The Sun

Since the dawn of time, humans have been fascinated by the sun.
Radiating power from the sky, our star Sol is a creative force that
is unparalleled. Its brilliant rays illuminate the seasons, give
heat, imbue all living beings with vital life force energy, and
banish the dangers that only come out in the dark. Sol is a
sparkling though mysterious jewel and has been given many names by
many cultures: Arinna in Mesopotamia, Yhi in Australia, Ra in Egypt,
and Apollo in Greece. Our lives are, to a large extent, driven by
the brilliant illumination of the sun. The sun drives the cycles of
our days and seasons while providing us with a framework we can use
for running our lives. The reappearance of the sun after a long
stretch of night has the power to inspire us when we awaken at dawn
to watch a slow sunrise. Likewise, Sol can be a powerful symbol of
hope, elation, joy, growth, and creativity. The sun has much to
teach us. Early astronomers saw the sun's constancy as a signifier
of its great strength, courage, and power. Its illumination and
steady flow of energy is there whether or not we are able to see it.
The sun is the great and unselfish giver, rising into the sky at the
start of each day to energize us, bathe us in radiance, and provide
us with innumerable blessings. A simple, sun-centered ritual can
help you harness this loving energy. Awaken before dawn and go
outdoors to watch the sun's ascent. As it rises into view, close
your eyes, bask! in its light, and imagine your soul ascending
alongside it. Feel yourself grow as you absorb the sun's energy.
Your body will tell you when you have taken in enough. Express your
appreciation for all the sun gives to the world. The sun's nurturing
heat is there to warm you and allow you to flourish. Its energy
nourishes the food you eat, while its light allows you to see the
beauty in the world. The sun represents internal balance and burns
with controlled power. Without the sun's golden light, the spirit
suffers. When we take time to bask in the sun, our spirit soars.



We Are All Mirrors For Each Other When we look at other people, we
see many of their qualities in innumerable and seemingly random
combinations. However, the qualities that we see in the people
around us are directly related to the traits that exist in us. "Like
attracts like" is one of the spiritual laws of the universe. We
attract individuals into our lives that mirror who we are. Those you
feel drawn to reflect your inner self back at you, and you act as a
mirror for them. Simply put, when you look at others, you will
likely see what exists in you. When you see beauty, divinity,
sweetness, or light in the soul of another, you are seeing the
goodness that resides in your soul. When you see traits in others
that evoke feelings of anger, annoyance, or hatred, you may be
seeing reflected back at you those parts of yourself that you have
disowned or do not like. Because we are all mirrors for each other,
looking at the people in your life can tell you a lot about
yourself. Who you are can be laid bare to you through what you see
in others. It is easy to see the traits you do not like in others.
It is much more difficult to realize that you possess those same
traits. Often, the habits, attitudes, and behaviors of others are
closely linked to our unconscious and unresolved issues. When you
come into contact with someone you admire, search your soul for
similarly admirable traits. Likewise, when you meet someone
exhibiting traits that you dislike, accept that you are looking at
your reflection. Looking at yourself through your perception of
others can be a humbling and eye-opening experience. You can also
cultivate in you the traits and behaviors that you do like. Be
loving and respectful to all people, and you will attract
individuals that will love and respect you back. Nurture compassion
and empathy and let the goodness you see in others be your mirror.