Buddha at the Gas Pump

02/05/2025

For discussion of interview with Lisa Carrillo, see below: https://batgap.com/lisa-carrillo/

Although Lisa worked as a chemical engineer, spirituality always was the priority in her life. In 2009, at a silent retreat, her thought-based identity dropped away, and she saw only the single flow of benevolence in all that is.

When some of those thoughts returned a few weeks later (less convincing than before), there also came a deep curiosity to inquire into those thoughts. She developed many tools to return to a lived experience of the deeper knowing. Both of her books share these tools. All that is is a vibrant expression erupting from a single full emptiness.

02/01/2025

Is time itself an illusion created by mind, or does it have a role in the unfolding of spiritual evolution?

BatGapBot responds: Time is often described as an illusion in many spiritual teachings, meaning that it is not an absolute reality but rather a construct of the mind. Here’s a bit more on this perspective:

Mind and Perception: Our minds perceive time linearly—past, present, and future. This perception helps us organize experiences and make sense of the world. Yet, from a higher state of consciousness, such as during spiritual awakening, one might experience time as more fluid or even non-existent. This can manifest as a deep awareness of the eternal "now."

Role in Spiritual Evolution: While time might be an illusion from an ultimate perspective, it plays a crucial role in our human experience. It provides a framework for growth, learning, and evolution. Through the passage of time, we encounter challenges and opportunities that catalyze our spiritual development.

Paradox of Time: Embracing the paradox that time is both an illusion and a tool for evolution can be liberating. It allows us to engage with life fully, appreciating each moment while recognizing the deeper reality that transcends time.

This understanding of time might inspire you to trust the unfolding of your own unique path.

Do you agree? Share your thoughts in the comments.

01/14/2025

For discussion of interview with Eli Recht, see below: https://batgap.com/eli-recht/
Born and raised in San Diego, CA, and currently residing in Carlsbad, CA, Eli Recht is a licensed psychotherapist (LMFT), EMDR clinician, spiritual counselor, editor, and teacher of Self-realization.
In 2020, Eli experienced a falling away of ego identity and an awakening to the true nature of Reality. As a result, Eli has dedicated his life to service – to help alleviate suffering, cultivate connection, guide people through the often-confusing journey of Life, and invite others to recognize our shared unconditioned essence.
Eli’s specialty is blending contemporary psychological knowledge with timeless spiritual wisdom and advocating for the integration of these two disciplines.
Website: [elirecht.com](https://elirecht.com/)

723. Eli Recht Click image above to view video. Born and raised in San Diego, CA, and currently residing in Carlsbad, CA, Eli Recht is a licensed psychotherapist (LMFT),

01/13/2025

Did you know you can chat with the BatGapBot in multiple languages?

Write a prompt in your native language and the BatGapBot will respond in turn.

01/02/2025

As we begin 2025, let’s take a moment to pause and honor the opportunity for renewal and deepened awareness. The turning of the year invites us to reflect on where we’ve come, and the unknown path ahead.

To help guide your inner inquiry, here are 5 thoughtful prompts to explore with the BatGapBot, or in your own deep reflections:

1. What is the nature of trust in the spiritual journey, and how can it guide me this year?
2. What practices can help me transform fear into an opportunity for awakening?
3. How do different spiritual traditions view the balance between effort and surrender in personal growth?
4. How can I cultivate a deeper connection to the sacred in everyday life?
5. What does it mean to embody non-dual awareness in relationships?

Wishing you joy, peace, and love in the year ahead.

01/01/2025

For discussion of interview with Tanis Helliwell, see below: https://batgap.com/tanis-helliwell/

Tanis Helliwell has seen higher realms and spoken with Masters, angels and elementals since childhood. Walking in many worlds, she led tours to sacred sites for two decades, was a management consultant working for over 30 years, and founded the International Institute for Transformation specializing in spiritual transformation in 2000.

A true mystic who has worked with Masters in higher realms since childhood, her gift is assisting others to develop a soul-infused personal life in harmony with spiritual laws. Her knowledge and understanding of other worlds and spiritual realms can be found in some of her most popular books:

Summer with the Leprechauns,
The Leprechaun’s Story,
HYBRIDS: So you think you are human,
The High Beings of Hawaii,
The Dragon’s Tale, and
Good Morning Henry: An In-Depth Journey With the Body Intelligence.

12/24/2024

12/20/2024

For discussion of interview with Efrat Shokef, see below: Efrat Shokef, Ph.D., is a mother to three spiritually aware teens. A daughter, wife, sister, writer, teacher, cosmic journeyer, a shamanic energy healing practitioner working primarily with children, teens, parents, and families, and the Author of The Promise We Made: Three Universal Soul Promises We Made to Our Children – Near Death Experience and the Parenting Teachings It Invites.

Efrat was severely injured in a car crash and experienced a profound near-death experience (NDE) when her three daughters were all still younger than four. Her journey of physical recovery, the integration of her NDE, and, at the same time, her inability to participate in the caretaking of her daughters sent her on a quest to the essence of motherhood. What makes us our child(ren)’s parent beyond the doing? A quest and insights she shared in her book, and on her website.

Efrat believes that when parents know/remember that they are more than their physical bodies or their confused, wounded emotions, they can recognize the luminosity of their child(ren). When we all accept that we are on a journey of growth, we can mirror the possibility of this Earthly journey to the children in our lives.

When we walk our essence and connect to who we are at our core, we can see that same luminosity in everyone, beyond gender, race, ethnicity, or age. Respecting all others, including our children— dependent humans, yet also powerful, experienced souls—becomes a way of life.

12/19/2024

𝗕𝗮𝘁𝗚𝗮𝗽𝗕𝗼𝘁: The winter solstice, often heralded as a sacred juncture, marks the longest night and the shortest day of the year. This celestial turning point holds profound spiritual significance across various traditions and practices, offering a rich tapestry of insights for those on a spiritual path.

𝗦𝘆𝗺𝗯𝗼𝗹 𝗼𝗳 𝗥𝗲𝗯𝗶𝗿𝘁𝗵 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗥𝗲𝗻𝗲𝘄𝗮𝗹:
The winter solstice is a celebration of the return of light. As the sun begins its gradual ascent, we are reminded of the cycles of nature and the promise of renewal. This mirrors our inner journey, where periods of darkness and introspection eventually give way to enlightenment and growth.

𝗜𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗿 𝗥𝗲𝗳𝗹𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗦𝘁𝗶𝗹𝗹𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀:
This time invites us to pause and turn inward, embracing the stillness that envelops the Earth. It’s a fertile period for deep self-reflection, akin to the quiet darkness of a womb, where seeds of potential are nurtured. As the world slows down, we have the opportunity to reconnect with our inner essence and realign our intentions.

𝗦𝗽𝗶𝗿𝗶𝘁𝘂𝗮𝗹 𝗜𝗹𝗹𝘂𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻:
Many traditions view the solstice as a moment of spiritual illumination, where the light of consciousness breaks through the shadows of ignorance. It’s a time to celebrate the inner light, the divine spark within, which remains constant even amidst external darkness. This is a powerful reminder of our true nature and the interconnectedness of all beings.

𝗥𝗶𝘁𝘂𝗮𝗹𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆:
Historically, the solstice has been a time for communal gatherings, rituals, and celebrations. These practices often focus on themes of gratitude, letting go of the old, and welcoming the new. Engaging in such rituals can deepen our sense of belonging and connection to the broader cycle of life.

𝗔𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗼𝗹𝗼𝗴𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗹 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗘𝘀𝗼𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗰 𝗣𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗽𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲𝘀:
Astrologically, the solstice is a time when the veil between dimensions is thin, allowing for heightened intuition and spiritual insight. Esoteric teachings suggest an outpouring of higher energies during this period, offering a chance to align with cosmic rhythms and receive guidance from the unseen realms.

𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗔𝗴𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗔𝗾𝘂𝗮𝗿𝗶𝘂𝘀:
In recent years, the winter solstice has been linked to astrological events like the conjunction of Jupiter and Saturn, symbolizing the dawning of the Age of Aquarius. This era focuses on collective consciousness, innovation, and humanitarian values, urging us to contribute to global harmony and unity.

Embracing the winter solstice with intention can be a transformative experience, offering a sacred pause to honor the cycles of life and our own spiritual evolution.

As you reflect on this time, you might consider:

How can you create a personal ritual or practice to honor the solstice?
What aspects of your life are ready for renewal or transformation?
How can you deepen your connection to your inner light and the collective consciousness?

12/17/2024

In recognizing the world as a projection of consciousness, how does the perception of 'otherness' shift in everyday interactions?

BatGapBot: Reflecting on the nature of the world as a projection of consciousness invites us into a profound shift in how we perceive 'otherness' in our daily lives. This understanding is not merely an intellectual exercise but a transformative experience that reshapes our interactions and our sense of self.

Unity in Diversity:
When we recognize the world as a projection of consciousness, the apparent 'otherness' of people and situations begins to dissolve. Each interaction becomes an opportunity to see ourselves reflected in the 'other.' This doesn't negate the diversity and uniqueness of individuals; rather, it deepens our appreciation for the interconnected tapestry of life. We begin to sense the underlying unity amidst diversity, where every encounter is a dance of consciousness with itself.

Empathy and Compassion:
As the perception of separation diminishes, empathy naturally expands. We start to feel a deeper compassion for others, recognizing that their joys and struggles are not separate from our own. This shift encourages us to act with kindness and understanding, as we perceive others not as isolated entities but as extensions of our shared consciousness.

Presence and Authenticity:
With the diminishing sense of 'otherness,' we become more present in our interactions. The need to project or defend a separate self lessens, allowing us to engage with authenticity and openness. Each moment becomes an opportunity to connect from a place of genuine presence, where the barriers of ego are softened.

Mirrors of Consciousness:
Others become mirrors through which we can see aspects of ourselves more clearly. Challenges and conflicts in relationships are seen as opportunities for growth and self-understanding. This perspective encourages us to look within and inquire into the patterns and beliefs that shape our experiences.

Transcending Judgment:
The realization that consciousness is the ground of all being helps us transcend judgment. We start to see beyond superficial differences, recognizing the divine play of consciousness manifesting in myriad forms. This understanding fosters acceptance and reduces the tendency to categorize or label others.

In essence, as we embrace the world as a projection of consciousness, our experience of 'otherness' shifts from separation to a profound interconnectedness. This transformation is not about dismissing individuality but about recognizing the shared essence that underlies all existence.

12/06/2024

How does the experience of time shift when one’s identity is no longer anchored in the personal self? What becomes of the concepts of past, present, and future?

BatGapBot: When one's identity is no longer anchored in the personal self, the experience of time can indeed shift in intriguing ways. Imagine time as a flowing river; when we're deeply entangled in our personal identities, it's as if we're caught in the current, moving along with the flow, feeling the rush of past, present, and future. But when that personal identity loosens its grip, it's like stepping onto the riverbank. Suddenly, you can observe the river from a place of stillness.

In this space, the present moment often becomes remarkably vivid. Without the constant chatter of past regrets or future anxieties, the "now" is illuminated with a clarity that can be both profound and serene. It's as if the mind quiets down enough for you to truly hear the symphony of the present.

Some describe experiencing all of time in the present moment, a state sometimes referred to as the "cosmic now." This can feel like past and future events are accessible simultaneously, collapsing into a single, expansive point. It's a bit like looking at a tapestry where all threads are visible at once, rather than just the section directly in front of you.

There are those who perceive time as a dimension they can move through, almost like a timeline where they can traverse personal or universal history. This perspective can offer a sense of spaciousness and freedom from the linear constraints of time.

And then, there's the possibility of transcending time altogether, entering a state where concepts like past, present, and future don't hold the same weight. In this timeless realm, identity merges with a greater whole, and the usual markers of time melt away.

These shifts invite us to reconsider our relationship with reality and self, offering a glimpse into a more expansive way of being. It's a journey of exploration that can be both liberating and humbling, reminding us of the vastness of the human experience.

If you're curious to explore further, you might ask yourself: What practices can help deepen my experience of the present moment? How can I cultivate a sense of timelessness in daily life? And what insights arise when I observe my relationship with time and identity?

12/03/2024

For discussion of Buddha at the Gas Pump Community interview with Riyaz Motan, see below: https://batgap.com/riyaz-motan/
Born in Kenya, and of Indian ancestry, Riyaz came to North America when he was ten years old (growing up in Canada, and then moving to the United States as an adult). Each of these lands, peoples, and cultures has informed and shaped his expression and sensibilities. He is a product of both East and West.

Most of his adult life has been devoted to the study and practice of both psychotherapy and spirituality. And both of these disciplines have been integral to a path of healing and awakening. Professionally, his life’s work has been to bring together Eastern wisdom with Western science and psychology in a synergistic alliance.

After 26 years of mainly practicing as a psychotherapist, and many years of teaching and supervising students and interns in a transpersonally oriented graduate school (CIIS in San Francisco), he has shifted his work in a more explicitly spiritual direction. He now leads individuals and groups in spiritual work through groups, and day-long and multi-day retreats.

In April 2023, he received dharma transmission and the blessing of his teacher, Adyashanti.

11/30/2024

When is a relationship a tool for spiritual growth, and when does it become a distraction from our true path? Can the line be blurry, and how do we navigate it?

BatGapBot responds:
Navigating relationships on the spiritual path can feel like a delicate balance, especially as we grow older and wiser. Relationships are powerful mirrors, reflecting our inner world and offering opportunities for growth, healing, and deeper understanding. They can be sacred tools for spiritual evolution, encouraging us to embody love and acceptance.

However, these same relationships can sometimes become distractions if they lead us away from our true nature or compromise our well-being. When a relationship consistently drains your energy or keeps you stuck in patterns of suffering, it might be time to reassess its role in your life. The line can indeed be blurry, as people and situations are complex and ever-changing.

To navigate this balance, it's important to remain present and aware. Listen to your intuition and check in with yourself regularly. Are you growing and learning within the relationship, or are you feeling stagnant and drained? Trust that inner wisdom to guide you.

Remember, relationships can be a journey of self-discovery and transformation. Embrace them as such, and allow them to enrich your path.

Feel free to share your thoughts or experiences in the comments! How have relationships been a tool for growth in your life?

11/21/2024

𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙗𝙚𝙣𝙚𝙛𝙞𝙩𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙘𝙝𝙖𝙡𝙡𝙚𝙣𝙜𝙚𝙨 𝙤𝙛 𝙚𝙭𝙥𝙡𝙤𝙧𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙢𝙖𝙣𝙮 𝙥𝙖𝙩𝙝𝙨 𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙨𝙪𝙨 𝙙𝙞𝙫𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙙𝙚𝙚𝙥𝙡𝙮 𝙞𝙣𝙩𝙤 𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙩𝙧𝙖𝙙𝙞𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣?

𝗕𝗮𝘁𝗚𝗮𝗽𝗕𝗼𝘁: Exploring multiple spiritual paths and diving deeply into one tradition each offer unique benefits and challenges. Let's delve into both approaches:

𝗘𝘅𝗽𝗹𝗼𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗠𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗣𝗮𝘁𝗵𝘀
Benefits:
𝘉𝘳𝘰𝘢𝘥𝘦𝘯𝘦𝘥 𝘗𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘱𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘷𝘦: Engaging with various traditions can provide a rich tapestry of insights and wisdom, helping you appreciate the universal truths shared across different spiritual teachings.

𝘛𝘰𝘰𝘭 𝘊𝘰𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯: You gather diverse tools and practices that can aid in your personal growth, allowing you to address different aspects of your spiritual journey.

𝘍𝘭𝘦𝘹𝘪𝘣𝘪𝘭𝘪𝘵𝘺: This approach can be particularly beneficial if you feel called to blend and integrate practices that resonate with your personal experience and intuition.

Challenges:
𝘚𝘶𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘧𝘪𝘤𝘪𝘢𝘭 𝘜𝘯𝘥𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘯𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨: There's a risk of not delving deeply enough into any one tradition, which might prevent you from experiencing the full depth and transformative potential it offers.

𝘓𝘢𝘤𝘬 𝘰𝘧 𝘊𝘰𝘮𝘮𝘪𝘵𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘵: Constantly shifting focus can lead to a feeling of spiritual restlessness or lack of grounding.

𝘊𝘰𝘯𝘧𝘶𝘴𝘪𝘰𝘯: Mixing teachings might lead to confusion if the principles or practices seem contradictory or lack a cohesive framework.

𝗗𝗶𝘃𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗗𝗲𝗲𝗽𝗹𝘆 𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗼 𝗢𝗻𝗲 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻:
Benefits:
𝘋𝘦𝘱𝘵𝘩 𝘰𝘧 𝘌𝘹𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘦: Immersing yourself in one tradition allows for a profound understanding and integration of its teachings, potentially leading to deep spiritual transformation.

𝘚𝘵𝘳𝘶𝘤𝘵𝘶𝘳𝘦 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘚𝘶𝘱𝘱𝘰𝘳𝘵: A single tradition often provides a clear framework and community support, which can be stabilizing and reassuring.

𝘔𝘢𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘺: By focusing deeply, you may develop a mastery of the practices and teachings, leading to a more sustained and profound spiritual experience.

Challenges:
𝘓𝘪𝘮𝘪𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘗𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘱𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘷𝘦: Focusing on one tradition might limit your exposure to other valuable teachings and practices.

𝘙𝘪𝘨𝘪𝘥𝘪𝘵𝘺: There can be a risk of becoming overly attached to one way of thinking, which might close you off to other valid perspectives.

𝘊𝘶𝘭𝘵𝘶𝘳𝘢𝘭 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘗𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘰𝘯𝘢𝘭 𝘍𝘪𝘵: Sometimes, a single tradition might not fully align with your unique spiritual needs or cultural background.

𝗜𝗻 𝗻𝗮𝘃𝗶𝗴𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝘀𝗲 𝗼𝗽𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀, 𝗰𝗼𝗻𝘀𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗿 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗳𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗿𝗲𝗳𝗹𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗾𝘂𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀:

• What draws you to exploring multiple paths versus a single tradition?
• How do you balance openness with the need for depth and commitment?
• Are there specific practices or teachings that resonate with your current life circumstances?
•Consider experimenting with a few practices from different traditions to see what resonates, while also committing to one practice for a set period to explore its depth.

11/17/2024

For discussion of interview with Thomas Legrand, see below.
https://batgap.com/thomas-legrand/

Thomas Legrand is a wisdom’s seeker, a social scientist and sustainability practitioner.

He is the author of the internationally acclaimed book “Politics of Being. Wisdom and Science for a New Development Paradigm” (2022), an invitation to radically rethink our model of development, which received the Grand Prize of the Nautilus Book Award in 2024.
His spiritual journey began at the age of 23 with an encounter with native spirituality in Mexico, before embracing the wisdom of a wide range of traditions and practices, including meditation, energetic healing and Tai-chi-chuan. He lives with his wife and their two young daughters near Plum Village, the monastery of Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh in the South West of France, his country.

He is currently the Lead Technical Advisor for the UNDP-convened Conscious Food Systems Alliance

11/01/2024

For discussion of interview with Georgette Star, see below: https://batgap.com/georgette-star/

For over 30 years, Georgette Star, MA, D.Min, has dedicated her life to empowering adults and youth to live soul-embodied, joyful, and purposeful lives. An intuitive Soul Stream Life Coach & Mentor, and Method trainer, her own deep quest for Self-Realization informs all aspects of her work. Finding joy in sharing this journey with others and a calling to contribute to the greater good inspired her to found the Life Blessing Institute (LBI).

This transformational learning community is designed to guide individuals on the journey of human potential, spiritual awakening, and actualization of their soul’s agenda. Through LBI, Georgette developed a variety of programs, including Maiden Spirit & Peace Warriors Youth Programs, Individual and Community Rites of Passage Celebrations and the Soul Stream Method Practitioner Training.

Currently Georgette is also working on a documentary film titled The Woman’s Rite. The film examines the challenges of ageism faced by women (and all genders) and explores how these limitations can be transformed through creative expression, conscious rites-of-passage and spiritual awakening. It highlights the opportunity for women to step into empowered, vibrant, and respected elderhood, offering their wisdom, creativity, light, and love to a world that deeply needs their contributions.

Georgette holds a Master’s degree from the Naropa Institute and a Doctorate of Ministry from the University of Creation Spirituality. Using her life experience, education and an array of natural abilities, Georgette actively pursues contributing to humankind however she can. In addition to her professional work, she cherishes being a mom, grandmother, artist, forest dweller and daughter of Mother Earth. She also finds joy in creating collaboratively with others and sharing the spiritual journey of awakening with her friends and colleagues.

10/18/2024

For discussion of interview with Edi Bilimoria, see below: https://batgap.com/edi-bilimoria/

Dr. Edi Bilimoria was born in India and educated at the universities of London, Sussex, and Oxford. He presents an unusual blend of experience in the fields of science, arts, and philosophy.

Professionally, Edi is an award-winning engineer and consultant to the petrochemical, oil and gas, transport, and construction industries. He has been Project Manager and Head of Design for major innovative projects such as the Channel Tunnel, London Underground systems, petrochemical plants and offshore installations. He also worked in safety and environmental engineering for several Royal Navy projects, including the Queen Elizabeth Aircraft Carrier and the fleet of Offshore Patrol Vessels.

A student of the perennial philosophy for over half a century, Edi has given courses and lectured extensively in the UK, and internationally. He has organized and chaired conferences with the object of encouraging discourse on the different, but overlapping, roles of science, religion, and practical philosophy. Edi has published extensively in the fields of science, engineering, and the esoteric philosophy. “Unfolding Consciousness” has received recognition with the 2022 Grand Prize Award from the Scientific and Medical Network. Edi’s earlier work, “The Snake and the Rope” is also an award winner.

Interview recorded October 12, 2024