The Empty Chamber Where Brightness is Born
“Something deep in the human soul awakens as things fall apart. Something in the soul knows that everything in this world can become lost. And something in the soul knows how to survive periods of devastation, disorientation and loss. Descent and falling is the way of the soul from its beginning. We each fell from the womb of life when the waters of the inner sea broke and it came time for us to breathe on our own.” 1
The human experience brings us to many thresholds- where the life that we have known changes or shatters. At such times when chaos ensues and one cannot see a clear way forward, the urge to find a solution screams for one to do something.
The most powerful act during such turning points is to use the will to turn TOWARD the unknown without trying to force change upon what is. One can use the will to ALLOW the dissolution and WAIT in the not knowing- in the empty space which is the receptacle for the catalyzing spark that will bring forth new life. Emptiness becomes the ‘ground’ from which the new will come to be.
As we get to know this new territory, it is important to listen for the signals speaking from the body and the heart. This is how a new wisdom emerging from the mystery will show us what we need to know.
This can be incredibly challenging territory, and developing practices to quiet the heart/mind, keep the body strong, and the spirits harmonized is vital to supporting the full unfolding of the changes trying to emerge. Nourishing, healthy food- regular movement practices that are not too strenuous- observing how water flows, connects, nourishes, buoys all that life brings- breathing and meditation practices- noticing beauty- all are ways to help stabilize the spirits.
Sometimes life may bring us to this place before we have enough inner stability to withstand the demands of this level of change. Finding support though a therapist or acupuncturist may be necessary as well as learning through stories of archetypes, myth, and memoirs of those who have survived such transformational journeys. No two journeys will be alike, but there is territory that is universal to which all great myths, legends, and lives speak.
“You have heard of the knowledge that knows, but you have never heard of the knowledge that does not know. Look into that closed room, the empty chamber where brightness is born!” 2
2 Watson, Burton ‘Zhuangzi: Basic Writings’ p.53
About the Author: Monique Gaboury is a licensed acupuncturist, in Freeland, WA, specializing in Alchemical Acupuncture. She loves sharing her passion for natural healing at her clinic and through writing her blog ’Nourishing Change Through Connection’.
Juniper Medicine Alchemical Acupuncture serving the greater Seattle area on Whidbey Island. To schedule an appointment call 360-672-1506 or email contact@junipermedicinewhidbey.com.
