The Dark Night of Soul

The dark night is a long, dark period of emotional suffering and psychological re-evaluation that can be brought about by the loss of a spouse, the illness of a child, the end of a love relationship, natural catastrophes, sudden disability, and other unexpected life crises. The dark night can also be generated by a debilitating depression, a profound sense of disappointment, a feeling of deep dissatisfaction and an acknowledgment that something vital and meaningful is missing from life. The "dragon" is an ancient symbol of transformation; to "drink the dragon" means to experience and assimilate change on the deepest level of the psyche.

The dark night allows time for persons to heal old psychological wounds, delve into the shadow side of being, experience dream realms, connect more deeply with body and soul--and to discover what spiritually supports them when they can no longer support themselves. The dark night is a special time of incubation and transition, which can alter fundamental beliefs, attitudes-and a person's very being. It is a process of spiritual transformation that is a pattern innate to all humans. A beneficial process that supports the "growing tip" of human consciousness, the dark night brings many individuals to greater spiritual awareness and maturity.

Life crises can be seen as opportunities for spiritual growth and personal transformation. In a recent study of emerging world trends, the Institute of Noetic Sciences concludes in the 2007 Shift Report that profound transformations in people are most consistently triggered by intense suffering and crisis. A person may, like one interviewee, reach greater awareness through the life-threatening illness of a daughter; another individual may enter a dark night experience through an alcoholic addiction; and a third person may undergo transformative suffering initiated by dealing with the experience of childhood sexual abuse. In many cases, persons who successfully navigate the dark night of soul are able to shed self-blame, heal childhood wounds, and gain insight and strength from adversity. In every case, desolation and despair are transformed into increased compassion, personal power, and spiritual connection.