Ellen F. Franklin, PhD & Donna Carey, LAc
New snow blankets much of the US including places where snow typically does not fall such as Southern California. We were not spared this major event, as a slow-moving storm from west to east, provided us with two feet of fresh snow, high winds, and drifts in excess of three feet. This on top of the many layers of snow we have received throughout the season is in extreme contrast to our recent time in Mexico and needless to say, we are ready for the return of Spring. Although we are blanketed in white, there is an interior sense of the coming of spring. This is a blessing we receive daily in the growing dome where we have an abundance of fresh greens, beets, parsley, cilantro, arugula and winter peas all of which provide a daily reminder of Springs promise. Despite the cold wind there is an energy pushing us to move from internal reflective time out into the world, so much potential and possibility.
The Vernal or March Equinox occurs this year on Wednesday March 20 at 5:58 PM, EDT, representing a true balance between light and dark, that heralds the forward move to more sunlight hours. This is also the first time in 40 years that the equinox occurs on the same day as the Full Moon, and will be the final supermoon of 2019, also called a Worm Moon.
All of these events – have us reflecting on the true nature of living a balanced life – what would it look like? How do you continue to honor all the commitments and responsibilities that frame the life you’ve chosen to live and still find time to pursue the things that bring you the most joy, with time to explore and grow personally? What is it that makes you laugh, encourages play, adventure and a return to the place of Wu Qi. What does it mean to let in more light – to embrace it –and to come into balance with the darkness that is far too prevalent on the planet at this time. We hope you’ll share some of your thoughts with us about these important questions.
Hexagram 11, Tai
We turned to The I Ching or Book of Changes for some insights on these inquiries and the change in season and were drawn immediately to hexagram 11, Tai. This hexagram represents an auspicious conjunction between Heaven and Earth that invites expansion, harmony and peace as Heaven and Earth move together in communion, fulfilling their duality. It brings renewal of life and many blessings. It carries the message that Spring is coming and the flow of energy is strong. Harmony and prosperity are available to us if we find a balanced path forward. It is a time to focus on moving upward toward the light, like a young tree in fertile ground the light and rich soil invites clarity of what it might feel like to be in a state of balance. When confronted by difficulties, it is important to acknowledge them, but to maintain a sense of internal harmony by staying centered and calm in the light of these challenges. This is not a time to force our views on others or try to change their perspective but rather remain open and sincere. The union of Heaven and Earth also speaks to a genuine union among people, the ability to communicate from a place of truth to promote harmony and ease, to live within the laws of nature and to never blame others for where we find ourselves. Having undertaken something and achieved success it is also important to maintain relationships, to care for and support one another on the journeys we choose.
Snow in Spring
Han Yu (768-824)
The new year’s come, but still the plants don’t grow,
First in March I’m startled by grass shoots.
The white snow thinks the colors of spring are late,
So through the pavilion and trees it flies like blossom.
The Sun Never Says
Hafiz (1320-1389)
Even
After
All this time
The sun never says to earth,
“You owe Me.”
Look
What happens
With a love like that,
It lights the
Whole
Sky
Wishing you an abundant and insightful Spring that is filled with light and love.
Ellen & Donna