How to Live a Fantastic Life with Dr. Allen Lycka

Guest: Forrest Rivers | Episode Title: Humanity’s Spiritual Rebirth with Forrest Rivers

Introduction

In this soulful and inspiring episode, Dr. Allen Lycka welcomes Forrest Rivers—spiritual seeker, nature lover, and author of The Hippie Revival and Collected Writings and Humanity’s Spiritual Rebirth: Lessons Learned and Lived from a Pandemic. Forrest shares how personal struggle, nature, and spiritual awakening have shaped his life and mission to uplift others.

The Awakening: From Darkness to Light

Forrest candidly reflects on his battle with alcohol abuse and how a transformative experience on the island of Maui initiated his spiritual awakening. Nature became his sanctuary and guide, inspiring him to write and speak on the potential for inner peace and growth through suffering.

The Pandemic as a Catalyst for Rebirth

Dr. Lycka and Forrest explore the pandemic as a global reset. While many still grapple with anger, depression, and denial, Forrest believes that the time is ripe for integrating the lessons of hardship into a higher collective consciousness. He remains hopeful that personal and global challenges are precursors to spiritual elevation.

The Kindness Within

Dr. Lycka shares an uplifting story from the Gross Happiness Conference in Costa Rica, describing how kindness and spiritual intention are deeply embedded in humanity. Forrest agrees, drawing attention to the innate purity in today’s youth and the potential for widespread awakening—despite modern distractions.

The Healing Power of Nature

Forrest describes nature as his "saving grace." For him, time in the wilderness restores clarity and reconnects us with the divine. He advises others to spend even a few minutes outside daily to foster peace and connection—no hiking boots required.

Balancing Spirituality and Technology

In a world of screens and constant stimulation, Forrest admits even he struggles with mindless scrolling. But he emphasizes the need for intentionality and discipline. Daily spiritual practices like meditation, journaling, and digital detoxes can bring people back into alignment with their true selves.

A Modern Hippie Revival?

Dr. Lycka draws parallels between today’s spiritual yearning and the 1960s hippie movement. Forrest agrees, suggesting that the issues of war, inequality, and disillusionment have intensified. Yet this also sets the stage for a more profound spiritual resurgence, fueled by a longing for peace and meaning.

Love Over Fear

Quoting Martin Luther King Jr., both men affirm that light triumphs over darkness and love over hate. Forrest reminds listeners that love is the strongest force in the universe—and it is manifesting in ways that signal hope.

Forrest’s Golden Keys to a Fantastic Life

1. Gratitude: Struggles make us grateful, grounding us in appreciation for life’s gifts.
2. Purpose: True joy comes from serving something greater than oneself.

Advice to His Younger Self

To his younger, struggling self, Forrest would say: “You will prevail. Keep the faith, stay focused, and seek meaning in connection and service.”

Connect with Forrest Rivers

• 📘 Humanity’s Spiritual Rebirth is available on Amazon
• 🌐 Website: www.forrestrivers.com
• 📘 Facebook: Forrest Rivers Author Page
• 📺 YouTube: Search “Forrest Rivers”

Closing Thoughts from Dr. Lycka

Visit www.drallenlycka.com to receive your weekly Golden Pearls of Wisdom and discover how to live your most fantastic life.

BIO:

Forrest Rivers is a seeker and lover of the earth who enjoys hiking with his dog, Abbie. He is the author of The Hippie Revival and Collected Writings and Humanity’s Spiritual Rebirth: Lessons Lived and Learned from a Pandemic.

Social Media:

Website: https://forrestrivers.com/

Social Media Links:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100069110064900

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michaelwlenz/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@forrestrivers475