Scientific thinking currently governs our definitions of `reality`, should be supplemented by a spiritual or holistic dimension. It is also generally agreed that this should be an authentic and well-informed spirituality, one based not on narrow definitions of doctrinal religions but using frameworks for studying universal aspects of the spiritual experience, thereby transcending cultural differences. Transpersonal psychologist Frances Vaughan, addressing an international conference on integrating ancient wisdom and modern science, expressed it well when he said: `Science without wisdom can destroy the world; wisdom without science remains ineffectual. The transpersonal perspective sees the Eastern and Western approaches as complementary, and recognizes the transcendental mystical unity of all religions`.

One especially positive aspect of the New Age movement is its sense of spiritual open-endedness and receptivity. The fact that it has no dominant or entrenched doctrinal position, and is willing to absorb perennial wisdom teachings from both East and West while also accommodating insights based on new scientific discoveries, seems to me to be very much in its favour. In Orthodox Judaism, Christianity and Islam, by way of contrast, it is much more difficult to maintain the same degree of intellectual and spiritual flexibility. These religions are based on unique spiritual revelations from founder-prophets, and in turn became grounded in doctrinal frameworks. This explains the contradiction for example, that even now, in the twenty-first century; Christian Creationists choose to ignore the presence of the fossil record, reverting instead to fundamentalist interpretations of The Book Of Genesis that is clearly at odd with scientific discoveries. The New Age movement remain much more open to new ideas and scientific advances.

Do not believe in what you have heard. Do not believe in traditions because they have been handed down from many generations. Do not believe anything because it is rumoured and spoken of by many. Do not believe merely because the written statement of some old sage is produced. Do not believe in conjectures. Do not believe merely in the authority of your teachers and elders. After observation and analysis, when it agrees with reason and it is conducive to the good and benefit of one and all, then accept it and live up to it.

Frances Vaughan has explained;

We cannot just talk about spirituality; it needs to be an experiential realization. Enlightenment does not come simply from following the wisdom teachings. It comes from direct experience…. This works is also important in our emphasis on community, which translates intellectual work and personal transformation into community service.

I have always tried to follow my own beliefs and reasons, there are many questions that need to be asked from all mankind and for those who have already started on the long journey of trying to find your answers, and may you enjoy your experiences that the universe has to offer you.  

What plays a huge part of you life? "Nature". Science and New Age are seekers of the truth, let's work together.

                             HAPPINESS IS ONLY A SMILE AWAY