I have long been fascinated by the mythological figure of the psychopomp, which literally translates from the Greek as ‘the guide of souls.’ Most often, a psychopomp would guide a hero into the underworld or the afterlife, but truly a psychompomp is a guide for any major transition. In Greek mythology, figures like Charon, the ferryman across the Styx, or Hermes, the messenger god, would function as a psychopomp. In other mythological traditions the Valkyries in Norse mythology or Anubis in Egyptian mythology had a similar role.
As a figure, the psychopomp holds inspiration for the work I do here at Undersky because they can serve as an inspiration for guiding individuals through transformative experiences. Psychopomps can be bringers of great change and mediators between worlds, including between the conscious and the unconscious.
As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I also find promise in the ways that the psychopomp seems like someone not bound by traditional roles. Instead, they one are free to go and do as they please, capable of living in multiple places but ultimately belonging only to themselves.
Sometimes, when one feels out of step with a situation, when nothing seems to work or fit properly, it is a cry for transformation. In times like those, I believe it really is possible to gain wisdom and power from the very experiences that set us apart.
If you’re ready to transform yourself or your life, select a coaching session and start your journey with Undersky.