Dark Welcome

Don’t rush me
to the Light.
I need to
soak in my tears
in the mothering darkness.

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Questions for Contemplation

In many ways we are a ‘feel-good’ culture. We value light over darkness, but both are integral parts of life. A common tendency when we’re experiencing any type of pain is to rise above the discomfort as quickly as possible. Accepting our light and shadows is part of the journey towards wholeness – an ongoing process of uncovering and embracing our human and infinite nature.

The dark contains many rich gifts, such as depth, the capacity to feel, mystery, myth and magic, deep Silence, creative abilities, passion and the ability to feel compassion and empathy for the suffering of others. Exploring the shadow offers opportunities to reclaim parts of ourselves that we’ve repressed or denied.

If you feel drawn to do so, reflect on or write in response to the following questions. What is your relationship to the dark? What gifts have you discovered when you have explored your shadow?

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