Tag: Existentialism

Embracing the Void

The Liberation in Nothingness

In our world, brimming with constant stimulation and endless narratives, the concept of ‘Nothingness’ seems almost alien. It’s a state often misunderstood, perceived as a void of despair or a lack of being. Yet, this misconception veils a profound truth. Nothingness, in its purest form, is not a gaping emptiness but a space of boundless freedom. It’s an existential canvas, untouched and unburdened by the layers of human conditioning and societal constructs.

Nothingness is a realm where concepts don’t exist. It’s a landscape where ideas, beliefs, and expectations don’t anchor us. In this space, the false self – that avatar sculpted by external influences and internal conflicts – dissolves. What remains is the essence of being, unshaped by narratives, uncolored by prejudices, and unconfined by the boundaries of identity.


This concept is not new. Philosophers, mystics, and thinkers throughout history have grappled with the notion of ‘Nothingness.’ They’ve seen it not as a pit of nihilism but as a sanctuary of potential. In Zen Buddhism, for example, ‘Mu’ or ‘Emptiness’ is a state to aspire to, a space of pure existence and awareness without the filters of the mind.

The journey to this state is not about negation but about liberation. It’s about peeling away the layers, not to find nothingness but to discover everything in its unaltered form. When we detach from the myriad thoughts, stories, and labels we’ve collected over time, we start seeing the world and ourselves in a clearer light. We begin to experience life not as a series of reactions to preconceived notions but as a flow of unfiltered experiences.

Imagine for a moment, a life free from the tyranny of the ‘shoulds’ and ‘musts,’ a life where our choices are not dictated by ingrained beliefs but are born out of pure awareness. In this space, creativity flourishes, for it is not hindered by fear of judgment or failure. Relationships deepen, as they are not clouded by expectations or past grievances. Every moment becomes an opportunity for genuine discovery, unmarred by the past or the future.

However, embracing Nothingness is not a denial of reality or responsibility. It’s about approaching life with a fresh perspective, one that is unencumbered by the weight of preconceptions. It’s about living authentically, aligned with one’s true nature, rather than a constructed persona.


In a world that often feels chaotic and overwhelming, the state of Nothingness offers a sanctuary of peace and clarity. It reminds us that at the core, beyond the noise and the clutter of our conditioned minds, there is a space of pure potential, waiting to be explored.

The state of Nothingness is not a destination to be reached but a journey to be embraced. It’s a continuous process of unlearning, of letting go, and of returning to the essence of who we truly are.

Morgan O. Smith

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

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith

The Paradox of Suffering

A Perspective on Compassion’s Existence

In a world untouched by suffering and misfortune, one might ponder compassion’s existence or even the necessity. This philosophical contemplation leads us to a profound question: If there were no suffering, would the concept of compassion still hold any significance?

Central to this debate is the idea of the Absolute at the causal stage, a concept that suggests a higher power or universal force responsible for orchestrating the cause and effect in our lives. This notion posits that events and situations are not merely random occurrences but deliberate creations intended to foster specific outcomes or experiences.

Within this framework, suffering and misfortune are seen not as unfortunate byproducts of existence but as essential elements in a grander scheme. They are the variables that necessitate and give birth to compassion. It’s as if the universe, or the Absolute, constructs scenarios to evoke and observe the act of compassion.

This perspective suggests a universe where compassion is a response to suffering and a desired outcome, a necessary expression in the cosmic play. It implies that our experiences of pain and grief are not just happenstances but are integral parts of a larger, perhaps even cosmic, narrative. This narrative is about enduring hardships and the opportunity these hardships present for compassion to arise and flourish. In this view, suffering is not meaningless; rather, it catalyzes the expression of compassion, which could be argued as one of the purest forms of human connection and empathy.

But this viewpoint is not without its controversies. It raises questions about the nature of the Absolute and its role in human affairs. Is suffering deliberately inflicted by a higher power for its amusement or purpose? Does this make the act of compassion a mere tool in a larger, possibly indifferent cosmic game? These questions challenge our understanding of morality and the nature of existence itself.

Furthermore, this perspective can be seen as a double-edged sword. On one hand, it gives a deeper meaning to our struggles, suggesting that our pain and the compassion it invokes are part of a grand, meaningful process. On the other, it might lead to a fatalistic or passive acceptance of suffering, undermining efforts to alleviate it.

In conclusion, the idea that suffering is necessary for compassion presents a challenging yet thought-provoking viewpoint. It forces us to examine the deeper implications of our experiences and the potential purpose behind them. Whether one sees this as a comforting thought or a disturbing implication, it undoubtedly opens up a rich field for philosophical and ethical exploration.

Morgan O. Smith

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

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith

The Philosophical Puzzle

Nothing vs. No Thing

In philosophy, linguistics, and even quantum physics, the concepts of “nothing” and “no thing” stir a deep, often controversial, debate. At first glance, they seem like mere play on words, but their implications run much deeper, touching upon the core of our understanding of existence and reality.

“Nothing,” in its purest sense, refers to the absence of anything. It’s not just an empty space, because even a vacuum is something. It’s the total lack of being, the absolute zero of existence. Philosophers have long grappled with the concept of nothingness, questioning whether it’s even possible to conceive of ‘nothing’ at all. After all, even talking about ‘nothing’ is talking about something.

On the flip side, “no thing” seems to imply a different nuance. It suggests the absence of specific things, rather than the absence of all things. This phrase allows for the existence of some form of reality, even if it’s not the one we are familiar with. It’s the realm where concepts and potentialities live, unmanifested but real in their own right.


The debate between nothing and no thing takes us into the heart of existential questions. Does the universe require something to exist, or can there be a state of true nothingness? And if ‘nothing’ exists, what are its properties? This is not just philosophical musing; it has practical implications in fields like quantum mechanics, where the fabric of reality is in constant flux, and ‘nothingness’ can spontaneously give rise to particles.

The controversy deepens when we consider human perception and language. Our minds are wired to think in terms of things and entities, making it incredibly challenging to conceptualize a state of ‘no thing’ or ‘nothing.’ This linguistic and cognitive limitation shapes our understanding of the world and perhaps limits our ability to grasp the true nature of reality.


In conclusion, the debate over nothing versus no thing is not just a matter of semantics. It’s a profound inquiry into the nature of existence, the limits of human understanding, and the mysteries of the universe. It prompts us to question, explore, and perhaps, accept that some aspects of reality are beyond the grasp of our current knowledge.

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 as the Ultimate Reality

God, referred to as Para Brahman in this context, represents the absolute of all absolutes – an entity encompassing everything from the beautiful to the good, the bad, and the ugly. This concept presents a holistic view of divinity, not limited to only the positive or traditionally ‘godly’ aspects but encompassing all facets of existence.

Para Brahman, in many Eastern philosophies, particularly in Hinduism, is seen as the highest form of Brahman – the ultimate reality or cosmic spirit. This interpretation of God goes beyond the traditional Western notion of a deity who is separate from its creation. Instead, Para Brahman is seen as both immanent and transcendent, existing within and beyond all things.

This idea challenges our typical understanding of divinity and morality. It suggests that everything in existence, regardless of our human judgments of good or bad, is part of this ultimate reality. This inclusive view of the divine implies a deeper, perhaps incomprehensible, unity to all aspects of existence.


This perspective can be both comforting and disconcerting. Comforting, because it suggests a universe that is intrinsically connected and purposeful. Disconcerting, because it challenges our notions of morality and justice, blurring the lines between what we typically consider ‘good’ and ‘evil.’

Such a viewpoint can lead to a more compassionate and understanding approach to life. Recognizing that all aspects of existence, including what we perceive as negative or undesirable, are part of a greater whole, can foster a sense of tolerance and empathy. It encourages us to look beyond our immediate judgments and understand the broader context of life’s events.

However, it also raises complex questions about free will, destiny, and the nature of existence. If everything is part of Para Brahman, what does that say about individual agency and the consequences of our actions? Are good and evil just human constructs with no basis in the ultimate reality? These answers lie within.


In conclusion, viewing God as Para Brahman – the absolute of all absolutes – offers a profound and encompassing perspective on divinity and existence. It challenges our conventional views and invites us to contemplate the deeper connections and meanings of all that occurs in our lives and the universe at large.

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

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 Liberation in Letting Go

Emptiness, Ignorance, and Identity

In a world incessantly clamouring with the din of possession, certainty, and self-promotion, the mantra “Embracing emptiness, cherishing ignorance, surrendering identity” arrives like a whisper from another realm. It calls on us to consider the counterintuitive notion that there is profound freedom and wisdom to be found in the very things we are conditioned to avoid.

**Embracing Emptiness**

Emptiness often conjures a sense of lack, yet in many Eastern philosophies, it is a profound concept, pregnant with possibilities. To embrace emptiness is not to fall into the void, but rather to make space for the new, the unforeseen, the life-affirming. It is the fertile ground of being from which all things spring and to which they return. In the spaciousness of emptiness, we find the flexibility and resilience to move with life’s undulating rhythms.

**Cherishing Ignorance**

Cherishing ignorance may seem antithetical in our knowledge-driven society. However, this is not an advocacy for willful naivete, but a reverence for the acknowledgment of our limitations. Socrates’ declaration of wisdom beginning with the admission of one’s ignorance holds here. Cherishing our not-knowing is an invitation to perennial learning, to the humility that keeps the mind supple, and the heart open to the mystery that is existence.

**Surrendering Identity**

Our identities, the personas we cultivate and present to the world, are often elaborate constructs grounded in who we think we should be or who we want others to believe we are. To surrender this identity is to strip away the superfluous and encounter the authentic self, the self not defined by accolades or attributes, but existing in simple beingness. This surrender is not a loss but a homecoming, a release from the exhausting endeavour of upholding our masks.

In combining these three tenets—emptiness, ignorance, and identity—we approach a way of living that is at once liberating and grounding. It invites a life lived with open hands, where attachment is a choice rather than a compulsion, and authenticity guides our interactions.

As we contemplate this mantra, we might find ourselves stepping into a flow of existence that is less about accumulation and more about experience, less about certainty and more about exploration, less about being someone and more about being part of something greater.

The journey toward embracing this wisdom is counter-cultural. It moves against the grain of our societal norms, urging us to let go of what we cling to most tightly. Yet, the promise it holds is nothing short of transformational—freedom from the self-imposed prisons of material excess, intellectual rigidity, and egoic constraint.

In this space, we find that emptiness is fullness, ignorance is wisdom, and surrender is power. And so, we continue to explore, with hearts wide open to the vastness of the unknown.

Morgan O.  Smith

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

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith

The Ground of All Being

The Universe Expressing Itself as Us

The ground of all being is an enthralling concept that presents a holistic perspective on existence. It implies that the very essence of reality, the foundational principle upon which all things stand, is a singular, pervasive entity. It is like a canvas upon which the entire universe is painted, a silent symphony playing every note of existence. And if we dig deeper, the mesmerizing idea emerges: this entity expresses itself through every form and facet of the universe.

Now, consider our galaxy, our planet, and finally, us. Amidst the vast expanse of stars, black holes, and nebulae, here we are — a small species on a tiny planet. But what if we’re not just passive inhabitants? What if we’re the universe experiencing itself, attempting to understand its nature?

Every human being, with their myriad of talents, skills, ideas, and interests, is a unique representation of the universe. Each song we sing, each painting we create, and every scientific theory we develop, is the universe expressing a fragment of its infinite complexity. Our personalities, whether introverted or extroverted, logical or emotional, are simply different melodies in the grand cosmic orchestra.

If one subscribes to this perspective, it brings forth profound implications. Firstly, it fosters a deep sense of interconnectedness. When we grasp that we are not isolated entities but interwoven threads in the cosmic tapestry, our interactions with others take on a new depth. It also emphasizes the importance of self-expression. By understanding and expressing our unique talents and traits, we allow the universe to manifest itself in new and beautiful ways.

In conclusion, by viewing ourselves as expressions of the ground of all being, we can cultivate a deeper sense of purpose and interconnectedness. It’s a reminder that we’re not just in the universe, but the universe is in us, experiencing and exploring through every thought, action, and emotion.

Morgan O. Smith

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

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith

The Ultimate Context

A Glimpse Beyond Our Narratives

Life is a tapestry of personal narratives. Each of us is the author of our own story, swept up in the whirl of our everyday trials and tribulations, from the mundane to the monumental. We’re all preoccupied with our victories and defeats, joys and sorrows, dreams and disappointments, which collectively form our unique, personal content. Yet, amidst this tumultuous weave of personal stories, there lurks a broader tapestry, a profound, immutable context that transcends our existences—the Ultimate Reality or the Ultimate Context.

This Ultimate Context is akin to a vast ocean upon which our individual lives are but transient waves. We are too often ignorant of its presence, absorbed in the details of our fleeting crests and troughs, beginnings, and endings. But our myopic vision deprives us of the understanding that our waves are inseparable from the larger, unfathomable expanse of the ocean—the Ultimate Reality.

Unveiling the Veil of Illusion

Many philosophical traditions, such as Buddhism and Hinduism, refer to our preoccupation with personal content as an illusion—maya or samsara. This illusion stems from our inability to recognize that the seemingly separate, solid, and enduring ‘self’ we believe ourselves to be is just a wave on the ocean’s surface, part of the boundless, interconnected, and constantly changing Ultimate Reality.

Our inability to perceive this reality is often compared to a dream from which we struggle to awaken. Our ‘personal content’ may seem to us the full reality because it engrosses our senses and emotions, yet it is merely a fragment of the ‘Ultimate Context.’

Rediscovering the Ultimate Context

How do we reorient our focus away from our narratives to understand the Ultimate Context? Philosophies and spiritual traditions around the world suggest varied paths, from rigorous intellectual inquiry to deep meditation. Regardless of the method, the goal remains the same: to transcend the confines of our consciousness and recognize our union with the Ultimate Reality.

Practicing mindfulness and living in the ‘here and now’ is one approach that offers us the chance to step away from our content. Mindfulness offers a way to become aware of the ‘nowness’ of existence, to experience the world and ourselves as a series of interconnected, ephemeral phenomena. Through this process, we can gradually attune ourselves to the Ultimate Context.

The Potential Impact

Imagine what our lives would look like if we acknowledged the Ultimate Context. Our struggles, while not diminished, might be seen in a new light. We would recognize that we are not isolated entities combating a hostile universe, but integral parts of a vast, interconnected whole. This understanding could engender a profound sense of peace, compassion, and interconnectedness, transforming our relationships with ourselves, others, and the world at large.

Embracing the Journey

Venturing into the realm of the Ultimate Context is not an easy task. It requires us to shift our perceptions, to question our deeply ingrained beliefs about ourselves and reality. But the journey, while challenging, holds the promise of a profound transformation—a metamorphosis from a wave oblivious of its oceanic nature to one that rides the currents of existence with grace, understanding, and wonder.

In the end, the Ultimate Context is not a lofty abstraction to be pondered upon, but a living reality to be experienced. It invites us to shift our gaze from the canvas of our content and behold the magnificent tapestry of existence. To make this shift is to awaken from our dream of separateness and embrace the full richness of our interconnected lives. This is not an escape from our day-to-day trials and tribulations but a broader understanding of their place within a larger panorama of existence. By grounding our narratives within the Ultimate Context, we can navigate life’s ups and downs with greater equanimity, wisdom, and inner peace.

Implications for Society

If we expand this understanding from the individual to the collective level, the implications are profound. Recognizing the Ultimate Context could revolutionize our approach to societal issues, from climate change to social inequality. Instead of viewing these problems through the narrow lens of individualistic concerns, we would perceive them as disruptions in the interconnected web of existence that they truly are. This could catalyze a more compassionate, holistic, and effective response.

The Ultimate Journey

The journey toward the Ultimate Context is more than a philosophical quest. It is a profound transformation, an inner pilgrimage towards a fuller, more interconnected understanding of reality. It is a journey from the known to the unknown, from the surface to the depth, from separateness to oneness.

Embracing the Ultimate Context does not mean rejecting our content, our individual stories. Instead, it invites us to view them as integral threads of a grander cosmic tapestry. The beauty of our trials and tribulations, our victories and defeats, lies in their interconnectedness with everything else that exists.

In this journey, we are not alone. Every individual, consciously or unconsciously, is a traveller on this path. We are all part of the same quest, the same unfolding story of discovering and understanding the Ultimate Context. As we navigate this path, let us remember that our waves are not separate from the ocean. They are the ocean, expressing itself in all its diversity, beauty, and mystery. In embracing the Ultimate Context, we celebrate not just our narratives, but the grand saga of existence itself.

Morgan O. Smith

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

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith

The Universe in a Dance

Exploring Simultaneous Cause-Effect Monism

In the expansive universe of philosophical perspectives, a novel theory that challenges conventional notions of time and causality has begun to make ripples – the Simultaneous Cause-Effect Monism.

In a realm where most theories exist within a linear framework of time, this theory disrupts traditional boundaries. It suggests an existence where every event, every entity, and every circumstance is not simply a cause or an effect but rather, both simultaneously.

The concept of the universe being born and ending in the same moment challenges our perception of time. According to Simultaneous Cause-Effect Monism, the Big Bang was not just the inception of the expanded universe but also its endpoint. The universe’s lifespan, then, is perceived as a singular moment.

Every action, from the minuscule to the macroscopic, is entwined in a web of causality, serving both as the cause and the effect. This applies not just to the celestial bodies and vast galaxies, but also to the subatomic particles and everything smaller, hidden deep within the fabric of existence. Every aspect of existence and non-existence contributes to the perpetual construction and deconstruction of the universe from its own unique perspective.

The Simultaneous Cause-Effect Monism, in its unique way, asserts that every action is not an isolated event. Instead, it is an intrinsic part of the universe’s vast tapestry. This intrinsic nature implies that each action, each event, and each moment, in being both the cause and the effect, resonates in a perpetual cycle of creation and destruction.

The acknowledgment of this intricate network of causality is what this theory denotes as “Turiyatitta”. This is not just a moment of epiphany, but a state of ultimate enlightenment. At this juncture, the individual gains complete knowledge of this causality web. The recognition of this intertwined causality brings forth a sense of unity and comprehension of the universe’s functioning, as proposed by Simultaneous Cause-Effect Monism.

In conclusion, the Simultaneous Cause-Effect Monism offers a thought-provoking perspective. It reshapes our understanding of existence, pushing us to question the linear, one-directional nature of time and causality we have grown so accustomed to. By opening up to this perspective, we move closer to the ultimate understanding of the universe and our place in it.

Are we ready to embrace this dance of simultaneous causality and venture towards the path of enlightenment – towards Turiyatitta? The future of philosophical discourse awaits.

Morgan O. Smith

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

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith