Self-Instruction (Self-Initiation)

"Poor is the pupil who does not surpass his master."
- Leonardo da Vinci

"Self-Instruction is the first step toward Wisdom."
- Joseph Panek

Self-Instruction is the Self-Initiation of oneself. Therefore, by its
very nature, Self-Instruction is the first step toward Wisdom.

When we voluntarily take on the responsibility of Instructing
ourselves we willingly journey into the realm of individuality and
imagination; we embark upon an Adventure which transports us
into the Sovereign domain of Wizards and Wanderers.

Self-Instruction is taking the very basic education we receive during
our years of formal education and using it as a building block, a
stepping stone, to ascend to the higher realms of knowledge, and
ultimately, Wisdom.

Self-Instruction is researching, experimenting, and discovering for
ourselves the Truths, knowledge, and Wisdom which are Veiled
from our view by the constructs, restrictions, and limitations of
society, organized education, and self-serving factions.

While the majority of people obtain degrees and certificates for the
sole purpose of settling into the everyday "grind" of mundane life,
the Self-Instructed individual Chooses to proceed further, most
often alone, in the pursuit of higher knowledge, shrouded Wisdom
and the mysterious secrets of nature.

Self-Instructed individuals understand that neither a teacher nor
an institution can teach beyond their level of knowledge. These
Lone Wolfs realize that although we do gain a level of education,
insight, and knowledge from our teachers and institutions, they are
not the final word on any subject they teach.

For if they were the final word, no new ideas would ever come into
fruition: new ideas which eventually manifest themselves as
inventions, improvements and philosophical concepts which permit
society to evolve.

The Self-Instructed individual also realizes that he or she is
solely responsible for, and are the only ones who have control of,
the Journey they experience during their current Incarnation.
Self-Instructed Initiates, Seekers, and Wizards and Wanderers
live by a simple Creed:

The fact that we may have been either mis-educated, incompletely
educated, or mis-guided does not release us from any Karmic
Debts or Consequences that may result from any of these factors.
In the end, it is always our sole responsibility to properly educate
and instruct ourselves;
It is also vitally important for us to understand who we truly are
and to learn those things which are Harmonious with our Divine
Nature;
It is our birthright to discover the magical and mystical workings
of the universe: to delve into the realm of Truth and Wisdom and
not simply rely upon what others expect us to believe and accept
as true;
The universe, and everything within it, is one big and simple set
of Truths which continually reveal and re-Cycle themselves
throughout eternity. It is by our failure to understand and
recognize these simple Truths...to live in denial, Ignorance, and
complacency...that we invite oft-repeated and self-imposed
calamities into our lives.

In the end, we must realize that we would never have the timeless
gifts of such immortals as Einstein, Newton, da Vinci, Pythagoras,
and many others, had they not chosen the magical and visionary
Path of Self-Instruction. To put Self-Instruction into modern terms:
it is truly the only way to "think outside the box".

Comments and Emails: I welcome comments and emails from
people with similar thoughts and feelings. My email address is
located in the upper-left area of this page. Comments can be
posted by using the "Comment" link located below each article.
Also: If you found value in this article please feel free to forward
it to other like-minded individuals, organizations and sites.

Disclaimer: None of my articles should be considered to be
either advice or expertise. They are simply personal opinions
and no more. Everyone is encouraged to seek competent
advice from a licensed, registered, or certified professional
should such advice or service be required.

© copyright Joseph Panek 2010

The Unicorn - As A Symbol

"Dreams are the playground of Unicorns."
- Unknown

Perhaps the most wondrous of all mystical creatures, the Unicorn
is a Symbol of magic, miracles, purity, innocence and enchantment.
This magical and enchanting animal appears to only a rare few and
has the ability to bestow magic, miracles and Wisdom to those who
are pure of heart and virtuous in their deeds.

The presence of a Unicorn is announced by the soft and faint
tinkling sound of tiny bells being shaken; or of tiny chimes being
rustled by a breeze. And as Bells and Chimes Symbolize the
presence of Divinity, the tinkling sound which accompanies the
nearness of a Unicorn reminds us that we are in the presence of
a highly spiritual essence whose boundless domain encompasses
all realms matter and spirit.

To kill a Unicorn is to destroy a Divine Incarnation of purity,
perfection, and wonder. It is a deed which burdens the individual who
commits the Act with an enormous Karmic debt.

The Unicorn is depicted as a white horse which has a long, straight,
spiral-shaped Horn protruding from the top of its head.

There are three basic Symbols contained in the Unicorn: the color
white, the horse, and the Horn:

The Horse is a Symbol of Travel and movement. And as the Unicorn
is a spiritual horse it has the ability to Travel and appear wherever,
and whenever, it wishes; it has the ability to appear throughout all
realms and dimensions.

White is the color of innocence, purity and perfection. White, which
is Symbolically similar to silver, represents the lunar, feminine
aspects of receptivity, instinct, intuition and virginity. Virginity in
its truest metaphysical and alchemical aspect represents the
unadulterated (untainted) mind and spirit; it is the prima materia
(pure matter) and the prisca sapientia (pristine knowledge, or
Wisdom). It is for this reason that to have a Unicorn appear to us
is both a great honor and Divine Gift. For, as stated before, only the
pure of heart and virtuous of deed are deserving to have a Unicorn
appear to them.

The Unicorn, unlike all other horned animals save perhaps the
rhinoceros, is a single-horned creature. While the two-horned
animals are linked, Symbolically, to the realm of duality and matter,
the Unicorn's single horn reminds us that its domain is the realm
of Unity; a realm that Transcends and exists beyond the bounds
of matter and duality.

The single, spiralled Horn is a Symbol of the endless, repeating
Cycles of Time. It is also Symbolic of the Sword. And as the Sword
Symbolizes the mind, the Unicorn's Horn also signifies Unity of
Thought and purity of reason. We also notice that this single Horn
protrudes from the top of the Unicorn's head which is the location
of the crown chakra. The crown chakra is a Border Between Realms;
it represents the highest level which our mind can attain and is the
Spiritual Gateway to the higher realms of Spirituality and Divine
Consciousness.

When depicted within a forest, the Unicorn represents purity and
enchantment amidst growth, birth, rebirth, renewal and fertility;
which are all feminine essences.

When a Unicorn is portrayed along with a lion it Symbolizes the
Union of the feminine (white, lunar) and masculine (Gold, solar)
aspects of our dual nature. This Symbolism also represents the
Alchemical Marriage.

In Chinese tradition the Unicorn is an "auspicious and perfect
spiritual beast which appears when sages are born". ***

As we can see, the Symbolism of the Unicorn is deep, pure, and
magical. And as very few individuals are pure and virtuous enough
to have a Unicorn appear to them we should feel very Blessed
should a Unicorn someday appear along our Path.

(See also: "The Phoenix", and
                   "The Alchemical Marriage and the Total Solar Eclipse")

*** "The Lost Language Of Symbolism", Harold Bayley

Comments and Emails: I welcome comments and emails from
people with similar thoughts and feelings. My email address is
located in the upper-left area of this page. Comments can be
posted by using the "Comment" link located below each article.
Also: If you found value in this article please feel free to forward
it to other like-minded individuals, organizations and sites.

Disclaimer: None of my articles should be considered to be
either advice or expertise. They are simply personal opinions
and no more. Everyone is encouraged to seek competent
advice from a licensed, registered, or certified professional
should such advice or service be required.

© copyright Joseph Panek 2010

Time

"Time and tide wait for no man."
-Geoffrey Chaucer

What is this thing called Time? We set our watches by it. We make
plans and appointments based upon it. We also look forward to
holidays, anniversaries, festivities and birthdays based upon it.
But have we ever stopped to consider the meaning and reality of
this cosmic Drumbeat we call "Time"?

In its most Simple and brief description Time is a measurement of
movement. To be more precise, Time is the movement of one object,
or Event, in relationship to another.

Time is both cyclical (infinite) and linear (finite). This cyclical and
linear concept of Time is represented, Symbolically, by the horn
of the Unicorn. The Unicorn's horn is a straight (linear) Symbolic
bone protruding from the top of the Unicorn's head - or Crown
Chakra.

And, although straight and finite, the Unicorn's horn consists of a
spiral design which begins at the crown of the Unicorn's head and
eventually fades into Infinity at the uppermost tip of the horn. This
straight and spiralled horn of the Unicorn Symbolizes both the
cyclical and linear nature of Time.

Cyclical Time is the continuous repetition of the endless Cycles of
Eternity. It consists of the seasons, tides, sunrises, days, months,
years, ages and eons which are encompassed within Eternity.
Cyclical Time is the often repeating and unending Cycles which
govern not only our visible, physical universe but also the invisible,
spiritual realms which are unfamiliar to us. Cycles, which are
Symbolized by Circles and Spirals, are the Eternal timepieces which
are part of Divinity's Grand Design.

Linear Time, on the other hand, represents the finite and temporary.
Just as a line must have a beginning and an end, so must linear
Time have its beginning and end. Each day must come to an end.
Each year must come to its close. Civilizations, dynasties,
kingdoms, eras, joys, sufferings, festivities, Relationships, material
gains and physical life are all a part of linear Time. Therefore,
because they are finite in nature, they must all experience their own
particular beginning and end. In addition, linear Time also contains
the Consequences, or results, of previous Actions and Events
initiated by ourselves and by others.

Linear Time exists within Cyclical Time. While the Cycles of Eternity
are enduring and infinite, the Events which occur within these Cycles
are limited and temporary. And although today's day has the same
24-hours as yesterday's day had, it is not the same 24-hours.
Today's day is a finite, temporary Event occurring within one of
Divinity's numerous and overlapping Eternal Cycles.

This is why the same sunrise which greeted our ancient ancestors
many ages ago is not the same sunrise which greets us today.
Yes, it is the same Sun. Yes, it is still rising in the East. However
this same Sun which is still rising in the East is now performing its
daily, finite function within a new rhythmic Cycle.

Therefore, although we can "put things off until tomorrow", or even
"look forward to tomorrow", tomorrow will not be the same day as
today. For tomorrow truly is "a brand new day!"

Comments and Emails: I welcome comments and emails from
people with similar thoughts and feelings. My email address is
located in the upper-left area of this page. Comments can be
posted by using the "Comment" link located below each article.
Also: If you found value in this article please feel free to forward
it to other like-minded individuals, organizations and sites.

Disclaimer: None of my articles should be considered to be
either advice or expertise. They are simply personal opinions
and no more. Everyone is encouraged to seek competent
advice from a licensed, registered, or certified professional
should such advice or service be required.

© copyright Joseph Panek 2010

Rituals And Ceremonies (Their Symbolic Importance)

A Ritual or Ceremony is a celebration, a jubilee, a tradition. Through
these rites we re-live, re-enact, honor, Remember, and call forth
ancient Events, spiritual teachings, Divine Essences, and heroic tales.
Rituals and Ceremonies are also performed in order to "set a mood".

We can participate in Rituals and Ceremonies as either a part of a
group, or in a private and personal setting.

And although modern day Rituals and Ceremonies have been
reduced to merely Symbolic and festive group gatherings they are,
in fact, no less powerful now than when they were performed by our
ancient ancestors. In our modern world we have simply lost focus
of the true purpose and meaning of these very ancient traditions.

Even today indigenous cultures throughout the world participate in
Rituals and Ceremonies with the same respect and awe as did their
forefathers and ancestors.

For example, prior to going on a hunt for food, certain indigenous
cultures will draw a picture, usually upon a mound, of the animal
they are about to hunt and then devote their entire night praying
over the image, honoring it, and thanking it for the sacrifice it is
about to make for the benefit of the tribe or community.

The purposes of establishing, performing, and participating in
Rituals and Ceremonies are threefold.

1. To Remember and re-introduce us to the spirits, ancestors,
Lessons, and heroes which are part of our cultural and spiritual
heritage;

2. To set a solemn mood by way of performing these rites in a
location which is Harmonious with the Ritual or Ceremony which
is being enacted;

3. To then Instill that solemn mood within us so that we can access
our Inner Being...Our Subconscious...our Atman, in order to
manifest whatever it is that is important to us in our Current
Incarnation.

First: When we recall the spirits, ancestors, Lessons, and heroes of
our distant past we are reminded of the Divine Essences which they
represent. They represent the teachings, Wisdom, deeds, and
achievements which are at the core of the spiritual philosophy of our
particular culture. In fact, they are the teachings, Wisdom, deeds,
and achievements which have been, and still are, at the core of all
cultures ever since the most remote beginnings of the most
long-forgotten ages of mankind.

These spirits, ancestors, Lessons, and heroes are the inspirations
which elevate our Thoughts and feelings to the bliss, ecstasy, and
peace of the higher spiritual realms.

Second: As the purpose of Rituals and Ceremonies is to set a
solemn mood, they are performed in specially selected locations
which are Harmonious with inner tranquility and spiritual peace.
This is of particular importance regardless of whether these rites
are performed for group participation, or in private by ourselves.

Third: The performance of a Ritual or Ceremony slowly instills
within us a sacred and pensive mood through which we can then
access our spiritual nature, our Atman, and become intimate with
Divinity.

This feeling, this bonding with Divinity, is similar to a very deep
meditative state which puts us "in touch" with not only the
creative powers of our own Subconscious, but also the creative
powers of the Infinite and Divine Consciousness: powers which
can manifest Thought into reality.

When we enter this solemn, spiritual mood we are temporarily free
of all contradictory and disturbing Thoughts which can hinder us
from manifesting into our lives the object, or intention, of our desire.

While still in this solemn, sacred, and creative mood it is then
necessary for us to also act, through either Words or Action, upon
that object, lifestyle, or essence which we wish to manifest into our
lives.

Action, the invisible third element of creation, is the Rajas referred
to in ancient Sanskrit teachings. Without Action (Rajas), mood and
intention by themselves can not manifest whatever it is that we
desire.

When we look at Rituals, Ceremonies, and Creation in this manner
it is easy for us to understand why we often leave religious masses,
Rituals, and Ceremonies with an empty feeling.

To spiritually participate in a Ceremony, have our mood set by the
power of the Ritual, but failing to act while in the Spiritual Mood
instilled within us, is to waste the power of that Ritual or Ceremony.

All creation consists of, and is Symbolized by, the Trinity. Thoughts,
plans, and ideas can only be brought into manifestation by way of
Action (Rajas), which is the Third and final aspect of both Trinity
and Creation. (See: "The Three Gunas")

With this in mind, let us remember this Divine Truth the next time
we either participate in, or create, a Ritual or Ceremony. Upon
having our mood set by a solemn Ritual or Ceremony let us remind
ourselves that this is the most powerful and dynamic moment for us
to attempt to manifest, through Harmonious Words or Action,
whatever we feel is most important to us in our Current Incarnation.

Comments and Emails: I welcome comments and emails from
people with similar thoughts and feelings. My email address is
located in the upper-left area of this page. Comments can be
posted by using the "Comment" link located below each article.
Also: If you found value in this article please feel free to forward
it to other like-minded individuals, organizations and sites.

Disclaimer: None of my articles should be considered to be
either advice or expertise. They are simply personal opinions
and no more. Everyone is encouraged to seek competent
advice from a licensed, registered, or certified professional
should such advice or service be required.

© copyright Joseph Panek 2010

Wizards and Wanderers - As Symbols

"Not all those who wander are lost."
- "The Hobbit", J.R.R. Tolkien

Throughout Time and within the fables and mythologies of all
cultures we hear of Wizards and Wanderers who roam free and
occasionally assist a worthy soul in pursuing and accomplishing
a noble Quest.

Wizards and Wanderers are cast from a rare and special mold.
They are the true individuals who cannot "settle down" to the
conformities and dictates of society. These individuals remain
eternally free of the restrictions and demands which society
imposes upon its unwary and all-to-compliant subjects.

Wizards and Wanderers smirk at the folly of being imprisoned in
Towers of Self-Imposed Limitations and instead Choose to roam
and Travel wherever they wish - or to wherever they are currently
needed. They are the Seekers of Truth and Wisdom and are
constantly pursuing new Adventures and new Horizons.

Wizards and Wanderers are open-minded and are continuously
acquiring new knowledge, new skills, new understandings, and new
magic. And it is because of these acquired talents and abilities that
they are able to form strong bonds and extraordinary friendships
with like-minded individuals, mystical beings, and the Elemental
Entities of Nature.

Wizards and Wanderers are the Independent Thinkers, dreamers,
and doers who are labeled as Non-Conformists and rebels by the
mundane masses; labels and badges which they gladly accept,
and wear, with a self-comforting pride.

Wizards and Wanderers are very comfortable with their Chosen
life style. They are able to live on their wits and they savor their
ability to do so. These true individuals bear the scars of their Travels
proudly; scars acquired during their many tests and journeys while
in far-away places, less-Traveled environments, and unusual realms;
scars of growth and Adventure.

Wizards and Wanderers understand that they are "in this world but
not of it". They find comfort in knowing that their Quest is noble
and their vision remains forever focused upon the Higher Cause.
Perhaps this is why so many of us secretly desire to share an
Adventure with one of these truly free-spirits and eventually
Become a part of their very limited, very unique, and very
legendary order.

Comments and Emails: I welcome comments and emails from
people with similar thoughts and feelings. My email address is
located in the upper-left area of this page. Comments can be
posted by using the "Comment" link located below each article.
Also: If you found value in this article please feel free to forward
it to other like-minded individuals, organizations and sites.

Disclaimer: None of my articles should be considered to be
either advice or expertise. They are simply personal opinions
and no more. Everyone is encouraged to seek competent
advice from a licensed, registered, or certified professional
should such advice or service be required.

© copyright Joseph Panek 2010

The Tower - As A Symbol

While the Tower is similar in appearance to the Lighthouse, its
Symbolism is quite different. For while the Lighthouse Symbolizes
a beacon which guides us, the Tower Symbolizes a strong
structure which restricts our movements, limits our Horizons and
confines us to a specific physical and mental location. The Tower
Symbolizes all of the Self-Imposed Limitations we construct around,
and within, ourselves.

In the physical realm, the Tower Symbolizes all of the material
possessions we slowly accumulate which must now be guarded,
protected and worried about; possessions which limit our
movements, burden us with "responsibility" and imprison us in
a chamber of social conformity.

And although we are fully entitled to accumulate all of the material
possessions we desire, too often we find ourselves being the lone
sentry who must constantly stand guard over "things" which slowly
take control of our lives and become our masters.

In the mental realm, The Tower Symbolizes crystallized thought.
Crystallized thought is the stubborn "closed mindedness" so many
of us acquire when we choose to stop entertaining any new ideas
and fresh concepts which are constantly blossoming and growing all
around us. Crystallized thinking is the result of cemented thoughts
and beliefs which chain us to a time Past; a time which no longer
exists except within the confines of our stagnated mind.

Simply put, The Tower Symbolizes all Self-Imposed Limitations
which restrict our Freedom and curtail our imagination.

Mythology and fables provide us with excellent metaphors of The
Tower and what it Symbolizes. In these tales we are told of a
beautiful young maiden with golden flowing hair being held captive
high up in a Tower while awaiting her rescue by some handsome
young prince.

Of course, the handsome young prince eventually arrives, rescues
the beautiful young maiden and they live "happily ever after."

But what is the meaning of the beautiful young maiden, her golden
flowing hair, the handsome young prince, the Tower, and "happily
ever after"?

The Tower Symbolizes confinement, entrapment and bondage
within a restrictive area.

The young maiden Symbolizes the youthful, feminine aspect
of our nature in which fertility, abundance, imagination and
intuition reside. And, as she is imprisoned in the highest part
of the Tower, the young maiden also Symbolizes soaring
aspirations and a lofty Quest.

As Gold is Symbolic of the untarnishable and incorruptible, the
young maiden's golden hair Symbolizes an untarnishable and
incorruptible treasure waiting to be discovered and claimed by
a noble Adventurer.

The young maiden's long flowing hair symbolizes free-
spiritedness and unrestricted imagination.

The young, rescuing prince Symbolizes the masculine,
complimentary side of the young maiden's Divine Nature (in the
same way in which the young maiden Symbolizes the feminine,
complimentary side of the young prince's Divine Nature).
Furthermore, the young prince Symbolizes adventure, new ideas
and the seed of Abundance.

The rescue Symbolizes the Union of Duality in which the
complimentary masculine and feminine aspects of both the prince
and the maiden are finally re-united into One Stronger Whole.

"Happily ever after" Symbolizes Transcending Duality. Once
the masculine and feminine essences of the prince and the maiden
become united as One they are completely free to enjoy all of the
pleasures and Abundance of their Union. Their completion elevates
them to a higher realm of existence which is free of all of the
confinements and entrapments of the physical world.

Each one of is a young prince seeking his maiden, or a young
maiden awaiting her prince. We all dream of freely riding off into
the sunset upon a gallant white horse accompanied by the
eternal warmth and tenderness of our other half. Yet, isn't it
ironic that the same bondages and entrapments we fight so
steadfastly to escape from in our youth are the same prisons we
voluntarily construct around ourselves once we become "mature"
and "sophisticated" adults.

Perhaps this is the true essence of that inspirational message sent
to us in Matt 18:3...And he said: "I tell you the truth, unless you
change and become like little children, you will never enter the
kingdom of heaven."

Comments and Emails: I welcome comments and emails from
people with similar thoughts and feelings. My email address is
located in the upper-left area of this page. Comments can be
posted by using the "Comment" link located below each article.
Also: If you found value in this article please feel free to forward
it to other like-minded individuals, organizations and sites.

Disclaimer: None of my articles should be considered to be
either advice or expertise. They are simply personal opinions
and no more. Everyone is encouraged to seek competent
advice from a licensed, registered, or certified professional
should such advice or service be required.

© copyright Joseph Panek 2010

Self-Deception

"The greatest deception men suffer is
from their own opinions."
- Leonardo da Vinci

A deception is an un-truth, an intentional misguidance, a lie. When
we deceive someone else we are, in fact, lying to them. When we
deceive ourselves we are either lying to ourselves or we are
accepting as Truth a lie or a misguidance from someone else.

With this thought in mind, why is it oftentimes much easier for us
to believe lies and deceptions than it is for us to believe and accept
the Truth?

One reason we allow ourselves to be deceived is that there are
certain things we wish were true. We blind ourselves to all actions,
information and facts that are in opposition to whatever it is that
we "wish" to Believe. We deceive ourselves into believing that if we
blindly follow a deception it will eventually turn itself into the Truth.
However, as a deception or lie is completely contradictory to the
Truth, this "wish" of ours can never come into fruition and we end
up holding the rotted remains of a Self-Deception of our own
creation.

A second way in which we permit ourselves to be deceived is when
we allow the Opinions, arguments and self-serving comments of
others to influence our judgement.

In any issue there is only one Truth. However, in this same issue
there are many arguments and opinions which are contrary to the
Truth.

Why is this so?

The answer is rather simple. There is only one Truth. Truth does
not force itself upon anyone. Once it is spoken, or revealed, there
is no more to be said. Truth simply states its case and leaves it up
to us to either accept or reject it. Truth cannot add any arguments
or opinions to itself. Truth also has no reason to defend itself. The
Truth is simply...The Truth! This is why it is so easy for the
enemies of Truth to attack it.

For while Truth has has only one way to present itself, lies and
deceptions have many different avenues through which they can
attack the Truth and deceive unwary victims. Some of the ways
in which lies and deceptions attack the Truth is by way of Debates,
confusion and Opinions forced upon us by self-serving "experts"
and servant messengers.

We have been educated into believing that we must debate, and
"look at", all sides of an issue. Often, doing so simply clouds and
confuses an issue by allowing the demons of deception to enter
into the debate.

We also tend to believe that we must have a "devil's advocate" to
attack an issue simply for the sake of attacking it. In following the
path of devil's advocate, we often ultimately find the devil itself.

We have also been taught to believe that more "information"
enables us to make a better Decision. However, more "information"
usually adds to more confusion. Once the basic facts (the Truth)
of an issue has been un-veiled, anything else we add to the issue
simply creates a thick Mist of arguments and deceptions which
clouds the issue, confounds our thinking and leads us to erroneous
conclusions and Actions.

The vast armies of lies and deceptions are well-trained and well-
experienced. They have been practicing and perfecting their craft
for ages. Their "silver tongued" messengers have entranced and
slaughtered many innocent victims by persuading them to believe
in the folly and not the fact. For folly receives so much more
attention and promotion than does fact (Truth).

It is our responsibility to banish the specters of lies and deceptions
when they appear before us. However, before we can banish these
demons, we must first be able to recognize them.

Here are some of the ways in which we can protect ourselves
from being deceived:

Whenever we find ourselves confused about an issue we should
consider stepping back and taking a different look at whatever it is
that is confusing us. Confusion is a warning signal that either the
issue itself is not clear to us or we are allowing too much "information"
to clutter the issue and cloud our judgement.

Whenever we find ourselves entranced by, and carried away upon,
a wave of popular hysteria we must consider the fact that deception
is afoot and is working its diabolical miseries upon the masses. Truth
is simple and quiet; it does not present itself by means of popular
hysterias and delusions.

Whenever we find ourselves being entrapped into "looking at all
sides" of an issue we should realize that we are no longer
concentrating on the central issue, whatever it may be, but are
being led astray by multiple arguments and opinions which have
little, if anything, to do with the core issue. It is in times like these
that we must remind ourselves that deception has many "sides"
whereas the Truth has only one. The Truth is simply The Truth.

Whenever we find ourselves simply "wishing" something were true,
or when we find ourselves blindly accepting the arguments and
opinions of others without doing our own in-depth research, we are
opening ourselves up to a Self-Deception for which we have no one
to blame but ourselves.

Remembering that the Truth is simple, quiet and uncluttered we
should avoid all ideas, opinions and arguments which are loudly
forced upon us by the specters of deception. Once we are
introduced to the Truth we must accept it for what it is...simply
The Truth. Failure to recognize and accept The Truth when it is
presented to us can only lead us into dire Consequences.

Once we eliminate the clutter and wishful thinking which the agents
of deception plant in our minds we become able to focus on the
basic Truth of the issue which is before us. Then, with a clear mind
and unwavering understanding we are able to confidently act upon
the issue which is currently confronting us and banish the unholy
demons of Self-Deception from our lives.

Comments and Emails: I welcome comments and emails from
people with similar thoughts and feelings. My email address is
located in the upper-left area of this page. Comments can be
posted by using the "Comment" link located below each article.
Also: If you found value in this article please feel free to forward
it to other like-minded individuals, organizations and sites.

Disclaimer: None of my articles should be considered to be
either advice or expertise. They are simply personal opinions
and no more. Everyone is encouraged to seek competent
advice from a licensed, registered, or certified professional
should such advice or service be required.

© copyright Joseph Panek 2010

Coincidence

"God does not play dice with the Universe."
- Albert Einstein

"There is no such thing as a random coincidence."
- Joseph Panek

When two or more apparently unrelated Events or circumstances
happen at the same time it is not unusual for us to say, "wow,
what a strange coincidence!". We then tend to brush-off these
unexpected occurrences of as simply an un-natural phenomenon
or a random act of Nature.

Unexpected, perhaps. But to accuse Nature (which is an aspect of
Divinity) of performing something randomly or un-naturally is to
cast false judgement on Divinity Itself!

There are many Laws of Nature which we may be unfamiliar with.
But, just because we are unaware of them, this does not make them
un-natural or random.

There is no such thing as an un-natural coincidence. Everything
which occurs in the Universe does so for a specific Divine reason;
and it does so at its appropriate moment in Time.

When we speak of coincidences, what we are really speaking of are
events or circumstances which coincide with other circumstances
or events. Thus, coincidences are, in fact, coincide-ences.

The Universe contains an infinite number of Cycles which repeat
throughout Eternity. When two or more of these Cycles coincide
with one another an event, a coincide-ence, occurs.

When the appropriate amount of pressure builds up beneath the
earth's crust, it looks for a weak spot through which it can escape.
This coincide-ence of pressure and a weak spot in the earth's crust
causes a volcanic eruption to occur.

When temperature reaches a certain level it will cause an oily rag to
combust. This coincide-ence of temperature and flammable material
causes the oily rag to burst into flames.

These events may be unexpected; they may even be unfortunate;
but, they are not un-natural or random.

Coincidences, things which coincide, are natural pieces of a Divine
Puzzle which are governed by Divine Law. And though a Divine
Law may be a Divine Mystery to us, it is a Divine Law nonetheless.

These Divine Laws, these Coincidences, are a Mystery to us simply
because at our current level of evolution our faculties have not yet
progressed far enough to recognize and understand the Divine
Truths which lie hidden behind these Divine Laws...these Divine
Mysteries...these Coincidences.

With these thoughts in mind, the next time we experience an
"unusual coincidence" let's not simply "brush it off" as a mere
happenstance but recognize that "something" mysterious and
special is happening which we should pay attention to, investigate
and Learn from.

Coincidences are the veiled Mysteries of the Universe. Once we
begin to pull aside the veils which hide these Mysteries we become
Aware of all of the undiscovered Magic which Nature has conjured
up for us in order to make our Current Incarnation the Adventure
of a lifetime!

Comments and Emails: I welcome comments and emails from
people with similar thoughts and feelings. My email address is
located in the upper-left area of this page. Comments can be
posted by using the "Comment" link located below each article.
Also: If you found value in this article please feel free to forward
it to other like-minded individuals, organizations and sites.

Disclaimer: None of my articles should be considered to be
either advice or expertise. They are simply personal opinions
and no more. Everyone is encouraged to seek competent
advice from a licensed, registered, or certified professional
should such advice or service be required.

© copyright Joseph Panek 2010

The Four Elements (Alchemy, Astrology, Symbolism)

Esoterically, metaphysically, and astrologically we are Instructed
that the realm of matter consists of The Four Elements: Fire, Earth,
Air, and Water. Each one of these Elements is an integral part of the
physical universe. Therefore, creation is manifested by way of these
Four Elements.

Human beings are physical creations. Human beings exist in the
material realm. Thereby, human beings consist of, and are governed
by, the Divine Essences contained within, and expressed by, The
Four Elements.

The Four Elements are divided into two classes: one class consists
of the two seen, or visible, Elements and the other class consists of
the two the unseen, or invisible, Elements. The two visible Elements
are Fire and Earth, and the two unseen Elements are Air and Water.
With this in mind, let us take a look at each one of these Four
Elements so that we can better understand how we have been
designed by Deity to function within the realm of matter.

The Two Visible Elements (Man and Woman):

Fire: Fire is the masculine principle which radiates: it is assertive
and bestowing. Fire is the masculine Seed which impregnates the
feminine Womb. In the physical realm Fire is the Man; it is also
the Sun.

Earth: Earth is the feminine principle which receives: it is passive
and receptive. Earth is the feminine Womb which accepts the
masculine Seed. In the physical realm Earth is the Woman; it is
also Mother Earth.

The Two Invisible Elements (Thoughts and Feelings):

Air: Air is the masculine, mental principle: it is the conscious,
rational mind where Thoughts and ideas are created. The mind is
also the Gateway to Imagination. In the physical realm, Air is the
atmosphere and heavens above us into which we gaze for inspiration
and guidance.

Water: Water is the feminine, spiritual principle: it is the intuitive
Subconscious; it is the realm of feelings. It is also the deep Spiritual
Ocean, the primeval Chaos, where everything already exists and
awaits manifestation. In the physical realm, the Element of Water
represents our deep oceans which conceal and Veil, the numerous
Mysteries which lie below their surfaces.

A unique combination of The Four Elements exists in each one of
us and their unique combination determines who we are; they
determine our Divine Nature. For although we may be born a man
or a woman, a portion of the opposite gender is incorporated into
each and every one of us. This Divine Truth is expressed by way of
the yin-yang Symbol.

However, although all Four Elements exist within every one of us,
they are merely the "building blocks" necessary for creation. They
are not creation in and of themselves. For creation to occur, life
must be "breathed" into them by the Breath of Divinity which is
spoken of in all ancient texts. This "Breath of Divinity" is the
Mysterious and quintessential Fifth Element called Aether.

See also:
"The Apple - As A Symbol"

Comments and Emails: I welcome comments and emails from
people with similar thoughts and feelings. My email address is
located in the upper-left area of this page. Comments can be
posted by using the "Comment" link located below each article.
Also: If you found value in this article please feel free to forward
it to other like-minded individuals, organizations and sites.

Disclaimer: None of my articles should be considered to be
either advice or expertise. They are simply personal opinions
and no more. Everyone is encouraged to seek competent
advice from a licensed, registered, or certified professional
should such advice or service be required.

© copyright Joseph Panek 2010

Symbols And Symbolism

"Nature speaks in symbols and in signs."
- John Greenleaf Whittier

Symbols are mankind's way of attempting to express abstract
concepts and Divine Mysteries by way of drawings, artwork,
statues, patterns and designs.

We find artistic representations (Symbols) of the abstract and
Divine in the calligraphy writing of China and in the hieroglyphic
characters of the ancient Egyptians, Mayans and Aztecs.

We see Symbolic representations of abstract concepts etched
upon ancient pottery and carved upon cave walls and stone
monuments. We even see Symbols drawn within burial sites that
pre-date recorded history and the most ancient writing.

Since the most ancient times mankind has expressed its thoughts,
experiences, feelings and beliefs through the use of Symbols.
Ancient cultures understood that certain animals, metals, patterns,
Cycles and Events - both earthly and heavenly - were physical
expressions of the unseen Divine Forces which governed their
everyday existence and they used Symbols to pictorially represent
these Divine Essences and Events.

The Ancients also understood that they lived in a world of duality
which expressed itself as either a masculine or feminine principle
of nature. Masculine principles are those aspects of nature which
are assertive, bestowing, logical and conscious - the Seed.
Feminine principles are those aspects of nature which are passive,
receptive, intuitive and subconscious - the Womb.

We are most familiar with these masculine and feminine Symbolic
expressions by way of the Egyptian Neters (generally referred to
as Egyptian gods and goddesses) whereby either a masculine or
feminine figure is portrayed with either the head of an animal,
or some type of physical Symbol depicted atop their head. If the
Neter expresses a feminine principle of Divinity it has a woman's
body and if the Neter expresses a masculine principle of Divinity
it has a man's body.

Abstract concepts such as Truth, Harmony, Justice, Order and
Balance were also expressed through Symbols. And the Ancients
were very exact in choosing which animal, weapon, shape or
implement they selected to express these abstract concepts.
The most important thing to keep in mind when attempting to
translate and understand a Symbol is that a Symbol does not
simply represent a word, or a letter of an alphabet. A Symbol
represents a Concept! And because it represents a concept, it
encompasses all of the various meanings, definitions and insights
contained within that particular Concept.

It is extremely difficult to evaluate Ancient expressions (Symbols)
by way of modern Western thought; for modern Western thought
is bound, and limited, by letters and Words. However, Ancient
Symbolism, and even current Eastern thought, is unbound and
evaluates life, Nature and Divinity by way of Concepts - Concepts
portrayed by way of Symbols.

An equally important thing to keep in mind, when attempting to
understand Symbols and Symbolism is that for us to properly
understand the meaning of Ancient Symbols we must imagine the
way in which Ancient Cultures lived, thought, farmed and hunted.
We must also try to imagine the immense, dark, star-studded and
awe-inspiring night sky under which these Ancients lived; a rotating
night sky full of not only stars but planets, comets, meteors,
Shooting-Stars and Lightening. And finally we must try to imagine
how these Ancient peoples interacted within their society, with
their neighbors and with the countless, and uncertain, elements of
Nature to which they were exposed.

And finally, we must remember that because Symbolism is
extremely Ancient, the Divine Principles and Concepts which the
Ancients Symbolized could only be expressed in the tools, weapons,
and implements which were available to Ancient Cultures during
their Time.

For example: Where we would express "measurement" by means
of surveying equipment, the Ancients would use a rope to Symbolize
this same Concept. Where we may use a bullet to express the
"speed of thought" the Ancients Symbolized this concept by means
of the Arrow. Where we may express the means of "cutting" or
"dissecting" by way of a laser beam, the Ancients would Symbolize
this concept with a knife or Sword. And, where we would express
the concept of "communication" by way of a computer or radio, the
Ancients would Symbolize this same concept through the image of
the Tongue.

When we consider all that must be absorbed into the translation
of Symbols and Symbolism it is easy to understand how Ancient
Symbols can easily be either Mis-translated or partially translated.
This in turn can lead to our misunderstanding, and confusion, of
what a particular Symbol fully represents. And if we have difficulty
in understanding a single Symbol, how can we possibly fully
understand the Divine Truths and Concepts contained within
Ancient texts which are "written" with only Symbols?

Since Symbols represent Concepts, they can only be understood
through our intuition and Subconscious; not through reason and
logic. Ancient Symbols are the archetypes, the original mental
impressions, which have been part of our nature since the earliest
beginnings of Time. Symbols are Sacred esoteric depictions which
the Ancients used to describe Divine Concepts.

And because Symbolism is embedded deeply within each one of us,
it is up to us to reach deep within if we wish to understand, feel and
un-Veil the Sacred Concepts which Ancient Symbolism is designed
to reveal to us.

Comments and Emails: I welcome comments and emails from
people with similar thoughts and feelings. My email address is
located in the upper-left area of this page. Comments can be
posted by using the "Comment" link located below each article.
Also: If you found value in this article please feel free to forward
it to other like-minded individuals, organizations and sites.

Disclaimer: None of my articles should be considered to be
either advice or expertise. They are simply personal opinions
and no more. Everyone is encouraged to seek competent
advice from a licensed, registered, or certified professional
should such advice or service be required.

© copyright Joseph Panek 2010