The Archangel Chronicles Chapter 5, Part 2

By Marty Boyle

(An excerpt from Barachiel,
From the 15-book series, The Archangel Chronicles.
Ginger, Barachiel, and the Ancient Mayan Goddess Ixchel
continue their conversation.)

Chapter 5, Part 2
Cozumel
Quintana Roo, Mexico

Ginger thought a long moment and then asked, “Your beautiful temple not just eroded over time, but was destroyed. Oh, I wish I could have seen it before the Spaniards arrived on Cozumel.” Ginger paused, as an idea formed in her head. “Ixchel, if, as you say, everything is a hologram, is it possible to see your temple as it once was?”
Ixchel nodded, seemingly once again pleased with the young human. “Let’s stretch our legs and walk a bit and we’ll see it together, shall we?”
The three walked down what appeared to be a well-trod, ancient path. Suddenly, they came upon a large ruin of dark grey rock. It had a four-tiered pyramid shape with what appeared to have been some type of altar at the top, but which had crumbled over time. They gazed in the silence of their own thoughts for a long moment before Ixchel continued.
“This is the largest Mayan ruin of San Gervasio, although there are several smaller ones scattered throughout the island of Cozumel. The original Mayan name for this temple was Tantún Cuzamil [TAN-tune Cos-a-meel]. The name Cuzamil is Mayan for place of the swallows, named for the many swallows on the island. Archaeologists date it back to A.D. 300-400, although ancient Mayans had lived here for half a millennia before that time.”
Suddenly, the hologram materialized: Tantún Cuzamil in its glorious prime. Ixchel’s temple was covered in stucco, painted with the same bright colors of the braided headband the Goddess had gifted Ginger: red, blue, ochre, green, and black. There was a covered altar at the top of the pyramid, where offerings could be made, in hopes of intercession by Ixchel or blessings from her. The base and the stairway were decorated with small human face sculptures. Ginger gazed, wide-eyed at the beautiful temple before her.
Her attention was then drawn to a musician-led procession. The musicians were dressed in what seemed to be elaborate symbolism. They played a variety of musical instruments, including drums, flutes, trumpets, made from wood, clay and gourds, as well as rattles. The sound soared through Ginger, filling her with Light, and she could only gasp in its beauty.
Next walked priests and priestesses. The priests wore their long hair tied up with ribbons or cloth, adorned with beads, feathers or flowers, while the priestesses had their hair braided with those same beads, feathers and flowers. The priests wore colorful, elaborately designed loincloths; the priestesses were covered in ankle-long, loose, rectangular garments. These, too, were colorful and featured Ixchel’s symbolism. Both sported elaborate headdresses that featured symbols of the gods and goddesses or revered animals, and were encrusted with precious stones and feathers. Like the Warrior Queen, there were delicate lines of blue and green paint on their bodies.
The pilgrims followed in far simpler dress, but they seemed to be relegated only to certain parts of the temple, where they could pay homage to the goddess and leave offerings, which were then carried up to the altar by the priests and priestesses.
Suddenly, Ginger felt very tall, compared to the height of the Mesoamerican people of that era, and she shook her head in amazement, mesmerized by the sights and sounds before her. Ginger shyly gazed at Ixchel, who smiled gently in return.
            “Are you overwhelmed by all of this?” Ixchel asked. “You’ve already learned a great deal today.”
            Tears streaked Ginger’s face, but she shook her head. “I know this sounds crazy, but I feel as if I’ve been here before, doing this, performing these rites and rituals.”
            “That’s because you have, precious child. You spent one lifetime here as a priestess to help others pay homage and seek guidance. Your name was Kuxtal [COOS-stel], which means Life, and you were very happy here. You lived a long, healthy life, and died of old age at 40, still committed to the task you had chosen: to pay homage to the Goddess of Light. You were blessed. You are blessed.”
            Ginger’s joyful tears continued to fall, as thousands of memories of that lifetime cascaded through her mind. It took several moments for her to find her balance.
            “I seem to remember a building where an oracle spoke through the goddess to answer questions from the pilgrims.”
            Ixchel nodded. “Yes. The Ka’na Nah [GAH-nuh], The Tall House, was another sacred building on our island. There, a priest or priestess, as the oracle, would enter a door behind a large ceramic image of me, into a sacristy-of-sorts, and answer questions, as well as share wisdom and advice.” Ginger nodded.
            “That sounds very familiar. Perhaps my tasks included cleaning that sacristy for the Oracle.”
            Ixchel smiled, and picked up Ginger’s hands. “Precious child, you did not choose to come for that incarnation to clean, but to deliver messages from me to my people.”
            Ginger gasped. “Are you saying what I think you’re saying?”
            The Goddess nodded. “For that lifetime, you were an Oracle for my temple. You were deeply connected to me and my Wisdom, making you the perfect vessel to deliver that Wisdom. In that lifetime, you did not struggle with Self-Doubt, but Trusted that my words would come through you. I am deeply grateful that you honored me during your entire lifetime, Ginger. And today, while I would have gladly met you just as Barachiel’s new friend, I wanted to personally express my gratitude for a lifetime well and truly lived – just like all of your lifetimes.” She paused. “You may think of this journey with Barachiel as a quest, but in truth, all of your lifetimes – like every other soul – has been the true quest.”
            Ginger had long passed amazement and was now in a gentle state of wonderment. For a long time, Barachiel and Ixchel were silent, allowing Ginger to come to terms with her new understanding. Finally, the Goddess spoke.
            “Why don’t we try a change of scenery, which will also give you time to absorb what you’ve learned?”
            Ginger nodded, and suddenly, the three were standing on a beautiful, white sandy beach on the island, gazing out at the turquoise sea in front of them. The sound of the waves hitting the shore lulled Ginger’s racing thoughts, allowing a curious realization to emerge from the deepest part of her soul: I have a deep connection to the ocean. We are bonded. As Peace enveloped her, Ginger smiled. Finally, she spoke.
            “It seems surreal that I had such a wonderfully meaningful lifetime, honoring you, Goddess. I am deeply grateful that you not only shared that lifetime with me then, but met with me today. Hopefully, I will be able to preserve the memories of my time with you today, as well as that lifetime?”
            Ixchel smiled. “You have earned those memories, Kuxtal. The memories will remain.” She paused. “I sense a question coming. Please, ask.”
            “I want to better understand what a Goddess does exactly. I still remember taking that mythology class in high school, but those memories are fading. I hope this isn’t rude, but as a Goddess, what do you do all day?”
            Ixchel and Barachiel laughed, and Ginger had no choice but to join them. After a moment, Ixchel caught her breath and answered.
            “First, I suggest we talk more about gods and goddesses, and then I promise to answer your question, Ginger. Most likely, that mythology class of yours focused on Greek and Roman deities: Zeus/Jupiter, King of the gods; Hera/Juno, Queen of the gods, Poseidon/Neptune, God of the seas, … The pantheon goes on and on. You probably also studied the Norse mythology: Odin, Ruler, associated with wisdom and war, Thor, God of thunder, among others.”
“But those lists are woefully limiting, for all indigenous people have gods and goddesses. There are many, many magnificent goddesses who are awaiting an invitation into human hearts: Goddesses Isis and Hathor of Egypt, Goddess Green Tara, revered by Tibetan Buddhists, but originating from the Sirius Star System planet called Karnak, Goddesses Mother Mary and Mary Magdalene from the Middle East, Goddess Quan Yin from China, and Goddess White Buffalo Woman from the Great Plains in North America. These are just a few, but far greater is Goddess Gaia. You may know her better by her other name, Mother Earth. She was the first to step forth from the chaos of the emerging planet. Goddess Gaia is associated with creation, the abundance of nature and nurturing all within her. She is a sentient being – one who can perceive and respond through her senses. You would be wise to connect with Goddess Gaia.”
“But, aren’t goddesses alive? How can a planet be a goddess – even though we call her Mother Earth? I thought that was just an expression, not recognizing her as a sentient creature.”
“Goddess Gaia is a sentient being, just as is everything in the Universe. When you visited Norway, you learned about some of the gods and goddesses of the Sámi community, and I suspect that Áhkku will teach you much more should you choose to return.”
“So, how did the whole gods and goddesses thing come into being?” Ginger asked.
            Ixchel smiled. “I love your curious mind and open heart. As for your question, let’s begin with history again. Early humans felt adrift, feeling abandoned by Source/Creator, and needed to better understand their world. They wished to celebrate those who had provided them a good harvest, for example, or explain why a flood destroyed an entire village. Out of those needs, gods and goddesses emerged – both life-affirming and destructive. They simply filled a need. Over time, much of humanity no longer felt such a need, and gods and goddesses became outdated, and many were cast aside, relegating them to mere mythology. The indigenous people across the globe, who were geographically isolated, and therefore, sheltered from modern civilization, continued to believe and honor their own beloved deities.” Ixchel paused. “Still with me?” When Ginger nodded, the Goddess continued.
            “And while there are many, many male deities – gods – many more cultures embraced the image of a mother goddess, who would lovingly care for her children, as well as scold them when they displeased her. As a result, in most cultures, there are more goddesses than gods.”
            Ginger’s eyes grew wide. “Goddesses scold, as well as protect their people?”
            Ixchel nodded. “I am a prime example of that, Ginger. You see me now as a gentle maiden, but you also felt my great power as Mother – the Warrior Queen. There is a third image of me that has been passed down through the ages, as well: that of the Crone. Together, Maiden, Mother, and Crone symbolize the three stages of life: youth, child-bearing years, and post child-bearing years.”
            Again, the hologram shifted, and Maiden was replaced with a gnarled old woman with a fierce scowl upon her face. Ginger gasped, and instinctively drew closer to Barachiel.
            Crone was dressed in a cropped green and red top, and a green, red, ochre and black skirt with crossbones adorning the edge. She wore a chunky green necklace and bands around her wrists. Her large, deformed feet were bare. Crone sat hunched over; her gnarled fingers holding a water jug. Crone’s headdress was a hideous, green curled snake. Crone stared at Ginger with roving eyes, which caused a terrified Ginger to be almost on top of Barachiel.
            Finally, the Crone spoke. “I am Crone. Have you questions for me, young human?”
            Ginger glanced at Barachiel, and clearly heard the archangel’s wisdom: You have been taught. How will you respond?
            It took more than a moment for Ginger to find her tongue, but she knew Barachiel was right. She gulped audibly and stepped forward and curtsied deeply to the hag. “Goddess Crone, I honor you in the same fashion that I honor Maiden and Mother. I am grateful for this opportunity. Thank you.”
            As Ginger expressed her gratitude, Crone began yet another transformation. This time, she morphed into another old woman, but one of immense beauty – the aged Maiden/Mother. She had silvery hair that fell to her waist, and her beautiful brown complexion remained flawless, despite her evident age. She wore a forest green cape over a pale green flowing gown, the hood of which lay gently on her head. She smiled at Ginger, and then spoke.
            “Precious Child, I am pleased with you. You chose to rise above the perceived horror of the hologram and view this opportunity with Gratitude. Let’s examine the symbolism of Crone for a moment. She was holding a water jug, which symbolizes hurricanes and destructive storms. But, remember that by rising above the horror and loss of life by the fury of wind and water, new growth and transformation arise like the phoenix. In Mayan culture, death and destruction are integral parts of renewal and rebirth.”
            “You were appalled by the snake crown – a natural human reaction. However, a wiser response might be to remember that her crown symbolizes wisdom and connection to the underworld, as well as the cycles of life and death. Some refer to Crone as The Keeper of Souls; she is not afraid of the shadows that often haunt humans’ minds in order to help guide those humans into the Light.”
            “As a gnarled, disfigured old woman, Crone symbolizes deep intuitive knowledge, reverence and wisdom that often come with age.” The elder paused. “Do you better understand Crone now, Ginger?”
            Ginger nodded, and then realized that an answer would be expected. She thought a moment and then replied, “Yes, Goddess. It’s like the hologram we talked about earlier. Things are never what they appear to be, because everything is Illusion. All of you have given me a great deal to think about, and I am deeply grateful. You are beautiful in all of your forms.”
Ixchel smiled. “It matters not how I am seen by the peoples of Earth, but that I am seen. If they invite me into their lives, I will guide them as they navigate their chosen tasks. Like my dear friend, Barachiel, I am available to help at any time.” Crone paused. “Dear Ginger, part of your sacred task is to embrace the The Power of the Divine Feminine and move me out of mythology and into the world, which is in great need of my power.”
            Ginger nodded. “You mentioned the Divine Feminine earlier and promised we would talk more about it.”
            Ixchel smiled. “I would be happy to talk with you about that, but I would like to start by saying that the Divine Feminine and the Divine Masculine have absolutely nothing to do with gender, but is the harmonious integration of energies that all humans share.”
“Divine Masculine energy showcases traits like action, strength, logic and protection. It is the drive, assertiveness and analytical thinking needed to resolve problems – all wonderful energies that help journeying souls on their chosen paths.”
            “On the other hand, Divine Feminine energies would be qualities like intuition, nurturing, receptivity, and creativity. They are a source of wisdom, compassion and emotional depth. Again, all wonderful energies!”
            Ginger looked confused. “If all of those energies are wonderful, what’s the problem? What am I missing?’
            “Have you ever heard of patriarchy or matriarchy, Ginger?”
            “Yes, but I really don’t know what they mean,” she admitted.
            “Patriarchy is a societal and/or governmental system, that promotes the concept that that men hold primary power and authority. Your anthropologists estimate that it came into being with the advent of agriculture and settled societies, approximately 5,000 to 7,000 years ago, but admit it may go back as far as 2 million years ago.”
            “What?!” Ginger’s face showed her instant outrage. “Why would women subject themselves to male domination?”
“The answer is a simple one, Ginger – Survival. Males were physically larger and stronger, and women understood that in order to survive, they must not only allow the domination and remain in their proper place, but hide their own immense power.”
“And this has been allowed to continue throughout all that time?”
Ixchel nodded. “The consolidation of male power continued throughout millennia, and deepened over time, as well as the continued subordination of women in most countries around the world.”
            “Most? But not every country?”
            “Yes. Many countries are correcting that long-held male domination, while others had originally formed a matriarchal society, or one that perfectly balances the two, but much more needs to happen to correct the situation. Matriarchy does not seek to subordinate men, but balance both Divine Feminine and Masculine energies.”
            “How would we do that?”
            “There are lots of ways, Precious Child. Take time each day for self-reflection, meditation or breathwork. Which energy traits feel the strongest in your body? For example, regardless of your gender, if you realize that your energies are predominantly feminine, you can take the time to work on those aspects of masculine energy to better balance yourself. And, if you realize that your energies are predominantly masculine, you can take the time to work on those aspects of feminine energy to put you back into balance. Remember, both energies are equally needed.”
            “It’s a good practice to keep a daily journal and just talk to yourself or any of us in the spirit world, for we are always available for such conversation. Ask a question, sit quietly, and listen. It may take practice and Trust, but you will find the answers you seek. You will also learn a great deal about not only you, but your energies in doing this practice.”
            “Make an intention each day for what energies you wish to strengthen, and remind yourself throughout the day of that intention. Today, I want to work on strengthening my masculine energies by being more decisive. Or, Today, I want to concentrate on strengthening my feminine energies by being more nurturing. Keep them simple. And each evening, take a moment to celebrate your progress.”
            “These are only a handful of suggestions, but they should help you better integrate your Divine Feminine and Divine Masculine energies.” Ixchel paused. “And now, I must take my leave, Ginger, but I have so enjoyed our conversation.”
            Ginger’s eyes filled with tears. “How can I ever thank you for all you’ve given me, Goddess? What can I do to thank you?”
            “Continue to be Ginger. You are on a sacred quest, and you’ve already undergone much transformation, but the core of you – the Ginger soul of you – remains pure. Use that purity and your great power to change the world. Blast out Unconditional Love and Compassion to not only all of humanity, but to Goddess Gaia. Should you decide to take on another lifetime, I wouldn’t be surprised if you take on the life form of of a powerful woman, helping to balance your planet in order to raise Collective Consciousness. You and I have lots of work ahead of us, and if you wish, we’ll joyfully do it together: the Goddess of Light and the Goddess of Ginger!”
Ixchel turned to Ginger and embraced her. “Love and Compassion will show you the way,” she whispered.
Ginger’s body, mind and soul, lit up within the hug, and Ginger knew she would miss this extraordinary being. “Goodbye, Goddess. I will do as you ask.”
            Next, Ixchel turned to Barachiel, and embraced her. “Goodbye for now, dear friend. I have no doubt that we will soon meet again. I send you Love and Compassion, as well.”
            Barachiel held the goddess at arms’ length for a long moment. “Goodbye, dear friend. I, too, know we will meet again soon. I love you.”
            The Ancient Mayan Goddess Ixchel, placed her hands on her heart, gazed at her beloved ocean, and within a heartbeat, vanished.
            Ginger knew her time on the island was quickly drawing to an end. She, too, lifted her eyes to the ocean, wondering why she was so drawn to it. Closing her eyes, she sent Love to the ocean and all of its beautiful beings. To her amazement, she felt the ocean return it to her. She opened her eyes just in time to see a magnificent dolphin breach the waves right in front of her. She gasped, overwhelmed with the Love sent to her, and looked at Barachiel with questioning eyes.
            “You will understand at some point of our quest, dear one. Trust.”
            And with a small whooshing sound, Barachiel, Ginger and Cozumel Island disappeared.

(Excerpted from Barachiel, The Archangel Chronicles © Marty Boyle 2025. All Rights Reserved.)

https://www.martyboyle.com

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