In this episode, Jay Forest explores what it means to be “spiritual but not religious.” He contrasts religion’s institutional authority and conformity with spirituality’s personal experience of divine or cosmic unity, appealing to those who seek meaning beyond dogma. Identifying as a philosopher, a pursuer of wisdom, Jay roams freely among wisdom traditions—Daoism, Stoicism, Deism, […]
002: Spiritual but Not Religious Read Post »
In this opening episode, In Pursuit of Wisdom, we explore what it truly means to be wise. From the silent observation of the “wise old owl” to the timeless insights of Socrates, Lao Tzu, Confucius, and others, the episode reflects on wisdom as both mystery and pursuit—a journey that shapes how we see ourselves and
001: In Pursuit of Wisdom Read Post »
Deism is “belief in the existence of a supreme being, specifically of a creator who does not intervene in the universe” (Oxford English Dictionary). Theism is “belief in the existence of a god or gods, especially belief in one god as creator of the universe, intervening in it and sustaining a personal relation to his
Deism or Theism? Why God’s Intervention Defines the Divide Read Post »
Meditation Instructions Here is my contemplative guide to practicing mindfulness meditation (Zen/Vipassana). I. Preparation Posture: Sit upright yet relaxed, either on a cushion or chair. Hands: Hands in the lap, the right hand rests atop the left, palms facing upward. Thumbs may gently touch, forming a soft oval. Eyes: Gently close them to turn attention
Meditation Instructions Read Post »
“I have just three things to teach: simplicity, patience, compassion. These three are your greatest treasures.” – Laozi Simplicity is hard. We complicate things by adding concepts to experience, judgments to concepts, and emotions to judgments. Then we are stressed, anxious, angry, sad, and depressed. Daoism teaches us to return to the now, the here,
The Three Treasures of Daoism Read Post »
Paul Kurtz said, “Briefly stated, a skeptic is one who is willing to question any claim to truth, asking for clarity in definition, consistency in logic, and adequacy of evidence.” (1) I am a skeptic; I do not believe what I lack good reasons to believe. Because I am willing to question any belief I
I Am a Skeptic, Are You? Read Post »
