Symbols are the powers that resist change or open the way to creative change when it is needed. Symbols are, in fact, metaphoric events that arise through the poetic powers of the human species. This reification of the higher order realities that are mediated in symbolization is the peculiar idolatry of the modern age. With all their promise, Western symbols have revealed their corruption. To transcend the crisis of Western spirituality and the imminent destruction of non-Western peoples, at least on the level of understanding and ideology, a new paradigm and spiritual foundation are required.
Metaphors are bridges that order the nature of our collective and individual humanity.
Metaphor provides the reality to the pattern language of thought for it is the mechanism of ordering newness. Language only lives when each person has his or her own version that must constantly be re-created in each person's mind as he or she interacts with others in the environment. It is only through understanding these inner patterns that we can begin to consciously bring the outer pattern of our lives into harmony.