This episode looks at the misuses of power, the dangers of arch narcissism and the ways that the dream of America is now being severely tested. An old proverb states that: Power lacks morals and principles, it only has interests, and the interests of the powerful are often at odds with the genuine principles and the truth and the kind of understanding needed to create community. The troubled times in which we now all find ourselves are the crucible in which we need to learn more about psychology of power in order not to become discouraged and disempowered and fall under the rule of those who only see power as a force of dominance to be used in the pursuit of personal gain at the expense of human community.   Before he was elected the first time, Donald Trump declared that he could shoot a person on Fifth Avenue and pay no consequences even for such a violent act. That was not simply an off hand statement of personal inflation, but rather a psychological revelation of an underlying sense of being above the law and beyond being accountable for recklessness, cruelty and even violent crimes. Having been elected to a position of great power again causes him to further identify, not just with being a dictator or a king, but with being like a vengeful deity who can create and destroy at will and being god-like, he cannot be restricted, can do no wrong and cannot be held accountable.   Because arch narcissists are psychologically undeveloped, they tend to use black and white thinking and binary codes. Thus a person is either a winner or a loser, and you must either be blindly loyal or you are declared enemy and can be considered evil. In that sense, the use of political power is always personal for Donald Trump. He may use the playbook of dictators and autocrats, but he does it in a dangerously personal way, because narcissism is literally his personal signature as well as his fatal flaw.   This kind of imperial narcissism and threats of vengeance and retribution for disobeying were what the founding fathers fought against. And at this critical time when the delusional power seekers and the self-inflated oligarchs seek to replace the dream of unity through diversity with the sad old rule of "to the winners go the spoils," it becomes our calling, as those who seek freedom and justice for all that find ways to unite in diversity, reject the would be dictators and petty tyrants who carry the flag of the false self in favor of the genuine dream that is always trying to re-awaken and become more conscious in the hearts of “We, the people.” Thank you for listening to and supporting the Living Myth Podcast. You can further support this podcast in the new year by becoming a member of Living Myth Premium. Members receive bonus episodes each month, access to the full archives of over 700 episodes and a 30% discount on all events, courses and book and audio titles. Learn more and join this community of listeners at: patreon.com/livingmyth If you enjoy this podcast and find it meaningful, we appreciate you leaving a review wherever you listen and sharing it with your friends. On behalf of Michael Meade and all of us at Mosaic, we wish you well and thank you for your support of our creative work.

On this excerpt from a Living Myth Premium episode, Michael Meade explores how even in the darkest times, the inner abundance of the soul is ever nearby. The problem is that the pathways to our inner inheritance and instinctive vitality are blocked by received ideas and an over-adaptation to early life conditions. The rigid attitudes of our ego or little-self make it difficult to connect to the imagination and vitality of the greater self within us. The deeper self is our true center that can be both a place of stillness and refuge or a place of breaking open and breaking through the limitations of the little self. You can hear the full episode and receive additional podcast content by becoming a member of Living Myth Premium.  Members receive bonus episodes each month, access to the full archives of over 700 episodes and a 30% discount on all events, courses and book and audio titles.   Learn more and join this community of listeners at patreon.com/livingmyth

Explore the transformative journey of the soul amidst chaos and division. Dive into archetypes that awaken creativity and healing, revealing our collective potential for renewal. Discover Rumi's transformative encounters that emphasize personal authenticity and imagination. Delve into ancient creation stories that highlight the quest for wisdom in chaotic times. Embrace pain as a pathway to the divine, igniting a deeper connection to inspiration and individuality. Join a quest for redemption and fulfillment through the power of storytelling and myth.

Explore the intricate 'creative middle way' where transformation occurs, bridging past wisdom and future possibilities. Dive into Rumi's poetry as a guide for self-discovery amid chaos. Understand the emotional ties to places that influence well-being, and discover techniques for inner peace. Uncover the power of liminal spaces in enhancing creativity and connection. Finally, embrace ancient beliefs and the concept of metanoia for deeper personal transformation and meaning in life.

Explore the timeless origin of the soul with riveting myths that illuminate our unique destinies. Delve into Er’s journey in the underworld, revealing how souls choose their fates. Uncover the price of forgetfulness as souls drink from the River Lethe, losing their memories before ascending. Discover the cyclical nature of life, death, and renewal, encouraging a profound inner awakening. Finally, contemplate the ancient Greek concept of 'aletheia'—the pursuit of truth amid modern distractions. Embrace your life's essential truths!

Michael Meade explores the idea that we need deeper connections to timeless truths instead of just more time. He shares an ancient Bushman story illustrating humanity's struggle with meaning during crises. The discussion highlights the importance of spiritual connection in enriching life amid challenges. The pursuit of truth and beauty is also examined, focusing on how we can awaken to deeper meanings beyond mere survival. Join the conversation about imagination’s role in navigating contemporary dilemmas.

Dive into an ancient Amazonian myth where the soul journeys to the cosmos each night, gathering messages woven into dreams. Explore the idea that each individual carries a hidden 'speck of star' meant to guide them. The discussion emphasizes the importance of awakening our unique selves during turbulent times, urging listeners to recognize their inherent genius. The narrative contrasts the richness of the inner world with societal pressures, advocating for authenticity and personal growth as essential for adding deeper meaning to our lives.

Dive into the profound symbolism of the winter solstice and its powerful connection to renewal. Explore how the Christmas tree represents the Tree of Life, embodying depth and transformation. Discover the importance of nurturing our inner light amidst global challenges. Reflect on the Tree of Life’s enduring symbolism, revealing unity in diversity and strength in interconnectedness. Delve into various cultural interpretations, reminding us of the hope and enlightenment found in nature, especially during dark times.

Polarization has become the word of the year, highlighting a shared concern across political divides. The discussion emphasizes how embracing the tension between opposites can lead to personal and societal growth. By understanding the duality of existence, listeners are encouraged to see conflicts as opportunities for transformation. The importance of recognizing transformative moments, or 'Kairos,' is also explored, suggesting that crises can lead to meaningful change if approached mindfully. Ultimately, it's about bridging divides to rediscover vitality.

Explore the global divide exacerbated by political polarization and climate inaction. Discover how our humanity thrives in the space between hard realities and imaginative possibilities. Delve into the need for collective awakening and individual creativity as catalysts for transformation. Reflect on overcoming psychological barriers and embracing our dual existence. Engaging literary insights illuminate the interconnectedness of personal growth, societal healing, and the environment, urging listeners towards meaningful change.