April 2024 | Volume No 4
FOUNDER’S LETTER
litany against fear
“I must not fear. Fear is the mind-killer.
Fear is the little-death that brings total obliteration.
I will face my fear. I will permit it to pass over me and through me.
And when it has gone past, I will turn the inner eye to see its path.
Where the fear has gone there will be nothing.
Only I will remain.”
— Frank Herbert
Despite Dune: Part I being released in 2021, I only stumbled upon it recently when browsing options for a Friday movie night. Frank Herbert’s ‘Litany Against Fear’ originates from his work of fiction published in 1965, yet I find it to be surprisingly enduring psychological advice that has clearly resonated across generations. Its timeless relevance lies in its portrayal of fear as a potent force capable of paralyzing the mind and stunting personal growth. As a small business owner and entrepreneur, where risk is a constant companion, I've found this litany so impactful that I've incorporated it into my daily meditation practice.
“I must not fear. Fear is the mind-killer.” This opening line is straightforward but it reverberates with a raw truthful intensity. Within the complexities of human manifestation, fear stands as one of the most formidable barriers to unlocking our true potential and living a purpose-driven life. Fear originates in the amygdala, swiftly signaling danger to the rest of our body, triggering the fight or flight response. While our higher cognitive brain can temper this fear based on our knowledge and experiences, genuine fear, in its myriad of forms, has the insidious capacity to cripple our mental acuity, cloud our judgment and impede our strategic and complex thinking. It is a primal instinct that once served as a survival mechanism but now often manifests as anxiety, procrastination, and poor decision making, holding us hostage to our insecurities and doubts, hindering our potential for growth and fulfillment.
“Fear is the little-death that brings total obliteration.” Within the crucible of fear, we face the looming specter of annihilation of our potential bestowed upon us by the divine, the obliteration of our dreams, aspirations, and sense of self. Yet, "Litany Against Fear" beckons us to confront our fears head-on, to acknowledge their existence without surrendering to their tyrannical hold. By acknowledging fear as transient, we reclaim agency over our thoughts and actions, liberating ourselves from its suffocating grip.
“I will face my fear. I will permit it to pass over me and through me.” This mantra reminds us to recognize our separateness from our fears and welcome it as a catalyst for growth. In positive psychology, few themes have resonated as powerfully in recent years as the understanding that avoidance of negative emotions tends to amplify them. Rather than suppressing or magnifying our fears, we are encouraged to simply observe our fear without becoming ensnared by its grip. Through this act of intentional surrender, we transcend the illusion of fear's permanence, recognizing its impermanent nature.
“And when it has gone past, I will turn the inner eye to see its path. Where the fear has gone there will be nothing. Only I will remain.” This concluding stanza encapsulates the essence of resilience through challenging circumstances and the ability to control our reaction when presented with a trigger. By turning the gaze inwards, we reflect on the illusions cast by irrational fear, discerning its origins and unraveling its hold over our psyche with rationalism. After fear has departed, we are left with a profound sense of clarity and self-awareness, realizing that beneath the veneer of apprehension lies the indomitable essence of our highest self.
So many of us find ourselves ensnared by apprehension and the challenges of normal, daily life–challenging work environments, financial difficulties, tumultuous relationships, etc. Apprehension can compound into hopelessness and make us feel like we are unable to break free and pursue our true calling. While having concerns and worries is a normal and valid emotion for many of us, fear—with its deceptive nature, can reduce us into complacency, convincing us that the pursuit of our purpose is synonymous with futility or failure. It whispers insidious lies, sowing seeds of doubt and insecurity, undermining our self belief and resolve. Fear is a barrier to our purpose. It wants us to settle into the lowest-vibrational version of ourselves.
At its core, fear is the progenitor of self-imposed limitations, constraining our potential and relegating us to the confines of mediocrity. The fear of failure, rejection, and ridicule exerts a vice-like grip on our aspirations, compelling us to abandon our dreams in favor of safety and conformity. In succumbing to the dictates of fear, we relinquish our autonomy, allowing external circumstances and societal expectations to dictate the trajectory of our lives.
With a few practical rituals, we can transcend the shackles of fear and move past it. Remember, beneath the veneer of fear lies your soul’s infinite potential and goodness, waiting to be unleashed. Embrace the unknown with courage and conviction, for therein lies the north star to self-actualization.
— Elena
APRIL 2024 CELESTIAL GUIDE
Unveiling this month’s noteworthy celestial wonders, where the skies above echo the complexities of our inner selves. For a comprehensive overview of all astrological aspects and daily lunar transits, consult your April Monthly Dashboard & Overview Calendar, nestled within your 2024 Edition of The Astral Planner.
Numerological Insight: EMBRACING THE POWER OF THREE
April 2024 resonates with the energy of number three. Associated with creativity, expression, and expansion, the number three is regarded as the number of manifestations, realization of dreams, and the materialization of desires. It symbolizes the synthesis of mind, body, and spirit—the holy trinity of consciousness—as well as the multifaceted nature of sentient existence such as past, present, future; thought, emotion, and action.
One of the most prominent archetypes of the number three is the Triad, representing unity, wholeness, and balance. In Christianity, the Holy Trinity—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—embodies the interconnectedness of divine forces. Similarly, in Hinduism, the Trimurti—Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva—symbolize the cosmic principles of creation, preservation, and destruction. In Chinese culture, the Three Treasures—Jing, Qi, and Shen—symbolize the vital energies that sustain life and health, reflecting the holistic view of wellness and balance.
Beyond religious contexts, the number three is imbued with multifaceted meanings in various domains of human experience. In psychology, it is associated with the concept of the "Id, Ego, and Superego," representing the layers of the human psyche. In literature and mythology, the motif of the threefold quest or the tripartite structure of storytelling is a recurring theme, reflecting the journey of the hero through trials, challenges, and eventual triumph. This synthesis fosters a dynamic sense of movement and vitality, propelling us forward on our journey of growth and transformation.
As we embrace the power of threes in the month of April 2024, let us tap into this cosmic energy to unleash our creative potential, communicate authentically, and forge deeper connections with ourselves and the world around us.
For further numerological insight, reference pages 29-32 in your 2024 Executive Daily Planner.
THIRD QUARTER MOON IN CAPRICORN: EMBODYING INNER AUTHORITY (April 2)
Under the auspices of the Third Quarter Moon in Capricorn, we are called to embrace the essence of inner authority and responsibility. Capricorn, symbolized by the steadfast mountain goat, invites us to scale the peaks of our ambitions with discipline and determination. With 3 months down, this lunar phase serves as a checkpoint in our journey, urging us to assess our progress, reset our focus, and realign with our goals for Q2. This Capricorn Third Quarter Moon is a reminder of the importance of self-mastery and the rewards that come from diligent effort.
VENUS ENTERS ARIES: IGNITING PASSIONATE PURSUITS (April 5)
With Venus, the planet of love and beauty, entering fiery Aries, a spark of passion ignites within our veins. During this transit, our desires are infused with a sense of urgency, propelling us towards new beginnings and bold adventures in the realm of love and creativity. It is a time to embrace spontaneity, seize opportunities, and fearlessly express our authentic selves.
NEW MOON IN ARIES: EMBARKING ON A JOURNEY OF SELF-DISCOVERY (April 8)
We stand at the threshold of a new lunar cycle, ripe with potential and possibility. Aries, ruled by the fiery planet Mars, symbolizes the warrior within us—the part of ourselves that dares to dream, to explore, and to conquer. This lunar event invites us to plant the seeds of intention for the future, to envision the life we desire, and to take bold, decisive action towards manifesting our dreams. It is a time of self-discovery, of embracing our individuality, and of fearlessly stepping into the unknown.
TOTAL SOLAR ECLIPSE: A MOMENT OF REVELATION (April 8)
The Total Solar Eclipse scheduled for April 8, 2024, promises to be an extraordinary celestial event, captivating astronomers, skywatchers, and curious observers alike across North America. This path of totality will stretch from the southwestern United States, through regions such as Texas, the Midwest, the Great Lakes, and into eastern Canada, encompassing cities like Dallas, Indianapolis, Cleveland, Buffalo, and Montreal. The duration of totality is expected to vary, with some areas experiencing over four minutes of complete coverage by the Moon.
On a personal note, my husband and I are excited to embark on a road trip to a neighboring state to witness the Solar Eclipse within the path of totality. This will be my first experience witnessing a Solar Eclipse in person, and I anticipate it to be an exhilarating adventure. If you're interested in experiencing this phenomenon and wish to find out if there's a path of totality near you, I've found this website to be a helpful resource for all things eclipse-related.
Eclipses have long been regarded as potent portals for transformation, ushering in periods of accelerated growth and evolution. As the Moon will momentarily obscure the radiant light of the Sun on April 8, under the darkness of the eclipse, we will be called to confront the shadows within ourselves, to release that which no longer serves our Highest Self, and to emerge into the light reborn. It is a powerful reminder of the eternal dance between light and dark, and the ever-present opportunity for renewal and rebirth.
FIRST QUARTER MOON IN CANCER: NURTURING EMOTIONAL CONNECTIONS (April 15)
Under the gentle gaze of the First Quarter Moon in Cancer, we are reminded of the importance of nurturing emotional connections and cultivating a sense of security and belonging. Cancer, ruled by the Moon itself, governs the realm of emotions, intuition, and domesticity. This lunar phase encourages us to honor our feelings, to prioritize self-care, and to seek solace in the embrace of loved ones. It is a time to tend to the gardens of our hearts, to nourish our relationships, and to create sanctuaries of love and warmth.
SUN ENTERS TAURUS: EMBRACING SENSUAL PLEASURES (April 19)
As the Sun enters sensual Taurus, we are invited to indulge in the simple pleasures of life and revel in the beauty of the natural world. Taurus, symbolized by the steadfast bull, teaches us the value of patience, persistence, and groundedness. During this transit, we are encouraged to slow down, to savor each moment, and to reconnect with our physical bodies and the earth beneath our feet. It is a time to appreciate the abundance that surrounds us, to revel in sensory delights, and to cultivate a deeper sense of gratitude and contentment.
LYRID METEOR SHOWER: A CELESTIAL SPECTACLE (April 22)
Named after the constellation Lyra, from which they appear to radiate, the Lyrid Meteor Shower has captivated humanity for centuries with its dazzling display. In astrology, meteor showers are often regarded as auspicious omens, heralding moments of cosmic alignment and spiritual awakening. As we gaze upon the brilliance of the Lyrids, we are reminded of the vastness of the universe and our interconnectedness with the cosmos.
PUPPID METEOR SHOWER: A COSMIC DELIGHT (April 23)
Named after the constellation Puppis, the celestial ship, this meteor shower invites us to set sail on a journey of exploration and discovery, both within and without. In astrology, meteor showers are often seen as celestial messengers, carrying with them messages of inspiration, guidance, and transformation. As we witness the Puppid Meteor Shower, we are reminded of the boundless possibilities that await us when we open ourselves to the magic of the universe.
FULL MOON IN SCORPIO: ILLUMINATING THE DEPTHS OF THE SOUL (April 23)
Under the intense gaze of the Full Moon in Scorpio, we are invited to dive deep into the mysterious realms of the psyche and confront that which lies hidden beneath the surface. Scorpio, ruled by the transformative planet Pluto, governs the realms of power, passion, and regeneration. This lunar event illuminates the shadows within us, revealing hidden truths, and catalyzing profound metamorphosis. It is a time of release, of surrender, and of embracing the alchemical process of death and rebirth. Under the Scorpio Full Moon, we are reminded of the power of vulnerability, the beauty of transformation, and the eternal cycle of creation and destruction.
VENUS ENTERS TAURUS: CULTIVATING ABUNDANCE AND BEAUTY (April 29)
With Venus, the planet of love and beauty, entering luxurious Taurus, we are called to cultivate a deeper appreciation for the pleasures of the physical world. Taurus, ruled by Venus herself, governs the realms of sensuality, indulgence, and material comfort. During this transit, we are encouraged to surround ourselves with beauty, to revel in the delights of the senses, and to cultivate a sense of abundance and prosperity in our lives. It is a time to indulge in self-care, to pamper ourselves, and to honor the sacredness of our bodies as vessels of divine expression.
MARS ENTERS ARIES: IGNITING THE FLAMES OF PASSION (April 30)
As Mars, the fiery planet of action and desire, enters its home sign of Aries, a surge of dynamic energy propels us forward on our journey of self-discovery and personal evolution. Aries, ruled by Mars, imbues us with courage, vitality, and a fierce sense of determination. During this transit, we are infused with the passion and drive to pursue our goals with unwavering focus and determination. It is a time to embrace our inner warrior and to fearlessly blaze a trail towards our dreams. With Mars in Aries, we are reminded of the power of intention, the strength of will, and the transformative potential of courageous action.
R E C E I V E the A T H E N A E U M in your I N B O X
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