The year has four turning points representing four different changes of direction and focus in the human path.
We have just finished the summer with its out-going warm energy manifesting into nature.

Approaching winter and the most introverted time, we now are at the meeting point, the autumnal equinox.
Standing here between light and darkness we can prepare for the darker and colder times.
This is the time of the celebration of the archangel Michael, Mikaeli, St Michaels.

Michael is a Hebrew name meaning Like God or The like of God, Gods simillimum, and analogy to God. In Kabbalah Michael is related to Tipheret the sphere of the Sun and the cultivation of virtues.

It is through the challenges of ”dark times” that we become strong and full of virtue. It is by aspiring to become ”like God” that we cultivate virtues.

Entering the dark season, this is a time to be vigilant like St. Michael or St. George. It is a time to challenge the dragon or animal within. The animal represents the unaware or undeveloped part of our awareness, the unconscious realm of darkness. Ask yourself what you need to confront, what you are afraid of or avoiding? Within that “mud” there is a radiant gemstone.

It is time to find the strength, the internal sword so we can approach the weakness with courage, with love and with light. Remember the pain of the soul is the soul growing.  One day you will crack open with your own light, love and life manifesting your virtues.