Topic: True Will

Greg asks for actionable advice for listeners to align with their "true will" or specific deities. Steven suggests reading ancient hymns and following what "calls" to the individual rather than using modern affirmations. He references Socrates' "daemon," an inner voice that warned him what not to do, and the Bhagavad Gita's teaching of performing one's duty without attachment to the results.

The concept of "True Will" is defined as an individual's highest potential, comparable to the "will of God" in traditional prayer. Churton clarifies that Crowley's famous maxim, "Do what thou wilt," is not a license for chaos but a recipe for right living through the discovery of one's inherent purpose. This ethical framework focuses on self-discipline and the achievement of internal mastery rather than simple hedonism.

The concept of "Do what thou wilt" is clarified as the pursuit of one's "True Will" or essential life purpose rather than mere hedonism. Dr. Shoemaker explains that living in accordance with this internal nature allows the universe to function like a healthy ecosystem. The philosophy is compared to a practical version of Taoism, utilizing Western magical tools to align individual actions with the natural flow of the universe.

The discussion covers the psychological benefits of consistent ritual practice, comparing it to the physiological effects of meditation on the nervous system. Dr. Shoemaker introduces the concept of "positive spiritual contagion," where being around individuals living their True Will inspires others to find their own center. The host relates this to the insights gained from counter-culture figures like George Carlin and Bill Hicks.

Dr. Shoemaker clarifies that True Will is not necessarily a specific job, such as being a dentist, but a unique force of nature an individual exerts on the world. He suggests identifying this purpose by observing one's influence on a room of people or recognizing "peak moments" where all internal gears feel aligned. He shares a personal anecdote about realizing his own path through teaching dream analysis.

The host reflects on his personal journey from a hated retail management job to building a successful podcast, framing it as a practical example of manifesting one's True Will. He encourages listeners to stop making excuses for their lack of success and to recognize that they manifest their own reality, even in jobs they dislike. The episode concludes with well-wishes for the transition into 2015 and a final sign-off.

The conversation explores the Thelemic law "Do what thou wilt," clarifying that it is a mandate to discover one's "True Will" rather than a license for indulgence. Duquette explains that every individual has a unique function in the grand scheme, comparing a person's life path to a planet's orbit. This fulfillment of purpose is referred to as the "Great Work," where every micro-moment and action contributes to a larger cosmic necessity.