Essential Transformation
- Frantisek Strouhal
- Jan 27
- 3 min read
Updated: Mar 3
We portray how psychology and spirituality both confirm the trajectory of human development.
In different developmental frameworks, the fields of psychology and spirituality intertwine harmoniously to illustrate the ongoing progression towards unity. This journey leads us towards a profound connection: merging with the Ultimate Reality, with our own being (comprising mind, heart, and body), with fellow individuals, and with the universe at large. It is widely acknowledged that the initial stages of our consciousness exhibit duality, while the later stages or profound levels manifest unity and non-duality. Advancing from one stage to another typically involves encountering some form of trauma, setback, or darkness. Consensus suggests that a phase of uncertainty is essential for attaining a deeper understanding.
In today’s world, it often feels like we are adrift, searching for meaning amidst the turmoil of our surroundings and our own thoughts. Each individual is tasked with carving out their own purpose, starting from scratch with no guidance. This journey can be especially challenging in our limited time on Earth. In the era of post modernity, we have consciously disregarded any notion of a shared collective interest or a significant cultural heritage. It’s a solo quest without established support, making the process of self-discovery a complex one. Consequently, we find ourselves compulsively replaying the identical cycles that lead to trauma, aggression, distress, lack of emotional growth, diminished self-worth, and untimely death.
In order for our spirituality to be genuine, it is essential to have an internal experience rather than solely relying on external influences. In today’s society, characterized by materialism and constant stimulation, we often allow others to shape our identity instead of tapping into our own inner resources. This process is not about individualism, but rather about accepting the paradoxical nature of looking within ourselves for authenticity. The essence of evolved spirituality lies in facilitating our inner transformation, urging us to shed our superficial selves to unveil our true essence. Different faith traditions express this concept in their own ways: shedding the façade of our constructed identity is vital for the emergence of our genuine self, radiant and liberated. This process forms the core of personal transformation, where spirituality and psychology intersect harmoniously.
In our contemplative practice, we undergo a profound transformation by releasing our temporary selves, emotions, and thoughts to embrace the eternal and perfect reflection of the Divine presence. Our entire being then serves as a vessel for embodying this deep connection with Love, mirroring the gaze of grace to those around us and possessing an abundance to share with all.
Life begins
For most of us, real life begins when we hit bottom and our belief system doesn’t work anymore. Isn’t it unfortunate that we have to experience gut-wrenching situations before we are likely to ask fundamental questions: Who am I, what am I doing here, what is this all about? If we are serious about these inquiries, the door that leads to our transformation will open.
Transformation is a process of re-framing our consciousness. It brings about a change in our belief systems and in the way we perceive and respond to reality.
Little by little, this transformation heals a lifetime of hurts and frees us from our self-destructive emotions. Once our own pain is eased, we can participate in the healing of others.
The revealed path is the way of pure faith. The divine light of faith becomes alive in us to the degree that we surrender ourselves to the present moment. We bring new dimensions to the situation: a state of spacious heart openness. Letting go, not grabbing. If we understand this, our spiritual journey becomes much easier.
by Frantisek Strouhal and Chantal Robert,
prose from ILLUMINATIONS: Art Embracing Awareness
Cover image © Erik Karits
Essential Transformation ... Psychology, Spirituality & Human Development
What are the Boundaries of Psychology? I've been asking this question, for almost 5 years, to a dear West Kootenay friend & neighbour. He's a retired Psychology teacher & research academic; small in words, but large in wisdom. [He denies the latter attribution.] His long-awaited answer never materialized in words; but it took form as a series of suggestions; things to read, watch or hear. Isn't that the best kind of teaching?
My answer to the question about Boundaries of Psychology is the same as the one I'd apply to Boundaries of Spirituality & Human Development... NONE! ... unless we create our own artificial ones.