S7E3: Navigating Spirituality, Politics, and Mystical Experiences in Modern Times

In this deeply personal and reflective episode of "The Chris Abraham Show," Chris shares his thoughts and experiences on a variety of topics, weaving together stories of faith, political observations, and family anecdotes. Recorded on Easter in the United States, Chris opens by discussing his recovery from a recent illness and his decision to spend the day watching the Netflix series "Messiah," developing an admiration for actress Michelle Monaghan. He delves into his spiritual journey, highlighting his struggles with maintaining traditional religious practices while embracing the diverse spiritual perspectives of his friends from different faith backgrounds. Chris discusses his lack of interest in discussing current political events, choosing instead to focus on the broader theme of populism and its misunderstood role in American politics. He reflects on Donald Trump's appeal to populist sentiments and the mainstream media's reluctance to address the populist movement's impact. The episode takes a more personal turn as Chris shares mystical and spiritual experiences within his family, particularly those of his mother, who had profound encounters that shaped her religious beliefs. He also touches on his own spiritual practices, including his relationship with Marianism and his respect for various deities and spiritual figures, stemming from his upbringing and education in Hawaii. As Chris navigates through these topics, he offers insights into his views on Catholicism, the influence of polytheism, and the significance of personal spiritual experiences. He concludes the episode with reflections on attending church, his thoughts on the current political landscape, and a light-hearted note on his eBay sales. Chillax: A colloquial term combining "chill" and "relax," used to describe the act of calming down or relaxing. Messiah (Netflix series): A controversial and thought-provoking Netflix drama series exploring the modern world's reaction to a man who first appears in the Middle East claiming to be the eschatological return of 'Isa (Jesus). Populism: A political approach that strives to appeal to ordinary people who feel that their concerns are disregarded by established elite groups. Marianism: A form of devotion to Mary, the mother of Jesus, prevalent within the Roman Catholic Church. It emphasizes Mary's role in the salvation process and often involves prayers and practices that honor her. Mystical Experiences: Personal, spiritual experiences that provide a direct and intimate connection to the divine or the supernatural. Polytheism: The belief in or worship of more than one god. Roman Catholicism: The largest Christian church, led by the Pope, characterized by its liturgical traditions and teachings on the sacraments and doctrines such as the Virgin Mary's Assumption. Marianismo: A cultural belief in Latin America idealizing female virtue and purity in emulation of the Virgin Mary. Conspiracy Theories: Beliefs that certain events or situations are the result of a secret plot by powerful conspirators. Bermuda Triangle: A region in the western part of the North Atlantic Ocean where ships and aircraft are said to have mysteriously disappeared. Masonry: A fraternal organization that traces its origins to the local fraternities of stonemasons, which from the end of the fourteenth century regulated the qualifications of stonemasons and their interaction with authorities and clients. Hail Mary, full of grace. The Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou amongst women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death, Amen. Our Father,Who art in Heaven,Hallowed be thy name.Thy Kingdom come.They Will be done,On Earth as it is in Heaven. Give us this day our daily bread.And, forgive us our trespasses,as we forgive those who trespass against us.And, lead us not into temptation,But deliver us from evil.Amen. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/chrisabraham/support