Sufi & the Goddess

I knew of Sufis, but until I met B the connect between the Goddess and the ideas of Sufis is starting to come together. The principles of Sufism in my mind previously was similar to Christianity just trade the word Jesus with Allah. I realize this is a big generalization...but the reality is both are very patriarchal. The more I read of Sufi texts such as Rumi, the more I wish to meet a goddess woman and sufi teacher.

Dancing Tara's

Moving into the dark times of reflection, I find irony in all of the family gatherings and expections. I recharge in solitude and this season is no different in that single respect. In fact this year P and I will be spending the holidays with both bio-families.

Last weekend I danced the prasies of Tara along with 23 other women and men. The experince was so opening, freeing. I am so grateful to B for putting the word out about the 21 praises of Tara dance. I made many friends in this intense workshop. Ivy is planning on start a local Tara dancing circle in Madison. I hope to partake in this group in the future. Check out the tara dhatu, the organization that keeps the teachings and dances of Tara alive. In the meditation of the dance, I have been moved to start the student-teacher program with possibly of starting and teaching a circle in Minnesota. The depths of Tara are just beginning to unfold before me in my dreams, visions of my divine self.

The 21 Praises of Tara

This most beloved of Tibetan Goddesses is the Protectoress Goddess of Tibet. Her name means The Star, as she is believed to guide her devotees across the ocean of life to enlightenment. The beautiful goddess Tara, (pronounced tah' rah), originated in Indian Hinduism as the Mother Creator, and her many representations spread from Ireland to Indonesia under many different names. In later Hindu scriptures, she is depicted as one of the eight major aspects of the Divine Feminine Principle, a loving manifestation in contrast to the fiercesome Kali. Like a star that perpetually consumes its own energy, Tara represents the never-ending desires that fuel all life. In The Tibetan Lamaist tradition, there are two Taras--the beautiful White Tara and the playful Green Tara.
I have finally decided that she will be the goddess tattoo above the lotus I already have on my back. When I originally had the vision of my tat, I sat Tara with the feel of Kuan Yin. I was a bit confused until I came across the White Tara, who is the compassion, love and wisdom aspect of Tara associated with Kuan Yin.
This next weekend I will be attending the 21 praises of Tara, a dance embodying the great goddess and studying tantric buddhist practice. A public performance to follow the weekend workshop.