Inside each of us lives a witch, continually testing us to see whether we will claim or subvert our power. She's an authoritative voice, merciless in demanding that we dive to the marrow, weave our wisdom into our work in a way that enriches others.
The Wicked Witch of the West in the Wizard of Oz dramatizes what this powerful inner voice can look like if we exile it to the edges of consciousness: inverted energy, frustrated goals, unfulfilled promise. 
Haven't we all abandoned our discernment at some point? Stuffed our light instead of letting it shine, then wondered why we keep barking our shins in the darkness?
Growth begins by being willing to step off the Yellow Brick Road, out of our comfort zone, onto The Road Not Taken. The Tin Man, Scarecrow and Cowardly Lion discovered that the gifts they sought were in them all along, waiting only to be recognized and embraced.
Suppose our heroes had celebrated the Wicked Witch for her positive qualities: an awesome ability to tell it like it is, to express emotion, to persevere and to lead (think of that army of winged monkeys). Perhaps she would have been able to surrender her well-rehearsed "wicked" role and step fully into her authority.
Surrender as engaged detachment is a curious concept for many of us. Dorothy, however, is a powerful presence once she returns from Oz, having surrendered her old self and integrated her new experiences into her awareness. She knows who she is, and can consciously recognize and appreciate those around her for who they are as well. That's the keynote of maturity — and of a successful business venture.
Once we embrace our vision, find our true voice, we become like Dorothy, surrendered to our authenticity. With no curtain to hide behind, we're true alchemists, serving our clients with wisdom and radical honesty. Living the dream is magical. Glinda the Good Witch whispers in our ear, "The power to transform your life was within you all the time, but you had to discover it for yourself."
For further info:
Chocolate-covered prunes: clarifying your intent
Becoming a gardener of the spirit
"You're fired!" ~ "Thank you!"
Comments