Gorse

Positive Qualities: Deep and abiding faith and hope; equanimity and light-filled optimism

Patterns of Imbalance: Discouragement, darkness, hopelessness, resignation

Definition: The soul must learn to live in equilibrium between the polarities of light and dark. Those needing Gorse have internalized darkness or pessimism in their outlook on life. This pessimism gives too much weight and depression to the soul, and erodes the soul's natural buoyancy. Gorse restores hope to such souls, so that they are able to look with a brighter, more expectant, and joyful outlook on life situations. This quality of hope deeply affects physical as well as emotional healing, because the life force is nourished by light. Such persons need to counter the darkness they feel within themselves with strong forces of inner light and luminous insight. Through Gorse, the soul learns to use light as an alchemical agent for change and healing, directing a powerful, illuminating beacon even in the most trying moments and bleakest situations.