Hurt is the Lesson, Wisdom is the Blessing

As human beings, we embody a microcosm of the vast universe itself. To truly embrace this existence from both scientific and spiritual perspectives, we must recognize that life is a continuous dance
between light and dark, sacred and profane, order and chaos.

These apparent conflicts manifest not only in our external reality but also, most profoundly, within the depths of our individual psyches. Without understanding, these inner struggles can become daunting
experiences.

It's essential to acknowledge that, in some spiritual traditions, particularly in Christian Mysticism, the darker moments in our inner lives are considered essential for spiritual growth and psychological evolution. This phase is often referred to as the "dark night of the soul."

In "The Gift of Change," Marianne Williamson teaches us that the crucifixion and the tomb experience were crucial precursors to the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Marianne goes further to explain that
"crucifixions take us into the darkness of the soul, where we wrestle with the demons of shame and loathing," whether these demons are internal or projected by others during difficult times. She emphasizes that it's at this point that we are challenged to let go of judgment and
hate.

Nature, as our greatest teacher, does not differentiate between light and dark, sunshine and hurricane, as inherently good or bad. Nature simply provides what the Earth requires, and what needs to be
cleansed is ultimately swept away. For instance, from an Eastern philosophical perspective, even the destructive power of hurricanes like Harvey can be seen as rajasic/tamasic (powerfully active and
destructive). By viewing such natural phenomena as necessary components of ecological balance, we might interpret their effects as both rajasic/tamasic and sattvic (harmonious and balancing), serving
as a means to achieve overall equilibrium.

Gregg Braden, in "Secrets of the Lost Mode of Prayer," teaches us that "hurt is the lesson, wisdom is the blessing." So, during those times when we feel most uncertain, wrong, profoundly isolated, and
alone, could they, in fact, be moments we must learn to embrace?

What if we could genuinely shift our perspective and wholeheartedly accept these dark times as integral to the beautifully imperfect journey towards resurrection, self-realization, and the unveiling of truth and bliss? What if we adopted a sattvic approach to the dark night, releasing any resistance to this "crucifixion and tomb time" and instead viewing it as a shedding of prejudice, self-loathing, fear of
failure, and hurt?

This would imply that we become more proactive during these challenging periods, nurturing a sense of humility and acceptance. By embracing doubt and fear, we would empower ourselves to face adversity with determination, relinquishing attachment to the fruits of our actions, cultivating an observer's mind, and finding purpose in the service of love.

Imagine challenging yourself to live passionately for a cause you believe in, working in a way that allows you to confront fear head-on. Consider these moments as opportunities to bravely navigate
perceived failures and evolve into the Warrior of Light and Sage you are steadily becoming.
Take inspiration from figures like Mother Teresa, who, during her own dark nights, used these experiences as motivation to continue loving and serving others. I personally believe that it is possible, having battled depression myself, that the many individuals grappling with this syndrome could find solace and empowerment by interpreting it as a vital step toward their own resurrection, leading to the revelation of total bliss and love.

My personal practice of loving more during my darkest nights fuels my desire to teach and offer whatever I can to serve others. The profound privilege of being a yoga teacher and a leader in the RY
community provides me with opportunities to be an alchemist, transforming my own darkness into a guiding light for others. For this, I am deeply grateful to the kula of Rasa Yoga and all the beings I
encounter who allow me to share the light with them. It is a precious gift from the divine, one that I do not take lightly.

With Infinite Love,
Padma Shakti