Ready to make a massive shift in how you’re relating and living your life? I offer 1:1 Shadow Work Journeys for those ready to embody the life they keep imagining. You can read more here and schedule a Free 30-min Discovery Call. Summary In this conversation, Michael Simmons explores the concept of projection and idealization, particularly in relation to spirituality and the divine. He discusses how individuals often project their own qualities onto others, especially figures like Jesus, and the implications of this for personal growth and self-empowerment. The conversation emphasizes the importance of reclaiming one's own 'gold'—the qualities and strengths that have been idealized in others—and integrating them into one's own life. Simmons critiques the church's role in this dynamic, likening it to a multi-level marketing organization that often leads to a psychological split between the idealized self and the shadow self. Ultimately, he encourages listeners to recognize their own divinity and the light within themselves, advocating for a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Projection and Idealization 03:50 The Nature of Projection in Personal Growth 07:10 The Role of Idealization in Spirituality 10:07 Jesus as a Gold Carrier: The Psychological Implications 13:08 The Cross as a Metaphor for Personal Burden 16:02 The Dangers of Outsourcing Spirituality 19:04 The Impact of Idealization on Self-Perception 21:51 The Multi-Level Marketing Analogy in Church Dynamics 25:14 Reclaiming Your Gold: The Process of Integration 28:00 The Exchange of Gold: A Path to Empowerment 30:55 The Invitation of Jesus: Embodying Your Own Divinity 33:50 The Power of Faith and Personal Agency 37:13 Conclusion: Embracing Your Inner Light