Author of the Enlightenment, Dreamstate and Jed Talks trilogies by Wisefool Press, and hundreds of articles on Jedvaita.com.
_______________________________________Visit Jedvaita.com and receive a free copy of The Tao of the Large-Breasted Goddess with the Shapely Behind: The Story of the Writing of the Tao Te Ching ( a play in 6 acts), and to receive email updates when new content is made available._______________________________________ WisefoolPress.com: The Search Is Overhttps://www.wisefoolpress.com/ Jedvaita.com: The Way the World Unfoldshttps://jedvaita.com/ Amazon Jed McKenna Pagehttps://www.amazon.com/-/e/B001JS057A_______________________________________The fool who persists in his folly will become wise.-William Blake_______________________________________
_______________________________________Visit Jedvaita.com and receive a free copy of The Tao of the Large-Breasted Goddess with the Shapely Behind: The Story of the Writing of the Tao Te Ching ( a play in 6 acts), and to receive email updates when new content is made available._______________________________________ WisefoolPress.com: The Search Is Overhttps://www.wisefoolpress.com/ Jedvaita.com: The Way the World Unfoldshttps://jedvaita.com/ Amazon Jed McKenna Pagehttps://www.amazon.com/-/e/B001JS057A_______________________________________The fool who persists in his folly will become wise.-William Blake_______________________________________
_______________________________________Visit Jedvaita.com and receive a free copy of The Tao of the Large-Breasted Goddess with the Shapely Behind: The Story of the Writing of the Tao Te Ching ( a play in 6 acts), and to receive email updates when new content is made available._______________________________________ WisefoolPress.com: The Search Is Overhttps://www.wisefoolpress.com/ Jedvaita.com: The Way the World Unfoldshttps://jedvaita.com/ Amazon Jed McKenna Pagehttps://www.amazon.com/-/e/B001JS057A_______________________________________The fool who persists in his folly will become wise.-William Blake_______________________________________
_______________________________________Visit Jedvaita.com and receive a free copy of The Tao of the Large-Breasted Goddess with the Shapely Behind: The Story of the Writing of the Tao Te Ching ( a play in 6 acts), and to receive email updates when new content is made available._______________________________________ WisefoolPress.com: The Search Is Overhttps://www.wisefoolpress.com/ Jedvaita.com: The Way the World Unfoldshttps://jedvaita.com/ Amazon Jed McKenna Pagehttps://www.amazon.com/-/e/B001JS057A_______________________________________The fool who persists in his folly will become wise.-William Blake_______________________________________
_______________________________________Visit Jedvaita.com and receive a free copy of The Tao of the Large-Breasted Goddess with the Shapely Behind: The Story of the Writing of the Tao Te Ching ( a play in 6 acts), and to receive email updates when new content is made available._______________________________________ WisefoolPress.com: The Search Is Overhttps://www.wisefoolpress.com/ Jedvaita.com: The Way the World Unfoldshttps://jedvaita.com/ Amazon Jed McKenna Pagehttps://www.amazon.com/-/e/B001JS057A_______________________________________The fool who persists in his folly will become wise.-William Blake_______________________________________
_______________________________________Visit Jedvaita.com and receive a free copy of The Tao of the Large-Breasted Goddess with the Shapely Behind: The Story of the Writing of the Tao Te Ching ( a play in 6 acts), and to receive email updates when new content is made available._______________________________________ WisefoolPress.com: The Search Is Overhttps://www.wisefoolpress.com/ Jedvaita.com: The Way the World Unfoldshttps://jedvaita.com/ Amazon Jed McKenna Pagehttps://www.amazon.com/-/e/B001JS057A_______________________________________The fool who persists in his folly will become wise.-William Blake_______________________________________
So you know how everyone's always like, “Think positive thoughts!” and “Just be happy!”? Well, there's this thing called the Backwards Law that says the more you try to be happy, the less happy you actually are. Crazy, right? But it makes pretty good sense if you don't think about it too much.The Backwards Law says that when you chase after something super hard, you just end up pushing it away. It's like trying to go to sleep. The harder you try, the less you sleep. You're so focused on the idea of sleeping that you're stressing yourself out and not actually sleeping. Pretty ironical, right?But here's the thing: once you know about the Backwards Law, you can kind of use it to your advantage. Instead of trying so hard all the time, you can just loosen up and let things happen naturally. It's like when you stop obsessing over remembering something and suddenly it pops into your head. Maybe the secret is to not stress about making things happen, so then they can happen!This whole Backwards Law thing is from a guy named Alan Watts. He was a philosopher, which means he thought a lot about life and truth I guess. He basically said that when you stop trying so hard and just go with the flow, things work out better. Like, instead of stressing about being happy, just live your life and happiness will come naturally.But what does this mean for us? Well, maybe we should stop stressing so much about being perfect and happy all the time. It's okay to not always be super positive. Sometimes you have a bad hair day, right? We can try letting happiness find us instead of chasing it around all the time. Anyway, next time you find yourself struggling with something, just remember the Backwards Law. Maybe just relax and let things happen. Why paddle so hard when you can just go with the flow, right? You might end up getting what you want without even trying. How awesome would that be? If it works, it's a pretty big deal, and if it doesn't, at least you got to chill out for a while._______________________________________Visit Jedvaita.com and receive a free copy of The Tao of the Large-Breasted Goddess with the Shapely Behind: The Story of the Writing of the Tao Te Ching ( a play in 6 acts), and to receive email updates when new content is made available._______________________________________ WisefoolPress.com: The Search Is Overhttps://www.wisefoolpress.com/ Jedvaita.com: The Way the World Unfoldshttps://jedvaita.com/ Amazon Jed McKenna Pagehttps://www.amazon.com/-/e/B001JS057A_______________________________________The fool who persists in his folly will become wise.-William Blake_______________________________________
_______________________________________Visit Jedvaita.com and receive a free copy of The Tao of the Large-Breasted Goddess with the Shapely Behind: The Story of the Writing of the Tao Te Ching ( a play in 6 acts), and to receive email updates when new content is made available._______________________________________ WisefoolPress.com: The Search Is Overhttps://www.wisefoolpress.com/ Jedvaita.com: The Way the World Unfoldshttps://jedvaita.com/ Amazon Jed McKenna Pagehttps://www.amazon.com/-/e/B001JS057A_______________________________________The fool who persists in his folly will become wise.-William Blake_______________________________________
_______________________________________Visit Jedvaita.com and receive a free copy of The Tao of the Large-Breasted Goddess with the Shapely Behind: The Story of the Writing of the Tao Te Ching ( a play in 6 acts), and to receive email updates when new content is made available._______________________________________ WisefoolPress.com: The Search Is Overhttps://www.wisefoolpress.com/ Jedvaita.com: The Way the World Unfoldshttps://jedvaita.com/ Amazon Jed McKenna Pagehttps://www.amazon.com/-/e/B001JS057A_______________________________________The fool who persists in his folly will become wise.-William Blake_______________________________________
Okay, so this paper by Nick Bostrom is about a super-interesting idea, like, what if we're all living inside a computer simulation? I mean, imagine you're playing a really realistic video game and you're actually in the game but you don't know it! That's what Doctor Nick is talking about. We could all be in a video game right now and not even know it! Crazy, right?Doctor Nick says there are three possibilities. One, maybe humans will go extinct before we get the super-advanced technology to make these simulations. Or two, maybe advanced civilizations could make these simulations but decide not to, like because it's boring or against their rules or something. Or three, maybe we're already in a simulation!Doctor Nick talks about “ancestor simulations,” which means super-advanced people in the future might make simulations of their ancestors (that's us!) to study history or just for fun or just because they can. These simulated people (us!) wouldn't even know they're in a simulation because it's so real. In other words, we might be living in a great big X-Box right now. It's not that crazy!He also says if we are in a simulation there could be tons of other ones just like ours, like even with one inside another inside another, maybe for ever, so the chance of us being in the real, original world would be very small. Like, if there are a million simulation worlds and only one real world, we're probably in one of the simulations.Doctor Nick doesn't say for sure we're in a simulation, he just says it's something to think about. He uses math and logic to make his points, but the main idea is that if future civilizations can, and want to, make simulations, then we're probably in one right now. It's a total mind-bender and makes you question what's real and what's not, I mean like, "Wake up Neo!", right?_______________________________________Visit Jedvaita.com and receive a free copy of The Tao of the Large-Breasted Goddess with the Shapely Behind: The Story of the Writing of the Tao Te Ching ( a play in 6 acts), and to receive email updates when new content is made available._______________________________________ WisefoolPress.com: The Search Is Overhttps://www.wisefoolpress.com/ Jedvaita.com: The Way the World Unfoldshttps://jedvaita.com/ Amazon Jed McKenna Pagehttps://www.amazon.com/-/e/B001JS057A_______________________________________The fool who persists in his folly will become wise.-William Blake_______________________________________
From the film Wings of Desire.Complete text in Transcript._______________________________________Visit Jedvaita.com and receive a free copy of The Tao of the Large-Breasted Goddess with the Shapely Behind: The Story of the Writing of the Tao Te Ching ( a play in 6 acts), and to receive email updates when new content is made available._______________________________________Buy Jed & Co. a beer (or six!)_______________________________________ WisefoolPress.com: The Search Is Overhttps://www.wisefoolpress.com/ Jedvaita.com: The Way the World Unfoldshttps://jedvaita.com/ Amazon Jed McKenna Pagehttps://www.amazon.com/-/e/B001JS057A _______________________________________The fool who persists in his folly will become wise.-William Blake_______________________________________
Prologue from Spiritual Enlightenment: The Damnedest Thing by Jed McKenna and Wisefool Press.Complete text here._______________________________________Visit Jedvaita.com and receive a free copy of The Tao of the Large-Breasted Goddess with the Shapely Behind: The Story of the Writing of the Tao Te Ching ( a play in 6 acts), and to receive email updates when new content is made available._______________________________________Buy Jed & Co. a beer (or six!)_______________________________________ WisefoolPress.com: The Search Is Overhttps://www.wisefoolpress.com/ Jedvaita.com: The Way the World Unfoldshttps://jedvaita.com/ Amazon Jed McKenna Pagehttps://www.amazon.com/-/e/B001JS057A _______________________________________The fool who persists in his folly will become wise.-William Blake_______________________________________
The Mysterious Stranger by Mark Twain. Chapter 11.Full text under Transcript._______________________________________ WisefoolPress.com: The Search Is Overhttps://www.wisefoolpress.com/ Jedvaita.com: The Way the World Unfoldshttps://jedvaita.com/ Amazon Jed McKenna Pagehttps://www.amazon.com/-/e/B001JS057A _______________________________________ The fool who persists in his folly will become wise.-William Blake_______________________________________
The Tao Te Ching by Lao Tzu.Translated by Gia-Fu Feng and Jane English.See complete text in Transcript._______________________________________ WisefoolPress.com: The Search Is Overhttps://www.wisefoolpress.com/ Jedvaita.com: The Way the World Unfoldshttps://jedvaita.com/ Amazon Jed McKenna Pagehttps://www.amazon.com/-/e/B001JS057A _______________________________________ The fool who persists in his folly will become wise.-William Blake_______________________________________
An excerpt from Thinking and Destiny, 1946.Full text here._______________________________________ WisefoolPress.com: The Search Is Overhttps://www.wisefoolpress.com/ Jedvaita.com: The Way the World Unfoldshttps://jedvaita.com/ Amazon Jed McKenna Pagehttps://www.amazon.com/-/e/B001JS057A _______________________________________ The fool who persists in his folly will become wise.-William Blake_______________________________________
Reality – It's all in your head.Full text here._______________________________________ WisefoolPress.com: The Search Is Overhttps://www.wisefoolpress.com/ Jedvaita.com: The Way the World Unfoldshttps://jedvaita.com/ Amazon Jed McKenna Pagehttps://www.amazon.com/-/e/B001JS057A _______________________________________ The fool who persists in his folly will become wise.-William Blake_______________________________________
Shocking but true: students prefer jolt of pain to being made to sit and think.Report from psychologists at Virginia and Harvard Universities tackles the question of why most of us find it so hard to do nothing.Full text here._______________________________________ WisefoolPress.com: The Search Is Overhttps://www.wisefoolpress.com/ Jedvaita.com: The Way the World Unfoldshttps://jedvaita.com/ Amazon Jed McKenna Pagehttps://www.amazon.com/-/e/B001JS057A _______________________________________ The fool who persists in his folly will become wise.-William Blake_______________________________________
The Transcendentalist is a lecture and essay by American writer and thinker Ralph Waldo Emerson. It is one of the essays he wrote while establishing the doctrine of American Transcendentalism. The lecture was read at the Masonic Temple in Boston, Massachusetts in January 1842.Full text here._______________________________________ WisefoolPress.com: The Search Is Overhttps://www.wisefoolpress.com/ Jedvaita.com: The Way the World Unfoldshttps://jedvaita.com/ Amazon Jed McKenna Pagehttps://www.amazon.com/-/e/B001JS057A _______________________________________ The fool who persists in his folly will become wise.-William Blake_______________________________________
"It's like I was playing some kind of game, but the rules don't make any sense to me. They're being made up by all the wrong people. I mean no one makes them up. They seem to make themselves up."-Ben Braddock, The Graduate, 1967 Full text here._______________________________________ WisefoolPress.com: The Search Is Overhttps://www.wisefoolpress.com/ Jedvaita.com: The Way the World Unfoldshttps://jedvaita.com/ Amazon Jed McKenna Pagehttps://www.amazon.com/-/e/B001JS057A _______________________________________ The fool who persists in his folly will become wise.-William Blake_______________________________________
These twenty questions were forwarded to me with a note saying they are generated by A.I. to challenge a nondual teacher. There are no challenging questions, so I tried to make it harder by answering in fifteen minutes. No problem. I also made myself a cup of coffee, checked spelling and punctuation, and rotated my tires in that time.Complete text here._______________________________________ WisefoolPress.com: The Search Is Overhttps://www.wisefoolpress.com/ Jedvaita.com: The Way the World Unfoldshttps://jedvaita.com/ Amazon Jed McKenna Pagehttps://www.amazon.com/-/e/B001JS057A _______________________________________ The fool who persists in his folly will become wise.-William Blake_______________________________________
The Bhagavad Gita, often referred to as the Gita, is a revered scripture of Hindu philosophy and spirituality. Comprising 700 verses, it is a profound dialogue between Lord Krishna and the warrior prince Arjuna, set against the backdrop of the Mahabharata war. At its core, the Gita addresses the moral dilemma faced by Arjuna, torn between his duty as a warrior and the moral implications of fighting his own kin.The Gita delves into various philosophical concepts such as dharma (duty), yoga (spiritual discipline), karma (action and its consequences), and bhakti (devotion). It advocates for selfless action, detachment from the fruits of one's actions, and the path of righteousness.Its teachings transcend religious boundaries and offer timeless wisdom applicable to all aspects of life. The Gita emphasizes the importance of inner peace, self-awareness, and spiritual realization. Its profound insights continue to inspire millions worldwide, serving as a guiding light on the journey towards self-discovery, righteousness, and ultimately, liberation (moksha).Full text here._______________________________________Help us to keep providing free content:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/wisefool_______________________________________ WisefoolPress.com: The Search Is Overhttps://www.wisefoolpress.com/ Jedvaita.com: The Way the World Unfoldshttps://jedvaita.com/ Amazon Jed McKenna Pagehttps://www.amazon.com/-/e/B001JS057A _______________________________________ The fool who persists in his folly will become wise.-William Blake_______________________________________
The GOSPEL of TRUTH by Jed McKenna is the prologue to book three of Jed McKenna's Enlightenment Trilogy; Spiritual Warfare.Think of it as a Christian version of the Bhagavad Gita.Full text here._______________________________________Help us to keep providing free content:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/wisefool_______________________________________ WisefoolPress.com: The Search Is Overhttps://www.wisefoolpress.com/ Jedvaita.com: The Way the World Unfoldshttps://jedvaita.com/ Amazon Jed McKenna Pagehttps://www.amazon.com/-/e/B001JS057A _______________________________________ The fool who persists in his folly will become wise.-William Blake_______________________________________
"Are You Living In A Computer Simulation?" by Nick Bostrom explores the philosophical idea that our reality might be a simulation created by advanced beings. Bostrom argues that if it is possible to simulate consciousness and if future civilizations have the capability to create such simulations, then it is likely that we are living in one. He presents three possibilities: either civilizations don't advance to that point, they choose not to simulate realities, or we are indeed living in a simulation. Bostrom's thought-provoking hypothesis challenges traditional notions of reality, consciousness, and the nature of existence in a computer-simulated world._______________________________________Help us to keep providing free content:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/wisefool_______________________________________ WisefoolPress.com: The Search Is Overhttps://www.wisefoolpress.com/ Jedvaita.com: The Way the World Unfoldshttps://jedvaita.com/ Amazon Jed McKenna Pagehttps://www.amazon.com/-/e/B001JS057A _______________________________________ The fool who persists in his folly will become wise.-William Blake_______________________________________
In his iconic speech "Truth is a Pathless Land," Jiddu Krishnamurti profoundly challenges the conventional notion of seeking truth through established paths or traditions. He posits that truth, being boundless and beyond the confines of any dogma or system, cannot be found through adherence to doctrines or institutions. Krishnamurti invites individuals to embark on a journey of self-discovery, free from the constraints of external authority or belief systems. He emphasizes the necessity of personal inquiry, inner reflection, and an unencumbered mind to truly grasp the essence of truth. His message resonates as a call to liberation and authenticity in the pursuit of understanding reality._______________________________________Help us to keep providing free content:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/wisefool_______________________________________ WisefoolPress.com: The Search Is Overhttps://www.wisefoolpress.com/ Jedvaita.com: The Way the World Unfoldshttps://jedvaita.com/ Amazon Jed McKenna Pagehttps://www.amazon.com/-/e/B001JS057A _______________________________________ The fool who persists in his folly will become wise.-William Blake_______________________________________
The Dhammapada is a timeless collection of sayings attributed to Siddhartha Gautama, known as the Buddha, compiled shortly after his passing around 483 BCE. As one of the most revered texts in Buddhism, it encapsulates the essence of the Buddha's teachings, offering profound insights into the nature of existence and the path to liberation from suffering.Consisting of 423 verses organized into 26 chapters, the Dhammapada covers a wide array of topics, including wisdom, ethics, mindfulness, and the power of one's thoughts. It emphasizes the importance of self-reflection, ethical conduct, and the cultivation of a compassionate heart. The verses are concise yet profound, making them accessible to both novice seekers and seasoned practitioners.One of the central themes of the Dhammapada is the concept of karma, the law of cause and effect, which underscores the importance of one's actions in shaping their present and future circumstances. It teaches that by purifying the mind and living in accordance with moral principles, one can break free from the cycle of suffering and attain enlightenment.The Dhammapada serves as a practical guide for leading a meaningful and virtuous life, encouraging individuals to develop mindfulness, cultivate wisdom, and cultivate a sense of inner peace and contentment. Its timeless wisdom continues to inspire countless individuals on their spiritual journey towards awakening and liberation._______________________________________Help us to keep providing free content:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/wisefool_______________________________________ WisefoolPress.com: The Search Is Overhttps://www.wisefoolpress.com/ Jedvaita.com: The Way the World Unfoldshttps://jedvaita.com/ Amazon Jed McKenna Pagehttps://www.amazon.com/-/e/B001JS057A _______________________________________ The fool who persists in his folly will become wise.-William Blake_______________________________________
The Book of Ecclesiastes, nestled within the Old Testament of the Bible, is a philosophical and reflective work attributed to King Solomon. Comprising 12 chapters, it explores the enigmatic nature of life, its meaning, and the pursuit of wisdom. The narrator, often identified as Solomon himself, contemplates the futility of human endeavors, emphasizing the cyclical and transient nature of existence.The central theme revolves around the phrase "vanity of vanities," highlighting the ephemeral nature of worldly pursuits. Ecclesiastes challenges conventional wisdom, urging readers to seek meaning beyond materialism and hedonism. Solomon grapples with the inevitability of death and the uncertainties of life, encouraging a deeper connection with God.The book is renowned for its poetic and rhythmic prose, incorporating rich metaphors and vivid imagery. It addresses the human condition with stark realism, acknowledging both the joys and sorrows inherent in existence. Despite the apparent nihilism, Ecclesiastes ultimately advocates for a life centered on reverence for God and the acceptance of divine purpose.Ecclesiastes stands as a timeless reflection on the human experience, offering profound insights into the complexities of life and the pursuit of a meaningful existence. Its wisdom resonates across cultures and ages, inviting readers to ponder the transcendent aspects of their journey through the vicissitudes of time._______________________________________Help us to keep providing free content:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/wisefool_______________________________________ WisefoolPress.com: The Search Is Overhttps://www.wisefoolpress.com/ Jedvaita.com: The Way the World Unfoldshttps://jedvaita.com/ Amazon Jed McKenna Pagehttps://www.amazon.com/-/e/B001JS057A _______________________________________ The fool who persists in his folly will become wise.-William Blake_______________________________________
"The Metamorphosis" by Franz Kafka is a surreal and existential novella that tells the story of Gregor Samsa, a young man who wakes up one morning to discover that he has transformed into a giant insect. The narrative follows Gregor's attempts to cope with his new insectoid form and the profound impact it has on his relationships with his family and his own sense of self.As Gregor grapples with his physical metamorphosis, he becomes increasingly isolated from his family, who react with a combination of fear, disgust, and resentment. The story explores themes of alienation, absurdity, and the dehumanizing effects of societal expectations.Throughout the novella, Kafka employs a surreal and symbolic style, using Gregor's transformation as a metaphor for the dehumanizing aspects of modern life. The narrative unfolds in a Kafkaesque fashion, with a dreamlike logic that blurs the boundaries between reality and the absurd."The Metamorphosis" is a compelling exploration of existential themes, portraying the human condition through the lens of an extraordinary and unsettling transformation. Kafka's work has had a lasting impact, influencing literature and philosophy with its exploration of the absurdities of human existence._______________________________________Help us to keep providing free content:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/wisefool_______________________________________ WisefoolPress.com: The Search Is Overhttps://www.wisefoolpress.com/ Jedvaita.com: The Way the World Unfoldshttps://jedvaita.com/ Amazon Jed McKenna Pagehttps://www.amazon.com/-/e/B001JS057A _______________________________________ The fool who persists in his folly will become wise.-William Blake_______________________________________
"Meditations on First Philosophy" by René Descartes is a seminal work in modern Western philosophy, composed of six meditations in which Descartes engages in a process of radical doubt to establish a foundation for certain knowledge. The work begins with Descartes doubting everything he believes to be true, including his senses, memories, and even the existence of an external world. Through this methodical doubt, he arrives at the famous conclusion, "Cogito, ergo sum" or "I think, therefore I am," asserting the certainty of his own existence as a thinking being.Descartes then proceeds to establish the existence of God, arguing that the idea of an infinite and perfect being cannot be generated by a finite and imperfect mind and must, therefore, originate from a higher source. He further argues that God, being benevolent, guarantees the reliability of clear and distinct perceptions.The final meditations reconcile the material and immaterial aspects of reality, laying the groundwork for Cartesian dualism. Descartes' "Meditations" significantly influenced Western philosophy by introducing foundational skepticism and establishing a method of systematic doubt as a means to attain certain and indubitable knowledge._______________________________________Help us to keep providing free content:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/wisefool_______________________________________ WisefoolPress.com: The Search Is Overhttps://www.wisefoolpress.com/ Jedvaita.com: The Way the World Unfoldshttps://jedvaita.com/ Amazon Jed McKenna Pagehttps://www.amazon.com/-/e/B001JS057A _______________________________________ The fool who persists in his folly will become wise.-William Blake_______________________________________
Plato's Cave Allegory is a powerful metaphorical narrative found in Book VII of "The Republic." It illustrates his philosophical ideas about the nature of reality, knowledge, and the journey of enlightenment. In the allegory, prisoners are chained inside a dark cave since birth, facing a wall where shadows are projected by a fire behind them. The prisoners perceive these shadows as the only reality they know.As one prisoner is freed and exposed to the outside world, he undergoes a transformative journey of enlightenment. Initially blinded by the sunlight, he gradually comprehends the true nature of reality and realizes the limitations of the shadows in the cave. Motivated to share this newfound wisdom, the freed prisoner returns to the cave, facing resistance and disbelief from those still confined.Plato uses the Cave Allegory as a metaphor for the human condition, highlighting the difference between the world of appearances (shadows in the cave) and the realm of ultimate reality (the outside world bathed in sunlight). It symbolizes the philosopher's journey toward understanding the Forms or eternal truths. The allegory prompts reflection on the importance of intellectual pursuit, critical thinking, and the challenge of breaking free from societal illusions to attain genuine knowledge and enlightenment._______________________________________Help us to keep providing free content:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/wisefool_______________________________________ WisefoolPress.com: The Search Is Overhttps://www.wisefoolpress.com/ Jedvaita.com: The Way the World Unfoldshttps://jedvaita.com/ Amazon Jed McKenna Pagehttps://www.amazon.com/-/e/B001JS057A _______________________________________ The fool who persists in his folly will become wise.-William Blake_______________________________________
"Walden; or, Life in the Woods" by Henry David Thoreau is a transcendentalist classic that chronicles Thoreau's experiment in simple living. Published in 1854, the book is based on Thoreau's two-year, two-month, and two-day stay near Walden Pond in Concord, Massachusetts. Thoreau reflects on the virtues of a deliberate and purposeful life, urging readers to reconsider their priorities and reassess the true meaning of success.Thoreau's narrative is a blend of philosophy, personal reflection, and naturalistic observation. He advocates for a life of voluntary simplicity, encouraging individuals to strip away unnecessary possessions and distractions to connect with nature and their inner selves. The work explores themes of self-reliance, individualism, and the transcendental relationship between humanity and the natural world.Through poignant prose, Thoreau contemplates the rhythms of nature, the changing seasons, and the interconnectedness of all life. He challenges the notion that material wealth equates to a fulfilling life and encourages a deeper exploration of one's purpose and connection to the universe."Walden" remains a timeless work that inspires readers to reevaluate their lifestyles and cultivate a more intentional and meaningful existence, emphasizing the importance of harmony with nature and the pursuit of inner truths._______________________________________Help us to keep providing free content:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/wisefool_______________________________________ WisefoolPress.com: The Search Is Overhttps://www.wisefoolpress.com/ Jedvaita.com: The Way the World Unfoldshttps://jedvaita.com/ Amazon Jed McKenna Pagehttps://www.amazon.com/-/e/B001JS057A _______________________________________ The fool who persists in his folly will become wise.-William Blake_______________________________________
"Seven Sermons to the Dead," written by Carl Gustav Jung in 1916, is a mystical and esoteric work that represents a departure from his more traditional psychological writings. In this treatise, Jung explores themes of spirituality, mysticism, and the psyche, addressing the dead as a symbolic representation of the unconscious.The sermons are presented as a dialogue between the author and seven deceased figures, including the Gnostic deity Abraxas. Jung delves into the concept of the Pleroma, a divine realm of fullness and unity, contrasting it with the limitations of the material world. The sermons articulate Jung's fascination with Gnostic thought and its relevance to his own psychological theories.Throughout the text, Jung emphasizes the need for individuals to confront and integrate the various aspects of their unconscious, ultimately striving for individuation and spiritual enlightenment. "Seven Sermons to the Dead" serves as a bridge between Jung's early experiences with the unconscious and his later psychological theories, offering readers a glimpse into his evolving understanding of the human psyche and the interconnectedness of the spiritual and psychological realms. The work remains a cryptic yet insightful exploration of the depths of the human mind and spirit._______________________________________Help us to keep providing free content:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/wisefool_______________________________________ WisefoolPress.com: The Search Is Overhttps://www.wisefoolpress.com/ Jedvaita.com: The Way the World Unfoldshttps://jedvaita.com/ Amazon Jed McKenna Pagehttps://www.amazon.com/-/e/B001JS057A _______________________________________ The fool who persists in his folly will become wise.-William Blake_______________________________________
"Song of Myself" by Walt Whitman is a seminal poem in American literature, part of his collection "Leaves of Grass." Published in 1855, this sprawling and celebratory work is a cornerstone of American transcendentalism and free verse poetry. Comprising 52 sections, Whitman's poem is an expansive exploration of the self, nature, and the interconnectedness of all existence.The poem begins with the iconic line "I celebrate myself, and sing myself," setting the tone for Whitman's exuberant embrace of individualism. Through vivid and unapologetic descriptions, Whitman celebrates the diversity of humanity, expressing a deep sense of egalitarianism and inclusivity."Song of Myself" also serves as a philosophical manifesto, addressing themes of democracy, equality, and the spiritual dimensions of human experience. Whitman intertwines the personal with the universal, presenting the self as a reflection of the entire cosmos.The poem is a journey of self-discovery, touching on the physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of existence. Whitman's celebration of the self as inherently connected to the world around it remains a timeless exploration of identity, a testament to the beauty of diversity, and an ode to the inherent dignity of each individual._______________________________________Help us to keep providing free content:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/wisefool_______________________________________ WisefoolPress.com: The Search Is Overhttps://www.wisefoolpress.com/ Jedvaita.com: The Way the World Unfoldshttps://jedvaita.com/ Amazon Jed McKenna Pagehttps://www.amazon.com/-/e/B001JS057A _______________________________________ The fool who persists in his folly will become wise.-William Blake_______________________________________
"The Prophet" by Kahlil Gibran, published in 1923, is a poetic and philosophical work that transcends cultural and religious boundaries. The book is structured as a series of poetic essays delivered by Almustafa, a prophet, as he prepares to depart from the city of Orphalese.Almustafa imparts his wisdom on various aspects of life, including love, marriage, children, work, and freedom. Each essay delves into profound insights, offering timeless and universal truths that resonate with readers across generations. Gibran's language is rich with metaphor and symbolism, creating a lyrical and contemplative atmosphere.The central theme revolves around the balance between the spiritual and material aspects of life, advocating for a harmonious integration of both. Gibran's perspective embraces individual freedom, love as a liberating force, and the cyclical nature of existence."The Prophet" has achieved enduring popularity for its eloquence, depth, and the ability to inspire introspection. It is revered for its exploration of fundamental human experiences and its encouragement of self-discovery. Gibran's work continues to be a source of solace and enlightenment, inviting readers to reflect on the profound aspects of their own lives and the shared human journey._______________________________________Help us to keep providing free content:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/wisefool_______________________________________ WisefoolPress.com: The Search Is Overhttps://www.wisefoolpress.com/ Jedvaita.com: The Way the World Unfoldshttps://jedvaita.com/ Amazon Jed McKenna Pagehttps://www.amazon.com/-/e/B001JS057A _______________________________________ The fool who persists in his folly will become wise.-William Blake_______________________________________
"Song of the Open Road" by Walt Whitman is a poem that captures the spirit of exploration, freedom, and self-discovery. Part of his collection "Leaves of Grass," this work was first published in 1856. Whitman's poem is a celebration of the open road as a metaphor for life's journey, a call to embrace the possibilities of the unknown, and an assertion of individualism.The poem reflects Whitman's democratic and transcendentalist ideals, emphasizing the equality of all individuals and their inherent connection to nature. He extols the virtues of self-reliance, spontaneity, and the joy of wandering freely.Whitman uses vibrant and expansive language to convey a sense of adventure and the limitless potential of the open road. The poem encourages readers to cast off societal constraints, embrace the present moment, and welcome the diverse experiences that life has to offer."Song of the Open Road" remains a timeless ode to the human spirit's quest for meaning and fulfillment. It resonates with those seeking a deeper connection to life, encouraging them to embark on their personal journeys with courage, curiosity, and a sense of wonder._______________________________________Help us to keep providing free content:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/wisefool_______________________________________ WisefoolPress.com: The Search Is Overhttps://www.wisefoolpress.com/ Jedvaita.com: The Way the World Unfoldshttps://jedvaita.com/ Amazon Jed McKenna Pagehttps://www.amazon.com/-/e/B001JS057A _______________________________________ The fool who persists in his folly will become wise.-William Blake_______________________________________
The Ashtavakra Gita is a profound ancient Indian scripture that consists of a dialogue between Sage Ashtavakra and King Janaka. Comprising 20 chapters, this text delves into the essence of Advaita Vedanta, a philosophical school emphasizing non-dualism. The conversation unfolds when King Janaka, despite being a wise and accomplished ruler, seeks spiritual guidance from Sage Ashtavakra. The dialogue explores fundamental aspects of existence, consciousness, and the nature of reality.Ashtavakra imparts teachings on transcending the illusion of duality and recognizing the inherent oneness of the self with the ultimate reality, often referred to as Brahman. The text challenges conventional notions of the world, asserting that true liberation arises from the understanding that the self is beyond the physical body and mind.The Ashtavakra Gita addresses the importance of detachment, inner stillness, and the realization of one's true nature. It guides seekers toward self-realization, urging them to overcome the limitations of the ego and embrace a state of pure awareness. The teachings emphasize the impermanence of the material world and encourage individuals to go beyond the fluctuations of joy and sorrow, ultimately attaining spiritual enlightenment and liberation. The Ashtavakra Gita stands as a timeless guide to profound self-realization and the pursuit of a harmonious and liberated life._______________________________________Help us to keep providing free content:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/wisefool_______________________________________ WisefoolPress.com: The Search Is Overhttps://www.wisefoolpress.com/ Jedvaita.com: The Way the World Unfoldshttps://jedvaita.com/ Amazon Jed McKenna Pagehttps://www.amazon.com/-/e/B001JS057A _______________________________________ The fool who persists in his folly will become wise.-William Blake_______________________________________
(This is adapted from a letter Jed wrote in reply to a self-professed “serious seeker” who made an impassioned offer to turn over his belongings and himself in exchange for being accepted as Jed's student.)Dear William,You don't need to add me to your equation, you need to subtract yourself. Begin by re-examining your assumptions. It's clear from your letter that you consider yourself a serious person, a serious seeker. That's the first assumption you'll want to challenge. You're sure that a serious seeker is what you are and you think I see you that way too, but this is not the case. I know serious when I see it and I know a handpuppet of Maya when I see it. You think you're on top of something, but the only thing to be on top of is Maya, and she's on top of you like a house on a mouse._______________________________________Help us to keep providing free content:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/wisefool_______________________________________ WisefoolPress.com: The Search Is Overhttps://www.wisefoolpress.com/ Jedvaita.com: The Way the World Unfoldshttps://jedvaita.com/ Amazon Jed McKenna Pagehttps://www.amazon.com/-/e/B001JS057A _______________________________________ The fool who persists in his folly will become wise.-William Blake_______________________________________
“Am I an asshole?”Lisa doesn't answer right away, which might be answer enough. We're sitting in Adirondack chairs at the formal firepit, feet up, drinking a good white wine in her case and a peasant red in mine. Her stemware could cut diamonds, mine could pound nails. I started the fire an hour earlier so it would be settled by the time we sat down.“A bit of a curmudgeon, maybe.”“Ouch. That's how mommy calls grandpa an asshole in front of the kids.”_______________________________________Help us to keep providing free content:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/wisefool_______________________________________ WisefoolPress.com: The Search Is Overhttps://www.wisefoolpress.com/ Jedvaita.com: The Way the World Unfoldshttps://jedvaita.com/ Amazon Jed McKenna Pagehttps://www.amazon.com/-/e/B001JS057A _______________________________________ The fool who persists in his folly will become wise.-William Blake_______________________________________
A person swimming in the ocean far from the shore deals exclusively with the world of waves and does not get into trouble no matter how big they are. If the same individual climbs up high on the shore and is facing only the world of solid forms, there is again no problem. It is the waterline, where the two worlds mix and neither of them can be experienced in its own right that presents the difficulties.-Dr. Stanislav Grof, The Adventure of Self-Discovery_______________________________________Help us to keep providing free content:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/wisefool_______________________________________ WisefoolPress.com: The Search Is Overhttps://www.wisefoolpress.com/ Jedvaita.com: The Way the World Unfoldshttps://jedvaita.com/ Amazon Jed McKenna Pagehttps://www.amazon.com/-/e/B001JS057A _______________________________________ The fool who persists in his folly will become wise.-William Blake_______________________________________
In order to get same-day service from Goober, I have to bring multiple items in need of his attention. The only real problem I had this time was a gummed-up chainsaw carburetor, but he would have kept it for a week if I hadn't brought in other items which include a string trimmer that works fine and two chainsaw chains in need of resharpening, even though I do a better job by hand than he does with a grinder. _______________________________________Help us to keep providing free content:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/wisefool_______________________________________ WisefoolPress.com: The Search Is Overhttps://www.wisefoolpress.com/ Jedvaita.com: The Way the World Unfoldshttps://jedvaita.com/ Amazon Jed McKenna Pagehttps://www.amazon.com/-/e/B001JS057A _______________________________________ The fool who persists in his folly will become wise.-William Blake_______________________________________
If I bring Goober one tool to fix, he'll put it aside and tell me to come back in a few days. If I bring him three or four, he'll work on them right away. The difference is my time. If I want something fixed today, I have to bring other stuff for him to work on and wait around while he works on it. If I don't have two or three hours to kill, I just drop one thing off. _______________________________________Help us to keep providing free content:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/wisefool_______________________________________ WisefoolPress.com: The Search Is Overhttps://www.wisefoolpress.com/ Jedvaita.com: The Way the World Unfoldshttps://jedvaita.com/ Amazon Jed McKenna Pagehttps://www.amazon.com/-/e/B001JS057A _______________________________________ The fool who persists in his folly will become wise.-William Blake_______________________________________
“Have you seen see?” Goober asks. See? Sea? C? I have a hard time understanding Goober sometimes, so I just sort of shake my head to encourage him to continue.Goober is my small engine repair guy, and one of the few people I talk to anymore. Everyone seems to call him Goober except his wife who calls him Edwin. I can't call a grown man Goober, so if I have to refer to him at all I use buddy, which is fairly acceptable in these parts, as in “Hey, I think you might be on fire there, buddy.” (Pipe smoker, really happened.)_______________________________________Help us to keep providing free content:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/wisefool_______________________________________ WisefoolPress.com: The Search Is Overhttps://www.wisefoolpress.com/ Jedvaita.com: The Way the World Unfoldshttps://jedvaita.com/ Amazon Jed McKenna Pagehttps://www.amazon.com/-/e/B001JS057A _______________________________________ The fool who persists in his folly will become wise.-William Blake_______________________________________
What do you know? Really. What, with absolute certainty, do you know? Put aside all opinions, beliefs and theories for a moment and address this one simple question: What do you know for sure? Or, as Thoreau put it:“Let us settle ourselves, and work and wedge our feet downward through the mud and slush of opinion, and prejudice, and tradition, and delusion, and appearance, that alluvion which covers the globe… through church and state, through poetry and philosophy and religion, till we come to a hard bottom and rocks in place, which we can call reality, and say, This is, and no mistake; and then begin…”_______________________________________Help us to keep providing free content:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/wisefool_______________________________________ WisefoolPress.com: The Search Is Overhttps://www.wisefoolpress.com/ Jedvaita.com: The Way the World Unfoldshttps://jedvaita.com/ Amazon Jed McKenna Pagehttps://www.amazon.com/-/e/B001JS057A _______________________________________ The fool who persists in his folly will become wise.-William Blake_______________________________________
At the beginning of The Matrix, Thomas Anderson is roughly where you are now; still a juvenile, still asleep in the matrix/dreamstate, but struggling with doubt. For Neo, it's a splinter in the brain. For you, it's somewhere between an itch and an icepick. Maybe you'll learn to live with it, or maybe it will propel you into a different paradigm of being.Or maybe you'll get hit by a cab or choke on a chicken wing. As Al Pacino teaches us, you can get killed walking your doggie._______________________________________Help us to keep providing free content:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/wisefool_______________________________________ WisefoolPress.com: The Search Is Overhttps://www.wisefoolpress.com/ Jedvaita.com: The Way the World Unfoldshttps://jedvaita.com/ Amazon Jed McKenna Pagehttps://www.amazon.com/-/e/B001JS057A _______________________________________ The fool who persists in his folly will become wise.-William Blake_______________________________________
After being redpilled by Morpheus and waking up aboard the Nebuchadnezzar, Neo and the audience believe that he is now out of the simulation and in the real world, but he's not.At the end of the second movie, Neo uses his matrix powers outside the matrix, meaning he's either a real-world superman, or the real world isn't real. The common interpretation is the former, the correct one is the latter. Neo never got out. Everything in The Matrix is in the matrix._______________________________________Help us to keep providing free content:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/wisefool_______________________________________ WisefoolPress.com: The Search Is Overhttps://www.wisefoolpress.com/ Jedvaita.com: The Way the World Unfoldshttps://jedvaita.com/ Amazon Jed McKenna Pagehttps://www.amazon.com/-/e/B001JS057A _______________________________________ The fool who persists in his folly will become wise.-William Blake_______________________________________
Dear Imagined Reader,A recent email from one of my human-interface facilitators ended on this note: “P.S. You're getting a lot of questions about current events.”To which I now reply that current events are, in the context of awakening in or from the dreamstate, completely irrelevant, and the most important thing you can do is not get caught up in them. Waking up is all about focus. If you start descending into petty drama – and all drama is petty – then you will lose coherence and your journey will stall._______________________________________Help us to keep providing free content:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/wisefool_______________________________________ WisefoolPress.com: The Search Is Overhttps://www.wisefoolpress.com/ Jedvaita.com: The Way the World Unfoldshttps://jedvaita.com/ Amazon Jed McKenna Pagehttps://www.amazon.com/-/e/B001JS057A _______________________________________ The fool who persists in his folly will become wise.-William Blake_______________________________________
I like it here in my little niche. (Is it not totally mindblowing that, even in the so-called age of communications, truth remains a small and sparsely populated niche? Indeed, Maya is the greatest wonder.) I am reminded of how much I like my little niche anytime I poke my little head out and look around. It's scary out there in the general population of Maya's Spiritual Asylum. I almost always wear blinders that protect me from beholding the broader spiritual environment of happily but hopelessly lost souls, but I still take in more than I care to. I see where I am and where you probably are, but what I almost never see is what lies on the outskirts of nonduality and beyond._______________________________________Help us to keep providing free content:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/wisefool_______________________________________ WisefoolPress.com: The Search Is Overhttps://www.wisefoolpress.com/ Jedvaita.com: The Way the World Unfoldshttps://jedvaita.com/ Amazon Jed McKenna Pagehttps://www.amazon.com/-/e/B001JS057A _______________________________________ The fool who persists in his folly will become wise.-William Blake_______________________________________
Kamiel came prepared. He carries a bulging, well-worn, triple rubber-banded notebook full of thoughts, ideas, and questions accumulated during several years of reading spiritual books, attending spiritual gatherings, and participating in spiritual Internet discussion groups. _______________________________________Help us to keep providing free content:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/wisefool_______________________________________ WisefoolPress.com: The Search Is Overhttps://www.wisefoolpress.com/ Jedvaita.com: The Way the World Unfoldshttps://jedvaita.com/ Amazon Jed McKenna Pagehttps://www.amazon.com/-/e/B001JS057A _______________________________________ The fool who persists in his folly will become wise.-William Blake_______________________________________
The last time I looked — probably in 2004 when What the Bleep Do We Know? came out — there was a lot of interest in manifestation by a variety of names; law of attraction, power of prayer, creative visualization, positive thinking, mind over matter, affirmations, wishcraft, and so on._______________________________________Help us to keep providing free content:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/wisefool_______________________________________ WisefoolPress.com: The Search Is Overhttps://www.wisefoolpress.com/ Jedvaita.com: The Way the World Unfoldshttps://jedvaita.com/ Amazon Jed McKenna Pagehttps://www.amazon.com/-/e/B001JS057A _______________________________________ The fool who persists in his folly will become wise.-William Blake_______________________________________
No man is a prophet in his own country. That line keeps running through my mind as I sit over lunch with my sister who I haven't seen in several years. These days I'm the enlightened guy, but to her I'm just the bratty kid who couldn't make eye contact when she wore a bikini. _______________________________________Help us to keep providing free content:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/wisefool_______________________________________ WisefoolPress.com: The Search Is Overhttps://www.wisefoolpress.com/ Jedvaita.com: The Way the World Unfoldshttps://jedvaita.com/ Amazon Jed McKenna Pagehttps://www.amazon.com/-/e/B001JS057A _______________________________________ The fool who persists in his folly will become wise.-William Blake_______________________________________
"The Transcendentalist" by Ralph Waldo Emerson, published in 1842, is a seminal essay that captures the essence of Transcendentalism, a philosophical and literary movement of the 19th century in the United States. Emerson, a key figure in the Transcendentalist movement, articulates the core principles of this philosophy, emphasizing the inherent goodness of people and nature, and the belief in the individual's ability to connect with a higher spiritual reality.Emerson explores the concept of self-reliance, urging individuals to trust their own instincts and intuition rather than conforming to societal expectations. He advocates for a direct, personal experience of the divine, emphasizing the importance of individual intuition and the inherent unity of all things in nature. Emerson celebrates the idea that each person has a unique relationship with the divine and encourages the pursuit of personal truth."The Transcendentalist" serves as a manifesto for a movement that sought to break free from traditional religious and societal constraints, fostering a deeper connection between individuals and the spiritual essence of the universe. Emerson's eloquent prose and visionary ideas continue to inspire readers, making "The Transcendentalist" a timeless exploration of the human spirit's quest for higher understanding and connection with the divine._______________________________________Help us to keep providing free content:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/wisefool_______________________________________ WisefoolPress.com: The Search Is Overhttps://www.wisefoolpress.com/ Jedvaita.com: The Way the World Unfoldshttps://jedvaita.com/ Amazon Jed McKenna Pagehttps://www.amazon.com/-/e/B001JS057A _______________________________________ The fool who persists in his folly will become wise.-William Blake_______________________________________
Being critical of Buddhism isn't easy. Buddhism is the most likable of the major religions, and Buddhists are the perennial good guys of modern spirituality. Beautiful traditions, lovely architecture, inspiring statuary, ancient history, the Dalai Lama; what's not to like? Everything about Buddhism is just so — nice. No fatwahs or jihads, no inquisitions or crusades, no terrorists or pederasts, just nice people being nice. In fact, Buddhism means niceness. Niceism. _______________________________________Help us to keep providing free content:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/wisefool_______________________________________ WisefoolPress.com: The Search Is Overhttps://www.wisefoolpress.com/ Jedvaita.com: The Way the World Unfoldshttps://jedvaita.com/ Amazon Jed McKenna Pagehttps://www.amazon.com/-/e/B001JS057A _______________________________________ The fool who persists in his folly will become wise.-William Blake_______________________________________