Originally Posted by
VinceField
You are assuming that the nature of our experiences is somehow different based on essentially no evidence, as I haven't described any of my experiences, simply stated what I've discovered through them. My own experiences began with what you call "OBEs" and eventually evolved to higher dimensions, what many call the "astral," and perhaps even higher. In my experience, it is a mistake to say that these are entirely different types of experiences, as my experience has shown that one is simply a progression of the other, in a different location in the spectrum of consciousness. Of course, it's hard to say exactly "where" you are, except there are divine qualities present in higher dimensions that are absent in lower ones, and there are differing characteristics of one's consciousness depending on the type of experience (RTZ, higher astral, mental, etc).
In my many experiences in the real-time zone, or what you call OBE or the "real world" (actually a reflection of the real world or a nonphysical energetic copy and not the actual physical dimension itself), I've had very few significant experiences, while I've had my share of really mind-blowing and transformative experiences in higher dimensions, what you call "mind experiences," which are anything but "flaky," but rather have made a lasting impression. In my opinion based on my experience, what you call "OBEs" are just as likely to be "mind experiences" as any other type of conscious projection into nonphysical reality.
The fact that you've created such distinct and rigid definitions will likely prove to be more of a limitation than anything else. I would guess that you wouldn't be willing to admit that you may be being deceived by these "shadows" and your perceptions and interpretations are not actually accurate reflection of the reality of the situation. I'm not saying this is the case, but it must remain open as a possibility if one is to be intellectually honest and open minded when one is lacking the undeniable evidence needed to eliminate the possibility. I don't believe it is wise to convince oneself of knowing anything relating to these experiences as an absolute fact. But regardless, I hope everything works out for you and you find what you're looking for out there.