Listen to the Moon

Some may think it silly to seek guidance from an entity with no voice. How might it issue advice if it lacks language? But the Moon speaks in a language all its own, and it has a lot of valuable wisdom to impart to those who are in tune with its cycle.

Our Moon

The Moon is a well known figure in mythologies from all corners of the globe. Often, it has taken on a pointedly feminine identity, and this is in part due to its association with the female menstrual cycle. Women and the Moon share a similar rotating timeline.

The Moon is also known for being both illuminating and cast in secretive shadow, which appoints it the position of a furtive and measured teacher. It goes at its own pace, and has done so for as long as humans have gazed upon it. The Moon shows us that there is a proper path and proper speed, and that all things happen in their own time. Our destinies follow this model in numerous ideologies.

It’s important to note, too, that science has proven the Moon’s palpable and significant influence; the waters of our planet heed its call. The Moon governs our Oceans’ tides. Is it so far-fetched to assume that the Moon can and does affect the human mind and body as well, we being the soft, watery creatures that we are?

Its Phases

The Moon passes through phases, and these are identifiable to the naked eye. Starting at the New Moon, she proceeds to Waxing Crescent, then First Quarter, then Waxing Gibbous, until she is at last Full. From there she enters the Waning Gibbous phase, then Last Quarter, and Waning Crescent, before returning to the blotted darkness that signifies she is New again.

Let’s define couple terms here: Waxing refers to growing illumination. As the Moon waxes, more of her becomes bright and visible in the sky. Waning refers to retreating illumination. As the Moon wanes, more of her will be hidden from our view. Crescent refers to a part slimmer than half. Quarter refers to what appears to be half of the Moon, but we must take into account the fact that we are seeing only one side, that the back is always concealed. Gibbous refers to a part greater than half.

It takes the Moon 29 and a half days to complete a full cycle, New Moon to New Moon. Approximately a month. It’s a fairly reliable tool for gauging time as it passes.

The Spirit of Each Phase

Now that you’ve familiarized yourself with each phase and when they happen in relation to one another, you are ready to follow another pattern. This is a pattern of a spiritual sort. The whole repeating process is itself a ritual, and it can be used to bring a sense of harmony and organization to your life.

New Moon

Intentions stir in your heart like feathers, quietly introducing themselves.

This is the phase for open mindedness. This is when you should listen to subtle ideas that have traveled a long way to get to you, to your conscious mind. They will be faint and not fully formed, but they are important, and you should give them your attention so that they may manifest.

Waxing Crescent

Thoughts have become seeds; will you plant them?

During this phase, ask yourself why these desires have knocked on your door. Why now? How do these ideas align with your current circumstances? Should you or should you not employ them at this time? Can they serve you? It’s key to inquire and to be honest with yourself.

First Quarter

An inventory has been made and now you must choose how you’ll apply it.

Now that you’ve weighed your options and you understand what you want and why you want it, the next step is to decide what you’ll do to make the appropriate changes occur. Don’t nit-pick yet; just analyze the situation from a general standpoint. How can you work this out? How can you make your wishes possible?

Waxing Gibbous

Trial and error will bring everything into the light.

As the Moon approaches fullness, you should attend to your goals. In doing so, you’ll discover obstacles, and by meeting them face to face, you’ll discover ways to navigate them. The details of your plan will unfold as you follow your intentions. At this juncture, it’s good to stay aware and to trust your intuition to make correct judgements in the moment. After all, you’ve already decided to follow this path. It’s bound to lead you somewhere as long as you stick with it.

Full Moon

Rejoice in this revealing light.

The time has come to celebrate your progress, to take stock of what you have accomplished. Be invigorated by your wholeness, by what you’ve created. Take ownership of your growth. Feel its entirety, and let it energize you. You are alive. You are living. Remember that you are complete and that you have the power to affect your circumstances, that you have already done so, and you will do it again.

Waning Gibbous

How uniquely beautiful, the perfection of Now.

Use this phase to be grateful for who you are and what you have. Be thorough in surprising yourself with the bounty of blessings that are yours. Even if certain aspects of your life have caused you disappointment or discouragement, do not allow them to erase the reality of what you have been able to achieve, what has given you happiness. You are able to seek the things you want, and some day you will have them, just like everything else that has already come and gone.

Last Quarter

You possess the key to your prison; free yourself.

Forgiveness is a potent medicine. In some cases, it’s hard to come by (ironically, that’s when it is most necessary). During this phase, let go of blame. It doesn’t serve you. It only hinders you. People make mistakes. No one is perfect. No one can infallibly predict the future. Forgive yourself for any shortcomings or mishaps. Forgive others for misunderstandings and slights. Heal yourself in preparation for the next chapter.

Waning Crescent

Presence and insight are inextricably linked.

Step freely into the world around you. Take it all in. Relish the present. Allow yourself to feel light and clean, to feel like you belong right where you are. You are a part of it all. The world is open to you. Let go of irrational fear and expectations.

Don’t strain. Don’t fight. Just be.