According to Teilhard de Chardin (a Christian mystic and one of the most influential thinkers of the 20th century) as consciousness evolves it has three characteristics. One is differentiation or individuation. Each of us grows into a unique and precious being who has never existed before in the history of the universe. The dancer, Martha Graham spoke about this: “There is a vitality, a life force that is translated through you into action and because there is only one of you in all of time, this expression is unique.”

The second quality of the evolution of consciousness is interiority or depth. Each person develops an awareness of the depth of their being and internal experience. The inner world is often accessed through spiritual practice or developing an interest in the larger understanding of the Self. In the Pacific Northwest the first two characteristics of evolving consciousness are seen in the high percentage of people who chose their own spiritual path.

The third characteristic of evolving consciousness is communion and community. As we honor our uniqueness and depth, this opens us to the final frontier: relationship, the state of interbeing within the Only Being, where we support and are supported in developing our interiority and individuality.

Spiritual communities are often equated with conformity so it is no wonder that so many people, as they move toward individuation, choose to create their own unique spiritual paths. However, this uniqueness leaves us without the integration and support of community.

Hazrat Inayat Khan, an Indian teacher who brought Sufism to the West, envisioned a community where all faiths and paths have a common Source. The Service of Universal Peace is a symbolic representation of this unity among all spiritual peoples. On a table candles display the major religions, plus a Source candle and one for all the people who have held aloft the light of truth. The altar and candles extend into infinity, such that each person is a representative of their own unique expression of the One.

In the spirit of Inayat Khan, we envision the Self & Soul Center as that same altar, a place to honor and support each individual's unique path and to offer community. Having the support of companions and friends as we evolve is precious and valuable, what the Buddhists call sangha. The group energy field gives back a deep reflection of our souls and provides us with a place to recognize what we have to give.

May all beings be well; may all beings be happy, Peace.