In order to identify problems and come up with creative solutions, we need to be able to communicate effectively and efficiently. However, sometimes the bases for miscommunication is rooted in the foundation of our basic building blocks, such as the definition of a word(s), concepts, historical fact, assumptions, etc. Beliefs may also get in the way of understanding a concept. The only way to minimize miscommunication is to first come to an agreement on the definition of words and concepts. One not need to believe in the definition of a word or concept in order to entertain these ideas in the mind. Those who are more literal in their thinking tend to have a difficult time using metaphors and allegories as a tool for higher understanding because they interpret language literally. If you interpret language literally (referred to as a literal person), you may want to explore ways to help you understand metaphors (get out of the literal thought box that confines your mind). We all suffer from mental blocks, some are more identifiable than others. 

YouTube Video on Literal-Metaphorical-Symbolic Thinking

The quote by Stephen R. Covey,  “We see the world, not as it is, but as we are–or, as we are conditioned to see it,” best describes how our perceptions of the world are filtered by our conditioning, experiences, beliefs, and training. 

It is the reason why your doctor and not your plumber can identify what may ail you, and why your mechanic not your accountant can identify what ails your car. These types of professional and trade skills were developed because of an investment of time (and acumen) to learn them. 

You too can develop skills of discernment. Many people have blamed the problems that occur at the VA as a cultural problem. If that is true, or even if it’s partly true, in order to unpack all that comes with it, including the contributing factors that give rise to a cultural problem, we must first understand what a cultural problem is. 

Going back to the very basic foundations on which you have built your higher learning on is a good method. Some may dismiss this method as being a waste of valuable time, but then remain mystified as to why they are unable to break through whatever it is they are working on. Going back to the basics helps people to develop discernment.

Before you read certain higher concepts, such as complicity, heartless, hypocrisy, corruption and how they apply to Veteran issues, you may want to explore your fundamental building blocks which helped you to arrive at wherever you are today in your understanding. 

To get the most out of the concepts on this website, you will need to be able to entertain and understand the concepts as defined on this website. You do not need to agree with these definitions but you do need to understand them in order to get the most out of what is being conveyed. Understanding and exploring abstract concepts can be analogous to the layers of an onion. Each layer of an onion metaphorically represents a level/plane of consciousness and reality. How deep (into a concept) do you want to go? Life is not linear and neither is our thinking. Since the tools we have to communicate (language) with each other are linear, this poses some challenges as we try to convey and bridge understanding. It might be helpful to view various concepts as threads being woven into a bigger tapestry. It is the threads weaved together that produces to the tapestry. None of us lives in a vacuum and neither does thoughts and actions.

First, start with learning or re-learning key concepts and tools that will help you get the most out of this website. Many of these concepts affect our daily lives in someway or another, whether we are aware of it or not. Start with learning about Trivium, Principles, and Freedom before moving on. These fundamental concepts are the keystone to developing discernment.