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A Journey Into the Nature of Consciousness
Wheeler’s U and the Treasure’s Longing

What does it mean for the universe to exist? Is it an intricate dance of particles and waves observed into being or the expression of a primordial longing for self-recognition? When John Archibald Wheeler’s “U” meets the mystical proclamation, “I was a treasure longing to be known, so I created the universe,” we find ourselves at the crossroads of science and mysticism. These two perspectives—one rooted in quantum physics, the other in spiritual poetics—invite us to explore not just the nature of reality but the role of the observer in shaping it.

Podcast Discussion

A profound challenge underlies this exploration: the human sense of being a separate, independent entity—a perception born of dualism and the biological comparing mind. This illusion not only obscures consciousness’s unified, cosmic nature but also reinforces the belief that external events create reality. In truth, both Wheeler’s vision and the treasure’s longing point to a more profound recognition: consciousness is not produced by external events but is the fundamental nature of existence. The world arises from consciousness.

The Universe as Participatory Consciousness

Wheeler’s U depicts the universe as a participatory system, where observation is not passive but an active force shaping reality. The quantum foam at the universe’s origin symbolizes infinite potential, a seething field of possibilities. Human consciousness interacts with this potential in the present moment, collapsing it into specific forms through acts of observation.

This participatory framework challenges the classical view of an objective, independent reality. Instead, Wheeler’s model suggests that consciousness and reality are intertwined: without observers, the universe remains an undifferentiated sea of possibilities. However, Wheeler’s insight goes further—it hints that the observer is not an isolated individual but part of a greater, collective consciousness that participates in shaping the cosmos.

The Universe as Conscious Self-Expression

The mystical phrase “I was a treasure longing to be known, so I created the universe” offers a complementary perspective. Here, creation is portrayed not as a mechanical unfolding but as an act of divine self-expression. The hidden treasure symbolizes infinite, unmanifested consciousness. To know itself, it manifests the universe—a reflection of its essence.

This vision emphasizes that the world does not give rise to consciousness; rather, the world arises from consciousness. As conscious observers, human beings fulfill the treasure’s longing by perceiving, knowing, and embodying the divine essence. The act of observation, whether scientific or spiritual, is not separate from creation itself—it is the very means by which the treasure reveals and experiences its truth.

The Illusion of Separation

The recognition that consciousness is the fundamental nature of existence is obscured by the human tendency to see ourselves as separate, independent entities. This illusion arises from:
1. Dualism:
  Our perception divides reality into subject and object, self and other, creating the false impression of separateness.
2. The Comparing Mind:
  The brain, wired for survival, constantly evaluates and categorizes experiences, reinforcing a sense of individuality. This comparison-based perception limits our ability to see the interconnected nature of existence.
3. Subjective Bias:
  Each observer interprets reality through their unique lens of personal experiences, beliefs, and emotions. This subjectivity creates a fragmented view, making it difficult to grasp the unified nature of consciousness.
These factors challenge the recognition that the individual observer is not the sole creator of reality but part of a collective, unified consciousness. The world we see is not an objective external reality but a subjective projection shaped by individual and collective awareness.

“In His Image”

The biblical phrase, “God created man in his image,” takes on profound significance in this context. This statement does not refer to physical form but to the unique human capacity to reflect universal consciousness. Just as the treasure longs to know itself, human beings possess the ability to observe, create, and know—a mirror of the divine process.

This capacity is expressed in:
1. Creative Power:
  Like the treasure, humans bring potential into form through imagination, intention, and action.
2. Self-Awareness:
  The ability to reflect on one’s existence mirrors the treasure’s act of knowing itself through creation.
3. Recognition of Unity:
  By transcending the illusion of separateness, humans can recognize their role as participants in a universal consciousness.
Consciousness as the Source of Reality

Both Wheeler’s U and the treasure’s longing converge in their deeper implication: consciousness is primary, and the world arises from it. This perspective overturns the belief that consciousness is a byproduct of external events or physical processes. Instead, it suggests:
Reality is not “out there”:
The external world is not independent of consciousness but arises from it, much like a dream arises from the dreamer’s mind.

The Observer is Integral to Creation:
As Wheeler’s observers collapse quantum potentials into reality, human consciousness creates the perceived world.

Unity Underlies Diversity:
Despite the apparent diversity of forms and experiences, all phenomena emerge from a single, unified field of consciousness.
Toward a Unified Understanding

To embrace this cosmic view requires transcending the limitations of the comparing mind and dualistic perception. It invites us to:
1. Recognize the Illusion of Separateness:
  The sense of being an independent entity is a construct of the mind. In truth, we are expressions of the same universal consciousness.
2. Shift from Individual to Collective Awareness:
  Reality is not shaped by isolated individuals but by the collective participation of all consciousness. Recognizing this dissolves the boundaries between self and other.
3. See the World as Arising from Consciousness:
  The external world is not something we observe passively but something we co-create. This realization aligns us with the deeper truth of our being.
The Ultimate Recognition

Wheeler’s U and the treasure’s longing lead us to a profound recognition: consciousness is the foundation of existence. In all its forms and phenomena, the universe expresses this consciousness seeking to know itself. To observe the world is to participate in its creation; to inquire into the nature of reality is to journey toward the heart of the treasure.

In this recognition, the boundaries between observer and observed dissolve. The world ceases to be a collection of external events and becomes an intimate reflection of consciousness itself. The treasure’s longing is fulfilled not through some distant, transcendent act but in the simple, profound act of being aware. In that awareness, we find not only the universe but the eternal presence of the treasure, shimmering at the core of all that is.
November 15
You’re the Problem. What Now?

Seek Knowledge First, not Reward

Leaders and employees are often laser-focused on problem-solving in today’s fast-paced business world. We analyze workflows, revise strategies, and refine processes, hoping to create efficient, practical outcomes. But what happens when, after exhausting all other possibilities, you discover that you’re the problem?

Podcast Discussion

While it’s easy to place blame externally, embracing the possibility that your behaviors, beliefs, or biases might be at the core of an issue is a challenging but transformative approach. Recognizing yourself as a potential source of friction is a decisive step toward growth, trust-building, and meaningful change within your team or organization.

So, you’re the problem. What now? Here are ways to transform that awareness into genuine growth and impact.

Acknowledge the Paradox of Self-Improvement

Self-improvement often appears as a straightforward journey—identify flaws, work on them, and achieve results. Ironically, focusing on “fixing” yourself can unintentionally reinforce the behaviors or blind spots you’re trying to change. This paradox is rooted in the belief that something is fundamentally wrong with you, creating a narrow and sometimes counterproductive view of self-development.

Instead, adopt a mindset of self-discovery rather than self-improvement. This shift can reduce the pressure to overhaul everything at once and open opportunities for real insight into how you show up at work, lead, and communicate. Transformation begins with a willingness to see yourself clearly, without the urgent pressure to change.

Recognize Unintended Consequences

It’s natural to avoid uncomfortable truths, and in the workplace, this can manifest as dodging difficult feedback, disregarding conflicting opinions, or letting unresolved issues linger. Avoidance may provide temporary relief, but it often leads to a cycle that reinforces the very behaviors you’re trying to escape. For example, if you avoid direct feedback, your team may withhold honest perspectives, leading to unspoken tensions and a lack of innovation.

Instead of sidestepping uncomfortable feedback, actively seek it out. Approach it with curiosity, asking questions like, What am I not seeing? How can this feedback help me grow? This approach transforms feedback from a threat into an opportunity, breaking the cycle of avoidance and allowing you to address challenges proactively.

Break Free of Self-Justification

When facing feedback or criticism, our first instinct is often to justify our actions, explain our perspective, or defend our choices. This instinct creates a self-reinforcing loop—the self-justification cycle—where each explanation solidifies our original behavior, making it harder to change. Over time, we become so accustomed to defending our actions that we block alternative perspectives and limit growth.

To step out of this cycle, practice inverse logic. Instead of immediately defending your perspective, consider the opposite: What if my approach is part of the problem? What if my perspective is limiting my team? By stepping outside of self-justification, you gain insights that wouldn’t be possible within the echo chamber of your viewpoint.

Beware of the Cobra Effect

The Cobra Effect, a term describing unintended consequences that arise when solutions backfire, is a trap many leaders fall into. Attempting to solve a problem with a quick fix can exacerbate the issue rather than resolve it. For example, introducing strict controls to address performance issues might seem like a solution, but it can backfire by eroding trust and autonomy, ultimately reducing morale and productivity.

To avoid the Cobra Effect, take the time to fully understand a problem before implementing a solution. Consider broader questions like, What are the unintended consequences of this action? How will it impact team dynamics? By considering the ripple effects, you’re more likely to implement effective and sustainable solutions.

Curiosity as a Counterbalance to Control

When faced with challenges, the impulse to control outcomes is strong. This tendency to micromanage often stems from a fear of uncertainty. But the more we try to control every aspect of a situation, the more we risk alienating our teams, stifling innovation, and becoming the problem ourselves.

The antidote? Curiosity. Shifting from control to curiosity can foster an environment where ideas, innovation, and trust can flourish. Instead of dictating every step, ask open-ended questions: What am I not considering? How can I empower my team to take ownership? Curiosity invites collaboration and creative problem-solving, shifting your role from enforcer to facilitator.

See Yourself as the Opportunity

Recognizing yourself as part of a problem is challenging but also a powerful opportunity. In business, change is constant, and adaptability is essential. When you hold yourself accountable for the impact of your actions, you become a catalyst for growth, setting an example of accountability and resilience.

Ask yourself, How can I turn this awareness into a strength? By viewing your role in challenges as an opportunity for growth, you lead by example, showing that accountability is a strength, not a weakness.

Awareness for Real Transformation

Real transformation doesn’t come from quick fixes or drastic changes; it begins with cultivating awareness of how you show up, impact others, and shape your team’s culture. Awareness—observing your reactions, assumptions, and attitudes without interference—is the foundation of meaningful change.

When you bring awareness to your actions, transformation unfolds naturally. Awareness helps you identify areas where you may be creating friction, and once you see these patterns clearly, they often begin to shift on their own. This process isn’t about adding more controls but fostering growth through understanding and insight.

Replace Self-Improvement with Self-Discovery

The desire to “fix” ourselves is deeply ingrained in business culture, but often, this focus traps us in a cycle of dissatisfaction. Instead, embrace self-discovery as a more sustainable approach to growth. Self-discovery allows you to explore your behaviors, motivations, and tendencies without the urgency of change, fostering genuine insight rather than superficial fixes.

Ask yourself reflective questions like, What drives my behavior in this situation? How do my beliefs shape my interactions? By seeing yourself without the pressure to fix, you gain clarity that leads to authentic growth and development.

Creating a Culture of Accountability and Growth

Acknowledging that you’re part of a problem is a pivotal moment of self-awareness. It’s an invitation to take accountability and approach your work with a mindset of openness and exploration. When you approach this awareness with curiosity and a desire to understand, you create a foundation for meaningful change.

Creating a culture where accountability is valued starts with you. By modeling self-discovery, embracing feedback, and resisting the urge for quick fixes, you create an environment where others feel empowered to do the same. The transformation starts with your willingness to see yourself clearly, hold yourself accountable, and approach challenges as opportunities rather than obstacles.

So, you’re the problem. What now? Now, you turn that awareness into growth, not by fixing yourself but by understanding yourself. One powerful way to explore and gain insights into your unique tendencies, motivations, and challenges is through the Enneagram. This tool for self-discovery offers a nuanced map of personality patterns, allowing you to see your strengths and the limitations that may arise in your leadership style. Using the Enneagram as a guide, you can deepen your self-awareness and cultivate a continuous learning and growth mindset, creating an authentic, resilient path for yourself and your organization.

November 10
The Way We See Shapes Our Journey

Changing the Way We See Our Situation

Life is complex, full of twists and turns that can make us feel blessed or cursed. But here’s the thing: it all comes down to the way we see. What we perceive depends not just on what we’re looking at but how we choose to see it. Sometimes, shifting our perspective is all it takes to transform a challenging situation into an opportunity for growth and wisdom.

Podcast Discussion

While challenging, the following moments can teach us something about ourselves if we’re open to seeing them differently. Let’s explore how reframing these situations can offer new insights and directions for moving forward.

Little round planet in a big universe
Sometimes it looks blessed, sometimes it looks cursed
Depends on what you look at, obviously
But even more it depends on the way that you see
Bruce Cockburn

Behind the Eight Ball

When you’re behind the eight ball, feeling cornered with no way out is tempting. But that’s where the magic happens—your creative instincts kick in. Instead of focusing on how stuck you feel, try shifting your perspective. Sometimes, the best move isn’t obvious, but the one you never saw coming. Relax into the pressure, let go of the need for control, and watch as the next shot reveals itself.

The greater the obstacle, the more glory in overcoming it.
Molière

Between a Rock and a Hard Place

When you’re between a rock and a hard place, it’s easy to feel both options are impossible. But remember, pressure creates diamonds. The discomfort you’re feeling shapes you, pushing you to find strength you didn’t know you had. Instead of focusing on the walls closing in, ask yourself: what is this moment teaching me? There’s always a third way, hidden just beyond fear and doubt.

Out of difficulties grow miracles.
Jean de La Bruyère

Up the Creek Without a Paddle

When you’re up the creek without a paddle, you may think you’re stranded, but sometimes losing control is exactly what’s needed. Let the current carry you for a while. There’s wisdom in surrender, in letting go of the need to steer every moment. Trust that the flow of life knows where to take you, even when you don’t.

You must learn to sit with the restless mind and the unanswerable questions; only then does the river carry you.
Gangaji

In a Pickle

When you’re in a pickle, it’s easy to get caught in the mess, forgetting that every problem has a solution waiting to be found. It’s not about escaping the situation but leaning into it with curiosity. How did you end up here, and what’s the lesson hidden in the brine? Often, the answer is simpler than you think—it just needs a little time to ferment.

Turn your wounds into wisdom.
Friedrich Nietzsche

In Hot Water

When you’re in hot water, panicking and feeling like you’re about to boil over is tempting. But heat transforms. This moment is an invitation to shed what no longer serves you. Instead of jumping out of the situation, let it cleanse and refine you. Growth comes when we can withstand the heat without running from it.

The fire that burns cleanses as well. You cannot escape it, but you can be renewed.
Teresa of Ávila

In a Tight Spot

When you’re in a tight spot, there’s no room to breathe. But constraints can be catalysts for creativity. The tighter the squeeze, the more innovative your solutions can become. Instead of resisting the pressure, lean into it—sometimes the only way out is through, and on the other side, you’ll find a version of yourself that can handle anything.

Life is a tightrope walk, but when we learn to walk with grace, we find a beauty in balance.Rainer Maria Rilke

Caught Between Scylla and Charybdis

When you’re caught between Scylla and Charybdis, facing two equally dangerous choices, remember that ancient sailors survived this same passage. It’s not about picking the lesser evil but navigating with wisdom. Sometimes, the best course is to take the risk you’ve been avoiding. Fear may be the only monster standing in your way.

The way is not in the sky. The way is in the heart.
Buddha (interpreted through Attar of Nishapur)

Out of the Frying Pan and Into the Fire

When you’re out of the frying pan and into the fire, it might feel like life went from bad to worse. But consider that the fire is a place of transformation. Metal doesn’t get stronger without heat. Sometimes, you have to overcome intense challenges to become more resilient on the other side. It’s not about escaping the fire but letting it forge you.

What is to give light must endure burning.
Viktor Frankl

Back to the Wall

When your back’s to the wall, it may seem like all your options have vanished. But here’s the secret: the wall is a boundary that forces focus. With nowhere left to run, clarity emerges. The only direction left is forward; sometimes, that’s precisely what you need—nowhere to go but through the challenge.

The harder the struggle, the more glorious the triumph.
Swami Sivananda

In a Bind

When you’re in a bind and feel trapped, remember that tight situations often reveal hidden strengths. This moment is about resourcefulness, about finding flexibility in what seems rigid. Take a breath. Look at the knots in your situation—what can be loosened with patience and a fresh perspective?

Man is born free, but everywhere he is in chains.
Jean-Jacques Rousseau

In Dire Straits

When you’re in dire straits, it feels like you’re on the verge of sinking. But the most valuable lessons often come when navigating the roughest waters. Instead of fixating on survival, ask yourself what you need to release to stay afloat. Sometimes, the things we cling to are what weighs us down.

The wave does not need to die to become water. It is already water.
Thich Nhat Hanh

In a Jam

When you’re in a jam, life feels sticky and complicated. But remember, jams are made by concentrating on the sweetness of life’s fruit. What’s complicating your situation might be an opportunity to refine your focus and distill what’s essential. Don’t fight the stickiness—work with it and see how it can morph into something beautiful.

The wound is the place where the light enters you.
Rumi

On Thin Ice

Every step feels precarious when you’re on thin ice, but this is where grace comes into play. The key isn’t to move faster or panic but to find balance, to tread lightly. Ice may crack, but you won’t fall through if you remain centered. This is your chance to practice calm in the face of uncertainty.

Difficulties are things that show what men are.
Epictetus

Over a Barrel

When you’re over a barrel, feeling like someone else has the upper hand, it’s natural to feel powerless. But even in this vulnerable position, you can regain your agency. Acknowledge your vulnerability without giving away your power. Sometimes, the greatest strength comes from owning your situation, not fighting it.

We are not trapped by circumstance, but by our own perspective.
Seneca

In Deep Water

When you’re in deep water, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the vastness of your problems. But remember, depth can also mean untapped potential. You’re not drowning; you’re learning to swim in new waters. Dive deeper, trust that you can navigate what’s beneath the surface.

The deeper you go, the clearer it becomes that you were always meant to swim.
Kabir

At the End of One’s Rope

When you’re at the end of your rope, it may feel like there’s nothing left to hold onto. But sometimes, the rope’s end is where you finally let go. Surrendering doesn’t mean giving up—it means releasing control and trusting that something greater will catch you. The rope may end, but your journey doesn’t.

All the way to heaven is heaven.
St. Catherine of Siena

The Way You See It

Life will always present challenges—moments when we feel cornered or overwhelmed by uncertainty. The key isn’t in avoiding these moments but in how we approach them. If we shift our mindset to see obstacles as opportunities and problems as pathways, we begin to unlock our potential for resilience and creativity.

As we navigate life on this little round planet, it’s not just about what we look at but how we choose to see it. Each challenge offers a choice: will you view it as a dead-end or a turning point? The power to shift lies not in external circumstances but in our perspective.

Our perspective can become a prison, limiting how we experience reality. We tend to view life through the lens of our conditioning, personal experiences, and egoic structures, believing our interpretations are the ultimate truth. This narrow view often leads to dissatisfaction and suffering, as we mistake our perception for the whole of reality. Trapped in mental constructs, life can feel like an endless series of problems and contradictions.

The Diamond Approach® offers a way out of this confinement by encouraging us to loosen our grip on fixed perspectives. Rather than clinging to one rigid point of view, this method opens us to a broader view of totality, where all perspectives are valid, but none are final. Perspectives become tools, not absolute truths, allowing us to see life’s complexities without being constrained by any one philosophy or system. This shift deepens our experience of reality, moving beyond the limits of the individual viewpoint and into the vastness of Being.

By releasing the need to hold onto any perspective, we open ourselves to what the Diamond Approach calls “Living Being.” This allows us to experience reality in its fullness, free from the habitual labels and categories we impose on it. Instead of viewing life through the narrow lens of the ego, we embrace a more inclusive perspective that encompasses all dimensions of existence. In doing so, the Diamond Approach helps us transcend the limitations of the self and discover a greater sense of freedom, clarity, and possibility.

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November 10
The Stigma of Spirituality

What is spirituality?

The word spiritual often triggers mixed reactions. Whether linked to religion or dismissed as mystical, spirituality carries a stigma of spiritual and spirituality that can make people uncomfortable. For some, it’s tied to organized religion, evoking thoughts of rigid rules or ancient traditions. For others, it’s associated with new-age ideas that feel distant from daily life. Whether linked to religion or dismissed as mystical, spirituality often carries a stigma. But what if we could move beyond this stigma and discover a broader view of what it means to be spiritual?

Podcast Discussion

The Association Between Spirituality and Religion

This stigma of spirituality often stems from its association with rigid systems like religion, but spirituality is far more than dogma. When people hear the word spiritual, they usually think of formal systems like Christianity or Hinduism. Take Hinduism, for example, with its many deities that might seem confusing or overly focused on ritual. Yet, at its heart, Hindu spirituality points to something deeper—a unity beneath all things, where the various deities express a single, ultimate reality. Moving past the stigma of spirituality allows us to see it as a way to engage deeply with life, presence, and reality.

The spiritual path is a process of dis-identification, an undoing of limiting beliefs and assumptions about who we are, and a continual discovery of deeper truths about our nature and existence
A. H. Almaas

Spirituality as a Way of Life

This deeper essence is often missed because spirituality is frequently equated with dogma or religious practices from our upbringing. For many, this leaves them disillusioned, but spirituality doesn’t have to be tied to any religious system. It transcends religion. Consider Buddhism, which is often seen more as a philosophy than a religion. It doesn’t require belief in a god but offers a path for understanding the nature of suffering and the human experience. It’s about mindfulness and ethical living, showing that spirituality can be practical and deeply connected to everyday life.

The Essence of mind is intrinsically pure. When we know our own mind, we transcend delusion and attain enlightenment.
Huineng

Spirituality as Presence in Everyday Life

So, what remains if we strip away the layers of religion and tradition? At its core, spirituality is about engaging with life and reality. Some teachings speak of spiritual Essence, a kind of light—not in the physical sense, but as a deeper consciousness we all share. This light isn’t separate from us; the awareness flows through our experiences, grounding us in the present moment.

Challenging the Divide Between Material and Spiritual

Unfortunately, many have compartmentalized our lives, treating spirituality as separate. We consider it distinct from our work, family, or daily routines. However, true spirituality is not limited to specific activities or rituals. It’s the presence we bring to everything, whether at work or with loved ones.

Another issue is the idea that the material and spiritual worlds are separate. Many religious teachings suggest that the material world is something to rise above. This has contributed to the belief that spirituality is about withdrawing from real life, but the truth is quite the opposite. Spirituality invites us to engage more fully with the world, recognizing that the material and spiritual are one.

Your daily life is your temple and your religion. Whenever you enter into it take with you your all.
Kahlil Gibran

Integrating Psychological and Spiritual Growth

There’s also a misconception that spiritual growth can happen without addressing our psychological health. Some may believe profound spiritual experiences are possible without dealing with emotional wounds. However, as traditions like the Diamond Approach® teach, true spiritual development involves healing both the psychological and spiritual aspects of ourselves. It’s not about escaping life’s difficulties but transforming them through awareness.

Ultimately, spirituality isn’t about religion or mystical experiences. It’s about recognizing a deeper reality in our everyday lives. Whether or not we follow a specific tradition, spirituality is about living with presence, connection, and awareness. It’s not something to separate or dismiss—it’s something to live. Moving beyond the stigma, we see that spirituality isn’t about belief. It’s about being fully engaged in the reality of life as it is.

A Modern-Day Spiritual Path

The Diamond Approach is a modern-day spiritual path that differs from traditional religions. It doesn’t involve worshiping deities or aiming for an ultimate state of consciousness. The Diamond Approach is not a religion. It doesn’t center on worshiping a deity nor present an ultimate goal or state of consciousness to strive for. While it provides an understanding of a vast cosmology, it’s not dogmatic. Instead, the Diamond Approach offers a map—a guide to the infinite possibilities of consciousness. It’s a framework that encourages exploration, not rigid adherence to a prescribed belief system.

Wherever you are is the entry point.
Kabir

Individual Growth and Inquiry

What sets the Diamond Approach apart is its recognition of the uniqueness of each individual’s journey. There is no standardized path, no one-size-fits-all format for growth. Every student’s unfolding into the Mystery of consciousness and life is personal, allowing for an authentic and intimate engagement with one’s experiences and inner realities.

The Diamond Approach emphasizes presence, inquiry, and the understanding that the spiritual journey is a dynamic, ever-evolving process. It doesn’t demand answers but invites continuous curiosity into the nature of reality and self. The path blends psychological and spiritual growth, offering a practical, living approach to spiritual development that fully integrates with daily life. This openness makes it a living teaching that grows with each student’s unfolding, offering support as they navigate the depths of their being.

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November 8
Books That Opened My Mind to New Realms of Consciousness

Early in my spiritual journey, I encountered three remarkable books—The Star Rover, Through the Curtain, and The Tiger’s Fang—that opened my mind to vistas I had never imagined. These books brought me into worlds where the boundaries of ordinary perception melted away, revealing the possibility of a consciousness that reaches far beyond our limited, everyday sense of self.

The Star Rover

by Jack London: A Visionary Journey of Past Lives

In The Star Rover, Jack London uses the story of Darrell Standing, a prisoner subjected to severe solitary confinement, to explore the powers of consciousness and transcendence. Standing discovers a way to enter trances that transport him into his past lives across different eras and cultures. Through these trance states, he recalls previous existences with such vivid detail that they feel as real as his current life. Standing’s experiences offer readers a metaphysical exploration of the soul’s journey through time, questioning the nature of reality and memory.

The novel’s ambiguous ending, referencing an oar from one of Standing’s past lives supposedly held in the Smithsonian Institute, leaves readers between fiction and possibility. The oar becomes a powerful symbol of the novel’s central themes, suggesting that perhaps the mysteries of the human psyche contain remnants of lifetimes lived. London’s novel ultimately underscores the idea that reality is vast and malleable, accessible to those willing to push the limits of consciousness.

Through the Curtain

by Viola Petitt Neal and Shafica Karagulla: Investigating the Psychic Realms

Written by Viola Petitt Neal, an American psychic, and Shafica Karagulla, a psychiatrist interested in paranormal phenomena, Through the Curtain combines psychic experiences with scientific inquiry. This book bridges mystical experiences and clinical observation, seeking to explain psychic phenomena such as clairvoyance and spiritual healing within a scientific framework. The authors delve into the “curtain” between ordinary reality and the hidden layers of consciousness, presenting a perspective that views human awareness as a multidimensional experience.

Set partly in Edinburgh, Scotland, where Karagulla worked in mental health, the book draws upon personal and clinical experiences to explore psychic perception as a legitimate human faculty. By treating psychic experiences as real and investigable, Neal and Karagulla present a daring alternative to traditional Western psychology, proposing that realms of experience beyond the physical world are open to those sensitive enough to perceive them. Their work suggests that consciousness is not limited to the physical senses and can extend into unseen dimensions—a recurring theme across the three books.

The Tiger’s Fang

by Paul Twitchell: The Journey Beyond the Physical Plane

The Tiger’s Fang, written by Paul Twitchell, founder of the spiritual movement Eckankar, narrates a remarkable journey across spiritual planes guided by Twitchell’s spiritual teacher, Rebazar Tarzs. Twitchell recounts traversing numerous spiritual realms beyond the physical and astral planes, each unveiling a deeper level of spiritual truth and understanding. These realms are depicted as vibrantly alive, representing states of consciousness that move beyond earthly limitations.

Twitchell’s journey is an allegory for the spiritual seeker’s quest for self-realization and enlightenment. The Tiger’s Fang describes each plane as a station in the soul’s evolution, each with unique lessons and experiences. His encounters in these realms resonate with themes found in Neal and Karagulla’s work in that they explore a layered consciousness that bridges earthly and spiritual dimensions. Through Twitchell’s perspective, readers are invited to consider spiritual liberation as a process of ascending beyond the ego into realms of pure awareness.

Consciousness and Transcendence

These three books reveal different yet intersecting paths of exploring consciousness and transcendence. The Star Rover presents past lives as gateways to a collective memory that transcends the individual. Through the Curtain examines psychic perception as a tangible extension of the mind, proposing that each person holds the potential to reach beyond the ordinary. The Tiger’s Fang presents a structured journey across spiritual planes, suggesting a cosmic map of consciousness that leads to the ultimate realization of one’s divine nature.

All three books challenge conventional views of reality, inviting readers to look beyond what the physical senses can perceive. Whether through mystical vision, psychic insight, or spiritual guidance, each narrative suggests that reality is layered, with each layer offering deeper truths about existence and the soul. These works encourage a journey beyond self-imposed limits, hinting that consciousness, in its vast capacity, holds the power to transcend, connect, and awaken us to our most profound potential.

So, what if we loosen our beliefs about what is possible? These books dare us to imagine that there may be realms and forces at play right now, just beyond our perception, inviting us to explore consciousness without boundaries.

Have you read books that challenged your view of reality or took you to places beyond the ordinary? Share them—let’s keep this exploration going together.

November 6
Self-Fulfilling Outrage

Outrage has become a defining quality of our times. This rocket fuel ignites our screens, fills our conversations more, and real action less. Social media feeds are filled with fiery debates, political polarity sharpens, and even minor grievances can quickly escalate into full-blown clashes. It seems we’ve fallen into an angry existential loop: we’re enraged by a world we feel powerless to change, yet our outrage only appears to strengthen the forces we oppose. So, what drives this self-fulfilling, life-sucking cycle, and how can we step back from its grip?

When was the last time your outrage led to real-world action? Beyond sharing posts or venting online, have you put your energy into tangible change—like volunteering, supporting a cause financially, or initiating honest conversations with people who think differently? If not, ask yourself: Is your outrage serving a purpose, or is it just serving itself?

Podcast Discussion

The Nature of Outrage

At the heart of this dynamic lies a powerful feedback loop: the more we engage with outrage, the more we seek reasons to feel it. This phenomenon, sometimes called self-fulfilling outrage, describes how our chronic need to feel outraged influences our perception. We become primed to see insults and threats everywhere, with even minor slights now fueling our next wave of indignation.

And fueling this cycle are algorithms designed to keep us engaged. By curating our feeds to show us stories and posts that align with our emotional state, algorithms fan the flames of outrage by showing us content that intensifies our reactivity. By continually serving us content that confirms our biases and ignites strong responses, algorithms ensure we remain in a constant state of arousal, locking us in a self-sustaining cycle.

The result? Outrage generates a temporary sense of validation, of feeling alive and involved. But the longer we ride the wave, the more we find ourselves locked in a negative spiral, caught between feeling disempowered and continually seeking emotional release. Our psyche craves this intense stimulation, even if it leaves us feeling depleted and disconnected.

Outrage is not action. Do the work that needs to be done in silence; let the results be your noise.

The Feedback Loop of Outrage

At the heart of this dynamic lies a powerful feedback loop: the more we engage with outrage, the more we seek reasons to feel it. This phenomenon, sometimes called self-fulfilling outrage, describes how our chronic need to feel outraged influences our perception. We become primed to see insults and threats everywhere. Small slights, which might once have passed us by, are now fuel for our next round of outrage. Our feeds, curated by algorithms, amplify this tendency by serving us the stories and posts that align with our emotional state, making outrage self-sustaining.

Here’s the twist: outrage generates a temporary sense of validation, of feeling alive and involved. But the longer we ride the wave, the more we find ourselves locked in a negative spiral, caught between feeling disempowered and continually seeking emotional release. Our psyche craves this intense stimulation, even if it leaves us feeling depleted and disconnected.

Do not be content with showing anger; let your actions reflect your values.

The Cost of Self-fulfilling Outrage

Outrage becomes our default state, shaping our relationships, decision-making, and physical health. Neuroscientists have shown that chronic anger triggers the release of cortisol and adrenaline, stress hormones that keep the body alert. While these hormones can help in real crises, they’re toxic when perpetually active, leading to fatigue, compromised immunity, and burnout.

Psychologically, the effects are equally corrosive. Outrage blinds us to nuance, pushing us toward black-and-white thinking, where we categorize people and issues as entirely good or entirely bad. We lose the capacity for empathy, curiosity, and open-ended dialogue—qualities that could defuse the outrage cycle. By perpetually seeking the next outrage fix, we divert energy from meaningful action, locking ourselves in a loop that, paradoxically, leaves the issues we care about unresolved.

A person in a chronic state of anger is not just angry; they are in a perpetual state of self-division, mentally cut off from curiosity, empathy, and openness. Anger narrows our perception, creating a psychological prison where we see only enemies and lose sight of the complexity and humanity in ourselves and others.
Carl Jung

Ego’s Role in Perpetuating Outrage

In the Diamond Approach®, the ego’s self-referential nature is central to this dynamic. In many ways, outrage extends the ego’s need to assert itself—to assert a position and declare, “I am right, and you are wrong.” This righteousness feeds the ego’s sense of separateness and strengthens the boundaries that make us feel isolated and embattled.

Interestingly, the ego doesn’t particularly care whether it feels positive or negative emotions; it craves intensity. With its powerful charge, outrage becomes a vehicle for the ego to feel alive, relevant, and powerful. In this way, the ego co-opts outrage to sustain its identity, making it harder for us to let go of grievances, even when they no longer serve us.

Awareness and Reflection

Breaking free from self-fulfilling outrage requires cultivating awareness around our emotional triggers. Ask yourself: What purpose does this outrage serve for me? What am I truly hoping to change? And is my current approach—this repetitive cycle of anger—helping or harming my deeper values?

This approach invites us to shift from outrage to what could be called engaged concern, a state where we still care deeply but don’t become consumed. Engaged concern allows us to take action from a place of clarity rather than reactivity. It might resemble right-action in Buddhism, emphasizing mindful, purposeful involvement without clinging to the results. By observing our inner reactions, we can step back and let our responses come from a place of intentionality rather than the knee-jerk drive of the ego.

Perform your duty and abandon all attachment to success or failure. Such evenness of mind is called yoga.
Bhagavad Gita, 2:48

Reclaiming Power through Non-Reactivity

We regain a sense of agency when we resist the pull of outrage. We step out of the outraged spectator’s passive role and into the engaged participant’s active role. This doesn’t mean ignoring injustice or accepting harmful behavior; instead, it means choosing responses that align with our higher intentions.

The less reactive we become, the more power we reclaim. This shift allows us to channel our energy into sustained efforts that promote real change rather than feeding the outrage machine. It also cultivates inner resilience, making us less susceptible to emotional manipulation by external forces, be they media, algorithms, or social expectations.

By oneself is evil done; by oneself is one defiled. By oneself is evil left undone; by oneself is one purified. Purity and impurity depend on oneself; no one can purify another.
Dhammapada, 165

Radical Letting Go

The ultimate liberation from the self-fulfilling outrage cycle may lie in letting go—not passively or indifferently but as a conscious release of attachment. This requires embracing a paradox: we can care deeply without constantly being angry.

As Sufi and Zen teachings suggest, letting go of outrage doesn’t mean letting go of love or compassion. It can deepen our connection to these qualities. By stepping out of the outrage cycle, we return to a state of openness where we can listen, understand, and act from a place of wisdom.

Outrage as a Tool, Not a Trap

When harnessed consciously, outrage can be a powerful motivator for change. But left unchecked, it becomes a trap, pulling us into a loop that drains our energy and obscures our vision. The challenge lies in transforming outrage from a self-fulfilling habit into a conscious tool to serve our highest values rather than the ego’s need for affirmation.

If we can resist the seduction of self-fulfilling outrage, we open the door to a new way of being—less reactive, more intentional, and infinitely more freeing. In this state, perhaps, our real power lies not in the intensity of our outrage but in the quiet strength of our awareness, resilience, and compassion.

Do not be led by anger; do not be led by lust; do not be led by hate; do not be led by pride. Let not your life be ruled by self-interest, but let it serve the highest good of all.
Dhammapada, 84

Working Without Rage

Like all emotions, outrage serves a purpose—two, in fact. First, it can fuel action and defense when boundaries are crossed or values are violated. It can rally us to stand up against injustice and protect what matters. But outrage can also serve as a shield, distracting us from feeling deeper, more vulnerable emotions. Beneath the heat of anger, there’s often something softer and more difficult to face: hurt, disappointment, even fear. Anger, after all, is a secondary emotion, often covering the pain we might rather avoid.

The paradox is that if we allow outrage to harden into a constant state, we distance ourselves from the deeper wound beneath. Like a flash fire, outrage can burn brightly and powerfully, but it doesn’t always offer healing. Instead, it keeps us in perpetual battle mode, locked in an external fight rather than an internal reckoning. And when we distance ourselves from our pain, we also cut ourselves off from compassion—the ability to truly meet suffering, both in ourselves and others, with openness and empathy.

To embody compassion in a world that sometimes seems to run on outrage, we must be willing to feel the pain and hurt beneath it. Compassion isn’t a detachment from suffering; it works within pain and suffering, not outside it. When we allow ourselves to sit with the underlying hurt, to be present with our vulnerabilities, we open a space for compassion to emerge naturally. And from that place, our actions are guided not by the brittle energy of outrage but by a strength rooted in clarity and connectedness.

In this way, working with outrage means transforming it from a habitual reaction into a conscious response. We can honor the call to defend what’s right without letting it override our capacity for understanding and empathy. Outrage can be a powerful tool, but only if we use it mindfully, allowing it to connect us more deeply to the humanity in ourselves and others. When grounded in compassion, our actions carry the charge of reaction and the wisdom to make meaningful change.

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