Hillman, Jung, and von Franz: ​The Force of Destiny A 4-Day Hybrid Conference in Stonington, Connecticut

Plato once said that our destiny is written on a letter, descending on us from the heavens. However, as this comes ever closer to us, the words suddenly become invisible. He went on to use the words destiny and pattern interchangeably and - similar to Hillman, Jung, von Franz and others - suggests that an intimation of our destiny is contained in the patterns of our life. But if it were only so easy to discern the nature of this destiny!

Robert Louis Stevenson explained that, “In each of us, two natures are at war..." and perhaps we must acknowledge the presence of a destiny given by the Self, and an often troubled fated life of our complexes, which all too often take us from the life we are meant to live. To understand this “war within” makes all the difference between a life driven by fate and a life of destiny.

The need to understand this Self and to know what we are meant to be, is woven into human nature. This search has taken many forms throughout history. Following in the footsteps of the ancients and sages we continue to look towards the heavens and our dreams for an intimation of this destiny.

In literature, fairy tales, and cinema - and, yes, in our own life too - we often experience what is referred to as the false bride and false groom. In time, and upon reflection, we become painfully aware of the many losses resulting from our archetypal marriage to such a doomed coniunctio. Fortunately, however, the Self continues to provide the eternal possibility of hope, guiding us towards the life we are meant to live, regardless of past transgressions or age.

With an internationally acclaimed guest faculty of Jungian analysts, writers, artists and scholars this Conference will address ways to discern the difference between fate and destiny. So too we will consider how a fated life can be transformed into a profoundly meaningful destiny, and to understand the courage needed to accept the life that opens onto this path.

We hope that you will join us for this four-day hybrid event held in Stonington, Connecticut, one of the most beautiful coastal towns in America.