The second day of the Tz’apin Q’ij (Wayeb) is said to represent recognition of yourself, during your introspective period. On this day of Aj, this could help us to recognise the leader within.

It is once again a fascinating combination for this day of the solar year. 8 Aj is a day of celebration of leadership, of standing up for what is right. Ceremonies can be made on 8 Aj to ask for leaders to draw on wholeness. It should help us understand that to embody the wholeness of the leader we need both authority and compassion. A compassionate leader without authority will be ineffective. An authoritative leader without compassion will be a tyrant. An effective leader can balance all aspects.

If we they bring these understandings together with this day of introspection we find some interesting reflections. As we finish up this solar year, this day of introspection may ask us to recognise the leader within ourselves. In particular, how do you act when faced with opportunities to lead? Aj is related to the spinal column and the spinal column is related to our strength and courage. It gives Aj the ability to stand up for what is just and right. Do you recognise this in yourself? In the past 360 days have there been times when you could have spoken out but didn’t? Has your action or inaction brought greater or lesser harmony in your community or family?

By analysing these things on this day of recognition we have the opportunity to strengthen ourselves. We can move into the next solar cycle with our spines straightened and strengthened. We can be ready to take on the mantle of leadership when it is asked of us.