Gemüt is a rich German word that resists single-word translation. It brings together heart, mind, soul, temperament, and disposition - the inner tone or coloring through which a person meets the world.  For Steiner, Gemüt is feeling-life when it becomes a stable, formative organ rather than a passing reaction. It is not feeling as event, but feeling as substance – something that can be filled, illumined, warmed, concentrated, given content, and streamed.

In his Exploring Anthroposophy course, Brian invites us to understand Gemüt through the meeting of loving warmth, thought, and imagination that welcomes and cultivates the presence of Michael.

There is something quietly encouraging in this picture. When we recognise and acknowledge the dragon nature within us, we can then draw upon the light and strength of Michael to subdue its power, gradually transforming our thoughts, feelings, and deeds. The words "out of a free resolution" emphasize personal responsibility and the possibility of transformation through conscious, freely chosen, inner resolve and decision. 

It may begin with a small deed: pausing before reacting, speaking honestly when it is difficult, or meeting another person with renewed care. Each offers an opportunity to bring our inner work into the life we share.
 

Perhaps we might carry a question into the Michaelmas season: When and where, in the circumstances of my own life, can I look more keenly for the luminous Angel whose cosmic task has always been to vanquish the Dragon?