Greetings All,
I have only recently come across the Brotherhood, but am fascinated by everything i have read so far and so looking forward to posting on this forum and learning more.
Im 37 years old, male, living in Australia (although I'm English). Like a few people here I started out as a teenager listening to metal then black metal and CoS Satanism. I wasnt raised religious in anyway but just had a natural interest in spirituality, religion and symbolism, so my initial interest in Cos was natural to me; however, I quickly grew out of that mode of thinking, seeing social Darwinism to be a dead end (in my own opinion).
Over the last 23 years or so I have studied various traditions, including Advaita Vedanta, Sufism and Buddhism, and have established my own meditation practice over the last 10 years. Ive struggled to find my spiritual 'home' as I never want to lose my identity as seems to be the requirement for many traditions; I always identify with the rebels, rather than the herd.
After a few very profound 'peak' meditation experiences I spent a good few years reading many non-dual texts, but actually realised fairly recently that I needed to work more on, and further develop/build, my self rather than negate it. I have then started reading more psychology recently, working on my mindset, faith in myself, routines etc I think this has been the missing piece for me, especially as I have struggled with depression for most of my life.
I hold a non-dual view of reality, but rather than getting lost in that 'its all a dream, you dont need to do anything' line, Im more about being a creative agent in my life, taking action, responsibility etc. (although i still believe that Enlightenment is possible). I actually believe that it doesnt really matter which archetypes you work with and use for rituals and prayers, as long as your intention is one of self mastery, fully knowing oneself, excellence and, above all, experiential understanding based on Knowing (as opposed to book knowledge).
I am hoping to establish more ritual and ceremony for my practice as i feel its the missing piece for me. I am also interested in learning more about basic magick.
I think thats about enough for now!
Any questions, comments etc then just let me know.