What is a cult?

A cult is basically a social group that’s defined by its religious, spiritual or philosophical beliefs, or its common interest in a personality, object, or goal.

Seems pretty benign on the surface, right?

Here's where the wheels fall off...

Elitism

Essentially, this means that the group and its leader consider themselves to be part of a special group that has knowledge others don't possess. They aren’t mere mortals; they’re on a special mission to save humanity.

Cognitive Dissonance

Cult members see their leader's teachings as law and refuse to accept or invite knowledge or information from any other source.

In a healthy social setting, people should be encouraged to question everything, yes?

In a cult, however, anyone who questions the group’s leader or tenets or requests is considered a traitor to the group as a whole, or even a danger to its members.

If you're spiritually 'awakened' or 'enlightened' group exhibits these characteristics, it might be time to do some serious soul-searching about your involvement.

Just sayin'

IMO, the spiritual path is an inner path. I'm not here to save the world by converting anyone to my particular wisdom or beliefs. My job is to grow on my own spiritual path, to expand my consciousness and evolve.

Any amount of evangelism should be by example. Sharing is an important part of the spiritual experience, yes. Encouraging people to consider an alternative perspective is also a good thing.

But my experience has taught me that while we are all connected, and in this together, the real path to conscious awareness and to the goal of unity is an inner journey.