Stephen Thomson

The Search for Initiation

By Stephen Thomson

 

“There is a Path that leads to that which is known as Initiation

and through Initiation to the Perfecting of Man.”

                                                                         Annie Besant

 

The natural progression of life, as spiritual people, is to a place where we finally understand that every aspect of being and all of life is a spiritual experience.  With this understanding comes a subset of knowing – that most of the steps along the path are paved by initiation.  And in our community, initiation is something all of us are seeking.  It is the one step we pursue, because we know that with it comes an irrevocable change on a soul level.  In an instant we are changed forever.  Vibration shifts and our energy are more refined.  And at this point in our journey, we embody a more purified personal energy.  We are open and more receptive to the subtle energy of the Universe.   In turn, we blend more fully with the one that is the all. 

A wide variety of initiations has existed for centuries and is a part of life in spiritual communities. There are initiations for birth, coming into adulthood, being partnered and even transition to another plane upon death.  There are also the types of initiation we actively seek – the ones that transfer spiritual energy and power into our being.  An example of this is the initiations of The Mystery School Tradition of Egypt.  Here, an initiate studies the teachings and is then presented with a series of tests.  The examination determines how well the teachings have been learned and integrated, not only into daily life, but also on a soul level.  The initiate is tested for spiritual and moral strength, rather than intellectual and physical.  To pass the tests of an initiation, results in advancement, and gaining access to the next level of teachings.  The desired result is achieved - a deeper connection with the Cosmic.

In our daily life, the most frequent and recognizable form of initiation happens as a part of each passing day.  We are always searching for and moving forward.  The loss of a job, the end of a relationship, even illness is an example.  These are the tests that happen as a precursor to initiation. That includes a change in consciousness and a different way of looking at our lives and in our relationship with god.

 

There are times we actively set up the energy for an initiation to happen.  Our consciousness, acting on a soul impulse, suggests that change is necessary and necessary for our continued growth.  First, energy accumulates and then an opportunity presents itself for an initiation occurs.  By contrast, there are times we are not aware of what we are doing or what we have done that results in initiation happening. Initiation can come about through a formalized approach or, administered through spiritual ceremonies. Each of these places represents an ending or beginning - the start or the finish.  Either way, initiation is a time of pausing, looking at how far we have come and a gathering sense of our next step.

 

The Flower of Life is a study, for example, that is all about reconnecting the physical and psychic bodies to higher dimensions.  In mastering the techniques for the purposes of healing and soul growth is the usual hallmark of an initiatic experience.  In almost every corner of the world are indigenous groups who welcome non-members into their ceremonies.  In the United States there are opportunities to participate in Sweat Lodges in every state.  Or we can search out and join some organization that has a process of initiation.  For example, Self- Realization Fellowship – a worldwide spiritual movement based on the teaching of Paramahansa Yogananda, offers a series of initiation as a part of their studies.

There is also having the opportunity to travel and study with Drunvalo, for example.  It seems that everywhere he goes in the world; people are sharing their sacred teachings with him and to those who travel with him.   In the very core to these ancient traditions is the basic experience of initiation.  The formula is in place – a mystical- spiritual site, the people are there to pass on the tradition, and lives are transformed by the energy.  Dru’s work continues to present opportunity for initiation.  The very essence of what he does, how he moves around the world is a good example of ways to enter into situations that will guarantee intuition.