SHADOW
This fortnight we are being asked to pay attention as certain hidden parts of ourselves make their way to the surface. There is much to learn about ourselves at this time and this knowledge will help us to ‘know’ ourselves better so that we may be better equipped to handle what lies ahead of us.
This card reminds us of the duality that exists around and within us - there cannot be any light without dark, and there is no dark without light. This is not to say that we do our best to hide and suffocate the dark aspects of ourselves that we wish to keep hidden from others as well as ourselves, not at all! What we need to do is learn about all of the aspects of ourSelf that make us whole and with this knowledge we will be better placed to make the decisions and choices that are required of us in the coming months. Our current lesson is to use all aspects of the Self to create a better life, a better us, and a better world.
These shadow energies help integrate all aspects of our Self so that we can function at a higher vibration, calling to us all that we need to learn and grow as we move forward from this point in time. We cannot go back to how things were - it’s much too late for that. So instead of resisting the ‘undesirable’ aspects of Self that surface for you at this time, allow them to guide you and watch as they bring closure and/or clarity to behaviours, patterns, habits, traits and situations that no longer serve you.
We will come face-to-face with what we perceive to be ‘ugly’ about ourselves and our personality (ego) in the coming weeks so that we can decide once and for all whether they help or hinder our spiritual and personal growth. We will be faced with our fears, and hopefully come to see that they are simply an illusion, a belief that we created once upon a time so that we wouldn’t cause anyone any discomfort by shining our Light, or rules that we created in order to ‘fit in’ - how’s that working out for you by the way?
The time has come to step up and out of the shadows and to claim what is rightfully ours - there may be some rough patches ahead for us, but know that with each challenge comes the opportunity for growth and evolution.
This fortnight, instead of resisting what surfaces, no matter whether we deem it ‘good’ or ‘bad’, allow it the space to show itself - watch it, feel it, BE a part of it, allow it to teach you what it needs to show you about yourself. There is so much potential for growth right now if you are willing to accept what is reflected back at you. Don’t shy away, look at it with confidence, knowing that you are safe and protected, and that whatever it is that’s looking back at you is an illusion - it cannot harm you, it cannot take away your power unless you allow it to.
Our dream state is highlighted and heightened as this is the time when our subconscious can communicate with us without interruption or distraction. Although the symbolism of our dreams can leave us confused, it’s recommended that we pay attention to how we feel upon waking as well as how we felt during the dream. It’s also helpful to note down the major symbols to look at later in the day when you have more time - you won’t remember them all if you try to commit them to memory.
This card’s counterpart in the traditional tarot is The Moon and it brings insights from the moon - no coincidence here seeing as we’re still under the influence of the Full Moon energies of Sunday 30 August (Melbourne time).
Keywords for this fortnight: confidence, Shadow, light, dark, Light, power, reflection, strength, duality, radiance, fear, self-love, learning, lessons, courage, dreams, illusions, breakthrough, the Moon, planetary influences, heightened awareness, sensitivities, moodiness, negativity - choose positive and uplifting thoughts and self-talk.
“Every person has a dark side. What defines a person with good character is not a spotless life of constant kindness, smiles and even temperament - but a willingness to see in themselves their deepest and wildest selves, lust, greed, jealousy and envy. Their complete and authentic self.”
Unknown
May you discover just how powerful, beautiful and majestic you are this fortnight…
<3 Vanda
If you’d like a personalised reading, please visit our readings page.
© Vanda Costa, 31 August 2015
Image: Shadow ~ from the Psychic Tarot Oracle deck by John Holland