James Ray: Tragedy at Retreat

Tragedy at Retreat should be a flag to many

Let me first say that my heart goes out to James, his students and their families as I am confident that only the best of intentions were present for all. I also can’t help but add my comentary on an issue that has been under my skin about the progression of spirituality and new age self improvement. I’ve never been to one of James’ retreats. I have seen him speak and read some of his books. I share many of his beliefs and philosophies about how the world works and the progression of the human spirit and I believe he has a real intention to make the world a better place. The tragedy was an accident. I have had a fair share of experience with accidents. Sometimes they happen and there is no making sense of them.

What is making sense to me today is a problem being overlooked in this movement in general that I see in many leaders and I’m not pointing to any specific one and certainly not James (as I said I have never been to one of his retreats and only know about the incident according to news reports, the incident is just making me think).

Just like religious leaders have done for thousand of years, many spiritual teachers are not facilitators of self exploration but rather teachers of rules and truths and the “correct” answers. This really is a timeless business model and realitstically the power behind the sell. People buy answers and we have been for thousands of years. Is that wrong? Well, not entirely. If I don’t know how to fix something that’s broken I’m willing to pay someone who does. I can’t possibly know everything and don’t have the time, energy or desire to be the ultimate in “do it yourself” living. But I’m not really talking about fixing a flat tire or a broken dishwasher. This industry attempts to fix people using labels of transformation, progression, healing and higher awareness. I beleive in all those things and I also believe that there are many many people out there that are delivering what they promise. The problem I see is that I wouldn’t hire just anyone to fix my car and assume that I would drive away in a safe vehicle and yet that’s what we see happening in coaching everyday. One of the largest money making sectors in coaching is simply making more coaches….certified in…??? . No one really knows and fair enough that doesn’t make them bad afterall who is to say that our trust should be placed in government licensure or academic degree programs anyway. I’m simply pointing out that the success of the coach is based on their fan base as any artist’s would be. Oh…light bulb! Coaches aren’t selling themselves as artists or even philosophers that help to shed light on the human condition and let their fans integrate that into their lives in their own way. Most of them are selling themselves as scientist who have the proven answers and facts. In fact, I am probably gulity of having done the same.

Just who are we willing to believe? If you’re wanting to learn about prosperity should you be learning it from someone who has only become prosperous by teaching prosperity? I don’t know the answer to that but I have to admit it’s an interesting question. There’s no monopoly on universal truth. You have just as much insight into it as anyone else. Sharing that insight just as with all information moves us all forward but you have just as much right to contribute to the Spiritual library shelf as I do. As long as you make sure that you’re sharing what you believe and not the only correct answer which is likely not the only correct answer.

Thousands of years ago a less mature version of mankind may have needed more absolutes in life. Today, we have scientifically proven many. When it comes to spirituality though, it’s a philosophy. One that many, including myself, believe has a scientific aspect to it. Can we prove that? In some ways yes, in most ways – not really. There are many many questions left unanswered that the best of the best speakers have a script ready to answer anyway. That’s what we are paying them for isn’t it? Just like religion has progressed, maybe i’ts time for a softer and more participant inclusive sell. Wow, Im risking cynicism here, and I’m sure some very “gifted healers” out there are reading this right now and seeing self sabotage or some other top ranked, kitchy keyword written all over the page. That’s okay, they don’t know me even if they claim to be able to remote view me or some other awe inspiring claim aimed at leveraging their credibility or authority. Sorry, I’m wearing my super Jayne cape today that protects me from all psychic intrusion.

In closing, go to the events you feel drawn to, the seminars that call out to heal you and by all means read the books that look helpful. And hey, I’m not ashamed to suggest my own be on the list. Those philosophies have been very enlightening to me and I’ve shared them as well as some very revealing and raw information about myself. It’s how I see the world but I’m only looking through one window. You have one too.

Remember that YOU are your own best advisor. What makes sense to me may be completely ridiculous to you. After openly and honestly listening to what others believe or suggest may help you fix whatever is broken in your life you are ultimatley the soul owner of the tool box. Everything else is just a suggestion. Some suggestions are simply taken a little too far.