Sagittarius is a mutable fire sign ruled by the planter Jupiter. It is creative, inspiring, and outwardly expressive. Sagittarius is a life-long learner and strives for excellence in that which speaks to its soul. Although it can become quite dogmatic when it gets too wrapped up in its own belief systems, at its best Sagittarius, represented by the archer, aims high, pursues its ideals, and leads others to seek and live their truth.
Goddess Guidance: Hera
Hera is probably best known as Zeus’ consort. However, before she was demoted to the partner of the philandering king of the Greek pantheon, Hera was worshipped as the Great Goddess.
There are many stories in Greek mythology that portray Hera as a cruel, bitter, jealous queen. From the queens and goddesses of ancient times to the witch trials of Salem and Europe to the underrepresentation and systemic challenges to women in power today, this is often the case. As writer, teacher, and activist Marianne Williamson says, “They used to say, ‘She’s a witch! She’s a witch! She’s a witch! They still say that only now they’ve changed the ‘W’ to a ‘B’.”
Whether they be women, racial minorities, members of the LGBTQ+ community, or people of any other or even a combination of marginalized groups, many barriers must be overcome in the pursuit of power. Even how “we the people” are taught to think about power is skewed in favor of those who already have it. How often are we told that power corrupts? Does it really? Or is it how we use our power that corrupts?
Power, like energy, is neutral. How we use our power puts it in service to good or evil. When we seek to control or manipulate another person, we are using our power in unholy ways. However, when accept our own power and allow and support the empowerment of others, we can do tremendous good.
Hera teaches us that we are all powerful beings. We have choice. We have autonomy. Some are simply taught otherwise. Hera encourages us to claim our power, honor ourselves with love and respect, and not to wait for the approval or permission of anyone else to do so.
Questions for Reflection…
· Do you consider yourself to be a leader? Why or why not? Who do you lead? How do you lead?
· Whose leadership do you trust? What makes them worthy of following?
· Do you feel you need permission to regard yourself with kindness and respect? Who do you feel gives you that permission? Is it possible for you to try giving yourself that permission?
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