Connection or Deception?

I read an article today [thank you, Greg :)] about the neurological phenomenon of feeling separate from the universe, or, in the case of the removal of this mental barrier, feeling one with the universe. It suggested that the brain will inherently equip an individual with the concept of being solitary within the greater whole of the universe, and that by eliminating this cerebral veil (either by the use of hallucinogenic drugs or via some other natural psychoactive chemical process), one experiences what they sense to be a spiritual experience making them feel united with a greater whole. The article suggests (or at least it did to me) that this bonding with nature is somehow an unnatural condition that dupes the human psyche into embracing the concept of a higher power (i.e. religiosity). In summary, the article seems to suggest that belief in God and feelings of universal connectedness are merely the result of mental breakdown.

Sure, I think that there is a scientific rationale for all things mystical, albeit a primitive and incomplete explanation. What we can concretely measure and objectively observe with our current (inferior) methods is all that we can "prove" with our contemporary scientific methodology. But I have something immeasurable within me. My mind, my spirit, and my soul extend far beyond the walls of perceptible, measurable science. That I know. That I believe.

There are times when I feel all alone in this world. It is as if I am an alien being amidst a hustling, bustling, interactive society which continually ebbs and flows all around me. It is a culture in which I feel foreign, unwanted and unimportant. Yet, there are other moments when I feel inherently a part of all there is. I am the water. I am the sky. I am the grass. I am the sun. I am the trees. I am the wind. I am the rain. I am one with all life. It is in those moments where my life-force joins together with all that has ever lived that I feel most alive.

I would like to contest the notion that having this inherent individuation is "normal" or even desirable. I hold the belief that we are all part of the Divine; that each person is a unique expression of God. I also believe that we are born with intentional amnesia regarding our Divine origin and that the ultimate purpose of our lives is to rediscover and reconnect with our sacred lineage. This process is enlightenment. It connects us to all. It makes us one with All There Is. I can think of nothing more beautiful or profound.