and our place within it. Are we, as human beings, mere transient entities caught in the flux of change? Or do we possess an enduring essence that transcends the physical realm? These questions lie at the heart of our search for meaning and purpose in an ever-changing world.


In conclusion, the statement “Nothing is permanent. The only thing that is permanent is Nothing” is more than a mere play on words. It is a profound reflection on the nature of existence, a reminder of the impermanence of the physical world, and an invitation to seek deeper understanding beyond the tangible. It encourages us to embrace change, not as a force of disruption, but as the fundamental essence of life itself.

 Morgan O. Smith

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

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith