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Shared Transformation Newsletter
By El Collie
The Following is an excerpt from Issue #1:
From 1993--2000, we published Shared Transformation newsletter to provide support, exchange information and explore experiences with those of us who are undergoing a phenomenal inner process. Considering that life is itself a transformational journey, in which we evolve inwardly and outwardly from birth to death, in the broadest sense, every one of us is engaged in some degree of transformation.
Our newsletter was specifically addressed to those involved in sudden and astonishing alterations of consciousness. These processes occur as spontaneous and often dramatic physical, mental, emotional, psychic and spiritual changes.
While they remain in the realm of the extraordinary, such experiences have been recorded in every culture of the world for thousands of years. Yet in recent times, from my own observations and from what I am hearing from others, it appears that we may be in the midst of a global shift in consciousness. Increasing numbers of people from around the world are finding themselves plunged into unexpected and mysterious processes. These range from sudden episodes of emotional catharsis to radical shifts in mental outlook. They may involve visions and revelations, or inexplicable and undiagnosed illness. Or they may take the form of paranormal encounters, psychic openings, or full blown Kundalini awakenings.
What is the purpose of these experiences? What are we transforming into? The vast literature on this subject offers many wondrous answers: physical and psychological well-being; expanded awareness of Self and cosmos; personal wholeness; internal and external harmony; union with the divine; greater capacities and richer life experience; bliss and vitality; and increased sensitivity, often with the development of psychic gifts or "siddhis".
Yet for those of us swept into the vortex of transformational forces, it's generally an uncertain and difficult process. Rather than feeling ourselves on the brink of a glorious rebirth, we may feel confused, fearful, sick, or crazy. We seem more like emotional and physical basket cases than candidates for enlightenment. We may swerve from feelings of awe and reverence to disgust and despair; from experiences of profound connectedness to stark alienation. Often we wonder if we will ever be fully functional in the world again. And we may seriously question how such strange and painful experiences can possibly be leading to anything worthwhile.
It can be deeply reassuring to realize that we are not alone in this process. And it can be encouraging to learn that many of the emotional, physical or psychic experiences that appear negative or frightening to us are a natural phase of transformation. Even the more mystical and magical aspects of the process become more real to us when we discover that others have had similar or identical experiences.
Through Shared Transformation, we want to offer such validation, inspiration, hope and encouragement to one another. A woman I know, having gone through a four and a half year intense Kundalini awakening with no clue of what was happening to her, announced emphatically, "No one should have to go through this alone." I think she's right. Let's reach out to one another, so we can go through it together.
Comments from our Readers
"Thanks for the encouragement your newsletter provides." A. W., Wyoming
"What you are doing is wonderful!" C. T., California
"It helps to know I am not alone in all this." P. H., Ohio
"What a relief it is to know there is an explanation for these symptoms." A. R., Massachusetts
"I can't tell you how happy and supported I feel to have come across this newsletter." M. S., Germany
"Keep up the great work -- just love what you're doing." P. W., Pennsylvania
"I enjoy, learn and feel comforted by the articles and letters in ST newsletter." E.C., Arizona
"Thank you for a wonderful newsletter chock full of valuable info." F.L., California