Pennsylvania native Anthony “Tony” Kenton was never one to accept simple explanations to questions about life and human existence. During his formative years, he explored beyond the status quo, and his quest to dig deeper into the enigmas of our world led him to metaphysics—a philosophy that explores the fundamental nature of reality.

“Unfortunately, our society and culture do not provide all the answers to life and our physical reality,” Kenton observes. “To understand life, we must first understand that man is spirit experiencing a human, physical life.”

Metaphysical practices maintain a central role in Kenton’s everyday life. He was president of the New Hope Channelers Support Group (now known as New Hope Metaphysical Society) and, in 1999, he co-founded the Society for Metaphysical Enlightenment (SME) with Rose Moyer, a gifted medium.

SME promotes metaphysics in eastern Pennsylvania and networks with other like-minded groups and organizations throughout the Mid-Atlantic region. Over the years, the study of metaphysics has grown to encompass astrology, meditation, self-help, psychic abilities, numerology and other holistic practices. “There are a lot of ways to help the physical body and mind exist in this physical realm, and these disciplines all help in life’s journey and growth,” Kenton says.

Through SME, Kenton leads a board of six directors to organize expos and events. Its annual fall event, Spiritfest, takes place this year from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., October 28, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., October 29. SME also hosts the Solstice Expo & Holistic Fair each June. Proceeds from both events benefit charities and interfaith churches.

“One of our strong suits is the quality of our speakers,” Kenton says of the expos. “We try to line up the most interesting and challenging speakers that we can get.” High profile lecturers have recently included psychic and author Elizabeth Joyce, numerologist Jack Toffler and Greek clairvoyant Thalia Alexiou.

Kenton believes metaphysical concepts can help others realize that, although negativity can divide the nation and the world, people will inevitably come together. He cites rescue efforts after hurricanes Harvey and Irma as recent examples of how people can work together for good, even in bad situations.

Kenton’s book, Who Am I? Where Am I? What Am I Doing Here?, can be read on the SME website. His forthcoming book works with the premise that we are all one, and that the universe exists mentally first and is then manifested into tangible reality.

“We’re in a physical reality, which is also a duality, so, we are closer to one another than people realize,” Kenton says, adding, “There’s always going to be an element of greed and self-indulgence, but I think we’re on the right track.”

For more information about the Society for Metaphysical Enlightenment or Spiritfest, call 267-261-2768 or visit WeAreSME.com.

Sheila Julson is a Milwaukee-based writer and regular contributor to Natural Awakenings magazines throughout the country.