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2024 Franklin Merrell-Wolff Conference Report
October 19, 2024 / Leave a Comment / Trackback / Posted in News
Although not originally intended, we came to appreciate the coincidence of the dates for this year’s FMW Conference with the Summer Solstice and the Full Moon. Ron also especially resonates with this time of year, echoing the effect of a notable conference in years past….
What a difference from last year! No one saw a single moth in the Main House…and the bees that have taken up residence in the outside north wall only provided a soothing hummm, but went about their business as we went about ours.
Perfect weather! The weather gods waited until after all had left to bring in T-storms…which were predicted to continue every day for a week.
The group felt exceptionally close. Astrologically, half were air signs, which seems to have had the effect of inducing a high degree of joy, humor and flexibility. There was also an extraordinary degree of attentiveness and participation. Doroethy’s family was well represented, providing familiarity & support.
Her daughter Jennifer Young stepped into the role of keynote speaker with grace and confidence. Her approach involved the group in a multifaceted discussion of quotes on compassion chosen at random. Much of this involved revealing personal stories and insights. Although each had the option of passing on the question, or answering someone else’s question, everyone chose to engage with sensitivity and authenticity, enhancing compassion within the group.
Ron drew the question, “Is there ever a situation where compassion is not appropriate?” Upon reflection—a qualified No: It is still appropriate to feel compassion toward an attacker, though prudence requires that our primary focus be on self-defense. He also introduced the Tibetan notion of near/far enemies. The far enemy of compassion would be hatred; the near enemy is pity. Genuine compassion is based on empathy for a fellow sentient being; pity assumes an attitude of superiority based on a felt distance.
Doroethy Leonard revealed much of her personal biographical history in elaborating the significance and influence on her life that Franklin’s gift of Carl G. Jung’s Memories, Dreams, Reflections had for her. Franklin advised his students to read Jung and Sri Aurobindo as alternative sources of wisdom so as to avoid becoming one-sided. Doroethy not only read and studied them for decades, she participated in founding the Phoenix Friends of Jung, serving multiple terms as Program Chair and President.
Ron Leonard clarified the difference between Introceptualism and Panpsychism, insofar as both are oriented to consciousness. David Chalmers, a philosopher of mind, showed a logical progression from Materialism through Dualism & Panpsychism to end in Idealism. Franklin made a critique of the schools of his day: Naturalism (incl. Materialism), Neo-Realism, Pragmatism & Idealism, ordering them from least to most orientated to consciousness. He places his philosophy of Introceptualism beyond Idealism. Ron gave brief summaries & critiques.
Throughout history we find numerous versions of Panpsychism, but a simplified definition would be that every element in the universe (or the universe itself) has some degree of consciousness, mind, soul, or spirit. This contrasts with Franklin’s non-dualistic Realization of THAT as symbolized by the Great Space, or Consciousness without-an-object and without-a-subject. Franklin denies that there is anything that may be determined as strictly unconscious. Panpsychism views consciousness as an element or property of the universe. Thus, it differs crucially from Franklin’s view of Primordial Consciousness as ultimate, Transcending the subject-object structure. Whereas Materialism is obviously the far enemy of Introceptualism, we can now see Panpsychism as the near enemy.
In the mornings, sharing and discussing our favorite quotes from Franklin was invaluable as it revealed ideas and insights of interest related to aspects of his philosophy. At a conference, it is a mode that we found much more appropriate than intensive reading of the text, which is better designed for an ongoing study group.
Baiba Strads varied the Closing Ceremony by introducing a ritual from the Christian tradition, invoking the Divinity within the body. A first—all attendees participated. We also continued the Healing Circle, Dream & Tarot Circles, all of which allowed for confidential sharing of deeply personal material.
James & Jessica expanded their support by shopping for, and preparing, lunches & dinners, including James’s chili. Much appreciated! Also, troubleshooting a water problem for the Guest House, they located an 8-inch root that had clogged the line. Kudos!
Jennifer not only stepped up to be Keynote Speaker, but provided much needed practical assistance during the conference. Jessica also supported Jennifer in that role as speaker. By their actions during recent years, they have demonstrated their dedication and commitment. Consequently, Doroethy acknowledged and expressed her gratitude for Jennifer, James & Jessica (what Ron has affectionately called the J-Team) taking on increased responsibility.
2024 FRANKLIN MERRELL-WOLFF CONFERENCE
March 28, 2024 / Leave a Comment / Trackback / Posted in News
REALIZING COMPASSION
Dates: Thursday, June 20—Sunday, June 23, 2024
Location: Great Space Center, Lone Pine, CA
Jennifer Young, MC, LPC (Keynote Speaker)—Compassion
FMW writes so beautifully in his poem, “Sweet are Thou, unutterably sweet, melting within me all hardness; Stirring inclusion of the low as the high; evil as the good; the weak as the strong; the unclean as the pure; the violent as the considerate; none left out…” In a world so full of adversity and historical trauma, this ideal becomes increasingly difficult to attain. Should there be limits to compassion? The ego is so often vilified. Perhaps the goal is to begin to embrace all parts of ourselves with compassion, including our ego.
Ron Leonard, PhD—Panpsychism and Introceptualism
Because both Panpsychism and Introceptualism emphasize consciousness, it is easy to confuse them. It is therefore worthwhile to carefully distinguish between them to clarify Franklin’s philosophy. After defining Panpsychism and understanding why it has been so appealing throughout the ages, we shall contrast it to Franklin’s philosophy and why the latter is more firmly grounded.
Doroethy Leonard, MA, MC—Franklin Merrell-Wolff and Carl G. Jung
In Franklin’s library was a 1926 edition of Carl Jung’s Psychological Types. In 1963, Franklin sent me a copy of Jung’s Memories, Dreams, Reflections, and my life became profoundly enriched. I changed the ways I saw myself and others. I will share my experience at our summer conference. There will be questions.
Special Features—Thursday evening we shall gather in the Main House at 7:30 for the Opening Ceremony, and to become (re)acquainted and share.
Friday morning (7:30 sharp) will begin with a dream circle and Saturday morning (7:30 sharp) a tarot reading, having both personal and collective significance. Bring a dream—preferably recent—that you feel is spiritually significant to you, or to the group—especially one that C.G. Jung would call a Big Dream. Non-dreamers are also welcome. Both mornings, after a break for breakfast, we shall discuss selected quotations from Franklin’s writings. Please bring your copy of Experience and Philosophy, and be prepared to discuss with the group a quotation that you have found particularly personally meaningful.
On Saturday evening—a Special Program (TBA), followed by a Candlelight Ceremony.
The traditional Sunday morning meeting follows the format that Franklin and Sherifa used for many years. (Many dress more formally.) The theme will be Compassion. Following the Closing Ceremony (Baiba Strads) we share a noon potluck.
We remain committed to continuing the tradition that Franklin and Sherifa began 94 years ago, in 1930. As usual, we shall enjoy communal meals and stimulating “round table” discussions. Doroethy will arrange to provide breakfast, lunch & dinner Friday & Saturday during our program; Sunday lunch is potluck.
Cost: $195 (still holding the line, despite inflation), includes room and board. There is a $25 reduction for camping here in the Great Space, with outdoor propane shower available (Still working great!), or for staying elsewhere. Some scholarships are available upon request.
A $50 deposit confirms your space ASAP; please send checks to Doroethy Leonard at:
5825 N 12th Street, Phoenix, AZ 85014.
A map and directions are available upon registration; a detailed program will be provided upon arrival. We will help to coordinate transportation, if possible. For information, email Doroethy@cox.net or phone 602-663-2322; alternatively, email Ron (pleroma9@cox.net) or phone 480-395-5023.
2023 FMW Conference Report
July 07, 2023 / Leave a Comment / Trackback / Posted in News
2023 FMW Conference Report
Despite several significant diverse challenges, we were pleased to be able to host a unique conference whose easeful intimacy provided the space for deep meditations and sharing. There were three newcomers, one traveling the greatest distance—from Walla Walla, WA.
Aaron Haas, who now also resides in the state of Washington returned, this time as Keynote Speaker on Music and Meditation—his two greatest passions. His presentation revealed dimensions of music that enhanced our understanding and appreciation. As Beethoven remarked, “Music is the mediator between the spiritual and sensual life.” Aaron also played his classical guitar at our Round Table gatherings, finding the views across the valley inspiring.
Ron Leonard talked about the problematic nature of seeking the goal of Realizing Consciousness without-an-Object and without-a-Subject, given Franklin’s pronouncement, “I am already That which I seek, and therefore there is nothing to be sought.” Last year’s talk on Non-Duality emphasized the Awakening Model, whereas this year explored the Developmental Model. Since it is paradoxical to attempt to attain That which one already is, we concluded by circumventing the intellect with a guided meditation based on Ron’s Philosophy Logo—symbolizing the philosopher’s spiritual quest.
Doroethy Leonard gave an account of her life growing up under the profound influence of Franklin and Sherifa. She was just one year old when Franklin was Enlightened. While she was a young girl, she attended “camp” with Franklin’s students during the building of the Ashrama. As she was making the transition to adulthood, Franklin gave her Carl G. Jung’s Memories, Dreams and Reflections, with significant impact. In mid-life, she formalized her commitment to Franklin and the Work that he and Sherifa had established. It continues to this day.
Special Features—This year attendees chose the quotations by Franklin that they found most meaningful or inspirational. Sharing and discussing what we regard as personally valuable in these formulations of Franklin’s thought and philosophy was synergistic, enriching us all. The Closing Ceremony—Baiba Strads’ group Sufi Dance, on the theme of healing—moved some to tears. Also, we conducted a Healing Circle, for those in our lives who have a need, for ourselves, and for the Planet. The Dream and Tarot Circles introduced a further dimension, but privacy prevents revealing its content.
Special thanks to Doroethy’s son James Young and his life partner, Jessica Roberts, for their support managing the GSC facilities, organizing and preparing meals—including two versions of his famous chili—and for upgrading the solar batteries at the Main House. Also, most pertinently for this year, they detected and sealed the cracks in the Main House ceiling to quell the moth invasion.
2023 FRANKLIN MERRELL-WOLFF CONFERENCE
May 03, 2023 / Leave a Comment / Trackback / Posted in News
IN the WORLD, but NOT of IT
Dates: Thursday, June 15–Sunday, June 18
Location: Great Space Center, Lone Pine, CA
Aaron Haas, Doctor of Musical Arts (Keynote Speaker)—Music and Meditation
Aaron has combined his two great passions, meditation and music. He plans to explore this theme by elaborating his article, “Creativity Through Silence: Exploring the Use of Meditation in Musical Performance.”
Ron Leonard, PhD—Realizing Consciousness-without-an-Object
Franklin says that “Consciousness-without-an-object [and without-a-subject] is neutral regarding the presence of absence of objects” … [but] “to relative consciousness, Consciousness-without-an-object must appear to have objects.” Thus, its Realization does not consist of simply eliminating all objects from awareness. How then is It Realized while ordinary consciousness remains aware of objects?
Doroethy Leonard, MA; M.Ed.—Doroethy’s Lifelong Commitment to the Work of Franklin & Sherifa
Shortly after my birth, we lived with Franklin and Sherifa for a month or so. This was the beginning. My rather frequent time with them helped me to explore life and its deeper meaning. I learned to question, but to honor my feelings. It is a process, and 80 years isn’t long enough.
Special Features—Thursday evening we shall gather in the Main House at 7:30 to become (re)acquainted and share.
Friday morning will begin with a dream circle and Saturday morning a tarot reading, having both personal and collective significance. Bring a dream—preferably recent—that you feel is spiritually significant to you, or to the group—especially one that C.G. Jung would call a Big Dream. Non-dreamers are also welcome. Both mornings, after a break for breakfast, we shall discuss selected quotations from Franklin’s writings. Please bring your copy of Experience and Philosophy, and be prepared to discuss with the group a quotation that you have found particularly personally meaningful.
On Saturday evening—a Special Program (TBA), followed by a Candlelight Ceremony.
The traditional Sunday morning meeting follows the format that Franklin and Sherifa used for many years. (Many dress more formally.) The theme will be Music and Yoga. Following the Closing Ceremony (Baiba Strads) we shall share a noon potluck.
As usual, we shall enjoy communal meals and stimulating “round table” discussions. Doroethy will arrange to provide breakfast, lunch & dinner Friday & Saturday during our program; Sunday lunch is potluck.
Cost: $195 (still trying to hold the line, despite inflation), includes room and board. There is a $25 reduction for camping here in the Great Space, with outdoor propane shower available (Still working great!), or for staying elsewhere. Some scholarships are available upon request.
A $50 deposit confirms your space; please send checks to Doroethy Leonard at:
P.O. Box 758, Lone Pine, CA 93545.
Detailed program and/or map is available upon registration. We will help to coordinate transportation if possible. For information, email Doroethy@cox.net or phone 602-663-2322; alternatively, email Ron (pleroma9@cox.net) or phone 480-395-5023.
Addendum: Despite the need to adjust to the challenges of health and advancing years, we are hopeful to continue the annual tradition that Franklin & Sherifa began 93 years ago, in 1930. We look forward to renewing old friendships and making new ones.
2022 FMW Conference Report
June 20, 2022 / Leave a Comment / Trackback / Posted in News
After an unavoidable 2-year hiatus, we were pleased to resume our annual event (that Franklin & Sherifa began nearly a century ago), on the theme of Wisdom from the Aphorisms. There were 15 participants—5 for the 1st time—2 coming the furthest, from Massachusetts (including a heroic pilgrimage through Death Valley), and 2 from North Carolina (with a heroic pilgrimage through LAX).
Our Keynote Speaker, Thomas J. McFarlane, presented and elaborated on Franklin’s Aphorisms on Law found within his Aphorisms on Consciousness without-an-Object. Tom showed how our thought processes responsible for there being a universe are inherently law-governed, tending toward Equilibrium. This is responsible for the orderliness of scientific investigation, societal organization, the constitution of rules necessary for games, etc.
He was accompanied by his friend Aaron Haas on Classical Guitar (who also shared his gift at the Round Table, enhancing our time together).
Ron Leonard presented Non-Duality, the essential notion (symbolizing Reality) at the core of Franklin’s philosophy, grounded most centrally in his Fundamental Realization of the High Indifference, and expressed in his Aphorisms on Consciousness-without-an-Object. Non-Duality is ineffable because language, concepts and logic—the essential tools of our rational minds—are necessarily dualistic, so to Realize our inherent identity as That, we must transcend the limitations of the rational mind as well as our reification and attachment to objects. His talk culminated in an invitation to Realize Non-Duality, reciting “Trust in Mind,” by the 3rd Zen Patriarch.
Doroethy Leonard was a founding member of the Phoenix Friends of Carl G. Jung, holding most of the Board positions—including numerous terms as President. She drew upon her lifelong study of Jung—whom Franklin suggested that she (and his other students) read—to present and clarify Jung’s Central Notions of synchronicity, archetype, self, shadow, etc.
Special Features—Two sessions discussing the Aphorisms on CWO, in particular those relating to Consciousness-without-an-Object (and without-a-Subject) and the alternative symbol of SPACE, deepened our immersion in the Conference theme—as did Franklin’s recording relating Primordial Consciousness to the metaphysics of The Secret Doctrine.
In contrast, Sultana Parvanta’s Somatic Awareness and Practice for Self-Healing and Baiba Strads’ group Sufi Dance Closing Ceremony provided a delightful sensing & feeling balance to the intuition & thinking so prevalent in discussing Franklin’s Work. The Dream and Tarot Circles introduced a third dimension, but privacy prevents revealing its content.
Special thanks to Doroethy’s daughter Jennifer Young and daughter-in-law Jessica Roberts for their support organizing and preparing meals and to her son James Young for installing solar power—now in all 5 residences at the Great Space—and opening the dwellings to accommodate our attendees, as well as cooking two versions of his famous chili.