When we talk about the concept of altering consciousness, what do we actually mean? Do we mean improving our memory? Is it increasing our IQ or improving our sleep? Are we discussing becoming psychic or clairvoyant, or reaching a deeper meditation state? Or do we simply want to be able to stop yelling at our children? Now as I see it, altering consciousness is all of this and much, much more. It is shifting the very way we think, see the world, live our lives, and exist on this planet.
I know this sounds very new-age and far-out. That's because it is.
And as I speak about ways to alter consciousness you may begin to think of manifestation, and the movie called the Secret. You may be reminded of Echart Tolle and THE POWER OF NOW or A NEW EARTH. You may think of Yoga, meditation, Buddha and karma. You may recall a life-changing course you once took called The Landmark Forum. You may think of the deepest tenets of Christianity and other world religions. Quotes may come to mind- such as "There but for The Grace of God Go I" and "Love your enemies. Do good to those who hate you. "
But as I personally think about this I suddenly realize... the desire to alter consciousness is not so new after all.
The human race has wanted to alter its consciousness for thousands of years. We have even had some brilliant ideas of what direction to alter it to- living on this earth in peace and harmony, for instance- or having tolerance for others, good judgment, and an abundance of love- or helping people instead of harming them. In short we have had the wonderful idea that all beings should live their lives in joy and happiness, with their needs met and a high level of satisfaction in life. They should do this-and humans have believed this almost without exception.
No my friends, these are not new ideas. But what is new here is the idea, the concept, the glimmer of a thought that we could actually do it There is an arising awareness, sweeping the planet like a brush-fire, that it is within our reach as human beings to live our lives in peace and harmony with each other, as well as with a high level of life fulfillment for all. Now notice I never said people thought this was probable, nor that it was an assured. I only said there is an awareness that it is possible. And that in itself is a huge breakthrough for mankind- as this idea has never occurred in masses of the population before.
Now here is what none of us is sure of- will kill ourselves of, or will we become this possibility of a whole new world?
If you're an optimist like me, you're trying to beat the clock. You and I will try to pull for humanity to find ways alter consciousness, and quickly. And in my articles and blogs, I will give you some good ideas of how to do this. Some are time-honored and take work and practice. Others like brain entrainment are simpler to do and may work more quickly. So stay tuned as we explore this whole new, but old, world. And with that I will say, namaste, and peace be with you.