Myths about Mysticism
Having an interest in mysticism can be isolating in that people shy away from discussions of deeper truths simply because it can be uncomfortable and revealing. I hold my tongue more than speak my truth, the exception being this blog in which I have created a space to lay my opinions bare. It acts as a safe space to explore ideas that when spoken create so much misunderstanding. The few times in which I have mentioned my study of mysticism to an acquaintance, I have received the most amusing replies. I have heard my ideas are strange, new age like, evil, magical, you name it, I have heard it.
The true mystic is always both humble and compassionate, for she knows that she does not know.
Richard Rohr
It is important to reiterate that a true student of mysticism understands that they really do not know what they think they do. I do not believe one has to be a student of mysticism to come to this understanding, age and wisdom will bring many to this point naturally. It can be alarming to become aware of this, especially after the hubris of the 20’s, 30’s and early 40’s when one can do no wrong. It is a humbling experience to be sure. With that being said, I give you my myths of mysticism.
All people who study mysticism are religious
This is a hard myth to bust. I myself am a waned churchgoer. Some will say that without a practice rooted in religion, mystics can go astray. I do think a foundation of practice is a good stepping stone allowing for some perspective and framework. Then again, mysticism is defined as a personal relationship with God achieved by experiences. Sure, some will use different vocabulary: God, the Other, the Divine, something greater than oneself…. all of these speak to me on some level. That being said, I do not consider myself particularly religious, I consider myself spiritual (as my Catholic and Orthodox family omits an audible Gasp!). It does not matter to me how I am labeled. The labels are for others, not for me.
Mysticism makes people rigid or conservative
This makes me laugh. If you know my son, you know that he is the living breathing version of the DeadPool character. He calls himself a lovable asshole and I think this description rings true most of the time. If you ask him where he gets his wit and sarcasm, he always points to me. Granted, I clean up well. Out in the world and when meeting people I am polite, business like and well mannered. At home, my family gets to hear all of my opinions and sharp retorts and we have a lot of fun verbally sparring. I also love to make people laugh and usually at my own expense. What is this life if not humorous?
I am weird, you are weird. Everyone in this world is weird. One day two people come together in mutual weirdness and fall in love.
~ Dr. Seuss
Mystics are weird
Who isn’t? We are all a tad bit weird in our own way. Define weird and maybe we can talk. The very nature of mysticism is to accept others with love regardless of how they are showing up in the world. If that is weird or out of the box, I am very disappointed in where we have come as a society. I believe weird is often used interchangeably with being misunderstood. If a person is living a life that is different, they are labeled as weird. If that is the only reason people may say that I am weird, so be it.
Mysticism is dark magic
Put down the Harry Potter book and walk away…. This one is so far off base that it does not even justify a response. It again boils down to labeling things that are different and “scary” in an effort to make sense of them. The sad thing is that most people I know who have an interest in mysticism are the sweetest, most generous and loving souls. They certainly believe in a soul and the power of a connection with a greater energy. If that is dark magic…sign me up.
“The business and method of mysticism is love.”
Evelyn Underhill
Mystics are self-absorbed egocentric people
As Evelyn Underhill states, mystics are in the business of love. This is not only love of self but of all others. If you come across one that is self-centered, they are not paying attention. Loving others as they are, without judgment, is one of the most valuable lessons I have learned from this journey. We all have preconceived notions of how others should act and be present in the world. Maybe these are not purposeful notions, but inherited. I have worked hard on letting false ideas go. Loving without condition is one of the greatest challenges in life and mysticism does nothing but assist with this goal.
Mysticism is a science or philosophy not a spiritual practice
Enough already with the need to label every darn thing. Yes, there is a scientific layer to aspects of the universe as an expanding arena of possibilities. Similarly, philosophical exploration is definitely found along the path of the mystic. Why the need to put in a box that which can never be fully understood? Is it really that scary to admit that we do not know what we think we do? This statement comes from a place of ego and is not one that I give any credence to.
“It has taken me quite a few years to realize the fact that most of the thoughts in my head are not necessary.”
Bert McCoy
Mysticism is an ancient practice
This myth is actually true. Mystics have been exploring the deeper questions for thousands of years. The commitment to this exploration demonstrates that the answers we are seeking may never be found but are well worth the effort. It is in the journey that mystics mature, learning from experience and trying to become better each day.
For all of these reason and more, I find myself enthralled by mysticism. It grants permission to continually ask of myself the who, what and why of existence. These are the eternal questions that have piqued peoples interest and puzzled for thousands of years. By doing so, I uncover more layers of self and hopefully become a better person for it. It is indeed fascinating work.