Unveiling Reality: The Concept of Maya in Advaita Vedanta

As we delve deeper into the concept of maya in Advaita Vedanta, we encounter the profound notion that each of us possesses a unique cosmic blueprint. This blueprint is intricately designed by the positions of celestial bodies at the moment of our birth, weaving together our strengths, challenges, and life purpose. It is through understanding this blueprint that we can begin to peel back the layers of illusion that maya presents, allowing us to reconnect with our authentic selves.

The Role of Astrology in Uncovering Your Essence

Astrology, particularly Vedic astrology, serves as a powerful tool in this journey of self-discovery. It provides insights into our inherent traits and karmic lessons, illuminating the path toward our true purpose. For Anjali, the software engineer we met earlier, her cosmic blueprint revealed a complex interplay of planetary influences that reflected her internal struggles.

Analyzing Anjali's Birth Chart

Born with a strong influence of Mercury in her ascendant, Anjali was naturally intelligent and articulate, thriving in environments that required analytical thinking. However, her Sun was situated in the 12th house, often associated with introspection and hidden fears. This positioning contributed to her feelings of inadequacy and the sense that she was not fully expressing her true self.

Understanding Planetary Influences

Further exploration of her chart revealed a challenging aspect between her Moon and Saturn, manifesting as emotional blocks and self-doubt. While Saturn teaches discipline and resilience, it can also cast shadows of fear and insecurity, leading Anjali to question her worth despite her professional accomplishments. This cosmic tension exemplified the illusion of maya—where the external accolades did not align with her internal reality.

Unveiling the Layers of Illusion

The journey of self-discovery is not merely about recognizing our strengths; it is equally about confronting our shadows. Anjali's experience highlights how the pursuit of success, driven by societal expectations and external validation, often leads us further away from our true essence. The concept of maya invites us to examine these illusions critically, urging us to ask: Who am I beyond my job title and accomplishments?

Finding Clarity Through Reflection

Through guided reflection and astrological analysis, Anjali began to recognize the patterns that had shaped her identity. She learned that the emptiness she felt was not a reflection of her failures, but rather a signpost indicating a disconnect from her authentic self. By embracing her vulnerabilities and understanding the cosmic forces at play, she took her first steps toward transformation.

Embracing Your Authentic Self

As Anjali navigated her inner landscape, she started to incorporate practices that aligned with her true nature. She engaged in meditation and journaling, allowing her to connect with her intuition, which had been overshadowed by the noise of daily life. Additionally, she sought mentorship within her field, aligning her career path with her passions and values rather than external expectations. This shift not only brought her a sense of fulfillment but also illuminated the beauty of her cosmic blueprint.

Transformation Through Awareness

The more Anjali engaged with her astrological insights, the clearer her path became. She understood that her blueprint was not a rigid set of rules but a dynamic guide, allowing for growth and evolution. By acknowledging her strengths and weaknesses, she began to forge a new identity—one rooted in authenticity rather than illusion.

In this journey of unveiling reality through the lens of maya, we learn that the cosmic blueprint is a tool for empowerment. It invites us to embrace our true selves, reminding us that beneath the layers of illusion lies a profound essence waiting to be discovered. For Anjali, this awakening transformed her life, leading her to a deeper understanding of herself and her purpose.

Understanding Maya: The Illusion of Reality

As we continue our exploration of the concept of maya in Advaita Vedanta, we must first understand that the word "maya" translates to "illusion" or "magic." In this philosophical framework, maya represents the veil that obscures our true nature, leading us to identify with the transient and superficial aspects of life. For many, including Anjali, this illusion manifests as a relentless pursuit of success and validation, often resulting in profound dissatisfaction and a sense of disconnection from one’s essence.

The Nature of Maya

Maya is not merely an external phenomenon; it is deeply embedded within our psyche, influencing how we perceive ourselves and our surroundings. It leads us to believe that what we see is the ultimate reality, blinding us to the deeper truths that lie beneath. Anjali's journey is a poignant illustration of this struggle. Despite her impressive career as a software engineer, she felt trapped in a cycle of self-doubt, perpetually questioning her worth and identity. This dissonance highlighted the powerful grip of maya on her life, where accolades and achievements could not fill the void she felt inside.

The Illusion of Identity

One of the most profound illusions of maya is the misidentification of the self. In Anjali's case, her sense of self was intricately tied to her professional accomplishments. The strong influence of Mercury in her ascendant gave her the ability to communicate effectively and excel in her career. However, the placement of her Sun in the 12th house created a paradox. While her professional success was tangible, it obscured her deeper identity, leading her to believe that her worth was contingent upon external validation.

Recognizing the Shadows

As she navigated her astrological insights, Anjali began to recognize the shadows within her. The challenging aspect between her Moon and Saturn illuminated her emotional struggles, revealing how her fears and insecurities were manifestations of maya. Instead of seeing these feelings as inherent flaws, she learned to view them as clues guiding her toward deeper self-awareness. This shift in perspective was crucial in her journey, allowing her to confront the layers of illusion that had clouded her vision.

Peeling Back the Layers of Illusion

The process of unveiling maya is a deeply personal journey that requires introspection and courage. For Anjali, this meant engaging in practices that fostered self-connection, such as meditation and mindfulness. Through these practices, she began to cultivate a relationship with her true self, one that transcended the achievements and accolades that had previously defined her. This was a vital step in recognizing that her essence was not limited to her job title but was a complex tapestry of experiences, strengths, and vulnerabilities.

The Role of Reflection and Introspection

Reflection became a powerful tool for Anjali. By journaling her thoughts and feelings, she unearthed the underlying beliefs that contributed to her sense of inadequacy. Each entry was a step toward unveiling the illusions of her mind, shedding light on the fact that her worth was inherent, not contingent upon external markers of success. This realization was transformative, allowing her to embrace her authentic self without the weight of societal expectations.

Aligning with Authenticity

As Anjali embraced her vulnerabilities, she began to align her career with her passions and values. She sought mentorship, not just to climb the corporate ladder but to engage in work that resonated with her true essence. This alignment was liberating, as it allowed her to express her creativity and intellect in ways that felt fulfilling and authentic. The more she embraced her true self, the more the illusion of maya dissipated, revealing a path filled with purpose and joy.

Awakening to Reality

Through her journey, Anjali learned that understanding maya is not merely about recognizing illusions but also about awakening to a deeper reality. The insights gleaned from her astrological blueprint served as a compass, guiding her toward self-acceptance and fulfillment. As she navigated the complexities of her identity, she discovered that beneath the layers of illusion lay an infinite well of potential and beauty. This awakening is the essence of Advaita Vedanta, encouraging us to look beyond the surface and embrace the profound interconnectedness of all existence.

In recognizing the nature of maya, we can begin to dismantle the barriers that separate us from our true selves. Just as Anjali’s journey illuminated the path toward authenticity, so too can our exploration of this concept guide us in uncovering the deeper truths that lie within us all. As we peel back the layers of illusion, we embrace the invitation to live more fully and authentically, reconnecting with the essence that binds us to the universe.

The Role of Brahman in Advaita Vedanta

As we navigate the intricacies of maya, it becomes essential to understand its counterpart: Brahman. In the philosophy of Advaita Vedanta, Brahman is the ultimate reality, the unchanging, infinite consciousness that underpins all existence. Unlike the transient and often deceptive nature of maya, Brahman represents the true essence of life, the foundation upon which everything else rests. For many, including Anjali, the journey towards recognizing Brahman is pivotal in transcending the illusions of the material world and awakening to a more profound understanding of who we are.

The Nature of Brahman

Brahman is described as attributeless, beyond all forms and limitations. It is the source of all creation, the essence of the universe, and the core of our being. In Advaita Vedanta, realizing Brahman is synonymous with self-realization—understanding that our individual consciousness is not separate from the universal consciousness. This realization can be transformative, as it shifts our perspective from a fragmented sense of self to a recognition of our unity with all that exists.

Connecting with Brahman through Self-Inquiry

For Anjali, the path to recognizing Brahman began with self-inquiry. She learned to ask profound questions: Who am I beyond my job? What lies beneath my fears and insecurities? This inquiry was not merely philosophical; it was deeply experiential. The influence of her Moon, positioned in a sign often associated with emotional depth, allowed her to delve into her inner world. Through meditation and contemplation, she began to feel the pulse of Brahman within her—an awareness that transcended her professional identity and connected her to a greater whole.

Astrological Insights and the Revelation of Brahman

Anjali's astrological chart played a significant role in her journey toward understanding Brahman. With Jupiter, the planet of wisdom and expansion, transiting her 4th house of inner peace and emotional security, she found opportunities to cultivate a deeper sense of belonging—not just in her immediate environment but within the cosmos itself. This phase encouraged her to explore spiritual teachings and practices, deepening her connection with the essence of Brahman. The more she engaged with these insights, the clearer it became that her true nature was not tied to her accolades but was, in fact, an expression of the divine consciousness that flows through all beings.

The Illusion of Separation

One of the most profound illusions perpetuated by maya is the sense of separation from the divine. Anjali had long believed that her worth was determined by her professional achievements, a belief that isolated her from experiencing true joy and fulfillment. As she began to peel back the layers of illusion, she discovered the interconnectedness of all life—a realization that resonated deeply with her soul. This awakening was marked by a sense of liberation, as she learned to see herself not as a separate entity but as an integral part of the vast tapestry of existence.

Experiencing Oneness

Embracing the teachings of Brahman allowed Anjali to experience moments of profound oneness. Whether in nature, during meditation, or through meaningful connections with others, she began to recognize the divine spark within herself and everyone around her. This shift in perception brought her immense peace and clarity, dissolving the insecurities that had once plagued her. The realization that all beings are manifestations of Brahman enriched her relationships, fostering compassion and understanding in her interactions.

Living in Alignment with Brahman

As Anjali continued her journey, she sought to align her actions with the understanding of Brahman. This meant engaging in work and relationships that resonated with her inner truth, rather than those dictated by societal expectations. The harmonious alignment of her Venus, representing love and beauty, with her North Node, which symbolizes destiny and purpose, guided her towards endeavors that felt authentically fulfilling. By embracing her passions—such as mentoring young engineers and participating in community projects—she contributed to the world in ways that reflected her deeper understanding of interconnectedness.

Embracing the Journey

The path to understanding Brahman is not a destination but a continuous journey. Anjali’s story illustrates that the process of awakening to this reality requires patience, perseverance, and an open heart. As she embraced her authentic self, her experience of life transformed. The shadows of maya that once clouded her perception began to dissolve, revealing a vibrant existence grounded in love, purpose, and unity.

In recognizing Brahman, we embark on a journey that transcends the illusions of identity and separation. Just as Anjali learned to see beyond her professional accomplishments, we too can awaken to the deeper truths of our existence. By embracing the essence of Brahman, we not only liberate ourselves from the confines of maya but also awaken to the boundless potential that resides within us all. This journey invites us to live authentically, connected to ourselves and the universe, fostering a life filled with meaning, joy, and profound purpose.

Shankara’s Interpretation of Maya: A Philosophical Insight

In the realm of Advaita Vedanta, the concept of maya takes on a profound significance, especially through the lens of Adi Shankaracharya, the great philosopher and sage. Shankara’s interpretation of maya is not merely an abstract philosophical concept; it serves as a guiding light for those navigating the complexities of existence, much like Anjali in her journey of self-discovery. To understand Shankara's insights on maya is to embark on a deeper exploration of how we can transcend the illusions that bind us to a narrow perception of reality.

Shankara’s View on Maya

Shankara defined maya as the cosmic illusion that veils our perception of the ultimate reality, Brahman. He articulated that while maya is an integral part of the universe, it is not inherently evil or to be rejected; rather, it is a necessary aspect of the human experience. Through maya, we encounter duality—light and dark, joy and sorrow, success and failure—allowing us to navigate our lives while we seek the truth beyond these transient experiences. For Anjali, this perspective was transformative. As she grappled with feelings of inadequacy despite her professional achievements, understanding maya helped her see that her struggles were part of the broader play of existence rather than a reflection of her worth.

The Threefold Nature of Maya

Shankara elucidated the three aspects of maya: avidya (ignorance), vikalpa (imagination), and abhasa (reflection). Each aspect contributes to the illusion of separation from the divine. Avidya is the root cause; it is our ignorance of the true nature of existence. This ignorance leads to vikalpa, where we create false distinctions and identities based on our thoughts and experiences. Finally, abhasa manifests as the reflections we perceive, which often distract us from the underlying unity of Brahman. Anjali's journey exemplified this threefold nature. When she recognized her feelings of inadequacy as a manifestation of avidya, she could begin to dismantle the false constructs that separated her from her true self.

Realizing the Illusion

Shankara taught that the realization of maya as an illusion can be achieved through the practice of self-inquiry and discernment. This process involves questioning the very fabric of our beliefs and experiences. For Anjali, engaging in self-inquiry was a pivotal moment in her journey. Through meditation and reflection, she began to dismantle the layers of illusion built around her identity. Insights into her astrological chart, particularly the placement of her Moon in a water sign, facilitated deep emotional exploration. This connection to her emotional world enabled her to confront the fears and insecurities that had long clouded her perception.

Transcending Maya

Shankara emphasized that while maya is a veil, it can also serve as a teacher. By embracing life’s dualities and learning from them, we can transcend the limitations of maya. Anjali’s experience in mentoring young engineers and engaging in community projects became her way of transcending the illusions of separation. As she aligned her actions with her understanding of Brahman, she began to find fulfillment not in accolades, but in genuine connections with others. This shift mirrored Shankara’s teaching that realizing the unity of existence allows us to navigate life with greater wisdom and compassion.

The Path Forward

In understanding Shankara’s interpretation of maya, we recognize that the journey toward enlightenment is not about escaping the world but engaging with it on a deeper level. Anjali's story illustrates that by acknowledging and confronting the illusions of maya, we can awaken to our authentic selves. As she embraced her passions and contributed to her community, she found a sense of purpose that transcended her previous definitions of success.

Shankara’s teachings encourage us to see beyond the veil of maya and recognize the profound truth of our interconnectedness. As we navigate our own journeys, let us remember that the path of self-inquiry, compassion, and alignment with our true nature can lead us toward a life rich with meaning and fulfillment. Just as Anjali discovered, we too can embrace the wisdom of maya as a catalyst for growth, guiding us toward the realization of our divine essence within the tapestry of existence.

Maya and the Human Experience: Relating to Modern Life

Maya and the Human Experience: Relating to Modern Life

In our fast-paced modern world, where technology connects us yet often leaves us feeling isolated, the concept of maya becomes a crucial lens through which to view our experiences. The distractions of social media, the relentless pursuit of success, and the constant comparison to others can create a veil that obscures our true selves. Just as Anjali faced her struggles—feeling like a fraud despite her accomplishments—we, too, may find ourselves trapped in the illusion of separation that maya presents. By recognizing how maya shapes our perceptions and experiences, we can begin to navigate our lives with greater awareness and purpose.

Understanding Maya in Everyday Life

Maya manifests in various forms, influencing our thoughts, emotions, and interactions. It is the source of our attachments and desires, often leading us to chase after fleeting pleasures. Anjali's journey highlights this aspect of maya; despite her professional success as a software engineer, she felt an emptiness that stemmed from her identification with her achievements rather than her intrinsic worth.

One of the most profound insights from Advaita Vedanta is that the pursuit of material success, while not inherently wrong, can distract us from understanding our true nature. Anjali's astrological chart revealed a strong influence of her Moon in a water sign, which often governs emotions and intuition. This placement made her particularly sensitive to the dynamics of her environment, amplifying her feelings of inadequacy. The challenge for Anjali—and for many of us—is to discern between the authentic self and the roles we play in society.

The Illusion of Identity

The duality of maya often leads us to construct identities based on external factors—our jobs, relationships, and social status. Anjali's self-doubt was rooted in the belief that her worth was tied to her career achievements. This notion echoed the vikalpa aspect of maya, where our imagination creates a narrative that reinforces our insecurities. By engaging in self-inquiry, Anjali began to see that these identities were but reflections of a deeper truth, allowing her to peel back the layers of illusion and uncover her authentic self.

Transformation through Awareness

Embracing the teachings of Shankara, Anjali initiated a journey of self-exploration that illuminated her path towards transformation. She began to practice mindfulness and meditation, which helped her to quiet the noise of the external world and connect with her inner voice. This practice was instrumental in recognizing the patterns of avidya—her ignorance about her true nature. Through this lens, Anjali learned that her feelings of fraudulence were rooted in an illusionary perception of self, not a reflection of her capabilities or worth.

As she delved deeper into her emotional landscape, Anjali discovered that her sense of inadequacy was fueled by societal expectations and comparisons to others. By understanding her Moon's influence, she realized how her emotions colored her perceptions and decisions. This awareness gave her the courage to redefine success on her terms—focusing on fulfilling relationships and contributions to her community rather than merely professional accolades.

Living Beyond the Veil

As Anjali began to transcend the limitations of maya, she found joy in mentoring younger engineers and engaging in community service. Her actions reflected an understanding of interconnectedness, echoing Shankara's teachings on the unity of existence. By aligning her life with her authentic self, she realized that true fulfillment comes not from external validation but from genuine connections and contributions to the greater good.

Embracing the Journey

The modern human experience is often fraught with distractions and illusions, but by studying the concept of maya through the lens of Advaita Vedanta, we can reclaim our sense of purpose. Anjali's journey serves as a reminder that the path to self-realization is not about escaping the world but engaging with it more deeply. By questioning our beliefs and embracing the lessons that life presents, we can peel back the layers of maya, revealing the profound truth of our interconnected existence.

As we navigate our own lives, let us remember that awareness, self-inquiry, and compassion are powerful tools in transcending the illusions that bind us. Just as Anjali discovered her true essence, we too can embark on a journey of transformation, embracing the wisdom of maya as a guide toward realizing our divine nature within the tapestry of life.

Breaking Free from the Veil: Steps Toward Awareness

Breaking Free from the Veil: Steps Toward Awareness

As we navigate the intricate layers of maya, it becomes vital to cultivate awareness that allows us to peel back the veil obscuring our true selves. For Anjali, this journey was not only about recognizing her illusions but also about actively engaging in practices that led to profound self-discovery. Here are some steps that can guide anyone on this transformative path toward awareness and liberation from the confines of maya.

Mindfulness and Presence

To break free from the distractions that cloud our judgment, we must first learn to ground ourselves in the present moment. Mindfulness practices, such as meditation and focused breathing, help us detach from the incessant chatter of our minds and the pull of external validation. Anjali dedicated a few minutes each morning to meditation, allowing her to cultivate a space where she could observe her thoughts without judgment. This practice gradually revealed to her the root causes of her feelings of inadequacy, enabling her to address them with compassion rather than fear.

Self-Inquiry and Reflection

Self-inquiry is a powerful tool for unveiling the layers of maya that obscure our true essence. By asking ourselves probing questions, such as "Who am I beyond my achievements?" or "What truly brings me joy?", we can begin to dismantle the narratives that have been conditioned in us. Anjali used journaling as a means to explore her thoughts and emotions, documenting her fears and aspirations. Through this process, she discovered that her worth was not contingent on her job title but rather on her ability to connect and contribute to the lives of others.

Understanding Astrological Influences

As a Vedic astrologer, I often encourage individuals to explore their natal charts for insights into their inherent strengths and challenges. For Anjali, her Moon in a water sign highlighted her emotional depth and sensitivity. Understanding this placement allowed her to embrace her emotions as a source of wisdom rather than a burden. By recognizing how planetary influences shape our behaviors and perceptions, we can gain clarity on the patterns of maya that govern our lives. This understanding can pave the way for self-acceptance and growth.

Engaging with Community

True transformation often flourishes in connection with others. Engaging with a supportive community can provide the encouragement and perspective needed to break free from the illusions of individualism. Anjali found solace in mentoring younger engineers, which not only reinforced her sense of purpose but also reminded her of the interconnectedness we all share. Through acts of service and connection, we can transcend the isolation that maya often imposes, fostering a sense of belonging that nourishes our spirit.

Redefining Success and Fulfillment

In a world that frequently equates success with material wealth and status, it is essential to redefine what fulfillment means to us personally. Anjali began to shift her perspective on success, focusing on her passions, relationships, and contributions to her community rather than just her professional achievements. This shift was instrumental in liberating her from the constraints of maya, allowing her to embrace a more holistic view of her life. By identifying our own values and aligning our actions with them, we can create a life that resonates with our true selves.

Embracing Impermanence

One of the core teachings of Advaita Vedanta is the understanding of impermanence. Everything in our lives—success, failure, relationships—is transient. Accepting this truth can liberate us from the fear of loss and the need for certainty. Anjali learned to embrace the ebb and flow of life, recognizing that her worth was not tied to any particular outcome but rather rooted in her essence as a being of love and light. This acceptance allowed her to navigate life's challenges with grace, deepening her connection to her authentic self.

Conclusion: The Path to Liberation

Breaking free from the veil of maya requires a commitment to self-exploration and a willingness to engage with our inner truth. Through mindfulness, self-inquiry, community engagement, and a redefinition of success, we can gradually unveil the deeper reality of our existence. Anjali's journey serves as an inspiring reminder that awareness is the key to liberation. By embracing the wisdom of Advaita Vedanta, we can transform our lives and realize our divine nature, ultimately leading us to a state of profound fulfillment and interconnectedness.

Embracing Your True Self: A Path Beyond Illusion

Embracing Your True Self: A Path Beyond Illusion

As Anjali continued her journey of self-discovery, she began to understand that embracing her true self meant transcending the limitations imposed by societal expectations and her own self-doubt. The concept of maya in Advaita Vedanta teaches us that the illusions we cling to—such as the need for external validation or a rigid self-identity—are mere shadows, obscuring the brilliance of who we are at our core. It is through this understanding that we can begin to dissolve the barriers that separate us from our authentic selves.

Recognizing the Inner Light

At the crux of Anjali's transformation was the realization that her essence was not defined by her career achievements but by her innate qualities, such as empathy, creativity, and resilience. As she explored her astrological chart, she discovered the significance of her Sun placement. Positioned in a fire sign, it illuminated her natural leadership qualities and passion for innovation. This insight helped her recognize that her true self was not confined to her role as a software engineer but extended far beyond, into the realms of creativity and connection.

Discovering Your Unique Talents

Each of us carries unique gifts within, waiting to be acknowledged and expressed. Anjali found joy in engaging with her artistic side, which had been overshadowed by her rigorous work schedule. She began to explore painting and creative writing, activities that allowed her to tap into her emotional depth and express her inner world. This exploration not only brought her joy but also reinforced her understanding that her worth was multifaceted and not limited to professional success.

Letting Go of Limiting Beliefs

As Anjali delved deeper into her self-inquiry, she confronted the limiting beliefs that had been ingrained in her from a young age. The fear of inadequacy and the belief that she must always strive for perfection were remnants of the societal pressures she had internalized. Through practices like journaling and meditation, she began to dismantle these beliefs one layer at a time, recognizing them as constructs of maya rather than truths about her essence.

The Role of Affirmations and Visualization

To reinforce her new understanding, Anjali incorporated affirmations into her daily routine. Phrases like "I am enough" and "My worth is inherent" became mantras that helped her reprogram her subconscious mind. Visualization techniques also played a crucial role; she imagined herself living authentically, surrounded by supportive friendships and engaged in work that aligned with her passions. This dual approach of affirmations and visualization gradually shifted her mindset, allowing her to step into her true self with confidence.

Facing Vulnerability with Courage

Embracing authenticity often requires us to confront our vulnerabilities. Anjali learned that her sensitivity, highlighted by her Moon placement in a water sign, was a strength rather than a weakness. By sharing her journey with trusted friends and colleagues, she discovered that vulnerability fosters connection. It was liberating for her to express her fears and aspirations openly, transforming her perception of vulnerability into a source of empowerment.

Building a Supportive Environment

In her pursuit of authenticity, Anjali also recognized the importance of surrounding herself with like-minded individuals who encouraged her growth. She sought out communities that celebrated authenticity, such as local art groups and professional networks focused on holistic development. Being part of these supportive circles not only reinforced her journey but also reminded her of the interconnectedness of all beings—a core tenet of Advaita Vedanta.

Living with Intention

Ultimately, the path to embracing one's true self is about living with intention. Anjali began to set intentions that aligned with her values rather than external expectations. She committed to pursuing projects that sparked her creativity, deepening her connections with others, and engaging in self-care practices that honored her emotional well-being. This intentional approach infused her daily life with purpose and authenticity, allowing her to navigate beyond the illusions of maya and into the light of her true self.

Conclusion: Your Journey Awaits

Embracing your true self is a courageous journey that invites you to look beyond the veil of illusion. By recognizing your inner light, letting go of limiting beliefs, and cultivating a supportive environment, you can begin to unveil the profound depths of your essence. Just as Anjali transformed her life through self-discovery, you too can embark on this path of liberation. Remember, the journey toward authenticity is not a destination but a continuous exploration of your true nature. As you navigate this path, be gentle with yourself and honor the unique expression that is you, for that is where your true power lies.