The answer to the question - does consciousness pervade the universe?, i.e., does consciousness exist outside of the brain aka the individual's mind? - is that there is only One Self perceiving itself as diverse, as variegated, not to feel alone. It is said that everything, including the mind, ultimately comes down to four fundamental concepts: matter and energy interacting in an arena of space and time. The truth is strikingly simple. Time is Self. Space is Self. Energy is Self. Matter is Self. Yes, even gravity is Self. There is nothing but Self perceiving itself as itself. Self is One without a second. Does it matter (no pun intended)? Yes. There obviously is no death for that which is Life is Self experiencing itself as Life diversified not to be alone. It is not good to be alone. It is the feeling of aloneness and the consequent desire for Companionship which is indeed the purpose why Self desires to perceive itself as diversified, as variegated, as man and woman. Loved ones are never really gone for that which is Life is in truth Self. In addition; humankind should cease to fight each other. There is nothing to fight for all plurality is but a singularity and this singularity is Self perceiving itself as plural, as humankind, for the exact opposite reason: not to feel alone, to experience Companionship. It must simply be remembered that the purpose of Life is Companionship, Friendship, the Feeling of Togetherness, Love. Love is the first and greatest commandment rightfully so for the above reasons. All this for Love; not to feel alone. Love one another, there is no other, truth is Self desiring Love. Very simple. Very true.
~ Wald