A hallmark of spiritual development is often described as connection
With connection comes caring about and caring for
Without connection comes separation and destruction
With separation from nature comes indifference to other life
And environmental destruction
With separation from other humans comes nationalism, racism, tribalism, sexism, ageism etc.
And loss of humanity, slavery and genocide
As separation increases within us
Egoistic becomes narcistic becomes sociopathic becomes psychopathic
Everything / everyone becomes a commodity; to be exploited for personal gain; ours for the taking
With each step of separation, the shadow rises within
Evil increasingly manifests and is projected and reflected around us
Many social structures promote separation: exclusive family, profession, “rabid” fan, special club, ideology, political party, spiritual group, wealth and cults
All fostering superiority, elitism and privilege
Separation arises from trauma, the isolation of victimhood, the pain, suffering, anger and withdrawal
Knowing we have also caused trauma we separate from parts of ourselves
Paradoxically, individuation, boundaries and authenticity are essential for connection
Without them enmeshment, enabling, co-dependency and entrapment
And further separation
The road to authenticity parallels the road to connection
The heartpath magic of engaging with all life