Dark Night of the Soul is the title given to a poem by 16th-century Spanish poet and Roman Catholic mystic Saint John of the Cross. A ‘dark night of the soul’ is an identity crisis where someone experiences drastic changes to their meaning system (i.e., their unique purposes, goals, values, attitude and beliefs, identity, and focus) typically because of a spontaneous spiritual experience. A spiritual crisis may cause significant disruption in psychological, social, and occupational functioning.
As I have struggled to understand the results of our recent U.S. election, I first had to grieve and feel the deep sadness for what is going on in people and our country, as well as around the world. Nothing seemed to really explain the depth of the despair, fear, anger and even hatred and desire for revenge that I am seeing.
Then ‘dark night of the soul’ came to me and resonated deeply. I feel like we are experiencing it collectively as well as individually. We are seeing the way of life that we have known for so many years and generations become more fragile and the foundation is getting shaky. Yet the new way of living and being is not very visible. Perhaps we see glimpses and indications but it can be hard to feel secure in the womb of the unknown. We are in transition and it can be scary for all of us.
I hear so much about the divisions in our country. Yet I believe what a dear friend Lance Schuttler, orgonlighthealth.com, says…that everyone wants to be happy and free. Isn’t that what we all want? And if we have these things, wouldn’t we be glad to have everyone be happy and free, too? It seems that the differences arise about how to find the path to freedom and happiness. And it seems elusive to many of us. So we flail about, looking for someone to blame or someone to ‘save’ us from our current discomfort and feeling of lostness. Yet I believe we must find the answers within ourselves and together, not in separation, blaming and fighting.
When individuals are going through a dark night of the soul, it can be hard. Mother Teresa experienced one for many years and so have many other mystics and ordinary people like you and me. But in addition to the challenges, they come bearing gifts-new insights and ways of being that allow us to be more fulfilled, happy and free.
I will close with one of my favorite sayings: ‘it is better to light a single candle than to sit and curse the dark’. May our lights shine brightly and together may we create the path to a free and happy future.
Blessings, Mary
From Gaia, November 10, 2016
Dear ones, my beloved,
When can we see the light most clearly? Indeed it is when there is darkness. That is when the light is most welcome and visible. As each person emerges from their dark night time, they can light the way for others. In time, all will be awake and ready to dance in the warm light.
Rest calmly in this time of massive transition and transformation. Take the eagle’s view. Rise upon the wind to a great height. It is from this vantage point that you can see the flow, the pattern, the phoenix rising from the ashes.
Keep your eyes on the things you share-with each other and all of earth’s creation. Everyone wants to feel safe, to have their basic needs met, as well as some comfort and freedom. Focus on what you share rather than what separates you.
The earth needs your loving care now more than ever. Some still see her as something to ravage and exploit for resources and personal gain. Your tenderness and nurturing bless us all.
I love you, my darlings. I am Gaia, your Earth Mother, your friend
Messages from Gaia 