SIGNS OF LIFE - WHAT THE SHAPES MEAN

Vision Mandala - (Reflection Series) - © Sue O'Kieffe 2008
source image - shrubbery

If you've been following my posts recently, you know that I've been writing about Angeles Arrien's book Signs of Life. After studying the art of many different cultures, Arrien discovered five universal shapes common to all of them. The meanings attributed to the shapes describes universal aspirations, needs, and fears; each shape symbolizes a specific inner and outer experience relevant to humankind. (p. 29)

CIRCLE - wholeness, completeness, the process of individuation - the circle remains humankind's primary symbol for unity and stands for the mythic theme of individuation.

EQUIDISTANT CROSS - relationship. This is a coupling, synthesizing, integrating and balancing process, which carries a need for connection - to a creative project, a group, another person, or oneself.

SPIRAL - growth and evolution; a process of coming to the same point again and again, but at a different level, so everything is seen in a new light. Strong need for variety, novelty and change.

TRIANGLE - goals, visions, and dreams. The triangle is associated with pyramids, arrowheads and sacred mountains. An inate gift of vision may not be recognized. Those involved in the triangle process have a great need to follow their dreams.

SQUARE - stability, solidity and security. The act of drawing a square mirrors the process of constructing a foundation. Those attracted to the square are ready to build, to implement a plan and to manifest ideas.
(pp. 31-66)



NEXT - putting it all together...

PREFERENTIAL SHAPES TEST

Sideways I Slide Thru the Square - (Reflection Series) - © Sue O'Kieffe © 2008
source image - wild anise
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On my last posting I introduced you to the concept of the Preferential Shape Test, which was developed by cultural anthropologist Angeles Arrien.

Thanks to all of you who have let me know the order of your shape preferences. I'm sure you are curious to know the significance of the order positions. Here goes!

• Position 1 - Where You Think You Are - The shape placed here signals the process that now has your attention. It describes the part of yourself of which you are most aware...and most comfortable...at this time. However, it is not the most accurate indicator ...it only shows where you think you are or where you would like to be....it may mean you admire the qualities of the process it represents
• Position 2 - Your Strengths - The shape you have chosen as your second preference exhibits an inherent strength predominant in you at this time, whether you know it or not. The shape in this position indicates areas of your nature that are currently fluid, strong, and resourceful.
• Position 3 - Where You Are - This shape stands for the work that is really going on, at the core of your being. You must be aware of it in order to fully manifest the potential it represents. Think of Goldilocks ... when presented with multiple choices, the third choice was the best one for her (just right)
• Position 4 - Your Motivation - Position 4 points to past challenges that have motivated your current process of change. The fourth position ...discloses the motivation that triggered your move into the core work to be done symbolized by the shape in Position 3.
• Position 5 - Old, Unfinished Business - This shape identifies a process you have outgrown or one that you dislike. The fifth position is associated with unresolved issues you now wish to put aside and will reclaim at a later date.

(from Arrien, Angeles Signs of Life, pp. 23-28)

Next time I will talk about the shapes themselves. I'd love to hear what you think about this process.

Sue O'Kieffe
Sacred Circle Mandalas