MARCH 2025 BLOG
The name of March comes from Martius,
the first month of the earliest Roman calendar. It was named after Mars, the
Roman god of war, and an ancestor of the Roman people through his sons Romulus
and Remus. This month - Martius was the beginning of the season for warfare,
and others mirrored the festivals held in his honor. During the month of October, when the season for these activities ended, Martius remained the first
month of the Roman calendar year perhaps as late as 153 BC, and several
religious observances in the first half of the month were originally New Year's
celebrations. Even in late antiquity, Roman mosaics picturing the months
sometimes still placed March first. In the northern parts of the world, March
is the month that announces the coming out of winter darkness and rituals were common
to bring light like building fireplaces on the land to announce that from darkness
comes the light.
The Wisdom Within Darkness
Darkness is often feared and misunderstood,
associated with negativity, danger, and the unknown. However, darkness is not
inherently bad; it is a space of transformation, introspection, and hidden
wisdom. Just as the night sky holds stars and the depths of the ocean conceal
vibrant life, darkness contains light and insight that can lead to growth and
understanding.
In many philosophical and spiritual traditions,
darkness symbolizes the journey inward—a time for reflection and
self-discovery. When we embrace darkness, whether in the form of challenges,
solitude, or uncertainty, we often uncover truths about ourselves and the
world. For instance, in difficult times, people develop resilience, empathy,
and wisdom that they might not have gained in perpetual comfort. Darkness, in
this sense, is a teacher, guiding us toward deeper knowledge and inner light.
Moreover, light and darkness are not opposites but partners in balance. Just as the dawn follows the night, insight emerges from the struggle. The yin-yang philosophy illustrates this duality, showing that within darkness, there is always a spark of light. Without contrast, we would not appreciate brightness, joy, or clarity. Even in nature, seeds must first be buried in the dark earth before they can grow toward the sun.
Ultimately, darkness is not something to be feared but embraced as part of the human experience. It is within the unknown that creativity, resilience, and wisdom flourish. By recognizing the light hidden within the shadows, we can transform fear into understanding and challenges into opportunities for growth. At this time, when politics and wars are dividing and destroying places like Ukraine, we need experienced Elders to guide our youth.
Wisdom, Not Just Knowledge: Guiding the Young
Elders play a crucial role in shaping the lives
of young people, but their greatest gift is not simply knowledge—it is wisdom.
While knowledge consists of facts, skills, and information, wisdom is the
deeper understanding of life gained through experience, reflection, and
insight. Young people today have access to vast amounts of knowledge through
technology, but they truly need wisdom from elders to navigate life's
complexities.
Wisdom allows elders to offer guidance that
goes beyond mere instructions. It helps them teach young people about patience,
resilience, and the importance of values. For example, an elder may not just
tell a young person how to achieve success but also teach them the importance
of integrity, balance, and purpose. Wisdom also enables elders to listen,
understand emotions, and provide meaningful support rather than just giving
directives.
Moreover, wisdom helps elders adapt their
teachings to the unique struggles of each generation. The world is constantly
changing, and young people face challenges different from those of the past.
Instead of simply passing down old ways of thinking, wise elders use their
experiences to offer relevant insights, helping young people apply timeless
lessons in a modern context.
Ultimately, young people do not just need
answers—they need perspective, encouragement, and a deeper understanding of
life. Elders who lead with wisdom rather than just knowledge can inspire and
empower the next generation to make thoughtful choices and build meaningful
lives.
SOULCRAFT
The Power of the Soul: Strength and Guidance in
Life
The concept of the soul has long been a source
of strength and guidance for people seeking purpose, resilience, and inner
peace. While physical and intellectual abilities have limits, the soul
represents a deeper, limitless source of wisdom and strength that can help
individuals navigate life’s challenges. Recognizing and connecting with the
soul allows people to find meaning, make ethical decisions, and develop an
unshakable inner foundation.
The soul is often associated with one’s true
essence—the part of a person that is not defined by external circumstances but
by inner values, purpose, and connection to something greater. When people feel
lost or overwhelmed, turning inward to their soul can provide clarity and
direction. For instance, during hardship, the soul reminds individuals of their
deeper purpose, allowing them to endure difficulties with grace and resilience.
Additionally, the soul fosters a sense of inner peace and self-trust. In a
world full of distractions and pressures, people often seek validation from
external sources. However, by listening to the soul’s quiet wisdom, individuals
can find guidance from within rather than relying solely on societal
expectations or fleeting trends. This inner guidance helps people make choices
aligned with their true values, leading to a more fulfilling and authentic
life.
Moreover, the soul connects individuals to
others and a higher purpose. Many spiritual traditions emphasize that the soul
is not just personal but also linked to a greater universal energy. This
understanding fosters compassion, empathy, and a sense of belonging, giving
people the strength to support others and find meaning beyond personal
struggles.
In essence, embracing the concept of the soul
empowers people to draw strength from within, make wise choices, and live with
greater purpose. It serves as a guide through life’s uncertainties, offering
resilience, peace, and a profound sense of direction.
Dear reader, welcome to make your comments, please.
Yaro Starak
