Author, Philosopher, Spiritual Teacher, A Lead Facilitator at Sacred Media's Integral Mastery Academy, Founder of Yinnergy Meditation/Neurofeedback, Bodhi Mental Care & Wellness, Co-founder of KeMor Centre for Innovative Development
Embracing the Unity of Existence in the Quest for Spiritual Enlightenment
Spiritual enlightenment is a journey that transcends beyond the tangible realms of reality, reaching into the depths of our very existence. It’s an exploration that delves into the core of what it means to be alive, to be conscious. In this journey, enlightenment is not just a destination; it is a continuous process, a state of being that encompasses everything within and beyond every form.
At its essence, spiritual enlightenment is about realizing the interconnectedness of all things. It teaches us that every form, whether tangible or intangible, is imbued with a certain essence, a spark of the divine. This realization helps us to see beyond the superficial differences that separate us, fostering a sense of unity with the universe and everything in it.
One of the key aspects of enlightenment is the dissolution of the ego. Our egos, often constrained by societal norms and personal biases, can limit our understanding and experience of the world. Enlightenment encourages us to shed these limitations, to see beyond the self and to recognize our part in the larger scheme of existence. This perspective not only brings a deeper understanding of the self but also cultivates compassion and empathy for others.
Furthermore, enlightenment is not an escape from reality but a deeper engagement with it. It involves embracing both the light and the dark aspects of life, acknowledging that both pain and joy are integral to the human experience. This acceptance leads to a profound peace, and inner tranquillity that is unshaken by external circumstances.
In conclusion, spiritual enlightenment is an ongoing journey of discovery, where the destination is not a specific point but a continuous expansion of consciousness. It is about realizing that everything is connected, that there is a deeper meaning to our existence, and that true understanding comes from transcending beyond the self.
Morgan O. Smith
Yinnergy Meditation, Spiritual Life Coaching & My Book, Bodhi in the Brain…Available Now!
Embracing Non-Attachment and Eternal Bliss through Meditation
Creating a state of non-attachment and achieving contentment in life is a journey that many strive for. The key to this profound state of being lies in the practice of meditation, a tool that has been revered for centuries across various cultures for its transformative powers. ### The Illusion of Happiness
Happiness, as we often perceive it, is a fleeting emotion, a temporary state influenced by external circumstances. It’s like chasing the wind – always shifting and changing. This chase can often lead to a cycle of highs and lows, leaving us feeling more drained than fulfilled.
### Embracing Non-Attachment
Non-attachment, on the other hand, is a more stable state. It’s about finding peace and contentment regardless of the situation. This doesn’t mean becoming indifferent or emotionless. Rather, it’s about observing life’s ebbs and flows without being mentally and emotionally consumed.
### The Role of Meditation
Meditation is the bridge that leads us to non-attachment. Through consistent practice, meditation allows us to observe our thoughts and feelings without getting entangled in them. It’s like watching clouds pass by in the sky – they come and go, but the sky remains unchanged. This detachment from our transient thoughts and emotions reveals a deeper truth about our existence.
### Realization of the Self
As one delves deeper into meditation, a realization dawns – that we are the ground of all being. This profound understanding shows us that our true nature is not bound by the transient nature of worldly experiences. We are something more substantial, more permanent.
### Eternal Bliss
This realization paves the way for bliss, which is different from happiness. Bliss is a state of eternal contentment, unshaken by the changing tides of life. It’s a deep, internal fulfillment that does not depend on external factors.
### Conclusion
Non-attachment and bliss are states that can be realized through the practice of meditation. By observing our thoughts and emotions without attachment, we can discover the unchanging truth of our existence, leading to a life of deep contentment and eternal bliss.
Morgan O. Smith
Yinnergy Meditation & My Book, Bodhi in the Brain…Available Now!
In my spiritual explorations, I have come to embrace what the few would call “Nondual Suchness.” This concept represents a transformative journey of consciousness, one that transcends the need for external recognition or validation. It is a path that leads inward, towards a deep, unshakeable peace and a profound realization of universal interconnectedness.
This journey is not about reaching outward for validation or acknowledgment. Instead, it’s about turning inward for self-discovery and self-acceptance. It is here, in the quietude of our inner being, that we encounter the true essence of our existence. This exploration reveals the intrinsic rewards of our inner journey – rewards that are not given by the world but are discovered within the depths of our consciousness.
Embracing Nondual Suchness is about recognizing the interconnected fabric of all existence. It’s about understanding that every thought, every action, and every moment is intrinsically linked to the whole, simultaneously being the whole. This realization brings with it a profound sense of peace, as we begin to see ourselves not as isolated beings, but as integral parts of a larger, harmonious whole.
This path of self-discovery and self-acceptance is an invitation to all. It is a call to delve into the depths of our being, to uncover the peace and understanding that lie within. It is a journey that transforms not just our perception of ourselves, but our perception of the world around us. In embracing Nondual Suchness, we find not just peace, but a deep and abiding joy in the simple act of being.
Morgan O. Smith
Yinnergy Meditation & My Book, Bodhi in the Brain…Available Now!
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!
Many compare life to a race. We’re told to run fast, be the first, and not fall behind. But what if life, particularly the spiritual journey, isn’t about finishing first or even finishing at all? What if it’s a marathon that never ends, where every finish line is simply a starting point for another, deeper quest?
Walking the spiritual path can feel like running a marathon that goes on infinitely. Just when you think you’ve attained enlightenment or reached a higher state of consciousness, another level unfolds. This isn’t to say progress isn’t made, but rather that true spiritual growth is an ever-evolving, never-ending process.
In traditional races, runners have a clear goal: to reach the end as swiftly as possible. But on the spiritual path, the destination is less defined. One might even argue there is no destination. Instead, it’s a continual journey of self-discovery, of understanding, of peeling back layers to find the core of one’s true self.
The beauty of this endless marathon is not in reaching a finish line but in the journey itself. Every step, every challenge, and every revelation is an opportunity for growth and transformation. The hurdles faced along the way aren’t obstacles but lessons, guiding us towards deeper understanding.
In embracing this never-ending journey, we come to see that it’s not about “finishing” or “winning.” It’s about embracing the unknown, learning, evolving, and most importantly, enjoying every step. After all, isn’t the joy of running not in the end but in the very act itself?
When we shift our perspective from a race with an endpoint to a journey without one, we open ourselves to infinite possibilities and depths of understanding. It’s a liberating realization that our spiritual evolution is limitless, bound only by our willingness to keep moving forward.
In conclusion, while the marathon of spirituality may not have a finish line in the traditional sense, it offers something far more valuable: the promise of endless growth, self-discovery, and a deeper connection to the universe and ourselves. So, lace up your spiritual sneakers and embrace the never-ending journey. Because in this marathon, the real prize is the journey itself.
Morgan O. Smith
Yinnergy Meditation & My Book, Bodhi in the Brain…Available Now!
In a world overwhelmingly focused on personal gain and self-promotion, the emphasis on service to others often gets sidelined, taken for granted or worse, perceived as a weakness. Yet, there lies an intrinsic truth waiting to be uncovered – a service we provide for others reverberates back, serving us in a myriad of unexpected ways.
Engaging in acts of service paves the way toward a richer understanding of life, enabling us to transcend the narrow confines of self-centeredness. When we reach out to others, providing aid without any ulterior motive, we transcend the ego, thus laying the foundation for personal growth and self-discovery. The truth is that every act of selfless service propels us into a deeper alignment with the universal law of interdependence. We begin to understand that by nurturing others, we nurture the best within ourselves.
Service to others enhances our empathy, patience, and understanding. It offers a lens through which we can view life from a different perspective, a perspective that’s not tainted by self-obsession but enriched by the diversity of human experience. This shift in perspective is vital for it nourishes the soil in which our transformation can thrive. As we devote ourselves to the service of others, we are inadvertently embarking on a journey of self-exploration, discovering aspects of our being that remain obscure amidst the hustle of self-centred pursuits.
Moreover, service isn’t merely about doing good to feel good. It’s about forging a profound connection with humanity and the world around us. It’s about coming to terms with the fact that our well-being is intrinsically tied to collective well-being.
Furthermore, when we serve others, we send forth a ripple of positive energy into the universe, which in due course, returns to us with amplified benevolence. The universe, in its boundless wisdom, has a way of reciprocating our good deeds, often in forms unanticipated.
This reflective nature of service isn’t about keeping score or awaiting a return on investment, it’s about recognizing that the energy we contribute to the world around us is the same energy that eventually shapes our reality.
So, as we extend our hands to serve others, we are essentially embarking on a path that not only enriches others’ lives but also cultivates a deeper sense of purpose, understanding, and connection within ourselves. Through service, we become a mirror, reflecting the beauty, struggles, and unyielding potential of humanity. In this act of giving, we receive, thus making service a soul-enriching endeavour, a silent yet profound dialogue between selflessness and self-discovery.
Morgan O. Smith
Yinnergy Meditation & My Book, Bodhi in the Brain…Available Now!
In this episode “Bodhi in the Brain” on Guru Viking, a profound exploration of the interplay between the heart and the head in the realm of spiritual growth unfolds. The dialogue between host, Steve James, and me delves into the intrinsic balance that propels the journey of self-discovery and enlightenment.
The narrative posits that the journey toward spiritual growth is akin to a harmonious dance between the heart and the head. It’s not a path of choosing one over the other, but a path of embracing the unique essence and contribution of both. The heart, with its boundless capacity for love, compassion, and intuition, holds the keys to the realms of the unexplored, the unexpressed, and the unified. On the other hand, the head, with its analytical prowess, rationality, and discernment, provides the structure, clarity, and understanding essential for navigating the complex tapestry of existence.
The beauty of this dance lies in the seamless integration of the heart’s intuitive wisdom and the head’s analytical clarity. It’s about fostering a space where the heart and the head are not at odds, but in harmony, each complementing the other, leading to a holistic understanding of the self and the universe.
The dialogue invites us to reflect on the often overlooked balance between the emotional and the intellectual, the intuitive and the analytical. It’s a call to transcend the dualistic approach and step into a space of holistic understanding, where the heart and the head together illuminate the path toward spiritual growth.
This episode “Bodhi in the Brain” is a gateway into a realm where the harmonious dance of heart and head unveils the profound simplicity and beauty of spiritual growth. It’s a reminder that in the journey of self-discovery and enlightenment, the heart and the head are companions, each holding a piece of the puzzle, each illuminating a facet of the truth.
As we embark on this journey of integrating the heart and the head, we are stepping into a space of boundless exploration, where the wisdom of the heart and the clarity of the head together guide us toward the profound depths of spiritual growth.
Morgan O. Smith
Watch Bodhi in the Brain, and previous episodes below:
Ep 220: Bodhi in the Brain
Welcome to Episode 220 of our enlightening series, where today we delve into a profound narrative titled “Bodhi in the Brain.” In this episode, we are joined by a spiritual seeker who shares his riveting journey towards higher consciousness. Through a blend of ancient wisdom and modern neuroscience, we explore the realms of mind and spirit, unveiling a path that bridges the tangible with the transcendental. Tune in as we navigate the intricate dance of existence, and uncover the serene space where the mind meets the infinite.
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.
Ep 195: Enlightened Comedian
Laughter is often said to be a divine gift, but can it also be a gateway to a deeper understanding of our existence? In Episode 195, titled “Enlightened Comedian,” we explore the whimsical yet profound journey of a comedian whose quest for laughter led him to the shores of enlightenment. Through a tapestry of humour, insight, and spiritual awakening, we delve into the heart of a narrative that celebrates the confluence of comedy and consciousness. Tune in to this heartwarming episode as we unravel the laughter-laden path to self-realization and the profound wisdom that accompanies it.
🔗 For those yearning for a transformative meditative experience or eager to delve into the philosophical depth of “Bodhi in the Brain”, the gateway awaits https://linktr.ee/morganosmith 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!
In the vast realm of philosophical inquiry, there is perhaps no question more enduring than that of existence. It is the heart and soul of human curiosity, the root from which all other questions spring forth. But what if the very existence we so ardently seek to understand is nothing more than a shadow cast by Consciousness? A mere reflection, imperfect and dark, of something greater and beyond our grasp?
**Consciousness as the Light**
Consider the sun. It casts both light and shadow and in doing so, defines our reality. In much the same way, Consciousness—our innate awareness, the very essence of our being—could be imagined as the radiant source, illuminating the world we know. But with every light, there inevitably comes a shadow.
**The World as Consciousness’ Shadow**
If our world is the byproduct or reflection of Consciousness, then perhaps it is the imperfect representation—the elements of Consciousness that didn’t fit, the pieces it rejected. Our struggles, our sufferings, and our insatiable quest for understanding might all stem from this inherent imperfection.
Think of the Jungian concept of the “Shadow Self.” Carl Jung, the Swiss psychiatrist, suggested that we all have a part of our personality that we do not consciously acknowledge—a darker, less understood side. This shadow self contains our deepest fears, repressed ideas, desires, and general chaos. Could it be that our entire reality is Consciousness’ own “Shadow Self”?
**Finding Perfection in Imperfection**
It’s easy to view the idea of our world being a “shadow” as negative, but there’s beauty to be found in imperfection. It’s in the cracks, the flaws, where we find character, uniqueness, and growth. Perhaps, by existing within Consciousness’ shadow, we’re given a unique opportunity to explore, question, and evolve.
**Conclusion**
We may never truly know the nature of existence, whether it’s a shadow or something else entirely. But by pondering such questions, by seeking to understand the greater forces at play, we embark on a journey of self-discovery, of understanding the universe, and our place within it.
Morgan O. Smith
Yinnergy Meditation & My Book, Bodhi in the Brain…Available Now!
The labyrinthine nature of existence, adorned with its pleasures and pitfalls, has been a subject of deep contemplation for ages. At the heart of many philosophical inquiries in Hinduism lies the enigmatic concept of ‘Maya’. Far from being a mere illusion, Maya reveals layers of truth, each pointing towards an understanding of the universe and our place in it. **The Cosmic Dance of Prakriti and the Three Gunas**
Imagine the universe as a grand stage, with Prakriti, the primal nature, as the backdrop. From this vast expanse springs forth everything we see, feel, and experience. Yet, what gives rhythm to this cosmic dance?
Enter the Three Gunas – Sattva, Rajas, and Tamas. These are not just passive qualities but dynamic forces shaping our experiences. The serenity of a tranquil lake embodies Sattva, the turbulence of a storm epitomizes Rajas, and the still darkness of the night echoes Tamas. Together, they create a spectrum of experiences in our lives. **The Individual’s Tryst with Ignorance**
Closer to our personal experience is Avidya, the fog of ignorance clouding our perception. Under its influence, we misidentify with our transient selves, overlooking the eternal essence within. It’s like mistaking the waves for the vast ocean.
In this state, we are ensnared by Karma, the ever-entwining web of action and consequence. The Kleshas, those tormenting afflictions, further deepen our entanglement. Desires and aversions play tug-of-war, with the ego stoking the flames.
**The Divine Masquerade**
But is Maya merely a cosmic error or a deceptive trap? Not necessarily. Maya, when seen as the divine power or Shakti, becomes the grand choreographer of the universe’s dance. It’s a divine play, a Leela, where the One chooses to manifest as many, experiencing itself through myriad forms. **Beyond Duality: The Advaita Perspective**
The school of Advaita Vedanta offers a profound insight. It suggests that beneath the multiplicity lies a singular truth, the Brahman. Maya, in this view, is the sublime artist crafting the many from the one, making the undivided appear divided.
**Conclusion: The Play and Beyond**
Maya, far from being a mere illusion to discard, becomes a lens to navigate our existence. It offers lessons, challenges, and experiences, pushing us to question, understand, and ultimately transcend.
In the dance of Maya, we are both the dancer and the audience. The key lies in recognizing the play, enjoying its beauty, and seeking the truth beyond the performance. In this quest, we don’t just find answers about the universe, but also about ourselves.
Morgan O. Smith
Yinnergy Meditation & My Book, Bodhi in the Brain…Available Now!
In the labyrinthine corridors of the soul, there lies a path seldom tread, shadowed by mystery and often enveloped by fear. It is a path that leads to a place known as the “dark night of the soul,” a phase of spiritual desolation that has baffled seekers across generations. Yet, within the enigmatic darkness, emerges an unexpected companion – the “dark knight of the soul.”
The Dark Night: A Crisis of Faith
The “dark night of the soul,” a term coined by St. John of the Cross, represents a profound spiritual crisis, a period where the familiar becomes strange, and the divine seems distant. It is a time of purging, where doubts, fears, and the hidden shadows of the soul rise to the surface. The comfort of belief evaporates, replaced by a void that challenges the very core of spiritual identity.
In the “dark night,” one is forced to confront the most profound existential questions. What is the nature of divinity? Why does it seem so elusive? What is the purpose of suffering? The answers are not easily found, and the path becomes obscured.
The Dark Knight: The Warrior Within
In contrast to the disorienting emptiness of the “dark night,” the concept of the “dark knight of the soul” represents a heroic inner archetype. It is the spiritual warrior within, forged not in battles against external foes but in the internal struggles against one’s demons.
The “dark knight” is not a saviour but a guide, a symbol of the courage, resilience, and wisdom needed to navigate through the night. It embodies the willingness to face the darkness, wrestle with doubt, challenge fears, and integrate the shadows rather than shunning them.
The “dark knight” does not vanquish the night but learns to dance with it, finding grace in struggle and meaning in confusion.
The Dance of Darkness and Light
The interplay between the “dark night” and the “dark knight” is a profound spiritual odyssey. One cannot exist without the other. The “dark night” provides the terrain, the challenge, and the abyss that must be crossed. The “dark knight” offers the tools, the strength, and the inner fire that illuminates the way.
In this spiritual dance, the darkness is not something to be feared but embraced. It is a crucible where the false self is burned away, leaving only the authentic soul, raw and unburdened.
The path through the “dark night” is not a path of despair but a journey toward enlightenment. The “dark knight” is not a symbol of battle but a metaphor for inner harmony.
Conclusion
The journey through the “dark night of the soul” and the guidance of the “dark knight of the soul” offers a rich tapestry of spiritual exploration. It reminds us that darkness is not an end but a beginning, a transformation that leads to a deeper connection with the self and the divine.
In embracing both the “dark night” and the “dark knight,” we find a roadmap to authenticity, wisdom, and a spirituality that transcends superficial understanding. The darkness and the knight are not foes but partners, leading us toward a horizon where the soul’s true radiance shines.
The odyssey through the dark night is an invitation, a calling to all who seek. The dark knight awaits, a silent companion ready to guide us through the shadows into the embrace of our luminous essence.
Morgan O. Smith
Yinnergy Meditation & My Book, Bodhi in the Brain…Available Now!
Morgan O. Smith 