The origin of depression may not be visible at all on an outer level where wealth, family, relationships, and success may all be in place and operating as signs and symbols of a successful life. Yet on an inner level, the inner being can feel bereft of that which feels necessary to life. It is this sense of being bereft - of having lost, mislaid, or had taken away that which was the source of hope and of vitality - that gives rise to depression. This is not to say that there is not a biochemical component to the picture as well. Only, that biochemistry is influenced by the underlying state of consciousness and the energy that it creates, even more than consciousness is influenced by biochemistry.

The consciousness that underlies depression has become more widespread today. At the root of this phenomenon is the presence of purification on both individual and global levels. Whether applying to an individual or to the earth itself, it is this force, more than any other, that is behind the manifestation, today, of the darkness that covers the light. Purification is based on the greater presence of spiritual light on the earth which separates light from darkness, bringing all that is not of the light into awareness for purposes of healing.

For example, at this time in history, feelings such as anger, hate, cruelty and fear can be felt more acutely within the consciousness of many, as can the sense of inner emptiness and loss. Though the former may be more visible in war-torn nations and areas of conflict in the world, it is especially in relation to the latter that we see an upsurge within wealthier nations of depressive feeling-states today. On a larger scale than before, the feeling of inner lack is being brought to the foreground by the force of light so that it may be directly addressed and healed. This is the time for it to happen so that each being may take the next step in their spiritual growth. It is also the time for it to happen for the earth's progress as well.

The increase in depressive phenomena is part of the discomfort of purification. It is also part of its promise - a promise which seeks to liberate humanity from darkness, yet which, in the process, requires of us that we experience what has formerly been kept hidden. Such feelings as sorrow, hopelessness, despair, and emptiness are stirred by the presence of increasing light. They are felt by the deeper self that is hungry for light and truth - that is hungry for a source of meaning - that is hungry for a source of light to banish the darkness within the self and within the world. Though the light is being sought and always remains present within each individual being, darkness obscures the inner connection with the heart and with the source of our being so that this light cannot be felt or experienced.

Nevertheless, and in contrast to the above, in the midst of darkness there is a growing presence of light arising, emerging from beneath the covering and pushing its way through the layers of darkness as it strives to reach awareness. This light is not only felt within an individual. It is light that is increasingly infusing the planetary sphere and it has a direct effect on every individual that is present on the earth. Though at first it may appear to bring into awareness that which is lacking, it is also bringing with it new hope - hope that is based on the awareness of the true light of being - hope that is born out of the recognition of one's God-self that is both a core identity and a source of love and joy.

Though the light that shines in the darkness may be invisible for this moment, it is nevertheless doing its work so that the covering of darkness can be lifted and the true measure of who one is and what life is can be perceived. In relation to this light, its expanding presence cannot be undone. Its arrival cannot be prevented. It is a matter of waiting in trust during this difficult period which is bringing new growth, and of anchoring the heart in the Source of light and truth so that even under cover of darkness, its gifts and blessings may be received most abundantly.