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
From the moment of our conception until our final breath, each of our experiences – no matter how mundane or extraordinary – holds the potential for spiritual growth. This is the core tenet of the Spiritual Development Design Theory (SDDT), which proposes that our lives are intrinsically designed to guide us toward spiritual enlightenment.
Under the purview of SDDT, every aspect of life is purposefully orchestrated. Even before we are born, the cultural, familial, and societal beliefs that will shape our existence lay waiting to impart the spiritual roadmap that will guide us on our journey.
Consider the simple act of brushing your teeth, making your bed, or even sipping your morning coffee. Mundane? Perhaps. But under the lens of SDDT, these everyday routines become spiritual exercises in disguise, avenues to develop discipline, patience, humility, compassion, and gratitude.
Think of the wide array of traditions, cultures, and practices around the globe. Despite their apparent differences, SDDT sees them as different paths leading up the same spiritual mountain, offering varied yet equally valuable lenses through which to interpret the spiritual world.
In SDDT, the changing of the seasons is more than just a shift in weather. Each transition mirrors the spiritual journey itself, echoing the cycle of birth, growth, decay, and rebirth that underpins many spiritual belief systems.
And what about our careers, hobbies, and pastimes? SDDT invites us to consider how these pursuits can either distract us from or contribute to our spiritual growth, depending on our levels of conscious engagement. They can serve as opportunities for creative expression, societal contribution, and purpose fulfillment, thereby aiding spiritual development.
Our relationships, too, are significant under the SDDT. Each person we interact with is seen as a mirror, reflecting aspects of our spiritual selves back at us. These relationships can act as catalysts for our growth, pushing us toward a deeper spiritual awareness.
But what of our possessions? The SDDT acknowledges that they can either be chains that bind us or tools that free us, depending on our attachment to them. It gently nudges us towards the wisdom of detachment, reminding us that true fulfillment comes from within.
SDDT also embraces the fluidity and constant shifting of roles and perspectives throughout our lives. These fluctuations serve as spiritual lessons, pushing us to become more empathetic, compassionate, and understanding of the interconnectedness of life.
Ultimately, the Spiritual Development Design Theory proposes a radical idea: that our journey from cradle to grave is an intricate spiritual odyssey, where every experience is a stepping stone towards the ultimate goal – spiritual enlightenment. This perspective challenges us to approach each day, each encounter, and each challenge as an opportunity for spiritual growth, casting our lives in a profoundly transformative light.
Our journey to enlightenment is a personal path that we all navigate differently. But the understanding that every moment holds the potential for spiritual development is a universal insight that can enrich every life. This is the power and promise of the Spiritual Development Design Theory. So, what spiritual lesson will you uncover today?
Morgan O. Smith
Yinnergy Meditation & My Book, Bodhi in the Brain…Available Now!
Introduction: Just yesterday, I had the privilege of participating in a spirited and thoughtful dialogue as a guest speaker on “The Seekers Mind,” a distinguished forum on Clubhouse, renowned for its intellectual rigour and engaging discourse. The topic of this profound conversation was a thought-provoking question: “To Merge with The Divine – Can The Infinite and Finite Meet?” This insightful exploration brought together a multitude of perspectives, each contributing its own unique colour to the vibrant tapestry of thoughts and opinions. It served as a shared journey into the metaphysical depths of our understanding, a true meeting of minds seeking to grasp the essence of the divine.
In the vast landscape of the spiritual realm, teeming with a multiplicity of views and beliefs, the prospect of ‘merging with the divine’ often stirs up lively debates and discourses. As an absolute monist, I view these differing perspectives as individual facets of the divine itself, each one adding its own depth and dimension to the overall understanding. I recognize the importance of acknowledging various viewpoints, even those that assert a separation between the individual and the divine, considering them valid perspectives in this grand dialogue.
In this blog post, we delve deeper into the intriguing concept of merging with the divine, appreciating the richness of the diverse perspectives that emerged during our discussion. Our exploration is not limited to any one viewpoint but rather seeks to embrace the full spectrum of thought, providing an all-encompassing perspective on this profound topic.
The Absolute Monist’s View: As an absolute monist, I see a fundamental unity that pervades all existence. From this perspective, merging with the divine is a realization that the individual identity is an illusion, and there is a pre-existing oneness that transcends all apparent boundaries. It’s an epiphany that the divine and the individual are not two separate entities, but different expressions of the same ultimate reality, often called Brahman.
Inclusivity of Perspectives: While our discussion last night was thought-provoking, it could only touch on a limited range of perspectives. There are numerous other viewpoints often expressed in conversations about spirituality that I feel are crucial to mention. These perspectives stem from a myriad of beliefs, each born from individuals who perceive themselves as separate from the divine. Recognizing and acknowledging this multiplicity of viewpoints is a fundamental step in embracing the broad spectrum of beliefs in the realm of spirituality. Such acknowledgment lends to a comprehensive understanding of the various ways people interpret and experience the profound concept of merging with the divine. It’s this rich diversity that enriches our collective spiritual journey, offering a multifaceted understanding of our quest to connect with greater power.
Dualism and Separation: Some people adhere to dualistic beliefs, positing a fundamental separation between human and divine. They argue that absolute merging with the divine is impossible because of the inherent distinction between the two realms. From this perspective, practices and rituals serve as conduits to establish a connection with the divine, rather than as a means to achieve complete union.
Pantheism and Immanence: Pantheistic perspectives perceive divinity as immanent in all aspects of existence. Hence, the concept of merging with the divine may be deemed unnecessary as the divine is inherently present everywhere. In this belief system, recognizing the divine nature within oneself and the world can evoke a deep sense of unity and interconnectedness.
Theistic Religions and Union: Various theistic religions offer unique perspectives on merging with the divine. Some emphasize a personal relationship with a transcendent deity, where merging with the divine is interpreted as attaining union or closeness with the divine being. Devotion, surrender, and adherence to religious practices are seen as integral components in seeking this connection.
Agnosticism and Uncertainty: Agnostic viewpoints approach the idea of merging with the divine with skepticism, questioning the very knowability of the divine. They argue that human knowledge and experiences are limited, making it challenging to ascertain whether merging with the divine is a factual possibility. Agnostics often maintain an open-ended stance, acknowledging the limitations of human understanding.
Atheism and Rejection: Atheistic perspectives outrightly reject the existence of any divine entity. From this viewpoint, merging with the divine is considered irrelevant or illusory since there is no divine being to merge within the first place. Atheists often focus on personal growth, societal well-being, and ethical principles as their guiding values.
Philosophical Skepticism and Inquiry: Philosophical skeptics approach the idea of merging with the divine with a sense of inquiry and caution. They contend that such claims often hinge on subjective experiences or unverifiable beliefs, making it difficult to establish their truth. Skeptics advocate critical thinking and challenge unfounded assumptions.
Conclusion: The concept of merging with the divine invites profound contemplation and exploration. From an absolute monist’s standpoint, all beliefs and perspectives emanate from the divine, and is the divine, affirming the unity and interconnectedness of existence. I embrace the understanding that all views, including dualism, pantheism, theistic religions, agnosticism, atheism, and philosophical skepticism, are expressions of the divine exploring itself through different lenses.
In this journey of understanding and merging with the divine, we must approach each perspective with respect, curiosity, and a willingness to learn. By engaging in meaningful dialogue and embracing a diversity of beliefs, we can deepen our understanding of the human experience and the various paths by which people seek connection with the divine.
The question of merging with the divine may not have a definitive answer that satisfies all individuals or belief systems. It is an inherently personal and subjective exploration, shaped by cultural, religious, and spiritual backgrounds. However, the shared recognition of the inherent sacredness of existence and the desire to connect with something greater than ourselves is universally beautiful.
In the grand tapestry of existence, let us celebrate the multitude of perspectives, knowing they all contribute to our rich, ever-unfolding exploration of merging with the divine. Through open-mindedness, compassion, and a willingness to transcend individual identities, we may come closer to experiencing the underlying oneness that pervades all things.
May we continue our exploration in the spirit of unity and understanding, honouring the divine in ourselves and each other, while appreciating the vast tapestry of beliefs and experiences that comprise our collective journey toward merging with the divine.
Morgan O. Smith
Yinnergy Meditation & My Book, Bodhi in the Brain…Available Now!
Introduction: Just as love has an array of shades and intricacies, the journey to spiritual awakening, too, possesses its own unique paths. In this blog, we delve into the concepts of gradual and sudden spiritual enlightenment, drawing parallels to the experiences of deep, growing love and love at first sight. By comprehending the dynamics of these distinct yet interlinked journeys, we can enhance our understanding of love and personal spiritual growth.
Growing in Love and Gradual Enlightenment: The journey towards gradual spiritual enlightenment unfolds over time, with wisdom and comprehension progressively deepening. This pathway resonates with the experience of falling deeply in love, requiring perseverance, commitment, and a readiness to learn from our life experiences.
Falling deeply in love is a slow, transformative process that evolves as we familiarize ourselves with our partner’s attributes and vulnerabilities, as well as the unique bond that unites us. It’s through the mutual journey of growth and self-realization that we begin to deeply appreciate and love one another.
Similarly, gradual spiritual awakening results from continuous effort, introspection, and disciplined practice. It involves fostering mindfulness, ethical behaviour, and wisdom through meditation, learning, and engagement with our fellow beings. This slow and steady process cultivates a deeper understanding of our own selves and the world we inhabit.
Instantaneous Awakening and Love at First Sight: Sudden enlightenment refers to a spontaneous, near-instant, awakening experience. This is often metaphorically described as a lightning bolt of revelation that revolutionizes one’s worldview and comprehension. It can be likened to love at first sight, where the connection between two individuals is instantaneous and overpoweringly potent.
Love, at first sight, is an unexpected, intense attraction that feels predestined, as if two souls were inevitably meant to unite. This overwhelming encounter defies logic and reason, leaving us stunned by the intensity of our feelings.
In a similar vein, sudden enlightenment is marked by a deep, immediate comprehension of reality’s nature. This breakthrough experience is often portrayed as a moment of awakening, where the veil of ignorance is removed, revealing the true essence of our existence.
Embracing Both Journeys: While the paths of gradual and sudden enlightenment might appear distinct, they often intersect. Much like love, at first sight, may deepen over time into a more profound, enduring love, sudden enlightenment can be succeeded by a phase of gradual integration and practice.
Each pathway possesses its unique charm, and the quest for love and enlightenment ultimately relies on our individual experiences, tendencies, and personal evolution. By recognizing the value of both gradual and sudden transformations, we can acknowledge that love and enlightenment are complementary aspects of the same journey, each shedding light and enriching the other.
Conclusion: By exploring the parallels between love and the path to enlightenment, we can foster a deeper appreciation for the spiritual journey central to our human experience. Regardless of whether we experience gradual or sudden transformation, the essence of love and enlightenment remains consistent: a deep comprehension of our interconnectedness and the beauty of our shared existence. By cherishing the distinctiveness of our personal journey, we can open our hearts to embrace love and wisdom in all its diverse manifestations.
Morgan O. Smith
Yinnergy Meditation&My book, Bodhi in the Brain…Available Now!
Expanding Consciousness through Yoga & Meditation Practices
Yoga and meditation present an array of practices that facilitate the exploration of diverse states of consciousness, enhancing individuals’ mindfulness and self-awareness. This blog is dedicated to examining multiple practices associated with gross, subtle, causal, turiya, and turiyatita states of consciousness, illustrating the intertwined nature of these practices in guiding practitioners toward multiple states of awareness.
Gross Consciousness: Exploring the Physical Dimension
The gross state of consciousness, typically associated with waking life, is distinguished by physical and sensory experiences. Practices that emphasize the gross state involve:
Hatha Yoga: With a focus on physical postures (asanas), breath regulation (pranayama), and meditation, this practice supports overall physical and mental health. Vinyasa Yoga: Offering a dynamic fusion of movement and breath, this style of yoga aids practitioners in maintaining mindfulness and presence.
Subtle Consciousness: Journeying into Dreams & Emotions
The dream state, characterized by emotional and mental experiences, reflects the subtle state of consciousness. Techniques concentrating on the subtle state include:
Yoga Nidra: This guided meditation facilitates a state of deep relaxation, mirroring the dream state, and fostering increased awareness. Lucid Dreaming: This practice involves consciously recognizing that you’re dreaming, providing an opportunity to delve into the subconscious mind.
Causal Consciousness: Merging with the Universal Source
The deep sleep state, denoted by unity and an absence of individual identity, resonates with the causal state of consciousness. Techniques accessing the causal state include:
Advaita Vedanta: This non-dual philosophy promotes self-inquiry and contemplation, guiding toward the realization of the ultimate reality beyond individual identity. Shambhavi Mudra: This meditative technique, focusing on the “third eye” or the space between the eyebrows, cultivates internal tranquillity and unlocks the causal state.
Turiya: The Realm of Pure Consciousness
Turiya, the fourth state, is marked by pure consciousness beyond the states of waking, dreaming, and deep sleep. Practices aiming for turiya encompass:
Transcendental Meditation (TM): Utilizing mantras, this meditation technique aims to transcend mental activities and experience pure consciousness. Dzogchen/Mahamudra: These Tibetan Buddhist practices emphasize direct recognition of the mind’s nature, leading to a non-dual experience of reality.
Turiyatita: Surpassing Boundaries and Embracing Integration
Turiyatita, transcending the fourth state, symbolizes the amalgamation of all consciousness states. Techniques fostering turiyatita are:
Sahaja Yoga: Centered on the spontaneous awakening of Kundalini energy, this practice leads to a thoughtless awareness state surpassing all other states. Jnana Yoga: The path of wisdom and self-inquiry dissolves the perceived separation between the individual self and ultimate reality, leading to the turiyatita experience.
Conclusion: Embarking on Your Unique Path
Every individual’s journey to elevated states of consciousness is distinctive. Discovering practices that align with your personal growth and self-exploration is crucial. As you delve into diverse yoga and meditation techniques, maintain an open mindset that your path may comprise various practices and experiences. Cherish the transformative journey and the profound power these age-old disciplines offer.
Morgan O. Smith
Yinnergy Meditation&My book, Bodhi in the Brain…Available Now!
Morgan O. Smith 