(Above: Pluto re-enters Capricorn. Full Moon Eclipse in Pisces. The Sun enters Libra.)

Sweet are the uses of adversity,
Which, like the toad, ugly and venomous,
Wears yet a precious jewel in his head;
And this our life, exempt from public haunt,
Finds tongues in trees, books in the running brooks,
Sermons in stones, and good in every thing.
— William Shakespeare

There are no escaping rough patches. They can last days, weeks, or years.

By in large, we are not taught about the value of adversity and how such times are potent and beautiful opportunities to become more human through the shedding of the things that make us less so, namely our pettiness and self-centeredness.

During these transits — and they are transits, as in transitory — we get squeezed. So-called negative emotions ooze out of us, such as anger, fear, jealousy, and aversion, to name a few.

We learn about our powerlessness against reality. We can’t change what we want to change, i.e., what we think will make us feel better.

Feeling better is a small goal. Many of the healthiest, fittest, and most comfortable among us are still stricken with egotism and the unconscious pain of an unrealized existence. You don’t really want that.

You want to know who and what you are, and one of the best, if not the best, vehicles for achieving this is adversity. Difficult circumstances you would rather wish away.

That is the value of longer transits of difficulty. They lessen your grip of control and make you more flexible, compassionate, and understanding. Your gaze turns inward, less toward outward achievement and meeting society's expectations.

Our friend, Thích Nhất Hạnh, was famous for his phrase, “No mud, no lotus.” It’s all too true.

Without the mud of existence — the darkness — there cannot be the beautiful blossoming of the light. They co-exist.

Embrace your darkness and your dark times — it won’t last forever.

And when you start to sense and feel the difficulty coming to the end of its due course — walk away from it… don’t run. Rejoice in silence and know that you would not have gained the riches you gained without it.

All is well. 🙏🏻

Suggested Use
- Have pen and paper ready.
- Read this passage once.
- Then, reread it a little more slowly. Pause. Reflect.
- Journal any connections or intentions that come to you.
- Come back a few days later and read again.
- Repeat two or three more times.

There is no correct answer. Only take what resonates.
Kindly share these words if you feel another could benefit.

ॐ शान्तिः