This article appeared in the Maui
Vision Magazine
Aug/Sept issue 2004 issue
It’s
no secret that in the celestial pantheon Saturn is the dreaded Lord
of Karma – deliverer of life’s hardest lessons. The
title is not without justification. Difficult periods in our lives
can often be traced to Saturn’s influence in our astrology
chart. However, what really makes a situation difficult? In one
word: preferences. Seng-t`san, the third Zen patriarch, explained
it clearly when he said, “The Great Way is not difficult for
those who have no preferences.” When we’re able to widen
the range of what is acceptable we suffer less. This is where Saturn
steps in. By delivering painful circumstances, like a loss of some
kind, we’re forced to face our attachments and release them.
We soul search and open up to new possibilities. I like to think
of Saturn as a force of deliverance. We often need breakdowns in
order to experience breakthroughs. This is Saturn’s gift.
His planetary rings, suggesting limitation, are deceptive. Saturn
is actually the “lord of the rings” and ultimately teaches
us how we can experience freedom through wise detachment.
It’s
interesting that in July the Cassini spacecraft made history by
reaching the rings of Saturn where it will stay within the enormous
planet’s orbit for four years. We’re getting a whole
new look at Saturn from the inside with stunning, never-been-seen
photographs. Since our external world reflects our internal world
this could represent an opportunity to collectively face our limiting,
fear-based patterns. It’s another sign, perhaps like the Venus
transit in June, that it’s time to raise our vibration by
living more responsibly and harmoniously. I like to think so anyway.
It’s my preference.
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