Welcome to the first episode of “Enlighten Up!” hosted by Morgan O. Smith, a former comedian turned spiritual teacher. In this engaging talk show, Morgan and his co-host Nathan Griffith, also a comedian turned spiritual seeker, explore spirituality’s vast and often complex world. Today, we’re joined by special guest, Gabrielle Bell, an autobiographical cartoonist and spiritual seeker. Tune in as we dive into deep conversations about spiritual awakenings, the commitment required to reach higher states of consciousness, and the experiences that transcend human intellect. We discuss the concept of holarchy versus hierarchy based on the work of Ken Wilber, examine life after death, and debate reincarnation about Parinirvana and Videhamukti. Gabrielle shares her meditative practices, her journey in expressing love and compassion, and the fears she faced after a partial kundalini experience. Morgan introduces Yinnergy Meditation, his original creation designed to foster whole-brain thinking and facilitate mystical experiences leading to spiritual awakening. A lighter note to our profound discussion is Nathan’s rather unexpected question about… lions! Our conversations vary from lucid dreaming to the roles of spiritually awakened individuals in addressing world issues. Join us on this journey toward enlightenment. Discover, discuss, and question all things spiritual. Don’t forget to check out Morgan’s new book, “Bodhi in the Brain,” available now on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Get started with Yinnergy Meditation today: https://linktr.ee/morganosmith Subscribe, like, and share if you enjoyed the episode, and stay tuned for more enlightening discussions. Peace and love!
Dancing with Shadows
The Devil as Society’s Dark Projection
Intro:
As we sail through the oceans of human consciousness, we often encounter tempests that unveil the darker facets of our nature. If the divine represents society’s golden shadow, virtues, and aspirations, could the devil figure embody society’s dark shadow, a reflection of our collective id and repressed instincts? This article plunges into the depths of this unsettling yet captivating hypothesis.
Understanding the Dark Shadow:
Carl Jung posited the existence of the shadow as a component of the unconscious, housing both positive and negative elements that are not integrated into the conscious self. The dark shadow encompasses the negative aspects – our fears, impulses, and darker instincts.
The Devil as Society’s Dark Shadow:
Across cultures, the devil often symbolizes the epitome of evil, temptation, and the darker aspects of human nature. By projecting these qualities onto a devil figure, society externalizes its inner darkness, creating a ‘scapegoat’ onto which it can cast its sins and unwanted characteristics.
The Collective Unconscious and the Id:
Sigmund Freud’s concept of the id complements Jung’s shadow. The id is the instinctual part of the mind that contains sexual and aggressive drives and desires. Society’s projection of the id onto the devil may represent a form of collective defence mechanism, an attempt to deal with the disconcerting aspects of our nature.
The Devil as an Archetype:
In Jungian terms, the devil can be seen as an archetype, a universal symbol that dwells in the collective unconscious of mankind. This archetype manifests in various forms in different cultures, but its core characteristics usually represent the antithesis of societal norms and moral values.
Facing Our Demons:
Recognizing the devil as a projection of society’s dark shadow calls for the courageous endeavour to face our inner demons. Individuals and societies can work towards a more balanced and authentic existence by accepting and integrating these shadow aspects.
Conclusion:
The notion of the devil as society’s dark shadow casts a new light on the traditional narratives of good and evil. It invites us to reflect upon how the figures of deities and demons are not only external entities but also potent symbols of the complexities of human nature. Through understanding these shadows, society stands on the precipice of deeper self-awareness and a more holistic grasp of the human condition.
Morgan O. Smith
Yinnergy Meditation & My Book, Bodhi in the Brain…Available Now!
https://linktr.ee/morganosmith
In Divine Light
Society’s Golden Shadow
Intro:
In a world where the quest for meaning continues to stir the human soul, spirituality and reverence for the divine emerge as quintessential human experiences. But what if the collective admiration and worship of God are manifestations of society’s golden shadow – the unexplored, positive aspects of our shared unconscious? This post delves into the notion that the sacred spaces we turn towards in times of despair or joy are indeed reflections of the inherent greatness within ourselves.
Understanding the Golden Shadow:
Drawing from Carl Jung’s concepts, the golden shadow encompasses the positive attributes within our unconscious minds that we might not recognize. When these attributes are exemplified by an external entity, such as a deity, we project our golden shadow upon it.
God as the Epitome of Society’s Golden Shadow:
The divine figures across cultures are often epitomes of virtues – love, compassion, wisdom, and more. Society’s adoration for these figures could be interpreted as an admiration for the virtues themselves. The deities become mirrors, reflecting what individuals and societies aspire to embody.
Religion as a Path to Self-Realization:
One could argue that the rituals, prayers, and moral teachings of religion serve as vehicles for cultivating the qualities represented by the divine within ourselves. In essence, by worshipping or admiring God, individuals are also venerating and nurturing their own latent potential.
The Challenges:
This perspective might not sit well with everyone, especially those who believe in the transcendental nature of God. Moreover, using religious practices solely as tools for self-improvement might seem reductive. It’s essential to approach this hypothesis with respect for the diversity of beliefs and experiences.
Conclusion:
The notion that society’s worship and admiration for God is a projection of its golden shadow is thought-provoking. It offers a lens through which we can perceive religious and spiritual practices as not just pathways to the divine, but also as avenues to recognize and cultivate the virtues within ourselves. Whether or not one subscribes to this idea, it invites reflection on the profound interconnectedness between the human spirit and the sacred.
Morgan O. Smith
Yinnergy Meditation & My Book, Bodhi in the Brain…Available Now!
Sand Castles of Consciousness
Discovering the Essence Within
Introduction:
In the tranquil tapestry of Eastern philosophy, where contemplation converges with existence, there lies a profound revelation – Everything in existence is composed of Pure Consciousness. Here, Consciousness is not merely an attribute; it is capitalized, symbolizing its omnipresence as the very fabric that weaves through the cosmos. It is akin to an ancient tale of a castle crafted from sand, reflecting that though it may don the guise of a majestic structure, it remains, in essence, sand.
The Sand and the Castle:
Visualize a child meticulously building a sand castle on the shore. The grains of sand, amassed and sculpted, assume the shape of a castle. Does the sand cease to be sand when shaped into a castle? Certainly not. This allegory mirrors the realization that while the myriad forms around us may appear different, they are all permutations of the same unyielding Consciousness.
The Essence of Consciousness:
Consciousness is akin to Brahman in Hinduism or the Tao in Taoism in the Eastern philosophical context. The unchanging, infinite, immanent, and transcendent reality is the Divine Ground of all matter, energy, time, space, being, and everything beyond. Our ephemeral existence is a mere reflection, a ripple in the vast ocean of Consciousness.
Flow of Forms:
Just as a sand castle is subjected to the whims of waves and winds, forms in the material world are in a constant state of flux. The ancient Hindu text, the Bhagavad Gita, illustrates this with the concept of ‘Lila’, depicting the world as a divine play of forms. The Taoist philosophy also reverberates with this thought through the Tao, which flows through and is the inherent nature of all things.
The Inner Alchemy:
One might inquire, how does this realization benefit our daily lives? Understanding that we are not just isolated entities, but integral threads woven into the fabric of Consciousness, can be transformative. It helps us transcend the illusion of separateness and cultivates compassion, humility, and interconnectedness with all beings and the natural world.
Conclusion:
As we embrace the wisdom of Eastern philosophy, let us be mindful of the sand castles we build and the sands that shape them. Let us embark on a spiritual odyssey to unearth the Consciousness within and around us, recognizing that the essence is unchanging, infinite and all-encompassing. Like the sand castles by the sea, our forms are transient, but the Consciousness that shapes us is eternal.
Morgan O. Smith
Yinnergy Meditation & My Book, Bodhi in the Brain…Available Now!
The Singular Thought
Unravelling The Fabric Of Existence
Introduction:
Deep within the cosmos, lies an interconnected web of creation. Many spiritual traditions and contemporary philosophies propose the notion of Nonduality – the idea that everything in the universe is woven from a single thread. This post delves into an intriguing proposition: that every single thing in the entire universe was, is, and will be created with just one thought.
The Essence of Thought:
Thought, in its purest form, is an emanation of consciousness. The ancient sages believed that the universe itself is a manifestation of cosmic consciousness. This single, all-encompassing thought is the seed from which the boundless universe springs forth.
The Nature of Nonduality:
Nonduality implies that there is no separation between the observer and the observed, between subject and object. This interconnectedness suggests that the whole of creation is intrinsically linked to our own consciousness. The singular thought that manifests the universe is also the foundation of our individual thoughts and perceptions.
The Scientific Angle:
In modern times, the field of quantum physics has begun to echo the ancient wisdom of Nonduality. Particles can be in multiple places at once and are deeply interconnected. Some physicists even posit that consciousness itself may be a fundamental aspect of the universe, interweaving thought with the fabric of reality.
The Ripple Effect:
Considering the idea that creation stems from a single thought, our own thoughts take on new significance. Each thought could be seen as a ripple in the cosmic ocean, interacting with and shaping the universe in ways beyond our comprehension. Our thoughts, emotions, and actions might have a more profound impact on the fabric of existence than we realize.
Practical Implications:
If we accept the notion of a singular thought behind creation, how does this affect our daily lives? It could be a call to mindfulness; to recognize the power and potential in our own thoughts. By aligning ourselves with the constructive, compassionate aspects of thought, we can contribute to the positive unfolding of the universe.
Conclusion:
The idea that everything is born of a single thought is a profound and enchanting concept that bridges ancient wisdom with contemporary science. As we navigate the waves of existence, let us be mindful of the ripples we create. The universe, in all its complexity, might just be the echo of one resounding thought.
Morgan O. Smith
Yinnergy Meditation & My Book, Bodhi in the Brain…Available Now!
The Dawn of Syncretic Souls
A Harmonious Unveiling of Eastern and Western Spirituality
Introduction:
In the transcendent tapestry of human spirituality, East and West have often been seen as disparate threads. The West, with its logical rigour and scientific orientation, seems worlds apart from the East’s mystical, inward-focused spiritual traditions. However, in the heart of a spiritual awakening, a resplendent horizon emerges, revealing the unity and complementary nature of these spiritual worlds. This article explores this enigmatic integration, delving into how the confluence of Eastern and Western spirituality can offer a comprehensive and profound spiritual experience.
The Philosophical Underpinnings:
Eastern spirituality, rooted in traditions such as Hinduism, Buddhism, and Taoism, often emphasizes the notions of unity, interdependence, and the cyclical nature of existence. In contrast, Western spirituality, particularly in Abrahamic religions, has been more inclined toward linear progression, individual salvation, and a personal God. Notwithstanding these differences, both sides seek to understand the fundamental nature of existence and the path toward greater fulfillment and enlightenment.
The Awakening Confluence:
The moment of spiritual awakening can be likened to the dawn; the dark night of ignorance recedes as the sun of wisdom rises. In this pivotal moment, the dichotomies of East and West dissipate, as one comprehends the interwoven complexities of existence. The Eastern idea of interconnectedness suddenly harmonizes with the Western emphasis on individual worth, signifying that our individual journey has cosmic interconnected consequences.
Science and Mysticism:
One of the key avenues through which this integration is taking place is the dialogue between science (often associated with the West) and mysticism (a domain of the East). Through disciplines like quantum physics, Western science is beginning to echo Eastern concepts of interdependence and non-duality. The parallels between quantum entanglement and the interconnectedness emphasized in Eastern philosophies are a testament to this evolving synthesis.
A More Comprehensive Path:
By integrating Eastern and Western spirituality, individuals may find a more comprehensive and balanced path. For instance, the Western emphasis on social justice and activism can bolster the Eastern focus on inner peace and equanimity. Conversely, the Eastern practices of meditation and mindfulness can bring a sense of inner clarity and purpose to the Western pursuit of external achievements.
Conclusion:
As the human spirit continues to evolve, the integration of Eastern and Western spiritual perspectives offers a more holistic and enriched path. This synthesis, fully realized in the moment of spiritual awakening, acts as a bridge between dualities, fostering a deeper understanding of the self and the universe. Through this harmonious integration, humanity has the potential to weave a more intricate, compassionate, and enlightened tapestry of existence.
Morgan O. Smith
Yinnergy Meditation & My Book, Bodhi in the Brain…Available Now!
https://linktr.ee/morganosmith
Meditative Practices and the Illusory Nature of the False Self
A Journey Towards Self-Realization
Introduction:
Meditative practices have long been revered as transformative tools in the realm of self-discovery and spiritual growth. They offer a profound pathway for individuals to explore the depths of their consciousness, seeking truth, peace, and liberation. However, beneath the surface lies a fascinating paradox—the false self, which appears as the practitioner, ultimately leads to the revelation of the Ultimate Self, the Ground of All Being.
The Illusion of the False Self:
Within the tapestry of various spiritual traditions, the notion of the false self arises—a deceptive construct born out of our attachments to external roles, labels, and conditioned beliefs. This illusory identity emerges from our tendency to assign significance to transient aspects of our existence, such as social standing, material possessions, and superficial identities. Meditative practices, in their diverse forms, serve as illuminating mirrors, enabling us to perceive the transient nature of the false self and transcend its illusory grasp.
Meditation as a Mirror:
Meditation acts as a reflective surface, offering a clear reflection of the illusory nature of the false self. By turning inward and observing our thoughts, emotions, and sensations without judgment or attachment, we gain a heightened awareness of the ever-changing nature of our experiences. Regular practice nurtures a profound realization—an understanding that our thoughts come and go, emotions rise and subside, and identities shift fluidly. This awakening brings us closer to recognizing that the false self is not a fixed entity but a construct that can be deconstructed through the power of self-inquiry.
The Ultimate Self:
While meditative practices may originate from the false self, they hold within them the potential to reveal the Ultimate Self—the very essence of our being, the Ground of All Being. As we delve deeper into our meditative journey, we begin to touch upon an interconnectedness and unity with the vast cosmos. The boundaries that once separated our individual selves from the external world begin to dissolve, and we catch glimpses of the inherent oneness that permeates all existence. In this expanded state of awareness, the false self loses its grip, and we realize that our essential nature transcends the limitations of individual identity.
Integration and Transformation:
The true essence of meditative practices lies in the interplay between the false self and the Ultimate Self. The false self, while illusory, acts as a vehicle for the exploration and transformation of consciousness. Engaging with meditative practices allows us to intimately observe the patterns and tendencies of the false self, ultimately leading us to transcend its limitations. By embracing the false self as a catalyst for growth, we integrate its lessons and move closer to the realization of our true nature—the Ultimate Self.
Conclusion:
In the realm of meditative practices, the interconnection between the false self and the Ultimate Self invites profound contemplation. While the false self may present itself as real and compelling, it is merely a construct that can be unravelled through the transformative power of meditation. Engaging in these practices propels us on a journey of self-realization, unveiling the essence of our being—the Ground of All Being. Meditative practices serve as bridges, guiding us from the illusion of the false self to the profound truth of our interconnected existence. Embrace these practices, embrace the false self, and embark on the path toward ultimate liberation and self-realization.
Morgan O. Smith
Yinnergy Meditation & My Book, Bodhi in the Brain…Available Now!
https://linktr.ee/morganosmith
The Eternal Now
Enlightenment as the Ever-Present Journey
Introduction:
Time is a mysterious and often bewildering dimension of our existence. Like the fleeting shadow of tomorrow, enlightenment is often thought to be something that is always just out of reach. However, what if the key to enlightenment was not in endlessly chasing it, but in realizing that it is already here?
The Illusion of Tomorrow:
Many of us tend to postpone our happiness or goals for the future. “I will be happy when…” or “I will do that tomorrow,” are phrases we frequently tell ourselves. Yet, as time moves forward, tomorrow remains as elusive as ever. It’s always today. This is a poignant reminder that the present moment is all we have.
Parallel to the Illusion of Enlightenment:
Enlightenment is often perceived as the pinnacle of spiritual accomplishment, a state to be attained in the distant future. However, much like tomorrow, the notion of enlightenment as a destination may be an illusion. If enlightenment is truly understanding and being at peace with oneself and the universe, then it must exist in the here and now.
The Eternal Present:
The Buddhist concept of “Satori” embodies a sudden awakening or flash of insight. It illustrates that enlightenment is not a far-off goal but an ever-present possibility. When we begin to see that the essence of life and self-realization is embedded in the present, the journey toward enlightenment takes on a different texture. It becomes a continuous, unfolding process rather than a destination.
Cultivating Awareness:
The path to recognizing that enlightenment is in the present involves cultivating awareness and mindfulness. By fully engaging with the present moment and releasing our attachments to the past and future, we can find clarity and wisdom.
The Role of Experience:
Our experiences, no matter how mundane, are integral to our understanding. Every moment provides an opportunity for growth and learning. Through mindfulness, we can recognize the sacredness in the ordinary, and see that enlightenment isn’t something distant, but an ever-present reality.
Conclusion:
“Enlightenment is always here” is not just a statement, but an invitation to break the chains of time and enter the eternal now. It’s an invitation to stop searching and start living. Like the enigmatic nature of tomorrow, enlightenment is not something that can be grasped or attained in the future. It is a journey that is happening right now. Every moment is an opportunity for awakening. May we have the courage to embrace the present and recognize the enlightenment that is always here.
Morgan O. Smith
Yinnergy Meditation & My Book, Bodhi in the Brain…Available Now!
The Illusive Dawn
Spiritual Enlightenment and the Story We Live
Introduction:
Each day, as the earth rotates, the sun appears to rise over the horizon, casting its golden rays upon the world. Just like the sun, spiritual enlightenment is an ever-present force in our lives, though it is often perceived as something to be attained. This misconception, draped in the language of our stories, masks the true nature of spiritual enlightenment.
The Mirage of Attainment:
One of the intriguing elements of human nature is the relentless pursuit of something more. In the context of spiritual enlightenment, the journey is often portrayed as a path leading to a destination. However, by framing enlightenment as an end goal, we may be missing its inherent presence in our lives. Like the sun that’s always shining even when it’s out of our sight, enlightenment is not something we acquire but rather realize and tune into.
The Stories We Weave:
Our narratives shape our perceptions and, often unknowingly, our realities. Through stories, ancient wisdom has been passed down, guiding us toward spiritual growth. Yet, these stories can be double-edged swords. As they often depict characters attaining enlightenment, they inadvertently suggest that it is a finite state, achievable through certain actions or thoughts.
Unravelling The Eternal Now:
What if spiritual enlightenment is not something we reach at the end of a strenuous journey but rather an inherent quality of our being that we simply need to recognize? This recognition can be thought of as tuning into a frequency that has always been there. By peeling away the layers of ego, desires, and social constructs, we become more receptive to the eternal now – the ever-present light of consciousness that never wanes.
Practical Steps Towards Recognition:
1. Mindfulness: Engage in practices such as meditation or mindful breathing to bring awareness to the present moment.
2. Detachment: Learn to detach from material desires and social expectations that cloud the true essence of our being.
3. Compassion: Embrace a compassionate lifestyle, recognizing the interconnectedness of all life.
4. Continuous Learning: Engage with philosophical and spiritual texts that challenge and expand your understanding.
Conclusion:
Much like the illusory sunrise, the concept of attaining spiritual enlightenment may be a misinterpretation through the lens of our narratives. Rather than seeking to attain, let us recognize and embody the ever-present light within. By focusing on the present moment, detaching from the material world, and embracing compassion, we can tune into the unceasing glow of our inner sun.
Morgan O. Smith
Yinnergy Meditation & My Book, Bodhi in the Brain…Available Now!
Embracing the Infinite
Unravelling the Unity of Being in Nondual Realization
Introduction:
Nondual realization, a concept deeply rooted in various spiritual and philosophical traditions, beckons us to unravel the intricate fabric of perceived separateness. It nudges us to fathom that our heads, shoulders, knees, and toes are not disjoint fragments, but an interwoven tapestry of existence that extends beyond our physical form to encompass the entirety of the cosmos.
The Mirage of Separation:
Our conditioned minds are apt at categorizing and labelling. We discern our body parts as separate entities, our thoughts as ours alone, and our experiences as exclusive. This discernment perpetuates a mirage of separation, where we see ourselves as isolated entities distinct from others and the world around us.
The Confluence of Suchness:
Nondual realization, however, invites us to shed these layers of compartmentalization and dive into the undercurrent of ‘suchness’. Suchness refers to the raw, unfiltered state of existence, free from conceptualizations. At this juncture, the distinctions blur, and the head, shoulders, knees, and toes emerge not as isolated landmarks but as interconnected contours of a boundless landscape.
Unity in Diversity:
Imagine a symphony where every instrument contributes to a harmonious melody. Each note, when observed in isolation, has its identity, but together they create music that is beyond the sum of its parts. Similarly, in the realm of nondual awareness, every form and phenomenon is an integral note in the cosmic symphony.
Bodies Within the Cosmic Body:
In the space of nondual awareness, the body is seen not as a solitary vessel but as a wave in the ocean of existence. Each wave is distinct yet made of the same essence as the ocean. The ‘body’ extends beyond physical form and encapsulates the trees, stars, and galaxies – all expressions of the same primordial energy.
Relevance in the Modern World:
In an era characterized by division and strife, embracing the understanding of nonduality can be transformative. When we recognize the interconnectedness of all forms and phenomena, compassion and empathy naturally flow. As we perceive others and the environment not as separate but as extensions of ourselves, a sense of stewardship and responsibility emerges.
Conclusion:
Nondual realization is not just a philosophical concept, but an experiential reality that can awaken us to the interconnected tapestry of existence. By perceiving the unity in diversity, recognizing the body as a microcosm of the cosmic body, and letting go of entrenched categorizations, we can nurture a more inclusive, compassionate, and harmonious world. This realization invites us to not only tread more lightly upon the Earth but also to embrace the boundlessness of our being.
Morgan O. Smith
Yinnergy Meditation & My Book, Bodhi in the Brain…Available Now!
https://linktr.ee/morganosmith
