There was an article by V. Rt. Rev. Lewis Bostwick titled “Seniority to Spirit,” that describes my dilemma. However, I have recently come to terms with this part, as I have realized that I am an extremely undeveloped creature, so it is to my benefit to have help to reach higher levels and without the help, I am completely lost on my own. I tried it and I am empty, as there is nothing there. So when I listen, I become full or filled up, as it’s hard to explain.

So in short, I’m not sure what my question is, as I am still confused about it all. I am assuming that you would say consciousness is consciousness and that’s all there is, but why does it seem as tho the higher is not me and the lower is me? I cannot seem to be what the higher tells me that I am, as there seems to be the two. I guess that what you were talking about in the two souls Q&A on jiva and Atman. Can the two ever be ONE in our state of being both a physical and spiritual entity? So, is this just the way it is for us and the way it will always be? Can anyone with a material body have the two as ONE? I don’t think we could survive physically, could we? Or maybe my level is just so low, I cannot conceive of this and it might be possible? Is this what is called enlightenment? But don’t the enlightened still have to deal with this dual soul? I don’t know…. just thought I would ask.

I was wondering if you have any thoughts on the benefits of using an image for meditation versus using the sound of a mantra.

In your answer yesterday you wrote: ‘Pure consciousness is the non-physical source of all material creation, and that is what our soul is.’ I am really confused. I thought our soul was a compilation of our life’s experiences and memories, and that that was why there is sometimes a need for healing. Could you please explain where I have made a mistake.

Please would you tell me where our spirits—–or souls—–were before the world began, and where they will go if the world should end? I cannot find an answer to this anywhere and would appreciate your answer very much.

I have recently begun the practice of trataka meditations. It seems most powerful. I have read some things warning that the advanced forms are “dangerous” without the guidance of a teacher or guru. In the past couple of years, I have experienced what I can only describe as a rapid vertical growth trajectory. Given my past experience with sudden and extreme kundialini, I’m wondering what is meant by “dangerous” and if I should be concerned about this. While this whole opening and re-awakening thing is still pretty amazing, I don’t want to trigger another episode of the same confused, uncharacteristic and unexplainable personality behavior. Thanks for your advice.