In this episode, we delve into the seventh task of Vasilisa's journey in Women Who Run With the Wolves by Clarissa Pinkola Estés, centred on "Asking the Mysteries." Through Vasilisa's encounters with the horsemen, we explore the concept of questioning the seemingly unchangeable aspects of life, death, and rebirth. The symbolic colours black, white, and red in the story represent different phases of existence and encourage us to view these cycles as integral rather than just good or bad.

Inarra Aryane Griffyn reflects on her personal experience with the impending loss of her cat after seventeen years, emphasising the comfort found in rituals and ceremonies. These practices not only honour the end of life but also create space for new beginnings. Edwina Murphy-Droomer connects this to her own grief over her sister's death, noting how many cultures traditionally embraced death as a natural cycle with meaningful rituals, a perspective often lost in modern times.

Both hosts advocate for embracing the full spectrum of life's cycles, including the difficult ones. Inarra discusses the importance of reflecting on one's current life phase, whether it involves transition, death, or new beginnings, and how nature can inspire significant personal shifts. Edwina adds that navigating these periods with acceptance and creativity—like preparing for a new project or embracing a dormant phase—can foster profound growth.

The episode wraps up with a discussion on the importance of honouring life's cycles, from dissolution to transformation to new beginnings. Edwina and Inarra emphasise the need to approach these transitions with gentleness and trust, encouraging listeners to recognise and embrace their own cycles for deeper personal growth and meaningful change.

Summary

In this episode, Edwina and Inara discuss the seventh task in Women Who Run With The Wolves, which is asking the mysteries. They explore the concept of questioning and the importance of not taking things at face value. They also delve into the symbolism of the colors black, white, and red in the story of Vasilisa. The conversation then shifts to the topic of death and the different ways it manifests in our lives, including the death of loved ones and the death of old ways of being. They emphasize the importance of embracing the cyclical nature of life and the need to trust our intuition and follow our soul's calling.

Takeaways

• Questioning is an important aspect of personal growth and understanding. It allows us to challenge our assumptions and explore new perspectives.
• The colors black, white, and red symbolize different stages of life and death. They represent the dissolution of old values, the sacrifice of illusions, and the emergence of new knowledge.
• Death is not just the physical end of life, but also the end of old ways of being and the beginning of new cycles. It is important to honor and embrace these transitions.
• Trusting our intuition and following our soul's calling can lead to profound personal transformation and fulfillment.
• Embracing the cyclical nature of life allows us to navigate periods of darkness and uncertainty with trust and faith in the eventual emergence of light and new beginnings.

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