Mastering Inner Demons What are demons? In this model, they are "any internal force or idea that separates us from others psychologically." Demons can be negative aspects of religious, nationalistic, philosophical, or idealistic belief systems. They can be biological imperatives, such as defending territory. Astral entities are the traditional form of demons. And although astral entities are external forces, they can operate on the internal planes. Demons also can be bad psychological habits like faultfinding, or they can be racial or sexual prejudices. They can be the result of ego. The point, however, is not *what* demons are, but what they *do*. They destroy unity and cause us to feel separate. Demonic energy polarizes. You become possessed and have to act out its program. You need strong medicine to break the spell. That is why we use the word "demon": it has a strong impact on the emotions. When you use the phrase, "The demon's got me," it packs enough primal punch to snap you back to consciousness. That's half the battle. Often, one person's demons will trigger yours. Avoid blaming others for your troubles, because that goes nowhere. For example, you are cruising down the highway. Suddenly, some guy, possessed, cuts right in front of you. You hit the brakes and the horn, and you yell. The Anger Demon is using you. If you can think, "Ah! The Anger Demon has me," then you can do *what is right* even if the demon is insisting otherwise. You leave the state of enemy consciousness. As you master this skill, you stay "enemy free" for longer periods and bounce back more readily after an attack. You become resilient. These are signs of spiritual advancement. Species of Demons Many varieties of demons exist. Labeling them is important, because it awakens you to the real problem. Once awake, you are no longer an unconscious robot-victim. Here, we divide demons into six categories, some of which may overlap. Introvert Demons Introvert demons make you compare yourself to others and feel inferior. Here is a sampling of these demons: The Martyr Demon; the Victim; the Inferior; the Guilt; the Shame; the Fear; the Excuse-For-Everything; the Inadequate; the Klutz; and the Incapable Demon. Extrovert Demons Extrovert demons make you compare yourself to others and feel superior. Here is a sampling of these demons: The Self-Righteousness Demon; the Pride; the Fault Finder; the Being Right; the Intolerant; the Indignant; the Aggressive; the Controlling; the Cold; the Cruel; and the Impatient Demon. Seeking Demons Seeking demons make you lower yourself so others will accept you. Denier ("Bureaucrat") Demons Denier demons like to reject or say No to others. This gives them a sense of power. User ("Chameleon") Demons These manipulators try to get something from others by indirect means. Their favorite tool is dishonesty. Biotic Demons Biotic demons are part of the body's survival system. We have divided them into four subcategories. 1. Survival Demons: These kick in when someone threatens your survival. 2. Mating Demons: Jealousy and Possession demons are featured here. 3. Territorial Demons: Defending territory is the issue. Get out of my space. 4. Hierarchy Demons: Who's the Boss? Miscellaneous If you run across a demon not listed above, observe it; then, make up a descriptive name for it. Exceptions Sometimes, these states of mind are not demonic, so you need to evaluate each as it arises. For example, the Introverts Guilt and Shame can both have positive social value. You *should* feel guilty if you hurt someone you love. Those who lack the ability to feel guilt or shame make the best killers. Then we have the Extrovert, Pride. Feeling pride in one's self, family, religion, gender, race, or country can be a positive and supportive psychological mechanism. The physical and psychological Biotic demons have evolved over millions of years. They have kept the species alive and allowed us to inherit (or take over) the earth. They have served well and still have their uses. Remember also that different levels of skill, talent, and gifts exist. Maybe you compose music. Don't feel bad if you are not as gifted as, say, Beethoven, though. We are equal but have different qualities. Exorcism The traditional way to remove a demon is by exorcism. As always, the first step is to recognize they are there manipulating you. Then, you can release them. One simple technique is to *stay awake throughout the attack*. Doing this, you convert *unconscious* suffering into *conscious* suffering. This spurs both your conscious and unconscious systems into changing your attitude, understanding, relationship, or action. Yet another method is to build a bridge between you and the one from whom you are separated. You can apologize, make a friendly gesture, touch, do a favor, or anything appropriate that helps heal the relationship. Repenting is good medicine. Here is a metaphysical technique. Say, "[Anger] Demon, I release you into the Light of God." Stampede Once you begin facing your demons, you may feel as if hordes of them have ganged up on you. However, they have not; they were always there. You were just unaware of their influence. Remember that the point is not to start a demon hunt. Rather, use this information to become aware of their presence. This is an opportunity to clear some inner space, to become lighter, and to make room so you can embody more of your spirit. Like this, you become an active agent in the Spiritualization of Matter. .............. Rev. Dr. Evin O'Ryan Starbuilders/ULC www.starbuilders.org