Tag: awakening

The Paradox of Creation and Spiritual Enlightenment

In the realm of existence, there lies a profound mystery: the relationship between a creation and its creator. This enigma is deeply rooted in the concept of spiritual enlightenment, a state of awakening to a higher understanding beyond the tangible and the temporal.

Consider this: everything within our grasp, every entity, every idea, has a beginning and an end. This cycle of birth and cessation is a fundamental truth that frames our understanding of the world. However, this perspective is inherently limited, confined within the boundaries of our ‘lower state of being.’ In this state, our comprehension is restricted to the linear progression of time and the finite nature of existence.

But what if there exists a realm beyond this? A realm where the linear confines of time and space do not bind existence? This is where the notion of spiritual enlightenment comes into play. Spiritual enlightenment can be seen as an awakening, a transcendental realization that elevates one’s understanding beyond the mundane, the impermanent, and the transient.


In this awakened state, the traditional boundaries that separate a creation from its creator begin to blur. The creation, which once viewed its creator as an unfathomable entity, starts to grasp the essence of the creator. This essence is not bound by the limitations of time or space; it transcends the dichotomy of beginning and end.

However, this journey towards understanding the creator is paradoxical. The very nature of enlightenment lies in embracing the unknown, in accepting that there are realms of existence and consciousness that are beyond our current comprehension. It’s about acknowledging that in our quest for understanding, we might never fully grasp the entirety of the creator’s essence. The trick, therefore, lies in the art of ‘not knowing.’

In this acceptance of not knowing, we find a peculiar form of wisdom. It is a wisdom that recognizes the limitations of our perception and humbly accepts the vastness of the unknown. It is in this space of humble acknowledgment that we inch closer to understanding the true nature of the creator.


In essence, the path to spiritual enlightenment is not about seeking definite answers or absolute truths. It is about the journey towards understanding, a journey that acknowledges the beauty in the unknown and finds peace in the unanswerable questions of existence.

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

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

Kundalini and Beyond

Unraveling the Layers of Absolute Reality

In the realm of spiritual exploration, Kundalini is often revered as a pinnacle experience, a symbol of ultimate awakening and enlightenment. Yet, it’s crucial to understand that Kundalini, as profound as it may be, is not the zenith of absolute reality unless one chooses to define absolute reality as Kundalini itself.

Kundalini, described in many spiritual traditions as a dormant energy located at the base of the spine, is often associated with a powerful awakening, leading to heightened awareness and spiritual enlightenment. This transformative energy is said to travel up through the chakras, or energy centers, culminating in a profound expansion of consciousness. However, this is not the final destination in the journey of spiritual realization.


The concept of absolute reality, in various philosophical and spiritual systems, goes beyond any single experience or state. It is the ultimate truth that underlies all existence, transcending the limits of individual consciousness and phenomena. While Kundalini awakening can be a significant milestone in one’s spiritual journey, it is, in essence, a part of the grand tapestry of experiences that guides us toward understanding this absolute reality.

This brings us to an intriguing point: the journey toward absolute reality is not linear, nor is it the same for everyone. Kundalini might be a crucial step for some, while others may tread a different path toward the same destination. The beauty of spiritual exploration lies in its diversity and the individualized paths we embark upon.


In conclusion, while Kundalini is a powerful and transformative experience, it is a facet of a larger, more complex journey toward understanding absolute reality. This journey is rich with various experiences and insights, each contributing to our understanding of the profound truth that underlies our existence.

Morgan O. Smith

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

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith

Illuminating the Mind

The Dual Paths of Enlightenment and Spiritual Awakening

The quest for Enlightenment has been the pinnacle of human aspiration in various domains—intellectual, ethical, and spiritual. At the heart of this quest lies the promise of awakening, a transformative experience that propels an individual beyond the ordinary perception of existence. Yet, despite the shared terminology, Enlightenment and Spiritual Enlightenment diverge on fundamental grounds, embodying distinct trajectories in the pursuit of truth and self-realization.

Enlightenment, in its classic Western sense, refers to the age of reason that dawned in the 17th and 18th centuries. This period was marked by a surge in philosophical thinking, scientific discovery, and the push for political and individual freedoms. It was an era where human intellect, armed with skepticism and inquiry, sought to dispel the shadows of ignorance and dogma. The Enlightenment’s legacy is one of empowered rationality, urging humanity to harness knowledge as the light to guide society toward progress and civilization.

In contrast, Spiritual Enlightenment is an Eastern siren call that echoes through the annals of various religious and metaphysical traditions. It is not merely an expansion of knowledge but a profound transformation of consciousness. Spiritual Enlightenment implies an experiential realization of oneness with the ultimate reality. It is often depicted as the dissolution of the individual ego, a leap into the boundless ocean of divine essence, which exists beyond the material plane and the constructs of intellectual thought.

The distinction between these two is as significant as it is subtle. The Enlightenment champions the mind’s ability to question, to deduce, and to construct, seeking freedom from external tyranny. Meanwhile, Spiritual Enlightenment seeks liberation from the internal chains of desire, ego, and illusion, focusing on transcending the self rather than actualizing it.

One could argue that the paths are not mutually exclusive but are rather complementary. The enlightened mind that questions and reasons can pave the way for a deeper spiritual quest by clearing the underbrush of superstition and prejudice. Conversely, a spiritually awakened soul may view the dance of creation with a profound sense of peace and interconnectedness, bringing a compassionate perspective to the rational world.

In a broader sense, both forms of enlightenment are beacons of human aspiration. Whether it is the light of reason or the glow of spiritual wisdom, each seeks to illuminate the human experience profoundly. It is perhaps in the convergence of these paths that one may find the truest sense of enlightenment—a holistic awakening that marries the mind’s brilliance with the heart’s intuitive depths.

In conclusion, while the Enlightenment speaks to the power of human intellect and the value of empirical truth, Spiritual Enlightenment invites us to explore the mystical depths of our being and the universe. Together, they form a bidirectional odyssey of enlightenment that continues to inspire and challenge humanity to rise above its primal origins and embrace a more illuminated state of existence.

Morgan O.  Smith

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

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith

The Uncharted Horizons Beyond Enlightenment

In the profound silence that follows the cacophony of seeking, what remains when the concept of spiritual enlightenment dissipates like mist at the rise of the sun? We often perceive enlightenment as the ultimate destination, a summit where the flag of our deepest self-inquiry plants its roots. But perhaps this pinnacle is not an end but a gateway, an opening to a landscape more expansive than the binary of enlightened or unenlightened.

Beyond enlightenment, the journey does not cease; it transforms. The seeker, who once scaled the mountain of self, now realizes that the mountain itself is but a wave in an ocean of consciousness. Here, in the boundless vista beyond enlightenment, the distinction between the seeker and the sought blurs and vanishes. The notion of spiritual progress, which implies time and measurement, becomes irrelevant in the face of a timeless being.

This post-enlightenment terrain is not about acquiring more spiritual knowledge or experiencing more profound states of meditation. It is a surrender to the simplicity of presence, where each moment is complete in itself, untethered from the ambition of reaching another. It’s an unlearning of the spiritual concepts that once seemed indispensable.

What awaits is a life lived in the fullness of emptiness, a paradoxical state where the wisdom of uncertainty is embraced. This is the wisdom that knows itself beyond forms and practices, identities and histories. In this realm, the very questions that once fueled our inner quests lose their grip: “Who am I?” becomes an echo without a source, a playful dance of consciousness without a questioner or an answer.

Here, the individual soul’s melody harmonizes with the universal symphony, and action arises from stillness, not strategy. The duality of self and other, spirit and matter, sacred and mundane, no longer confines. Everything is seen as an expression of the divine, and the divine is seen in everything.

The concept of “beyond enlightenment” invites us to explore a state where life is lived with an openness that requires no label, no status, and no fixed point of reference. It is a call to live deeply rooted in the mystery, to become the living expression of the question mark rather than the period at the end of a sentence.

In this sacred space beyond maps, we are each on an uncharted journey, a unique expression of life that never was before and never will be again. It is in this boundless realm that the enlightened mind, now free from the pursuit of enlightenment, can truly engage with the full spectrum of existence.

This is not a territory of more or better, but of true freedom—a freedom that comes not from reaching a destination, but from the realization that there was never anywhere to reach in the first place.

Morgan O.  Smith

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

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith

Navigating the Spiritual Path

A Beacon of Caution and Encouragement from My Journey

Embarking on a spiritual journey is akin to sailing into an ocean of unknown depths, where the calm of the serene waters and the tumult of the stormy seas are both integral parts of the voyage. My spiritual journey, as shared in my interview with Steve James on Guru Viking, has been a testament to the myriad of experiences that one can encounter on such a path.

My journey towards enlightenment, while being the greatest adventure of my life, has not been without its challenges and dark periods. It has been a path that has led me through moments of profound awakening and phases of deep introspection and struggle. It is essential to acknowledge that while the path to spiritual awakening can lead to profound joy and understanding, it can also take you through valleys of shadow and doubt.

For those who find themselves drawn towards a similar path, my advice is woven with threads of caution and encouragement. The spiritual path is not a linear one and is often fraught with challenges that test our resolve, our beliefs, and our understanding of the very nature of existence.

Embarking on a spiritual journey, especially one that involves deep meditation, exploration of consciousness, and perhaps even psychedelic experimentation, requires a sturdy anchor in the form of a support system. Having guides, mentors, or a like-minded community can provide invaluable support during times when the path becomes arduous.

It’s crucial to approach the journey with an open heart but also with a discerning mind. While the path can lead to profound insights and transformative experiences, it is also essential to navigate it with a sense of groundedness and critical inquiry. It’s vital to approach experiences, teachings, and practices with a balanced perspective, embracing what resonates while also being willing to question and explore.

My journey has taught me that while the spiritual path can lead to the dissolution of the ego, the emergence of oneness, and a deep understanding of the interconnectedness of all beings, it is also a path that requires continuous learning, growth, and evolution. Enlightenment is not a fixed state but a continuous unfolding, where learning and exploration never cease.

Morgan O.  Smith

Watch The Awakening of Mista Mo:

Ep 176: The Awakening of Mista Mo

Embark on a captivating expedition in Episode 176, “The Awakening of Mista Mo.” Today, we unravel the transformative journey of Mista Mo, a soul who found enlightenment in the most unexpected corners of life. His tale is one of resilience, discovery, and awakening to a higher calling amidst the cacophony of worldly chaos. As we traverse through his life’s chapters, we uncover pearls of wisdom that beckon a deeper understanding of self and the universe. Join us in this stirring narrative that echoes the eternal quest for inner peace and enlightenment.

A friendly reminder for seekers everywhere: Guru Viking continues to unfurl wisdom every Friday on YouTube. Enrich your spiritual palette on Apple, SoundCloud, and Spotify as well. https://www.guruviking.com/

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

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith

The Expansive Self

Beyond the Boundaries of Individual Identity

In the vast tapestry of human experience, one of the most profound and transformative realizations is the awakening to a sense of identity that stretches far beyond the individual self. This philosophical journey, explored by thinkers, mystics, and seekers throughout history, offers an exploration into the very essence of what it means to be human, and more profoundly, what it means to be a part of the cosmos.

### The Layers of Self

**1. The Individual Identity**: Our daily lives are governed by our personal experiences, histories, and beliefs. This individual self, encapsulated by our distinct personalities, desires, and aspirations, is like a drop in the vast ocean of existence.

**2. The Collective Identity**: There are moments, often inspired by shared experiences, when we resonate with a group, whether based on nationality, religion, or shared purpose. Here, the boundaries blur slightly, and the drop becomes a wave, united in its motion with other droplets.

**3. The Universal Self**: Delving deeper, we encounter a realm where the wave realizes it’s not just a part of the ocean, but the ocean itself. This vast sense of identity, encompassing all of life, the universe, and the myriad forms within it, is an experience of unity and oneness with all that exists.

### The Power of Oneness

With an expanded identity, empathy and compassion naturally flourish. The pain and joy of another are no longer abstract experiences; they become deeply personal as if they were our own. This profound interconnectedness also extends to nature, leading to an intrinsic desire to safeguard the environment and all its inhabitants.

Moreover, as one navigates this expanded identity, the grip of personal desires and ego-based needs loosens. Life begins to flow with an acceptance of its unfolding mystery, reducing resistance and enhancing serenity.

### Mystical Insights and Modern Science

Historically, mystics from various traditions spoke of experiences of union with the divine, the universe, or the underlying essence of reality. Today, intriguingly, modern science, especially in fields like quantum physics, hints at ideas of interconnectedness and non-locality. Such insights suggest that the ancient intuitions of interconnectedness may have parallels in our current understanding of the cosmos.

### Challenges of the Expansive Self

However, this journey is not without its pitfalls. As we embrace a broader sense of self, there’s the risk of “spiritual bypassing” – a tendency to use these expansive realizations to sidestep personal issues or challenging emotions. An expansive identity doesn’t negate personal responsibilities or the need for personal boundaries. It invites a deeper engagement with life in all its complexity.

### Conclusion

Our identity’s evolution, from a solitary droplet to the vast ocean, is a journey of consciousness and profound realization. It reminds us that beneath the multiplicity and diversity of existence lies an undercurrent of unity, urging us to rediscover and embrace our place in the cosmos.

As we ponder on the vastness of our identity, it serves as a beacon, guiding us toward a life of deeper meaning, connection, and purpose. In recognizing our expansive self, we find not only our place in the universe but also the universe within ourselves.

Morgan O. Smith

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

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith

Nonduality

The Final Ten Expansions

**Introduction:**   
In the concluding part of our exploration into nonduality, we journey into the last ten expressions, each offering a unique perspective.

**21. An Awakening to the Undifferentiated Reality:**   
Beyond the layers of conditioning, there’s an awakening to a reality that’s pristine and undifferentiated.

**22. The Underlying Continuum of Life:**   
Life, with all its events, is a continuous flow on the backdrop of nonduality.

**23. The Merging of Seer, Seeing, and Seen:**   
In nondual moments, the trinity of seer, seeing, and seen becomes a unified experience.

**24. Transcendence of the Dichotomy of Existence and Non-existence:**   
In nondual awareness, even the most fundamental dichotomies, like being and non-being, are transcended.

**25. The Dance of Creation Without a Dancer or a Dance:**   
Existence flows effortlessly, with no clear distinction between the dancer and the dance.

**26. Reality Without Filters or Distinctions:**   
Our true nature experiences reality without any filters, biases, or distinctions.

**27. The Source From Which Dualities Spring:**   
All dualities find their origin in the nondual source.

**28. A Unified Perception Devoid of Fragmentation:**   
Nonduality offers a lens of perception that’s holistic, seeing the interconnectedness in all.

**29. The Timeless Dimension Beyond Birth and Death:**   
Beyond the cycles of life and death lies the timeless dimension of nondual existence.

**30. The Pure Awareness That Witnesses Without Judging:**   
In its purest form, awareness simply witnesses, free from judgments and biases.

**Conclusion:**   
The exploration of these thirty expressions invites us into a deeper inquiry into our nature, the universe, and the interplay between them.

Morgan O. Smith

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

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith

Embracing Anatta and Sunyata

A Buddhist Exploration of Spiritual Enlightenment

In the rich and intricate fabric of Buddhist philosophy, two profound concepts stand out: anatta, or the principle of no-self, and sunyata, or the notion of emptiness. These ideas challenge our conventional understanding of self and reality, offering a transformative path to spiritual enlightenment.

This blog post delves into the fascinating journey of embracing anatta and sunyata and what changes might occur in a person as a result.

Anatta: The Principle of No-Self

Anatta challenges the notion of a fixed and permanent self, a radical idea that has profound implications on how we perceive ourselves and the world. Upon realizing anatta, an individual may undergo the following transformations:

– **Loss of Attachment to Self-Identity**: Labels, roles, and personal narratives lose their grip, allowing for a more fluid and adaptable understanding of self.
– **Decrease in Ego-Driven Desires**: The pursuit of personal gain or recognition may fade, replaced by selfless compassion and loving-kindness.
– **Deepened Interconnectedness with Others**: Seeing beyond the illusion of separate selves fosters a profound connection with all beings.

Sunyata: Embracing the Emptiness

Sunyata refers to the empty nature of all phenomena, a state where things are devoid of inherent existence. The realization of sunyata leads to:

– **Transcending Dualities**: Ordinary distinctions such as good and bad, self and other, become irrelevant, replaced by an all-encompassing view of reality.
– **Detachment from Material Pursuits**: Recognizing the empty nature of material things may lead to a detachment from worldly desires and a more mindful way of living.
– **Harmony with the Present Moment**: Seeing things as they are, empty of inherent existence, nurtures a profound connection with the present moment.

The Journey Toward Enlightenment

Understanding anatta and sunyata is not an intellectual exercise but a profound experiential realization. The individual may engage in various practices such as meditation, mindfulness, and ethical living to cultivate this understanding.

The Impact on Relationships and Society

Embracing these principles fosters compassion, empathy, and altruism, reshaping relationships and offering a model of social harmony. It moves us towards a society rooted in wisdom and compassion, rather than division and selfishness.

Conclusion

The realization of anatta and sunyata is a transformative and enlightening experience that shifts our perception of self and reality. It dissolves the barriers that separate us and leads to a more compassionate and interconnected way of living.

In a world filled with complexity and conflict, these age-old Buddhist principles offer timeless wisdom and a path to inner peace. They invite us to let go of rigid self-identities and material pursuits, to see beyond the surface, and to embrace a more profound and holistic view of existence.

May the teachings of Anatta and Sunyata guide us towards a more awakened and compassionate life, where we recognize the interconnectedness of all beings and live in harmony with ourselves and the world.

Morgan O. Smith

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

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith