Wednesday, April 4, 2012

What is the Self?

The Eternal Question.

This seems to be what it all comes back to, for me at least. Sure, I ask and am interested in other questions too. Like, Where did we come from? Where are we going? What happens after we die? Why? WHY???

But beyond these specific concerns, they all seem to be related to the concept of self, which can be varied, even for a single individual. That's part of the issue. 

I've started to design a spiritual studies course for an independent student. So far we've met twice and both times have been as enriching as I imagine participating in a religious community can be.  We are using the study of religion as the diving board into the investigation of our own consciousness.  I say 'we' because there is no denying that I am involved in my own exploration as she is; but the course is tailored to her needs and interest.  Since I have been doing this approach (using the study of religion as a spiritual practice as its own), I act more as a guide for someone who is new to the territory. 

These Questions of Ultimate Concern are at the core of our investigation. Especially the search for who we are. 

As far as the answers to any of these questions, you're guess is as good as mine.  My thrill is within the pure presence of the question. ItSelf.

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Part of my mission is to offer experiences and safe spaces where others can open up to these questions.  One way is through original workshops. The next of which is Embracing the Other: A Partner Yoga and Writing Workshop, April 21st. If you are interested in becoming a spiritual studies student yourself, contact me

Tuesday, April 3, 2012

What the World Has Lost

At the end of Huston Smith's chapter on "Primal Religions," he quotes John Collier:
They has what the world has lost: the ancient, lost reverence and passion for human personality joined with the ancient, lost reverence and passion for the earth and its web of life. Since before the Stone Age they have tended that passion as a central sacred fire. It should be our long hope to renew it in us all.


I have a long hope to help renew this passion in us all. I also know that it starts at home, which is precisely what I am working on.