Discussion Post I submitted for my Atlantic University TP5005 Course – September 11, 2019
The image that Grof & Grof in The Stormy Search for the Self paint of an individual emerging from a spiritual emergency is someone who is disoriented, tentative, uncertain, and vulnerable. They’ve just experienced likely one of the most intense experiences of their lives and they can be shell-shocked and unsure of themselves. As the authors note, after someone experiences an ego-death, for example, how can they not wonder what comes next (1990, p. 215). It is for these reasons that boundaries – both external and internal – are essential. Someone who does not have the person’s best interest in mind, or worse, is intent on manipulating them for personal gains would have an easy target with such a person. Thus, there should remain a protective layer of close friends and associates around the individual to ward off anyone with bad intentions.
Also, tasks that used to be routine such as work and going to the grocery store can now seem like an insurmountable mountain to climb with someone returning from a spiritual emergency. So, if possible, as the authors suggest, placing limits or boundaries on regular activities is necessary including taking time off from work. Relationships, particularly intimate ones, must also be handled with extreme caution given the raw state the individuals find themselves. Open and honest dialogue with partners is essential, and it’s certainly not a time to start a new relationship particularly one that’s physical. Internal boundaries are equally important. As the authors point out, there is no need for intense spiritual activities or even psychotherapy (1990, p. 215). Again, the individual has just experienced the most extreme spiritual experience of their lives and a period of normalcy is what they need the most.
A person returning from a spiritual emergency will be disoriented. Their old worldview was just shattered and they may have even experienced a death ritual that shook them to their core. Now they are returning to their “old life” and while the surroundings are the same, they’re not. It’s similar to when Froddo in The Lord of the Rings returns to the Shire after his harrowing experience in Mordor. He’s changed so much he can’t even remain where he so desperately tried to return to and he must once again strike out on his own. The authors point to how the individual can experience mind games, convincing themselves that they must have been crazy and that there’s no way it happened. They can also feel lonely and isolated, further exacerbating their sense of not belonging (1990, p. 221).
Having a spiritual director, teacher, shaman, or transpersonal psychologist who understands spiritual emergencies accessible to the person is key to helping them not go down the rabbit holes the mind can create. A support group of others who have experienced a similar experience is also very helpful to ease the questions raised in the mind, similar to how A.A. and other 12-step programs are helpful. Finally, a core group of non-judging, compassionate, and concerned family members and friends is essential upon their return.
Reference
Grof C. and Groff S., M.D. (1990), The stormy search for the self, Jeremy P. Tarcher, Inc.: Los Angeles, CA.