My own path is probably too convoluted and particular to my own conditioning to be of much use to anybody, but lately I've been recommending Angelo Dillulo, who in my opinion speaks about this stuff with more lucidity than anyone in the history of the English-speaking world. He's got a very helpful YouTube page with playlists broken up into categories so they can be useful to anyone at whatever stage of awakening they're at: https://www.youtube.com/@SimplyAlwaysAwake/playlists
Beautiful your encouragement to 'understand our inner world' combined with the reminder that we are not separate (beings).
Particularly helpful to overcome our trained sense of being separate is the experience of participation in a group setting of the practice of 'systemic family constellations'.
Core element of this practice is to represent another human being without knowing anything about that one, who frequently is already long dead. In a channeling kind of way we experience the energy of the one represented which more often than not leads to the resolution of the issue someone has brought to the group, asking for its closure.
No doubt we are connected not only to the ones alive but just as much to our dead ancestors, some of whom keep 'sending' the energy of their unresolved issues which are picked up by a descendant , of course completely unconscious, giving this descendant inexplicable troubles.
Experiencing and witnessing these processes is a most promising way of overcoming the shackles of our customary sense of being separate and to better understand our inner world.
Look into the work of former NASA physicist and consciousness researcher Tom Campbell (who worked with Robert Monroe back in the 1970s).
Caitlin's post is VERY congruent with his work and he gives a very logical derivation of our conscious experience here that is a much needed perspective to keep one's sanity!
He also has thousands of hours of videos on his YouTube channel, and other resources that can be found from his new website.
People use all kinds of narratives (and self-talk) to change the way they feel (including their perceptions about themselves and the outer world). I understand your narratives, Caitlin, and am happy for you. Unfortunately, I have not yet come across a narrative convincing enough that does for me what "your narrative" does for you.
Also, I think our modern society has placed too much emphasis on "happiness", "positive psychology", etc. as end pursuits instead of "experiences on a purposeful journey". I don't seek/chase happiness - if it comes at times (as it invariably does for all of us) then that's good - if not, that is also acceptable. There are many more "emotions" that I feel are just as important as happiness.
I DO APPRECIATE and am grateful for all your support and encouragement (both intellectually and emotionally) in this journey that we all share in some way (sometimes even without knowing it).
Nothing to do with narratives or self-talk. We're discussing an actual shift in perception here. A radical shift in one's relationship with thought and way of functioning.
>>"Nothing to do with narratives or self-talk. We're discussing an actual shift in perception here."
I disagree with your statement above. Let me explain:
All perceptions are based (partly) on belief systems. Narratives influence belief systems (and conversely belief systems influence narratives). Eg. perceptions about events will be colored on your beliefs about "God", "spirituality", "religion", "science", etc. Narratives (about past history, observed reality, scientific theories, etc.) will thus influence belief systems and hence perceptions of the real world (i.e. how one perceives events).
Hence, what you "perceive" (actual shift in perception here) comes about (i.e. is influenced) through changes in belief systems and the narratives that feed into them.
Your perceptions about "the form of spirituality that you believe in" is ONE of SEVERAL (thousands?) of narratives of spirituality. People use different belief systems (and rationalizations) to come to terms with "human existence" and "the human condition".
Your narratives (over a lifetime of experiences, knowledge of history, etc.) leads you to believe in the "perceptions" put forth by the "particular spirituality" espoused by figures like "Angelo Dillulo" to make you feel a certain way (happy, peaceful, etc.).
It doesn't matter what someone ELSE thinks about YOUR perceptions. Your perceptions are true to you regardless of anything else. And narratives (and different kinds of self-talk) are different strategies of CHANGING those perceptions.
So, yes - it has EVERYTHING to do with narratives, belief systems, etc. because all these factors affect "one's relationship with thought and way of functioning".
Regardless, I respect your opinions and thoughts (even if I process things differently), as I would be a different person had I not come across your work - and for that, I will be eternally grateful to you (in my own way) and hope that you are always able to find the strength to continue (with whatever tools - like particular spiritual beliefs - that enable you to do so).
Nah. This is the same as saying going from sleep to waking is a narrative, or like saying a DMT trip is a narrative. I'm talking about a very real change here, like puberty. You can disagree if you want to, but what you're talking about is not what I'm talking about.
>>"This is the same as saying going from sleep to waking is a narrative"
No it's not. That's an incorrect analogy. Those processes you describe are "physical, material processes". The thinking that happens "in the mind" comes about differently.
>>"I'm talking about a very real change here"
I'm not arguing (or contesting) the "real change". Real change can happen in multiple ways - one of which is "your change in perception".
What I'm saying is that "real change" is brought about by "narratives, belief systems" and so many other factors. Your "real change in perception" (and consequently change in ways of thinking) is based on those factors (of which your spirituality beliefs is but one).
Narratives are made up of thoughts. There is something beyond thought. Some call it pure awareness or god consciousness… there are no words that adequately describe it because it precedes thoughts. It’s a shift in dimensions. It’s a state of consciousness that is above the pairs of opposites. Again, very hard to discuss as it’s more to be experienced.
Narratives are a LOT MORE than thoughts. Narratives consist of facts, myths, stories, science, beliefs, concrete evidence, and SO MUCH MORE.
All "consciousness" is formed within the mind (i.e. brain). Everything you perceive (ever) is a confluence of electro-chemical reactions amongst the neurons of your brain (with feedback from various other body systems).
Without the brain, the mind does not exist. Everything you experience (including what you think about those experiences) comes from these "complex processes" going on in your brain and body.
The "soul" is a representation/manifestation of such processes. (Yes, I know that spiritual and religious types will argue about the soul existing apart from the mind/body). Until there is concrete, verifiable evidence for such a hypothesis (of the soul existing apart from the mind/body), I will remain unconvinced of such theories (which are non-falsifiable and hence not provable OR disprovable).
I understand where you’re coming from but I guess I am one of those spiritual types who have gathered concrete verifiable evidence for myself that there is something far beyond ‘me’ that exists.
>>"have gathered concrete verifiable evidence for myself"
That's NOT how "concrete, verifiable evidence" works. It doesn't just work for "some" people. It works for EVERYONE (i.e. universal laws of nature like in physics, etc.).
THAT is what SCIENCE (and the scientific methodologies) are all about. There are things that CANNOT be verified by science (eg. the existence of GOD, or spiritual beliefs, etc.). Hence, one can come up with ANY spiritual/religious beliefs whatsoever (and can justify them in any way) since there is no way to prove/disprove such beliefs.
So, it's really moot in arguing about the "TRUTH" of any such beliefs, as there exists no known process that is able to determine it conclusively as so (i.e. if you perceive it to be true - as you do - then it's true for you, otherwise it's not true for you).
Chang, my understanding on the article is totally different to yours (I think). Maybe use the word "contentment" instead of "happiness" and see if that makes a difference or maybe I misinterpreted the article. The other thing is that a so called "positive psychology" or maybe just understanding the truth that the World is a stage and we are the audience, run by mad men; eliminates the fear and confusion we may of had (fear and confusion are the most powerful used against us. Just my view.
Living should be happy, and is when we remember who we are, where we are, and what we are. Hang on to that and life remains magnificent regardless, whoever happens to be in charge at the moment..great topic, good article, IMO.
I have been so enraged at the crimes the US, Israel and their bootlickers that it's often all consuming. Not only in Palestine, but the millions dying, starving, tortured, raped, murdered in many others countries because of the same arrogant criminals, all threading back to empire. So it may come as a surprise that I find relief and comfort calm and serenity listening to reports about China. Their social democracy works exactly as it should with steady improvement for all people, all the time. Nothing in this abhorant place improves daily for the people. The opposite of China is planned by the US government, (Dems or Repubs, doesn't matter), and the success of the dystopia plan moves steadily forward every day.
As always, Caitlin, so well written and expressed. However, hmmm -- for me ...
I extracted this along the way: "I am frequently hurt and heartbroken by the awful things I see happening in places like Gaza, but the hurt and the heartbreak occurs in the context of something much larger which is always at peace." Hmmm. If you have mastered that conundrum, you have climbed an improbably steep hill, and you surely have stronger legs and stamina and will than I can believe I'll ever be able to claim credit for. Yes, "context" is always important, but...hmmm...the "context" for me must be every human being of Gaza, and his or her potential, snuffed by the Colonial Zionists. I'll never be "at peace" unless -- unlikely -- truth and transparent justice and accountability are at the top of that hill.
Thank you, Caitlin. This is very helpful and important as people are getting ill from stress all around us. And we can’t help Palestinians if we’re at home with migraines. 🩷🥰
I recommend the Daily Meditations from the Center for Action and Contemplation. You can enjoy a short meditative thought in your email box once a day or read them online. I often find great insights that really help me make sense of the "outer world" as my "inner world" grows in strength. https://cac.org/daily-meditations/
You are the ocean in a drop of water. Thank you for your insights into the condition of life. There is a power that governments cannot control and stop. Using the word power feels wrong for all its misuses. They who rule us will never under stand the over all spirit. One day their labels and their commands will not be understood and the bro there hood of whu man ity will over come.
Fine expressions on the paradoxes of living this life that enshroud each of us. Good of you to make this a personal statement that has meant so much and touched many who read your work. Good job.
I took 7 years to decide to go on a 10 day silent Vipassana meditation retreat. While it was difficult at times and sometimes I thought I must be mad for doing this, at the end of that 10 days I was in a place completely free of anxiety. I had not known that was even possible. I still meditate and it still helps me to reduce my anxiety. Vipassana is free. They ask for donations or that you contribute time. I have never experienced any pushing to do anything. You get fed vegetarian food and have a comfortable bed to sleep in. You get up very early and meditate for about 10 hours a day, although you can go outside and walk around if you want. I didn't really like the recordings we had to listen to every night, but I used the meditation technique we were taught to set that aside.
Dear Caitlin, I reverse your statement that “all beings are ultimately innocent” with the following: “all adult human beings have been and are guilty”. They have accepted being dominated by small, well-organized groups. They have delegated to these groups the power to decide for them and against them. They have allowed wars, massacres, barbarity of every kind, like no other living species has ever done. They have believed in the lies and deception of the media, governments, false scientists, priests and philosophers sold to power. They have dedicated their extra time to pleasure, superfluous consumption and useless discussions. Every human being considers himself at the center of the world but then depends on those who control the world and create their own subordination. And we must not confuse what we are with what we could be if only we wanted it. But, we do not want it. Out of ignorance and/or fear and/or resignation and/or selfishness and/or envy. If a social pyramid has formed with small dominant groups and many subordinate individuals, it is because the vast majority of people are atomized, disunited, isolated, alone. To change this condition, we cannot start from what could be but from what is, to fight together to get to how it could be.
Whether you call it inner work, or simply to learn to more fully embrace the reality of nature, and life, we must take action where we can. One thing we cannot do it to allow Israel to escape the legal consequences of their war crimes. The Hind Rajab Foundation has, among other things, filed a case with the ICC against 1,000 Israeli soldiers for war crimes in Gaza.
They have taken further steps in recent days, and vacations are becoming a lot more difficult for IDF soldiers, worldwide. The Hind Rajab Foundation can use our help. Please join me in making a contribution.
You might find meaningful to watch the recent interviews that Glenn Greenwald did on his Rumble platform, and Ali Abunimah of the Electronic Intifada, did with the head of this organisation, Dyad Abou Jahjah. It was very informative.
Here's a petition calling for accountability for the arrest of Ali Abunimah in Switzerland:
Thanks for a very refreshing and unique take on the world of today.
It would be very timely and helpful to dig deeper into the minds of Palestinians whose suffering has affected us all. How are they coping with their reality? I am interested especially in trying to understand the children of Gaza. What will be their future like? What has and continues to be the role of women of Gaza? How are men coping with the inability to protect their families?
Just a thought or ‘ramblings’ of someone deeply disturbed by all this. Thanks.
A much needed read today! I will really appreciate if you can possibly share some resources that helped you get to this point! Thank you!
My own path is probably too convoluted and particular to my own conditioning to be of much use to anybody, but lately I've been recommending Angelo Dillulo, who in my opinion speaks about this stuff with more lucidity than anyone in the history of the English-speaking world. He's got a very helpful YouTube page with playlists broken up into categories so they can be useful to anyone at whatever stage of awakening they're at: https://www.youtube.com/@SimplyAlwaysAwake/playlists
Beautiful your encouragement to 'understand our inner world' combined with the reminder that we are not separate (beings).
Particularly helpful to overcome our trained sense of being separate is the experience of participation in a group setting of the practice of 'systemic family constellations'.
Core element of this practice is to represent another human being without knowing anything about that one, who frequently is already long dead. In a channeling kind of way we experience the energy of the one represented which more often than not leads to the resolution of the issue someone has brought to the group, asking for its closure.
No doubt we are connected not only to the ones alive but just as much to our dead ancestors, some of whom keep 'sending' the energy of their unresolved issues which are picked up by a descendant , of course completely unconscious, giving this descendant inexplicable troubles.
Experiencing and witnessing these processes is a most promising way of overcoming the shackles of our customary sense of being separate and to better understand our inner world.
I love you too. : )
Look into the work of former NASA physicist and consciousness researcher Tom Campbell (who worked with Robert Monroe back in the 1970s).
Caitlin's post is VERY congruent with his work and he gives a very logical derivation of our conscious experience here that is a much needed perspective to keep one's sanity!
He also has thousands of hours of videos on his YouTube channel, and other resources that can be found from his new website.
Blessings on your path.
www.my-big-toe.com
People use all kinds of narratives (and self-talk) to change the way they feel (including their perceptions about themselves and the outer world). I understand your narratives, Caitlin, and am happy for you. Unfortunately, I have not yet come across a narrative convincing enough that does for me what "your narrative" does for you.
Also, I think our modern society has placed too much emphasis on "happiness", "positive psychology", etc. as end pursuits instead of "experiences on a purposeful journey". I don't seek/chase happiness - if it comes at times (as it invariably does for all of us) then that's good - if not, that is also acceptable. There are many more "emotions" that I feel are just as important as happiness.
I DO APPRECIATE and am grateful for all your support and encouragement (both intellectually and emotionally) in this journey that we all share in some way (sometimes even without knowing it).
Thank you and much love and solidarity!
Nothing to do with narratives or self-talk. We're discussing an actual shift in perception here. A radical shift in one's relationship with thought and way of functioning.
>>"Nothing to do with narratives or self-talk. We're discussing an actual shift in perception here."
I disagree with your statement above. Let me explain:
All perceptions are based (partly) on belief systems. Narratives influence belief systems (and conversely belief systems influence narratives). Eg. perceptions about events will be colored on your beliefs about "God", "spirituality", "religion", "science", etc. Narratives (about past history, observed reality, scientific theories, etc.) will thus influence belief systems and hence perceptions of the real world (i.e. how one perceives events).
Hence, what you "perceive" (actual shift in perception here) comes about (i.e. is influenced) through changes in belief systems and the narratives that feed into them.
Your perceptions about "the form of spirituality that you believe in" is ONE of SEVERAL (thousands?) of narratives of spirituality. People use different belief systems (and rationalizations) to come to terms with "human existence" and "the human condition".
Your narratives (over a lifetime of experiences, knowledge of history, etc.) leads you to believe in the "perceptions" put forth by the "particular spirituality" espoused by figures like "Angelo Dillulo" to make you feel a certain way (happy, peaceful, etc.).
It doesn't matter what someone ELSE thinks about YOUR perceptions. Your perceptions are true to you regardless of anything else. And narratives (and different kinds of self-talk) are different strategies of CHANGING those perceptions.
So, yes - it has EVERYTHING to do with narratives, belief systems, etc. because all these factors affect "one's relationship with thought and way of functioning".
Regardless, I respect your opinions and thoughts (even if I process things differently), as I would be a different person had I not come across your work - and for that, I will be eternally grateful to you (in my own way) and hope that you are always able to find the strength to continue (with whatever tools - like particular spiritual beliefs - that enable you to do so).
Nah. This is the same as saying going from sleep to waking is a narrative, or like saying a DMT trip is a narrative. I'm talking about a very real change here, like puberty. You can disagree if you want to, but what you're talking about is not what I'm talking about.
>>"This is the same as saying going from sleep to waking is a narrative"
No it's not. That's an incorrect analogy. Those processes you describe are "physical, material processes". The thinking that happens "in the mind" comes about differently.
>>"I'm talking about a very real change here"
I'm not arguing (or contesting) the "real change". Real change can happen in multiple ways - one of which is "your change in perception".
What I'm saying is that "real change" is brought about by "narratives, belief systems" and so many other factors. Your "real change in perception" (and consequently change in ways of thinking) is based on those factors (of which your spirituality beliefs is but one).
Narratives are made up of thoughts. There is something beyond thought. Some call it pure awareness or god consciousness… there are no words that adequately describe it because it precedes thoughts. It’s a shift in dimensions. It’s a state of consciousness that is above the pairs of opposites. Again, very hard to discuss as it’s more to be experienced.
>>"Narratives are made up of thoughts."
Narratives are a LOT MORE than thoughts. Narratives consist of facts, myths, stories, science, beliefs, concrete evidence, and SO MUCH MORE.
All "consciousness" is formed within the mind (i.e. brain). Everything you perceive (ever) is a confluence of electro-chemical reactions amongst the neurons of your brain (with feedback from various other body systems).
Without the brain, the mind does not exist. Everything you experience (including what you think about those experiences) comes from these "complex processes" going on in your brain and body.
The "soul" is a representation/manifestation of such processes. (Yes, I know that spiritual and religious types will argue about the soul existing apart from the mind/body). Until there is concrete, verifiable evidence for such a hypothesis (of the soul existing apart from the mind/body), I will remain unconvinced of such theories (which are non-falsifiable and hence not provable OR disprovable).
I understand where you’re coming from but I guess I am one of those spiritual types who have gathered concrete verifiable evidence for myself that there is something far beyond ‘me’ that exists.
>>"have gathered concrete verifiable evidence for myself"
That's NOT how "concrete, verifiable evidence" works. It doesn't just work for "some" people. It works for EVERYONE (i.e. universal laws of nature like in physics, etc.).
THAT is what SCIENCE (and the scientific methodologies) are all about. There are things that CANNOT be verified by science (eg. the existence of GOD, or spiritual beliefs, etc.). Hence, one can come up with ANY spiritual/religious beliefs whatsoever (and can justify them in any way) since there is no way to prove/disprove such beliefs.
So, it's really moot in arguing about the "TRUTH" of any such beliefs, as there exists no known process that is able to determine it conclusively as so (i.e. if you perceive it to be true - as you do - then it's true for you, otherwise it's not true for you).
Chang, my understanding on the article is totally different to yours (I think). Maybe use the word "contentment" instead of "happiness" and see if that makes a difference or maybe I misinterpreted the article. The other thing is that a so called "positive psychology" or maybe just understanding the truth that the World is a stage and we are the audience, run by mad men; eliminates the fear and confusion we may of had (fear and confusion are the most powerful used against us. Just my view.
Living should be happy, and is when we remember who we are, where we are, and what we are. Hang on to that and life remains magnificent regardless, whoever happens to be in charge at the moment..great topic, good article, IMO.
I have been so enraged at the crimes the US, Israel and their bootlickers that it's often all consuming. Not only in Palestine, but the millions dying, starving, tortured, raped, murdered in many others countries because of the same arrogant criminals, all threading back to empire. So it may come as a surprise that I find relief and comfort calm and serenity listening to reports about China. Their social democracy works exactly as it should with steady improvement for all people, all the time. Nothing in this abhorant place improves daily for the people. The opposite of China is planned by the US government, (Dems or Repubs, doesn't matter), and the success of the dystopia plan moves steadily forward every day.
Rob Roy, I do agree. The promise of China brings hope.
As always, Caitlin, so well written and expressed. However, hmmm -- for me ...
I extracted this along the way: "I am frequently hurt and heartbroken by the awful things I see happening in places like Gaza, but the hurt and the heartbreak occurs in the context of something much larger which is always at peace." Hmmm. If you have mastered that conundrum, you have climbed an improbably steep hill, and you surely have stronger legs and stamina and will than I can believe I'll ever be able to claim credit for. Yes, "context" is always important, but...hmmm...the "context" for me must be every human being of Gaza, and his or her potential, snuffed by the Colonial Zionists. I'll never be "at peace" unless -- unlikely -- truth and transparent justice and accountability are at the top of that hill.
Robert, I feel exactly the same.
My only relief comes in the form of physical distraction: in my case, gardening or drawing/ painting.
I need another horse.
Thank you, Caitlin. This is very helpful and important as people are getting ill from stress all around us. And we can’t help Palestinians if we’re at home with migraines. 🩷🥰
I recommend the Daily Meditations from the Center for Action and Contemplation. You can enjoy a short meditative thought in your email box once a day or read them online. I often find great insights that really help me make sense of the "outer world" as my "inner world" grows in strength. https://cac.org/daily-meditations/
You are the ocean in a drop of water. Thank you for your insights into the condition of life. There is a power that governments cannot control and stop. Using the word power feels wrong for all its misuses. They who rule us will never under stand the over all spirit. One day their labels and their commands will not be understood and the bro there hood of whu man ity will over come.
Fine expressions on the paradoxes of living this life that enshroud each of us. Good of you to make this a personal statement that has meant so much and touched many who read your work. Good job.
🙏 Thank you Caitlin.
For a while there my mind was straying from the cool secluded place under a tree beside the river. You pulled me back.
I took 7 years to decide to go on a 10 day silent Vipassana meditation retreat. While it was difficult at times and sometimes I thought I must be mad for doing this, at the end of that 10 days I was in a place completely free of anxiety. I had not known that was even possible. I still meditate and it still helps me to reduce my anxiety. Vipassana is free. They ask for donations or that you contribute time. I have never experienced any pushing to do anything. You get fed vegetarian food and have a comfortable bed to sleep in. You get up very early and meditate for about 10 hours a day, although you can go outside and walk around if you want. I didn't really like the recordings we had to listen to every night, but I used the meditation technique we were taught to set that aside.
Thanks for this crucial reminder, Caitlin.
Great essay, Caitlin! Good reminders! Thank you!
Dear Caitlin, I reverse your statement that “all beings are ultimately innocent” with the following: “all adult human beings have been and are guilty”. They have accepted being dominated by small, well-organized groups. They have delegated to these groups the power to decide for them and against them. They have allowed wars, massacres, barbarity of every kind, like no other living species has ever done. They have believed in the lies and deception of the media, governments, false scientists, priests and philosophers sold to power. They have dedicated their extra time to pleasure, superfluous consumption and useless discussions. Every human being considers himself at the center of the world but then depends on those who control the world and create their own subordination. And we must not confuse what we are with what we could be if only we wanted it. But, we do not want it. Out of ignorance and/or fear and/or resignation and/or selfishness and/or envy. If a social pyramid has formed with small dominant groups and many subordinate individuals, it is because the vast majority of people are atomized, disunited, isolated, alone. To change this condition, we cannot start from what could be but from what is, to fight together to get to how it could be.
You don’t understand what she means.
Eh, you know, I am ignorant. However, I think before writing. www.marusi.org/pen.htm
Just Thank you ❤️
Whether you call it inner work, or simply to learn to more fully embrace the reality of nature, and life, we must take action where we can. One thing we cannot do it to allow Israel to escape the legal consequences of their war crimes. The Hind Rajab Foundation has, among other things, filed a case with the ICC against 1,000 Israeli soldiers for war crimes in Gaza.
https://www.hindrajabfoundation.org/perpetrators/hind-rajab-foundation-files-historic-icc-complaint-against-1000-israeli-soldiers-for-war-crimes-in-gaza
They have taken further steps in recent days, and vacations are becoming a lot more difficult for IDF soldiers, worldwide. The Hind Rajab Foundation can use our help. Please join me in making a contribution.
https://buy.stripe.com/cN228hbY5g7jaM84gg
You might find meaningful to watch the recent interviews that Glenn Greenwald did on his Rumble platform, and Ali Abunimah of the Electronic Intifada, did with the head of this organisation, Dyad Abou Jahjah. It was very informative.
Here's a petition calling for accountability for the arrest of Ali Abunimah in Switzerland:
https://chng.it/8D4pkxPhWS
Please sign the petition and share widely.
Thanks for a very refreshing and unique take on the world of today.
It would be very timely and helpful to dig deeper into the minds of Palestinians whose suffering has affected us all. How are they coping with their reality? I am interested especially in trying to understand the children of Gaza. What will be their future like? What has and continues to be the role of women of Gaza? How are men coping with the inability to protect their families?
Just a thought or ‘ramblings’ of someone deeply disturbed by all this. Thanks.