Comparison of the two paths

[kycahi]

I am someone who was firmly on a STS path some years ago. Not only was I involved for many years in a STS magical organization, but I firmly believed at the time that I was on the "correct" path.

I would say that there is little difference in the training of an STS and an STO magician, at least in my experience. The skills learned are the same, though the intention is quite different. For STSers, meditation is important in that control of the mind is necessary. The goal of meditation is not to make the mind chaotic (as this would greatly hamper one's ability to control their emotions, etc.), but rather calm and "centered." The self is viewed as divinity incarnate, so any and all methods of aggrandizing the self are seen as a good thing. From the STS point of view, being "selfish" by strengthening and honoring one's own inner divinity is the path to godhood.

Thank you Alkhemist. This confirms what I had surmised from the bits Ra said about STS. I have a couple of questions after reading your post.

1. Were you ever tempted to switch back to STS? Do you miss anything?
   
2. When you discuss STO and Ra with STS friends, do they get your new point of view?
   

Thanks.

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It sheds light alright, and intrigues me further. How is meditation on the STO path different? Both paths must acknowledge the self as the Creator, no?

I really am asking. I am not good at meditation, and chakras are only mysterious concepts to me.

IMHO, 3DM, the first step at being good at meditation is to stop thinking that you are not good at it. That did it for me.

As for the chakras, while I know that they exists, I don't dwell on them and their mysteries. I figure they are there for my benefit, just as any physical organ, so I let them do their work and try to stay out of their way.

I am eager to read Alkh's answers to your questions.