Introduction to Consciousness and Reality:

Exploring the Fabric of Existence

Zen Benefiel
7 min readFeb 11, 2024

I’ve been an explorer of consciousness for nearly 50 years, thrust into an experience of cosmic consciousness as a teen and curious about the notion that we are it condensed into form, a bit unaware. Decades of trials and tribulations, necessary experience, only encouraged my radical curiosity and persistence in learning how it all works. I’m still learning and feel what I’ve learned at least deserves exploration and ponderings from others as we attempt to reconfigure a world into a ‘new normal.’

In the vast expanse of human inquiry, few questions are as profound and enduring as those concerning the nature of consciousness and the essence of reality. This exploration delves into the intricate dance between the seen and unseen, the known and the mysterious, weaving through the fabric of existence to understand how we, as conscious beings, experience and shape our universe.

The Quest for Understanding

At the heart of this quest lies the fundamental question: How do we experience reality? This inquiry is not merely philosophical but encompasses the realms of science, spirituality, and beyond, inviting us to consider the myriad ways in which reality manifests and intertwines with consciousness. I had a spiritual awakening as a teen that could…

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Zen Benefiel

Vulnerable and radically curious toward harmony among people and planet. Co-Executive Director of Live and Let Live Global Peace Movement and Foundation.