The River As A Symbol (4)

Rivers as Mirrors. A calm river acts as a mirror. It displays all that is above it. It reflects the current peaceful mood, beauty and seasonal wardrobe of Mother Nature. It also displays the tranquil stillness of the Infinite far, far above. As a mirror, the smooth, quiet river symbolizes "reflection" and "meditation".

Rivers as the Subconscious. Chinese Feng Shui tells us that the calm section of a river provides the greatest amount of Chi, or vital energy, and is an ideal place to build a home. Here the waters are quiet, peaceful, relaxing and soothing. This part of the

river has a distinct calming effect on the body, mind and spirit. It is at this location that the river's waters are also the deepest.

Symbolically, deep Water represents the subconscious. And although our subconscious harbors our greatest fears, it is also where our deepest thoughts and innermost feelings reside; it is also the secret underwater workshop of our imagination. It is this point of the River, where "still waters run deep", that symbolizes our spiritual ability to "submerge" ourselves into a meditative state which enables us to reflect upon the wonder and beauty which is both high above us and deep within us.

Rivers as persistence. Rivers can carve mountains into canyons. All it takes is time. The Grand Canyon is an excellent example of this divine truth. This aspect of a river serves as a priceless metaphor which teaches us that, with patience and persistence, we too can wear away (erode) any obstacles which block our path or impede our progress. In this instance, the river is another expression of "Aesop's Tortoise".

The river, and its many different attributes, is a silent, ancient and wise teacher. Yet, although it is silent, its lessons are profound. Through symbolism, metaphor and its own unique personality the river slowly instructs us. It reveals to us the secrets of nature, the universe, and ourselves. All we need to do is observe, feel, listen

and keep in mind the song lyrics from "Old Man River":

"... Ol' Man River / He must know somethin', but he don't say nothin' / He just keeps rollin'..."