11. The Desert

CROSSING THE THRESHOLD; AUTHENTIC SELF; TRANSCENDENCE; GENESIS; COURAGE

I am ready to find myself. I let go of what I resist.

Dusk breaks into the veil of twilight, as the desert sands swirl and collide, enveloping the seeker as he pushes on toward a light ahead.

In the distance, the glow of an otherworldly temple cuts through the obscurity of the storm. At the horizon, this vision appears hazy and bright—a mirage in the dark void. Twenty more paces, and he steps through the portal...

Often depicted as a barren void where life cannot thrive, the desert has been known to hold its own numinous mysteries. These corners of the world receive very little precipitation and house a deep sense of wild and unruly chaos that moves with the wind.

As a mirror into the language of spirit and self, the desert can indicate feelings of isolation or exile, embodying a place where we wander the world without finding our bearings. In this liminal space, we are forced to move toward the unknown, as we are left exposed with only our soul to guide us. These chasms reflect the life-changing events that completely shake our worldview. To move through the desert means to reorient ourselves from a much higher place of spirit—once we cross beyond the threshold of our own awakening. Here, we stand face-to-face with the nature of our true self. Without artifice. Without earthly attachments. Without ego. Without fear. Often, this defines who we fully, truly are once we emerge out of the shadows. This is a holy reckoning that only makes us wiser and stronger.

A positive omen shines upon you, dear traveler, as you move through the obscurity of the storms that arise. The journey ahead is like a sacred undoing; one that will take you deep into the heart of the desert, where you will face yourself with total clarity and truth. Remember, this is a transformative phase in your life, as the trials you encounter are simply stepping stones along a path of self-discovery and growth. With each stride you take, you will find that you are becoming more resilient and in tune with a newfound wisdom within you. Move toward the light of your brilliant soul gems and strengths. These challenges will only propel your perseverance and reinforce your endurance. Allow yourself to believe in your potential, and let these tests amplify your courage.

What do I prioritize in life, above all else?