In my last entry I referred to dark/light as an example of Yin/Yang. The first thing that comes to mind when I think in these terms is black and white photography. This is one of my favorite artistic mediums. The edges are more apparent than they are in color photography.The lack of color calls to the imagination. The shadows or dark areas give definition and clarity to the light. Rather than working against the light, the dark supports the light, making it shine more brightly.

Emotions are judged harshly if they have been labeled as negative. Fear is deemed negative in the Western mind and yet, in Eastern philosophy, it is seen as one of the Master Teachers. Fear definitely has two sides. Legitimate fear can save your life. Unrealistic fear can paralyze you. Learning from your fear increases your self-awareness and nurtures your spiritual growth. Sitting with an intense and uncomfortable emotion brings insight and often healing. Here is a practical example: When you feel fear rising,...