The Cosmic Egg of Meaning: How We Make Sense of Our Lives

Lately, I’ve been reflecting on a framework called the Cosmic Egg of Meaning, developed by spiritual teacher and writer Richard Rohr. It’s a tool for understanding the different layers through which we make meaning in life, and it offers a gentle way of noticing where we tend to live from—and where we may feel stuck or disconnected.

The Three Layers of Meaning

Rohr suggests that human beings engage with meaning at three interrelated levels:

🟡 My Story – Your personal life narrative, memories, identity, and experiences

⚪ Our Story – The collective story of your group: family, religion, nation, culture, political community

🥚 The Story – The universal or sacred story of being human: love, loss, transformation, impermanence, and connection

He uses the metaphor of an egg to illustrate how these layers interact: the yolk (my story) is held by the egg white (our story), and the shell (the story) holds them both. Each layer offers its own kind of meaning—but no single one is complete on its own.

When “Our Story” Becomes the Whole Story

Much of my early life in the Christian church was focused on our story. The teachings, values, and norms of the group were clear and tightly held. There were strong messages—sometimes subtle, sometimes overt—about what it meant to belong. Being “in” or “out” of the group carried real emotional and relational weight.

In that environment, focusing too much on my story—especially if it diverged from the group narrative—was discouraged. I learned how to bypass my own inner knowing in favor of the group’s version of truth.

And our story was often presented as if it was the story: the only true interpretation of life, God, and meaning. Dissenting views weren’t just wrong—they were dangerous.

What Happens When the Story Cracks?

Eventually, I found myself stepping away from that collective story. But without a strong connection to my story, and without a clear sense of a larger story to orient myself to, I felt lost. Untethered. Like I was being swallowed up by nothingness.

Over the years, I’ve slowly learned how to live from a more grounded and compassionate version of my story—one that makes room for grief, nuance, doubt, and growth. And I’ve begun to sense that there is, perhaps, a larger story—a universal story of being human—that doesn’t belong to any one group. One that doesn’t require certainty, but allows for curiosity, healing, and transformation.

How We Move Through the Layers

Sometimes, a life disruption is what wakes us up to these different layers. A breakup. A death. A faith crisis. A move. A betrayal. A moment of profound beauty or connection.

Sometimes, it’s slower: a gradual realization that the story we’ve inherited no longer fits.

And sometimes, we just need help navigating what comes next.

Wherever you are, it can be helpful to pause and ask:

• What layer am I living from today?
• What stories are shaping how I see myself and the world?
• Is there a layer I’ve been neglecting—or one I’m ready to grow into?

Ready to Explore the Stories That Shape You?

If you’re in a season of questioning or untangling old beliefs—especially around religion, spirituality, or belonging—I’d be honored to walk with you.

I offer individual therapy for clients navigating grief, identity transitions, and religious trauma, and I’m currently forming a therapy group specifically for individuals healing from harmful religious experiences and/or exploring spiritual deconstruction.

This group is a space for honest reflection, meaningful connection, and compassionate support—without pressure to believe or perform a certain way.

👉 Learn more or inquire about joining the group here: katiewebbpsychotherapy.com/religious-trauma-group-therapy 

About the Author

Katie Webb, LPC is a psychotherapist in Austin, Texas at Louis Laves-Webb, LCSW, LPC-S & Associates. She works from a psychodynamic, relational, and existential framework, supporting individuals navigating grief, religious trauma, identity shifts, and emotional disconnection. Katie believes healing begins with honest contact—with ourselves, with others, and with the stories we’ve been carrying.

Visit her website at katiewebbpsychotherapy.com or reach out directly to connect.