I identify with the phoenix, a bird with an amazing capacity to soar, that is born from a self purified by fire, cooked in the comic egg, resurrected and reborn from the ashes of self-transformation.
My inner phoenix is nourished by anthroposophy, a world-view and spiritual practice announced by Rudolf Steiner and furthered by many others. In this blog I hope to share insights and comments that will be of interest to fellow seekers.
How I found Anthroposophy
I was introduced to anthroposophy in this life shortly after the birth of my first daughter. I had a longtime interest in alternative forms of education, having read “Summerhill” and taken part in the High Scope Educational Research Foundation’s programs. Once I started my family, I looked for local alternative schools, and found the East Bay Waldorf School. I walked into the school, spoke briefly to the secretary, and was directed to the parent library. The first book I pulled out and took home was “Karmic Relationships Volume III” by Rudolf Steiner. This volume is where Steiner speaks most directly and emphatically about the karma of the members of the Anthroposophical Society. I recognized immediately my spiritual home.
What I did next
I finished my Ph.D. in Child Psychology and completed Wadorf Teacher Training through Rudolf Steiner College. I worked hard over many years to prepare for the opening of the East Bay Waldorf High School, which did occur, and where I served as High School Coordinator and faculty member. I have also spent many years teaching in my local inner city public schools, bringing what I could from Waldorf education to these underprivileged children. Since I learned of anthroposophy, I have participated in and led study groups locally.
Why I write this blog
I think it is important that anthroposophical concepts and activities are available on the web. I have been enriched by other’s blogs and online discussions (see my links page). I want to contribute to the discussion, and do what I can to show that Anthroposophy is alive and relevant in the world today. The spiritual world is all around us, and spiritual beings are eager to cooperate with human beings. Lets take up the challenge, co-create, and share our discoveries and achievements with each other!
Postscript
I am no sage, but I suppose I aspire to become one. Really, the blog’s name was the only fitting one I could find using the name Amelia; other titles had been taken. Please forgive the hubris inherent in the title. Shakespeare’s familiar fatal flaw (that would be hubris itself) lives on. May the heat of the transformational fire turn all hubris into humility!
