Zzenn Loren's Blog, page 7

Avoiding the Trap of Dogmatic Skepticism: Identification vs Usefulness

Humans enjoy psychological boxes and will fight for their ideas. Whether religion, philosophy, or politics, our territorial natures are not limited to the physical. People will fight for their ideas no matter how novel and democratic they are. Even different versions of spiritual love cause war and conflict, as in the case of the Osho cult in Oregon, which poisoned local citizens who got in the way of their world peace agenda.
One of the weaknesses of human beings is the need to be certain to avoid the feeling of being wrong. This is an evolutionary trait. Our ancestors needed to be assured of their survival. Their assessment of the environment was crucial in protecting them from predators. Was the rustling bush a predator, or was it the wind? Being wrong about a threat could result in being eaten alive, thus, increasing our epigenetic motivations for rightness. Being wrong about our convictions is counterintuitive and more so for the person with a philosophical identity.
For the sake of this article, I'm going to focus on skepticism.
Recently, in a Facebook skeptic community, I came across a post on the movie "The Sound of Freedom," which is an expose' on the horrifying child sex trafficking industry. The post read as an invitation to see the movie and raise awareness of this scourge of modern slavery.
In response, several replies suggested a conspiracy theory was afoot, and others dismissed the movie as hype. I found these comments profoundly ignorant especially coming from a community rooted in common sense and critical thinking.
For one, anyone can verify the legitimacy of the organization behind the movie through law enforcement affiliation. Two, child sex trafficking stats are available on Google proving a 150 billion dollar global slave trade. Three, writing off a movie that is trending at the top of the box office exposing criminal organizations is counterproductive. A cursory understanding of how child abuse affects our culture should motivate anyone with common sense.
But skeptics are skeptics. Not all are the dogmatic kind, but many position themselves to attack ideas that don't fit neatly into their pessimism box. Furthermore, their skeptical assessment depends on being "right" about, well, everything (you know what they say about opinions). So, they must abandon critical thinking and double down with dismissal techniques, sarcasm, and frivolous accusations. In other words, skeptics can project their own conspiracy theories onto subjects they refuse to properly investigate.

Being skeptical is being cautious about agreeing with the status quo. It is a form of thinking through something, to trust one's doubts and reservations. It is a safeguard. It protects us from delusion and falsehoods. It is a healthy survival mechanism. A lack of independent thinking can be detrimental and, in some cases, deadly. But there's a difference between being skeptical and 'identifying' as a skeptic. The former is a skill, and the latter is a psychological identity one must validate, prove, and defend at all costs because the skill has become the self.

An excellent example of skeptical bias is Michael Shermer, an acclaimed author, scientist, and director of the Skeptics Society. He is highly respected for his rational approach to scrutinizing religion and metaphysics. However, his unwavering skepticism toward the UFO phenomenon is revealing.

Despite the increasing number of government and military reports, including the renowned UFOs captured by US Navy fighter jets on the USS Nimitz and USS Theodore Roosevelt in 2004, 2014, and 2015, Shermer dismissively attributes such sightings to "fuzzy" and "blurry" objects, like balloons, drones, and distorted photos of flying insects. The pilots' recordings, describing these UFOs' maneuvers defying known laws of physics, raise intriguing questions in contrast to Shermer's rigid stance.
Pentagon now reports about 400 UFO encounters: 'We want to know what's out there.'Pentagon announces new group to investigate reports of UFOs near certain military sites.

Another topic that is conveniently overlooked by skeptics is the long history of government coverup. There are countless reports of government and military personnel stating on record they were told to keep silent or distract the public. One example is the famous Phoenix Lights sightings on March 13, 1997. 

This extraordinary case involving former Arizona Governor Fife Symington stands out due to the events that unfolded. On that evening, numerous citizens in Phoenix reported witnessing massive, noiseless crafts maneuvering in the skies, disappearing at incredible speeds. The witnesses included police officers, pilots, military personnel, and, surprisingly, Fife Symington himself, as it was later revealed a decade later.
Upon hearing reports of UFO sightings in the area while he was at home watching television, Symington, with his security detail gone for the day, decided to investigate alone. To his amazement, he saw a colossal boomerang-shaped craft gliding silently overhead, aligning with the descriptions provided by many other witnesses that night.
The sightings received extensive local media coverage for three months before gaining national attention. As public curiosity and demand for an explanation grew, Symington called a national press conference but remained tight-lipped about his own experience. Instead, he presented his chief of staff dressed as an alien, intending to mock the situation and lighten the atmosphere. However, this prank haunted him for years.
A decade after the incident, Symington eventually confessed to his own sighting and the deception during the press conference. He cited pressure from upset citizens and a guilty conscience as his reasons for finally coming clean. He acknowledged that talking about UFOs and extraterrestrial phenomena is considered taboo for elected officials, fearing the media's ridicule and potential damage to their credibility.
Symington lamented the culture of ridicule prevalent in the media, believing that serious discussions about UFOs are dismissed without proper consideration. He emphasized the caution required when addressing such matters as an elected official, acknowledging the potential consequences of being discredited by the media. This is a mild example of a UFO coverup. I could write an entire article on documented cases.

Despite all of the evidence (and there's plenty of it), skeptics wrote it off as flares floating around in the sky. Skeptoid was "so sure" the Pheonix Lights were not alien spacecraft (as if they had proof) Brian Dunning subtitled his article 'The Alien Invasion of Phoenix, Arizona' with:

"Despite what many UFOlogists want, the famous Phoenix Lights were not alien spacecraft."

And capped the article with an unscientific quip:

The Phoenix Lights were flares. Deal with it.

One can only wonder if there's a "CONSPIRACY" when critical-thinking skeptics dismiss a worldwide phenomenon that has been going on for over a century, witnessed by millions of people, as flares and balloons. Wait, I'm feeling an incoming transmission from another dimension:

“Absence of Evidence is not Evidence of Absence”

— Carl Sagan

Then you have lawmakers calling this "A National Security Threat." Consider for a moment how serious a situation we have; you don't see this as BREAKING NEWS on the nightly media machine. Unknown advanced vehicles are flying in our atmosphere, breaking the known laws of physics, and humans are acting like business as usual.

UFOs pose ‘potential national security threat,’ lawmakers warn. Rep. André Carson (D-Ind.) on Tuesday warned that UFOs pose a “potential national security threat” to the U.S. and “need to be treated that way” during a highly anticipated hearing with the Pentagon’s top intelligence officials on mysterious aerial sightings.

Reports of UFO sightings have increased around the world in the past few years (2020-2023), with footage from multiple sources on the ground. In most cases, the crafts appear as large orbs, black triangles, and your typical Area 51 disc. In early 2023 military pilots reported that they had seen a dramatic uptick in sightings.

Allow me to clarify my point here. The connection I am making between the Sound of Freedom movie and the UFO phenomenon is the dogmatic approach bordering on denial by skeptics. I don't find a sincere, non-biased attempt at investigation because if they find out that UFOs are alien craft, or worse, our geopolitical enemies, they will have to confront the uncomfortable feeling of being WRONG about their history of 'dismissal skepticism.'

From Visits to and From Extraterrestrials: Why They Never Occurred, and Probably Never Will: "Despite much ballyhoo in the media, all efforts thus far have failed to provide substantive evidence that might link the appearance of UFOs, now called UAPs (unidentified aerial phenomena), with aliens from other planets. This failure results from limitations imposed by both biology and distance. As Morton Tavel explains, when these factors are combined, they render any such contacts virtually impossible."

And yet you have highly respected scientists like Michio Kaku demonstrating a rational response to the issue:

"We have multiple sightings by multiple modes. That is the gold standard for looking for these objects. Not just one person, but several people who are reputable. Not just radar, but visual sighting, infrared sensors, telescoping evidence…"

"These objects travel between mach 5 and mach 20. That’s 20 times the speed of sound… The G forces are several hundred times the force of gravity. Any living person’s bones would be crushed by these objects, so they’re probably drones of some sort. These objects can drop 70,000 feet in a few seconds… And they can go underwater… And they also move without making exhaust or breaking the sound barrier. And these are things we can now document frame by frame by looking at these video tapes."

Despite his impeccable reputation, the experts in UFOlogy, "the press" (imaginary scientists) made a hilarious dispute in the article "Michio Kaku's Embarrassing Stance on UFOs":

But now, Kaku is seriously jeopardizing his reputation and misleading the public through his unscientific new stance on UFOs. He articulated it when speaking with podcaster Joe Rogan early last month.

"The burden of proof has shifted," he said. "It used to be the burden of proof was on the people who believe in UFOs. Now the burden of proof has shifted to the Pentagon, to the military. Now they have to prove that these aren’t extraterrestrial."

The article goes on to say that UFO enthusiast Mick West, who analyzes UFO claims with an evidence-based mindset, debunked the videos fairly easily as radar artifacts, planes, or merely balloons (eye-roll).

So, let me get this right:

- The entire Military Industrial Complex is clueless about what these things are.

- Lawmakers think these UFOs are a national security threat due to a phobia of hot air balloons.

- Norad pilots (who know better than anyone else the difference between a plane, balloon, and radar artifacts from extraordinary craft breaking the laws of physics) are delusional and incompetent.

- Millions of people with cell phone footage from around the world are secretly texting each other to keep the conspiracy under wraps.

- And military personal dating back 60 years who have publically disclosed under oath UFO and alien government involvement are suffering from weird bouts of false memory syndrome.

Who is right? You guessed it—the skeptics. Why? Because being skeptical is a sign of intelligence. These are the people who filter the nonsense of society. It is they who protect us. Their mental agility is unmatched, even in the face of physicists like Michio Kaku (my appeal to authority).

So why wouldn't they take 30 seconds to do a Google search on the 150 billion dollar child sex industry before dismissing 'The Sound of Freedom' on social media? Because they are the gatekeepers of normalcy bias — maybe it is they who can't handle the truth.

Remain skeptical of the skeptics.

— Zzenn

Why it's Dangerous to Believe God Cares About You

In my 60 years of hereditary religion and spirituality, I have come to the conclusion that believing in a divine entity who watches over me, guides me, listens to my prayers, or manifests my desires is a delusion. However, this realization has been liberating and increased my ability to care for myself. I have also removed the barrier between myself and divinity.
Why would a God (or mysterious spiritual energy) spend time helping people achieve their dreams but not lift a finger for millions of sex-trafficked children? What's going on here? Favoritism? Karma? Genetics? Sin? Determinism? Interdimensional Choice?

One of the more popular New Age beliefs is the idea that we, as spiritual beings, choose to come to this "Earth School" for the experience. Now, if you unpack this spiritual bubble gum, you will be confronted with a host of questions that cannot be answered rationally, that is, without making up another "belief" system to quell the existential disorientation.
For starters, no one actually remembers choosing to come to earth. There is no proof outside of magical thinking, confirmation bias, and false memory syndrome. If there is, please post the location of the portal to the ethereal realm in the comment section below. More revealing, who would choose to come to earth to be tortured in Satanic rituals. Think I'm kidding?

Witch doctors sacrificing children in this drought-stricken African country.
Why would Jesus magically cause the tornado to miss a Christian family's home and not cause a kidnapper to get hit by a car or have a heart attack before assailing a child? Why are kidnappers so successful? What's the national average of failed attempts?
Why do good things happen to bad people and bad things happen to good people all the time? How does one believe God cares about them when he (or she) doesn't care about others?

On the night of April 28, a golf cart carrying four people was struck from behind by an alleged drunk driver near Charleston, South Carolina, killing 34-year-old Samantha Miller and critically injuring her new husband, Aric Hutchinson, and two others. The couple had just celebrated their wedding earlier that day.

Bride-to-be dies on the wedding day, hours before the ceremony.
Why would God allow an innocent child to be eaten alive by a beast?
3-Year-Old Killed After Leopard Dragged Him Off into Bush
These are just a few stories on several topics you could search for and find many examples of. As difficult as it is to face these realities, there is an excellent reason to slap oneself out of normalcy bias and see what is actually going on around us at any given moment.
Can you honestly say God, or Spirit, has protected, provided, and guided you throughout your life without a doubt? If your answer is yes, then I challenge you to make a list of the tragedies in your life that were ignored by the All-Seeing-Eye. I invite you to examine what you said to yourself when tragedy struck.

Did you thank Jesus when your friend survived a car accident or a family member an operation? When your child was sucked away in a tornado, did you say to yourself: "It was the will of God" or "God wanted them to go to heaven?" If you are a spiritual person, did you celebrate your child "choosing" to leave the earth school as it got devoured by a shark on its boogie board?
This absurd notion is utterly void of common sense. It is an escape hatch from reality. It is consciousness, at its storytelling best, buffering itself from death awareness. With these self-deluding stories, no situation is shielded from crazy. And the worst part is that people do not take real-world action to prevent tragedies because they are 3-steps away from an intelligent Googlized city.

The same laws of nature apply to everyone. There are no favorites. Survival is based on being aware of one's environment and responding accordingly.

When people believe in invisible forces overseeing them, guiding them, talking to them, and protecting them, they become lazy. They fall asleep in fantasyland and do not live in the moment. They are not aware of the animals they are, animals who EAT other animals. Just visit a slaughterhouse if you have any lagging questions about our predatory species.
Consider people who visit national parks and treat them like Disney's Jungle Boat Cruise. Depending on the park, there are lions, bears, wolves, and moose, to name a few, roaming about. Here in Arizona, I have warned several tourists over the years of specific hiking trails to avoid during rattlesnake season. Do you think that would detour them? In many cases, I find their attitude is "It won't happen to me."
The problem with this disconnection is they do not live in the wilderness. They do not know what it is like to be mauled by a bear or bitten by a rattlesnake, so their level of awareness is minimalized. Throw in some religious beliefs, and their divine narcissism may spawn fantasies of escaping the bear attack, calming the snake, or slowing down the charging lion with their Jedi powers. And don't think that prayer isn't a magical power; it is every bit of an incantation.
The fact that some humans raise an eyebrow when you call them animals demonstrates the disconnection. And this is why human primates do not approach their environment with all of their senses. I'm not referring to psychosis, such as paranoia. I'm pointing to the natural instincts that make us animals. But caution, because in some cases, it will invoke accusations of oversensitivity because fear is a four-letter word with the walking dead.

Whatever you do, do not point at the zombies. That is fear. And you will offend them. Zombies are perfectly normal. Just because they roam in hoards and eat people is no cause for alarm "you fear mongerer."

I run into people all of the time who are anathema to the news. They believe the news is fake or a fear-based endeavor. They believe that magical forces are protecting them, so they have no need to inform themselves of the influx of gangs into their neighborhood. When the news comes out that their neighbor's son was stabbed to death, they reluctantly or defiantly ramble their esoteric prose. You see, God is in control, so why must they?

The logical answer to this dilemma is to wake up as a human animal. Be aware of your local, national, and global environment — and stop pretending the world is safe. Stop believing invisible forces are protecting your family when they ignore tortured children in sex trafficking rings. Stop believing God will fix the world's problems when humans do it every day (social workers, psychologists, doctors, etc.). If anything, 'belief in God' is causing the problems of the world (dissociation and avoidance).

God didn't protect Jesus from being crucified any more than he did Gandhi or Martin Luther King from a bullet. What happened to their dreams? Why were they not rewarded as heroes? Why do all the good people get murdered and tortured, whose deaths are celebrated in our culture and myths?

Notice you'll never see a Facebook post of a gorilla with the words "Jesus Love You" or a Baboon sitting under an ascension rainbow.

Once humanity wakes up from their imagination, they will realize that the world is a result of their actions. Words, although they make an impact, do nothing in the form of prayer outside of giving the delusional impression something is happening. Metaphysical chants calm the nerves, and religious prayers "lie to the mind" and lull us into a false sense of security. This spell affects everyone we come in contact with and corrupts our senses.

When we confront reality for what it is, we are more prepared and less likely to suffer avoidable tragedies.

Could the parents of African children be aware enough of the local witch doctors to relocate? Could the bride and groom have been more aware of their environment to avoid the drunk golf cart driver? Could the child on the boogie board have avoided the shark attack by watching for suspicious dorsal fins? Could carjacking have been avoided because the victim checked the local news on the recent crime wave before they left for work?

We can prove that human awareness and action change the conditions of our lives and, thus, the world. You can test this in your home or alone on a desert island. We cannot prove that invisible people or forces do anything in response to our celestial commands. But what we can discover is that we are the universe, not a servant of the universe. At our core, we are energy. Energy doesn't pray to itself or beseech itself in another form. Life lives itself in every form and equips it with all of the senses necessary for survival.

In the archetypical form, God's caring is conceptual. In the human form, God cares very much. Just ask your best friend or listen to your heartbeat. If your heart attacks you, blame the devil. 

Let us stop praying to God and Be God. Let's care for ourselves and wake up to the world as 'it is' rather than how we wish it to be, which, unfortunately, is a place where celestial parents take care of adult children. We need adults in the room before we turn spaceship Earth into a zombie apocalypse without an escape hatch.

Food for thought.

— Zzenn

The Happy Complex: The Feeling of Forced Happiness

Have you ever felt obligated to be happy in the presence of positive people? You know,  that "deer caught in the headlights" moment where you're watching the person's happy talk while feeling completely disconnected? This happened to me the other day at a restaurant I frequent.

One of the employees is a jubilant man who takes food orders at the counter. He is filled with blissful quips and optimistic dialog. He is special and refreshing, relieving the placated moods surrounding those waiting in line. Some may wonder what the source of his glee is. Religion? Money? Family? Hobby? Or is he an unpretentious avatar, a keeper of keys to the Kingdom of Heaven?

As a young child, I was keenly aware of the sadness in the world. It began with a scraped knuckle on the playground, awakening me to the reality of pain and impermanence. The loss of my existential virginity deepened while staring at elderly people and feeling deep sorrow, knowing their days were short.

Sunday mornings were spent gazing at the stone face of Jesus, adorned with a crown of thorns, at the entrance of the Catholic church. The vivid statues inside depicted Jesus' torturous journey carrying the cross to Golgotha, amplifying the sense of a waking nightmare.

During my adolescence, I couldn't avert my gaze from the horrifying footage of war and death. I watched the 26-episode British documentary television series "The World at War" with a specific interest in footage of the Nazi concentration camps. I was spellbound in horror as I watched bulldozers pushing piles of dead bodies into huge pits.

As a teen, I became obsessed with Vietnam War footage. I just couldn't turn my head away from reality. If there was a sense of "do not look," — I would look. Even the Faces of Death series, showcasing gruesome ways of dying, held a strange fascination.

I remember the sadness I felt walking out of movie theaters and how the real world sucked in comparison. Although Disney movies were a relief from reality, the aftermath was often disorienting. Where is this Mary Poppins world, and why am I stuck in a depressing suburb of Los Angeles? Visits to Disneyland made it even worse. I wanted to escape into the Pirates of the Caribbean or the Haunted Mansion and never leave. How lucky were the children in Peter Pan whose "lovely wonderful thoughts" made them fly.

As I grew into an adult, I quelled my evidential depression through motivational teachings. I created goal posters and became a devotee of infinite possibilities. But as time passed, my dream bubbles popped through a recurrence of abrupt reality checks. One of those inconvenient truths was a nature documentary on predators.

I was staying at a friend's house in North Hollywood when my Disney "programming" came to a halt. I don't remember the series, but I spent the entire day glued to the TV as the horror of brutality was revealed. Of course, one may wonder why I was clueless about one-half of nature eating the other half. But that was a result of "wishing upon a star" so my dreams would come true (thanks to that lying cricket). Bambi, the Lion King, and the biblical fiat "the lion shall lay done with the lamb" didn't help either.

Now, I'm not negating rational optimism or thinking big. I'm pointing to the harsh reality that dreams usually don't come true. Now, the gatekeepers would scold me for violating the "code of hope," but an honest assessment of American Idol would demonstrate that there's not enough room at the top. And to make matters better or worse, Simon Cowell liberates delusional singers from their grandiosity.

I'm suggesting a renewal of authenticity. I'm validating the unspoken stare. I'm saying to you, oh reader — you are not crazy. You have every reason to be sober when tempted by jubilee juice. Your resistance to courtesy assaults is grounded in experience, and the dead air that surrounds you in a crowd is sacred space.

Who wants to live in a world of people pretending to be happy? I rather watch the circus with crudely honest curmudgeons than laugh in lock-step. I may be tempted to pet the monkeys or offer a salve to the mutants, but I will resist the temptation to fake my way through the event.

The drawbacks of forcing ourselves into a good time are inauthenticity. We avoid confronting our psychological shadow, which is about as lasting as painting a smile on our grieving face. Pressuring ourselves to artificially enjoy a moment only serves to further us from ourselves. Sometimes we need to step back and have a "come to self" moment. We need to explore the negative effects of forcing ourselves to have fun and make it a curious journey into our psyches.

Now, don't get me wrong. I could be accused of being happy. I do what I love and take great pleasure in like-minded conversations. But that's because I accept reality for what it is. I'm not avoiding the truth. I'm grounded in the soil of reality, well-rooted, unlike those who have taken the pedals from other flowers and glued them around their faces.

I can't say that I am immune to the temptation of a fake smile. I still feel the fear of being shunned from ape grooming. On the other end of the stick, I have been admired for standing up in the crowd, declaring, "The emperor has no clothes." I have become a self-realized black sheep.

But over the years of speaking my truth and refusing to pretend, I have developed an enlightened cynicism that neither blisses out nor gives way to nihilism. I'm somewhere in the middle where sincerity and amusement live. I realize the limits of being human and don't pretend existence is anything other than what it is — horrifying and beautiful.

I prefer not to stroke cult members' minds because I like being awake. It makes me smile for different reasons in the midst of happy talk. They never see it in my eyes, but after reading this article, you might.

Now, go look in the mirror and grin.

— Zzenn 

Do Near-Death Experiences Prove Humans are Avatars?

I recently had lunch with an 80-year-old friend struggling with health issues. We had a fascinating conversation about the possibility of an afterlife, during which he shared an intriguing experience. He described a moment when his body seemed to detach from him, leaving him in a state of expanded awareness.

As someone who has delved into the spiritual path and had my share of out-of-body experiences (OBEs), I have spent years exploring and reflecting on these phenomena. Through my journey, I view these experiences as inner-body hallucinations that hold significant meaning and impact our internal development.

However, my search for a scientific explanation led me to a thought-provoking book, "The Ego Tunnel" by Thomas Metzinger. In this book, Metzinger takes a multidisciplinary approach, drawing from neuroscience, psychology, and philosophy, to critically examine out-of-body experiences. His compelling argument challenges the notion that these experiences provide evidence for the existence of a separate, disembodied self.

Metzinger proposes that these experiences can be understood as products of the brain's intricate mechanisms, which have the ability to generate vivid and immersive subjective states. He suggests that out-of-body experiences shed light on the brain's capacity to manipulate and alter our sense of self, emphasizing the flexible nature of consciousness.

Over the years, I have engaged with spiritual believers who hold on to the idea of a disembodied interpretation, urging them to prove their claims through remote viewing of my own bedroom during their nocturnal travels. Interestingly, not a single believer has taken up the challenge, as their experiences were not external to the body but rather internal representations of ghostly voyeurism.

Having put to rest the dualistic claims of disembodied experiences, I found myself gravitating toward near-death experiences, which carry a weight of significance due to the consistent testimonies of a dimension beyond the physical body that feels more real than our earthly existence. What struck me was the profound intensity of these encounters, surpassing what we perceive through our physical senses in the material realm.

So, how does a barely functioning brain produce experiences that surpass normal functionality? Take, for instance, the story of a hiker trapped under a river for 45 minutes, who returned with tales of an extraordinary adventure in another dimension, rendering the earthly experience pale in comparison.

Neuroscientists attribute this phenomenon to near-death hallucinations. However, what caught my attention was the parallel claims of detachment from the body, accompanied by feelings of relief and a reluctance to return. Many describe the body as a tight and uncomfortable glove in contrast to the expanded sense of self. Another common thread is the overwhelming sense of home that experiencers feel in the out-of-body state, perceiving it as their default existence while considering the physical body as an avatar in an Earthly video game.

As they say, the devil is in the details. Human biology creates subjective illusions that often convince spiritual-minded individuals of paranormal experiences. The "feeling of being hunted" is an evolutionary trait inherent in our genes, which can give rise to hallucinations of aliens, demons, and other predatory entities. The body generates the sensation of a presence in the room, leading believers to perceive invisible agency. These hallucinations are so convincing that even non-believers may be tempted to interpret them through supernatural explanations. However, we seldom hear stories of atheists attributing such hair-raising experiences to anything more than imaginary fears. It raises doubt as to why disembodied entities if they exist, would require a human brain to believe in them in order to engage in haunting activities.

For those interested in delving deeper into these subjects, I highly recommend reading the following books by Bruce Hood:

The Science of Superstition: How the Developing Brain Creates Supernatural Beliefs

SuperSense: How the Developing Brain Creates Supernatural Beliefs

Hood explores our inclination towards supernatural beliefs, tracing their origins to our cognitive development and the way our brains process information. He delves into the mechanisms underlying our tendency to attribute agency and intentionality to natural events, ultimately shaping our superstitions and belief in the supernatural. From childhood imaginary friends to religious rituals and paranormal encounters, Hood investigates how our brains create and reinforce these beliefs.

"Evidence for the supernatural is elusive. Whenever one attempts to gather evidence for the supernatural, it inexplicably vanishes. Most often, it remains anecdotal, fragmented, or so weak that it barely registers as being there. Experiments investigating the supernatural rarely yield substantial results. Otherwise, we would witness a revision of scientific textbooks with new laws and observations. That's why conventional scientists rarely engage in research on the supernatural. However, the lack of scientific credibility does little to undermine the belief—most of us possess a supersense telling us that the evidence exists and that we should disregard scientific scrutiny and keep an open mind. The downside of open minds is that everything becomes possible, including the abandonment of reason."

In the context of near-death experiences, I lean towards an earthly video game analogy. The mounting evidence against spiritual phenomena suggests that these experiences are firmly rooted in religious and metaphysical convictions. Where there are psychics, channelers, paranormal activities, and OBEs, we often encounter outlandish claims of levitation, bilocation, and remote viewing—all of which are easily debunked and difficult to take seriously. These topics are often intertwined with manipulative gurus, charlatans, frauds, cults, and conflicting spiritual philosophies that rely heavily on subjective storytelling.

If we consider the possibility that human primates are akin to digital avatars in an advanced video game, it might be plausible to view spiritual experiences as integral to the game's design. In other words, the game is programmed to include hallucinations that deceive the avatar into believing it exists beyond the game itself. Based on the evidence suggesting that these experiences are nothing more than biological superstitions and hallucinations, near-death experiences might provide us with glimpses into the player of the game as the avatar teeters on the brink of death.

Imagine immersing oneself in a high-resolution virtual reality game to such an extent that one forgets they are playing a game. Then, due to a hardware glitch or software malfunction, they suddenly catch a glimpse of their avatar from a third-person perspective, realizing their true essence and the richness of their default environment, which surpasses all other tactile experiences.

However, as a human primate, it's possible that this line of thinking might serve as a coping mechanism to alleviate my fear of death.

Either way, the near-death experience undeniably demonstrates that our biology harbors a remarkable capacity for experiencing a fantastical realm, whether positive or negative (since some NDEs can be distressing), which skeptics cannot easily dismiss. If we, as human primates, are indeed digital avatars, then the immersive and imperceptible nature of these experiences aligns with the very purpose of virtual reality. One might even ponder if such a system could be designed by an advanced alien race.

For those seeking further exploration, I recommend visiting the IANDS: The International Association for Near-Death Studies website, where you can find in-depth research on the subject, with a particular emphasis on witness accounts.

Typically, people talk about leaving their bodies, but when my friend said his body left him, something in my brain shifted and sparked the ideas in this article. Are NDEs a hallucination? Is the universe a simulation? Who knows, it's a good topic to discuss over an earthly beer and pizza.

If you are an avatar, I recommend being in the game and living life to its fullest.

— Zzenn

Are We Fooling Ourselves with Synchronicity?

Synchronicity is a phenomenon that has greatly impacted my life and forms a central theme in my YouTube vlog. Lately, I've been pondering a question that has been lingering in the recesses of my mind: Am I fooling myself?
We've all experienced those moments when we meet someone who captivates us, leading us to believe they are our soulmate or the perfect partner. As we pursue these relationships, we are often met with a series of seemingly magical events that validate our intuitions. Synchronicities abound, and life takes on a wondrous hue, with even the most mundane occurrences bearing clues of destiny. But all too often, these romanticized encounters end in disappointment, revealing the true nature of the person and shattering the illusions we had created. This pattern can be observed in various aspects of life, including people, places, events, and even inanimate objects. Whenever we become emotionally invested in something, especially if it gives us goosebumps, we fall under a spell.
One of the catalysts for inducing synchronicity is music. Humans are particularly susceptible to entering trance-like states through music. Just observe how people bond in a bar while listening to country music with a few drinks. Music has the power to weaken our critical faculties and lull us into a world of delusion and pattern-seeking. When alcohol is added to the mix, the magic intensifies.
Religion also utilizes sound to create a sense of the mysterium tremendum, leading people to kneel in humble adoration of their invisible deities or embodied gurus. Yet, it is fascinating how quickly the enchantment dissipates when confronted with the disturbing truth, such as in the cases of John of God and Sai Baba, where revered spiritual figures turned out to be involved in sexual offenses. It is remarkable how convincing a dream bubble can be and how shocking it is when it bursts.
While synchronicity can enrich our lives, it is crucial to approach it with a healthy dose of skepticism and critical thinking. I have personally experienced events that surpass the realm of chance in the eyes of a rational mind. The patterns that have unfolded in my life have brought me enrichment and opened doors I may have otherwise missed. These experiences often come with goosebumps and confirmations of my intuitions. However, the more emotionally charged the situation, the more convincing the interpretations become, and therein lies the complexity. It is in the realm of heightened emotion that grandiosity and paranoia thrive, feeding our subjective imaginations. This leads me to further question:
Is synchronicity merely a form of self-hypnosis? Are we falling under our own spell when we assign meaning and connect dots to seemingly random events? Does synchronicity serve as proof of the deep susceptibility of humans to trance states and hallucinations?
In my own experiences, I have encountered narratives that defy explanation from a spiritual perspective. Synchronicities seldom unfold as expected, despite the initial excitement they generate. Yet, there are moments when the connections are simply astounding.
Synchronicity is an expression of creativity. The more open-minded we are, the greater the likelihood of experiencing a tapestry of events that are interconnected, much like a symphony of life. This process is not bound by logic; it is dream-like. This is why assigning fixed meanings to these connections often leads to disappointment. Individuals may believe they are being led to meet someone at a specific coffee shop, and their expectations and faith are rewarded when they encounter someone they would have never met otherwise. The outcome of such an encounter can be positive or negative and will be interpreted based on one's belief system.
As the years pass, those who embark on a committed search for truth often collide with reality, forcing them to fit their metaphysical interpretations into the confines of everyday life. This can lead to disillusionment as their metaphysical beliefs crumble like a house of cards.
These experiences remind me of psychedelic journeys, where everything is amplified. Bugs, walls, trees, animals, people, and the sky take on profound depths, drawing the psychonaut into a realm of magic and wonder. Yet, similar to synchronicity, these "otherworldly" journeys always come to an end. Regardless of how many enchanting experiences lift us into the ethereal realms, default reality remains unchanged, and returning to it can be challenging.

“Reality is that which, when you stop believing in it, doesn’t go away.”
— Philip K. Dick

Synchronicity is often attributed to divine guidance, a way in which a higher power leads us. However, this narrative presents a problem: If that is the case, it implies that this higher power is toying with us, raising us up and bringing us down like a game played with helpless animals or lifeless puppets, solely for amusement. We, as gullible primates, grasp onto anything that offers us emotional hope, tricking ourselves into believing that some invisible force is guiding our paths.
I propose that genuine guidance stems from our innate connection to reality, for we are, by nature, an intrinsic part of the universe. We can never truly be disconnected from reality, as we are reality itself. Our connection to the universe is as innate as a fish's connection to water. Yet, due to our life experiences, we often feel disconnected, and in our quest for validation, we reach for anything that offers us emotionally charged hope.
The true purpose of the spiritual journey lies in realizing our intrinsic connection to reality, for we are, in essence, the universe. By understanding ourselves as human primates, we can study the survival mechanisms inherent in our biology, just as one would study the behaviors of dogs or cats. There is a clear purpose and meaning woven into the fabric of our existence as human beings. Reproduction, nurturing, social connections, entertainment, and various other aspects contribute to a fulfilling life.
While synchronicity may be captivating and elicit a sense of wonder, it is important to approach it with critical thinking. Recognizing the role of cognitive biases and understanding statistical probabilities can help individuals avoid self-deception when attributing deeper meaning or supernatural forces to coincidences.
Here are some factors that contribute to our susceptibility to magical thinking:Agency Detection: Humans possess a natural tendency to attribute events to intentional agents. This cognitive mechanism, known as agency detection, evolved as a survival advantage, enabling our ancestors to quickly identify potential threats in their environment. However, this tendency can also lead to attributing agency to natural phenomena lacking a clear cause, giving rise to magical explanations.Pattern Recognition: Humans have a remarkable ability to recognize patterns, even when they may not exist. This capacity to find meaningful patterns in random or unrelated events has proven advantageous in various contexts, such as identifying predators or discerning edible plants. However, it can also lead to false positives, where we perceive connections and causal relationships that lack evidence. This inclination toward pattern recognition contributes to the development and perpetuation of superstitious beliefs.Illusory Correlations: Humans are prone to perceiving correlations between events that are actually coincidental. This cognitive bias, known as illusory correlation, can foster the belief in superstitious practices. For instance, if someone wears a lucky charm and subsequently experiences a positive outcome, they may attribute their success to the charm, even though the two events are unrelated. Over time, such associations can reinforce superstitious beliefs.Control and Uncertainty: Human beings strive to understand and control their environment, and superstitions can provide an illusory sense of control in situations where outcomes are uncertain. Superstitious beliefs offer individuals a way to exert influence over events and reduce feelings of helplessness. This desire for control and a lack of scientific explanations or readily available information can make individuals more susceptible to magical thinking.Life encompasses both joy and suffering and ultimately, it leads to death. This is where the conundrum arises. Unrealistic expectations, religious indoctrination, and cultural influences, such as Disney cartoons, horror movies, paranormal documentaries, and ghost stories, contribute to our beliefs about the afterlife. When faced with the anxiety of mortality, we seek solace in esoteric, mystical, philosophical, and spiritual musings, often striving for immortality. This is the human predicament we grapple with.
So, what is the purpose of spiritual life? That realm of myth, magic, and transcendence? The human organism grows and nurtures a soul within a subjective ecosystem, with the ultimate destiny of blossoming like a flower. Our journey encompasses birth, maturation, adulthood, reproduction, and death. This process, the cycle of life, imbues our existence with meaning.
Speculation arises when contemplating what happens after death, yet it remains an integral part of our evolution in this vast universe. In light of the challenges humanity faces today, antinatalism may not seem like an entirely unreasonable concept. Nevertheless, we find comfort in the fact that we are not alone; we are part of a collective lineage of 80 billion humans who have traversed this path before us.
— Zzenn

The Gods are Dead but Humans are Alive and Well

“Every myth is psychologically symbolic. Its narratives and images are to be read, therefore, not literally, but as metaphors.”

— Joseph Campbell

In 1882, Friedrich Nietzsche proclaimed the famous words "God is dead" in his influential work "Thus Spoke Zarathustra." Nietzsche argued that the decline of belief in the Christian God would lead to the collapse of structures and values built upon that faith, such as European morality. This declaration sparked debates about personal identity, divinity, and religious beliefs.

Similarly, in 1983, Shirley MacLaine stirred controversy with her book "Out on a Limb," where she boldly stated, "I AM GOD" during a transformative moment on a beach. This declaration ignited discussions about personal identity, the divine, and the boundaries of religious belief.

However, these proclamations often overlook the other side of the spectrum—the archetypes of Satan and the Ego. Also referred to as Lucifer, Beelzebub, the Devil, and the Shadow from a psychological perspective.

If God's demise logically implies Satan's nonexistence without God, shouldn't Satan be considered dead too? Similarly, if "We Are God," wouldn't it also imply that "We Are Ego" since many New Age teachings present Consciousness as an all-encompassing concept (repackaged as God)?

The philosophical journey from "God is Dead" to "I Am God" sheds light on the evolution of the human ego. Humans have grown capable of taking responsibility for their actions, recognizing their impact on society and the planet, and moving away from external crutches. The traditional anthropomorphic God figure is revealed as a mythological construct, validating Nietzsche's assertion.

The phrase "good without God" has gained traction within society, despite resistance from religious circles due to its challenge to the ethical foundations of dogma. This notion suggests that virtuous human beings can embody greater goodness than the Christian God.

So, where does "Satan is Dead" fit into this narrative? Using the same logical progression, the archetypal embodiment of human evil—Satan—should also be considered deceased, along with the Goddess archetype.

It's important to note that theistic Satanists and New Age followers of the Goddess archetype do not fundamentally differ from Christians in their embodiment of these archetypes rather than their interpretation. Hollywood often perpetuates this ignorance, becoming a stage for wealthy individuals who have become ensnared in the manipulations of Monarch Mind Control. In this context, Satan seems alive and well.

However, it is crucial to acknowledge that theistic interpretations of Gods, Goddesses, and Devils are mere manifestations. Tangible evidence of their existence beyond the realm of imagination is lacking, making it difficult to substantiate their materialized forms. Similarly, the millions of Hindu deities and their physical locations remain primarily within the realm of human consciousness.

Many individuals still hold firm beliefs in Satan as a literal force influencing world affairs, eagerly anticipating divine intervention from God and angels. The repackaged version often revolves around the concept of benevolent and malevolent aliens channeled through self-proclaimed human radios transmitting cosmic messages.

However, an honest examination of human affairs reveals that divine intervention is often nothing more than confirmation bias. Consider the plight of millions of starving Africans and the horrors of sex trafficking that persist—can one genuinely argue that God cares? Additionally, paranormal and metaphysical experiences rarely find their way onto the screens of millions of cell phones and YouTube videos without the intervention of special effects creators.

Renowned magician and skeptic James Randi even offered a one million dollar reward for anyone who could prove psychic powers or paranormal phenomena. Over the course of a decade, not a single person succeeded in substantiating such claims.

Nevertheless, let us entertain the idea that advanced technology may be responsible for phenomena like alien abductions, poltergeists, and paranormal experiences. Could these occurrences be the result of extraterrestrial influence perpetuating the mythological constructs of good and evil?

Occam's razor suggests that the history of spiritualism has failed to produce evidence supporting the existence of a spiritual realm beyond the human psyche. Does this mean there is no afterlife? The answer remains elusive, as tangible evidence on this side of the dimensional fence remains scarce.

When it comes to individuals claiming to leave their bodies and remotely view distant locations, skeptics challenge them to provide verifiable proof. Numerous invitations for astral travelers to demonstrate their disembodied acrobatics on YouTube live streams have gone unanswered for over a decade.

God and the Goddess reside within the human mind, as demonstrated by various religious cults and narcissistic individuals. Satan, the mythological figure whose transgressions in the Bible pale in comparison to the horrendous genocides attributed to Jehovah, is simply a manifestation of the human primate. War, a nightmarish manifestation of territorial conflict, can be seen as a metaphorical interpretation of "Hell" still alive within the human condition.

If humanity awakens from the misconceptions that fuel their delusions and embraces uncertainty while questioning their unwavering certainties, we may witness the necessary changes to build an intelligent civilization. Is such a transformation possible? Considering the historical record of human behavior, it seems challenging for the leopard to change its spots without some form of DNA alteration or intervention from Artificial Intelligence.

Ultimately, the existence of Satan, God, and the Goddess lies within humanity itself—this has always been the case. Satan is dead, and the human primate remains alive!

— Zzenn

Why Truth is Relieving and Lies Create Stress

“Reality is that which, when you stop believing in it, doesn’t go away.”

— Philip K. Dick

Are you familiar with the unease that arises when you hold onto unrealistic beliefs and the subsequent relief that washes over you when reality confirms your suspicions? It's an intriguing phenomenon that delves into the realms of truth and falsehood.

Let's consider a scenario. You embark on a spiritual quest and eagerly purchase a book on manifesting your dreams. The book presents enticing ideas, suggesting that you possess the power to shape your reality and attain anything your heart desires. Enthusiastic about the prospect of effortlessly materializing your wishes, you explore techniques such as visualization, letting go, goal posters, positive affirmations, claiming your dreams, and indulging in blissful meditations.

However, as time passes, you realize that manifesting your desires isn't as simple as you once believed. The goals you diligently visualize fail to materialize, and you're left feeling stressed and inadequate. You constantly remind yourself that your dreams are in progress as long as you maintain unwavering focus. Yet, despite your efforts, reality remains unchanged, and frustration builds, resulting in a subtle but persistent cognitive dissonance.

What you've unknowingly embraced is a form of irrational optimism known as magical thinking. Often instilled by books, motivational gurus, or spiritual mentors, this belief system convinces you that you can "Create Your Reality" or manifest anything simply by following your heart's desires. Consequently, you find yourself investing substantial money and effort into fulfilling your dreams. But here's the catch: you cannot manifest everything you desire. It's a lie that has enriched the coffers of "dream merchants" for centuries.

Let's now examine the contrast between truth and illusion:

The Illusion: You dream of becoming the next American Idol. Your family, who has never achieved their dreams, praises your singing voice, insisting it sounds angelic. Every time you envision yourself as the American Idol, goosebumps cascade down your arms, and your practice sessions enhance your vocal abilities. Synchronicities align as you take steps toward your goal, sign up for competitions, and complete paperwork. It's almost as if the universe itself is guiding you. Your family initiates a prayer vigil, and the local church rallies behind you, offering financial support on your journey to the Emerald City along the yellow brick road.

The Truth: Unfortunately, reality paints a different picture. Your tone-deaf voice resembles a broken record, and your aspirations stem from delusion. You firmly believe that higher power, amidst its efforts to combat issues like child trafficking, is taking precious time to mold you into a pop star. This belief stems from the notion that you are uniquely "special." Regrettably, those around you are equally ensnared in this delusion. No one has mustered the courage to inform you that the quality of your voice is genetically determined and that, no matter how hard you work, achieving the status of a renowned singer will forever remain elusive. You may find an audience among the inebriated patrons of your local bar.

Now, consider the solace in the words of someone who has endured similar struggles. They validate your experiences, refusing to placate you with delusional affirmations or quotes on positive thinking and manifestation. They acknowledge the realities of the world, comforting you by saying, "Wow, that's tough. I've been in a similar place where everything feels like falling apart, and a profound sense of hopelessness engulfs me. Your feelings are valid. Life can be incredibly harsh. You're not losing your mind; there's a legitimate reason for feeling this way. Sometimes, we become emotionally unwell, and the first step towards healing is acknowledging and accepting it."

Such words are calming; they restore your sanity and offer a sense of happiness as you realize that this person perceives the world just as you do. You're not being gaslighted. The suspicions you harbor about your partner's infidelity are legitimate. Your struggles with alcoholism are genuine. The career you're pursuing truly leads to a dead-end. The guru you've been following is nothing but a charlatan. No one is misleading you about the nature of the world. You can now relax, embracing the comfort of the obvious being just as it appears. You are no longer being deceived. From the very beginning, your intuition was correct. You can trust yourself, freeing yourself from the treadmill of unrealistic dreams. Your experiences have been validated. Life isn't fair, your desires may go unfulfilled, and people aren't always kind.

Here's a compilation of harsh truths that burst the bubbles of fanciful dreams:

Good fortune favors the wicked, while the virtuous face adversity around the clock.Most individuals who embrace the teachings of these "dream merchants" ultimately fail to materialize their envisioned dreams.Religious prayers often remain unheard and unanswered. A simple test, devoid of confirmation bias, reveals that prayers frequently go unanswered.Reality manifests through action; magic thoughts don't traverse the ether, magically altering circumstances.Nature's equilibrium relies on consuming itself, with one species preying on another.This planet houses countless horrors for animals like cows, chickens, pigs, and fish. A tour of your local slaughterhouse would be a sobering experience. It's best to stick with Disney cartoons.The world is governed by psychopaths with a history of war and genocide.Life is inherently unfair and unjust. Consider individuals born deformed, addicted to drugs, trapped in war-torn regions, mired in poverty, homeless, or orphaned and condemned to live in orphanages.If a higher power exists, why hasn't it intervened throughout history to prevent the abuse of children via sex trafficking, infanticide, or domestic violence?

While life can be harsh, dwelling within a dream realm can amplify stress. Eventually, the truth prevails, dealing a substantial blow to your perceived reality. When your delusions come crashing down, you must undergo a detoxification process, weaning yourself off the intoxicating allure of imagination. This moment can be overwhelming, often triggering an existential crisis, drug abuse, criminal behavior, unethical conduct, mental illness, or an intensified commitment to delusional beliefs. It is, without a doubt, a process of grieving. Similar to any form of loss, one must adapt to the real world, finding solace in the aspects of life that genuinely exist.

Waking up from a dream can be an arduous experience, particularly if you've invested significant time and energy into its perpetuation. Nevertheless, by following your passions, you can navigate through challenging times, making the journey worthwhile.

Follow your bliss.If you do follow your bliss,you put yourself on a kind of trackthat has been there all the while waiting for you,and the life you ought to be livingis the one you are living.When you can see that,you begin to meet peoplewho are in the field of your bliss,and they open the doors to you.I say, follow your bliss, and don't be afraid,and doors will openwhere you didn't know they were going to be.If you follow your bliss,doors will open for you that wouldn't have opened for anyone else.
— Joseph Campbell
What Campbell is referring to when he states, "If you follow your bliss, doors will open for you that wouldn't have opened for anyone else,” he's not referring to supernatural intervention, but an experience one has when they focus on what they want and because of that, meet the people, places, and things that reflect their desire. In other words, you are likely to randomly meet nurses if you are studying to be a doctor or notice mountain bikes if you just bought tickets to a racing event.
To truly embrace this philosophy, cultivate an appreciation for what you already possess and genuinely need. Reach for the stars while maintaining rationality. Invest in your life based on your direct experiences and observations of what you know to be true. Be cautious of falling into the temptation of believing in things that lack substantial evidence. If something appears too good to be true, it probably is.
Nature has inherently provided humans with everything necessary for survival. As you detach yourself from the allure of fantastical imaginings, you'll naturally adapt to the simple pleasures that exist irrespective of your beliefs. The breath you take, the taste buds that allow you to savor flavors, the physical contact that fosters connection, the bond with nature, and the thrill of embarking on new adventures all satiate our biological needs when we embrace the innate provisions of human existence.
It's crucial to remember that life operates on its own terms, and sometimes our dreams can become ensnaring traps. Use your imagination to achieve rational goals, but always differentiate it from reality. Take practical and rational actions to attain what you genuinely require while acknowledging that desires aren't always fulfilled. Regardless of how fervently you believe in it, a wall remains impenetrable. Moreover, it's essential to critically examine the source of the ideas you encounter.
— Zzenn

Through the Eyes of the Homeless and Hopeless

The haunting sight of hopelessness fills the eyes of the homeless on a daily basis. To those who dismiss it as a mere state of mind, I pose a question: "Have you ever experienced sudden homelessness, left utterly alone with no support to lean on?" Allow me to answer on their behalf.
These individuals find themselves as hopeless as a skydiver descending with a tangled parachute. They confront the brutal truth every single day, reinforcing their dire reality. This grim awareness often drives them towards substance abuse, a temporary escape from the harshness of their existence. However, even the numbing effects of drugs fail to medicate the stark truth. Consequently, they are constantly reminded that they embody the demons of truth, a painful reminder from which everyone else strives to distance themselves.
Witnessing the vacant expressions and aimless gestures in their eyes day in and day out, I grapple with the disheartening fact that some individuals are genuinely without hope. Despite my reluctance to accept this notion, the harsh reality persists. Each passing minute, year after year, reinforces this unsettling truth. It is not a figment of imagination; they are painfully aware that their usefulness to society wanes over time, gradually deteriorating into a silent and solitary demise.
These forgotten souls have already experienced the bitter taste of oblivion. They endure it every time someone deliberately averts their gaze, treating them as the walking dead. Homelessness and hopelessness gnaw at their dignity, eroding it bit by bit. Over time, they grow apathetic towards people and life itself. Why should they care?
Some among them opt to spread unhappiness throughout society, seeking a perverse equilibrium. They recognize that nobody gives a damn about their existence, thus resorting to forceful acts of violence to compel others to halt and peer into their eyes.
Recently, I passed by the place I called home for 12 years. Peering through the windows from the sidewalk, I caught a glimpse of the new owners reveling in the "hope" and security that accompany the comforts of a home. A profound sadness washed over me in that moment.
Home is a fundamental necessity for every human being, as basic as it gets. I consider myself fortunate to have grown accustomed to a wretched home during my childhood, making my experience of homelessness slightly less foreign.
Solitude and loneliness exist as two distinct realms. The former is a deliberate choice, while the latter is imposed by circumstance. I cherish my solitude, yet this year I faced the anguish of loneliness—an empty void that arises only when you lose something or someone. Its impact intensifies exponentially when you lose everything at once.
Through the chaotic forces of life, my solitude intertwined with loneliness, intertwining within the same space. Embracing hopelessness proves challenging. It yearns to join the ranks, but it is difficult to befriend desperation. Hopelessness bears the same vacant stare as the homeless or, worse yet, the skydiver. A stark contrast to the warm sparkle emanating from love and hope.
During a recent conversation with a longtime restaurant owner, I revealed my homeless status. Astonishingly, her response was, "You should be happy because you have a van." I simply asked her, "Have you ever been homeless?" The astonishment on her face was palpable.
This phenomenon is known as survivor's guilt. People employ various means to dismiss any reality that threatens their psychic comfort zone. They are often the first to offer matter-of-fact suggestions, assuming the recipient lacks a functioning brain. Perhaps they assume this because the recipient is homeless. They cannot fathom the idea that someone as intelligent as themselves could become homeless due to an abrupt stroke of misfortune—fate surely finds amusement in such ironies.
If you believe life can be burdensome, prepare for it to worsen. Ask the individuals I encounter daily, their eyes devoid of hope, who lack transportation and receive minimal support beyond what food banks and homeless shelters can provide.
Driving past these individuals is one thing, but living within the same space as them is an entirely different experience. It serves as a constant reminder that you, too, could lose the flickering hope that remains. You might find yourself hurtling into an irreversible abyss situated on a street corner with a beard and a sign.
The aforementioned skydiver epitomizes hopelessness. If you believe a homeless individual experiences anything less as they deteriorate daily, bereft of hope, it's time to reconsider.
Some people face homelessness despite having family and friends, while others lack family but find solace in their friendships. However, the worst situation befalls those who possess neither family nor friends. Their fate is far more precarious, with survival as the sole barrier between them and freezing on a park bench. They must hope that their health, resources, and mindset align favorably.
Can we solve this problem? I am inclined to believe we cannot, but we have the capacity to exacerbate it. Each person we ignore or fail to nurture contributes to the perpetuation of hopelessness. Perhaps you have already succumbed to hopelessness, unknowingly becoming a catalyst for its propagation.
Hopelessness serves as a somber teacher, imparting a potent message. It reminds us to express gratitude each day for what we have, as we never know when it may be stripped away. And when that moment arrives, you better hope...
— Zzenn

Sex Trafficking and the Psychopath's Puppets

The day I published a video on YouTube asking subscribers to share links or donate to expose child sex trafficking, my view count dropped in half. The videos that got the average view count were about spiritual growth, near-death experiences, and following your Higher Self, etc.

I emphasize in my spiritual teachings that generational child abuse is the root of the path to enlightenment, individuation, and awakening — pick your poison. The focus of the process is the inner child. I assist seekers through the Focusing Method to find and heal their inner child. As the inner child grows, the spiritual path evolves through insights leading to self-realization.

Unfortunately, it comes as no surprise that an invitation to share a post about child sex trafficking statistics and a movie called The Sound of Freedom, which was produced for this purpose, would get no attention. To make matters worse, I got attacked on social media for posting it, and a close friend of mine lectured me on the phone about what a hypocrite I am for asking people to share on social media because A) social media sharing doesn't work, and B) I am not teaching by example when in fact I donate and share.

Human Trafficking Statistics and Facts

2 children are sold every minute.27 million people in modern-day slavery across the world1 million children are exploited by the global commercial sex trade every year.800,000 people are trafficked across international borders every year.$32 billion yearly profits generated by the human trafficking industry.This makes trafficking the 2nd most lucrative crime in the world.

So, people ask me why I use the terms "fools and mortals" with the added condescending embellishments "mutants, monkeys, and zombies." The above narrative displays a good reason for such contempt in light of the millions of children being raped, tortured, and dismembered for organ trafficking. I am hard-pressed to find a good example of humans being motivated to get involved in the darkest secret on our planet gently.

Here's some advice — stay away from Mcdonald's hamburgers—  the inside baseball on this recommendation is too graphic for mutant psychological consumption.

Fortunately, I not only present the milk but also the meat. People want to be inspired, motivated, and encouraged, but the other side calls for getting uncomfortable by confronting reality and awakening. Many YouTube channels teach people how to listen to their Higher Selves and meditate to reduce crime. Few lift up the hood of society's dark secrets and "physically" do something to alleviate suffering. Those who do are guaranteed to have a small channel. Thus, child sex trafficking continues, and the psychopaths celebrate their anonymity.

Some would critique my method as harsh, for shaming people into action and calling them names for their indifference and lack of compassion. The little booger in their display of self-righteousness is that they are shaming and name-calling me into not doing what they are doing — criticizing. This is the plight of the mutants. Not only do they not see the child sex trafficking elephant in the room, but they attack others who do. The emperor has no clothes, and the mutants refuse to look. In some cases, they see clothes where there are none which protects them from seeing the king's penis even when they're looking right at it. One can only wonder how invested they are in protecting their imagination from disappointment.

These are the mind-controlled "gate-keepers" of society that the psychopaths manipulate through their Netflicks "programs." Remind yourself daily that "everything is alright, all is well, and every day is improving. Governments are good, and Google's zombie sanitizing machine is in control." Recite this mantra every morning while you sip on your $7 latte.

Forget donating $10 monthly to Project Underground Railroad to help save a child from trafficking. Forget the conspiracy theory that "history repeats itself" or that global sex trafficking is a 150-billion-dollar industry. These are crazy thoughts for beer-drinking, redneck preppers who sit at the altar of Qanon and worship Trump.

This topic interests me because of the resistance in play. This disconnect is a clear manifestation of the shadow, which, collectively, IS THE SOURCE OF CHILD SEX TRAFFICKING. And the people on social media have yet to learn they are part of the problem simply by omission. And some covertly because they unwittingly become slave-minded attack dogs for their rulers and wouldn't know it if a boulder fell on their heads.

These entertainment addicts have no idea they resist raising awareness to protect their consciousness from reality. They are products of the system who believe their self-inflicted lies and excuses. And thus, they ensure that the psychopaths stay in power. They don't believe they are responsible for society's ailments. They believe raising awareness of child sex trafficking is someone else's job. Not sharing a link on social media is the literal definition of the idiom ‘To Not Lift a Finger.’ They are going along for the ride, hoping life doesn't bite them in the ass when their child gets kidnapped, raped, and murdered.

To whom this may apply — Fools, Mortals, puppets of the psychopaths.

Where are the heroes in our society? No one is asking people to arm themselves and break into underground sex trafficking bunkers. The request is to lift a finger LITERALLY with a 'share' on social media. And, if motivation sparks inspiration, ask others to do the same.

Share this: The Sound of Freedom

— Zzenn

Welcome to the World my Child - Good Luck

Since 2012 I have written about the pitfalls of spirituality and how to live an authentic spiritual life. As the years have passed, I have gradually surrendered to the hard realities of life. Oh yes, I have fought the raging battle between my dreams and disappointments and reached a point where it's time to take the gloves off and stop tiptoeing around the truth.

It's time for some bare-knuckle writing.

I won't write a script on "everyone's truth" to cushion the adult children in the room. I'm talking about the hard realities of life after the dream bubble has popped and the children have left the room.

Let's get started.

Humans are emotional primates susceptible to trance, illusions, hypnosis, and hallucinations. They are hard-wired to obey authorities, follow the rules, project their frail certainties onto others, be territorial, and in the worst of cases, succumb to sadistic behavior that only a zombie could sum up.

Like other mammals, humans also have the capacity for playfulness, wonder, friendliness, companionship, caring, giving, and in the best cases, sacrificing themselves for the higher good.

But humans are most vulnerable to their hopes and dreams. They create illusions (religion, irrational beliefs) to buffer their consciousness from reality. Things such as their 'personal extinction' (death), sickness, loss, heartbreak, slave labor, poverty, crime, drug abuse, unfairness, injustice, threats, intimidation, humiliation, and macro topics such as nuclear war, famine, child sex trafficking, genocide, infanticide, pandemics, disasters and, well, use your imagination to complete the list.

But wait a minute. Aren't you overlooking the good in between all of the bad Zzenn? Correct, but as you will see on this blog, humans spend much time spinning happy plates to get through life. This is a writing exercise for thrill-seeking readers. The kind who stops and watches car accidents. The bravest of minds who delve into the underbelly of reality.

All life is suffering.

— The Buddha

The most overlooked 'reality topic' is childbirth. Allow me to indulge in the details.

Humans are born screaming and crying. That alone should tell you something. They live in a womb for nine months, subject to the conditions around the mother. If the mother is in an abusive relationship, on drugs, has a poor diet, or listens to entertainment that drives chills down the backs of sentient mammals, such as death metal, horror films, or action movies filled with gun violence and the sounds of dying actors, scientific studies have shown this affects the development of the fetus.

Eventually, they squeeze out of the birth canal with the sound of their mother screaming in pain as the doctor (who is a stranger) pulls them away from the womb, cuts their umbilical cord (that lifeline that has kept them alive for nine months), swings them over to a table, wipes off the placenta goo, and in some cases, cuts the foreskin off the genital (which is very painful).

After the sanitizing ordeal, the mother's warm embrace rewards the infant, who suckles her teets. One can only wonder if children feel guilty for being born. Just think of the pain and sacrifice their existence has imposed upon an innocent human being right from the start. Could this be the birth of the psychological shadow?

If it is true that spiritual beings choose to come to classroom earth, shouldn't there be an entrance fee or reparations for the mother? Why would a loving spiritual being kick off its earthly visit by causing incredible pain to another? What's altruistic about that? Did Jesus apologize to Mary? Did Gandhi blurt a "Namaste" on the way out? One can only wonder why a returning Buddha wouldn't deploy a 'cosmic numbing agent' to the ill-recognized Goddess.

But consider that this birth scenario is the exception. What about inner-city children who spend their first nine months in drug-infested, crime-ridden environments? Those unlucky souls born addicted to fentanyl, wheeled into a recovery room without a suckle, sent to an orphanage, abandoned on the side of the road, or given to sex trafficking rings?

Oh, we've just gotten started. Then there's the long journey through childhood to prepare the earthling for adulthood in a world run by psychopaths. But I'll save those details for another post.

Welcome to the world, my child.

— Zzenn