A Rational Basis for Spiritual Belief

A Rational Basis for Spiritual Belief with Grandfather Rick McBride; this class is taught from the Native American perspective. The idea spiritual belief can also be rational, according to the definitions, is determined by choice. And that choice is, very simply, what we decide is real and what we decide is not real. Western science is not the only science. Indigenes worldwide have long and accurately understood physical reality, non-physical reality, and that which binds them together. So-called western science and its companion religion have carved their respective territories out of the universe, leaving precious little for any others, and have informed their devotees of some of the most bizarre notions ever conceived that would otherwise be amusing, were it not for the violent and destructive history they leave in their wake. Indigenes accept and understand the universe as it is by embracing personal experience. Even when it challenges our idea of normal. To help you jump outside the mainstream box, we will look not only at the differences between mainstream rationalism and indigenous empiricism, you will learn: * The differences in language structures (helpful in understanding Native American lifeways, and ceremony and spiritual wisdom: linear thinking v. circular thinking, objectification v. relationship.) * How cultural differences affected history and where we are today. * How to develop and evolve your realtionships not only with spirits and the spirit world, but with other humans, animals, trees, the Earth, the stars, even rocks. * How natural cycles are understood and how to come into harmony with them to improve and enrich your life. * What myths about Indian people are true and what are not. * What are the personal benefits to you of understanding how Indian people have been misrepresented in mainstream society. * To accept the possibility that “extra-normal,” or paranormal experiences are natural and denying them is unnatural, which creates a false or skewed understanding of life, death, and life continuing on into the spirit world. Join us to find out how all this fits together and how becoming aware of these facts and ideas can make your life better.

Rick McBride is mixedblood Tsalagi (Cherokee) who has walked the Red Road for over 35 years. He was named Cante Lute (Schan-tay Lou-tuh) by the spirits through his sundance chief, which means Red Heart. He is a sundancer and has been traditionally trained and authorized to lead ceremonies, such as inipi (purification lodge), prayer with the Canunpah (Pipe), drum healing and so forth. He has been publicly teaching these ways for over 14 years now. Workshops and lectures are one way to learn from the wisdom of Indian Country. Ceremony brings this knowledge to life. Combined, teaching and ceremony render practical guidance to everyday living. And so, Rick sees his role as that of “translator” of indigenous ways so that mainstream-educated people get the full benefit of these ways. It has taken him years of dedicated interaction with many Elders, as well as his activities as ceremonial leader to get to this place in his life. For further information, visit his website: http://www.mixedblood.info (http://www.mixedblood.info/)