Concerns & Alternatives

Hi [Waking Down teacher],

Good to hear from you as well...! Here are some thoughts for now - reflecting my own experience (which is based on my own history, hang-ups etc. and nothing "absolute"). I know that some of my concerns have been addressed already such as "core wound".

Terminology

My main concern is overdramatization. It seems that some terms used in Waking Down are more dramatic than they need to be, and thus bring attention to themselves rather than the processes they point to. I would be more comfortable with a terminology that is more neutral and bring less attention to itself. Ironically enough, this would be a terminology that I experience as more grounded...!

Examples:

• Core wound
  This term seems to indicate something that was healthy, now is "wounded", and can be healed, instead of pointing to a polarity that is just a part of human existence. Core mystery is a term that I am more comfortable with.
  
  
• Hypermasculinity
  This term seems a little charged and judgmental to me. It is also somewhat impresise or vague. I am not sure if I understand well what is meant by hypermasculinity, so my alternative here may be a little off. I would be more comfortable with something like "blind duality" (this term may be seen as a little judgmental as well!). Blind duality points to a fragmented and alienating worldview, where we identify with one part of existence (the good or ideal) and try to change the rest to conform, instead of just relaxing into it and transforming our relationship with it.
  
  
• The Rot
  I am more OK with this one, although the phrase "dark night of the being" hits home better for me.
  
  

My other concerns may have more to do with Saniel's particular approach. I have not seen this so much in other Waking Down folks.

Overgeneralizations

I have some concerns when someone puts other traditions down, or take aspects of some traditions and generalize to all traditions. If we are truly comfortable with our own path and realizations, this does not seem necessary. Instead, it is possible to just point to the processes that (from the WD perspective) are counterproductive, without identifying them with particular traditions (people will know what you are talking about anyway). Treat other traditions with appreciation and respect, and you are less likely to put people off and more likely to establish a good relationship with them and find mutual appreciation and respect. Where is the mutuality in habitually putting other traditions down?

People's Backgrounds

I feel that the teachings/materials are aimed at people with a particular background (mainly "spiritual seekers" who has been involved with specific traditions from India). My background is somewhat different in several ways, as I have always been seeking grounding and integration (have never been a "spiritual seeker" in the usual sense), and that I have a background in traditions that focus on just grounding and integration - not very different from Waking Down. This brings up an experience for me of not being seen/acknowledged, which can be another obstacle for people new to Waking Down. I know it was/is for me. It may be good to create a "map" that includes a wider range of the possible backgrounds that people may have who come to Waking Down, and then use this map explicitly in the teachings. This will help people appreciate even more the diversity of people attracted to it (and the unique gifts/insights each brings), and help new people feel seen.

This is all that comes up for me now. I'll be happy to have a phone conversation about it as well if that is helpful!

Be well,
Per