Spirtual Ego and Narcissism
This is a conversation that a lot of spiritual people from the black Dispera need to talk about
Spiritual narcissism and elitism in the spiritual community is a real thing. A lot of people think that just because they practice a certain spiritual religion that they are more powerful than other people who practice a different fraction of ATRs. I've realized that a lot of new age practitioners are practical and don't move in the spirit. Anti intellectualism is rising without doing any historical research about the trans Atlantic slave trade . Slavery and african spiritual systems co-exist with each other.
Historal events and power
Researching slavery throughout the African Dispera is very important. The more intense the condition that black people went throught the more potent those spirits are. EX, this is my personal opinion. Hoodoo,Candomble, and Umbanda are the most powerful forms of atr because during slavery the colonizers were more ruthless, and the Africans had to create tactics to defend themselves. brazil was the last major western country to abolish slavery (1888), and it's a very huge country. That energy of colonization and systematic racisim has still left its fingerprint. When traveling to bihia Brazil and witnessing those ceremonies, the energy is so intense that people will start to get outer body experience because afro- brazilian are very connected to their nigerian roots. They haven't assimilated like other black people when it comes to celebrating their religion. When it comes to Hoodoo, chattel slavery in America was very brutal ( go to the african American museum in WASHINGTON DC) certain part of Louisiana is very haunted and black people in America still have to fight for thier rights. So much b***d has been shed on this land that peoples ancestors will work very fast(similar to Palo mayombe in terms of quickness)( A lot of AA ppl have ancestors from the Congo especially in North/south carloina and Memphis). That why when I see people be talking crazy about southern african American women ( I just shake my head especially if they from Louisiana,Memphis, Mississippi, North and South Carolina) read the history in those states , especially Mississippi and Louisiana (America is a big country). Look at those recent plantations fires .This is why ego without education is a very bad mix because a lot of people think just because their culture is more known for their work and that they have expertise in everything. People who operate like that are usually taught a universal lesson, lol. Reading is very important.
Yin and Yang
Balance and staying grounded is virtue. Life is a teacher, and you are constantly a student. The goal is not perfection. Perfection doesn't exists. .Light and darkness is both needed.People think just because you're spiritual you have to a good all the time and turn the left cheek. That is very dangerous. some times it's ok to be a fire cracker and beat up a b***h lol ( I don't promotes volience) thier are times that you have to tap into your dark nature to handle certain types of people. We live in a world full of angels and demons and you have to be smart. Balance is 🔑 .
Elitism
Nobody is better than anyone. We are all going to the grave. Titles hype and cliques mean nothing in the spiritual world.The spiritual world sees your soul and those spirits know if your intentions are good. The people who always have the most powerful energies behind them are the most humble or they understand the concept of living in the world, but don't be of it. Bible reference). The world is temporarily, and it's very transactional. Nothing is real, and everyone is wearing a mask. Don't every be sacred of anyone.
Stay Balance
My spiritual journey has taught me much, especially about discerning genuine growth from what I've come to call 'spiritual narcissism' or 'spiritual ego.' When I initially looked into 'key points of a narcissist,' I realized these traits aren’t confined to secular relationships; they can subtly infect spiritual communities too. Recognizing these signs is vital for fostering authentic connection and personal evolution. One pervasive sign I’ve observed is the 'I’m more enlightened' stance. This manifests when someone constantly emphasizes their superior spiritual knowledge, unique connections, or advanced practices. They might subtly – or not so subtly – diminish others' chosen paths or experiences, implying their way is the sole 'true' or potent one. I’ve seen this within discussions about African Traditional Religions (ATRs), where some, despite honoring profound traditions, can still fall into spiritual elitism. It’s less about sharing wisdom and more about a spiritual ego seeking validation through perceived superiority. Another 'key point' is the weaponization of spiritual concepts. This happens when profound teachings are twisted to control, manipulate, or avoid accountability. Think of phrases like, 'You’re simply not holding enough light,' or 'Your negative energy attracted this outcome,' used to deflect responsibility or silence legitimate concerns. It's a power dynamic, prioritizing intellectual dominance over genuine compassion or guidance. This really highlighted for me how easily beautiful spiritual principles can be distorted. Then there's the lack of genuine empathy, often veiled as detachment. While speaking of 'love and light,' their actions can betray a belief that they are somehow above the struggles of others. They might dismiss pain as a 'lesson' without offering true support, or they might struggle to accept constructive criticism, believing their spiritual status makes them infallible. My experience tells me that true spiritual growth deepens, rather than lessens, empathy and a willingness to learn from all. I've also noted a constant craving for external validation. A truly grounded spiritual person doesn't need to continually prove their connection or power. However, those with spiritual narcissistic tendencies often broadcast their spiritual achievements, divine interactions, or profound insights, constantly seeking admiration. It shifts the focus from internal transformation to external acclaim, echoing the original article's insight that titles and cliques hold no true meaning in the spiritual world; only the soul matters. Finally, and something the original article powerfully highlights, is the dismissal of historical context or diverse paths. When someone disregards academic research or the lived experiences of different communities, especially concerning the roots and evolution of ATRs, it signals intellectual arrogance. They cling to a narrow, unchallenged view, rather than embracing the rich, complex tapestry of spiritual practice. Recognizing these 'key points of a narcissist' within a spiritual context isn't about judgment. It's about cultivating discernment, protecting your energy, and fostering spaces of authentic growth and humility. My journey has taught me that true spirituality isn't about being 'above' anyone, but about connecting deeply – with ourselves, our ancestors, and the divine – always striving for balance. Even amidst beautiful ceremonies with 'lit white candles' and practitioners in 'traditional white attire,' the most profound work happens within, far from the grasp of an inflated ego.
Beautifully said