Tag: Spiritual Journey

Illuminating Paths

My Journey as a Youth Worker and the Gentle Intertwining of Meditation Practices

In the intricate dance of life, where every step can be a guide towards growth and understanding, my journey has been beautifully interwoven with my work with youth. During my discussion with Steve James on Guru Viking, I touched upon my role as a youth worker and how my spiritual practices, particularly meditation, have been gently introduced into this meaningful work.

Working with youth, I have been graced with the opportunity to witness the vibrant energy, the unfiltered curiosity, and the boundless potential that resides within each individual. It was not merely a position of guidance but a mutual journey where every interaction, every shared moment, and every exchanged word became a seed for growth, both for the youth and for myself.

I was encouraged to bring my expertise to the table, to share the wisdom and practices that have illuminated my path, with meditation being a significant aspect. Introducing meditation to the youth was not merely a practice of mindfulness but a gentle invitation for them to explore the boundless landscapes within, to navigate through their emotions, thoughts, and experiences with a sense of awareness and presence.

Incorporating meditation into my work with youth was a delicate dance. It was essential to approach it with a sense of openness, allowing the practice to be an invitation rather than an imposition, a path that they could explore with curiosity and find resonance within their unique way.

The intertwining of meditation practices in my work with youth has been a journey of profound learning and beautiful revelations. It has been a witness to the blossoming of awareness, the gentle unfolding of understanding, and the subtle nurturing of a connection with their inner being. It was a reminder that meditation is not merely a practice but a space where one can meet oneself, explore the depths of one’s being, and navigate through life with a sense of presence and connectedness.

Morgan O.  Smith

Watch Enlightened Comedian:

Ep195: Enlightened Comedian

Welcome to Episode 195, “Enlightened Comedian,” where humour meets the profound depths of spiritual awakening. In this episode, we explore the whimsical yet insightful journey of a comedian whose quest for laughter led him to the shores of enlightenment. Through a blend of comedy and consciousness, we delve into a narrative that celebrates the divine gift of laughter and the profound wisdom it unveils. Tune in to this heartwarming episode as we unravel the laughter-laden path to self-realization.

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 Peak Experience

Mount Olympus and Mysticism

To ascend a mountain and stand at its zenith is a profound experience. But to stand atop Mount Olympus, the legendary home of the gods, is to touch a space where the divine meets the mortal. Unlike any other, this mountaintop symbolizes an intersection between the world as we know it and a realm beyond comprehension. What does it mean to attain such an experience? How does this metaphorical journey relate to the mystical peak experiences described by the world’s spiritual seekers?

**1. A Realm Beyond the Senses**

In many religious traditions, mysticism represents an encounter with the Divine, the Ultimate Reality, or the Absolute. These encounters are said to be ineffable, transcending words, and profoundly transformative. Similarly, the summit of Mount Olympus shrouded in myth and legend, exists as a space beyond the ordinary. Both represent realms beyond our senses, places where our ordinary conceptions of reality are challenged.

**2. The Ascent**

The path to mysticism, like the climb to a mountain’s summit, is not without challenges. Doubt, hardship, and uncertainty plague the seeker, testing their commitment and resolve. Yet, it’s through these adversities that transformation occurs. The ascent shapes the soul, refines the spirit, and prepares one for the profound revelations that await at the peak.

**3. Transient Yet Timeless**

Mystical experiences, though often fleeting, leave an indelible mark on the soul. The same can be said about reaching the summit of a great mountain. In that brief moment atop Mount Olympus, one is both part of ancient mythology and the present moment. Time seems to both stand still and move rapidly, offering a glimpse into eternity.

**4. The Return**

Mystical experiences often come with a mandate to return to the ordinary world, bearing the fruits of spiritual insight. Similarly, after reaching the peak, the climber must descend and integrate their experience into their everyday life. They bring back with them a new perspective, a deeper understanding, and a sense of connectedness that enriches their existence.

**5. The Universal Quest**

The legends of Mount Olympus and the experiences of mystics from diverse traditions remind us of a universal human quest: the pursuit of meaning, connection, and a deeper understanding of existence. Whether through meditation, ritual, or scaling a mythical mountain, the journey toward the peak is a timeless endeavour that inspires and challenges us.

In conclusion, with its rich tapestry of legends, Mount Olympus serves as a poignant metaphor for the peak experiences in mysticism. Both offer a transformative journey, a meeting with the transcendent, and a glimpse into realms beyond the ordinary. And in both, the seeker is reminded of the beauty, mystery, and depth of existence.

Morgan O.  Smith

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

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith

Embracing the Void

My Journey from Interconnectedness to the Profound Depths of Nothingness

In the boundless expanse of spiritual exploration, some moments defy the constructs of language and thought, where the self is immersed into an abyss of nothingness, devoid of form, identity, and connection. During my conversation with Steve James on Guru Viking, I touched upon such a moment, sharing an experience where the vibrant tapestry of interconnectedness faded into a profound experience of nothingness.

The spiritual path is often synonymous with a sense of interconnectedness, a realization of the boundless thread that weaves through all of existence, connecting every being, every moment, and every particle in a dance of cosmic unity. However, my journey took an unexpected turn, leading me from the palpable sense of connection to everything into the enigmatic embrace of nothingness.

This shift was not a descent into nihilism, nor was it a negation of the interconnectedness experienced prior. It was an immersion into a state where all forms, connections, and identities dissolved into an infinite void, a space where nothingness was not an absence but a profound presence that enveloped my being.

Experiencing nothingness was not a cessation of existence but a plunge into the very essence of it, devoid of form, thought, and identity. It was a space where the dichotomies of existence and non-existence, self and other, and life and death collapsed into a singular point of indescribable nothingness.

This experience of nothingness, while seemingly paradoxical in the context of interconnectedness, illuminated the evolving and multifaceted nature of the spiritual journey. It showcased that the path is not linear nor bound by the constructs of our understanding and experiences. The spiritual journey is an ever-unfolding mystery, where experiences of interconnectedness and nothingness are different facets of the same indescribable reality.

As I continue to navigate through the infinite landscapes of spirituality, the experience of nothingness serves as a humble reminder of the mystery and unpredictability that defines the spiritual path. It is a reminder that the journey does not adhere to our expectations or understandings but unfolds in its own enigmatic and mystical way.

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

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

Drugs, Mystical Experience, and the Value of Service

A Conversation with Linda & Michael Molina

First and foremost, I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to Linda and Michael Molina for inviting me to share my insights and experiences on their esteemed platform. Our engaging conversation traversed through the realms of spirituality, the use of entheogens, and the profound journey toward self-realization. Here are some of the key points I discussed during our enlightening conversation:

Oneness and Surrender:

One of the pivotal aspects of spiritual growth I emphasized is the practice of surrender and the dissolution of the ego to attain a state of “Oneness” or non-dual awareness. This state transcends the dichotomy of self and other, immersing one into a boundless existence that is the true nature of reality. I posited that the various paths and narratives leading to Oneness are but creations of higher consciousness, serving as a script that guides us through the unfolding drama of self-discovery. The crux of the journey lies in surrendering and opening one’s heart to the myriad experiences that life presents, allowing the essence of Oneness to permeate our being.

Embracing Negative Experiences:

The path toward spiritual enlightenment is not always bathed in light. It often takes us through the dark alleys of our psyche, urging us to confront and embrace our shadows. I shared the importance of welcoming negative experiences or the “dark sides” as integral parts of the spiritual journey. These challenging phases, when navigated with awareness and acceptance, can catalyze profound growth and a deeper understanding of our true nature.

Advice for Spiritual Seekers:

The spiritual expedition is an endless voyage towards the heart of existence. I advised fellow seekers to persevere, even when they stumble upon beautiful or profound experiences. There’s always a deeper level of realization awaiting beyond the apparent zenith. Each step taken on this sacred path unveils a new horizon of understanding, urging us to delve deeper into the mystery of existence.

Philosophical Insight:

Reflecting on the nature of reality, I likened the stories and paths leading to spiritual realization to scripts in a movie, orchestrated by a higher consciousness. These scripts, while seemingly real and consequential, are mere narratives that help make sense of our journey towards Oneness. The ultimate truth lies beyond these scripts, in the boundless realm of pure consciousness where the illusion of separation dissolves, revealing the unadulterated essence of Oneness.

Our conversation was a deep dive into the essence of spirituality, the transformative potential of brainwave entrainment, entheogens, and the boundless journey toward self-realization. I am immensely grateful to Linda and Michael Molina for providing a platform to explore and share these profound truths. Through such enlightening exchanges, we inch closer to unravelling the mystic tapestry of existence and fostering a collective awakening to the inherent unity of all life.

Morgan O.  Smith

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

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith

Watch the episode “Drugs, Mystical Experience, and the Value of Service” below. For more on ESF, check out their channel at https://www.youtube.com/@EmergingSciences

A Return to Guru Viking

An Odyssey into “Bodhi in the Brain”

As the leaves turn golden and the scent of autumn fills the air, my journey with the Guru Viking podcast continues to unfold. I’m ecstatic to share that my third appearance on this enlightening platform with the ever-insightful host, Steve James, is now live for all of you to indulge in.

This episode centers around “Bodhi in the Brain”, a manifestation of my passion, research, and personal experiences. This book is more than just words on paper—it’s a beacon of the transformative power that the Yinnergy meditation brainwave entrainment program harnesses. A program I poured my soul into, mathematically designing and birthing it in the serene month of August 2010. It has since become a transformative tool, sculpting the lives of countless individuals, with me being its first beneficiary.

For those who might’ve missed my initial sojourns on Guru Viking, here’s a glance:

Ep176: The Awakening of Mista Mo – A peek into my spiritual renaissance.

Ep195: Enlightened Comedian – A celebration where humour intertwines with spiritual profundity.

I’d love for all of you to journey with me. Listen, reflect, and maybe, find a part of yourself within these conversations.

🔗 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/

The Theist’s Agnostic Dilemma

On the Quest for Nondual Spiritual Awakening

For as long as humans have looked up to the skies and pondered upon the nature of existence, the question of God’s existence has been a prominent query. Some vehemently assert the presence of divine power, some deny it with equal vigour, while others remain in a state of uncertainty. What’s interesting, however, is the subtle paradox that emerges when one deeply contemplates the nature of belief and knowledge concerning God.

At its core, to be a theist is to believe in the existence of God or gods. This belief often stems from religious teachings, personal experiences, or intuitive convictions. Yet, if we pause and dissect this ‘belief’, we can identify an underlying layer of agnosticism. Agnosticism, in essence, is the state of not being sure about the existence or non-existence of God. While it might seem counterintuitive, the argument can be made that every theist, at some level, is an agnostic.

The reason is simple: to believe is not the same as to know.

Belief is a conviction, a deeply held trust in something, often without empirical evidence. Knowledge, on the other hand, suggests a certainty, a definitive understanding. So, while a theist believes in God, can they truly say they know God exists, in the same way, they know the sun rises in the east?

This uncertainty, this inability to ‘know’ for sure, brings us to the concept of the Nondual spiritual awakening. Nonduality, as a spiritual tenet, postulates that there is no separation between the self and the universe, between man and God. In this awakened state, one doesn’t just believe in God; one realizes or experiences God’s presence in everything. It’s akin to a veil being lifted, revealing a world where the divine isn’t an external entity but is immanent and present in every facet of existence.

Until one reaches this state of Nondual realization, the existence of God remains a matter of faith and belief. The journey from belief to knowledge, in the spiritual sense, is what many spiritual seekers aim for. It’s a transformation from the intellectual to the experiential, from conceptual understanding to living realization.

In conclusion, the theist’s journey, while rooted in belief, inherently contains a quest for certain knowledge. It’s a paradox that every believer grapples with, consciously or unconsciously. While some are content with their faith, others embark on spiritual voyages to seek that elusive Nondual awakening. Whether you’re a believer, an atheist, or an agnostic, the quest for understanding the nature of God and our place in the cosmos is a deeply human endeavour, one that transcends labels and challenges us to think beyond the confines of our current understanding.

Morgan O. Smith

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

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith

A Spiritual Journey with Paramahamsa Vishwananda

Ever since September 3rd, 2019, there has been one figure that repeatedly stands out in my memories, the guiding light that has transformed my life – Paramahamsa Sri Swami Vishwananda.

The journey began at Trinity St. Paul’s in Toronto. On that fateful day, I was fortunate enough to receive darshan from him. For those unfamiliar with this term, darshan is the divine sight – a soul-touching blessing one receives from a spiritually enlightened guru. It’s a deeply personal and transformative moment, where one locks eyes with the guru and dives into an ocean of spiritual energy.

Only a few months after this momentous encounter, in November, I experienced a profound nondual spiritual awakening. This spiritual crescendo further intensified in December when I submerged into a state known as Nirvikalpa Samadhi. This was not just any awakening; it was the death of the ego, a realization of my own Supreme Identity, connecting me to all of existence and beyond.

The reverberations of this awakening persisted. Shortly after, I was swept into a whirlwind of a full kundalini awakening. It was as if every chakra within me came alive, culminating with my crown chakra which unleashed a cascade of radiant lotus petals made out of pure light. To say this was monumental would be an understatement; it was an experience that etched itself deep into my soul.

However, the universe, as always, had its plans. The following year, as the world found itself grappling with a pandemic, physical interactions became a luxury. Undeterred, I, along with several fellow seekers, virtually sought the darshan of Paramahamsa Vishwananda.

Yet, the universe has its rhythm and the circle turned full once again. As the pandemic ebbed, last September, Paramahamsa Vishwananda graced Toronto with his presence. We were fortunate enough to bask in his divine presence, in person. My recent memories bring me to August 26th and then again on September 2nd when a smaller group of us made our way to Elmira, New York, to the serene premises of the Paranitya Narasimha Temple. It was here, in the sacred surroundings, that we received the darshan from Paramahamsa Vishwananda. The gleam in his eyes when he recognized me, the warmth of his smile, and our brief yet impactful conversation – these are memories I cherish. His gratitude towards us for travelling so far was heartwarming. But all I could do was thank him, for the transformation he triggered within me, for allowing me to see myself for who I truly am. It remains the most cherished gift I have ever received.

My spiritual voyage with Paramahamsa Vishwananda is one of love, awakening, and profound transformation. A journey that I hope continues, leading me to further depths and heights of spiritual realizations.

Morgan O. Smith

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

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith

The Paradox of Perfection

Ground of All Being and Maya

The universe, in its vastness and complexity, brings forth a myriad of questions that have perplexed thinkers across generations. One of the most profound concepts to grapple with is the nature of reality itself. Within the philosophical tapestry, two concepts emerge with force and subtlety: the “Ground of All Being” and “Maya”.

**Ground of All Being**

The Ground of All Being is an abstract principle suggesting that there exists an ultimate foundation or source for everything in existence. This ground isn’t a tangible thing but a concept – the idea that there’s an underpinning, unchangeable reality beneath the mutable surface of life. This can be likened to the depths of an ocean where calmness reigns, contrasting with the choppy waves on the surface.

**Maya: The Illusion**

Hailing primarily from Eastern traditions, particularly Hinduism, Maya is the term that describes the world as we see it: a world of illusion, impermanence, and change. Maya doesn’t suggest that the world is fake, but that our perceptions and understandings are limited, sometimes deceiving us from the true nature of reality.

**The Paradox of Perfection**

At a glance, it seems paradoxical: How can a universe so perfect birth what is perceived as imperfection? The beauty of this conundrum is that perfection and imperfection are inherently subjective, shaped by our limited human perceptions and conditioned understandings.

Perhaps the universe is so intricately and impeccably designed that it incorporates imperfection as part of its perfection. Much like a symphony that uses dissonance to make the harmonious notes shine brighter. The imperfections, the fleeting moments, the transient joys and sorrows – they all serve a purpose. They make the canvas of life more prosperous, pushing us to question, seek, and understand.

Imperfections are not flaws but opportunities: windows into deeper layers of understanding, growth, and realization. When we confront Maya, we’re not battling falsehoods but navigating layers of reality, slowly inching closer to the Ground of All Being.

**In Conclusion**

The journey from Maya’s illusion to the Ground of All Being isn’t a path of renunciation, but one of realization. Realizing that the imperfections we see, feel, and experience are not mere aberrations, but intrinsic facets of a grand design. They challenge us, shape us, and push us closer to understanding the paradoxical nature of existence: that within perfection lies imperfection and within imperfection, an underlying, unchanging perfection.

Morgan O. Smith

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

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith

The Veils of Maya

Navigating Illusion in the Quest for Truth

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!

https://linktr.ee/morganosmith