I just started reading this book from the library and feel it to be one that i would highly recomend. It is written by people who are very educated and dedicated to what they are doing. Many on this board have had mystical experiences and perhaps are woundering what they mean well this book will give you some ideas that you might find helpful.
Here an Amazon.com excert from the book:
Gumby,
I think you might find this book very interesting in light of certain questions you have asked.