I just recently came back from the 1st biennial Integral Theory Conference held at John F. Kennedy University in Pleasant Hill, CA. What I found unusual about the conference, in my experience, was just how many people I knew there. I reconnected with people I haven’t seen in years and many that I’ve recently met but not seen in a while. Old friends and new alike, I can say it was a great conference. It was, I must say, definitely focused on the intellect and theory. No surprise there, but I heard a few folks complaining about how it wasn’t “integral” enough. I find this so amusing considering how difficult it truly is to remain “integral” all the time in all possible ways. Personally, I think it’s absurd to think one can be conscious (i.e. perfect) all of the time. It’s just way too stressful if you ask me. Nonetheless, I gotta say, I thought it was a great first event that was very professional and seemed to be well-organized.
I presented a poster version of the work I did on my doctoral qualifying paper. After working on the poster and attending a few of the first talks, I realized just how many gaps there were in my thinking. The fact of the matter is, that any piece of work is always just a snapshot of where an individual is at that given moment in their understanding and development. There is always more to know or to understand.
I lament that I did not get to present at this conference but I think I made enough new friends and contacts to make up for this fact.
Here’s a copy of my poster for your convenience (please note, this material has been copyrighted):
