Wisdom Teaching #17

March 12, 2002

This week’s teaching is on the Astrological sign Pisces. Born between Feb. 20th and Mar. 20th they are the great peacemakers, mystics and dreamers of the zodiac. Pisces is a mutable water sign. The symbol for Pisces is two fish attached to each other swimming in opposite directions. The key phrase for Pisces is I Believe. Because of the symbol of the fish pulling in opposite directions lends Pisces to believe and not believe. When asked, many Pisces respond that they feel this to be very accurate.

Pisces is symbolically related to the ocean. The ocean is deep and dark and has never been completely explored. The ocean is the symbol of consciousness itself. Consciousness is the greatest mystery of life, much like the ocean. Perhaps this is why many Pisces are drawn toward mysticism, spirituality, music and the arts. These studies objectively explore being-ness and
consciousness. It is in these practices that we can all become more objective and observe our minds observing the world.

Creative expression and meditation are ways in which the Pisces energy can evolve. Both of these involve "process." Process is the art of letting go of certainty and of being in the moment. Going with the flow is the endpoint of Piscean energy. Imagination is also a key for Pisces because it helps them experience more of their “inner” world. For Pisces, the inner world can be more solid and real than the illusions the outer world offers.

What can you do to become more aware of your own Piscean energy? Anything that involves less of the “doing” state. Light a candle. Sit and listen to music. Watch your mind. Become an objective observer. It is in these states that we can get closer to transcending the self which is the absolute endpoint to the Piscean energy.

What is the shadow of Piscean energy? Escapism. This can take the form of too much activity that causes one to “check” out. Too much sleep, television, movies and food or sex can take you out of the reality of the world. The balance of both reality and escapism is very important in life. Infuse these Piscean activities into your world but don’t forget to do the laundry, shopping and paying of the bills!

Meditation is not a matter of trying to achieve ecstasy,
spiritual bliss or tranquility, nor is it trying to become a better person.
It is simply the creation of a space in which we are
able to expose and undo our neurotic games,
our self-deceptions, our hidden fears and hopes.
We provide space through the simple discipline
of doing nothing………
~The Myth of Freedom Chogyam Trungpa