“The shadow is a moral problem that challenges the whole ego-personality, for no one can become conscious of the shadow without considerable moral effort. To become conscious of it involves recognizing the dark aspects of the personality as present and real. This act is the essential condition for any kind of self-knowledge.”
Carl Jung
The sun shines brightly this morning casting shadows all around me. I watch the tree’s shadows stretching across the street outside the window of the coffee shop. Shadows fall upon these pages as I journal. And, on the wall next to me I see my ever present shadow. Quite handsome I must say. And, as with many photographers, shadows are a subject of interest for me. I share many images of shadows on this blog.
Additionally in my practice of self-examination along with prayer and meditation I’ve come to know those dark aspects of my personality as present and real, what Jung is referring to as our shadow side. Discovering the dark aspects of my shadow side reminds me of the enjoyable task of learning more about myself and eliminating or reducing those that are negative and harmful. I’m grateful for shadows as a subject to photograph but also because they remind me there is yet more to know about myself. Time to post this as the setting sun is casting long shadows across my front yard. The end of another day.
6 Comments
Tom Dills
Lovely, graphic photograph. Very Monte-esque.
We all have our own shadows and highlights. Finding the equilibrium and balance between the dark and the light is a constant quest. Seeing the positives in both, when possible, is important I think.
Monte Stevens
Yes, seeing the positives as well as the negatives. So, often we only see what we want to see and can miss great opportunities to be much more than we think we think we are.
Mark
Love the photo.
I admire those who can think positively continuously – but then I wonder if they are just avoiding confronting the other side. I should have taken more psychology in school.
Monte Stevens
I also wonder the same thing about anyone singing a positive song all the time, what are they avoiding or hiding? In the final analysis we can only really look at our stuff, our shadows. And, taking mor psychology probably would have confused me even more.
Faye White
Love the sharp shadow lines, very nicely composed.
Monte Stevens
Thank you, Faye!