A Case for Clarity

"In a world that is constantly trying to make you something else, the greatest accomplishment is to be yourself." 

– Ralph Waldo Emerson

Since the first day at Más Allá, we have three guiding principles for those who wish to work within our DAO; no lying, no stealing, and no inebriation.

These rules might appear almost too simplistic at first glance, yet they are the lower foundation upon which we build our community.

They are not just policies; they are reflections of the values we hold dear as we strive to create a sanctuary for healing and growth.

My perspective on alcohol is informed by a deep and personal connection to it.

I grew up in a family of Canadian wine and spirit makers, and my professional journey took me even further down this path—I became a sommelier, immersed in the world of wine, exploring its nuances, and understanding the intricate science of oenology in wine laboratories. My early life and career were dedicated to appreciating the art of alcohol in its many forms.

But over time, especially since relocating to Central America, my views shifted.

Living here, I have witnessed the profound impact alcohol can have on communities. It’s not just the individual who suffers; it’s the collective spirit of the community that bears the weight of its effects. I’ve seen how alcohol can fracture relationships, diminish the potential of spaces meant for growth, and erode the sense of safety and sanctuary that we strive to cultivate at Más Allá.

As I reflect on the damage I see in the local indigenous communities, I cannot help but draw a parallel to the history of my own country. In Canada, alcohol was not just a substance; it was a tool—a tool of colonization and destruction, used to weaken and control the native populations. The scars of this history are still visible today, in the struggles of Indigenous peoples who continue to face the long-lasting effects of this systemic harm.

Here in Central America, I see a similar story unfolding. Alcohol is again being used as a means of eroding the strength of indigenous communities, as a way to dull their resistance and diminish their vibrant cultures. The consequences are devastating, leading to broken families, lost traditions, and communities that struggle to heal from the wounds inflicted upon them.

In a place like Más Allá, where our goal is to birth a healing sanctuary, the presence of alcohol would be impossible. We aim to create an environment where every individual can thrive in their highest state, unclouded and fully present. Alcohol, in its very nature, stands in opposition to this goal. It dulls the senses, numbs the spirit, and creates a barrier to true connection—with oneself, with others, and with the land.

This brings me to the yogic principle of Satya, the path of truth. In the practice of yoga, truth is not merely about being honest in word and deed; it is about living in alignment with the ultimate truth, about striving to be in harmony with the highest vibration of life. To walk this path, one must remain clear, conscious, and fully aware. Alcohol, by its very design, pulls us away from this clarity, tempting us with an escape from reality at the cost of our authenticity and presence.

At Más Allá, we envision a community where each member is empowered to govern themselves with wisdom and integrity. This is the essence of self-governance and self-sovereignty. But to truly embrace these ideals, we must be willing to confront the influences that diminish our capacity for self-awareness and authentic living. For those on a path of self-realization, seeking to elevate their vibration and deepen their connection to life, alcohol often stands as an obstacle rather than an aid.

I understand that this perspective might challenge some long-held beliefs, especially given the deep cultural roots of alcohol in human history. Yet, as we reflect on the impact it has on our communities and on our ability to create spaces of true healing, I believe it is worth reconsidering its place in our lives.

Más Allá is more than just a physical space; it is a vision of what is possible when we align our actions with our highest intentions. The decision to exclude alcohol from our community is not about restriction—it is about liberation. It is about freeing ourselves from the chains of substances that diminish our light and obscure our path. In doing so, we create a sanctuary where the clarity of mind, the purity of spirit, and the integrity of heart can flourish.

I share this reflection not as an imposition, but as an invitation. An invitation to consider how our choices, particularly those involving substances like alcohol, align with the lives we wish to lead and the communities we wish to build. At Más Allá, we are committed to nurturing a space where truth, healing, and connection can thrive. And in this space, we have chosen a path free from alcohol, in the hope that it will allow us to fully embrace the vibrant, connected, and truth-centered community we aspire to be.

I invite you to support our mission, to engage with our community, and to join us in creating a space where healing and growth are not just possible—they are inevitable. Together, let us walk the path of truth, towards a brighter, clearer, and more authentic future.