What do you mean by Chaotic?

In our structure we exist in a state of balance between Chaos and Order. Order is the physical universe and Chaos represents the realm of boundless potential. While there is a metaphysical application viewing Chaos as the primordial essence of nothingness from which the universe came into existence, represented throughout sacred texts as the waters of creation, for us it also serves as the reason we have free will.

The details are complicated but it helps to begin by thinking of the world as already written by the fates. Everything you do is because it was meant to be and nothing you think or do can change that. This is the concept of “Determinism” and is how things would be if there was only Order. Quantum mechanics uses a concept of probabilities which explains why despite it being predetermined, it cannot be predicted. Laplace’s Demon and Chaos Theory are two scientific (physics and mathematics respectfully) examinations of this exact concept. Many people who live by science, especially physicists, tend to see the world this way. For them, free will is an illusion but it is sufficient in its deception that they live out their lives unbothered by it because life for us is novel either way.

Chaotic Heroism tries to avoid having hard fixed points in its beliefs but determinism is something it does outright reject. In the pursuit of purpose and passion, true free will and our capacity to control our destiny and shape the world is at the core of Chaotic Heroism and why we honor Chaos as the source of our freedom.

Is this a Cult?

A “new” religion, honoring Chaos, practicing magical rituals, becoming a hero, with statements like these its understandable that many people have this question. In fact it is welcomed as inquisitive people who think critically are exactly who this structure is for. Don’t worry, the only fruit juice that would be served here is probably freshly squeezed with no additives. In all seriousness, what is important to remember with ideas like these is first whether they are insular as that is a sign of potential nefarious means. The first rule of Chaotic Heroism is “Please, talk about Chaotic Heroism.” The second rule of Chaotic Heroism is “Please, question Chaotic Heroism.” We only grow if we work together with feedback and constructive criticism.

If you are in a controlling practice, the people close to you should insist you take caution, not dig in deeper. We don’t believe in damnation or the need to believe in our faith/god for spiritual salvation. We don’t suggest you’ll be separated from your family if they don’t join with you. We don’t exile you for speaking “blasphemy” or breaking arbitrary rules (though breaking real laws and endangering others may warrant exclusion).

The idea here is simple. We believe in the need to reconnect and strengthen our community that’s increasingly divided and religion has some of the oldest tools just for that. We believe we can use those tools, in a semi-secular way, to incorporate scientifically sound principles of empowerment. We believe in you and your journey to overcome complex traumas and unique struggles on your way to a fulfilling life. We’re doing what we can to lay the groundwork for the next generation to live a better life. Will you take those first steps and heed this call to adventure?

What is a Hero?

Heroes and Heroines here may be best defined by Joseph Campbell. In his book, Hero of a Thousand Faces, he outlined the writing structure we know of as the Hero’s Journey. In it, the protagonist lives an ordinary life that is suddenly changed and they are forced to heed the call to adventure. They face trials with the aid of a mentor and perhaps a pinch of magic and ultimately defeat the monstrous source of discomfort finding themselves forever changed in the process.

While this is a tool for writing great stories, it can also be applied to your own life. Many books have been written outlining the ways the authors believe you can use the Hero’s Journey as a guide to make yourself the center of your life’s story. Learning to step outside of your comfort zone (call to adventure), find community (aid of the mentor), and practice rituals (pinch of magic), you can find yourself facing the obstacles along the path of a passionate life where by the end, if successful, you may just make your dreams a reality.