Kali: Embracing the Goddess Lessons on Change

Back in November I had a dream about Kali. She was screaming and everyone all at once ran. They tried to close a door and contain her, but the door would not close all the way. I ran to shelter myself with others in a bathtub. Her screams felt like waves of radiation, pain, sufferering that dialated time and felt endless while in it. I woke up from this dream feeling signifigant pain all over, followed by panic and fear. After journalling about it and finnally getting myself back to bed, I drifted off to sleep only to find myself in a dive bar, with Kali beside me. I found myself understanding that the shockwave I had felt earlier was change. The song Sympathy for the Devil by the Rolling Stones played in the background. She held up a teacup full of blood as if offering to clink glasses in a celebratory toast. I looked to the faces of other women at the bar before reluctantly raising the blood filled cup to my lips. I had made it through the turmoil, and felt drained emotionally but also lucky to have been spared.

I put on the song Sympathy for the Devil and began this painting to further explore that dream and it's meaning. The lyrics of that song tell the story of historical atrocities from the perspective of the Devil, highlighting major events like the crucifixion of Jesus, the Russian Revolution, World War II, and the assassination of JFK, suggesting that evil is present throughout history and that one should acknowledge its existence, even if they don't condone it; it's a commentary on the dark side of humanity and the potential for people to be drawn to destructive force.

You can listen to the song here if you'd like, while you continue to read about Kali below the video. I felt during the dream that song was not about her, rather a clear message of what was causing the forces. She is there rather as a guide, to see through the illusion and to help with getting through to the other side.

Kali: The Goddess of Transformation, Change, and Metamorphosis

Who is Kali?

Kali, the fierce and formidable Hindu goddess, is one of the most powerful embodiments of transformation and destruction. She is often depicted with a wild, untamed appearance—her tongue out, her body adorned with a garland of skulls, and her hands wielding weapons. But beyond this fearsome image, Kali represents radical change, the dissolution of illusions, and the rebirth of consciousness. She is both a destroyer and a creator, embodying the paradox of death and renewal.

The Symbolism of Kali in Transformation

Kali’s form is not meant to evoke fear but to inspire courage in the face of change. She teaches that destruction is not the end but the necessary precursor to new beginnings. Here’s how Kali symbolizes transformation:

1. The Death of the Ego

Kali is often seen trampling on Lord Shiva, her divine consort, who lies calmly beneath her feet. This imagery represents the death of the ego—the necessary surrender of false identities and limiting beliefs. To embrace transformation, one must let go of illusions, much like Kali clears away what no longer serves us.

2. Facing the Shadow Self

Kali is associated with darkness, not as something to fear but as something to integrate. She represents the shadow self, the parts of us that we suppress or deny. True metamorphosis happens when we confront our deepest fears, traumas, and limiting patterns and emerge stronger.

3. The Fire of Destruction and Renewal

Kali’s energy is fiery, burning away what is stagnant and outdated. She embodies the force of destruction that paves the way for new growth, similar to how wildfires clear forests to make way for fresh, fertile land. Her presence reminds us that sometimes things must break down for something greater to be born.

4. Liberation from Time and Fear

Kali is often called Maha Kali, meaning “Great Time” (Maha = Great, Kali = Time). She exists beyond linear time, showing us that change is the only constant. By embracing her energy, we free ourselves from the fear of the unknown and step into a state of surrender and trust.

Kali and Metamorphosis in Our Lives

In every person’s journey, there are moments of radical transformation—whether through loss, spiritual awakening, personal reinvention, or deep healing. The path of metamorphosis is rarely easy, but Kali teaches us that breaking free from our old self is necessary for evolution.

Here’s how we can embody Kali’s energy for personal transformation:

• Release Attachments: Let go of what no longer serves you—old identities, toxic relationships, outdated beliefs.

• Embrace Fearless Change: Step into the unknown with courage, knowing that growth comes from discomfort.

• Trust the Destruction Process: Understand that breakdowns often lead to breakthroughs.

• Reclaim Your Power: Kali’s unapologetic energy reminds us to stand in our truth and embrace our full, authentic selves.

Conclusion

Kali is not just a goddess of destruction; she is the ultimate force of transformation. She shows us that death is merely a gateway to rebirth, that the unknown holds infinite potential, and that true power lies in surrendering to the flow of change. By embracing Kali’s lessons, we open ourselves to deep metamorphosis, shedding our past selves and emerging stronger, wiser, and more aligned with our true essence.

Are you ready to invoke the power of Kali in your life? Let her guide you through the fires of transformation and into the limitless possibilities of your rebirth.