One World in a New World with John McDonald – Libertarian Yogi, Spiritual Teacher
John relating as a young boy he felt in this world but not of it, jumping in with answering the proverbial question of when he first noticed his inner connection. Much later in life, with a crazy CV and stellar corporate success, everything plummeted into destitute homelessness. A slow ascent back into life came afterward. We explore the insights and wisdom garnered along the way.
Speaking as a recovering alcoholic, ‘hard core’ in his words. He admits that he had to be drug into the personal inner journey kicking and screaming, though he eventually acquiesced to the process. He shares that the corporate climb and working with management by objective Western-oriented companies seemed like that was what he was supposed to do. How did that fail him? Listen in.
He offers an interesting perspective in acknowledging that folks might ask, “Just who do you think your are to call yourself a spiritual teacher?” His response is quite illustrative of the dedication it takes to even consider the title, let alone its activity.
We often miss the benefits of wisdom acquired through trials and tribulations, devoted practice and spiritual understanding that our geriatrically gifted population carries, just waiting hopefully for someone to ask them questions about what matters most in life to them. John’s life is not uncommon, though it is uncommon to be able to examine the fruits of them.
We have a brief conversation about the Live and Let Live Movement, which he says ‘got him’ as soon as he saw it. Living life free of aggression and as a good human is good for humanity. Zen’s mention of being able to have deep conversations that delve into issues with psychological safety and intellectual humility, which prompts John’s response, “Isn’t there such beauty in the capacity to agree to differ?”
We all evolve in understanding each other as a result, and with less resistance to the other, it give the opportunity for opinions to change because of thoughtful engagement and an openness toward questioning our own position. If we are indeed reflections of each other, we can be peaceful in our conversations that help us learn to work together better toward common goals that benefit all.
Connect with John on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnduncanmcdonald/
______________
Connect with Zen on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/zenbenefiel
Live and Let Live Movement: https://liveandletlive.org
Zen’s Story….
Stubbing My T.O.E. on Purpose: https://amzn.to/3AcnzfW
Zen’s Digital Vitae: https://zenbenefiel.com
Zen’s One-Sheet: https://bit.ly/zen-one-sheet