I have been talking about imaginal cells in transitions for years now. It was an idea seeded in my mind by my friend and designer James Parr. James explained how the imaginal holds the blueprint that carries from caterpillar to chrysalis to butterfly. I have loved the idea that we too may have a secret map. A set of heart level values and deep knowings that if we quiet down enough to notice then might help us track through the stages of our lives.
I was delighted to find out recently that there is a concept called the ‘imaginal world’. A world where the angels live. The imaginal world sits up against our world. It is populated with spirits. The spirits of possibility. The idea is that we call possibility and inspiration for the future from the imaginal world.
I love this nuance. The imaginal map that we have always carried within is complemented by our ability to reach into the imaginal world to call in new possibilities for ourselves.
As the year comes to a close, I am thinking about my own imaginal map, the roads I have always wanted to travel. I am also trying to find ways to explore the mysterious imaginal world. A place where an angel might hold the keys to the next possibility in my life.
I’m listening hard. I’ll let you know how it goes.
-Jeff
Jeff Hamaoui is a co-founder and partner of MEA and Regen Communities, an entrepreneur, sage, wit, and poet. He’s developing a book and thought leadership on the topic of adult friendship.