ONLINE Wed, Jan 7: "What can you Trust, What do you Believe?"

We could say that beliefs are necessary for survival, but do you distinguish between beliefs and truths?
Let's investigate your thoughts on three topics: Are you a do-er; Is there an "I"; Is there a Higher Self?

Example #1:
It has been suggested that the observer creates reality when he moves into it, such as into the forest.
It seems what was possible for indigenous peoples is not possible for us. How is the forest that we enter different for us from what it is for the Indian? Are some things possible and others not because of our paradigm compared to that of the Indian? To what degree is reality based upon beliefs, so that an entire population might form its own reality due to shared beliefs and world view. Does that world view then become truth? Some say that beliefs can change the laws of physics, or at least human health. So, is the truth that beliefs have agency, that a person can become a do-er, change reality as a believe-er?"

Example #2:
In the various approaches to self-inquiry, it is generally agreed upon that there is no "I" but rather it is an identity. The "authorities in self-inquiry" claim they have found that to be the Truth.
To the vast majority of humanity, however, it would be absurd to believe that "I" does not exist, besides, they would claim the "I" would be living the life, a being with free-will, the one who claims to be alive. Even most religions teach there is an "I" who strives for salvation, liberation or eternal life. There are whole sciences based upon the existence of an "I". What's the truth about an "I"?

Example #3:
Do Buddhism and Catholicism teach Truths or suggest beliefs? Are their teachings in opposition to each other?
Why has the Church changed it's teachings as to who goes to heaven or to hell after death over the years? Why does one branch of Buddhism say there exists a Higher Self or Higher Force and another branch says it does not exist? What's the truth about a Higher Self?