Powering Up

What does it mean to be in your power?  I have been pondering this question for a while now and recently I have gained new insight. I am eager to share my reflections.

In my view, power can be generated from two different sources: internally and externally.  I used to equate power solely with external possessions and control.  From this perspective, power comes from being a millionaire, having a high rank position in a company, or engaging in an abusive relationship (on the negative side).  The kind of power I am beginning to understand, and is tons more interesting to me at this time, is the power that comes from the inside - the power from within.

Perhaps the kind of power I am referring to is better known as "empowerment".  The prefix "em" comes from Latin and Greek, meaning "in" or "within."   Therefore empowerment can suggest the power within us. It is the enormous reservoir of creativity and potential contribution that lies within every person.  Imagine how the world would look if we were all tapping into our highest potentials.  Radiant is what comes to mind.

So where does that power come from?  What does it look like? .What I have recently discovered is this: there is calmness and clarity when you are in your power.  There is the deep knowing within as to when to say yes and when to say no.  It is knowing that you always have a choice even when it seems like you don't, and it is learning when to move towards something  and when to walk away.  Internal power is operating from a place of integrity and authenticity versus operating from your ego.  Essentially inner power looks like the Strength card in the Rider-Waite Tarot deck....I had to toss that in being a Tarot Consultant and all!


I believe this inner power comes from making a commitment to understanding what robs you of your power.  It comes through disciplined observing of self, being one's own witness, and sometimes seeking outside support and guidance.  It comes from making a commitment to self reflection as a daily practice, even if it is as little as 10 minutes on some days.  The process looks different for everyone.  For example, I often use the Tarot as a way for me to gain insight and clarity on many different situations. Wouldn't it be wonderful too if we all went on some form of personal retreat annually?  This should be mandatory!


For me, I have been in a process of unraveling the tightly woven threads that had me feeling weak and ineffective deep down for so long.  At times there has been great struggle, and I have been through some downright difficult and uncomfortable experiences.  Yet I am beginning to see how all of these experiences have played an essential role in bringing me to where I now stand.  More and more I am knowing myself to be a strong and empowered woman, making effective life choices that support myself and others. Additionally, I am grateful for being able to help others in this process, especially in the work I do with the Tarot.

Last weekend I received an immense amount of support and guidance and it marked a significant turning point for me in relation to my inner power.  That experience spawned the birth of this post.  What I am seeing is that the more empowered we are the more freedom and fun we get to have.  So in writing this piece my hope is that it may potentially create a spark in someone, somewhere, at some time.  After all, we are all in this earth school together. :o)