The Path of the Mystic: A Journey to Higher Understanding

In the episode of The Builders of the Mystic Circle podcast, host Mark A. Short discusses what it means to be a mystic and the transformative power of mysticism in our daily lives. Mysticism is explained as an understanding that reality extends beyond what we see or touch, connecting us to a higher divine entity. Mysticism enriches our understanding of, rather than distancing us from, reality by providing a broader perspective and deeper insights. The misconception of mysticism being an escape from reality is debunked, along with the myth linking mysticism to the lack of intelligence. Historical figures like Isaac Newton and Leonardo da Vinci are mentioned as examples of those who harmonized their intellectual and mystical pursuits. The podcast also explains how the experiences of mystics can't be proven or measured scientifically but can be deeply felt and experienced. Core mystical beliefs discussed include interconnectedness, illusions of evil and time, and the existence of a higher consciousness. The ultimate goal of mysticism, as discussed, is to reunite with the Source and awaken to one's true nature. The episode ends with a call to living mysticism by engaging in practices such as meditation, reflection, and questioning.

Quote Sources:

Albert Einstein – "The most beautiful thing we can experience is the mysterious. It is the source of all true art and science."

Source: Einstein, A. (1931). The World As I See It.

Mahatma Gandhi – "The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others."

Source: Gandhi, M. (1948). Collected Works of Mahatma Gandhi.

Blaise Pascal – "The heart has its reasons, which reason knows nothing of."

Source: Pascal, B. (1670). Pensées.

Ralph Waldo Emerson – "What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us."

Source: Emerson, R.W. (1841). Essays: First Series.

Albert Einstein (Second quote) – "The only real valuable thing is intuition."

Source: Einstein, A. (Interview, 1929). Saturday Evening Post. If you have further interest in mysticism, go to Rosicrucian.org.