Have you ever felt a deep need to understand if there’s more to life than what we see day to day? Couple of years ago, I felt that urge. That curiosity led me to explore a range of mystical traditions: Yoga, Hinduism, Islam (Sufism), Buddhism, Christian Mysticism, Jewish Mysticism, Gnosticism, and Hermeticism.

Though each has its own symbols and stories, they share a common thread: there is one infinite reality, one universal presence, that recognizes itself through each of us. And this recognition is seen in most traditions as the ultimate meaning of life.

Below is a simple table comparing how different traditions talk about this shared truth:

The Pyramid of The Light

In my own search for the Truth, I developed a model I call The Pyramid of The Light. It may be a helpful picture of how consciousness can evolve from basic survival to the full recognition of unity. It was during my research of human behavior about eight years ago, that I started seeing patterns of human behavior and reason, which helped me move up the pyramid and get a glimpse.

While using a method of inquiry of the ancient masters of non-duality “Who am I?”, I had a moment of clarity when, after I surrendered my attempt of finding that “I”, I felt a ray of light pass through my mind. The light felt radiant, loving, and aware, almost as if it turned toward me and asked, “Who am I?” I couldn’t help but laugh and cry at the same time. It was as if I had stumbled upon a hidden truth—one that reminded me that we are all reflections of something greater, reflections of the Absolute.

It is through those moments we get to know who we truly are. This works both ways, however, as we get to know who we are, the Absolute learns from us.

Basic Survival (Darkness):

Here, we focus on physical needs—food, shelter, and safety—much like in Maslow’s hierarchy of needs.

Emotions, Security, Power:

Once we have the basics, we often seek comfort, control, or status to feel secure, again aligning with Maslow’s framework.

Abstract Thinking & Reasoning:

We begin asking, “Why am I here?” and look for logical or philosophical answers. This marks the birth of philosophy.

Empathy & Love:

True compassion takes root as we realize we are not alone in our struggles or joys. Through this inquiry, we begin to understand the deeper reason behind everything.

The Veil – Ego Death:

Facing the fear of losing the “me” can be unsettling, but crossing this threshold offers a profound transformation. It allows us to perceive the deeper fabric of consciousness.

Seeing Patterns & Energies:

We begin to notice the subtle currents that connect everything—whether they manifest as shapes, frequencies, or sudden insights.

Worlds & Guides:

The more curious one becomes, the deeper one ventures into consciousness. Helpers, teachers, or higher aspects of the mind step in to guide us. These may be both people and non-corporeal guides. Sometimes they teach us a lesson; other times, they impart a skill. I remember one of them teaching me how to pay attention and observe the world more deeply, which greatly benefited my work as a researcher.

Communication with the Self:

Though it may seem impossible, it is entirely feasible to communicate with one’s higher self. Does that mean talking to yourself? In a way, yes. The key difference is that, through this relationship, the Absolute comes to know itself.

Surrender – Death & Rebirth:

And then, in that conversation, it becomes clear—there is nowhere else to go, nothing left to ask, and only one thing remains inevitable. One final question lingers: surrender to the will of the Absolute.

I AM the Light (Truth & Love):

This moment can be described as ecstasy—a recognition that we, along with everything else, are expressions of the same luminous, loving source. We no longer ask ourselves if we believe, because, as Carl Jung once said, “We know.” We have experienced it.

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What Is This All For?

You might wonder how any of this applies to everyday life. In my experience, it couldn’t matter more. When we recognize that we all emerge from the same source, compassion becomes a natural expression.

Imagine if the leaders of the world—many of whom have lost themselves in power play, greed, and fear—caught even a glimpse of this reality. Would they still seek to conquer, to steal, or to destroy? If they truly understood, how could they justify harming their own siblings? Would they see themselves “playing cards” with other people’s lives? Or would they see themselves as protectors, nurturers, and helpers? Many leaders unfortunately operate on the lower levels of consciousness, believing that power, money, and status are the meaning of life.

From the vantage point of the Pyramid of Light, the illusion of separation dissolves. We no longer feel alienated from one another but instead experience a deep, unshakable sense of brotherhood.

But realization alone is not enough. Understanding must be followed by action. Each of us must choose how to apply this wisdom in service to others. The path forward depends on our willingness—and ability—to contribute to the greater good.

How do we hold onto this truth? How do we keep it alive in our daily lives?

The answer is simple: remember the light. It is everywhere, woven into the fabric of existence. If ever you need proof, just open your eyes—and see.

If you still seek a proof, let it be the Light!