Help Build Integral Spiritual Centerhttp://multiplex.integralinstitute.org/Public/cs/forums/177/ShowForum.aspxISC is in its infancy, a beautiful vision at its very beginning. Share with us all that you believe We could become.... ~Please enter this forum consciously. May the next words out of your mouth (and into this forum) be from your Highest Self as you understand it.en-USCommunityServer 2.0 (Build: 60217.2664)Re: Help us build ISChttp://multiplex.integralinstitute.org/Public/cs/forums/thread/29937.aspxSat, 13 Oct 2024 18:28:23 GMTee28e699-b6ce-41f9-9b68-f4b3d2b14a5b:29937aprins0http://multiplex.integralinstitute.org/Public/cs/forums/thread/29937.aspxhttp://multiplex.integralinstitute.org/Public/cs/forums/commentrss.aspx?SectionID=177&PostID=29937

Hello,

In order to work together to make ISC a truly vibrant community of learners and teachers I have a couple of questions. What I would like to know is: are there also people on ISC from other places than  the USA? I am living in the Netherlands and I would like to know if there would be opportunities to have seminars about ISC in Europe. I am interested in hosting such a seminar to create more awareness for ISC in the Netherlands. If you have any suggestions or more information I would be very pleased.

Warm greetings, Annemieke

Re: Help us build ISChttp://multiplex.integralinstitute.org/Public/cs/forums/thread/17144.aspxMon, 25 Dec 2024 06:02:45 GMTee28e699-b6ce-41f9-9b68-f4b3d2b14a5b:17144stevebatte0http://multiplex.integralinstitute.org/Public/cs/forums/thread/17144.aspxhttp://multiplex.integralinstitute.org/Public/cs/forums/commentrss.aspx?SectionID=177&PostID=17144John (I'm assuming everyone here is okay with first names)

I'd very much like to hear about your approach to IS, as it applies to a couple of previous posts in this forum. Are you still active in the Mormon Church? If so, how do you think you would react if someone came to your place of worship and offered to help you merge your tradition and institution with Islam, Judaism, Roman and Eastern Orthodox Catholicism, etc?

I haven't made it all the way thru KW's IS yet. But I have to admit that I came to the conclusion years ago that organized religions (at least every one that I know of, and I've studied, though not practiced, most of the majors) are getting in the way of our spiritual growth rather than aiding it, because they are more focused on maintaining their own institutions, traditions, and (if I may also be a bit confrontational) paychecks.

Don't get me wrong, I seriously, sadly miss the last church (Congregational) that I belonged to. It was a warm and loving community, and I had a wonderful relationship with the ministers and many in the congregation. In some ways, my life is poorer without that. But I couldn't continue pretending to believe in the myth of the deity of Christ, and his crucifixion and resurrection as "the way" to salvation.

Nor do I see a reason to limit my spiritual belief and practice to the teachings of Buddha or Mohammed or Ken Wilber. There is truth and richness in all of these traditions. To stick to just one is like saying I'll only eat yellow vegetables, or I'll only read novels by Steinbeck, or I'll only submit to medical practices approved by the AMA. What a small, sad (and probably unhealthy) life that would be.
Re: Help us build ISChttp://multiplex.integralinstitute.org/Public/cs/forums/thread/16760.aspxMon, 18 Dec 2024 07:15:13 GMTee28e699-b6ce-41f9-9b68-f4b3d2b14a5b:16760perera0http://multiplex.integralinstitute.org/Public/cs/forums/thread/16760.aspxhttp://multiplex.integralinstitute.org/Public/cs/forums/commentrss.aspx?SectionID=177&PostID=16760

hi Jongdar,

Wow, that is quite an idea. Not sure which teacher at ISC would actually have the time or agree but certainly, a fun thought. I wish I could make that happen!

 

Re: Help us build ISChttp://multiplex.integralinstitute.org/Public/cs/forums/thread/16740.aspxSun, 17 Dec 2024 21:25:52 GMTee28e699-b6ce-41f9-9b68-f4b3d2b14a5b:16740jongdar0http://multiplex.integralinstitute.org/Public/cs/forums/thread/16740.aspxhttp://multiplex.integralinstitute.org/Public/cs/forums/commentrss.aspx?SectionID=177&PostID=16740It would be great to see a group of teachers and sempai's take to the road, visiting different areas of the country in a traveling gospel style tent meeting format...tent,folding chairs,hat passing for funds...the whole bit! different addepts could drive the bus,ten-wheeler or whatever and REALLY address the roots that are willing and available,but not as financially able as some.Re: Help us build ISChttp://multiplex.integralinstitute.org/Public/cs/forums/thread/16739.aspxSun, 17 Dec 2024 21:18:02 GMTee28e699-b6ce-41f9-9b68-f4b3d2b14a5b:16739jongdar0http://multiplex.integralinstitute.org/Public/cs/forums/thread/16739.aspxhttp://multiplex.integralinstitute.org/Public/cs/forums/commentrss.aspx?SectionID=177&PostID=16739

hi vairachna,

  ...perhaps the  secret and hidden teachings are for the most part,perspectives that are beyond our present abilities to assimilate?

Re: Help us build ISChttp://multiplex.integralinstitute.org/Public/cs/forums/thread/16718.aspxSun, 17 Dec 2024 12:08:35 GMTee28e699-b6ce-41f9-9b68-f4b3d2b14a5b:16718vairachna0http://multiplex.integralinstitute.org/Public/cs/forums/thread/16718.aspxhttp://multiplex.integralinstitute.org/Public/cs/forums/commentrss.aspx?SectionID=177&PostID=16718I have to agree with your confrontational nature, but not what frustrates you. What bothers me is that they don't seem to delve into people's minds. They try to set up a stage, for people to be players, that is much too passive to me. Perhaps a better approach would be to list the different traditions more clearly for the different teachers they suggest you leap from the integral framework for graduated learning. I have always taken a backward approach and like to know the end result and fill in the information later if it is truly needed. Where are the aethiest teachers? Spirituality doesn't always escape the people who don't believe in God. Even Solipsists have the ability to be compelled to help the world in it's understanding of reality. Would it be possible to have surveys that could best show people where they stand and who could best help each individual on a path that can be offered by the institute? Also, as my last piece of advice, to improve ISC and perhaps II forums would be to have an area where people could, anonymously if needed, post information that is generally withheld from the public. As I have met people along my short path in life towards transcendence, the knowledge that I felt would best benefit me were always... secret and forbidden from outsiders. That is what I think II could do the best. Present a platform for these guarded ideas to be released at least to the paying members. Sorry, I am crazy and everyone has to put up with someone like at some point in their lives even for a brief while.Re: Help us build ISChttp://multiplex.integralinstitute.org/Public/cs/forums/thread/16470.aspxWed, 13 Dec 2024 23:16:04 GMTee28e699-b6ce-41f9-9b68-f4b3d2b14a5b:16470ProdigalSol0http://multiplex.integralinstitute.org/Public/cs/forums/thread/16470.aspxhttp://multiplex.integralinstitute.org/Public/cs/forums/commentrss.aspx?SectionID=177&PostID=16470I am sorry to possibly look confrontational, but there were two things in this thread that didn't click so well to me. Tell me if I took things out of context but...

"The Integral Spirituality community should take an active role in unifying all factions of varying spiritual communities for the purpose of a true Integral approach."

I'm terrible at memorizing things but there is that famous quote by Gautama Buddha that basically says there are ten thousand roads to enlightenment/heaven/whatever you wanna call it. While fostering an understanding between as many religions as are open to the idea is of course a fantastic idea, I'm not sure that its a good idea to actually try and find some one size fits all 'true integral' approach to spirituality.

By its own nature spirituality is about as subjective as it gets, with people who experience peak spiritual moments coming back with radically different ideas of what it 'meant', even if the actual experience was essentially the same. I personally don't find buddhism to be at all my cup of tea, but others are finding what they feel is exactly what they need to advance themselves towards their spiritual goals in the Buddha's teachings. Trying to Unify all factions, I think, is something that would probably turn alot of people off. This isn't like Ken Wilber's spectrum of consciousness where each psychological theory explains a different part of the human condition better than others and they fit all together nicely... this is a undulating sea of billions of different opinions and paths... trying to boil them down to one approach is... lunacy (in my opinion).

"I like mconva's idea of approaching churches and showing them how to integrate all religions, psychology and philosophy to shift them out of their pre-rational, mythical state."

I read mcnova's post and I'm not sure that this is really what he was saying... and maybe you just didn't communicate what you really wanted to say in a way that I understand... but I think heads of churches would appreciate being 'shown' how to integrate all religions... etc about as much as I used to appreciate being told I am going to hell in a handbasket when walking by a sidewalk crackpot preacher, heheh.

However I do see how certain PRACTICES that can seamlessly fit within most belief systems could be offered to many places of worship as ways that pretty much all of us can deepen our connection to the divine. I think there are a number of practices in all mainstream religions that aren't very widespread that would be something that many people would be open to... as long as it was presented from someone they liked (aka someone with spiritual beliefs similar to theirs) and and shown to be something that other people like them use to bring them deeper satisfaction in life. If the goal is to really try and spread practices and ideals that follow along the Integral ideals... it would seem to me that the best way to do that would be in the spirit of "Hey, check this out... other people like you have tried it and they have liked what they got out of it" instead of "You know... if you just look at it this way instead of how you do now you can escape your 'pre-rational, mythical state'".
Re: Help us build ISChttp://multiplex.integralinstitute.org/Public/cs/forums/thread/4333.aspxTue, 15 Aug 2024 04:08:42 GMTee28e699-b6ce-41f9-9b68-f4b3d2b14a5b:433312358130http://multiplex.integralinstitute.org/Public/cs/forums/thread/4333.aspxhttp://multiplex.integralinstitute.org/Public/cs/forums/commentrss.aspx?SectionID=177&PostID=4333

Nice "meeting" all of you.  Thanks for sharing your backgrounds and experiences, wishes and needs.

If it's possible, I'd like to see a reference section for those of us not familiar with the terms used in many spiritual schools and some of Ken's works.  Knowing this would be HUGE to set up, could it be done in a Wikipedia kind of way?  II could oversee it, but practitioners could add and update definitions.

Not trying to create extra work for you all...

Re: Help us build ISChttp://multiplex.integralinstitute.org/Public/cs/forums/thread/4295.aspxMon, 14 Aug 2024 14:26:54 GMTee28e699-b6ce-41f9-9b68-f4b3d2b14a5b:4295colinwolf0http://multiplex.integralinstitute.org/Public/cs/forums/thread/4295.aspxhttp://multiplex.integralinstitute.org/Public/cs/forums/commentrss.aspx?SectionID=177&PostID=4295

It's very encouraging to hear that ISC is "very serious about a campus outreach program."  I am hoping that, since Ken felt it was important enough to include that sentiment in the opening address at the first ISC meeting, brainstorming and movement planning is underway.  I don't have any experience (yet) in campus outreach or movement building, per se; however, I would love to be involved somehow. 

It would be great to hear some of what's happening with ISC: ideas, action plans, etc.

Thanks!

Colin

Re: Help us build ISChttp://multiplex.integralinstitute.org/Public/cs/forums/thread/4261.aspxSun, 13 Aug 2024 18:58:04 GMTee28e699-b6ce-41f9-9b68-f4b3d2b14a5b:4261perera0http://multiplex.integralinstitute.org/Public/cs/forums/thread/4261.aspxhttp://multiplex.integralinstitute.org/Public/cs/forums/commentrss.aspx?SectionID=177&PostID=4261

John,

How wonderful for you to play a role in the ISC forums. Thanks so much! As you can see, some of our readers are already asking you for your advice. 

You presense is tremendously valued. We trust you fully to take it anyway you see appropriate Smile [:)]

Smiles!

Re: Help us build ISChttp://multiplex.integralinstitute.org/Public/cs/forums/thread/4260.aspxSun, 13 Aug 2024 18:54:55 GMTee28e699-b6ce-41f9-9b68-f4b3d2b14a5b:4260perera0http://multiplex.integralinstitute.org/Public/cs/forums/thread/4260.aspxhttp://multiplex.integralinstitute.org/Public/cs/forums/commentrss.aspx?SectionID=177&PostID=4260

Hi Colinwolf,

Your thoughts reflect ours very much. We are very serious about a campus outreach program. Maybe you have ideas to share!

the talk you are talking about is here in the Media section under the ISC Inaugural Event. Ken's talk is presented in 3 parts.

Smiles!

 

Re: Help us build ISChttp://multiplex.integralinstitute.org/Public/cs/forums/thread/4081.aspxFri, 11 Aug 2024 15:20:53 GMTee28e699-b6ce-41f9-9b68-f4b3d2b14a5b:4081colinwolf0http://multiplex.integralinstitute.org/Public/cs/forums/thread/4081.aspxhttp://multiplex.integralinstitute.org/Public/cs/forums/commentrss.aspx?SectionID=177&PostID=4081In the video posted on Integral Naked from the first gathering for Integral Spiritual Center in which Ken welcomes the participants (can someone provide a link? I haven't been able to locate it again), he talks about a research survey that showed that 90% of college juniors (?) stated that spirituality was very important to them; however, most of them felt they couldn't talk to their peers about it.  Essentially, they are in the closet about their spiritual lives while embedded in the orange/green world of academia.  Ken stated that this is a catastrophe, and I wholeheartedly agree.  He also mentioned the dire need for some kind of outreach.  My question: Is ISC thinking about this at all at this early stage in its development?  The youth are hungry, and, currently, the most prevalent outreach is Evangelical Christian.  Many youth are being enticed into a blue meme mythic belief system with rock music, multimedia services and other "cool" offerings that are genius, in terms of marketing and attracting new followers.  The problem is that they are also perpetuating the discriminatory and narcissistic ideology that is rampant in that realm now: gays are sick, they are the "chosen" ones, God is a vengeful father figure, etc.  I know a movement takes years to develop, but the youth in our country are in serious need of some higher meme guidance.  I am currently a Post-Bac student at Portland State University, and I am planning on attending graduate school elsewhere.  I would be SO willing and eager to start the outreach that Ken talked about; though, I definitely would want the support and guidance of a larger like-minded group such as ISC.  Thoughts?Re: Help us build ISChttp://multiplex.integralinstitute.org/Public/cs/forums/thread/1803.aspxMon, 24 Jul 2024 10:20:57 GMTee28e699-b6ce-41f9-9b68-f4b3d2b14a5b:1803marushia0http://multiplex.integralinstitute.org/Public/cs/forums/thread/1803.aspxhttp://multiplex.integralinstitute.org/Public/cs/forums/commentrss.aspx?SectionID=177&PostID=1803

Hello -

I was reading your post and felt drawn to reply. I am a new student of Buddhism and have yet to decide which path to take. I have established that my goal is Dharma (maybe as I learn I can grasp seeking "nothingness" but at this point on my journey I am looking for more enlightenment). Other than that I have looked into SGI, Zen, and a number of websites for different lineages. I study the Dhammapada and attempt to bring the teachings into my meditation.

I am especially in need of a teacher in the art of meditation. I was injured 7 years ago and it caused a severe chronic pain & nervous system disorder. I am currently tapering off of my medications for pain relief and spasticity and I feel lucky that I have this wonderful opportunity to use my physical suffering as a vehicle for spiritual empowerment. I believe my compassion for and understanding of fellow beings will be greatly magnified by this incline in my spiritual path. Big Smile [:D]

If at all possible I will appreciate any guidance you can provide.

Re: Help us build ISChttp://multiplex.integralinstitute.org/Public/cs/forums/thread/1753.aspxSat, 22 Jul 2024 13:26:50 GMTee28e699-b6ce-41f9-9b68-f4b3d2b14a5b:1753jtk0http://multiplex.integralinstitute.org/Public/cs/forums/thread/1753.aspxhttp://multiplex.integralinstitute.org/Public/cs/forums/commentrss.aspx?SectionID=177&PostID=1753

Hi Nomali,

As a teacher at ISC, it occurs to me that there may be interest in teachers being available to chat about integral spirituality and their approach to it. I would be happy to do that.  Let me know if there is a preferred way to throw my hat in the conversation ring in that regard.

John Kesler

Re: Help us build ISChttp://multiplex.integralinstitute.org/Public/cs/forums/thread/1533.aspxTue, 18 Jul 2024 00:55:05 GMTee28e699-b6ce-41f9-9b68-f4b3d2b14a5b:1533ats0http://multiplex.integralinstitute.org/Public/cs/forums/thread/1533.aspxhttp://multiplex.integralinstitute.org/Public/cs/forums/commentrss.aspx?SectionID=177&PostID=1533

I like mcnova's idea of approaching churches and showing them how to integrate all religions, psychology and philosophy to shift them out of their pre-rational, mythical state.

I would like to see each individual teacher write a synopsis of the process, from their religion's point of view.  I live in Hawaii where there are many Buddhist temples.  For example, I would like to approach a Zen temple with a write-up from Genpo Roshi.  Hopefully, this will soften barriers and allow church and temple leaders to look further into ISC.  I think our greatest impact will be in shifting existing religions, although starting an Integral Spiritual Center in Hawaii would be sweet :)

I would like to see a concentrated effort by the teachers on working on strategies to start this shift in each of their individual religions towards an integral practice, including their foreign roots, if they have one.  A comprehensive game plan would be awesome.