Integration

Science without religion is lame, religion without science is blind.

                                                         -Albert Einstein

Don't confuse the territory with the map.

                                                          -William James

Our world is made up of divisions. We categorize inherently as a method of making sense of the world. In this way, this map provides us with a useful tool of guidance with regard to the decisions and choices that we make, who we choose to align with and what values we identify with. Groups are discriminated against, sometimes viciously or receive extremely preferential treatment because of the status of their group in society. Yet this status is nothing more than a bunch of divisions made into a map, created and applied by the majority and accepted by those who do not know any better or do not know how to change it. Collectively, groups compete against each other in an attempt to gain power and influence in this working map that makes up our collective psyche.  Science and religion are an example of one of the largest of such rivalries today.

I wonder if we need to divide in this way. Transpersonal experiences often result in a feeling of complete unity and connection, during which the divisions of our world melt away and we see the world in a more realistic way. If this is true, and all of these divisions upon which we depend and have become so deeply attached to are nothing more than a map maintained by mainstream culture, then perhaps it is now time to step outside of the norm. Perhaps it is time to see religion and science as separate reflections of one reality.  Perhaps by choosing to experience a more inclusive state of mind we will come to live a more inclusive life. Living a more inclusive and accepting life could mean a much more peaceful and evolved existence in the future for our people.