Living Myth

This discussion delves into the intriguing split between the ego and the deeper self, exploring how this inner division affects our lives. The symbolism of golden balls in fairy tales represents our innate quest for wholeness. Listeners learn about the importance of dreams and creative inspiration as guidance from this deeper self. The chat highlights how suffering can activate personal transformation and the vital role of creativity in reclaiming our lost selves, ultimately leading to inner unity and a meaningful existence.

Explore the fascinating concept of blindness, both personal and societal, and the quest for genuine visionaries. Discover how obstacles in life can serve as calls to awaken deeper insight. Delve into ancient myths like Tiresias and Oedipus, illustrating the paradox of visionary blindness and the consequences of ignoring fate. Emphasizing the importance of imaginative metaphor, the discussion encourages a shift from ego-driven perspectives towards transformative visions that can reshape culture and foster renewal.

The discussion explores the rise of vertical morality that prioritizes obedience over empathy, critiquing how this mindset fosters division and alienation. Michael Meade contrasts this with vertical imagination, a powerful concept that reconnects us to feelings and collective healing. He dives into the long-term effects of historical dualism on our perception of empathy and calls for a revival of the soul's role as a unifying force. The conversation ultimately emphasizes the importance of balancing ascent and descent to foster deeper connections and renew compassion in troubled times.

The discussion explores how trauma affects our bodies, revealing that witnessing pain—even on screens—triggers our fight-or-flight response. Constant exposure to traumatic news can deplete our resilience, leaving us overwhelmed. Helpful strategies include setting boundaries on news consumption, connecting with nature, and reaching out to loved ones. The conversation also delves into how trauma can shift our worldviews, with a mythological lens offering hope that chaos can lead to renewal. Finally, there's a focus on connecting to both the macrocosm and our inner selves for healing.

This conversation dives deep into the concepts of eros and kairos in our contemporary world. Eros is presented as the soul's connection to existence, contrasting sharply with the isolating force of Thanatos. The loss of eros leads to societal decay, hatred, and environmental neglect. Kairos is introduced as special moments that break the flow of ordinary time, offering opportunities for change and connection. Through myth and poetry, the discussion emphasizes the need to overcome barriers to love in order to foster genuine relationships and restore meaning.

The discussion kicks off with the idea that internal conflicts can become external realities, manifesting as our shared fate. Historical parallels are drawn, highlighting how rhetoric like 'the enemy within' is used to divide and dehumanize. Personal shadows and their projections are explored, revealing how our unacknowledged fears create societal strife. The need for authenticity over inauthentic power is emphasized, along with the transformative potential of embracing our shadows. Ultimately, listeners are encouraged to seek inner unity and connection in these polarized times.

Explore the transformative power of creation myths and how they can inspire renewal amidst chaos. The discussion delves into the dual nature of humanity, emphasizing our role as vessels for the eternal. With insights into inner awakening and rites of passage, listeners are invited to reconnect with primal narratives that resonate with our deepest selves. The concepts of abundance and isolation are examined, highlighting how these dynamics shape our lives and potential for regeneration in troubling times.

Explore the ancient roots of theater and its ties to democracy, where tragedy reveals human flaws and comedy critiques power. Discover how poetry serves as an antidote to hate, fostering connection amidst division. Delve into the tension of opposites as a path to psychological maturity, and understand satire's role in giving voice to the powerless. Reflect on the importance of standing for something meaningful in today's polarized world, where creativity can emerge from conflict and shared longings.

The discussion explores the rising violence among young men in the U.S., linking it to cultural upheaval and political polarization. It highlights how isolation and a lack of purpose can lead to radicalized behaviors. The hosts compare modern society's failure to initiate youth with traditional rites of passage that provided meaning. Additionally, they introduce the concept of 'latima,' a youthful inner heat, and the importance of elder wisdom in fostering cultural renewal. The dialogue emphasizes understanding these dynamics as essential for healing societal divides.

Explore the psychological dynamics of power and how it shapes leadership through mythic tales. Unpack the dark side of influential figures amplified by modern media, revealing the dangers of tyranny and oppression. Delve into stories like Lear's pride and the Cannibal King, illustrating the catastrophic impacts of hubris and unchecked power. Reflect on the potential for nobility amid chaos, emphasizing the need for personal authenticity and the importance of healing and creation rooted in love and justice.