#316 Phoenix Rising

Continuing our Harry Potter theme, let’s chat about Dumbledore’s Phoenix, Fawkes.

Specifically, let’s chat about Fawkes’s Burning Day — you know, that day he’s consumed by flames then immediately rises from the ashes.

But, actually, before we get to the Burning Day, let’s talk about Fawkes at his best. He’s an absolutely gorgeous and powerful bird. As Dumbledore tells us phoenixes have “wonderful red and gold plumage. … They can carry immensely heavy loads, their tears have healing powers, and they make highly faithful pets.” (You might even recall Fawkes’s heroics at the end of The Chamber of Secrets when he saved the day.)

But…

Right before and after his Burning Day? Fawkes isn’t looking so hot. He’s a decrepit looking old bird with feathers falling out before he’s consumed in flames then he’s reborn from the ashes as a funny looking, wrinkly baby bird. Not very attractive.

Guess what?

We’re ALL like Fawkes on our Burning Days. At least the best of us — those of us who are willing to allow ourselves to be consumed by fire and then rise from our own ashes.

And, guess what else?

That’s not a pleasant experience. (Laughing.)

And, yet, a commitment to being willing to look a little ugly as we mature and evolve into the best version of ourselves while playing right at the outer edge of our comfort zone is pretty much essential.

So…

Today’s +1.

Have you had any Burning Days lately?

Let’s see that, if we want to have the wonderful plumage and astonishing powers, we need to embrace our ugly phases.

As Joseph Campbell said: “To have a resurrection one must first have a crucifixion.” (Ouch.)

And, as Viktor Frankl said: “What is to give light must endure the burning.”

So… Here’s to your Burning!