The folklore and mythologies of our western patriarchies are rife with women unwittingly wreaking havoc on the world and themselves. From Pandora and her box to Eve and her apple to Bluebeard's wife and that bloody key - these women were all bestowed with tantalizing gifts which they were strictly forbidden to use? I smelled a rat even at a young age.
My first thought upon hearing the Adam and Eve tale in bible school was: Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil? Tell me more, please. I too enjoy apples. My child-brain knew that ignorance could never be bliss and the notion of walking every day by some magical, fruit-laden, wisdom tree without partaking of its gifts seemed cruel and impossible.
Thank Godness for Pandora and Eve and their insatiable curiosity that set us free because, as Thich Nhat Hanh said, “My definition of the Kingdom of God is not a place where there is no suffering… because I could not like to go to a place where there is no suffering. I could not like to send my children to a place where there is no suffering, because in such a place they have no ways to learn how to be understanding and compassionate. And the Kingdom of God is a place where there is understanding and compassion; and therefore, suffering should exist."
What if there is a gift box, a tree, a key, hidden deep within each one of us that holds our wildest dreams, our most precious hopes, our deepest longings - the stuff we’re too often afraid to name, for fear of the doubt and regret that also gets unleashed in the process? What if, after centuries of living under the patriarchy, we are conditioned to every day walk right by our magical, fruit-laden, wisdom tree without partaking of its gifts?
For this special, first gathering of the year, I’ll be offering safe and brave space to make our journeys back to the garden. Your gifts were not meant to wither on the vine. Yes, with knowledge can come suffering, but therein lies the liberatory powers of understanding, self-compassion and unfettered, unconditional joy.
PS. If you’ve developed some Zoom fatigue over these past couple of years, remember that these Full Moon Gatherings aren’t passive lectures to sit through, but guided, participatory workshops. Each gathering is unique with specific meditations and embodiment practices that I develop around that evening’s theme. My aim is to keep things fresh and surprising so you have a visceral, provocative experience reconnecting you to the wonder and preciousness of life. Also note you aren’t required to share your experience with the group - you can keep your mic on mute for the duration if you’d like. Some of my fave unsolicited feedback from participants includes:
Truly one of the most transcendent experiences of my life. Thank you again.
It was especially meaningful and helpful to me, and I believe was a catalyst for opening up something that has been stuck for a very long time inside of me.
Thank you again for bringing us all together. It truly resonated deeply and I'm very grateful.
Donation-based. Most folks contribute $10-25. (Low on funds? You're still always welcome.)
Please forward this to anyone who might benefit.
Image: "Pandora" by John William Waterhouse, 1896
For my returning clients or anyone looking to examine precisely what’s preventing you from achieving your goals and where you’re being called to shift your focus, Course Correction is a brass tacks support rally to clear out the noise and reclaim your power.
You’ll email me a few details ahead of time so that we can jump right into our half hour together with a clear agenda. We’ll examine what’s working in your life and how to lean deeper into those areas. And we’ll let the tarot reveal the subtle or unconscious dynamics that are holding you back, keeping you small or otherwise preventing you from success. You’ll leave clear-headed and reinvigorated with some practical mind/body tools to keep you tethered to your purpose on the road ahead. More...
New Moon Gathering 🌑 March 2, 6PM PST
The new moon will be plunging through the watery depths of Pisces, the last stage of the zodiacal journey. For this gathering, we'll reflect on where we've been and what we've learned and we'll draw some tarot cards to see what this new cycle has in store.
The new moon gatherings are about showing up and sharing with the group. We come with questions and quandaries; we leave with fresh insights and a renewed sense of belonging. All are welcome.
