Layers of Reality, Layers of Identity

Have you ever noticed that reality seems to change depending on how closely you look? At one level, the world follows the predictable laws of Newtonian physics: apples fall, machines run, bodies move. But zoom in further, and Einstein shows us that space and time themselves bend and ripple. Go even deeper into the quantum fabric, and certainty dissolves into probabilities and paradox.

What if this isn’t just “out there” in the universe, but also “in here” — in our own consciousness? Just as physics reveals different truths depending on the scale, we too can discover layers of identity: the everyday “gross” self, the subtle inner realms of mind and energy, and the causal dimension of pure awareness.

Buddhist teachings on relative and absolute reality point to this same unfolding. And Integral Theory helps us map how different stages of development shape not only what we experience, but who we believe ourselves to be. Together, these perspectives invite us into a richer, more compassionate way of holding our lives — one that lessens suffering and opens the possibility of being a clearer force for good in the world.

During our last gathering, we focused more on the mapping of 'waking up' and understanding how contemplative practices like meditation help us unfold our state experiences to be more spacious, blissful, loving and all-embracing. This next session will offer more details and explanation of how to manifest these qualities out in the world (what Integral calls 'growing up') so we can act with more skill, compassion and in alignment with our highest values.

Join our group of seekers who are exploring how to marry timeless wisdom with the knowledge and insights of the 21st century. This session will explore human development maps from Integral Theory, and include time for small group discussion and Q&A.

Teacher/Facilitator This session will be led by Christopher Lawley, who has been practicing and training in the universalist Namgyal lineage of Vajrayana Buddhism and Western Mysteries for close to 2 decades with the Clear Sky Center sangha and Planet Dharma. Christopher is also steeped in Integral Theory and uses it to inform how he works with individuals and groups. He is also on the organizing committee of the Integral Conference of North America (ICON) which will be taking place in May 2026 in Denver, Colorado.

Dāna - Pay from the Heart
Everyone is welcome to participate regardless of financial circumstances. Please join us and offer whatever feels generous given your means. There will be a bowl at the door.
Click here to learn more about how dāna (the Pali word for generosity) is both ancient (rooted in timeless wisdom) and cutting-edge (offering a trans-capitalist model).