What is Consciousness?

This is a question that’s been debated, pondered, and wrestled with for thousands of years. Mystics, children, artists, people who’ve had a near-death experience, and open-minded scientists and theologians all seem to know what it is. Yet it is endlessly difficult to explain or define. I think that part of the Gordian Knot of consciousness is that it is both multi-dimensional and highly contextual for each person that experiences it. Keeping with the intention of only writing about what I’ve experienced, I will attempt to explain my discoveries about consciousness.

It seems as if there are three kinds of consciousness: soul, mind, and social. Each is distinctly different but there are some common traits. Each kind of consciousness starts with awareness/awakening. Each kind includes some sort of calling. Each kind is relational. And each is both iterative and overlapping and is in continual tension with the ego.

I will break these down in the order that I first experienced them …

Soul Consciousness
This kind of consciousness is often referred to as a spiritual awakening, enlightenment, and/or revelation. For me, this form of consciousness introduced me to my own soul. It liberated me from an illusory reality that my ego had constructed. It called me out of old systems and formed a relationship with the spiritual realm. I saw my wholeness and…