Hey jonspock,
Often I see new forum members are requested to offer a brief hello here: http://cassiopaea.org/forum/index.php/board,39.0.html forum rules and what have you.
Only speaking for myself:
JS wrote:
interested to hear from others who regularly read SOTT articles and forums what they think of this information.
I'd say it's a lot of data. It's a lot of logic, organic knowledge (interconnected, grown, growing).. and a difficult process. Some discussions are more thoroughly understood with a sort of background understanding of many of the topics discussed. A good portion of which can be obtained here: http://cassiopedia.org/glossary/Main_Page
You might also want to 'search' up info on the recommended reading list.
I hope you make yourself comfortable.. and perhaps gain some knowledge that you can utilize and then act upon (Do).
In trying to answer your question, I find in all honesty that I can offer a quote that, might best suit my experience from a sort of non-liniar perspective (if such an expression can be made), again - still speaking for myself:
"Real compassion kicks butt and takes names and is not pleasant on certain days. If you are not ready for this FIRE, then find a 'New Age' sweetness and light, perpetually smiling teacher and learn to re-label your ego with spiritual sounding terms. But, stay away from people who practice REAL COMPASSION, because they will FRY YOUR ASS, my friend." ~ Ken Wilber
So, to me.. I get truth.. sometimes I don't like it. With focus comes awareness, from awareness comes a thing in the mirror, if I see a reflection (think vampire). When I finally see a reflection ("NOT ALWAYS - as I have programs, buffers..), truth, there is growth and I learn to more love and respect those who loved and respected the true part me to offer a mirror (truth, the real image).
Salutations and best of luck!