The universe exists on many planes of reality. On one hand, it’s entirely empty space because all matter is made up of empty space. On the other hand, there is no empty space because energy and quantum fields pervade the entire universe. And then there is the illusion that there is stuff and there is space, and the things appear separate and independent from one another.

Any three of these interpretations are going to be incomplete and misleading. Only when we see the whole does some semblance of truth start to emerge. Our existence is no different.

We are the universe, we don’t exist at all the way we appear. And, we think we are separate and independent.

So on one hand, we exist as differentiated consciousness. On the other hand, we exist as universal consciousness. Both are true. But both are incomplete pictures.

To understand the universe, or ourselves, on the level of mind will always be a reductionist approach — limited, incomplete, and false. True understanding comes from sensing, not labeling.

When we popped into existence at birth, the universe had already been humming along for eternity. We are the mere temporary expressions of this magnificent universe. Our illusory individuality is very real and necessary for our survival and for the universe to keep unfolding like an ever-blossoming lotus flower. Our separate sense of self created by the ego, is simultaneously real, limited, and nonreal.

Oneness is the deeper truth, but still incomplete. When the logical mind merges with our expansive heart, a clearer picture of our wholeness emerges. We must honor these bodies and minds we temporarily preside over, but we are also the entire universe, the creation and the creator. Only when we open both eyes can we start to see clearly. 

There are four common mistakes in our thinking that nearly all of us make and that contribute to our suffering. These misguided thoughts that stem from false beliefs cause us to inadvertently harm ourselves, our communities, and our planet. More on this in my podcast.

When oneness guides our individuality, and when our egos recognize our oneness, only then can our lives blossom like the lotus flower. Losing sight of either eliminates our depth of perception, leading us to live shallow and meaningless lives.

When we live purely as individuals we feel alone, we have a fearful ego, and we suffer the stresses and pressures of modern life. In my latest video, I cover the whole topic of stress and how we can stay stress-free in stressful situations.

So without neglecting either reality, by staying present and alert to all of the layers of meaning at once — something which cannot be understood by the mind’s one-word-at-a-time analysis — only then can we develop the deepest understanding, beyond words, of who we truly are. Only then can we become our true self — a being of love and peace. 

Infinity cannot be reduced, interpreted or dissected. No label can capture it. It can only be felt and sensed. This is awakening to reality as it is. Start to pay attention to the energy all around you, the empty space that pervades you, the silence underlying sounds, and the stillness always present within your consciousness that is able to perceive the constant change all around you. This is how we can remain at peace no matter what the superficial illusion of matter appears to be doing at any given moment.

Much love,
Todd

P.S. In my latest podcast episode, I talk about what to do when we have a low day, why we have low days, and what we can do to prevent them from happening in the first place.