Patterns of Light and Dark

By Betty Bland

This is a particularly good time to view patterns of light and dark. At this time of year natures palette becomes very limited, and shadows stand out in stark relief against a pale backdrop. Similarly in black and white photography, the lack of diversity of color brings a sharper focus to the patterns and textures that are there all along, but camouaged by a variety of bright diversions. Since winter is traditionally known as a time for introspection and reection, it seems appropriate to consider the patternsthose in the world around us and those within our minds

The shapes created by trees as they stretch their bony ngers across the winter sky have alwaysfascinated me. In fact this is true in every seasonthe feathery tips of spring, the rich density and herringbones of summer, and the ever-sparser shapes as leaves whirl away in the fall. In each of these instances, the additional essential element of the pattern is the light beyondthe backdrop of either a gray, or blue, or sparkling sky against which these shapes can display their character. In order to see the full beauty of the pattern, ones focus can neither be on the nearer branch, nor on the light behind, but on the two in their interactions with each other. This same idea can be applied to the understanding of our life experiences. Whatever is happeningnow, whatever memories we carry, or whatever paradigms we hold through which we view our world, eachcan only begin to have meaningful form or pattern when viewed against the backdrop of spiritual insight. When seen in this light, patterns emerge which yield meaning and healing; the luminosity of understanding and compassion become an intrinsic part of the pattern. In his translation and exposition of Patanjalis Yoga Sutras (The Science of Yoga), Taimni refers to the essential yogic technique of quieting the vrittis of our minds. He explains this Sanskrit term as referring to the functions or modications of the mind. Although this technical term in yoga may seem far

aeld from our current discussion, it is not. Our individual minds habitually function along pathways that form a prison house around our consciousness. The Yoga Sutrastell us that those prison bars are structured by the way we think and act in response to lifes predicaments. We are formed by the patterns we create and maintain through our attitudes, decisions, and actions. We may think the world is doing it to us, but in fact we are doing it to ourselves. We are forming the prison that conforms us. Several of the Christian traditions use the term formation to describe their indoctrination classesfor new members, in recognition of the need to re-form attitudes and outlook on life. The classes teachneophytes how to view life in terms of Gods laws so that they can learn to live a new life in Christ. The same principle applies here. One needs to be able to apply the light of spiritual understanding in order to be able to see the overall pattern, and seeing the greater pattern, attune ones life to be in closer harmony with it. Each action thus adjusted provides further clarity for more effective understanding and more harmonious living. And so the virtuous circle continues, until we begin to see that universal light shining through our thoughts and motives, adding beauty to even the most difcult and shadowy parts of our existence. It takes both. Without the light that spiritual consciousness radiates, our lives become darkrecesses of despair, but without the adversities and trials of this physical world to provide thecounterpoint, spirit cannot experience the joys of victory and growing self-knowledge. Yet viewedtogether they form beautiful patterns that give rich meaning to the tapestry of life. Next time you are outside, look up into the heavens, knowing that whatever patterns you see are visible only because of the light source beyond. Take a few extra moments to appreciate the intricacies that our senses allow us to experience. And then think of your life, and know that all aspects of it can be transformed daily through allowing an awareness of the universal light of consciousness. This light, which permeates all of creation, is so imbued with wholeness of being, fullness of consciousness, and joyfulness of existence (Sat, Chit, and Anandaare the Sanskrit terms) that its presence transforms the patterns of our lives. The light is always there. We just have to change our focus so that we can be open to the largerperspective of spirit. May the awareness of this light create beautiful patterns of hope and meaning inour lives through the dark of winter ahead and throughout the coming year.