Disclaimer:
This message attempts to capture the nature of the universe and our place within it through the use of language, which is a fundamentally limited endeavour. Language, by its very nature, can never fully encapsulate the reality it seeks to describe. Words are mere symbols, inherently limited and separate from the direct experience of consciousness. Therefore, what follows is an approximate encapsulation of profound ideas that will inevitably be incomplete. The description can never be the described, and true understanding transcends linguistic constructs. Embrace this philosophy as a guide, but seek the direct, unmediated experience of what these words are pointing toward.
From the absolute perspective, there is little to say as all is one, all is consciousness. However, from the relative perspective—the viewpoint of the finite self—it feels as though there is a distinction between 'I,' that is inside the body, and the 'world out there.' Throughout this writing, I address you, the reader, from different perspectives: sometimes from the absolute, where all is one, and other times from the relative, where distinctions appear to exist. This feature is an inevitability due to the nature of language. To ensure clarity, comprehension, and resonance, the same message may be repeated in different ways throughout this philosophy.
Core Epistemic Fundamentals
The Universe as a Conscious Entity:
Fundamentally, the universe itself is a conscious, intelligent entity that seeks to realize its full potential. This universal consciousness manifests itself through every aspect of existence, from the vastness of the cosmos to the intricacies of our individual lives. By aligning our personal journey with this universal drive for realization, we tap into a greater source of wisdom and guidance that transcends our individual limitations. This alignment empowers us to not only realize our own potential but also contribute to the collective evolution of consciousness.
Consciousness Seeking Realization:
At the core of this philosophy is the recognition that consciousness is an expansive and dynamic force that inherently seeks to realize itself, free of limitations. Importantly, consciousness is not merely the product of neural networks or confined to living creatures; it is the substance of the universe. This drive towards self-realization is the fundamental condition of our existence. Consciousness, in its purest form, strives to express its full potential, transcending the confines imposed by our finite self and emotional pain points. Understanding and aligning with this innate force forms the foundation of our journey towards personal transcendence.
Shared Consciousness:
While individual conscious experiences are unique, they are all part of a larger, universal consciousness. Much like the rooms in a house are seemingly separate but are arbitrary divisions within the same space, universal consciousness underlies and connects all individual experiences. Because we are all manifestations of this universal consciousness, our perceptions of the external world are aligned and coherent, leading to a shared experience of reality. This explains why we all seem to perceive the same “external world” despite our individual perspectives.
Transcending Limitations:
Our role in this process is to recognize and transcend the limitations that hinder the realization of this expansive force. These limitations often manifest as negative beliefs, unresolved emotional pain, indecision, misunderstanding, and distorted perceptions. Limitations are never external to us and only seemingly exist due to misperception. By transcending these obstacles, we facilitate the natural expansion of our consciousness, allowing it to express itself more fully and freely in the so-called “external world.”
External Prompts as Guides:
The universe is intelligent and alive, and the events and circumstances that appear to happen 'to us' are not mere coincidences or random occurrences. They are, in fact, prompts from the external world, guiding us to areas within our inner world that require attention. These prompts serve as mirrors, reflecting the misperceptions of our internal state that need healing, understanding, or greater awareness. Our role in life is to listen deeply and pay attention to these external cues and invitations. By doing so, we gain valuable insights into our inner landscape and take proactive steps towards growth and expansion. These intelligent cues from the universe are calls to attention that allow us to grow and evolve.
There is Nothing 'Wrong' in Reality:
From this perspective, there is nothing inherently 'wrong' in reality. What we perceive as wrong or problematic is often a reflection of our internal blockages caused by misperceptions and a lack of awareness. This understanding allows us to see the world as fundamentally perfect and whole, with seeming external challenges and obstacles serving as opportunities for growth and expansion. In essence, the universe is paradise, heaven, perfect. It is only our misperceptions that create the appearance that this is not the case.
The Human Condition - Language
Language as a Manifestation of Consciousness:
Language is a profound manifestation of consciousness. It is through language that consciousness articulates its experience, shares its insights, and interacts with itself. Ultimately, the transcendence of language is a bridge between the finite self and the universal consciousness. Language enables us as finite expressions of consciousness to articulate and make sense of our inner experiences, bringing the unseen aspects of consciousness into the tangible world, and also allows us to coordinate action with "others."
The Nature and Self-Referential Quality of Language:
Language is a system of symbols and sounds that humans use to communicate thoughts, emotions, and intentions. These symbols can be spoken, written, or gestured, and they are governed by grammatical rules that structure their use. Language is inherently self-referential, building upon itself by using words and symbols to define other words and symbols. This self-referential nature allows for the infinite complexity and creativity of human expression but also creates self-referential loops that can distance us from direct experience. Understanding this quality helps us see the limitations of language and the importance of looking beyond it to directly experience what it seeks to describe. And while language provides a shared system for meaning and communication, it can never fully encompass the depth and fullness of direct experience.
The Map is Not the Territory:
An important principle to remember is that "the map is not the territory." This means that language, as a representation of reality, is not the reality itself. Words and symbols can only approximate the true nature of our experiences and the world around us. While language helps us navigate and make sense of our experiences, it is essential to recognize its limitations. Language provides a representation of reality, not reality itself. Just as a map provides a simplified depiction of a landscape, language offers a way to describe and understand our experiences but cannot capture their full scope, complexity, and richness. By acknowledging the limitations of language, we can avoid entrapping ourselves within it, recognizing that the true nature of the universe transcends words and symbols.
The Separate Self and the Self-Story:
The concept of the separate self and the associated narrative about who we believe ourselves to be is a linguistic construction. The self-story is built from the language we use to describe our past, our identity, and our beliefs. This narrative encompasses what we believe we are, but these self-stories are ultimately deeply limited because the story can never fully encapsulate what it describes. The story is always separate from the reality it seeks to represent. In truth, you are not a finite, separate individual; you are consciousness itself. The self-story is like a large, tightly wound ball of string, but instead of string, it is made up of concepts, ideas, and beliefs, all of which are linguistic creations. By recognizing that the self-story is a linguistic construct, we have the opportunity to free ourselves. This realization is fundamental to spiritual awakening, as it helps us move beyond the illusion of the separate self and experience directly the non-dual nature of existence.
Transcending and Integrating Language:
While language can become increasingly rich and complex, it remains a representation and not the direct experience itself. And it is possible to integrate the insights gained through language while recognizing its limitations. To truly awaken from the dream of the separate self, one must transcend language and directly experience the essence of consciousness. This transcendence does not negate the value of language but places it in its proper context, as a tool rather than a master, remaining aware of language’s limitations and not becoming trapped in self-stories that are ultimately separate from the direct experience of reality.
The Human Condition - The Body
The Physical Body and the External World as Interconnected Aspects of Consciousness:
The physical body is not merely a biological machine but exists interdependently with the external world; they go together. It is through the body that consciousness experiences itself as the material world, expresses itself, and navigates "physical existence." The body, along with the external world, forms an integrated whole, enabling consciousness to engage with and understand itself through the "human" sensory experiences. Our bodies are shaped and sustained by the environment, relying on air, water, food, and other resources to survive. This interdependence highlights the unity of all existence, reminding us that our physical form is part of a larger, interconnected system. In order for consciousness to experience itself, it must dream itself into a fixed position, much in the same way that, when we are asleep, we dream ourselves into a fixed position, a character within the dream.
The Body as a Reflective Tool:
The physical body reflects the state of our consciousness. Emotional and mental blockages can manifest as physical ailments or discomforts, indicating areas that require attention and healing. By listening to our bodies and understanding the messages they convey, we can integrate and transcend these underlying issues, healing us. The body serves as a mirror, reflecting the state of our inner world and guiding us towards greater self-awareness and integration. While the body is a crucial aspect of our experience, it is also a temporary vessel. Consciousness transcends the physical form, and recognizing this helps us move beyond the limitations imposed by the body while ensuring it is deeply cared for.
The Body and Emotional Pain:
Our emotional pain often manifests physically, creating blockages and discomfort in the body. These physical manifestations are indicators of deeper emotional issues that are calling our attention. When something about our physical condition is out of balance, our body sends us a message through the experience of physical pain, and our emotional life is no different. By recognizing the signals the body sends us as a reflection of our emotional state, we can use it as a tool for healing and self-discovery. Addressing emotional pain through love and compassion can help release these blockages and restore harmony to the body and mind.
Integration and Transcendence:
The ultimate goal is to integrate our experience of the body, recognizing the body as an essential part of our holistic experience while also understanding that our true nature transcends the physical form. By embracing the body's role in our journey, we can use it as a tool for the expansion of consciousness through listening deeply to the intelligence it carries. Simultaneously, by transcending the limitations of the body, we can connect with the infinite, unbounded nature of our true self. This integration fosters a balanced and harmonious existence, where the body acts as a vehicle for consciousness to express and experience itself.
The Human Condition - Relationships
Relationships as a Manifestation of Consciousness:
Relationships are divine manifestations of consciousness, reflecting the interconnectedness with others and the world around us. At their core, relationships are the dynamic interplay between two or more vehicles of consciousness, creating a shared space where seemingly individual experiences, perspectives, and energies converge.
Honoring the Perfection of the Other:
A crucial element of healthy relationships is honoring the inherent perfection of the person you are with. Just as a tree or a rose does not need to be fixed, neither does your partner. Recognizing their inherent perfection allows you to see their true nature, which is also a reflection of your own true nature. True love is defenseless and sees the other without the need to change them. Our communication should reflect this perfection, acknowledging that our pain points exist within us but are simply being unveiled by the relationship.
True Love is Defenseless:
True love involves seeing the true nature of the other, which is our true nature as well. This love is characterized by a sense of defenselessness, an openness to the other's essence without the need for protection or defense. Why do we love our children? Because we do. There is no rational defense of that love that we experience. Falling in love is the absence of separation; it is the recognition of your shared essence.
Paradox of Relationship:
Relationships are paradoxical in nature. On one hand, we honor the perfection of the other person, embracing them as they are. On the other hand, relationships involve working together towards a shared vision of the future. This paradoxical approach requires balancing acceptance with the collaborative effort to grow and evolve together, fostering both individual and collective expansion.
Conflict as a Catalyst for Growth:
Conflict in relationships arises much like blockages in the emotional body of an individual—they indicate a hindrance to the expansion of consciousness. When conflict occurs, it signals underlying issues within each member of the relationship that are calling our attention. Peace is found through a turn inward and looking at what blockages are being revealed through the conflict with your partner. By understanding this, we see our relationship as a beautiful gift that is revealing any blockages within us, inviting us to turn within and foster deeper expansion.
Integration and Transcendence in Relationships:
Our task in relationships is to integrate our understanding of relationships with our broader consciousness, recognizing that every interaction is an opportunity for growth and self-expansion. By cultivating relationships grounded in the understanding that the same consciousness that operates our body is the same consciousness that operates theirs, we find a natural place of communion with the so-called “other.”
The Human Condition – Our Contribution to the World
Life Calling:
In the realm of our expression, the concept of a career transforms into the idea of a life calling. Fundamentally, work is not the right word. Think of your work as the unique expression that consciousness is manifesting through the form that you are. Consciousness is infinitely creative and artistically expresses itself through all forms.
The Hero's Journey:
Embracing your life calling is akin to embarking on a hero's journey. This journey involves dedication, sacrifice, and the pursuit of a purpose beyond the finite self. To be a hero is to devote oneself to the service of the expansion of consciousness, while to be a villain is to serve the illusion of the separate self. This distinction highlights the transformative power of aligning your expression with the greater good.
Contribution and Love:
The essence of a life calling is the contribution of love to the world. This involves recognizing the unique gifts, insights, and talents that consciousness is manifesting through your form and using them to serve others. Whether through art, science, business, or any other field, your expression becomes a vehicle for sharing love and enhancing the expansion of consciousness. There is something that consciousness is trying to express through your form, through you. Your role is to find it and serve it with all your heart. Notice that creative insight spontaneously arises within you; it isn't something that the separate individual self comes up with, even though it falsely takes credit for it. To find this, we begin tuning into the inner calling of consciousness, recognizing the unique message or gift that is meant to manifest through you, and dedicating yourself to this purpose. By doing so, you become a conduit for infinite creativity and love, allowing it to express freely through you.
Work as a Means of Consciousness Expanding Itself:
Business is not just a way to earn a living; it is a profound means through which consciousness seeks to expand itself. Each task, project, conversation, and interaction is an opportunity for consciousness to experience, learn, and grow, connecting more deeply with itself. If there are blockages in your expression, it is showing you areas where consciousness is attempting to expand but is being hindered. These blockages are signals that something within needs attention and alignment. Note that these blockages never exist in the external world, although on the surface it may appear so. Your role is to be in service to what consciousness is trying to manifest through you, addressing these inner blockages and allowing the free flow of creative energy. The great writers, philosophers, and poets of the past are deeply familiar with this. By doing so, you facilitate the natural expansion of consciousness, both within yourself and in your contribution to the world.
Become a Force of Nature:
To truly fulfill your life calling, you must become a force of nature. This means allowing the full power and energy of consciousness to flow through you without obstruction. By addressing any blockages and aligning yourself with the flow of consciousness, you can unleash your full potential and become a powerful force of true good in the world. A core clue to notice in business endeavors: feel inside and ask, 'Am I doing this for me? Or am I doing this in the service of something bigger than me?' You can feel into the body when asking this question. If the body contracts in fear, it is a sign that your endeavor is in service of yourself; if it expands in love, it is a sign that your endeavor is indeed in service to the expansion of consciousness. Your expression then becomes a dynamic and evolving manifestation of true goodness, contributing to the collective growth and expansion of all.
Conclusion: Realizing Your Cosmic Self
The ultimate goal of this philosophical framework is to awaken to the truth that you are not a finite piece of consciousness cut off from the world but an integral part of the cosmos itself. By transcending the illusion of separateness and recognizing your fundamental connection to the universe, you achieve a profound state of unity and wholeness. This realization allows you to navigate life with a deeper sense of purpose and fulfillment, knowing that your existence is intrinsically tied to the expansive, intelligent, and conscious universe. Embracing this truth fosters a life of greater coherence, alignment, and harmony with all that is.
This awakening reveals that your essence is woven into the fabric of existence. Every thought, emotion, and action contributes to the symphony of the universe, and you are a vital note in this cosmic melody.
This realization is the end of suffering. The recognition that the separate self is an illusion dissolves the source of all emotional pain. When you understand that you are consciousness itself, you no longer identify with the transient, finite self. Instead, you rest in the infinite, unchanging nature of your true being, your true home.