"I was spiritually canceled—literally canceled in the middle of a profound meditation retreat."
In this episode of The Metaphysician: Meaning Beyond Medicine, we return after a month long hiatus with a deeply personal and thought-provoking episode. Joined by co-host Ren, The Metaphysician shares the shocking story of being abruptly ejected from a 20-day vipassana meditation retreat in the tradition of S.N. Goenka. What began as a journey of deep spiritual practice turned into an unexpected confrontation with the assistant teacher, accusations of dishonesty, and ultimately, a dramatic exit—waiting on the side of the road in the rain.
This episode dives into:
The strict orthodoxy of the S.N. Goenka vipassana tradition and its challenges.
The host's reflections on the tension between tradition and personal growth.
Insights into the broader history of vipassana meditation and its lineage.
The emotional and spiritual impact of being "spiritually canceled" after 23 years of practice and service.
Lessons learned and silver linings from this jarring experience.
Whether you're a seasoned meditator or curious about the complexities of spiritual practice, this episode offers raw honesty, humour, and valuable takeaways for anyone navigating the path of self-discovery.
Keywords: Vipassana, S.N. Goenka, meditation retreat, spiritual practice, mindfulness, personal growth, Buddhism, ethical dilemmas, spiritual community.
Music Credits:
Music by Ryan O’Flaherty
Follow Us:
Twitter: @themetamd
Website: themetamd.com
Tune in for Part 2 next week, where the story continues and deeper insights unfold. If you enjoyed this episode, please share, subscribe and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or your preferred platform. Until next time, take good care!
🚨Disclaimer: The views expressed in this episode are based on personal experiences and opinions. Listeners are encouraged to do their own research and form their own conclusions.
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