Michael Meade Mosaic Voices

09/02/2026

This episode of Living Myth connects ancient ideas of rites of passage with the need for both transformation and healing on many levels of life. An old idea from the process of initiation states that before the journey begins, you own the journey. But, once the journey has begun, the journey owns you. Both collectively and individually we are in the midst of a journey that we don't own.

Ancient wisdom and initiation practices involved the secret of letting go of what holds us back, even if it protected us early in life. Like a long-lived snake, we grow by letting go of who we thought we were and by shedding skins imposed upon us as well as those we choose to hide within. We are being called to understand a radical mode of transformation in which letting go of old forms and old attitudes becomes necessary both for psychological growth and for reimagining cultural life.

Life, death and renewal is the mystery that underlies all of creation and shapes the ideas and images of rites of passage. In such rites, the initiates become frightened and frustrated, disoriented and confused. However, this liminal condition of being betwixt and between was considered to be a holy confusion that precedes awakening and genuine transformation.

The current state of widespread uncertainty, doubt and agitation can be seen as a modern version of holy confusion. Chaotic conditions can be seen as a prerequisite for finding the greater inspirations and deeper levels of healing needed to renew life and shape a better world for everyone.

This episode connects ancient ideas of rites of passage with the need for both transformation and healing on many levels of life. An old idea from the process of initiation states that before the journey begins, you own the journey. But, once the journey has begun, the journey owns you. Both collect

09/02/2026

09/01/2026

"The caterpillar’s transformation into a butterfly is an eloquent metaphor for the awakening and potential transformation of the human soul. Just as the imaginal cells are the essential part of a caterpillar that holds all the information, energy, and instincts of the butterfly-to-be, imagination is the deepest power of the human soul and the source of growth and genuine transformation. In the human realm, transformation involves a reclaiming of the deeper self and soul within us.

All the elements of the butterfly exist inside the caterpillar, however, the imaginal cells, the essential elements of change, are so totally different that the caterpillar’s immune system thinks they are enemies. Biologists have discovered that the butterfly arises from its own unique genome, which is unwittingly carried by the caterpillar. Inside the cocoon, there is an epic, unseen battle of resistance, but over time, the collective strength and innate resilience of the imaginal cells lead to transformation. In a sense, it is the caterpillar’s fate to die in order to give birth to the butterfly. Yet it is also the job of the caterpillar to resist the presence of the butterfly-to-be."

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08/29/2026

NEW BOOK BY MICHAEL MEADE
Michael Meade's new book "The Heart of Transformation" explores how transformation is the way of the world, the mystery at the heart of each soul, and may be the only way out of the troubled times in which we live.

PURCHASE: https://store.mosaicvoices.org/products/the-heart-of-transformation

PRE-ORDER SPECIAL:
● Signed book with discounted shipping - $23.95
● Two signed books with free shipping - $39.90

"The Heart of Transformation" begins with the core idea that we keep finding ourselves in uncharted waters regarding the future of the planet and in unmapped territories in terms of human culture. Despite all the divisions, conflicts and betrayals, something essential in the story of the world is trying to be rediscovered again.

Two stories are always happening at the same time. The drama of the world and the unique story of each soul trying to awaken. We may be but a tiny speck in an accidental universe, yet on another level, each soul is meaningful, valuable and a potential agent of creation.

Re-creation and renewal of the world can be the most important framework for understanding and re-imagining the role of humanity in these troubled times. Right when it seems that the end is near, new designs and new possibilities can appear. The current battle for the soul of humanity also becomes a struggle for the soul of the world, and we each have a vital role to play.

08/26/2026

In this episode of Living Myth, Michael Meade explores how when the world seems to make no sense, myth can make the most sense. Stories of renewal of the Earth can help us see the world with different eyes and create new contexts for facing the threats of climate change and stopping ecological degradation. Myth has a redeeming function as stories become vessels of imagination and inspiration that can open new ways to see the world.

Imagination has a way of lighting on truths that reason cannot find. Imagination can reveal inner dimensions and hidden resources in our individual and collective lives and in the world. Mythic narratives can inspire greater imagination and creativity in all fields of endeavor while helping to heal the gaps between nature and culture.

Michael Meade explores how when the world seems to make no sense, myth can make the most sense. Myth has a redeeming function as stories become vessels of imagination and inspiration that can open new ways to see the world.