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#Loss_of_Soul
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Michael Meade (here, Loss of Soul),
Bill Plotkin (see Soul Encounter),
Richard Rohr (see Soul is the Blueprint),
Carl Jung (see Mytho-Poeticmp),
David Whyte (see All the True Vows),
Wayne Teasdale (see InterspiritualityΛ),
Rumi, Joseph Campbell, Albert Einstein,
and many others agree, in varying ways & degrees:
our most urgent challenge is...
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| " |
...to solve the problem of the loss[*] of Soul[Ι]
throughout the modern world.
Part of what has been lost in the
reckless rushing of modernity
is the sense that each life has
an authentic interior that shelters
important . . .
inherent purpose;
and that
the dignity of existence
includes a necessary instinct
to unfold the
unique story woven
inside each . . . Soul. "
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| ~ |
Michael Meade
The Genius Myth
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*Loss
being more a lack of appreciation, honoring & seeking.
Every SoulΙ is immortal;
Soul-itudeΣ
is always achievable.
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1st:
Presenceρ...
Sanctuary~
–
Non-FearΩ
(Re-Wilding‡,
Healing,
Wholing⌖)
2nd:
Transcendentts
Inter-SpiritualityΛ
(The WholeΘ,
JusticeĴ,
Interconnectednessui,
& Eco-Awarenessξ)
3rd:
Inscendentis
Soul-itudeΣ
(Realizingλ Our Place & Purposeπ as
Stewards & Companionsж with Mother Earthξ)
4th:
Emergence
(Engagementε
in Loving Communitylc
A Great Re-Wholing of All Beings →)
~ Whispers-with-ForestsΞ
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Prologue
Context & Motivation
Activity & Findings
Getting There...
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Context & Motivation
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This is a document that helps me to contemplate, explore, share, & learn more about...
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who I am
&
why I'm here
&
how I fit
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based on my personal ideas and inner sense of spirituality§, mysticism::, and philosophy, and my ideas and sense about how those inner views relate InterspirituallyΛ and societally, more broadly – considering:
- non-proselytizing; this is me – I would love to hear about you...
- the richness of world wisdom;
- the diversity of religious & spiritual traditions;
- the dynamics between rationalism & benevolent mysticism; and
- the challenging state of our world and the global crises in which we find ourselves; not just rights... not just responsibilities... but structural, systemic and
interspiritual justice...
(see Justice TopicsĴ)
#Kindness_is_an_Oasis
Any one of those challenges and crises would be bigger than me – at a societal level – but I have a part to play: a place within The WholeΘ from which to act in supporting my communitylc to address them at various scales... especially Sanctuarial~ JusticeĴ...
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Kindness is an Oasis
[Harboring in Sanctuary]
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| " |
For the ones who’ve had to be brave for too long. For those who wonder what’s become of their dream. For you who question where you are in life. For somebody worried about their resources or the heart who’s anxious in an ever-changing sphere. For everyone who is grappling with a sudden loss or bewildered by transition. For the person being dealt a cruel blow. For someone coping with a personal challenge. For whoever is managing an illness or disease. For anybody out there showing up for each day while living with heartbreak or grief...
We’re all climbing a private hill,
weighed down with our own bundle of struggle,
while being tamed into carrying our suffering quietly
in a savage world.
Yet, we’re valued by a much larger grace
consistently teaching us about patience,
connecting us to empathy,
reminding us of our fragility
and asking us to make a pact
to treat every living being
with kindness.
So let kindness be your daily ritual.
Let it flow from the wellspring of your heart... "
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| ~ |
Susan Frybort
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Sanctuary~ is a "place" to harbor with Kindness.
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Activity & Findings
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It is easy to get lost... in all of the details in this document — as interesting as they may be to me 🤓 — but the most distinct outcomes of this exploration are:
- My mytho-poeticmp metaphor & identity:
- The Purposeπ and humilityη I have realizedλ through Soul-itudeΣ
and Non-ismsΩ:
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This is why I'm here !
-
Always discerning: What is mine to be?Ω with presenceρ and humilityη. ☺️
- Realizingλ my Eco-Centricξ place within the Living System of The Earth.
- Companioning to journey with others to find Sanctuary~ from the pressures & noises of the world & its demands – to allow for Soul-itudeΣ.
- Growing in personal & mutual wholeness⌖ and building loving communitylc.
- Being at peace and in league with The WholeΘ and its diversity.
- My intentionι & engagement ε to be an Inter-Spiritual Companionж & Catalyst∬ by 2024:**
-
This is how I fit !
- Practicing something like the Manzanita Companioning-to-Wholeness Model⌘.
- My aptitude is with individuals & small groups – not broad, political, nor organizational contexts.
- My purposefulπ engagementε & impact is cummulative along with others within The WholeΘ: I need not be more than what is mine to beΩ.
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#I_Alone
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| " |
I alone cannot change the world,
but I can cast a stone across the waters
to create many ripples. "
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| ~ |
Mother Teresa
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...and, as I plant and nourish seeds
they may slowly but resiliently grow,
and they may also cast many ripples
and plant/nourish many other seeds.
~ Whispers-with-ForestsΞ
contrast Joseph Campbel:
Change the World
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- Be humbleη and kind about how to engageε – NamasteN 🙏
- I am learning how to be more skillful at all of this with time & experience.
- Prerequisite study and credentialing in Interfaith/Inter-SpiritualΛ Ministry**
One Spirit Interfaith Seminary: Rev. Scott Godlew, Ordained June 7, 2023 ✓
- The Art of Spiritual Direction (& Companioning) at Ghost Ranch
▹ Fall of 2023 → Spring of 2025 →
- Further study and discovery of Soul-itudeΣ through Animas Valley Institute and other avenues.
- Further study and discovery of deep listening through Center for Courage & Renewal: Circles of Trust... Clearness Committees... and other avenues.
- Further study and discovery of Eco-Centrismξ as a Master Naturalist and through other avenues.
- Continuing involvement at church – UUCUC:
- Blending part-time technology work as needed to keep the lights on.
- Theresa (Dancing-Heartmp,
my wife) and I intendι to work with others who match and complement our collective vision and aptitudes in an emerging venture named Wild Heart Seed Wisdom Center, LLC.
- Development of the RoadRunner Coyote Retreat in Coyote, NM
▹ 40 acres, 3272 State Rd 96, Coyote, NM 87012
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" Tell your story...
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SHOUT IT‼️
Write it.
(whisper it if you have to.)
But tell it.
Some won't understand it.
Some will outright reject it.
But many will thank you for it.
And then...
the most magical thing will happen.
One by one,
voices will start whispering,
'Me too!'
[or, 'Let's explore!']
[or, 'maybe we're companions...']
And your [community] will gather.
And you will never feel alone again. "
~ L.R. Knost
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Getting There...
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Here is an over-simplification of how I have found my way...
- I lived a typical, substantially successful, ego-centric life up to about age 54.
- My Soul was mostly obscured by the modern Western mode of success, along with some unresolved wounds and shadows.
- I had some senses that there were more soul‑centric and mystical:: sources of wisdom with which I had some encounters from time-to-time,
as described throughout this document, even if I may have been unable to articulate these concepts in this way at the time –
and unable to recognize the pertinence of the senses in the way I do now.
- I had some initial glimpses of my Soul in a few earlier stages: some in my later teen years associated with VBYC, and maybe again in my 30s to attempt a career in Psychology.
- Darkness emerged in 2017...
- My divorce broke me open... burned me to ashes... blew me away...
- Although I did not become unemployed, the job with which I had hoped to retire moved away
and the remaining work changed beyond my capacity to adapt at that place –
moving was not for the state of mind in which I found myself...
- I instinctively began to explore into venues of Sanctuary~ to allay my fearsfr... I can remember distinct phases of sanctuary and fear transcendence...
- Finding my soulmate gave me companionshipж for the journey ahead — I did at least have sense enough to believe this when I found her: Theresa Benson, Dancing‑Heartmp.
- We met at church (UUCUC) – we were never Psychologist-and-Client – even though I greatly appreciate her wisdom as a Psychologist and so much more – NamasteN 🙏
- The parts, wounds, shadows, and Ego of Self must become integrated and whole (rough, hard work!)... allowing openness/surrendersu to the purpose of my identity.
- At first, a renewing light enters gradually through the cracks – and then, as wholeness is refined, a foundation of assurance supports an expanding source of light from within that satisfies Ego's need for safety.
- Ego protects – at least temporarily and promptly masks
fearsfr
– and we must re-address and re-integrate as many fears as we can in a safe Sanctuary~.
- This is largely an act of self-love; self-acceptance; regathering of and rising from the ashes; and arriving into a space of non-attachment to rational misconceptions that obscure a truth that may include mysticism:: and
spiritual§
elements within the real world.
| " |
I am not my hair
I am not my skin
I am the soul
that lives within. "
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| ~ |
Rumi
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- Inscendenceis
reveals Soul's mytho-poeticmp identity/purpose as a facet of The WholeΘ.
- As a reult of exploring various venues of Sanctuary~, my SoulΙ revealed its strongest voice of mytho-poeticmp metaphor:
- The Self integration work and
authenticA
Soul-itudeΣ allow for the Ego to realize and surrendersu/flow with purpose, supported by authenticA assurances of safety within Sanctuary~.
- This is a step of going beyond Self to find one's place within The WholeΘ.
- Loitering in Sanctuary~ is not practical, so joining loving communitylc is essential for moving forward with Purposeπ – making sure to preserve the ability to re-connect with Sanctuary~ as needed to renew a sense of safety.
- All Souls are facets of The One WholeΘ – no purpose will be in conflict with another, even as they may be vastly different or closely coordinated.
- All the diverse religious/spiritual traditions and individual humanist perspectives of the world contribute to Inter‑SpiritualΛ
synergy in their own ways – all are interconnectedui and necessarily included in The WholeΘ.
- We find communitylc with those for whom we have an affinity of purpose and understanding and need to grow and engage – loving communitylc and companionshipж.
- An important step is to understand how our place in The WholeΘ truly relates to ALL of The WholeΘ, and how to be good stewards: supporting wholeness⌖ both within and beyond our communitylc.
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Perhaps all our faith, belief, hope, & intention is what allows a trust in the diversity of
psycho-spiritualism to overcome separateness & transcend toward peaceful unity in...
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A Great Re-Wholing of All Beings →
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| " |
We are our world knowing itself.
We can relinquish our separateness.
We can come home again –
and participate in our world
in a richer,
more responsible
and poignantly beautiful
way than
before, in our infancy. "
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| ~ |
Joanna Macy
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skip metadata ↓
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Preliminary Metadata:
symbols, terms, navigation, formatting...
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Appropriation...?
nay: Honoring, Affirming, Dignifying: Distinct & Unified; Inter-related...!ui
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Some considerations about traditional/religional/cultural Appropriation
–
and my personal adventure into presence, encounter, and contemplation of the universe, identity, meaning, & purpose... 💐
in an Inter‑SpiritualΛ context:
- ideas in this document originating from various traditions are attributed as such to the degree that I am aware.
- some ideas are so embedded within the broader culture, or incorporated into our foundations of learning, or hidden in assumptions we have of common knowledge, they evade our awareness of their origins. 🤓
- I wonder if the most hurtful forms of cultural appropriation emerge from "repackaging" the original mysticism:: and actual mytho-poeticmp metaphors (images, terms, narratives, practices, ceremonies, celebrations, deities, etc.) out of context from how they originate in the source traditions...
- see One Spirit "Interspirituality" (common ground; "shared spiritual heritage.")
- When a "shared spiritual heritage" truly underlies specific metaphors from multiple traditions, then it is likely that unique metaphors would have emerged based on the other unique aspects of the traditions.
- A more true integration of the shared elements into the context and metaphors of different traditions would emerge as unique Inter‑SpiritualΛ revelations rather than supersession of one tradition's metaphors into another tradition.
- there are difficult cases, such as traditions that split from each other; for example the various Abrahamic traditions; and terms like God, Soul, and Spirit have become difficult to nail-down due to subtle differences in meaning in different traditions. (I dedicate a major section of this document to each of these three terms!)
- but there are clearer cases of supersession, such as how Christianity has assimilated many Earth-Based traditions into the fold. (e.g., St. Brigid, Christmas Tree)
- another perspective of hurtful appropriation is when any representation of symbols or principles of a tradition are twisted and projected back onto the source by those who either do not understand or have imposing or malicious intent.
- references to other traditions are intended for the possibility of further enrichment for myself or anyone who may find interest to understand other perspectives more expansively. 🌎
- sometimes the references – perhaps from different sources/traditions – reveal similarities or juxtapositions that are fascinating or perplexing. 🤔
- it is often the combination of ideas that will offer greater truth or greater meaning through further contemplation and integration (e.g., Ubuntu & Interbeingui.)
- one could loosely compare the diligent discernment of similarities and differences of candidate concepts of "shared spiritual heritage" to be analogous to the scientific methods used in meta-analysis – with a more subjective purpose, in this case, being to identify common ground not previously realized as opportunity(ies) to achieve A Great Re-Wholing of All Beings.
- I am free to believe as I may find honestly integrated through my own authentic Soul-itudeΣ, and if I am inspired by others, or if principles important to my belief are revealed by others,
this can be seen as part of the common ground or "shared spiritual heritage" of mysticism:: and Inter‑SpiritualityΛ. ☺️
- my integration of a traditional idea may not be exactly as held by "practitioners" of the originating tradition,
but the greater truth revealed at the level of "shared spiritual heritage" remains as a foundation. 🙏
- the most common themes I have encountered across many traditions are:
- some notion like Ubuntu & Interbeingui: A person is a person through or interdependently with other people or souls or, indeed, with all of creation.
- we are to have compassion and love for ALL of God's creation.
- to become one with God through peaceful, Soulful purpose realized and surrenderedsu-to by EgoΙ.
- ...and likely there are many other candidates for common ground.
- we actually need to find as much common ground and as many common themes as possible. 🌞
- I don't know how you do any of these things without a personal spiritual§ grounding and an Inter‑Spiritual sense of communitylc. 🌈
- I love finding common ground. ❤️
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OK... Let's go...!
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Introduction:
My Psycho-SpiritualS
Mytho-Poeticmp Adventure
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SPsycho-Spiritual: Of or pertaining to the relationship between spirituality§ & the mind.
This is my Psycho-SpiritualS story...
not to persuade anyone to give up their own beliefs nor views...
not an argument nor apology...
just a way to let others know my way of being and exploring and struggling...
a story that - with due
humilityη
and respectΡ
- is authentically real to me beyond any protests of any sort...
a story that is ever-evolving...
and I gratefully receive ever-more enriching expressions from other stories into my contemplations and discernments of how
to authentically BE in my most humble best way!
This is a story about searching... (re-)discovering... being curious... exploring... going on an adventure... stretching beyond what's familiar... paying attention to intuition... allowing
mysticism::
to be an informative source of knowing... falling in love with The Whole of creation... (re-)uniting Ego and Soul... revealing my purpose... discerning what is mine to be... emerging into and engaging with loving communitylc...
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#Hopi_Creation_Story
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“I want to hide something from the humans until they are
ready for it. It is the realisation that they [co-]create their
own reality.”
The eagle said, “Give it to me. I will take it to the moon.”
The Creator said, “No. One day they will go there and find it.”
The salmon said, “I will bury it on the bottom of the ocean.”
The Creator said, “No. They will go there, too.”
The buffalo said, “I will bury it on the Great Plains.”
The Creator said, “No. They will cut into the skin of
the earth and find it even there.”
Grandmother, who lives in the breast of Mother Earth, and
has no physical eyes but sees with spiritual eyes, said,
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“Put it inside of them.”
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And the Creator said,
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“It is done.”
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~ A Creation Story, originating from the Hopi Nation
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There is a life-force
within your Soul,
seek That life.
There is a gem
in the mountain of your Body,
seek That mine.
O Traveler,
if you are in search of That,
don't look outside,
look inside Yourself
and seek That.
~ Rumi
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This is not autobiographical in any complete sense.
It includes material that would contribute autobiographically in a more narrow sense of mapping my psycho-spiritualS journey.
Using historical reference points and targets for the purposeful future, and using my present situation as a fulcrum,
a course can be charted to shape the way I show up in the world.
At best, my perspective might be another reference or footnote in someone else's story of self-examination and discernment, and I do not expect others to accept my perspective – without their own enrichments and blending – or at all.
I am like a prophet unto myself... and yet not isolated, as you will see how I have referenced and borrowed and enriched concepts from the wisdom of a variety of traditions and a variety of thought leaders that ultimately draw their foundations from a common source running deeply throughout our collective unconsciousness.
The variety of ways this source is revealed and emerges into thoughtful and authentic traditions is evidence of the need for any of us to thoughtfully and authentically and spiritually and soulfully discern those traditions along with our own mytho-poeticmp metaphors that are revealed to us from this deep source.
We all have unique stories... unique presence and purpose... and unique perspectives.
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The Whole... The Soul... & The Spirit-u-oul...
...that which is The DivineΔ ALLΘ;
...that which is a DivineΔ facet of The ALLΘ within All;
...that which expresses the DivineΔ intention/energy which influences All...
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Inter-SpirituallityΛ plays strongly in my journey, and shows up in more than the predominantly extant narratives.
Creating a Culture of interfaith, transfaithtf, and interspiritual acceptance, engagement, and mutual belonging to our shared humanity is critical.
I go deeper with how it shows up at a soulful and mytho-poeticmp / metaphorical level, and how soulful connections through The Whole facilitate integrity, peace, and loving communitylc – at any scale!
Inter‑Spirituallity is foundational to my own purpose as revealed through my Soul-itudeΣ, and to any broader purpose revealed through the Souls of collective entities, such as the Living System of The Earth, Forests, and loving communitylc, among others.
I also have a dream of a
Great Re-Wholing of All Beings
that emerges from my deep view of Inter-Spirituality.
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Mapping My Journey
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These Four Foundations that follow are what allow this story to shine from the dark and illuminate the paths over which I have journeyed and may journey upon.
They are what I believe and take on faith as a result of revelation, discovery, and guidance through the years.
I cannot take credit for all of the individual details, but my
SoulΙ,
in its place
within The WholeΘ,
as revealed by
Soul-tudeΣ,
gives shape to the foundation in which they all fit. The subsequent supplemental elements bring more clarity, concreteness, and the miracle of
Purposeπ
into my embodied living.
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| • |
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Earlier Topics
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Here are links to topics prior to this map in the document:
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Four Foundations
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| I. |
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The Whole:
The DivineΔ All
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Θ - The Infinite Body, The Great Mystery, Great Spirit, One God, Universal Soul. Neo-Eco-Soulismξ / Animismα
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| II. |
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Inter‑Spiritual:
Whole, Soul & Spirit at Scale
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Λ - The energy and connection we experience when we are open to soulful common ground and hear its voice as if from our own Soul... How do we work together and build loving communitylc?
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| III. |
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Soul-itude:
Soul-Centered Mytho-Poetic Revelation
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Σ - A state of (me/EgoΙ) being deeply familiar with, in close companionship with, or in true communion with my Soul; A "still, small voice," speaking with mytho-poeticmp metaphors. Soul-centered spiritual§ origin of eco‑centric purpose. Finding Sanctuary~ to allay fears of Ego.
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| IV. |
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Non-isms
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Ω - Non-Attachment / Non-Forcing / Non-Dualism:
Humble being, humble intentionι, humble presenceρ
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Supplemental Revelations, Realizations & Refinements
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| v. |
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Philosophical Framework
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Φ - Motto, expanded & evolved: Realizing more presence, purpose, and non-attachment, and incorporating eco-spiritual wholing and mytho-poeticmp identity
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| vi. |
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Justice Topics
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Sanctuarial Justice, Demographic Justice, Ecological Justice, Economic Justice, Ethical/Legal Justice
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| vii. |
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My
Mytho-Poetic Identity
& Revelation
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Ξ - Fruit of Soul-itudeΣ:
Sanctuary~ & wellspring of
eco-centric wholing & souling...
root of authenticity...
seat of humility...
home base of gratitude...
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Whispers-with-Forests
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who I am...
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| viii. |
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Purpose
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π - Guiding Mission real-ized from The Whole, through Soul‑itudeΣ and Inter-Spiritual revelation; informing my Philosophical mind; tempered with Non-isms...
My consciousψ place in The World
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why I'm here...
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| ix. |
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Strategy
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σ - Using Presenceρ & Purposeπ to Chart My Courseχ...
The future is unpredictable: take heed of non-attachment
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| x. |
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Emergence
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χ - Spiritual§ History, Broader Presence, & Purposeful Chart for My Courseχ Ahead – Intentionι to Action: Engagement ε
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| ••• |
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The Gamma Quadrant
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Γ - Convergence of Intentionι
Inter-Spiritual Companion and Catalyst
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how I fit...
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| • |
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Major Footnotes
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τ β δ ζ - Wounds, shadows, and Ego-constructed-defenses that require healing, connecting, and integration... further growth and wholing... self-care...
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| • |
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Later Topics
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Here are links to other topics later in the document:
Relations, Memories, Spirits →
Pyramid of Being: Body, Mind, Spirit, Soul →
Bottom of Page →
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Foundation I:
ΘThe Whole
The DivineΔ ALL...
...that of which we are all parts, and yet with which we are One
Trans-Faithtf
— Non-religious: NamasteN 🙏
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ΘThe Whole
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| • |
The Great Mystery,
Great Spirit,
The Infinite Body,
Universal Soul,
One God,
Allah / al-ʾIlāh  / The God –
The DivineΔ ALL.
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| ≻ |
The Whole is all of us and we are all facets of The Whole –
The Whole is everything and everything is a facet of The Whole –
The Whole is present in everything and everything is in The Whole:
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| ◊ |
people...
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| ◊ |
all living beings...
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| ◊ |
The Earth & all it comprises (especially its natural resources and the environment)...
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| ◊ |
The Universe and all it comprises...
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| ◊ |
The Wilderness‡...
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| ◊ |
and phenomena we don't yet realize...
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| ≻ |
There is no separation between The Whole and creation.
but Ego obscures and represses divinity within us to defend us from perceived danger, vulnerability, and exploitation, and to maintain status and control.
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| • |
Inter-Faith, Trans-Faithtf, and Inter-Spiritual – non-religious |
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| ≻ |
not just aware and accepting: engaged ε and companioningж... all belong |
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| ◊ |
non-religious: my way is not the only way – NamasteN 🙏 I honor the divine wholeness within you. |
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| ◍ |
there is mutual humulity and gratitude when we can authentically meet on common ground. |
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| ▦ |
this common ground must exist if you are even reading this... |
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| ◍ |
we must go beyond friends, fellow congregants, and generally agreeable and advantaged folks.
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| ◍ |
EgoΙ must discover & real-izeλ through Soul-itudeΣ, its humble way of being within The Whole.
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| ▦ |
non-religious, I say again... no one else needs to see it my way - see with your own eyes:
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| □ |
how do we even share ideas of any sort...? beauty...? loving kindness...? compassion...?
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| □ |
how do any of the quotes/references in this document strike you as pertinent or not...?
- Susan Frybort
- Jesus of Nazareth
- Rumi
- Pema Chödrön
- Various Indigenous Peoples
- John Lennon
- Sharon Salzberg
- Joseph Campbell
- Joanna Macy
- Desmond Tutu
- Anne Lamott
- Thích Nhất Hạnh
- Mother Teresa
- Richard Rohr
- Bill Plotkin
- Athey Thompson
- Albert Einstein
- Mary Oliver
- Wendell Berry
- etc...
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| □ |
even if seen otherwise, concern is expressed based upon an underlying common ground.
(this may seem argumentative, but it all swirls within my own head 🙏)
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| ≻ |
not without cultural & spiritual§ sources of wisdom from:
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| ◊ |
Abrahamic Traditions (Jewish, Christian, Islamic, and so many variants...)
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| ◍ |
jJesus of Nazareth (Jesus Christ: Ἰησοῦς Χριστός) – a gift to humanity in his unique Soul-itudeΣ and Inter-SpiritualΛ sensitivity and wholeness – his message was a prominent part of my cultural initiation, although I am technically not, and authentically realize I am not, a true "Christian."
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| ▦ |
he has enlightened any who would see an example in his life & message – a true spiritual§ teacher and a revered guide to Soul and The Whole.
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| ▦ |
his mytho-poeticmp identity as "Son-of-God" gives him purpose to be what is his to be – as a fellow inter-spiritual traveler: a brother of mine in The Whole.
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| ▦ |
he informs, inspires, and offers harmony to many revelations from my own spiritual§ journey in Soul-itudeΣ, and to many Inter-SpiritualΛ connections within my loving communitylc, and extending to others via common ground.
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| ▦ |
his legacy is tainted by politics, proselytizing tactics, and mis-appropriations over 2000+ years – how privileged white men have manipulated the message.
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| ◍ |
iIslam as revealed by Allah / al-ʾIlāh / The GodΘ ... to/through Muhammad ibn Abdullah (مُحَمَّد بنِ عَبْد ٱللَّٰه) – another gift to humanity in his purpose to meticulously and artistically render revelations received by him into the Koran, and to navigate the hostility brought to him and early Muslims while also guiding peaceful people to loving communitylc.
|
| |
| ▦ |
if Judaism and its Prophets offer revelations of the vessel and loving container created by The One GodΘ, and Jesus the Prophet and resulting Apostles and Gospels offer revelations of the golden light of GodΘ used to repair/reconcile the fractured vessel/people and invite others to come in through the spaces left open for them, then Islami fills the vessel with a way of living in loving communitylc within that vessel, as revealed by GodΘ to Muhammad the Prophet (peace be upon him). 🙏
|
|
|
| ◊ |
Far Eastern Traditions (Hindu, Buddhist, Taoist, Confucian, again variants...)
|
| |
| ◍ |
Non-ismsΩ – non-nonism – just humility through some non-dualistic non's
|
| |
| ▦ |
Tao / Wu wei – humble intent: non-forcing; non-doing; being what is mine to be.
|
| ▦ |
Buddhism / Non-Dualism – koans; not yes, but not no...
|
| ▦ |
Hindu / Non-Attachment – presence with reality; non-indulgence of wishfulness.
|
|
|
| ◊ |
Eco-Centered, Earth-Centered, and/or Pagan Traditions (Indigenous Peoples, Celtic, Goddess, Wicca, Greek – I hold these in very high esteem)
|
|
Yaima,
♪♪ Ovo ♪♪ ← iTunes (album)
soulful music as a narrative for the cycle of the seasons
|
|
| |
| ◍ |
αAnimism
|
| |
| ▦ |
spirit/soul are in:
|
| |
| □ |
all living, material, and cosmic stuff: all have a purpose and a place within The WholeΘ.
|
| □ |
all life/liminal forces: such as The Holy SpiritΛ, but spiritual§ energy emanates from all SoulsΙ.
|
| □ |
sacredΔ places: if you (or anyone) believe a place is sacred, then it is – the (inter‑)spiritual§ energy you (and others) have planted there give it or add to its SoulfulΙ identity: enriched purpose and place within The WholeΘ.
|
|
|
| |
| ▦ |
Animism draws EgoΙ to align presenceρ and purposeπ with the well-being of The Earth,
The Environment, and all Life & Resources of Our World as a Living Wilderness‡ System
|
| |
| □ |
Pray/ask: What does The Earth need to be whole...? The Forest...? The Sky...? All Water...?
|
| □ |
Then just meditate... wait... listen for their song... feel their joy or pain... embody their loss or gain...
|
| □ |
This will deepen my mytho-poeticmp metaphor of my place in The World... my place in The Whole.
|
|
|
| ◍ |
pePanentheism
|
| |
| ▦ |
Panentheism differs from Pantheism in that The WholeΘ is more than just an inventory of all things in the universe.
|
| |
| □ |
There is a
Transcendingts
DivineΔ
Wholeness⌖
that inspires, influences, and permeates everything.
The Divine is both transcendent and offers an immanent Presence within everything – its
SoulΙ.
|
| □ |
All things have Souls that are facets of The WholeΘ, and The WholeΘ is that upon which facets may exist at all.
-
Containers and complexities of all sorts have soulful facets of their own –
e.g. The Earth!
|
|
|
| ◍ |
pgPagan & Goddess Traditions – overlap w/many Indigenous Traditions
– generally, pre-dating everything else by longer than they have existed
|
| |
| ▦ |
Goddess as self-complete in the divine feminine, but needing God (and having created him) as the divine masculine to illuminate her beauty and to activate her creative energy. The downfall of this is largely associated with the emergence of domesticated agriculture and man's ability to control nature, and thus the coming of patriarchy that seeks to displace Goddess and divine feminine to the point of oppression, along with dominionism.
|
|
| ◍ |
cCeltic Traditions – especially prior to the Christian invasion
|
| |
| ▦ |
I find elements of wisdom and enrichments to shamanism in what we learn about The Celts – even if I need to reconcile the polytheistic elements with my monotheistic spirituality; it is important to honor Celtic deities as thriving metaphorsmp for true Otherworld mysticism:: and essential wisdom...
|
| |
| □ |
The Goddess/Saint Brigid is a family-honored mytho-poetic metaphor, as she played an important part in my marriage with Theresa Dancing-Heart on 8 February 2020 near the beginning of Imbolc – a traditional season for Celtic weddings.
|
| □ |
I am especially fascinated by their reverence for:
- the knowledge & memory of trees, and the gifts offered via their fruit
- wells and springs
- general appreciation for the Natural World
- interconnections with Otherworlders
- key roles/divinity: feminine/masculine; women/men; goddesses/gods...
|
|
| ▦ |
I have an affinity to Scottish Celts, and then Irish Celts, but the interconnectionsui beyond those influence them all – I have some family heritage that goes back to Scotland via my maternal Grandfather, Leslie Koplow Walker.
|
| |
| □ |
uisge beatha (wish-ga bah-ha) 🥃 water of life:
-
I have a deep appreciation for Scotch Whisky
-
I have "explored" a vast variety of expressions, thereof
-
Of course, I'm not opposed to trying other sorts of reputable whiskey
-
Scotch Whisky properly has no "e" – while whiskey otherwise has an "e"
|
| □ |
Slàinte Mhath! (slahn-chə vah) 🙏 To your good health! 😊
|
|
| ▦ |
See my Celtic Traditions Befote Christianity (homework for OSIS: One Spirit Interfaith Seminary; based on Sharon Paice MacLeod, Celtic Myth and Religion: a study of traditional belief, with newly translated prayers, poems and songs)
|
|
|
| ◊ |
and others... Joseph Campbell was such a hero of myth and metaphor... hero of heroes...
|
| → |
my SoulΣ (every Soul) knows its place, purpose, & interconnectionsui within The Whole!
|
| |
| ◍ |
the Soul is always one with The WholeΘ ... the Ego just needs to understand and hear the "still, small voice," and take the leap...!
|
|
|
| ≻ |
not without living practices of discovery, affirmation & realizationλ of:
|
| |
|
|
ξNeo-Eco-Soulism / Soulful-Eco-Centrism (possibly unique terms & concepts)
|
| • |
My BeingΒ – rationally, interpersonally,
mystically::
&
transpersonallytp
|
| |
| ≻ |
Every SoulΙ
is a DivineΔ
Facet of
The WholeΘ
and its Ecological‡
systems
|
|
◊
within every
BeingΒ,
The WholeΘ
dwells in & thru
The SoulΙ
🙏 💐 ❤️ 🌞 🤓
|
| ≻ |
Animismα
– every thing, place, and life force has a Soul and Spirit energy
|
| ≻ |
Panentheismpe
– every container or complexity (esp. The Whole) has a Soul
|
| ≻ |
Non-Dominionism –
equanimity of all Souls of Animismα/Panentheismpe
|
| ≻ |
Non-Patriarchy –
equanimity of DivineΔ Feminine/Non-Binary/Masculine
|
| ≻ |
Science –
the physical realm has rational, logical, normal truths & properties
|
| ≻ |
Mysticism::
– intuition or experience of ultimate/hidden truths & properties
|
| ≻ |
Spirit¤,
Spiritual§,
InterSpiritualΛ
‐ energetic, transcendentts,
interconnectedui
|
| ≻ |
Soul-itudeΣ
– Soul-Inscending, Eco-Awakening (Bill Plotkin: Soul Encounter)
|
| ≻ |
Non-ismsΩ
– presence, humility, non-attached, non-doing, non-dual-isms...
|
| ≻ |
Loving Communitylc –
safety, kindness, gratitude, respect, service, justiceĴ...
|
| ≻ |
Ecological Justice
– environmental stewardship: climate, resources, waste...
|
|
|
A Connected[ui] Universe
An Ecological Examination of Conscience
~ Fr. Richard Rohr,
OFM,
Center for Action and Contemplation
Francis of Assisi called animals “Sister” and “Brother” and viewed humans as one part of a wider family of creation. Franciscan writers Ilia Delio, Keith Douglass Warner, and Pamela Wood recommend adapting a historic Christian practice of “examination of conscience” to focus on how we have harmed or helped our relationships with the Earth:
To prepare to do an ecological examination of conscience, take a few minutes to quiet yourself and enter into a state of prayer. Going back over your day or week, ask yourself the following questions:
-
Is my whole life centered on God’s overflowing love in my life, revealed through Jesus and through all creation? . . .
-
Do I accept with a grateful heart the gifts of God’s goodness and diversity in creation? . . .
-
Do I pray for the forgiveness of sins between humans and the created world, and for the healing and reconciliation of our broken relationship with creation? . . .
-
Have I used my God-given gifts to honor and protect the diverse, interdependent, fragile nature of all life and to preserve it for all future beings? . . .
-
Have I stolen from or damaged the habitat of other creatures by wasting or consuming more than I need? . . .
-
Do I seek to eliminate from the world whatever keeps all creatures from their full development intended by their Creator: pollution, greed, overconsumption, loss of habitat, disease, war, extinction of species, oppressive laws and structures? . . .
-
Have I encouraged others to take care for creation seriously? . . .
After spending time with these questions, hold in your mind and heart the ways in which you have lived in disharmony with creation. . . . Offer these mistakes up to God and ask for the strength and the wisdom to learn to live with integrity within the web of creation.
|
|
consider: A Great Re-Wholing of All Beings
|
|
|
| " |
Science without religion
is lame.
Religion without science
is blind. "
|
|
|
| ~ |
Albert Einstein
|
|
|
| " |
The way we see the world
shapes the way we treat it...
If a mountain is a deity,
not a pile of ore;
if a forest is a sacred grove,
not timber;
if other species are biological kin,
not resources;
if the planet is our mother,
not an opportunity...
then we will treat
[The WholeΘ: Earth,
environment, plants, animals, people...]
each other
with greater respect.
Thus is the challenge:
to look at the world
from a different perspective. "
|
|
|
| ~ |
David Suzuki
|
|
|
|
|
| " |
It
[would be]
easy to love a perfect god,
unblemished & infallible that he is.
What is far more difficult
is to love fellow human beings
with all their imperfections & defects.
[Now], one can only know
what one is capable of loving.
There is no wisdom without love.
Unless we learn to love God's creation,
we can neither truly love,
nor truly know,
God. "
|
|
|
| ~ |
Shams Tabrizi
|
|
|
|
|
Foundation II:
¤Spirit,
§Spiritual,
ΛInter-Spiritual
The WholeΘ, The SoulΙ & The Spirit-u-oul... at Any Scale
|
|
|
|
|
|
NOTE:
§Spiritual:
the terms "Spiritual" and "Spirituality" are often broader than just thinking of "Spirit¤," as defined below.
"Spiritual" is a sort of sup'ed-up extension that has to do with our broader sense of mysticism:: and the full
transpersonaltp spectrum
– The Whole/Goddess/God, Soul, Spirit, and The SacredΔ –
including: parts of culture; ideals; wisdom; faith; myth; symbolism; ancestors; places; shamans; and mytho-poeticmp metaphors, identity, and non-rationalΩ ways of knowing; etc...
On the other hand, you can think of "Spirit," as described below, as our gateway or handle or sixth-sense to tap into and relate with "Spirituality," as described here.
See Transpersonaltp.
Inter-SpiritualΛ is a further specialization within the psycho-spiritual lexicon...
|
There are many ways that various traditions differentiate or equivocate or overlap the ideas of Spirit and Soul.
In my way of understanding and experiencing and awakening to them...
My SoulΙ is the entity within my unconsciousψ self that is integral to The WholeΘ.
The SoulΙ is of the same realm as The WholeΘ, and this realm is where oneness originates...
where the Soul of the greater Living System of The Earthξ dwells...
where purpose originates...
where love authentically originates...
and where the "still, small voice" originates and may be understood through mytho-poeticmp metaphors emerging delicately through Soul-itudeΣ into our consciousnessψ dominated by the
EgoΙ.
See Inscendenceis.
¤Spirit is the swelling energy of the intention or channel of connection from the
unconsciousψ
realm of Soul and The Whole into the margins of consciousψ awareness.
This energy may operate within the scope of the selfΙ, or it may reach into interpersonal and collective space
— an Inter-SpiritualΛ realm —
which is revealed into full awareness when we are open to the common ground ("shared spiritual heritage") that originates from The WholeΘ, or when the energy is so strong that it cannot be ignored.
This is not unlike The Holy Spirit, which is described as a divineΔ force, quality, and influence of GodΘ over the universe.
See Transcendencets.
|
| #Interspirituality |
ΛInterspirituality
| " |
Beneath the diversity of theological
beliefs, rites, and observances
lies a deeper unity of experience that is
our shared spiritual heritage
[i.e., common ground].
Mystical spirituality is the
origin of all the world religions, and
every authentic spiritual path offers
unique perspectives and rich insights
into this deeper, direct experience of truth.
In our time, the wisdom and depth of all paths
are available to anyone who brings an open mind,
generous spirit, and [compassionate] heart
to the search across traditions.
. . .
[We become awakened responsibly and
spiritually engaged in] 'acts of compassion...,
contributing to the transformation of the world
and the building of a nonviolent,
peace-loving culture that includes everyone.'
(Wayne Teasdale, The Mystic Heart) " **
|
|
|
| ~ |
One Spirit Learning Alliance
What is Interspirituality?
March 10, 2021
|
|
**perhaps:
A Great Re-Wholing of All Beings
|
|
|
|
As Spirit is listening over our shoulder to what we encounter over the course of time, it may be in cahoots with The Whole to generate energy from the right Soulful origin to get attention about ideas that serve an aspect of purposeπ we need to realize, and our ability to have the presenceρ and humilityη to receive it is essential.
|
Spirituality regards how we are...
...animated by GodΘ.
|
| " |
Interspiritual dialogue is embedded in common action. Basically this action is respect for the other:
|
| |
| |
| ‘ |
What is “other” is to be welcomed as an invitation to a deeper faith rather than marginalized as a thread
[threat?]
to be avoided ’. "
| |
|
| |
| ~ |
Kees Waaijman,
Spirituality - A Multifaceted Phenomenon, p. 21
|
|
|
For example:
- Achieving Soul-itudeΣ
is a connection through Spirit between EgoΙ
and SoulΙ
as a result of Inscendenceis.
- The Third Eye Chakra may be tuned into an Inter-Spiritual phenomenon.
- A sixth-sense experience may have a sensitivity to Spirit.
- A group or communitylc may operate on an intuitively aligned level through the benefit of Inter-Spiritual energy – and that same energy may help them to work out their differences.
- A Spiritual experience reveals something we know that we know even if we cannot know how we know it, and we know that it changes what we know about our nature. 🙃
- We often know when we are in "good Spirits."
- A Shaman may help handle "bad Spirits" (e.g., shadow, trauma, conflict, disconnection, or disruptive parts...) that linger longer and more insidiously than we can handle on our own.
- The Spirits or Souls of our ancestors may watch over us, speaking Inter-Spiritually from their "still, small voices" using the familiar metaphors of their legacy that comfort, inspire, or protect us.
So, Spirit feeds the Ego'sΙ personal perception of the realm of The SoulΙ and The WholeΘ,
and draws the EgoΙ to notice, to be presentρ with, and to awaken to a purposeπ that aligns with Soul's place within The Whole.
And, Inter-Spiritual energy is the same on an interpersonal or collective scale, and depends more on our Egos'Ι willingness
to relate on common ground, recognize and receive the Spiritual energy that goes beyond the experience of selfΙ,
and grab ahold of the even broader, mutual purposeπ that emerges from a mutual awakening.
|
| #Interconnected |
|
uiUbuntu & Interbeing:
|
|
Interconnected
|
|
| " |
Umuntu ngumuntu ngabantu. "
|
| " |
A person is a person
through
other people. "
|
| " |
I am who I am
because
we are who we are. "
|
|
|
| ~ |
Zulu People of South Africa
The Spirit of Ubuntu
|
|
| " |
My humanity is caught up –
is inextricably bound up –
in yours. "
|
| ~ |
Desmond Tutu: his "essence of Ubuntu"
Members of One Diverse Family
|
|
above cited from daily meditations
by The Center for Action & Contemplation
weekly theme:
We Are One and Many
|
|
| " |
We inter-are."
[present ρ tense of infinitive: inter-being]
"Everything relies on everything else in the cosmos
in order to manifest –
whether a star, a cloud, a flower, a tree,
or you and me.
"
|
| ~ |
Thích Nhất Hạnh
The Art of Living
|
|
|
For example:
- The Earth has an Inter-Spiritual Soul
- A Forest, garden, herd, flock, or school has an Inter-Spiritual Soul
- A Tree, weed, elk, goose, or tuna has a Soul
- A Nation has an Inter-Spiritual Soul
- A faith tradition (Judaism, Islam, EcoCentrism...) has an Inter-Spiritual Soul
- A Congregation has an Inter-Spiritual Soul
- A Study Group has an Inter-Spiritual Soul
- A Companioningж/Catalyst∬ pairing has an Inter-Spiritual Soul
- Soulmates have an Inter-Spiritual Soul
- A Family has an Inter-Spiritual Soul
- Friends have an Inter-Spiritual Soul
- Ex-spouses (amicable or otherwise) have an Inter-Spiritual Soul
- Strangers meeting for the first time have an Inter-Spiritual Soul
- Enemies, along the whole scale from opposing individuals to opposing global alliances, have Inter-Spiritual Souls
- The WholeΘ includes an Infinitely Inter-SpiritualΛ Universal SoulΙ.
|
| " |
A human being experiences [their] self, [their] thoughts and feelings as something separate from the rest, a kind of optical delusion of consciousness. This delusion is a kind of prison for us, restricting us to our personal desires and to affection for a few persons nearest to us.
Our task must be
to free ourselves from this prison
by widening our circle of compassion
to embrace all living creatures
and the whole of nature
in its beauty. "
|
|
|
| ~ |
Albert Einstein
|
|
|
|
It is a matter of how our EgosΙ choose to receive the mytho-poeticmp metaphors and bursts of Inter-Spiritual energy from these varying scopes of Soul as if from our own Soul.
Every being I encounter gives me new opportunities to connect Inter-spiritually at a soulfulΙ level to receive deeper insight and realizeλ greater purposeπ.
All Souls have integrity across and among themselves as parts of the same WholeΘ — and we can ask... wait... and listen for the revelation of a broader purpose that is inherently loving and peaceful – at any scale.
|
|
#Change_the_World
|
" If you want to change the world[*],
change the metaphor[**]...
Change the story. "
~ Joseph Campbell
|
the way I understand the context:
*World change and interbeingui emerge from
Inter-SpiritualΛ revelations...
**metaphors originate from the depths of
(Inter-)Spiritual Souls.
contrast Mother Teresa:
I Alone
|
|
|
Conflicts emerge from our individual and collective EgosΙ... from our individual and collective wounds... from our individual and collective defenses... from our individual and collective shadowsΙ... We feel a need for pride, compensation, protection, and hiding away. Wholeness and purpose are obscured by all the distractions, pain, posturing, and attachments to a world that is apparently complicated and daunting. We find ourselves in conflict between groups and within groups.
|
|
lcLoving Community
|
Thích Nhất Hạnh interviewed by Oprah Winfrey
(video 22m)
|
My notes:
-
beloved community and collective energy
-
meditation together is unique and powerful
-
compassionate listening, deep listening, understanding,
witnessing... holding space for the release of suffering
(set aside solution grooming – it is a separate process
( in its own time & place & manner)
-
mantras of presence and compassion for suffering
-
Jesus and Buddha...
|
|
" For where two or three gather in my name,
"
there am I with them. "
~ Jesus of Nazareth (Matthew 18:20)
|
|
see also Fr. Richard Rohr: The Immensity Within
|
|
|
It is important to ensure that context is considered w.r.t. what Jesus says here: in this case, it is pretty universally understood that the context is conflict resolution – but he doesn't just wait for conflict to emerge and expand...
Conflict could be a rogue individual against the group, or it could be parts of the group with conflicting practices that are looking for a way to work more harmoniously together.
As we consider the best non-ego-attached course forward in many cases of being in agreement about group purpose, we are trying to ensure conflicts and misunderstandings are resolved.
I see this as an important example of how our Inter-Spiritual connections and a common intention to guide us
brings us closer to the purpose of our collective Souls for their places in The WholeΘ.
This is not to say that two or three are sufficient to account for a greater communitylc, but that what ever community is gathering will be attended by Inter-Spiritual energy that needs to be received to pull them together.
|
|
A Great Re-Wholing⌖
of All BeingsΒ
a dream of urgent Inter-Spiritual awakening
|
| |
|
#Great_Re_Wholing
|
This Inter-Spiritual gathering and alignment of intentions can/must be achieved on the scale needed to
restore our love and care for the Living System of The Earth
(Neo-Eco-Soulismξ.)
And it can/must be achieved on the scale needed to
restore our love and care for all races, religions, ethnicities, genders, and people and beings of all sorts,
with the intention that we are all united in loving communitylc and our highest purpose of service and compassion...
without loss of culture nor tradition, but still evolving as Inter-Spiritual intention calls us
to meet on common ground to honor all in our belonging within the loving communitylc of this Earth
(The WholeΘ; Trans-Faithtf.)
We must retire, but name and remember with humility and purpose, the old EgoΙ,
the old wounds, the old defenses, and the old shadowsΙ
– of the oppressors and the oppressed – for having evaded the dignities of our emerging wisdom.
We must grieve and re-whole beyond any shame and judgement of past harm,
while authentically gathering in the Inter-Spiritual presenceρ of the truer / greater / loving communitylc. (see Wholing Prayer⌖)
~ Whispers-with-ForestsΞ
|
|
#Lennon_Imagine
|
| " |
Imagine all the people
Livin' life in Peace.
You-hoooh... Ooh-ooh.
You may say I'm a dreamer,
But I'm not the only one.
I hope someday you'll join us,
And the World will be as One. "
|
|
|
| ~ |
John Lennon
Imagine
|
|
|
|
| |
|
|
|
|
I like to think of Spirit¤
as being the energy of The WholeΘ
or my SoulΙ
reaching out to my EgoΙ,
offering an invitation to meaning, identity, and purposeπ
– an invitation that must be accepted via
Soul-itudeΣ
and
Inscendenceis
– while EgoΙ
is more inclined to build walls and empires when left to its own ruminations
– Sanctuary~
and authenticA
assurances being keys to allaying the fearsfr
that trigger isolationism and defensiveness by the EgoΙ.
Inter-spiritual energy helps us to receive invitations to meaning and purposeπ on a broader scale.
|
|
|
|
Foundation III:
ΣSoul-itude
mytho-poeticmp metaphors
awareness of SoulΙ & The WholeΘ
|
|
|
My Soul-itude is a state of (me/EgoΙ) being deeply familiar with,
in close companionshipж with, or in true communion with my
Soul,
and thus, with The WholeΘ.
My Soul is a facet and individuation that knows its place, purpose, and interconnectionsui within The Whole.
So, reaching a state of Soul-itude is my way of investigating my place and purpose.
As a result of my Soul-itude, I bring a true, even if incremental, understanding toward authentic reality from Soul's unconsciousψ realm with The Whole.
It is essential to find Sanctuary~ as a safe place for EgoΙ to receive authenticA assurances to relinquish its repression of The Shy SoulΙ.
The process of "Real"-izationλ is essential for guiding this understanding into full consciousψ appreciation and intentionalι action.
|
|
Motez, ♪♪ Soulitude ♪♪
(music-video; no vocals), live on location (iTunes)
|
|
|
≻ the beginning title remarks are inspiring...
| |
We find solace from within ourselves;
and by connecting to the natural world around us,
we are all connected to each other.
| | |
This [music-video] project represents a natural response to our newfound state of isolation and seclusion, and thus,
warrants artistic output that is introspective, not retrospective.
|
|
|
In the state of Soul-itude, it is not a mere matter of having an English (or other spoken language) conversation with Soul.
Praying is a way of consolidating our concerns and becoming mindful of our need for connection to Soul to have a purposeful strategy for resolving them.
But Soul speaks from deep within us – from its place embedded in our unconsciousnessψ.
|
" There is a voice that doesn't use words...
... Listen ! "
~ Rumi
|
|
Examples of mytho-poeticmp revelations from the depths of unconsciousnessψ include:
- visions
- imagery
- imagination
- creativity
- dreams
- intuition
- insight
- feelings
- abstract symbols and concepts
- deities
- architypes
- metaphorical stories
- expressive art
- speaking in tongues
- life-long arcs of learning
- epiphanies
- unfamiliar circumstances
- mysticism:: in various forms...
- and other revealing phenomena
Any words that come are generally from our ability to
"real"‑izeλ Soul's intentionsι.
|
" The true sign of intelligence
is not knowledge...
...but imagination. "
~ Albert Einstein
|
|
| " |
Like dreams, myths are productions of the human imagination.
Their images, consequently – though derived from the material world and its supposed history – are, like dreams, revelations of the deepest hopes, desires and fears, potentialities and conflicts, of the human will - which in turn is moved by the energies of the organs of the body operating variously against each other and in concert.
Every myth, that is to say,
whether or not by intention,
is psychologically symbolic.
Its narratives and images are to be read,
therefore, not literally,
but as metaphors. "
|
| |
| ~ |
Joseph Campbell
The Inner Reaches of Outer Space
|
|
Allowing for comfort in
mysticism::...
Retaining humility in rationalism...
Recognizing when intuition has masterfully blended the two
to reveal a
mytho-poeticmp
gift.
|
|
|
We tend to understand ourselves mentally/consciouslyψ with language and established concepts, but Soul is more fundamental than these mental constructs.
The abstract stories we receive from Soul become understood by us as part of our personal mythology
with a
"poetic"
(something that is poetic is very beautiful and expresses imagination and emotions in a sensitive or moving way)
beauty,
even if only for one's self.
The themes of what we find can be understood as
mytho-poeticmp
metaphors in our consciousψ symbolism of the ephemeral transmissions from a Soul that are obscured from consciousnessψ.
|
| #Mytho_Poetic |
|
mpMytho-Poetic
(Carl Jung)
|
|
a.k.a. personal mythology, or active imagination
|
| |
|
| " |
It is of course ironical that I, a psychiatrist, should at almost every step of
my experiment have run into the same psychic material which is the stuff
of psychosis and is found in the insane.
This is the fund of unconscious images which fatally confuse the mental
patient. But it is also the matrix of a mythopoetic imagination which has
vanished from our rational age.
Though such imagination is present everywhere, it is both tabooed and
dreaded, so that it even appears to be a risky experiment or a
questionable adventure to entrust oneself to the uncertain path that
leads into the depths of the unconscious. "
|
|
|
| ~ |
Dr. Carl G. Jung
Memories, Dreams, and Reflections
(a.k.a. "Active Imagination")
|
| " |
One does not become enlightened by imagining figures of light,
but by making the darkness conscious. "
|
| |
|
| " |
Jung had a unique record of self-investigation, self-inquiry, and self-scrutiny — in which he is attempting to explore his fantasies through the visionary method of active imagination, visual images in a waking state, and then writing them down. He determined that these fantasies came from the mytho-poetic layer of the psyche, which he later came to call the collective unconscious. "
|
|
|
| ~ |
Prof. Sonu Shamdasani
Speaking of Jung, Episode 75,
The Black Books
|
| |
|
Mythopoetic Identity (definition):
|
| " |
The way we consciously identify and experience the nature of Soul — namely, through metaphor in the form of poetic or mythic images or patterns. Since it’s not possible to directly describe our eco-niche in everyday descriptive language, we comprehend and appreciate it mythopoetically. Essentially what Carl Jung meant by “personal myth.” "
|
|
|
| ~ |
Dr. Bill Plotkin
Animus Valley Institute
|
|
|
|
|
October Project,
♪♪ Take Me As I Am ♪♪ (lyrics) (iTunes)
Soul-itude – consider:
the 1st person "me/I" (as my SoulΙ) singing (reaching out) to
the 2nd person "you" (as my EgoΙ/Consciousψ-SelfΙ)
...I can see you standing in the smoky entrance giving up your good intentions.
...never knowing who or what you are until you're living with the unfamiliar.
...there's a place where fear won't find you...
...where your secret dreams remind you...
...this is all you have to know and...
...this is all you have to go on.
...everything you have inside you...
...everything you need to guide you...
...this is all you have to know and...
...this is all you have to go on.
...even if you shine a light into the mirror you won't see me any clearer.
Leave... the shadows dancing,
Dancing on their own...
Let the moment free you now.
Leave... it all behind you,
I'll know where you've gone...
Let the world go on.
|
|
|
My mytho-poeticmp
identity, Whispers-with-ForestsΞ, is a consciousψ metaphor for what my Soul-itude has revealed: encountering and understanding my Soul's place in
The Wilderness‡...
its part in The Whole...
its mingling with The DivineΔ ALL.
Soul-itude involves Soul Encounter through Inscendenceis...
|
| #Soul_Encounter |
Soul Encounter & Eco-Awakening...
Neglected in Contemporary
Spirituality[§]
|
| " |
...realms of awakening; ...profound shifts in consciousness that result in enduring or permanent changes in perspective, identity, self-image, values, lifestyle, worldview, and world.
...a fourth category is comprised of the
inscendent[is]
spiritual[§]
experiences — awakening to the unique mysteries at the core of the individual human psyche, specifically the mysteries of the soul...
[I focus here] on two particular varieties of awakenings because they are rarely experienced and rarely considered in contemporary life,
and because they are arguably the most relevant and urgent in our time of radical, global change,
more essential and beneficial now than the
transcendent[ts]
variety of awakenings.
-
One is the distinct kind of awakening that catalyzes the passage between two particular stages of human development —
the life-shifting experience I call eco-awakening:
a person’s first conscious and embodied experience of their innate membership in the
Earth community[ξ].
-
The second is the fourth realm noted just above,
the experience of what cultural historian and eco-theologian Thomas Berry called
inscendence[is],
the encounter with soul, which is as
spiritual[§]
and transpersonal[tp]
as transcendence[ts]
but essentially absent from current maps of
transpersonal[tp]
experience, overlooked by the dominant religions
and most contemporary
spiritual[§]
practices, and rarely experienced or discussed in the world today
despite being perhaps the single most valuable and urgent realm of awakening in our times. "
|
| ~ |
Bill Plotkin
from
Soul Encounter and Eco-Awakening: Two Essential Realms of Awakening Neglected in Contemporary Spirituality, Part I,
the first of at least 11 parts; culminating in fascinating perspectives of the elligance, importance, universality, and urgency of
inscendenceis
to
SoulΙ
– what I call
Soul-itudeΣ.
|
Emphasis, superscripts, and list structure are mine: it is a whole paragraph preceded by the tail of the previous paragraph.
A few terms in the vast
Animas Valley Institute
lexicon:
-
isInscendence
"the encounter with soul... awakening to the unique mysteries at the core of the individual human psyche..."
[from the text quoted from the
linked document]
-
tsTranscendence
"conscious experience of or as Spirit or the Ultimate Mystery"
[from elsewhere in the
linked document]
-
tpTranspersonal
states of awareness... "consciousness expanded beyond the usual ego boundaries and the limitations of time and space."
[Wikipedeia:
Stanislav Grof, pioneer of Transpersonal Psychology]
especially the spectrum spanning
transcendencets &
inscendenceis
often refered to collectively and ambiguously as
Spiritual§
|
|
|
#Soul_is_the_Blueprint
|
|
Compare to Richard Rohr noting Carl Jung:
The God Archetype:
|
| " |
Most people have never been told there is a place to go to that’s called the soul.
Soul is the blueprint inside of every living thing that tells it what it is and what it can still become. "
|
|
|
|
#All_the_True_Vows
|
| " |
...There is only one life
you can call your own
and [tenTao] thousand others
you can call by any name you want.
Hold to the truth you make
every day with your own body,
don’t turn your face away.
Hold to your own truth
at the center of the image
you were born with.
Those who do not understand
their
destiny[dy]
will never understand
the friends they have made
nor the work they have chosen
nor the one life that waits
beyond all the others... "
|
| ~ |
David Whyte
from “All the True Vows”
in The House of Belonging
|
dybe gentle on yourself regarding 'destiny':
-
neither Darth Vader ! nor anyone
can tell you your destiny
-
your own SoulΙ
knows you: your
passion, knowledge, & experience
– including transpersonaltp experience
-
your own Soul-itudeΣ
reveals to you
what is yours to
beΩ
-
the degree of your "destiny" derives
from your authenticity in Soul-itude
& how you engage in your
purposeπ
-
similarly, to "surrendersu" is to "flow"
& to be at ease with your purpose
-
mysticism::
is not a trick known only
to "mystics" – we must be our own
mystics in
Soul-itudeΣ
|
|
|
|
Soul is commonly repressed into a similar depth of unconsciousnessψ as shadow(s)Ι...
It is often necessary to sort out shadows ahead of Soul-itude – applying a bit of "Shad-itude" to be aware of the obfuscations and perturbations that might complicate the already delicate
mytho-poeticmp
indirection in the metaphors we are given.
It is necessary to honor, be-friend, and re-integrate the shadows so they can be trusted,
"Dancing on their own..." when reaching through to Soul.
It is not uncommon to encounter one when expecting or hoping for the other – Non-ismsΩ are ever applicable when exploring in the dark among shy (unconsciousψ) elements of one's SelfΙ.
It is for this reason that humilityη of purposeπ is always in order, and a willingness to explore conflict with a soulful presence ρ can be mutually enriching.
|
|
sjSupporting a Soul-itude Journey
Honoring and Dignifying Both
SoulΙ
& ShadowsΙ
Inscendentalis
Un-Othering
|
| #Soulitude_Journey |
The journey into the
unconsciousnessψ
protecting
shadowsΙ
and SoulΙ
is a solitary endeavor, but it can be beneficial to have a
Companionж
with whom to become prepared and with whom to re-connect upon return –
not someone who will do the interpreting... but someone who understands the nature of the journey
and who is trusted to listen deeply, and to hear the traveler's truth from their own
authenticA,
even if unfamiliar,
mysticism::
and mytho-poeticmp
revelation(s) with presence and humility and without judgement,
and to ask open/honest questions
(e.g., Quaker Ways of Deep ListeningQ)
that serve the needs of the traveler...
loving invitations that are not "pushy," but allow the traveler to reach inner integrity of clarity –
a Companionж
who honors the divine wholeness within the traveler: A knowledgeable, experienced, skillful, patient
Catalyst∬
that remains distinct from the traveler's uniquely
divineΔ
revelation and invitation to be what is theirs to be.
🙏 NamasteN
~ Whispers-with-ForestsΞ
see how: Companioning to Soul-itude
|
|
|
|
#What_is_the_greatest_gift
|
| |
What is the greatest gift?
|
| " |
What is the greatest gift?
Could it be the world itself —
the oceans, the meadowlark,
the patience of the trees in the wind?
Could it be love,
with its sweet clamor of passion?
Something else —
something else entirely
holds me in thrall.
That you have a life
that I wonder about
more than I wonder about my own.
That you have a life — courteous, intelligent —
that I wonder about
more than I wonder about my own.
That you have a soul — your own, no one else's —
that I wonder about
more than I wonder about my own.
So that I find my soul
clapping its hands for yours
more than my own. "
|
|
|
| ~ |
Mary Oliver
|
|
|
|
|
Foundation IV:
ΩNon-isms
humble being, humble intentionι, humble presenceρ
|
|
non-nonism – just humility through some non-dualistic non's
|
Based on some of the deeply underlying shared Inter-SpiritualΛ heritage of:
▹ Hinduism – Non-Attachment
अनासक्त-भाव
▹ Buddhism – Non-Dualism
▹ Tao Te Ching 道德經
–
Wu wei 無為
–
non-doing
| |
Wu wei: "a state of perfect[**] knowledge of the reality of the situation [presenceρ], perfect efficaciousness
[of purpose], and the realization of a perfect economy of energy [to engage]"
– Jean François Billeter
|
| |
[**perfection being the ideal that leads us to our best effort without being blocked by idealism.]
|
▹ And other non-dualisms pertinent to challenges of the current eraĴ and the
global crisesĴ in which we find ourselves...
urgent learning and wholing⌖ opportunities...
These "Non-isms" are not part of the nonism school of thought (an unfortunate similarity in naming),
but more of an extension of the non-dualisms by contrasting neither-this-nor-that in a variety of ways: opposites or multi-chotomies.
You may be able to reduce these to a single concept of non-dualism,
but it still helps to demonstrate how to apply the concept to more specific circumstances.
The non-dualism philosophy might offer more non-dualistic dimensions in each case,
such that even more space is opened for the spectrum of varying possibilities distinct from the poles.
Once you get past the first few examples (•) that are classic cases-in-point of the Non-isms Foundation,
you just find some of my own pet / personal examples (○) that I like to keep in mind to stimulate further
mystical:: intrigue.
There are even terms that are non-non-isms, in that there are real, simple, but important words that can be used, like
humilityη and
presenceρ.
ΩNon-isms:
| • | non-attachment... non-clinging... |
| | ≻ but not without intentionι and presenceρ. |
| | ≻ but not without inteconnectionui and spiritual/soulful bonding. |
| | ≻ what has actually come of the doing, happening, giving, receiving, ...? |
| | □ miracles...? |
| | □ unexpected results...? |
| | □ unanticipated situations...? |
| | □ perhaps a better appreciation of reality. |
| | □ perhaps changes have entirely reframed the context. |
| | □ perhaps nominally what was intended. |
| | □ perhaps counter-productive. |
| | □ perhaps nothing. |
| • | non-dualism (see examples2, below)... |
| | ≻ but not without true nature. |
| | ≻ both / and... neither / nor... |
| | ≻ a broad/full spectrum; non-other-ness; connected-ness; one-ness... |
| • | non-doing... |
| | ≻ but not without engagingε in my true nature. |
| | ≻ what is mineη to be? Be That! ...doing emerges authenticallyA from Being. |
| | ≻ what is on my courseχ charted using presenceρ and purposeπ? |
| • | non-forcing... non-tyranny... |
| | ≻ but not without sufficientη engagementε, diligence & priority. |
| | ≻ what are my purposeπ and intentions ι? |
| | ≻ avoiding the "Tyranny of the Urgent." |
| | ≻ more priority for importance; then taking urgency carefully into account:
◊ important: having a more highly valued impact.
◊ urgent: having a shorter deadline in which to be accomplished.
– logistical urgency: circumstances restrict a window of opportunity.
– intrinsic urgency: greater timeliness is a facet of the importance.
|
| ○ | non-rational... |
| | ≻ but not without clarity. |
| | ≻ logical / spiritual§... psycho-spiritualS... |
| | ≻ creative, inspired, mystical::, divineΔ, liminal, mythopoeticmp, metaphorical... |
| ○ | non-fatalism... |
| | ≻ self-determination, but not without mystical::/divine revelation. |
| | ≻ surrendersu to purposeπ, but not to helplessness... (see destinydy) |
| | ≻ being what is mine to be with intentionι & engagementε. |
| ○ | non-judgemental... |
| | ≻ but not without personal boundaries. |
| | ≻ being present ρ and understanding. |
| ○ | non-fearingfr... |
| | ≻ but not without realizationλ of danger. |
| | ≻ seeking safe Sanctuary~ (emotional & physical) to allow Ego to stand-down. |
| | ≻ ...THEN: stepping into "what is mine to be" with confidence and due care.
| | | ≻ sacrificesc is seen from Ego's perspective; authenticity knows no sacrifice. |
| ○ | ηhumility... (non-pride; non-EgoΙ-ism / non-EgoΙ-centrism) |
| | ≻ but not without belief. |
| | ≻ EgoΙ must find alignment to honor its limitations,
to honor boundaries more generally,
to subdue its pride and arrogance,
and to tame its fearful motivations & forceful means...
focusing and softening expressions of honesty and
authenticity
— just presenceρ, receptivity, and honoring interconnectivityui.
|
| ○ | ρpresence... (non-temporal; non-denial)
| | | ≻ but not without purpose/intention; not without experience. |
| | ≻
being as fully aware as possible
of the dynamics of the current reality
and the resulting outcomes and unknowns
while avoiding dwelling in the past, future, or unrealized hopes
without the clutter of judgmental ruminations...
— just humbleη, clear, and full awareness in the present.
|
| ○ | non-proselytizing... (non-evangelism; non-religious) |
| | ≻ but not without personal commitment. |
| | ≻ wanting to understand other perspectives; wanting to be understood... |
| | ≻ curious, open, willingness to consider broadening my foundation... |
| | ≻ Inter-spiritualityΛ: realizingλ "shared spiritual heritage" |
| ○ | non-dominionism*... (non-proselytism) |
| | ≻ but not without ecological interdependence. |
| | ≻ balancing systems of energy, resources, production, and food... |
| | ≻ all Soulful facets of The WholeΘ & purpose of all life, stuff, places & forcesα. |
| | ≻ note: *Abrahamic/Genesis proclamation of human dominion over creation;
◊ this is inconsistent with Animismα/Neo-Eco-Soulismξ/Panentheism;
– the mismatch inevitably falls toward dominionism,
which co-inspires possession, privilege & force: egoΙ-isms;
◊ the Soulful/Living Worldξ needs our love, partnership, stewardship:
– not domination;
– not opportunistic, arrogant, nor malicious exploitation;
– non-privilege, non-egoism & non-proselytism... |
| ○ | non-privilege... (non-discrimination...) |
| | ≻ but not without cultural diversity; non-fearing. |
| | ≻ membership, belonging, affirmation, partnership, honoring, presence... |
| | ≻ identity, interdependence, interconnectedui, learning, valuing, broadening... |
| ○ | non-corruption... |
| | ≻ but not without communitylc compassion & humilityη. |
| | ≻ preserving precisely the full favor of faithfulness: nothing less nor more. |
| | ≻ transparency and trusted use of adaptive measures... |
| | ≻ what is mine to give? what is mine to receive? |
| | ≻ what is ours to share? what is its own to be?
|
2non-dualism examples:
| dualism / dichotomy | examples, qualities, or notes for... |
|
|
|
A |
B |
Both A and B. |
Neither A nor B. |
|
|
|
|
| right | wrong | perspective | non-judgemental |
| music | noise | waterfall; wind | nor vocal; nor silence |
| safety | danger | risk mitigation | transition |
| whole | portion | imperfect | nor empty |
| light | dark | dusk; dawn | solitude |
| black | white | grey | color |
| mine | theirs | ours | liberated |
| will | fate | purpose | being |
| change | same | dynamic | non-attached |
| complex | simple | tedious | automatic |
| self | other | us | Unity |
| subject | object | universal | God |
| soul | shadow | integrated | intrinsic |
| knowing | mystery | openness | presence |
| ... | ... | ... | ... |
|
|
|
#truth_about_who_you_are
|
| " |
Your [challenge] is how you are going to spend this one and precious life you have been issued.
Whether you're going to spend it trying to look good and creating the illusion that you have power over circumstances...
or whether you are going to
taste it,
enjoy it,
and find out the truth
about who you are. "
|
|
| ~ |
Anne Lamott
|
|
|
|
#Lao_Tzu_Wu_Wei
|
Lao Tzu, Tao Te Ching
Ch. 43: Wu Wei
|
a.k.a. non-doing
|
| |
|
| " |
The gentlest thing in the world
overcomes the hardest thing in the world.
That which has no substance
enters where there is no space.
This shows the value of non-action.
Teaching without words,
performing without actions:
that is the Master’s way. "
|
| ~ |
Stephen Mitchell,
translation
|
| |
|
| " |
The softest thing in the world
dashes against and overcomes the hardest;
that which has no (substantial) existence
enters where there is no crevice.
I know hereby what advantage belongs
to doing nothing (with a purpose).
There are few in the world who attain
to the teaching without words,
and the advantage arising from non-action. "
|
| ~ |
James Legge,
translation
|
|
|
|
|
supp. v:
ΦMy Philosophical Framework
My Inspirational Beliefs & Principles – now, more fully evolved
Consciousψ Intellect Informed and Expanded by Spirituality§
Symbols & Terminology →
|
This started out as a very simple motto: "Focus forward, informed by my passion, knowledge, and experience."
It was what I needed to climb out of a dark time in my life. Then, I started to make more connections
to beliefs and principles that are inspirational to me. My current FrameworkΦ
is the result of evolution and enrichment to more fully honor
presenceρ,
purposeπ, and
non-attachmentΩ,
and to incorporate
eco-spiritual
wholing
and
mythopoetic
identityΞ.
So, this has become pretty stable for a long-ish time, now,
and the latest changes have been mostly wording and phrasing and formatting, with the beliefs remaining as they are.
The latest concept to be added extends the aspects informing my actions to include Soul-itudeΣ,
as I have only recently tamed some language around describing it.
The notion of interconnectionui also felt important to incorporate over the course of recent learning.
Many of the Mantras, further below, are based on My Philosophical FrameworkΦ, and they are easier to remember.
|
Having experienced
great joy,
great pain,
great loss,
and great gain...
I am here,
nowρ,
and I focus forwardι,
moving ahead ε
from hereρ,
informed by my ever renewing
passion,
knowledge,
experience,
and
Soul-itudeΣ
↗
|
↘
"Real"-izingλ more complete
wholeness⌖,
presenceρ,
and purposeπ
to enrich my life
and the lives of others,
while holding sacredΔ the integrity
of our interconnectednessui
through The WholeΘ and its
Wilderness‡ that bears† us.
|
| |
|
|
| #Terms |
Symbols & Terminology
all symbols that are not just proximal "*" references are indexed/defined/linked here
many terms are defined in various document sections
|
⌖
Wholeness: / Wholing: enriching & integrating
the facets (N, S, E, W) and
subpersonalities
of the
Self
to reach
greater maturity and alignment with the Soul.
Also integration of our "Parts," wounds,
shadows, and our
varieties of defenses to reach greater integrity of
being. Balancing the EgoΙ with Wilderness‡,
Spirit¤,
SoulΙ &
The WholeΘ.
|
❤️🧡💛💚💙💜🖤🤍🤎💔❤️🩹
as impossible as this might be...
Love:
Unconditional acceptance and concern for Other(s);
a deep, soulful
connectionui
with, and
compassionate=
regard for, Other(s).
Falling in Love:
Surrendersu
to Love in a way that shines a light on the Other(s) –
as the
Divine MasculineΔ
God shines his light on the
Divine FeminineΔ
Goddess –
NOT just between "partnered" people,
nor just between men and women
(divineΔ
Masculine and Feminine are not physical male and female),
but just as profoundly between ANY
beingsΒ,
such as between an
Eco-Awakened
person and The Earthξ,
and (importantly) between
EgoΙ
and
SoulΙ...
(see #Soul_Encounter,
#Alan_Watts_Falling_In_Love,
and #love_of_soul)
|
λ
"Real"-izing: bringing into consciousnessψ & the
world through mindfulnessμ
into engagement ε.
Breathing life into metaphors and ideas. This can
range from being quite simple to being
quite a feat.
(see "Delivery System")
|
μ
Mindfulness: a deeper state of consciousnessψ &
discernment that may reach (beyond other things)
Soul-itudeΣ: connection with
Soul's
metaphorical,
mytho-poeticmp identityΞ.
|
ε
Engagement: integration into consciousnessψ and
action: intentionι, involvement, support, defense,
initiative, leadership...Ωη. See:
x. Emergence, Differentiation, Engagement...
|
ι
Intention: having real-izedλ
purposeπ
& strategyσ,
remaining adaptiveη, proactive &
mindfulμ of the
objective, while honoring non-attachmentΩ.
|
ψ
Consciousness: includes introspection, thought,
volition, cognition, experience, and perception...
Unconscious: includes intuition's source, repressed
feelings and desires, shadows, Soul,
subliminal perceptions, automatic skills, complexes, phobias...
sub-conscious is an out-dated, ambiguous term, sometimes still seen; often meaning unconscious.
Preconscious: includes thoughts and information
that are accessible to conscious processes but
have not yet been called into consciousness.
|
Β
Being: includes a stream of awareness of
existence. I include entities that have a Soul or
Spirit. The Living System of The Earthξ is a Being.
Animals, plants, air, fire, water, soil,
E, S, W, N...
Sentient Beings are thought to respond to senses.
Humans are often limited to "the 5 senses,"
while SpiritΛ or mysticism:: is a 6th possibility...
|
ж
Companionship, Confidante:
[Inter-Spirit-u-oul§,Λ]
alliance of equals [especially Companioning-to-Wholeness.]
|
∬
(Inter-)Spirit-u-oul§ Catalyst: alt. for Companionж;
a facilitator that assists in a soul-centered transformation that avoids
infusing personal factors as any integral part of the outcome for the client.
|
Α
Authenticity: truth... integrity... honest
perspective and sincere belief... growing with and
owning good and bad fortune... being what is mine to beΩ.
|
ğ
Gratitude: gratefulness; the quality of being thankful; the readiness to show appreciation and return kindness.
Grace: engagement ε / sacrificesc to benefit others; generous, free, totally unexpected, and undeserved goodwill.
|
~
Sanctuary:
A place of safety, protection, refuge,
or harbor; being safe to be who you are and to be connected to what nourishes you;
EgoΙ
becomes less fearful... less protective... and The Shy SoulΙ is less repressed...
offering better connection
through Soul-itudeΣ.
|
::
Mysticism:
becoming one with or receiving
insight from The Whole or The Great MysteryΘ;
often involving sacred states of consciousness;
allowing understanding of meaning, purpose, and
intention from a spiritual origin;
attainment of insight in ultimate or hidden truths & properties.
See Mysticism
|
=
Compassion: ...is the wish to see others free from suffering. -Dalai Lama
|
|
N
Namaste: I honor the divineΔ wholeness⌖
within you; 🙏 humility of acceptance and affirmation as part of
The WholeΘ; Non-Othering.
|
|
Θ
The Whole:
The Infinite Body,
The Great
Mystery, Great Spirit, One God, or Universal Soul;
The DivineΔ All.
Neo-Eco-Soulismξ; Animismα;
Panentheism; (see Foundation I: The WholeΘ)
|
|
Σ
Soul-itude: state of being deeply familiar with,
in close companionshipж with, or in true communion
with one's
Soul,
and thus, with The WholeΘ.
"Real"-izationλ is then essential...
(see Foundation III: Soul-itudeΣ)
|
|
§
Spirit-u-oul or Spirit-u-ole: a fun and less ambiguous way to refer to the full spectrum of the
transpersonaltp axis,
spanning from
Spirit
to
Soul.
Often, the word "spiritual" is ambiguously used to refer to the full spectrum of this axis,
but "Spirit" is really only in the
transcendentts/ascending
vector of the axis, and "Soul" is in the
inscendentis/descending
vector of the axis.
|
|
‡
Wilderness, Ecology: nature and its spiritual§ energy, as it
has come into balance as our hospitable host; our
(largely forsaken) origin, both around us and (often
repressed) within us, as described in
Wild Mind.
("wild" as being consciousψ of our nature, origin,
and environment, but not uncivilized). A realm where
Neo-Eco-Soulismξ and Animismα might guide us.
|
|
†
bear(v): give birth to... hold... show... tolerate...
withstand... endure... harbor... nurture... shelter...
be marked with... move in the direction of...
|
|
|
...nay: understanding, compassion, love
|
Δ
Divine: theological/philosophical self-/omni-/uni-/arch-/pre-ordained; taken on faith; mythopoetic core.
Holy: person/relationship dedicated to Divine service.
Sacred: object/place set aside for Divine purpose.
|
|
Divine Feminine, Divine Non-Binary, Divine Masculine:
undetermined by physical male or female, nor by
embodied gender or sexual orientation. See:
Divine Balance: When Masculine Aligns with Feminine
|
Ι
Self: includes consciousψ and unconsciousψ; that
which is dominated by EgoΙ; that which achieves
wholeness; that for which
Soul offers purposeπ.
Ego: "I" - the manager of consciousψ integrity;
victim of wounds;
represser of the unacceptable;
preserver, defender, and even hoarder of
external-facing dignity;
interactor/manipulator of
reality, community, society;
satisfier of needs;
a false sense of Self...
Super-Ego: critical, moral conformer of rules...
Id: needs, wants, emotional impulses, desires...
Shadow(s): wounds Ego has repressed into deep
unconsciousness - often requiring efforts on the
magnitude of (perhaps prior to) Soul-itudeΣ to
re-integrate into consciousness for re-wholing and
psycho-spiritualS wellness. Shadows can distort and
obstruct the connection between SoulΙ
and SelfΙ.
Soul: is part of the deep unconsciousness of "I" that
holds my true calling & connection to The Whole. Soul is integral to The WholeΘ
– an immortal facet of the Immortal – and is
interconnectedui with All Souls, and offers a purposefulπ
mytho-poeticmp
identityΞ to Self, to be what is
divinelyΔ
mine to be. Often called The Shy SoulΙ due to it being repressed by the over-protective EgoΙ – requiring some degree of Sanctuary~ and authenticA assurances of safety to offer any glimpses of this abstract treasure.
For all aspects of SelfΙ, see the first 3 Foundations...
I: The WholeΘ – The Great Mystery...
II: The Spirit¤, Spiritual§, Inter-SpiritualΛ
III: The Soul, Soul-itudeΣ
|
|
F
Faith: belief and commitment emerging from
divineΔ
/
mystical::
/ "unproven" origins; complete trust.
|
|
tf
Trans-Faith: ...may not be too much different than
Inter-SpiritualΛ,
but it is more of a transcendent
idea that all the diverse religious/spiritual traditions
and individual humanist perspectives of the world
contribute to Inter-SpiritualΛ synergy in their own
ways – all are interconnectedui and necessarily
included in
The WholeΘ
– none of which would be in conflict when practiced truly
inter-spirituallyΛ. See:
non-dualismΩ;
non-attachmentΩ;
other Non-ismsΩ.
|
|
fr
Fear: a feeling caused by actual or perceived danger or threat; an activating emotion triggering EgoΙ to become defensive, protective, and repressive of vulnerable authenticity; obstructive to
Soul-itudeΣ.
The danger could be indirect through peer pressure.
See:
fear; danger
|
|
sc
Sacrifice: from an Ego perspective – to give up something precious for the direct or indirect benefit of something or someone else;
from a sense of soulful authenticity – there is no sacrifice... only being what is mine to beΩ.
|
|
su
Surrender: from an Ego perspective – to give up our own willfulness to conform to another will;
from a sense of soulful authenticity – there is no surrender... only being what is mine to beΩ, and
to flow with ease in my
purposeπ.
|
|
w
Awe: an overwhelming feeling of reverence, admiration, fear... produced by that which is grand, sublime, extremely powerful, or of great wonder...
|
|
|
|
|
|
supp. vi:
ĴJustice Topics
These topics account for much of the shared suffering in our world...
|
Any one of these could be daunting for any one of us at the scale they have imperiled our society.
This makes it so much more important to know my
identityΞ
and purposeπ
to help focus my energy to prevent trying to solve everything under the sun.
-
Sanctuarial~ Justice —
Non-EgoismΩ
/ Non-FearingΩ
- We must transform from an EgoΙ‑Centric/dominance-oriented social/political model to a SoulΙ‑Centric/Ecoξ‑Centric/loving-communitylc model:
- having Sanctuary~ as a grounding to alleviate fearfr & greed as driving forces,
- and focus on more of what is ours to beΩ.
- Non-PrivilegeΩ
— Inaccessibility to Sanctuary~ is Traumatizing
-
Equal opportunities to access sanctuary, build courage, and find fearlessness must be afforded to the oppressed, disadvantaged & insecure
– neutralizing privilege that results in more difficulty, if not the impossibility, of harboring in sanctuary for a great many folks.
It can be a pervasive source of trauma that sanctuary is not available when needed.
Some categories of Sanctuary that many take for granted are not at all safe to those who have been alienated, traumatized, or threatened in these contexts:
- home
- church*
- law-enforcement & courts
- medical / psychological care
- vacations, retreats, and other get-aways
- other so-called safety-nets...
Sanctuary~
is a delicate and
sacredΔ
place, state-of-mind, and/or principle - candidates of which are spoiled, unsafe, or virtually innaccessible for many
due to lack of awareness, unique needs, limited resources, mis-understandings, insensitivity, exploitation, coersion, and narrowly defined/privileged delivery/access systems
*Religious Trauma is an area of curiosity for me.
| ♪♪ |
. . .
You can't stop the world
for a boy or a girl
Sweet victims of poor circumstances
But you can pour back the love,
sweeping down from above
Giving hope and making more chances
Well, I hope and I pray
that maybe someday
You'll come back down here
and show me the way.
Control yourself,
love is all you need
Control yourself,
open up your heart
Sanctify yourself, sanctify (sanctify)
Be a part of me, sanctify (sanctify)
Sanctify yourself, sanctify (sanctify)
Sanctify yourself, set yourself free . . . ♪♪
|
|
|
| ~ |
Simple Minds
♪♪ Sanctify Yourself ♪♪
(iTunes)
|
|
|
-
#Affirming
Demographic / Affirmation Justice —
Non-PrivilegeΩ /
Non-DiscriminationΩ
- Equality
/ Belonging / Affirmation / Honoring / Interconnection / Dignity...
across many dimensions, including the following and others (pastoral perspective) –
Non‑Othering: I look forward to
connecting with & affirming anyone regardless of:
(alphabetized – no preference, priority, nor exclusion intended by the word usage, order, or examples in this list)
- Ability: Physical, Sensory, Mental, or Otherwise
- Abuse / Harassment: Physical, Sexual, Mental, Emotional, or Otherwise
- Addiction: Recovery Status or Seeking to Play a More Supportive Role
- Age
- Appearance
- Atheism
- Childhood: Raised by Birth Parent(s), Raised by Relatives, Adopted, Orphaned, Abandoned, Taken, Runaway, or Lost
- Children: Natural, Enhanced Fertility, Adopted, Given for Adoption, Taken Away, Runaway, Fostering, Blended, Childless, Lots of Kids, etc.
- Citizenship, Immigration, or Refugee Status
- Civil Culpability, Complaint, or Liability
- Color of Body: Skin, Hair, Eyes, Birthmarks, etc.
- Criminal Culpability, Accusation, Indictment, Prosecution, or Incarceration
- Cult, Cult Membership, Cult Escape, Cult Questioning
- Cultural / Community Exclusion, Excommunication, Exile, or Other Redress
- Economic Factors: Wealth, Debt, Credit Availability, or Otherwise
- Education Level, Place, Method, Equivalency, Credential or not, etc.
- Employment, Employer, Work/Title, or Income Status
- Ethnicity, Ethnic Heritage, Ethnic Values, Ethnic Stigma, Nationality
- Friend or Foe (parle; reaching for common ground)
- Gender: Gender Identity, Expression, or Relationships
- Great Joy or Great Pain... Great Loss or Great Gain... (good or bad fortune)
- Homeless, Housing, or Home Situation
- In or Out of Any Sort of Closet
- Language*
- Liminal, Transitional, Ambiguous, or Other Unresolved Shift of Being
- Marital / Divorce, Partnership, Family, or Domestic Situations
- Mistakes Made
- Mystical Ways of Knowing, Being, Doing, or Connecting
- Nationality or Regionality
- Nature or Environmental Stewardship, Exploitation, or Otherwise
- Non-dualities of
LGBTQQIP2SAA...Lesbian, Gay, Bi‑sexual, Trans‑gender/‑sexual, Queer, Questioning, Inter‑sex, Pan‑sexual, 2‑Spirit, A‑sexual, Allies, others & in-betweens... (more)
- Physical Un/Wellness
- Politics, Patriotism, Activism, Cynicism
- Pregnancy, Miscarriage, Abortion, or Birth Control
- Psychological Un/Wellness
- Race, Racial Heritage, Racial Values, Racial Stigma
- Religion, Religious Trauma, Religious Questioning, Religious Escape
- Runaway, Emancipated, Escapee / Fugitive, or Seeking Sanctuary / Safety
- Servitude or Slavery; Sexual or Other Forced Actions
- Sex: Sexual Embodiment, Expression, Orientation, or Relationships
- Social Class
- Spirituality, Philosophy, Humanism, or Ethicism
- Surviving Extermination, Genocide, or Persecution
- Surviving Suicide: Attempts or Thoughts; Yourself or Concerning Others
- Surviving Torture, Brainwashing, or "Conversion" Therapy
- Surviving... the catastrophic / extraordinary things we have survived
- Tattoos, Piercings, etc.
- Toxic Patriarchy, Matriarchy, Monarchy, or Hierarchies of other sorts
- Trauma: intense, possibly repeated, emotional response to a terrible experience
- Victim of rape, incest, pedophilia, assault, or violation of trust/power dynamics
- ... I think many more can be specifically named ...
- all Diversity of Identity as multi-dimensional non-dualityΩ 🙏 NamasteN
- being a beneficiary, victim, or witness of any variety of circumstances, factors, shaming, isolation, difficulty, or defining experiences
- including degrees or blendings within or across any of the above
- guessing about misunderstood clues, misguided intuition, or relying on our own unique (or assumed common) identity often results in disconnection, alienation, and separating / othering.
- we will decide together whether pastoral care is sufficient... pertinent... a step along the way... or just the right way to see our souls and find our sanctuary and loving community...
- *when a mismatch of skills comes up, we must simply determine if we can find an effective work-around or if other assistance is necessary.
| " |
Differences are not intended
to separate, to alienate.
We are
different precisely in order to
realize our need of one another. "
|
|
|
| ~ |
Desmond Tutu
|
|
|
-
#Ecological_Justice
Ecological Justice —
Non-DominionismΩ
- Stewardship/Partnership/Companionshipж with The Environment & The Diverse Systems that Allow Our Whole World to Thrive:
- Balanced Eco-Centrism, Environmentalism, Population
- Balanced Waste, Polution & Environmental Impact with True Greater Good
- Balanced Energy Generation, Usage, Impact
- Balanced Raw Material Extraction, Usage, Impact
- Balanced Bio-Mass Harvesting/Slaughtering, Usage, Impact
- Balanced Climate Impact: Atmosphere, Oceans, Ecological Systems, Weather
- Balanced Morality and Religious / Spiritual Liberties
| ♪♪ |
. . .
and it's too easy
to turn a blind eye to the light;
it's too easy
to bow your head and pray.
but there are some times
when you should try to find your voice,
and this is one voice
that you must find today.
are you hoping for a miracle
as the ice caps melt away.
no use hoping for a miracle;
there's a price we'll have to pay . . . ♪♪
|
|
|
| ~ |
Above & Beyond / OceanLab, "Sirens of the Sea"
♪♪ Miracle ♪♪
(iTunes)
|
|
|
| " |
It is impossible to care for each other
more or differently
than we care for the Earth. "
|
|
| " |
Whether we and our politicians know it or not,
Nature is party to all our deals and decisions,
and she has more votes, a longer memory,
and a sterner sense of justice than we do. "
|
|
| ~ |
Wendell Berry
|
|
|
- Economic Justice —
Non-PrivilegeΩ
- There is so much sustenance available in the world that all should have:
- Humanitarian Health/Shelter
- Education
- Service (service to society)
- Leisure
- Balanced Systems of Resources, Production, Consumption & Recycling
| ♪♪ |
. . .
Don't you know
Talkin' bout a revolution sounds
like a whisper . . . ♪♪
|
|
|
| ~ |
Tracy Chapman, Declaration of Human Rights
♪♪ Talkin' Bout a Revolution ♪♪
(iTunes)
|
|
|
- Ethical & Legal Justice —
Non-PrivilegeΩ
- Once we have overcome fear and ego-centrism, it should be a natural next step to ensure:
- Integrity
- Transparency
- Equality
- Safety
- Peace
- and Due Process...
- Non-CorruptionΩ — Preserving Precisely the Full Favor of Faithfulness:
- Nothing Less; Nothing More. It seems that many systems work, theoretically, except for the corruption and exploitation that emerges to exclude many from benefits received by others for no good reason; we need to have a positive way of stating what needs to be achieved to avoid this...
|
supp. vii:
ΞWhispers-with-Forests
My Soul's Name and Place for Me
Mytho-poeticmp Identity
–
Fruit of Soul-itudeΣ
|
|
My SoulΙ's name for me is, "Whispers-with-Forests." This name is prominent in my authenticΑ
and humbly encountered
Soul-itudeΣ.
When you call out for "Whispers-with-Forests," you are calling me into loving communitylc and for my Soulful presenceρ and Purposeπ to be what is mine to be.
(Mom & Dad named me Scott, so when they call Scott, they get it all. But if they ever call "Whispers-with-Forests," that would be more startling and riveting than when they call "Scott Allan Godlew!")
The Mytho-Poeticmp Metaphor of ΞWhispers-with-Forests
Forests provide special Sanctuary~ for me and Trees and many other Souls, both human and other-than-human.
My connections to Trees and Forests as Sanctuary~ offer me strength and foundation. The Wilderness‡ is the well spring of my whispering,
not just with the Trees and their surroundings, but with other Souls needing Sanctuary~ from whatever torments them, or needing a place of re-grounding, re-newal, re-wilding, and/or re-birth.
These connections give me focus for my ecological and mystical:: Purposeπ and motivation for action, not just to support and nurture ecology and culture,
but to bring others into a more thriving ecology and offer ways of being in a more grounded culture as part of their Wholing⌖ with all that is more-than-human.
Trees, other plants, animals, the land, rivers, and all Souls dwelling in The Forest have ancient understandings of how to exist in ecology AS their culture and Sanctuary~, and we need to be presentρ with them, and listen,
and merely whisper what we may be inspired to ask and seek to understand from an ecological perspective with humilityη.
~ Whispers-with-ForestsΞ
|
|
Interesting reading:
The Overstory, by Richard Powers
trees, non-attachment, Soul-itudeΣ, gratitude, wilderness...
A Hidden Wholeness, by Parker Palmer
Soul-itudeΣ, gratitude, deep-listening, open/honest questions...
The Inner Voice of Love, by Henri J. M. Nouwen
Soul-itudeΣ, The Whole, loving communitylc, loving deeply...
|
supp. viii:
πMy Purpose
This is why I'm here...
"Real"-ized λ Through All 5 Foundations, especially
Soul‑itudeΣ
|
| #Purpose |
My purpose – doing only by being what is mine to be – is to work in
companionshipж
& presenceρ
with others as a Catalyst∬
to enrich our mutual abilities to thrive in our seemingly
daunting & woundedĴ
world... as we struggle to love deeply & seek
loving communitylc
with human & other-than-human
SoulsΙ
– exploring the dynamics of rational &
mystical::
ways of knowing.
I will work person-to-person & with small groups... in natureξ as much as possible:
|
•
|
to find sanctuary~ from the pressures & noises of the world & its demands.
|
|
•
|
to cultivate our self-care & wholeness⌖ for robust & balanced well-being.
|
|
•
|
and to notice & listen to our own soulful inner voices, & real-izeλ spiritual§ connections with the Wilderness‡ & other SoulsΙ of all sorts that touch us.
|
As we find our centers & grow into our wholeness⌖, we will begin to emerge into a way of being in loving communitylc & being at peace & in league with the world & its diversity. We may endeavor to grow more resiliently into our Soul-itudeΣ.
I will be ever vigilantΩ in Soul-itudeΣ and with Inter-SpiritualΛ inspiration to recognize or envision opportunities to engageε – participate, lead, initiate; with due humilityη and presenceρ – to bring aboutΩ
A Great Re-Wholing of All Beings.
~ Whispers-with-ForestsΞ
|
|
|
|
One day, I was imagining what it is about being in loving community
that is so assuring and so abundantly generative of both grace and gratitude.
The imaginations were percolating up into feelings and inspirations that were somewhat abstract,
but I managed to find words to realize consciousness for many of the ideas –
tapping into mytho-poetic soulful senses to reach some poetically concrete intentions
as a deep listener and caring companion.
This blends into my intention to be a catalyst and not an X-splainer.
|
| #Do_you_know_that_I_love_you |
Do you know that I love you...?
|
Do you know
|
| |
that I love you?
|
|
Do you know
|
| |
you have nothing to prove to me?
|
|
Do you know
|
| |
that I want to understand, but I already understand how difficult understanding can be for either of us?
|
|
Do you know
|
| |
I would look for the best in you, and disbelieve the worst — hoping to some day understand the truth?
|
|
Do you know
|
| |
I would support you in any way I could?
|
|
Do you know
|
| |
your sanctuary, safety, and self-identity are paramount to me?
|
|
Do you know
|
| |
that I melt and shed my armor when you look my way... hear my pain... say my name... offer your presence...?
|
|
Do you know
|
| |
that my soul sees your soul, and we only need to be true to what our souls see in each other: how ever little or much?
|
|
Do you know
|
| |
how amazing you are to me and to the world?
|
|
Do you know
|
| |
we are catalysts for each other, and I don’t want to impose my ways onto you, and I value our diversity?
|
|
Do you know
|
| |
I will listen deeply to your needs and ambitions and ideas, and recognize your humanity and celebrate your ingenuity?
|
|
Do you know
|
| |
that our connection is as valuable as anything else I can imagine, and I am powerless to break it?
|
|
Do you know
|
| |
that I will mind my other business if you need me to be non-involved with you or honor other boundaries?
|
|
Do you know
|
| |
that I never want to hurt you, and I become sad if I do?
|
|
Do you know
|
| |
that I forgive you and I want us to move through and beyond any trouble we may encounter?
|
|
Do you know
|
| |
that the interspiritual connection, not only between us but with the world, makes the world more whole?
|
|
Do you know
|
| |
it is impossible to enumerate everything I want to say?
|
| |
. . .
|
|
Do you know that I love you? Namaste 🙏
|
~ Whispers-with-ForestsΞ
|
|
|
| " |
Yesterday I met a whole [⌖] person [!]
It is a rare experience, but always an illuminating and ennobling one.
It costs so much to be a full human being that there are very few who have the enlightenment and the courage to pay the price...
- One has to abandon altogether the search for security, and reach out to the risk of living with both arms;
[non‑fearingΩ]
One has to embrace the world like a lover, and yet demand no easy return on love;
[non‑egoismΩ]
One has to accept pain as a condition of existence;
[non‑denialΩ; presenceρ]
One has to court doubt and darkness as the cost of knowing;
[non‑rationalΩ] and
One needs a will stubborn in [adversity], yet open always to the total acceptance of every consequence of living and dying.
[non‑attachmentΩ] "
|
| ~ |
Morris West, Shoes of the Fisherman
|
[Non-ismsΩ; Wholeness⌖]
|
|
|
|
The future is impossible to predict. My entire technologyτ career had targets, but then there were miracles and unexpected turns,
and I always just took stock of my current situation and opportunities, and as in my motto, my "passion, knowledge, and experience"
showed me the way. It is always a matter of
being present
– here, now – and then seeing how to "move ahead from here, informed by
my ever evolving passion, knowledge, and experience..." This practice or realization allows for miracles and unexpected turns to be part of the evolution,
and so the future can be realized as unpredictable to my egoΙ –
non-attachment.
|
|
However, as I get more acquainted with my Soul and these
purposeπ
it is uniquely suited to fulfill, I am coming to realize my
psycho-ecological-niche,
as revealed by gentle contemplation with my Soul. My journey to Soul and my way of presenceρ with my Soul is unique, and it has emerged into and through
my meditation practice and being in my loving communitylc. My Soul has differentiated as part of The Whole... with
knowing its
wild and natural architecture, and my Soul and my various parts coming to know their place, specialized purposeπ, and transitional states
along the way.
|
|
In retrospect, I think of my technologyτ career as an HUGE detour,
but I didn't think of it that way very much as I was in the thick of it.
I don't regret any of it, since I have been just adapting to the present and my soulful purposeπ at any given point.
Whatever preparatory steps I have taken along the way have contributed their knowledge and experience, and revealed my passion,
and shaped my wisdom and vision.
|
|
From my current point of
presenceρ,
I have a view more clear than ever of my soulful purposeπ ahead of me.
Even since starting to create this written artifact of my transition – nay, transformation – the tactics and timings have
evolved, so I know better than to sit complacently with my current knowledge and understanding... but I also know I need to keep moving as a way to know
how the details will become refined and emerge and evolve around me (The Whole) and within me.
The differentiation is not an event, but a process, perhaps with discrete steps, with a purposefulπ outcome...
Perhaps
embryogenesis,
stem cells,
and
immunological antibodies
are possible metaphors...?
And as the cells and proteins become differentiated and interconnectedui and aware of the niche in which they find themselves, their individual and collective purpose becomes more specific and clear.
|
|
supp. x:
The Emergence, Differentiation, and
Engagement ε with My SoulfulΣ
Purposeπ
Spiritual§ History, Broader Presenceρ, and Purposefulπ Chart for My
χCourse
Ahead
|
| |
"What is Mineη To Do?" (Non-ismsΩ)
Shaped by My Soul-itudeΣ
and
PhilosophyΦ
It all Converges in The Gamma QuadrantΓ
| presenceρ |
engagement ε: intentionι
courseχ of action
────────────────────> |
community |
(non-attachmentΩ)
|
(purposeπ)
|
(The WholeΘ)
|
| |
repeat...
re-assessment of presenceρ
refinement of purpose
rechart of course |
|
|
| | |
| Key: |
| • | It's a thing, or a detail 🤓 º loose end |
| ✓ | Done, historical artifact; ✓✓ Having Reached a Definitive Conclusion
|
| → | On-Going; Work in Progress
[collective sense of presenceρ within my life]
|
| ▹ | Downstream; Purposefulπ Target
[allowing for
non-attachmentΩ]
|
|
|
| |
→ | |
In my current presenceρ, being mindful that my early presence & purpose were not evolved to their current nature → |
| |
✓ | |
Scott's early Religious, Leadership, Naturalist, and Spiritual§ Awakening Evolution: |
| |
|
✓ | |
United Methodist Church upbringing (1962 - ~1990s) |
| |
|
→ | |
Family camping trips and land exploration → |
| |
|
→ | |
Van Buren Youth Camp (1970 →) |
| |
| |
✓ | |
Van Buren Folk Dancers (1976 - 1980, pres. 79-80) |
| |
|
✓ | |
Bangor High School Peer Counselor (1978-ish - 1980-ish) |
| |
→ | |
Scott's Technologyτ Career (resumé: many details here...) (~1980 → ... 2024? ✓?) |
| |
|
| |
✓ | |
The inspiration: TRS-80 Model I w/Z-80 micro-processor, Level-2 BASIC, lower-case character ROM, LNW Research expansion interface, 48K RAM, dual TEAC double-sided/double-density 5.25" floppy disk drives, Epson MX-80 printer, 1200 baud modem, compilers, assemblers, word processors, spreadsheets, terminal emulators... (1979 - 85 ✓)
|
| |
✓ | |
BS Computer Science, Michigan Technological University (1980 - 84 ✓)
| |
| |
✓ | |
MS Computer Science, National Technological University (1992 ✓)
| |
| |
✓ | |
having
served | : | Hewlett-Packard, Herman Miller, JPMorgan Chase, McGraw Hill,
Ernst & Young, State Farm, Forcepoint, and others along the way ... ✓ |
| |
| |
▹ | |
and now matriculating into Sandia National Labs to keep on track... 7-10-2023? →
| |
|
| |
|
→ | |
note τ "doing the work" to re-integrate my "Part" – The Technologistτ →
|
| |
✓ | |
Mid-Career Notable / Impactful Experiences (pre-2017) |
| |
|
º | |
2 classes shy of BS Psychology, Colorado State Univ. (1992 - 94) |
| |
|
✓ | |
Crisis Intervention Hotline |
| |
|
→ | |
Care and Conservation of Birdseye House (2007 →) |
| |
|
✓ | |
Middle School Student Mentoring |
| |
|
→ | |
Having reached an apex in my Technologyτ Career... → |
| |
|
→ | |
Having come of age through the accelerating human impact on climate and environmental exploitation and destruction... → |
| |
|
→ | |
Having seen the impact of capitalist/systemic privilege and discrimination... → |
| |
|
→ | |
Having lived through the 9/11 attack within eyesight of ground-zero in NYC and the insecurity of the months and years and reactions following it... → |
| |
|
→ | |
Having answered the call of compassion in some cases, and having turned my head away in others... → |
| |
|
→ | |
Having witnessed the new emergence of
fascism and intolerance... → |
| |
|
→ | |
Having walked on egg-shells and been left to sweep them up in the wind... → |
| |
|
→ | |
Having witnessed the impact of dehumanization, trauma, and depression... → |
| |
|
→ | |
Having hoped for the turning of the corners without knowing how to turn... → |
| |
✓✓ | |
Divorce – 11/1/1986 -
8/21/2017 1:15 /
the time of the eclipse /
after 30+ years ✓✓ |
| |
|
→ | |
note δ
the emergence of presenceρ and purposeπ... after this devastating outcome →
|
|
| |
Here, Now... + renewed passion, knowledge, experience & Soul-itudeΣ
→ shaping the ever evolving future →
|
|
| |
→ | |
There's ♪♪ Something More Than This ♪♪
(lyrics), by October Project
(iTunes)
✓ τ δ
✓ → |
| |
• | |
Psycho-SpiritualS Therapy:
devastated, attached, demoralized, depressed, frantic, grief ⧴⪼
→ detachment, gratitude, humility, compassion, forgiveness, wisdom, and peace → |
| |
→ | |
Scott's Meditation Practice (... 2017 →) |
| |
|
→ | |
more practice enriches and refines how I am tuned-in and up-to-date with Soul → |
| |
✓ | |
Ralph Deal Seminar: Recovery After Divorce (✓ 2017) |
| |
→ | |
Unitarian-Universalist Church of Urbana-Champaign – UUCUC: |
| |
|
→ | |
I am a Member! finally found my interspiritual communitylc! (2017 →) |
| |
|
✓ | |
Various committees/groups: Social Action, Death w/Dignity, Membership,
Divorce Covenant Group, Warm-Line, COVID Task Force... (✓ 2017-21) |
| |
|
→ | |
Soul Matters Small Group Facilitator (✓ 2018 →) |
| |
| |
▹ | |
How I re-blend this with Quaker Traditions (Fall of 2022 →) |
|
| |
|
→ | |
Senior High Youth / YRUU: Young Radical UUs – adult facilitator (✓ 2022 →) |
| |
|
▹ | |
UU Companion Ministry (▹ 2022/23/24? → see Gamma QuadrantΓ) | |
|
| |
|
→ | |
Met Theresa Benson @ UUCUC – What an amazing person !! (2018 →) |
| |
| |
• | |
Raised 3 amazing children (now adults) as a single mother – they get along!
→ bright... talented... independent... ambitious... compassionate... → →
→ Sierra / New Media (incredibly artistic & creative)...
→ Paul / Cinematography (incredibly artistic & creative)...
→ Isaac / Architecture (incredibly artistic & creative)...
→ I am the humble step-dude... stay out of the way... help if I can... → →
→ maybe the Companioningж-to-Wholeness⌖ model will help...
|
|
| |
• | |
Holistic Health Educator (MA, JFK University)
|
| |
• | |
Ph.D. Counseling Psychology, Univ. of Akron – Licensed Clinical Psychologist
(we met at church – I was never a client of hers)
|
| |
• | |
Internal Family Systems
(well down the certification track)
|
| |
• | |
Registered Expressive Arts Therapist
|
| |
• | |
Soul Collage Practitioner and Guide
|
| |
• | |
"Dancing Heart" – Guide Between the Wild Realms Leading to Wholeness
|
| |
• | |
Entrepreneur: Wild Heart Seed Wisdom Center, LLC...
|
| |
• | |
Zen Buddhist Practitioner and Student of The Precepts
|
| |
• | |
Ordained Interfaith & Interspiritual Minister (One Spirit 2015 - 17)
→ Chris & Ashley married in Birdseye House;
Rev. Theresa officiating 2019
|
| |
• | |
Labyrinth Practitioner, Constructor & Guide
|
| |
• | |
Master Gardener, Master Naturalist
|
| |
• | |
UU committees/groups: Pastoral Care/Companioning, Creativity/Soul Matters, Worship Cmte., Assoc. Minister Renewal Cmte.
|
| |
→ | |
Grace...
|
Presenceρ / noticing + passion, knowledge, experience
→ sacred connection ♥ Soul-mates 2018 → |
→ |
|
|
| |
→ | |
Animas Valley Institute, Bill Plotkin, PhD: |
| |
| |
• | |
Two Streams:
• Wild Mind – healing and wholing and rewilding the Self; prelude to soul work.
• Underworld of Soul – beware, travelers satisfied with the story they're living! |
| |
| |
✓ | |
Wild Mind Intensive (✓ 2018)
Facets of Wholeness⌖: |
| |
|
• | |
North: Nurturing Generative Adult
|
| |
|
• | |
South: Wild‡ Indigenous One
|
| |
|
• | |
East: Innocent/Sage, Sacred Fool, Trickster
|
| |
|
• | |
West: Dark Muse-Beloved, Shadow, Anima/Animas, Guide to Soul
|
| |
|
✓ | |
Nature & The Human Soul Intensive – Whispers-with-ForestsΞ (✓ 2020) |
| |
|
→ | |
Weekly Soulcraft Musings, Dr. Bill Plotkin & guests (archive) → |
| |
|
▹ | |
Soulcraft Intensive (▹ REGISTERED: Fall of 2022: Oct. 8-12) |
|
| |
→ | |
Married Theresa Benson at Birdseye House 🏡 (our home!)
Feb. 8, 2020 – #GoingGodlew2020
Mrs. Theresa Godlew; Dr. Theresa Benson
Rev. Zenshin Florence Caplow officiating,
with many family, church-mates, and friends in attendance
|
→
|
| |
|
... | |
one of the biggest challenges to
non-attachment
known to humanity ... |
| |
|
✓ | |
Honeymoon in San Juan, PR – we just beat COVID-19‼️ (2020) |
| |
|
→ | |
Weathering the COVID-19 pandemic together... (2020/21/22/? →) |
| |
|
✓ | |
185 year old Silver Maple came down – saved the trunk... (2020) |
| |
|
✓ | |
Kitchen Remodel/Restore for Birdseye House (2020/21) |
| |
|
✓ | |
Repaint the exterior of Birdseye House – looking spry again (2021) |
| |
|
✓ | |
The Great Northwest Railroad Odyssey (#GoingGodlew2021) |
| |
→ | |
Center for Courage & Renewal: Circles of Trust... Clearness Committees... 2020 → |
| |
|
→ | |
Deep listening... hearing our shy Souls... connection... openness... → |
| |
| |
▹ | |
QHow I blend this into UUCUC Soul Matters (Fall of 2022) → |
|
| |
→ | |
One Spirit Learning Alliance: |
| |
|
✓ | |
InterFaith Seminary (Fall of 2021 → Spring of 2023 → Rev. Scott Godlew) ✓ |
| |
|
| |
upon ordination & graduation: here is "Reverend" Scott Godlew ✓
|
| |
|
▹ | |
The Art of Spiritual Direction (& Companioning) at Ghost Ranch (▹ Fall of 2023 → Spring of 2025) → |
| |
→ | |
Center for Action & Contemplation, Daily Meditations, Fr. Richard Rohr & guests (archive) → |
| |
▹ | |
University of Illinois Extension: |
| |
|
✓ | |
Master Naturalist ✓ Classwork complete ✓ Intern as of Aug 18, 2022 → volunteer hours ahead → |
|
|
•••
|
ΓThe Gamma Quadrant – Blended Retirement Transformation: |
| |
→ | |
The technologyτ and awakening years have served as a source of
knowledge, experience, wisdom, and resources, and have revealed
my passion and brought me to this place.
|
| |
→ | |
Proposed ⌘Manzanita Companioningж-to-Wholeness⌖ Model™:
Service-oriented; mutual
presenceρ &
compassion; meeting together where we are
on level ground that fosters mutual
respectΡ,
mutual enrichment &
non-attachment:
- connecting
-
generating the initial interspiritual energy to be curious and to form an intention to relate
- companioning
-
bolstering our connection with equity, non-attachment, and intention to journey togetherж
- sheltering/harboring/nurturing
-
being able to find sanctuary~ and resources for grounding, safety, and peace
- holding space
-
being there; being engaged ε in companionship; being available to support; attentive with compassion
- seeing/hearing/receiving
-
deep listening; understanding; being able to comprehend the intended messages and feelings of our companion
- mirroring/honoring/returning
-
being able to demonstrate our understanding and honor our companion's ownership of their situation
- cultivating self-care
-
achieving efficacy in reaching peace with Self, people
& the world
- rewilding
-
being better connected to our inherent strengths and needs, and better connected to nature and the Four Directions
- healing
-
tending to our wounds; not necessarily curing or removing, but soothing, repairing, befriending, honoring, and holding space
- wholing
-
expanding into our facets of wholeness while integrating all of our parts
- Souling
-
becoming compassionately present with our Souls, and knowing our Souls' place in The Whole: encountering Soul-itudeΣ
- reinforcing
-
being able to leave sanctuary~ with what was needed upon entering, and as revealed by our Souls
- loving communitylc
-
having achieved Soulful self-presence, now making Soulful, spiritual§, compassionate connections with others
- engaging
-
bringing our purpose into reality and action, and being inter-spiritually integrated in purpose with our communitylc
|
| |
→ Companioningж has a metaphor in cellular biology: B-cells and T-cells ←
|
| |
→ I offer ever growing knowledge/experience to guide as a catalyst∬ as needed...
|
| |
→ Some scenarios to consider:
|
| |
|
• |
WHAT IF DEPRESSION IS,
IN FACT, A FORM OF
GRIEF FOR OUR OWN
LIVES NOT BEING AS
THEY SHOULD? WHAT IF
IT IS A FORM OF GRIEF
FOR THE CONNECTIONS
WE HAVE LOST.
YET STILL NEED?
IS ENLIGHTENED CONSCIOUSNESS
~ JOHANN HARI
|
|
• |
...
~ ...
|
|
| |
▹ | |
UU Companion Ministry (▹ 2022/23/24 → → see UUCUC*)
|
| |
▹ | |
A joint service venture with my wife: Wild Heart Seed Wisdom Center, LLC
|
| |
? Theresa and I could be The Manzanita Maniacs™ 🤓 🤣 ?
   
|
| |
▹ | |
revenue-generating as warranted and needed... (e.g. Sandia Nat'l Labs 7-10-2023?)
|
| |
▹ | |
Engaged ε toward purposeπ with zeal and non-attachment: ▹ 2023 / 25 ◃
|
| |
▹ | |
"Whispers-with-Souls" → Companioningж to enrich Soul-itudeΣ → → →
|
| |
→ | |
Development of Road Runner Retreat & Healing Arts Center, Coyote, NM → → →
|
|
| |
• |
|
Other Parts... |
| |
• |
|
My Theologicalβ "Part" – emerging from my ever revealing purposeπ |
| |
→ |
|
note β "doing the work" to temper my zealous new "Part" – The Theologistβ →
|
|
| Γ ▹
Gamma Quadrant: The bold green background items are the downstream targets – where my current passion, knowledge, experience, and
Soul-itudeΣ
are drawing me forward, through transformation and reshaping, from where I am now – the strongest vision I have encountered up to now. I know the target will move, and the vision will evolve further, and I am allowing for
non-attachment,
but I am focused forward. The journey continues... →
|
Let your Light shine:
Brightly in the morning...
Like birds declaring the new day.
Steady in the evening...
A welcoming beacon in the dark.
With gentle assurance in service...
Humble generosity of compassion.
On reignition from a Divine spark...
Grateful acceptance of love.
Let our Lights shine!
~ Whispers-with-ForestsΞ
|
|
| β →
I am finding a need to address the worries of a new
"Part"
–
The Theologistβ
–
in that it is concerned that any further time spent with The Technologistτ will spoil the momentum of the emerging transformation... essentially
attached
to itself! →
|
→
Some iterative, adaptive, interim compartmentalization and integration is needed...
re-applying the course charting approach of using
presence
and
purpose...
balancing financial obligations and spiritual needs harmoniously...
honoring
Non-isms
and
Soul-itudeΣ...
intentions flowing with the transformation...
and living with
non-attachment*... ☺️🤓 → |
|
*
I cannot be now what / where I am not...
but my
authentic
purpose / intentions are part of my being. → 2023/24
|
| δ →
I have done extensive work to realize peace,
gratitude,
humility, compassion, forgiveness, wisdom, and a
detached
perspective of the darkness, trauma, and depression of my devastating and
demoralizing
divorce in 2017.
Irony is evident in the happenstance of the scheduling of the procedure to certify the documents in a 15 minute interval during which the 2017 solar eclipse occurred – without any special request, to my knowledge.
→ |
✓✓ Having reached a painful state of dissatisfied
attachment(s),
we thoroughly cooperated to remove the platform for having any further such
distachment(s)...
We knew no
other way , then. ✓✓
|
In Our Tears
By Secret Garden
Album: Dreamcatcher
(Much more beautiful if you have the album)
There is the most beautiful, mournful viola that gives voice to my emotions...
|
(Latin)
Miserere nobis
Lacrimae meae panis
Dona nobis pacem
Meum cor contritum est.
Miserere nobis
Lucerna verbum tuum
Firmamentum meum
Benedictus Dominus
Dona nobis pacem
Benedictus Dominus
|
|
(English)
Have mercy on us
My tears Of sorrow
Grant us peace
My heart is broken.
Have mercy on us
The lamp is
my support
Praise the Lord!
Grant us peace
Praise the Lord!
|
|
| |
|
Since then...
→ "Focus forward, informed by my passion, knowledge, and experience." →
This motto emerged initially from my divorce recovery work. My current philosophical frameworkΦ
is the result of evolution and enrichment to more fully honor
presenceρ,
purposeπ, and
non-attachment,
and to incor-porate
eco-spiritual
wholing
and mytho-poeticmp
identityΞ
– sort of: what hasn't killed me has made me stronger; or maybe it did kill me, and I am reborn or reincarnated as I am now. →
|
|
Coming of Growth
|
look back fondly on so much that was joyful...
contemplate tenderly what arises that was painful...
and heed
presence
and
purpose
in being more mindful...
honor grief for the losses
with
authenticity...
offer gratitude for the gains
with due
humility...
and heed
presence
and
purpose
in being more mindful...
|
|
~ Scott Godlew
|
|
|
I shared this poem with my ex-wife – only the last line has been added since then as a repetition of an earlier line.
She was gracious enough to characterize it as a "lovely expression of sentiment," which is comforting to me.
I emphasized that I do not intend it as advice, but only as a part of my process of coming to my present way of being.
I think our brief exchange helps me to appreciate how peace-achieving Inter-Spiritual connection can be, even if she might frame it positively using her own context and allegorical framework.
|
|
|
substitute any
wound
for "grief"
|
|
These mantras are derived from my other material, above, especially My Philosophical FrameworkΦ.
They are motivated and patterned from the Hindu spiritual mantra practices from seminary.
The
VOW
evolved from one of the mantras, and having it here, in this context, is informative,
and this
VOW
was taken for my One Spirit Interfaith Seminary Ordination on Wednesday 07 June 2023.
|
|
|
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| |
□ |
|
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| |
□ |
|
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| |
□ |
|
|
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| |
• |
|
|
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| |
• |
|
|
|
|
| |
• |
|
|
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|
| |
• |
|
Non-Attachment... Non-Dualism... Non-Doing...
just Being what is Mine To Be...
|
[Non-ismsΩ
Humilityη]
|
|
|
|
| |
∞ |
|
|
|
|
| |
Ⓢ |
|
|
|
|
| |
Ⓢ |
|
|
|
|
#VOW
7
June
2023
|
|
|
|
|
From the One Spirit Hindu Pranayama Breathing Exercises...
|
| |
|
| | | • | Inhale: Truth... | [is it true, necessary, kind,
helpful, inspiring] |
| | | | • Exhale: Consequences... |
| |
|
| | | • | Inhale: Integrity... | [purity, wholeness, honesty,
peace-achieving] |
| | | | • Exhale: Corruption... |
| |
|
| | | • | Inhale: Non-Attachment... | [simplicity, forgiveness, in but not
of the world, Non‑isms Ω] |
| | | | • Exhale: Forcing... |
| |
|
| |
| | Perhaps also... |
| |
| |
|
| | | • | Inhale: Graceğ... | [gift, unconditional, unearned,
gratitude] |
| | | | • Exhale: Quid pro quo... |
| |
|
| | | • | Inhale: Compassion... | [seeing, feeling, understanding,
engaging] |
| | | | • Exhale: Self-absorbed... |
| |
|
|
From the One Spirit Buddhist Anapana Breathing Exercises...
|
| | | • Breathe In: I am like the sun... |
| | | • Breathe Out: I shine brightly... |
| |
| | Perhaps also... |
| |
| | | • Breathe In: I am reading this book... |
| | | • Breathe Out: I seek its wisdom in my consciousness ψ... |
|
From the One Spirit Buddhist Gatha (mindful verses) Exercises...
|
| | | • Waking up this morning, I smile... |
| | | Twenty-four brand new hours are before me... |
| | | I vow to live fully in each moment... |
| | | and to look at all beings with eyes of compassion. |
| |
| | Perhaps also... |
| |
| | | • As I begin my homework, I am grateful... |
| | | My teachers have placed thoughtful challenges before me... |
| | | I vow to consolidate my knowledge and understanding... |
| | | and to respond with originality, humility, and
authenticity. |
|
#Metta_Meditation
|
|
Buddhism Loving Kindness
|
Sanskrit: मैत्री (Maitrī)
Pali: Mettā
English: metta (roots: gentle; friend)
|
"The Buddha described a true friend as being a helper, someone who will protect us when we are unable to take care of ourselves, who will be a refuge to us when we are afraid. ...The culmination of metta is to become such a friend to all of life.
– Sharon Salzberg, Loving Kindness: The Revolutionary Art of Happiness
|
| • | | Metta Meditation: (OSIS, Rev. Diane Berke, inspired by Stephen Levine) |
| | | May I be filled with loving kindness... |
| | | May I be free from suffering and fear... |
| | | May I accept myself and others completely... |
| | | May I be happy and at peace. |
| |
| | Perhaps also... |
| |
| • | | Metta Meditation: (my UU Minister, Rev. Zenshin Florence Caplow) |
| | | May I be safe... |
| | | May I be happy... |
| | | May I be healthy... |
| | | May I be peaceful and at ease. |
| |
|
• | | mmMetta Meditation: (a blend that I like**) |
| | | May I be filled with loving kindness and
humility η... |
| | | May I be safe and healthy... |
| | | May I be accepting and happy... |
| | | May I be peaceful and at ease. |
|
| |
| |
**
This meditation variation forms pairs of roughly outward intentionsι and roughly inward states,
including all of what Florence and Diane have offered.
(Being "free from suffering and fear" is covered – according to my broader sensibility – by being healthy and safe.)
I added
humility η.
It is clear that there are some core concepts and some latitude for enrichment and arrangement.
I have encountered many variations from reputable / qualified practitioners.
|
|
The ways I believe these meditations spread joy, healing, and more general "metta" into the world include:
| • |
Tuning my attitude to be kind and loving intentionallyι and
observablyη outward toward others. |
| • |
Tuning my attitude to be kind and loving within, and thus being
demonstrated in my demeanor and behaviorη
to be a distinct or even subtle example outward toward others. |
| • |
Tuning my energyη
to flow from my Soul through The Whole and into the Souls of others from within. |
| |
All of these could be said about authentic prayer more generally. I believe all three channels are important.
The more subtle ways are helpful for all, but often most helpful for the well-healed and well-tuned among us.
The more outwardly noticeable ways are more important for others who are struggling or may need
supportη that also
comforts their EgoΙ to be less guarded and less obstructive to the more subtle ways.
Care must be taken to avoid exploitation and the creation of attachment and dependence,
as different EgosΙ with different wounds have developed different defense mechanisms.
The more noticeable ways are often expressed in teamwork as gifts and acts of
graceη
(e.g., collective generosity and volunteerism).
|
ΡRespect
This is My Promise of Respect (perhaps still a bit rough around the edges...)
Respect is something that I think we should be able to expect from anyone,
but it just doesn't happen as often as I have hoped as part of my experience.
I want you to know that I aspire to treat you with a high degree of respect.
Here are some notes that I have put together and refined over the course of
time. It might make for some further conversation at some point...
I say this Promise to you Willingly and Knowingly and Purposefully,
and only after careful and due diligence of consideration...
You deserve - unconditionally:
- Dignity & Non-humiliation
- Truth & Honesty
- Trust & Honor:
- we each are Good People and we strive to be Good
- we each have accrued Wisdom through hard earned Experience and balance
our Beliefs with humility and authenticity
- we keep our Word; it can only be given Willingly, Knowingly &
Purposefully
- Namaste: I honor the Divine Wholeness within you
- Belonging: we are all part of The Whole - The Divine ALL
- Self-determination
- Transparency; Non-manipulation
- Privacy
- Confidentiality
- Personal space
- SAFETY; No harm/discomfort of any type, especially:
- physical
- mental
- emotional
- spiritual
- soulful
- double-safety: avoid/clarify ambiguity/threat as soon as it's realized
- Line item veto:
- only yes means yes
- no is never too late
- safety/equity are paramount
- Communication & Consideration:
- PRESENSE — being seen
- no mind reading nor projecting
- ask instead of assuming
- say what is meant
- patience & understanding: expression takes time, effort & introspection
- important topics are not avoided; they are addressed respectfully
- diligent use of the best information available
- Non-servitude:
- we are at-will participants
- we help each other willingly
- as needed, help is requested and appreciated
- responsibility may only be negotiated, honorably
- entitlement has no place, except to be respected
There are likely other aspects of respect not enumerated or captured here...
What do you think?
In the case of disrespectful behavior:
- help me realize: “ouch”
- I am not perfect - far from it
- and I want to be better
- and I likely either meant no disrespect (but failed)
or was under some form of stress or clouded judgement;
perhaps excited or confused or sad... not to be excused,
but realized, seen, remorsed, and remediated
~ Scott Godlew
|
|
|
|
A⌖Wholing Prayer
(see my dream: A Great Re-Wholing of All Beings)
work in progress...
Dear Great Mystical Whole:
That which is within and around us all,
and throughout the universe;
That which goes by many names
and is honored by many traditions;
That which is The Divine All
which holds a place for all Souls
to engage Spiritually with all Beings...
We seek a greater, truer, loving community
of all Beings.
We seek both collective and individual purpose
within that community.
We seek wholeness and integration of old wounds
into our expanding presence.
We are grateful
– regardless of losses that thwart us.
We are humble
– regardless of temptations that inflate us.
We are genuine [i.e., authentic]
– regardless of judgements that misrepresent us.
We are joyous
– regardless of pain and suffering that burden us.
We are forgiving
– regardless of offenses that wound us.
We are compassionate
– regardless of differences that divide us.
We are faithful
– regardless of doubts that dishearten us.
We are intentional [i.e., hopeful]
– regardless of obstacles that undermine us.
We are loving
– regardless of carelessness that baffles us.
We seek revelation that will
clarify our purpose
while relieving our burdens.
We seek comprehensive dignity, equanimity, and belonging
within the greater, truer, loving community
of all Beings.
We seek universal wholeness and wellness
of The Living System of The Earth,
and all that it comprises.
With gratitude for our sacred places within The Whole,
we pray...
Amen.
~ Whispers-with-ForestsΞ
|
|
Loving Community
Being In Love with Fellow Spiritual§ Explorers:
Perhaps Rumi sets an example for us
...even if we temper it somewhat ☺️
|
#love_of_soul
|
| " |
I think I fall in love a little bit
with anyone who shows me their
soul. This world is so guarded
and fearful. I appreciate rawness
so much. "
|
| ~ |
Emery Allen
(one
of many links)
|
|
|
#Alan_Watts_Falling_In_Love
|
| " |
Falling in love...
it's crazy*.
Falling.
You see?
We don't say 'rising into love.'
There is in it the idea of the fall.
And it goes back, as a matter of fact,
to extremely fundamental things.
That there is always a curious tie at some point
between the fall and the creation.
Taking this ghastly* risk
is the condition of there being life.
You see,
for all life is an act of faithF
and an act of gamble.
The moment you take a step,
you do so on an act of faithF
because you don't really know
that the floor's not going to give under your feet.
The moment you take a journey,
what an act of faithF.
The moment that you enter into any kind of
human undertaking in relationship,
what an act of faithF.
See,
you've given yourself up.
But this is the most powerful thing that can be done:
surrendersu.
See.
And love is an act of surrendersu to another person.
Total abandonment.
I give myself to you.
Take me.
Do anything you like with me.
See.
So, that's quite mad* because you see,
it's letting things get out of control... ”
|
| ~ |
Alan Watts
(hear and see more:
audio,
text)
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crazy, ghastly, surrendersu, mad, out of control...
vulnerability sacrificedsc by Ego
[also, consider
falling in love
in a broader context beyond "partnered" people...
also explore Thomas Merton]
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#hold_my_hand
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Will you...
Hold my hand for a little while?
I don’t need you to save me
No need for you to fix anything
No need for you to hold my pain
But will you simply hold my hand?
...
"
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Zoe Johansen (see more in Wanderings)
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work in progress...
While studying spiritual, faith, or world wisdom traditions, we may find we can explore
together with our own evolving spiritual ways of being and accompanying emotional and lived experiences that are emerging.
We may discover that we have more questions than answers.
We may find that we value the mutual struggle as we consider ideas beyond our pre-existing boundaries.
We may find that we have some degree of common purpose and intentions of inquiry.
What better way of exploring than with others who are in the same space of openness to ideas
that we are mutually or sparsely unfamiliar with.
These explorations need not be a rapid exchange...
perhaps some will prefer not to explore mutually at all...
or the time may not be right for some reason...
but this curiosity to hear the perspectives of fellow explorers will arise for some as it has for me and others I know...
When I become self-assured and trusting with the people I am with, my Shy Soul becomes more accessible and Ego is less defensive and less fearful about sharing. I am not saying that assuredness and trust must emerge without warrant and due diligence, but perhaps they will as we explore more and realize not all the answers are the same for everyone. When the Shy Soul is able to voice itself, and the Ego is able to realize that these sorts of things occur to others, then more and more mystical and compelling phenomena emerge for mutual awareness and consideration and discernment and experience...
In many ways, the Deep Listening traditions of Quaker origin spring into pertinence. Some derived methodologies include Circles of Trust from The Center for Courage and Renewal (Parker Palmer), and Soul Matters small group covenant circles of the UU Church (Rev. Scott Tayler: "What began as a bunch of seminary and preaching buddies supporting each other has organically become a means for deep congregational interdependence. Ultimately, for me, Soul Matters is about healing spiritual disconnection."). A valuable aspect of each methodology is the set of ground rules that each emphasizes regarding manners of presence, receiving matters of Soul's revelations, and what tact of response is welcome or constructive in these contexts (e.g. CCR Touchstones). There is much to be gained from practicing the ways of these traditions.
In a face to face conversation, we get more ability to dynamically “negotiate” what we are saying to be more fully understood, but we need assurance in a written exchange that we can refine what we have said based on questions for clarification that may return. So, we must offer each other that assurance. 💐 The dynamics of written refinement are stretched out over time, and we must be patient and not jump to conclusions, but seek mutual clarity with intention to fully understand. Again, ground rules about the welcome and constructive ways of dialog about Soul's revelations need be heeded.
Also, we may find that we will come to “be in love” with our fellow spiritual explorers — that we experience God’s love and our love for God “through” the inter-spiritual connections with our fellow explorers, and that we manifest and express that love in reality as we connect and explore. Revelation, discovery, articulation, refinement, and validation of our Spiritual connection to Soul, and of Inter-Spiritual common ground, are powerful binding phenomena, and amplify our experience of God. There may be joyful celebration in a way that Rumi might recognize – even if we temper the degree of physical intimacy that Rumi and other Sufi poets often describe. Even so, a hug, or a hand hold, or a finger touch, or a knuckle bump, or a compassionate gaze into another’s eyes, or just holding space and silence together, or a verbal or written statement of loving kindness can be powerful medicine. Sometimes it reaches right through a Zoom session or a chat sequence or an email exchange.
We must also be able to process darkness, depression, and unknowing... As we explore the depths of consciousness, we will certainly encounter shadows and wounds that we have carried for a lifetime, and often more than our own lifetime: generational and cultural. We will certainly encounter disappointment and frustration with the world as it is and as it seems it may never recover from. And, we will certainly encounter our inadequacy to know the future or even how our purpose can be fulfilled beyond our inter-spiritual awareness. We need the support and resilience of our loving communitylc and our own emerging understanding to struggle with these dark, depressing, and uncertain feelings. They are mostly emotional, as God's purpose, overall, is to be loving and receive loving from ALL. So, the struggle is to find the common ground of inter-spiritual energy that can be our salvation in this world – we need to collectively keep the faith.
For example... It has come to be an organized activity for some in our class
that we gather to hear the “stories” of other class members – we call this Storytime.
Different classmates have different strategies:
- Perhaps a chronological telling of pertinent experiences leading to seminary.
- Others have taken a “top ten” approach to things others likely wouldn’t know.
- There have been accounts of amazing experiences and synchronicities.
- There have been love letters.
Overall, there have been some intimate details and vulnerable facts revealed and woven together into
stories that give us a better glimpse into the lives of our classmates.
As we have continued to get together for these stories, 2 at a time, we have become very trusting about what gets said,
but more importantly, we realize each-others' humanity and soulful adventures on our life journeys.
I, personally, have found myself literally falling-in-love with my classmates.
So, Storytime is a more concentrated arrangement of these types of experiences,
but what I have realized is that we have been doing this throughout the entire series of
classes we have attended together over the course of our seminary journey.
We have been sharing our experiences and insights pertinent to the topics we are studying on our class weekends.
Over the course of the 2 years, most, if not all, of our classmates have chimed-in with unique and soulful experiences,
authentic questions originating from deep within them, and realizations that become insightful for all of us.
Some are more willing to share, while others are more hesitant...
Now, maybe you see... that an embodied loving experience could be taken as something too intimate, too vulnerable, or as a violation of other devotions without further clarification... but it is not meant as anything to threaten our marriages, nor partnerships, nor morality, nor personal space, nor intentions about how we manage our independence, nor to create inappropriate relationships between students nor others in the learning ecosystem... but just to say that this love is the authentic and sacred outcome of the experience, and reinforces the container for presence and intention for growth, and although spiritual and emotional energy and intimacy may show up as part of our struggle to expand our consciousness, it is not to be exploited as a grab for dependency, nor devotion, nor control, nor proselytizing, nor seduction, nor any unhealthy overture. It is a manner of investing in our interconnectedness and being in loving communitylc with a purpose to grow in understanding of our studies, and ourselves, and each other, and of God's love as personally meaningful to us individually – but also Inter-SpirituallyΛ.
Maybe it’s just not clear enough... or maybe it’s just not a way some are inclined to think about it... or maybe it even seems dangerous – it certainly requires vulnerability... So, it must be trusted that we will all stay centered on our own ways of being and stretching without breaking. 🙏 Namaste. We must intend that our ways are compatible, and if we need to adapt, then let us also realize what allows us to meet in a place of mutual respect, safety, assurance, and inter-spiritual energy and synergy to explore and discover together.
~ Scott Godlew ☺️
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Space & Time do not offer the only means of proximity...
work in progress...
As time monotonically moves along – seemingly dragging us away from experiences:
- Perhaps Relationships & Memories are the basis for on-going connection and a structural part of the meaning and purpose of experiences.
- Perhaps Relationships & Memories are the basis for more completely understanding our place
in The Whole and our place in any membership in which we find ourselves.
- Perhaps Relationships, Memories & Spirit are our portal to the Ancestral Realm.
- Perhaps Memories of Relationships and the recursive Relationships between Memories create an Inter-Spiritul matrix of their own...
- Perhaps Memories from the Relational Ancestral Realm become revealed
mystically::...
inter-spirituallyΛ...
mytho-poeticallymp...
- Perhaps our Souls and those of The Ancestral Realm help us realize metaphors that tell the Stories brought to life by Memories & their Relationships...
- Perhaps Spirits¤
and Inter-SpiritualΛ
Inter-Connectionsui
operate in this realm...
A Prayer for
Inter-SpiritualΛ
Proximity & Unity
May we have strong, enriching, enduring, grounding core connections
May we explore other...
* Doorways
* Passages
* Wormholes
* Pathways
...that reveal broader interconntectivity
May the shape of our Souls become more clearly intuitive
May serenity reveal our Ancestors in the Realm of Relationships & Memories
May Memories from the mytho-poetic Realm enrich our understanding of legacy
May our collective purpose bring us Unity
May The Whole rejoice in its Divine Wholeness
~ Scott Godlew ☺️
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Pyramid of Being:
Body, Mind, Spirit, Soul
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Imagine the structure of this 3-sided
pyramid –
a tetrahedron –
formed by connecting vertices at the ends of vectors emanating with perfect 4-way symmetry from the center,
named as follows, starting from lower-left and moving clockwise around the image:
- Body
-
My body is what I have come to know as the most physically concrete aspect of my presence within the world.
I do most of my doing with my body: affecting the physical environment in ways that I can see, touch, hear, smell,
and taste with my physical senses.
My body is the most simple way that my incarnation in the physical world is evident to others.
- Mind
-
My mind is the primary seat of my awareness – using my body as a tool for relating to the physical world
and the mental presence of others.
It has many realms of its own: consciousness and unconsciousness; ego, id, super-ego, repressed regions, etc.
Rational/logical, emotional, expressive, needs, desires, ... Much of what my mind becomes aware may originate from any
of the other vectors of this model, including external physical, mental, and spiritual entities with which I relate.
- Spirit
-
Spirit is a phenomenon and energy that allows for mystical and non-rational and non-physical ways of relating
and receiving awareness of other spiritual entities and phenomena.
This is often described as transcendent being on the transpersonal axis.
We can become more aware of spiritual presence in altered states of consciousness.
- Soul
-
My soul is my dedicated facet of The Whole which gives me purpose and identity, and ways of making meaning from
all of my ways of being.
This is often described as inscendent being on the transpersonal axis.
My ego often represses my soul and builds protective parts to cope with perceived danger and exploitation,
and wants to create a knowing presence, even if falsely constructed, that can hoard resources and recognition to satisfy needs
and desires. Wounds and shadows and all of the complicated parts constructed by my ego conspire to keep my soul away from
my whole being – ostensibly as protection, but more like avoidance of true purpose.
Most of the rest of the document deals with the Mind, Spirit, and Soul Vectors of Being.
Then, there are these potentially metaphorical qualities:
- All "vertices" (the 4 corners where the lines meet) are connected to all other vertices; they are determined by vectors emanating from a central point and arranged in a perfect 4-way symmetry; the lengths in this model are simply 100% of my unique whole being – relative to none other than myself.
- All "edges" (the 4 lines between the 4 vertices) are of equal length, regardless of the angle of view which might exaggerate one or another: the pyramid was constructed with 4 identical toothpicks.
- All "faces" (areas defined by edges) are of the same shape and size, again regardless of the angle of view which might be deceiving.
- The entire "inner space" (contained within the faces) is equally accessible to the whole structure, although some vertices and edges and faces are closer to some areas within the space.
- The "outer space" would be where aspects of others may journey, and edges/faces/spaces may extend from my pyramid out toward others.
- A limitation of this model is its three-dimensionality, or possibly 4 dimensions if you can imagine how vectors or connections might change over the course of time. It would be exciting to represent some manner of the 5th dimenion (or more), as discussed
elsewhere
in this document.
dsDissociation – split vertices
One can imagine a vertex "splitting" and moving into the inner-space of the full strength pyramid to form a smaller inner-space
with the other vertices. This is a case of an under-developed vector or becoming dissociated from a full strength vector:
a suffering of less-than-wholeness of body, mind, spirit, and/or soul.
It is not uncommon for the soul-vertex to be split to a substantial degree in today's society, and even the spirit-vertex.
It can become somewhat more problematic to cope within society if the mind-vertex becomes split,
and I would be very concerned if there was much of a body-vertex split. Of course, combinations of splits are
of varying dissociative complexity and loss of harmony. Sometimes, the strength of our other vectors help us
to regain strength in our sagging vector(s), or the strength of external spiritual energy and presence can help us
to return to our own greater strength of association. This metaphor would be fascinating to explore further...
For further perspective about the splits and dissociation... The range of full strength association to total dissociation
runs from the unsplit 100% strength of the vector to the center of the pyramid from which it emanates: the center of the pyramid represents zero
with respect to any of the vectors. If all of the vectors were spent down to total dissociation (yikes!),
their end vertices would all be at this center-point – collapsed into a singularity: a black hole in astrophysical terms.
See also:
Dissociation
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Miscellaneous bits of info and copy-able items:
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