This is the 3nd and final part of a three-part series about: Part I– the contextual influences modern society has on mood disorders and addictions, Part II – the risks of buy-in and Part III – soul renewal via (but not limited to) therapeutic cannabis use.
The Possibility of Soul Renewal
“The spirit is one of the most neglected parts of man by doctors and scientists around the world. Yet, it is as vital to our health as the heart and mind. It’s time for science to examine the many facets of the soul. The condition of our soul is usually the source of many sicknesses.”― Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem
The addictive system of the addictive society, discussed in Parts I and II, is ubiquitous; pure nature provides the only respite. Not only is this system everywhere in the modern world but it is also unlikely to become non-addictive any time soon. Why? Commercial and political interests perpetuate an overarching and self-serving messaging context for the purpose of expanding buy-in, support and consumption.
The love of money is at the root and greed is the seed. (1)
Throughout human history economic and political platforms have rarely been praised for their integrity. No matter how much we might otherwise hope, what the powerful few impart to us is that which will best line their own coffers; truth, peace and sanity pale in comparison. This, according to my 35 years of research of the various systems of the world (economic, health, educational, military, social, financial, etc.).
The addictive system with its plethora of must-have information, products and services has mightily won over the hearts and minds of the population at large, but at what price? “The maze of senseless behaviors woven into the world” (2) reflects the rampant sickness of the soul so many suffer today.
Recovery from soul sickness and its many manifestations of substance and/or process addictions, or mood disorders like depression, anxiety and PTSD, etc., is often recovery from the system itself. Once our eyes are opened to the extent of soul sickness in the world, we can: begin to see through the lies, admit our powerlessness over the progression of an addictive system, and get honest with ourselves. (3)
Getting honest with ourselves is a process. It begins by acknowledging the ways in which we have allowed our thoughts and behaviors and ultimately, our identity to be co-opted by beliefs proffered by external forces. Such self-examination opens space to consider how we might reclaim possible lost connection with our own conscience, and validates intuitive, gut-level knowledge.
Therapeutic cannabis use is one way to ignite the process of getting honest with ourselves. It provides an efficient tipping point of deep insights and a shift in perspective. As a giant step outside the mind of the addictive society, it also helps physiologically by restoring internal deficiencies that make us more vulnerable to addictions and mood disorders.
Refreshed by an empowering new lens, those who choose this particular path make strides towards soul renewal, rediscovering their deepest identity from the inside-out. Awake and aware, life bursts with new meaning.
“It is always quietly thrilling to find yourself looking at a world you know well but have never seen from such an angle before.”― Bill Bryson, At Home: A Short History of Private Life
(1) “The love of money is the root of all evil, therefore selfishness must be the seed.”― M.D. Birmingham
(2) Patricia Evans. Controlling People. Adams Media. 2002
(3) Anne Wilson Schaef. When Society Becomes an Addict. Harper and Row, Publishers Inc. 1987
Okay. I got the idea. Now, what do you suggest I do?
Such an empowering perspective you provide. It is one of the few that did not trigger me to feel guilty or ashamed that I may have been caught up in this systemic addictive pattern. Everything you addressed rang true for me and I’m so grateful that I found how to use cannabis to help me break free and reconnect with the wondrous journey of renewed spiritual freedom. THank you gain for this insightful and very affirming series!