Introduction Essay - My perspective

[Fourcrows]

Hello all,

Why do want to become a full member?

This looks to be a place populated by a lot of knowledgeable, experienced people, willing to assist others in their journey. I am not new to psychedelics. Growing up in the '60's, I really did tune in, drop out and turn on. LSD was occasionally a part of this for me. I used it recreationally, as did those around me. Now that I'm much older, and hopefully, wiser, I'm trying to find a deeper, therapeutic and more elevated application for hallucinogens. Becoming fully immersed in this site, I hope, will facilitate my journey. Aside from wanting to deepen my awareness of the beauty of life and how we are all connected, I am also hoping that in this process of learning and discovery, I will find ways to lessen the effects of Parkinson's Disease that I live with. I truly believe that DMT has the potential to help alleviate some physical, cognitive and emotional issues the arise from this disease. I want to connect with like minded people. I have a whole list of associated disorders related to Parkinson's and I think it's a worthy venture to explore the potential benefits. Also, being on the ASD Spectrum, perhaps, gives me a different perspective to share. People with ASD, process information differently. We are hardwired differently. For most of my life, I lived on the fringe of "normal" society, feeling that I was weird, odd or insufficient, but still trying desperately to fit in, to hide in plain sight, to understand. I know now that it wasn't the case at all. I have fully embraced my differences and the gifts associated with this. The philosophy of this site seems to be built on sharing, trust and acceptance. That is something I could also embrace.

Peace,

fourcrows

 

[MAGMA17]

Of course it can only do you good to be part of this beautiful forum, as in the forum it will do good to have you. In my case, I don't have a lot of experience, in fact, I would say it's very, very small, but I'll try to help in other ways!
I think your experience is generally valuable to anyone, even putting aside psychedelics. You are probably twice or nearly 3 times my age, and you certainly have a lot to teach others, considering also what you have said about your life.
I would be very curious to know what differences you notice between the approach to psychedelics from when you were young, and the approach that is now in society.

 

[Fourcrows]

Hi MAGMA17, Thanks for comments, much appreciated. With my limited exposure to the more contemporary approach to psychedelics, I am seeing a greater percentage of people utilizing them for more spiritual and therapeutic reasons. For me, that's very encouraging. I've read, from several sources, that micro dosing psilocybin is being used to treat PTSD and depression. I'm still wading in to these new inroads, in the hopes of finding concrete ways of treating illness and disease, or at the very least, giving some sort of relief. I think modern medicine, with all it's amazing achievements, is still in many ways, barbaric and self-limiting. It's nice to see some medical professionals becoming more open to alternative treatments. I see a very real movement in this direction.

In contrast, what I was exposed to in my youth was mostly about getting high, or creating a mind blowing experience. It rarely went beyond that. Psychedelics were mostly perceived as a method to expand the mind and conciousness. Some of the culture became so entrenched in psychedelic use, that they began to lose touch with the real world. There is a saying that goes "You are so heavenly minded, that you are no earthly good." Of course, this was not a representation of the whole culture at this time, but this part of it helped create a negative perception of psychedelics within our society. Unfortunately, much of this attitude still exists. But I didn't see any use as a medicinal.

Everyone has their own reason for using psychedelics. But for me, I have seen a definitive shift in how they are used, and I am very encouraged with what I am seeing.

Peace,

fourcrows

 

[MAGMA17]

Interesting. I also think that society is moving towards a different approach to the psychedelic experience than in the past. I think there is a lot more talk these days about the benefits that this kind of experience can bring to "everyday life". Which in fact in the end is the approach that the ancient civilizations who used these substances had, the visions of the shaman had a usefulness to society, giving a direction. So a very practical approach, I don't know how to put it in other words.

But I have to admit, the bands you had at the time were much better :lol: :lol:

 

[Fourcrows]

Yes, there is a lot to be said about ancient civilizations and current indigenous tribal uses. They developed methods, rituals, procedures to facilitate a deep spiritual experience. Their approach and methods still hold true today. Maybe the two can blend, or perhaps already have. I look forward to being able to discover where in this landscape I will camp.

I wholeheartedly agree, the music was and is, amazing. I live music of all types. But the music of that era, for me, is like no other.