SA

A Memoir & Labor of Love

Revisado: 09-27-22

Matt Simpson wasn’t an expert on psychedelics when he began the journey he presents in this book. But he was open to new experiences and committed to self-growth; I believe that’s what makes his story so satisfying.

He presents his personal discovery of psychedelics and how they changed his life with curiosity, wonderment, and gratitude. (This is especially clear in the audio version of the book which he reads himself.)

Matt’s detailed accounts of what it was like for him during his journey with ayahuasca, and later with psilocybin, are among the best accounts I've read. He quickly realizes these journeys are “work” and the goal is “to figure shit out” – such as working through fear, anger, shame, depression, and the lingering effects of childhood trauma. I think he used the words “humbling” and “painful” to describe what he felt following his first trip. (This is very different than the beautiful, mystical experiences that are often talked about by psychedelic users – users who feel like their lives have completely changed right after their trip, even for days and weeks after, but months later realize they haven’t really changed much at all.)

He emphasizes that most of the work happens after the psychedelic trip, through reflection, self-examination, and integration – a process that could take months, even years, but is well worth it for those suffering from serious psychological issues, such as war veterans and survivors of sexual abuse. He explains the integration process, as he experienced it, in great detail. I like how he refers to a psychedelic journey as an “intervention.” That seems to be exactly what it is; the conscious self is gently forced to engage with unconscious feelings, patterns, and behaviors. This engagement, if one is committed to the process, can literally change the self, and lead to a more satisfying and productive life.

Matt’s journey was one of trial-and-error and tough-love, as well as compassion and vulnerability. He was willing to do the difficult work, and it seems to have made all the difference for him. And hopefully, by his example, it will for many of us as well.

Has calificado esta reseña.

Reportaste esta reseña