Spiritual gatekeeping happens when individuals or groups insist that their particular framework or thread is the ultimate truth, often dismissing other perspectives. The threads model actively resists this by emphasizing its ontological neutrality and inclusivity. It validates the existence of multiple threads, each of which offers a legitimate way of understanding and engaging with spirituality. For example, someone in a Buddhist context might focus on the emptiness thread, while another person might resonate more with the energy thread in yogic practice or the psyche thread in a shamanic tradition. Rather than setting these perspectives against each other, the threads model creates space for all of them to coexist. By doing so, it undermines the gatekeeping mentality and fosters an environment of mutual respect and curiosity.

When engaging with conflicting spiritual frameworks, it’s important to approach them with a sense of curiosity and discernment. Each framework has its strengths and limitations, and understanding what each is designed to address can help you navigate them more skillfully. For example, if you’re seeking guidance on trauma, a Buddhist emptiness framework might not be the most helpful place to start; instead, you might find more support in a psyche- or energy-focused thread. The key is to recognize that no single framework can address all aspects of human experience. Having a broader model, like the threads model, can help you integrate insights from multiple frameworks without feeling constrained by any one of them. This approach allows you to draw from the strengths of each tradition while remaining true to your own unique path.

Dealing with authority figures who dismiss or invalidate your experiences can be challenging and disheartening. It’s crucial to remember that their perspective is often shaped by their own conditioning and the limitations of the framework they’re operating within. Their dismissal doesn’t diminish the validity of your experience. In such situations, it can be helpful to step back and ask whether this authority figure or group is the right fit for your current needs. Sometimes, it’s best to seek support from more inclusive communities that value a diversity of experiences. Building inner confidence in your own insights and perspectives is also important. Over time, developing this inner authority can help you navigate dismissive environments with resilience and clarity.