At some point our shadow side has to surface in order for us to become whole. That’s the only way our path through the shadows can lead to spiritual awareness. Those of us who have been en route for awhile have had to confront some dragons and monsters. For that reason, I’ve always advised we not cheat ourselves. Loyalty toward oneself is the only way to continue on the journey. If we are disloyal to ourselves, we will be condemned to live what we’d rather not see ourselves live.