Tag: nonduality

The Unforeseen Impact of a Brief Encounter

My Journey to Spiritual Awakening

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

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

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

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

Morgan O. Smith

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

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith

Exploring the Nondual State of Turiyatitta

Beyond the Ego’s Realm

In the journey of spiritual awakening, particularly during the Enlightenment period, we encounter profound concepts that challenge our understanding of self and existence. Among these concepts is the intriguing idea of the nondual state known as Turiyatitta. This state signifies a pivotal transformation where the individual transcends ordinary consciousness, reaching a realm beyond the ego’s grasp.

### The Death of the Ego

At the heart of this transformation lies the “death of the ego.” This term, often shrouded in mysticism, refers to a significant shift in one’s perception of self. In our usual state, we identify strongly with our ego, which is essentially our constructed self-image, replete with our personal history, beliefs, and idiosyncrasies. The ego thrives on differentiation, seeing the self as separate from others and the world at large.


### Turiyatitta: The Nondual Experience

However, in the state of Turiyatitta, this differentiation dissolves. It is a state where the boundaries that separate the individual from the experience are no longer present. In simpler terms, the experiencer (the individual) and the experience become indistinguishable. This is a profound realization, where one no longer views themselves as an isolated entity navigating through an external world, but rather as an integral part of a unified whole.

### Implications of Nonduality

This nondual perspective offers a radical shift in understanding the nature of existence. It challenges the deeply ingrained notion of individualism that pervades many cultures. In Turiyatitta, the sense of separation, which is the root cause of much of our suffering – be it in the form of loneliness, competition, or conflict – dissolves. What remains is a sense of oneness, a deep connection with all that is.


### The Journey to Enlightenment

Reaching this state is often described as the pinnacle of the spiritual journey, a key milestone in the path to Enlightenment. It requires deep introspection, meditation, and often, guidance from spiritual teachings and mentors. It’s not merely an intellectual understanding but a lived, experiential reality.

### Conclusion

The concept of Turiyatitta, and the experience of nondual awareness it describes, presents a fascinating and potentially transformative perspective on life and existence. It invites us to reconsider our relationship with ourselves, others, and the world around us, promising a path toward greater harmony, peace, and understanding.

Morgan O. Smith

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

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith

Embracing the Spectrum

Perspectives on Nonduality

In the realm of spirituality and philosophy, nonduality presents a fascinating paradox. It’s a term that evokes both simplicity and complexity, challenging our understanding of reality and existence. At its core, nonduality means ‘not two’ or ‘one without a second’. This concept, often rooted in Eastern philosophies such as Advaita Vedanta, posits that there is no fundamental division in the universe. Everything, at its essence, is the same.

But here’s where it gets intriguing: within this notion of oneness, myriad perspectives and interpretations exist. Each of these perspectives offers a unique lens through which we can view nonduality. Some may see it as a spiritual realization of oneness with the universe, others as a philosophical understanding that transcends physical distinctions. Some approach nonduality through the lens of science, seeking to understand how this concept aligns with the interconnectedness revealed in quantum physics.


What’s remarkable is that all these perspectives are valid and encompassed within the unified reality of nonduality. This inclusivity is precisely what nonduality is about – it’s not just a concept of ‘no distinctions’ in a literal sense, but also a recognition that every interpretation, every perspective, is part of the whole. The variety of viewpoints doesn’t dilute the concept but enriches our understanding and appreciation of it.

This leads us to a profound realization: nonduality isn’t just a concept to be understood intellectually, but an experiential truth to be lived. It encourages us to look beyond the apparent separations and differences that define our everyday existence. In recognizing nonduality, we find a deeper connection with the world around us, seeing ourselves not as isolated beings but as integral parts of a greater whole.


In essence, nonduality teaches us that while we may perceive distinctions and separations in the world, at a fundamental level, these distinctions are illusory. It invites us to experience life not just through the lens of separation but through a lens of unity and interconnectedness. This shift in perspective can be transformative, offering a pathway to greater understanding, compassion, and peace.

As we explore this concept further, it’s essential to remember that nonduality isn’t about negating diversity or individual experiences. Instead, it’s about recognizing the underlying unity that encompasses all diversity. It’s a journey of discovery, where each step in understanding brings us closer to the profound simplicity at the heart of existence.

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

Navigating the Depths

Nonduality vs. Absolute Monism

In the intricate tapestry of philosophical thought, two concepts often emerge as profound and perplexing: Nonduality and Absolute Monism. These philosophical gems, though seemingly similar, hold distinct perspectives on the nature of existence and the universe.

**Nonduality: The Unity of Existence**

Nonduality, a term often associated with Eastern philosophies, particularly Advaita Vedanta, posits a fundamental principle: reality is one, and the perception of duality or separation is illusory. It suggests that what we experience as separate entities – ourselves, others, and the world around us – are not distinct, but part of a unified whole. The philosophy of Nonduality encourages us to transcend this illusion, to realize that at the core of our being, we are not separate from the universe but one with it.


**Absolute Monism: The Dance of Oneness and Multiplicity**

Absolute Monism, on the other hand, takes a slightly different approach. While it agrees with the principle of oneness, it also acknowledges the existence of multiplicity. This philosophy, as I interpret it, embraces the paradoxes of existence: one and not two, two and not one, one and two, two and one, one within two, two within one, yet simultaneously neither one nor two. It reflects a deeper understanding of the cosmos as a dynamic interplay of unity and diversity, where the singular and the plural coexist in a harmonious yet complex relationship.

**The Interplay and Implications**

The discussion of Nonduality versus Absolute Monism is not just a theoretical exercise but has profound practical implications. In Nonduality, the path to enlightenment or understanding involves the realization of oneness, leading to a sense of peace and connectedness with all. In Absolute Monism, the journey is about embracing and understanding the complexity and paradox of existence, leading to a deep appreciation of life’s multifaceted nature.

Both philosophies, in their essence, guide us toward a greater understanding of our place in the universe. They invite us to look beyond the superficial and to question the very nature of reality.


**Conclusion: A Journey of Understanding**

In the end, whether one leans towards Nonduality or Absolute Monism, the journey is one of deep introspection and understanding. It’s about peeling back the layers of what we perceive and understanding the deeper truths of our existence. As we delve into these philosophies, we find not just answers, but also a greater appreciation for the questions themselves.

Morgan O. Smith

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

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith

Navigating the Infinite

My Journey Through the Layers of Nonduality

In my spiritual journey, I have come to hold a unique perspective on nonduality that deeply resonates with my personal experiences. It is a viewpoint where I see the myriad forms and phenomena of this vast universe as expressions of a singular, boundless reality. This perspective has been a guiding light in my explorations, leading me through various levels of nonduality.

Each level I have navigated has unveiled its unique insights and perspectives, enriching my understanding of existence and consciousness. These explorations have revealed to me the intricate and profound nature of reality, where every form, every phenomenon, is interconnected in a way that transcends our conventional understanding.


One of the most profound realizations in this journey has been the understanding that all perspectives on nonduality are valid. This realization came from a deep recognition that each individual’s experiences and realizations are unique expressions of their journey through the infinite landscapes of consciousness. Just as a diamond has many facets, each reflecting light in its unique way, so too does the experience of nonduality present itself in myriad forms.

This approach to nonduality respects and embraces the diversity of nondual experiences. It acknowledges that the myriad paths we tread in our spiritual journeys, with their unique revelations and insights, are all different facets of the same boundless reality. In this, there is a deep sense of unity and interconnectedness – a recognition that, in our diversity, we are expressions of the same underlying reality.


To all who walk the path of spiritual exploration, I encourage you to embrace your unique journey. Your experiences, insights, and realizations are invaluable contributions to the understanding of our collective existence. They are the threads that weave into the vast tapestry of nondual understanding, each one essential and irreplaceable.

Morgan O. Smith

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

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith

Exploring the Depths of Absolute Monism

And its Relation to Nonduality

In my deep exploration of spiritual teachings, I’ve gained a profound insight into the nature of reality, particularly focusing on Absolute Monism and its relation to nonduality. I understand that Absolute Monism goes beyond nonduality (at least how it’s interpreted here in the West), offering a perspective that is both inclusive and expansive.

At the heart of nonduality is oneness – the interconnectivity of everything and the illusion of separateness. I often discuss this, saying, “There’s something between those two opposing views [of separation and non-separation] that is absolute; something that is neither true nor false…it just is.” This reveals that the truth of our existence lies beyond the dualistic ideas of separateness or oneness, in a realm where these notions are simply aspects of a greater truth.

In my exploration of Absolute Monism, I describe a state that transcends the oneness found in nondual teachings. It’s not about negating duality but about moving beyond the need to categorize existence as either one or many. I believe that the ultimate reality is beyond human comprehension, yet it’s inherently present in every aspect of existence. As I often say, “Everything that has ever happened and every future event that will happen is happening now in the present…but the actual present is only a made-up concept.” This points to a reality where time and space, past and future, existence and nonexistence, are all part of an eternal ‘now’ – a state that is ineffable and boundless.

Furthermore, I suggest that profound spiritual experiences, like the awakening of Kundalini, are manifestations of this absolute reality. I note, “Even kundalini and all its magnificence is only a made-up manifestation of who and what you truly are.” This means that while spiritual experiences can be transformative, they still exist within the manifest universe and aren’t the ultimate reality.

In summary, my teachings offer a unique perspective on Absolute Monism. This view transcends and includes the principles of nonduality, hinting at a reality beyond the dualistic constructs of human understanding. It points to an ultimate truth that encompasses all experiences and concepts, a truth that ‘just is’ – beyond definition, beyond separation, and oneness.

Morgan O. Smith

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

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith

Embracing the Paradox of Nonduality

Beyond Cherry-Picking Reality

In pursuing spiritual understanding, the concept of nonduality presents a profound paradox. This philosophy, deeply rooted in various traditions, asserts that reality is an undivided whole, transcending the usual distinctions we make between self and other, here and there, or this and that. Nonduality suggests that these separations are illusions, conceptual divisions in the seamless fabric of existence.

However, a common pitfall in approaching nonduality is what could be termed “cherry-picking.” This is where one selectively embraces aspects of nonduality that appeal to them, while conveniently discarding others. It’s akin to admiring the beauty of a rose while ignoring its thorns. Yet, true nonduality, as a concept, includes and transcends all there is. It encompasses every aspect of existence, leaving nothing out, yet paradoxically, it also transcends everything we can conceive or perceive.


The crux of understanding nonduality lies in its experiential realization. Unlike concepts that can be learned from books or teachings, nonduality must be directly experienced to be truly known. This direct experience often defies language and intellectual comprehension. It’s a state of being where the boundaries that separate the self from the universe dissolve, revealing a fundamental unity.

This direct experience of nonduality often comes in fleeting moments of profound insight or deep meditation. In these moments, the constructs of the mind fall away, and what remains is a sense of oneness with all that is. This experience can be both exhilarating and disorienting, as it challenges the most fundamental beliefs about ourselves and the world.


The journey to nondual realization is, therefore, not about acquiring new knowledge but about unlearning – letting go of the deeply ingrained patterns of thought that keep us locked in the illusion of separateness. It’s a process of deconstruction, where one sheds layers of conditioned thinking to reveal the underlying unity of existence.

In embracing nonduality, one must be wary of the temptation to cherry-pick. The whole of existence, with its beauty and brutality, its joy and suffering, is included in the nondual understanding. Nothing is excluded, yet everything is transcended. This paradox is at the heart of nonduality – a reminder that the ultimate truth lies beyond the grasp of our usual ways of thinking and perceiving.

In conclusion, nonduality offers a radical perspective that challenges our conventional understanding of reality. It invites us to look beyond our selective perceptions and embrace the totality of existence. While its true essence can only be known through direct experience, the journey toward this realization can transform our understanding of ourselves and the world.

 Morgan O.  Smith

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

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith

The Convergence of Nonduality and Humility

Walking the Cosmic Mile

When we speak of enlightenment and spiritual awakening, images of radiant beings, wise sages, and ethereal experiences come to mind. Yet, at the heart of these lofty ideals lies a profound simplicity: the understanding that we are all interconnected, and the ability to empathize deeply with every being we encounter.

Consider the enlightened being who, in a flash of realization, experiences the nondual nature of existence. In this state, the boundaries that separate ‘self’ from ‘other’ dissolve. There isn’t just a connection with all there is; there is the profound realization that one *is* everything. Every tree, every star, every laughing child, and every tear shed in solitude — all of it converges into this singular experience. One is no longer an individual peering out at the universe, but the universe itself looking in every conceivable direction.

Yet, juxtapose this with the experience of the humble Saint who, rather than merging with the universe, takes a deep dive into the souls of individuals. This Saint, in their profound spiritual journey, has walked in the shoes of every person they’ve met. They’ve felt the weight of their struggles, the joys of their triumphs, and the mundane moments in between. While the enlightened being sees the forest, the Saint sees every individual tree, every leaf, and every bird that takes flight from its branches.

While these two experiences may seem opposed, they are, in essence, two sides of the same coin. Both perspectives bring about a profound understanding of interconnectedness and unity. Where the enlightened being grasps the vastness of existence, the Saint recognizes the depth of individual experience. And in their unique ways, both lead to compassion, love, and a deeper connection with all of existence.

Perhaps, then, the journey is not about aspiring to one experience over the other, but in recognizing the value in both. For in the vastness of the universe, there is room for both the cosmic dance of everything and the intimate waltz of individual souls.

Morgan O.  Smith

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

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith