spiritual insight
Karmic Fate Versus Free Will Manifestation
We often say things are ‘meant to be,’ or it was ‘fated’ and therefore out of our hands entirely. But is this really true? How much of what happens in our life is pure luck, chance, or predestined fate? How much of our destiny do we actually control?
Many people also believe that we are able to manifest whatever we want. But how is this even possible if there is such a thing as fate? If predestination or divine will rules part, or even most of our life, then surely there must be limitations or restrictions to what we can manifest?
Well, not exactly. There is fate, but there is also free will.
It is my understanding that fate is related to our karmic life lessons, while free will is our capacity to make choices and manifest aspects of our life as we desire. Many people do this unconsciously most of the time. However, as much as we have free will, the karmic lessons we have to learn are still woven into our life choices and integrated with our manifestations.
So, some aspects of our lives are indeed fated certainties. For example, experiencing certain major life events or traumas. These immutable, unchangeable events or outcomes are related to the karmic lessons we have selected to work through in this lifetime.
If a chosen karmic lesson is, for example, is tied to the experience of infertility it may be ‘fated’ that the person who chose this path will not be able to have children of their own in this lifetime, or will at least struggle to do so. This is an example of how a karmic lesson can limit or restrict manifestation. But, while it may preclude the experience of parenthood in this lifetime, it does not block the potential manifestation of parenting experiences – there are other options open to becoming a parent, such as adoption, fostering, or a blended family.
Spiritual Enlightenment Is Not A Fireworks Display
Many seekers desire spiritual fulfillment, or yearn for enlightenment, assuming it would instantly bring them wisdom, inner peace, and serenity. But instead, true spiritual growth is often delivered in challenging ways we never expected.
Increased spiritual growth often begins with life-altering events, unsettling discoveries, or distressing insights – such as realizing what has really been holding you back from attaining spiritual fulfilment. These learning curves can show up in many ways. For example, as an unexpected ending of a relationship, a health crisis, or the loss of a loved one.
Often, it shows up in the form of disruptive events that expose dysfunctional thought or behavior patterns that have been stifling your mental freedom, or a toxic mindset that has been hindering your ability to see clearly to break free from limiting beliefs and self-sabotage.
The term ‘spiritual enlightenment’ is used very loosely these days and has become a confusing concept to many people. The truth is that authentic spiritual enlightenment is actually not a very big deal. It is seldom the ‘fireworks display’ that our egos might want it to be.
Spiritual accomplishment is nothing to be prideful or boastful about. It is actually a very quiet process; inward and intimate. People who go through this process in an authentic way, report the experience as being a modest, intuitive alignment, rather than a dramatic breakthrough of profound elation.
Only once we have improved our intuitive alignment, are we subtly encouraged by spirit to not to stop there, but to muster up the courage to take further steps in our spiritual growth and evolution. We become increasingly self-aware and are able to assess what we may have done to contribute to the disappointments in our life, and how these dysfunctional patterns may have started.
Modern Misunderstanding Of The Occult
I recently had an interesting conversation with a casual acquaintance about spirituality and the occult. She is new to metaphysics and mysticism, but since these topics are of great interest and intrigue to me, I needed no convincing to dive into it with her.
It soon became obvious that she had some misunderstandings, and even a few misgivings regarding these matters. For example, she believes a ‘spiritual person’ is someone who engages in some form of religion or spiritual practice, such as meditation or prayer. She also believes spirituality is the exclusive domain of humans, as animals do not practice any religion or spirituality – they merely exist in nature.
Many people confuse ‘being religious’ with ‘being spiritual’ – one does not necessarily imply the other. Living a spiritually aware or conscious life simply means ‘living in the truth’ of who you are – a spirit being in human form. One can be religious, but it is not a prerequisite to living your true spiritual identity.
I also explained to her that the creatures of this earth may appear to be ‘soulless,’ but all living, sentient beings, as well as nature at large, are all expression of Spirit, God, Source, Universe, the Divine. How the animals operate and survive in this world is what is inherently true of the inner being of who they truly are. The entire universe is an expression of its sacred origins. In fact, in my opinion animals live with much greater alignment to higher consciousness than most modern humans do!
It took her some time to evaluate these concepts, but she did eventually come to a conclusion that there must be some truth to it. However, the real fun began when I mentioned my life-long interest in the occult. She vehemently protested that everything relating to the occult is “evil and demonic.” I asked her what facts or personal experience she based this opinion on, but her only justification was that this is “what most people believe.”
The Deeper Meaning Of Color Stereotypes
Have you ever heard the expression someone “talks a blue streak?” It refers to a person who talks rapidly and non-stop. But why use the adjective blue? I suspect it may originate from the metaphysical tradition of the color blue being associated with speaking one’s truth (throat chakra) and creative expression. People who gravitate towards this color are often creatives or performers, such as designers, fine artists, singers, dancers, and so on.
Communicating succinctly is the most powerful way we can make a connection with others beyond our subliminal energy connections with everyone around us. An over-abundance of words, however, translates into a lack of trust on the speaker’s part that she is not accepted by others, be it family members, coworkers, friends, or stranger she encounters along her life path. Speaking clearly and concisely is an art.
The color red also holds a fascination for me, as I perceive it to be a color that is so amazingly misunderstood. Red is generally interpreted as the color of anger, such as “I was so mad, I was seeing red.” Red is also used to denote danger in road signs and red cars are said to be associated with speed and aggressive driving.
But the color red also has many positive symbolic meanings in different cultures, including about passion, excitement, love, vigor, health, life and even spiritual zeal.
Another brilliant color that is often misrepresented is black. Once again, it is generally seen as a color related to depression, sadness, gloom, negativity and evil. In my view black stands out as a harmonious hue. If we see it in a positive light, black can be considered as a sharply defined, elegant color. It is symbolic of power, mystery, and sophistication. No one can deny the glamour of showing up to a dinner party in a smart little black dress or a tailored black tuxedo.
What Were You Thinking!
Looking back on your life, I’m sure you, like myself, have often questioned certain people you hung out with and wondered why you wasted so much time dating or hanging out with them; or you wonder why you told that certain person something very private, which later came back to bite you, because you discovered that your confidante was a back-stabber. They key after you learn such a life lesson, is not to repeat it. Fool me once, shame on you; fool me twice, shame on me.
The good news is that there is enlightenment to be had and reaped from ill decisions made in the past. You don’t have to keep rehashing it over and over in your head; you can say: “What was I thinking?” Be glad you have learned from it, because now you are free from to move forward.
So many people are not shifting forward, because they keep tripping up over bad choices from the past. For example, they may feel that they cannot date a certain type of person, because they had a bad experience dating someone like that in the past and now they don’t want to give love a chance. I believe love always hurts one way or another – whether it’s a healthy relationship or a bad romance. It’s all about learning how much of yourself to give.
I have heard so many say, “I wish I had the self-esteem I have now back then. I was young and I had the body, and I was in better shape.” Don’t have regrets. Be thankful you finally learned to love yourself enough to not worry about what you do, or don’t have now.
Enlightenment and self-knowledge comes with age, but some never pick up on what life lessons had been laid down for them. They keep repeating the same mistakes, and hence have to come back and do it all over in another lifetime.
Dancing In The Multiverse
A movie I recently watched gave new feels to my feelings. Viewing the new sci-fi action adventure Everything Everywhere All at Once was for me like an Olympic event! The film dances in the multiverse and feels like an acid trip fueled by bizarre scenarios from the most imaginative cinematic minds. And yet, it reveals so simply and clearly what’s fundamental about life.
Certain pre-destined events happen in our lives over which we have no control (fate), but there are also many things that happen to us that we absolutely do control through our free will decision-making process.
This movie portrays the power of our free will eloquently. Every choice the lead character, Evelynn (Michelle Yeoh), makesaffords her a different life in another universe.
Evelynn is a worn-out, disappointed immigrant who operates a laundromat with her highly dysfunctional family that includes: a grumpy, narrow-minded grandfather, a geeky but highly lovable husband (Ke Huy Quan), and a distant, rebellious daughter who desperately desires her mom’s support in coming out to her grandfather. On top of all that, the family faces financial ruin when they can’t pay their taxes.
Just when Evelynn’s world is about to entirely collapse, the multiverse steps in to transform her into an antihero of incredulous proportions. Who’d have ever thought that downtrodden Evelyn could be the one to save the multiverse from ruin!
When a way cooler, Kung Fu fighting husband from another universe enters the milk-toast body of her husband, and places the heavy mantle of saving the world on her shoulders, Evelyn’s response is that she’s nobody, nothing. She can’t be the hero of this mission. But Mr. Cool delightfully replies, “You’re capable of everything, because you’re so bad at everything!”
Your Personal Journey Into The Age Of Aquarius
We are in the midst of a monumental shift, a global awakening from the depths of our shared trials and tribulations. As we bid farewell to the Age of Pisces and embrace the dawn of the Age of Aquarius, a new worldview is unfolding before us.
Imagine a realm where consciousness evolves collectively, where spirituality transcends boundaries, and where we move as a unified force toward a brighter tomorrow. In this era of transition, as cosmic energies realign and ancient prophecies come to fruition, we are on the cusp of a renaissance of the soul.
The emergence of a new age beckons us to explore uncharted territories of consciousness and connection. Together, we are poised to embark on a journey of profound transformation and growth as we navigate this unprecedented juncture in our shared human experience.
Humanity has been evolving for thousands of years. Throughout recorded history, we’ve gained collective epigenetic wisdom in our cellular memory and the evolution of our DNA. This collective wisdom, or shared consciousness, has resulted in humanity’s greatest strengths and weakest shortcomings that are so evident today.
It is also now culminating in a global energetic transmutation and higher consciousness awakening that is gradually gaining momentum and will ultimately lead to our emergence from collective suffering. The Age of Pisces is ending and we are entering the new Age of Aquarius. The Age of Pisces was characterized by the energies of hierarchy, authority, patriarchy and dogmatic religion. In contrast, with the dawning of the Age of Aquarius, we are moving into a new era of enlightenment, unity and a more spiritually evolved global society. Humanity is throwing off the shackles of suffering, sadness and submission and stepping into the joys of assertiveness, empowerment and equality.
The Old Age of Pisces
The concept of the astrological ages of Pisces and Aquarius is rooted in ancient astrology, and each age lasts approximately 2,150 to 2,200 years, marking a period during which the vernal equinox passes through one of the twelve zodiacal signs.
The Age of Pisces is symbolized by the fish and is associated with themes of sacrifice, organized religion, and hierarchical structures. It has woven a profound tapestry of human experience, guiding us through the currents of sacrifice, suffering, and religiosity. Our collective consciousness has been shaped by the Piscean energies of this era, providing us with a lens through which to perceive adversity and transcendence.
The Age of Pisces has been a crucible for humanity, stirring the depths of our hearts and minds with the profound anguish that often accompanies spiritual growth. Through the veil of suffering, we have glimpsed the essence of our common humanity, fostering empathy and compassion that transcends individual struggles. The cosmic dance of Piscean energies has invited us to delve into the mysteries of existence, seeking solace in religious practices and communal bonds that bridge the chasms of pain and isolation.
As the Age of Pisces draws to a close, we stand on the threshold of a new dawn, witnessing the subtle yet powerful signals of a cosmic shift. The celestial symphony heralds the emergence of the Age of Aquarius, beckoning us into a realm of heightened consciousness and evolving social values. The fading echoes of Piscean sacrifice and spiritual formality pave the way for innovative new paradigms and transformative possibilities, leading us to a future filled with hope and enlightenment.
The New Age of Aquarius
As we bid farewell to the Age of Pisces, we usher in an era of conscious evolution, cosmic harmony and spiritual expansion. The Age of Aquarius heralds a new chapter in our collective journey toward enlightenment and oneness with the cosmos and the divine.
The Age of Aquarius is symbolized by the Water Bearer and associated with themes of innovation, enlightenment, and humanitarianism. It represents a shift away from hierarchical structures to more decentralized and egalitarian social models that emphasize equality and communal well-being. There will be an increasing emphasis on personal freedom, social justice and environmental awareness.
In the Age of Aquarius, we are called to embark on a journey of conscious evolution, both individually and collectively. This era encourages us to transcend our previous limitations, tap into higher states of consciousness, and explore the interconnectedness of all beings in the universe. As we align with the cosmic vibrations of Aquarius, we open ourselves to new possibilities for inner growth and spiritual enlightenment.
Technological advancement and intellectual progress will also be hallmarks of the Aquarian Age. One of the most exciting aspects of the Age of Aquarius is the harmonious relationship between technological advancement and spiritual development. In this new age, we have the opportunity to merge cutting-edge innovation with ancient wisdom, creating a synergy that can lead to profound positive change. By integrating technology with spirituality, we pave the way for a future in which progress serves not only material needs, but also the expansion of consciousness and the well-being of all.
The new Aquarian age will be characterized by certain key features:
Consciousness Expansion: Humanity will experience a collective expansion of consciousness, resulting in increased awareness, spiritual insight, and a deeper connection to universal truths.
Interconnectedness: Increased awareness of the interconnectedness of everyone and everything, and a shift toward a more unified and harmonious global consciousness. This includes a sense of oneness with nature, other sentient beings, and the cosmos. We will be united in our search for higher truths, deeper connections, and a more enlightened existence.
Nature Awareness: A focus on living in harmony with the natural world, recognizing the interconnectedness of all life forms, and promoting ecological awareness and sustainability.
Alternative Healing: The acceptance and promotion of alternative healing practices such as energy healing, crystal therapy, meditation, and other holistic approaches to wellness.
Higher Values: Humanity is moving away from materialism, consumerism, and self-centered pursuits toward values that prioritize spiritual well-being, compassion, and the collective good.
Egalitarian Values: More egalitarian and compassionate social structures with an emphasis on love, understanding, and cooperation as guiding principles.
Non-Traditional Spirituality: Openness to a wide range of spiritual beliefs and practices, drawing inspiration from diverse religious and mystical traditions, as well as esoteric and occult teachings.
Collective Illumination: A new era characterized by global spiritual enlightenment, higher wisdom, and freedom from the perceived limitations and conflicts of the past.
Individual Enlightenment: Emphasis on personal and individual spiritual growth, with more people undertaking transformational journeys, exploring alternative spiritual practices, and adopting holistic lifestyles. The Age of Aquarius offers us the opportunity to redefine our relationship with ourselves, with each other, and with the universe as a whole.
Timing Of The Transition
All of the above seems really great! But there is one small problem: no one knows for sure when exactly the Age of Pisces will end and when exactly the new Age of Aquarius will be in full swing. According to many astrologers and psychics, we are already transitioning from the Age of Pisces to the Age of Aquarius, but the exact timing of this transition is not universally agreed upon. The timing of the transition cannot be precisely defined, and opinions vary as to when and how quickly this shift will occur.
In astrological terms, the Age of Aquarius is based on the astronomical precession of the equinoxes, which is a gradual and continuous shift in the Earth’s axial rotation. Essentially, the Earth’s axis undergoes a slow, cyclical wobble over a period of about 26,000 years. During this precessional cycle, the apparent position of the vernal equinox (the point at which the Sun crosses the celestial equator from south to north) slowly shifts along the ecliptic, the apparent path of the Sun across the sky. The ecliptic is divided into twelve constellations, each corresponding to about 30 degrees of celestial longitude.
Currently, the vernal equinox is still in the zodiacal sign of Pisces, based on the tropical zodiac commonly used in Western astrology. However, due to the precession of the equinoxes, the vernal equinox is gradually moving from Pisces to Aquarius, which it will not fully reach until around the year 2600 A.D., which is approximately 576 years in the future (from the year 2024) based on the Gregorian calendar.
Astrologers however do not agree on the timing and therefore place the Age of Aquarius anywhere between the 20th and 22nd centuries. Some suggest that it began as early as 2012, while others believe that the Age of Aquarius is yet to arrive. Many view it not as a specific date, but instead a gradual shift. They see its influence as growing over time rather than a sudden transition. Even within specific methodologies, there is disagreement about the exact date. Moreover, the dates themselves only mark the astrological shift; the real-world changes associated with the age may not always align perfectly. The exact date or timing of the transition remains open to interpretation.
Embracing The Aquarian Frequency
The good news is that we do not have to wait decades or even centuries for the energies of the new age to unfold in our lives. We can begin now to work on our own auric energy vibration to get to that frequency personally sooner. I imagine that this personal spiritual journey is like a merge sign for a highway on-ramp. You have to merge gradually in the right direction; you cannot just flip your car off the bridge and onto a new path!
This gradual transcendental merging can be achieved through various lifestyle strategies and spiritual practices. Here are some you can explore to help you raise your energy vibration and embrace the dawning of the new Age of Aquarius:
SELF-AWARENESS
Engage in practices that promote personal growth, self-awareness, introspection, and self-discovery, such as meditation, mindfulness, or journaling. Reflect on your beliefs, values, and purpose in life, seeking alignment with higher ideals and discovering your true essence.
Practice mindfulness in your daily activities, bringing awareness to each moment to connect with the higher frequencies of the new age. Cultivate a positive attitude and focus on gratitude to foster a more harmonious and positive inner environment. Be open to new experiences and perspectives, embracing the fluidity of life and growth.
MIND-BODY WELLNESS
Embrace holistic approaches to health, including physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Consider practices such as yoga, tai chi, or energy healing for overall balance. Incorporate mind-body practices such as breath work and mindfulness to cultivate inner peace and mental clarity. Explore energy-based practices such as Reiki or Qi Gong to enhance your spiritual energy.
ESOTERIC EXPLORATION
Explore different spiritual traditions, philosophies, and practices to find those that resonate best with you. Listen to podcasts, read books, and attend workshops, seminars, or study groups that explore various metaphysical and esoteric topics.
INTUITIVE DEVELOPMENT
Develop and trust your intuition by exploring practices such as divination and dreamwork. Pay attention to synchronicities and signs that may be guiding you on your spiritual journey. Trust your inner guidance to navigate your spiritual path with clarity and purpose.
Get psychic readings from time to time from reputable counselors to validate what Spirit is telling you every step of the way, and to tame those “wiggly squiggles” in your mind – those unfounded fears about why something cannot or will not happen; those self-limiting doubts that keep us stuck.
NATURE CONNECTION
Cultivate a deeper connection with nature by recognizing the interconnectedness of all living things. Spend more time outdoors, practice eco-friendly habits, and support environmental causes. Reconnect with the natural world to ground yourself and tap into the healing energies of the earth.
Cultivate a sustainable and nature-friendly mindset and lifestyle by adopting practices and attitudes that prioritize the well-being of the Earth and its ecosystems. Begin by educating yourself about environmental issues, such as climate change, pollution, and biodiversity loss. Stay informed about the impact of human activities on the planet and support sustainable and eco-friendly products and businesses. Advocate for policies and practices that promote sustainability at local, national, and global levels and use your voice to raise awareness.
CREATIVE EXPRESSION
Express yourself creatively through art, music, writing, or other forms of self-expression. Use your creativity as a means of connecting with your higher self. Engaging in creative activities induces a state of flow, where you lose a sense of suffering and ego. The immersive artistic experience leads to moments of heightened spiritual connection, allowing you to access a higher state of consciousness.
Artistic creations, including visual art, music, and poetry, also carry energetic frequencies. When you engage with or create high-vibrational art, you increasingly resonate with those frequencies, positively influencing your own energy.
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
Engage in acts of kindness, activism, and service to others to foster a sense of compassion and interconnectedness and to promote healing and positive change in the world. Volunteer or contribute to causes that align with your values.
Extend compassion and empathy to others. Embrace the richness of diverse perspectives and cultures within our global community and honor the interconnected tapestry of humanity. Join or create discussion groups to share insights and experiences.
Connect with like-minded people through spiritual or metaphysical communities. Harness the power of collective energy by participating in group meditations for healing and transformation.
Embracing The Ascension Journey
Remember that personal spiritual journeys are highly individual and these suggestions are intended only as general guidance. It’s important to explore and integrate practices that resonate with your personal beliefs and contribute positively to your own growth and well-being. However, being open to learning, adapting and evolving on your spiritual path is also a key aspect of the Aquarian journey.
Of course, we will still be present with some of the old fears, suffering, neuroses, and limiting beliefs that continue to echo in the Piscean Age, but nothing prevents us from embarking on a more self-empowering New Age journey into the Aquarian future.
Pisces is the sign of intuition, magic and the underdog. What better sign to emerge from than the last sign of the zodiac! We have received much wisdom from our ancestors. Now we are ready to move forward together to manifest new blessings and a more enlightened future for humanity. We will create new innovations, exceed expectations and surprise ourselves.
The keyword phrase traditionally associated with the zodiac sign Pisces is “I believe.” In astrological terms, each zodiac sign is linked to a specific phrase that encapsulates its characteristic qualities. “I believe” reflects Pisces’ association with intuition, spirituality, and a strong connection to the unseen realms. As our crown chakra opens more fully, we will naturally let go of our need to ask so many questions about our collective future. We will simply know. In astrological terms, the two-word phrase associated with the sign of Aquarius is “I know.” It reflects Aquarius’ association with intellectual pursuits, innovation, and a strong sense of individuality and knowledge.
The Age of Pisces has sculpted our souls with its ethereal touch, preparing us for the wondrous odyssey that awaits us in the luminous realms of the Age of Aquarius. Let us navigate this celestial dance with open hearts and awakened spirits, embracing the mysteries of the universe with courage and grace.
May healing energies abound for all of us as we move forward into a new age. We are truly in the darkest hour before the dawn. Let us step into this new era with optimism, hope and willingness, for the Universe is now calling us to co-create a brighter, more enlightened future.