Roots. Generative Energy. Foundation. Connection within Spaciousness. Receptivity. Vertical Axis. Awe. Humility. Gratitude. Patience. Wow!
"Head in the clouds, feet on the ground." These are words I've heard from some of the spiritual teachers I've had in my life. This is what calls to me on this day. If I'm going to ascend the Vertical Axis, I'd better have something Rooting me to my place on this earth. Did you hear the one about the four rabbis who went up to Pardes (aka Paradise)? Four men entered Pardes — Ben Azzai, Ben Zoma, Acher (Elisha ben Abuyah), and Rabbi Akiva. Ben Azzai looked and died; Ben Zoma looked and went mad; Acher destroyed the plants; Akiva entered in peace and departed in peace.
I've heard it said that Rabbi Akiva made it out because he remembered his Shabbat afternoon "nap" date with his wife.
What brings you back when you ascend? With whom or what are you so connected that you could leave Paradise in peace? Can your Foundations withstand the heights of Awe?