text explanation

The Lunar Eclipse

A lunar eclipse occurs whenever the Moon passes through some portion of the Earth’s shadow. This can occur only when the Sun, Earth

, and Moon are aligned exactly, or very closely so , with the earth in the middle.

During a lunar eclipse , the Earth is

between the Sun and the Moon , and the Earth’s shadow falling on the Moon cause the eclipse. The qualities of the Moon are enhanced , and a lunar eclipse can allow us to get in touch with our subtle emotional motivations without the interference of the Sun’s brilliance. As viewed from Earth , the Earth’s shadow can be imagined as two concentric circles. As the diagram illustrates , the type of lunar eclipse is defined by the path taken by the Moon as it passes through Earth’s shadow. If the Moon passes through the outer circle but does not reach the inner circle , it is a penumbral eclipse : if only a portion of the moon passes through the inner circle, it is partial eclipse : and if entire Moon passes through the inner circle at some point , it is a total eclipse.

As this eclipse cycle draws to a close , please remember a couple of things. First , we can’t start healing until we recognize that the problem exists and , second , please remember that we are all human and have frailties , so forgiving ourselves as well as other is an essential component for healing . Be well and practice kindness to all.

Rizka Arbaningrum ( XII IA 11/31)