Day: January 24, 2011

Daily OM – Finding Our Own Paths

Finding Our Own Paths
Entering Awareness

We all enter the arena of awareness differently, it doesn’t matter how we get there or how long it takes.

Entering into our own spirituality is a private journey. Each of us will be drawn to a different gateway to begin on our personal path to awakening to a greater experience of ourselves. Even though we may be taught certain philosophies or beliefs as children, we still need to find our own way of understanding and applying them in our lives. For those who are raised without a spiritual framework, they may not even know their process as a form of spirituality. But at some stage in their lives, whether in youth or adulthood, they are likely to recognize the resonance of their beliefs, the ring of truth in their philosophy, and their dedication to their chosen purpose.

Our inner guidance will lead us, so that we will be drawn to the right doorway for us–a doorway that only we can recognize by the way it makes us feel inside. It could be a picture of an angel or the gift of a crystal. We may meet someone special who shares their experiences with us in a way that we find intriguing. While visiting the home of an admired friend, we may notice a book or statue of a diety, and ask why they chose those tools. Or a word or phrase may catch our attention in a song, or a lecture. For some they may find their way by walking through the experience of illness before they begin the search for what will help them to truly heal, while others may seek physical improvement and stumble across yoga or meditation–only to find that it leads them to an unexpected place beyond the body.

As we awaken to ourselves and to life, we will become more attuned to what is right for us. The universe speaks to all of us through infinite channels, but we each have our own frequency. Others may share what worked for them, but only we can decide what truly makes us feel inspired, awakened, connected, fully conscious, aware and alive. Whatever our path, it is perfect and is meant especially for us.

The WALK-IN movie is now

The Sky

The Sky

   Spreads like an ocean hung on high,
Bespangled with those isles of light
   So wildly, spiritually bright.
Who ever gazed upon them shining,
   And turned to earth without repining,
Nor wished for wings to flee away,
   And mix with their eternal ray?

 – Byron.

Daily Goddess Devotion

Daily Goddess Devotion

Children hear my heart; allow yourselves to receive my gifts of love and light. For once you can receive my spirit with trust you can give freely unto others. When you can give freely, you will receive in abundance.

Lady Abigail
Copyright © 01222011

Runecast for Monday January 24

This morning it’s Hagalaz of Heimdall’s Aett Hagalaz pronounced “haw-gaw-laws” (H: Wrath of nature) Wrath of nature, destructive, uncontrolled forces, especially the weather, or within the unconscious. Tempering, testing, trial. Controlled crisis, leading to completion, inner harmony.

The shoots in the field are destroyed by hailstones. The farmer is forced to change his plans. Disruption. Separation from old ideas. You have probably grown too attached to other people’s plans and intentions. You have your own path in life and even if you have lost something which seemed important in the past, there is no reason to turn back and attempt to restore a situation as it was. Take what happened as a fact which can’t be changed and continue your way in new circumstances. Then your loss will appear as a gain and you’ll become free of past baggage which has no place in your future. Your present freedom may frighten you but it also gives you new possibilities which you couldn’t have even imagined before. 

Hagalaz Merkstave (Hagalaz cannot be reversed, but may lie in opposition): Natural disaster, catastrophe. Stagnation, loss of power. Pain, loss, suffering, hardship, sickness, crisis. (Note: the reversed or merkstave definitions are included only for reference as they apply to a multi-rune cast and not to a single rune that’s drawn blind from the pouch)

As with all, take only what feels right to you and disregard the rest.

**a portion of today’s rune meaning/description was kindly provided by Ingrid Halvorsen at sunnyway.com and used here with her gracious permission**

In the Light…

Tom

SoulDiscoveryThruReiki
“Music is a release from the tyranny of conscious thought”
— Kevin Burke
Insanity is inherited, you get it from your kids…

Today’s I Ching Hexagram for 1/24

Today’s I Ching Hexagram for Everyone:

45: Coming Together

Monday, January 24th, 2011

Hexagram 45
General Meaning: The power of gathering together is represented by a rally, where each individual’s strength is magnified by the power of their community. History has shown that mass movements can bring about stable, ordered and durable conditions for the better. This hexagram may be pointing to an auspicious time for large undertakings. But the guiding force of your shared vision is essential to hold the forces of unity together, and keep them advancing toward a common goals and values.

Another image for this situation is that of a lake filling with water. Just as the fullness of the lake can bring good fortune to all in its sphere, it can also overflow, leading to calamity. Thus in a time of gathering together it is essential that precautions against excesses be considered along with efforts to advance along a clearly-charted course. Much of human misfortune comes from unexpected events for which we are ill prepared; when gathered together with others, we are both more powerful and, in some ways, also more vulnerable.

Any time of unified coming together is a time of great potential. But the potential can be both positive and negative. Everything is magnified when people unite around a central shared purpose. When many people unite behind a single goal or strong vision, it is wise to take personal precautions to protect your own reasonable self-interests, because these can easily be lost in the crowd.

Today’s Tarot Card for 1/24

Today’s Tarot Card for Everyone:

The Empress

This Tarot Deck: Crowley

General Meaning: Traditionally entitled “Empress,” this major arcana or “trump” card portrays the energy of the Great Mother. She is Nature, around us but also within us, the ever-unfolding Source of life-giving power. She is often pictured as a pre-Christian Goddess, as the one whom the High Priestess is channeling down to earth for the rest of us.

In medieval Europe, the Empress card was painted to represent whatever Queen currently ruled the land, probably to satisfy the Inquisitors. But the scholars of the Renaissance and beyond had no doubt of her true identity, although she could not be fully revealed on Tarot cards as the “woman clothed with the sun” until after the French Revolution.

This supreme archetype of femininity also symbolizes fertility. It is She who provides us nourishment and security. She is also sometimes seen as delighting us with flowers and fruit. A potentially terrifying aspect of this archetype manifests itself whenever karmic mood swings wipe out our plans, like a storm that has come upon us. Whatever happens, the Empress is the Source of our Embodiment and of Natural Law. She might even be called “the Great Recycler.”

General Daily Horoscopes for 1/24

 

General Daily Horoscope

 

Today’s diplomatic Libra Moon enables us to see life through an objective lens. However, the Moon’s harsh aspects to demanding Pluto, interactive Mercury and stern Saturn reveals where we can fall short of our fair-minded intentions. But we are balanced enough to see the benefits of the opposing viewpoints, rather than favoring one side over the other. Meanwhile, we initiate action as the Moon’s easy trine to assertive Mars boosts our confidence.

 

Aries Horoscope
Aries Horoscope (Mar 21 – Apr 19)

You are eager to go along with your friends today. Luckily, it’s quite easy for you to set aside your own agenda while doing what makes the most sense for everyone involved. But you must take the time to figure out where others stand. Trusting them with your fate is difficult if your anxiety grows out of hand.

 

Taurus Horoscope
Taurus Horoscope (Apr 20 – May 20)

Establishing a new schedule for your diet and exercise routine can be tricky if you’re secretly satisfied with your current state of affairs. However, today you may be more certain about what you want, yet still find it hard to motivate yourself to change. Gathering more information isn’t necessary, for you probably already know enough. Anything you do now can lead to an improvement in your physical well-being, so take action while it counts.

 

Gemini Horoscope
Gemini Horoscope (May 21 – Jun 20)

You might think that everything will roll your way today, but the logistics become more difficult as time goes on. Even if it seems like there’s a lot of fun just around the next corner, you can’t think about playtime until you’ve handled your responsibilities. Fortunately, once you’re finished with all your obligations, you’re game for just about anything. Work extra hard so you have time to pursue something more pleasurable later on.

 

Cancer Horoscope
Cancer Horoscope (June 21 – Jul 22)

It’s good news that you’re feeling so flexible today because you may need to change your plans more than once. Domestic tension is building and you could be asked to step in and mediate a family disagreement. But the current problem isn’t necessarily about someone being right and someone else being wrong. Concentrate your efforts on helping everyone reach common ground, even if your perspectives still differ on a fundamental issue.

 

Leo Horoscope
Leo Horoscope (Jul 23 – Aug 22)

You are ready to manage a complex interaction with conflicting groups of people today. Although each is stoically holding on to different sets of interests, your intervention could be enough to shift the entire situation. On another day, you might be inclined to just give up and let it all play out on its own. Fortunately, you can maintain control now while still appearing as if you don’t have your hands on the steering wheel.

 

Virgo Horoscope
Virgo Horoscope (Aug 23 – Sep 22)

Instead of questioning a recent decision, accept your previous judgment as being logically sound. It’s already past the time to consider whether or not to proceed. You have moved beyond the point of no return, even if you’re still experiencing some self-doubt. Instead of questioning your choices again and again, consciously shift your attention from the inner realms toward taking the next steps on your journey.

 

Libra Horoscope
Libra Horoscope (Sep 23 – Oct 22)

Don’t worry about making a final decision today; instead use your current uncertainty to express yourself in a creative manner. Sometimes it’s important to demonstrate your leadership style by behaving with clear certainty, but now you will be appreciated even more if you are honest about your crisis of confidence. Be open and take whatever time is necessary to share your concerns rather than just leaving everyone in the dark.

 

Scorpio Horoscope
Scorpio Horoscope (Oct 23 – Nov 21)

You are often tempted to sink into the recesses of your own subconscious mind. On occasion these journeys within are overwhelming and can pull you into deep waters that completely engulf you. Today, however, you are able to dance around the edges of the shadows with ease as the Moon travels through your 12th House of Imagination. Thankfully, you can glide through this phase if you don’t make a big deal out of anything right now.

 

Sagittarius Horoscope
Sagittarius Horoscope (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

You may find yourself in a power struggle when dealing with friends today. However, some relationships can be positively impacted by the social Libra Moon’s visit to your 11th House of Groups, where it alleviates some of the pressure you are under. It doesn’t matter how you feel right now; just keep meeting your professional commitments with integrity and don’t worry about coming out on top.

 

Capricorn Horoscope
Capricorn Horoscope (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

Leading by example is especially challenging if you continue to change your mind from minute to minute. It’s difficult to trust your decisions today, even if you have all the supporting data that you need to justify your choices. But don’t get hung up trying to answer any one particular question. Just respond to the best of your current ability and be ready to move on.

 

Aquarius Horoscope
Aquarius Horoscope (Jan 20 – Feb 18)

You seem more intense now as the Sun in your sign travels along with feisty Mars. The Sun-Mars combo is in eccentric Aquarius, receiving support from the Moon in fellow Air sign, Libra. However, you could also feel dreamier than usual, as if your fleeting whims have freed themselves by detaching from the weight of your body. Be bold and take action as needed; just remember that karmic Saturn will judge you harshly today if you believe that escape through fantasy is a viable option.

 

Pisces Horoscope
Pisces Horoscope (Feb 19 – Mar 20)

You still have a bit of magic up your sleeve today, and luckily it will be there when you need it most. Even if you are required to deal with powerful people who might be investing in your business, there’s no reason to be intimidated. Just stay present with your truth, for maintaining your integrity sets the stage for managing serious issues that will demand resolution in the near future.

Meditation Thought for 1/24

Monday 24 January 2011

Most of us are here chasing after Buddhahood.
Yet Buddhahood is how you deal with
your boss or your child, your lover
or your partner, whoever.
Our life is always absolute: that’s all there is.
The truth is not somewhere else.

Joko

Blowing In The Wind In the Wiccan Tradition, Air is the Element of the East and might be represented on an altar by incense, feathers or an athame. It can be as soft as a whispered breath and as violent as a tornado, so it isn’t an Element to be taken lightly. It should come as no surprise that particularly persistent winds have even been given names—the Scirocco winds in the Mediterranean and the Santa Ana winds on the United States West Coast, for example. When these winds blow, they can literally change people’s temperaments and often fan wild fires. When mixed with another power Element, Water, Air can produce a fury we call hurricanes. But Air is a necessary and benevolent Element, too. Without even thinking about it, we use our breath to blow out candles, sing songs of celebration and whisper secrets. How often have you “stepped out for a breath of fresh air”? Used during meditation and to alleviate the pains of childbirth, the Element of Air is healing and vital.

Blowing In The Wind
 
 
In the Wiccan Tradition, Air is the Element of the East and might be represented on an altar by incense feathers or an athame. It can be as soft as a whispered breath and as violent as a tornado, so it isn’t an Element to be taken lightly. It should come as no surprise that particularly persistent winds have even been given names—the Scirocco winds in the Mediterranean and the Santa Ana winds on the United States West Coast, for example. When these winds blow, they can literally change people’s temperaments and often fan wild fires. When mixed with another power Element, Water, Air can produce a fury we call hurricanes.
 
But Air is a necessary and benevolent Element, too. Without even thinking about it, we use our breath to blow out candles, sing songs of celebration and whisper secrets. How often have you “stepped out for a breath of fresh air”? Used during meditation and to alleviate the pains of childbirth, the Element of Air is healing and vital.

Attributes of Air

Attributes of Air
Abstract Learing
Creativity of Mind
Inuition
Intellect
Breath
Mental Powers
Towers
Rules of Mind
Thought
Visions
Ideologies
Ideas
Wind
Imagination
Physic Powers
Wisdom
Peaks
Theory
Windswept Hills
Plains
High Mountains
Knowledge

THE BELL

THE BELL
 
 
Bells have been around for many years, they come in different shapes and sizes, as well as different tones and sounds. The most popular bell in the US is the liberty bell. Another popular bell is the Notre Dame bell found France. It is a wonder why we like these bell. It might just be the rhythmic sound and vibrations. People have been singing songs and carols about this beautiful instruments for years, that might just be why there are associated with winter holidays. The bell also has magical associations. It has been believed for centuries to possess a magical and/or spiritual power. They are associated with the divine: their sound is symbolic of creative power, their shape a symbol of the female force and celestial vault. The bell is an uncommon tool. Yet, once you use it in a ritual, you might just feel the need to keep using it. There is no one way to use the bell, use your imagination! Here are a few ideas; you can use it to open and close the sacred circle, Invoke the Goddess, ring to ward off negative energies (as well as invite positive energies ), or use it to signal different sections of a ritual and/or Sabbat. But most of all have fun, create your own rituals using the bell! (bell thoughts submitted by Rain’)

THE CAULDRON

THE CAULDRON
 
One of the most common symbols of Witchcraft, the cauldron was once found sitting by the fireplace in almost all homes. The cauldron-traditionally with three legs- represents bounty and blessings. In some Celtic Traditions, it is associated with otherworldly figures such as Bran the Blessed and the Goddess Cerridwen. Based on these myths, the cauldron has also come to represent the concept of reincarnation and the cycles of birth, death and rebirth. Many Witches believe in some form of reincarnation or the transmigration of souls.
Cauldrons can be used to represent water and used for scrying. It is sometimes used in association with elemental fire as well and small “bonfires” can be lit in them to burn spells or incense. Jumping over the cauldron has replaced the “bonfire” leap in modern times and urban spaces. It can, depending on intent and use, be placed in the Female West or Male South. Cauldrons range in size from the small altar models to the antique “floor” type. Many Witches have cauldrons in various sizes for different workings and purposes. Cats like to store their toys in them, too!

THE CHALICE

THE CHALICE
 
The chalice or cup is used on the altar to represent the Female principle of Water. Another chalice or cauldron is sometimes placed in the West as well.
The chalice along with the athame, sword or wand are the modern tools which are used in the enactment of the “Great Rite”-the union of the male and female principle from which Life will spring.
Chalices may be of any material. Many use silver or pewter (be careful with untreated metals when serving wine), but ceramic ones are now quite popular and readily obtainable. Some Witches have many different kinds for different types of rituals. Many a practitioner will avoid real “lead” crystal because of the Saturn energy influence.
The chalice is sometimes passed around the circle so each participant may take a sip from the cup. This is a bonding experience and often the words “May you never thirst!” are passed throughout the circle with the chalice.
Libations of wine or water are often then poured outside to honor the Old Ones and “sabbat” cakes are also offered back to the Source in a similar manner.

Consecrating Tools: Another Method

Consecrating Tools: Another Method
You may wish to concentrate you tools, although it is not necessary, as the Kitchen Witch knows.Supplies in addition to circle casting supplies:
Any tool you wish to consecrate
White candle for consecration flame

Cast your circle:
To consecrate the tools, the elementals may be used.

Pick up the wand, saying:
“I have chosen this wand to assist me in my work.”

Visualize the wand being cleared of any negativity, especially if it has had a previous owner. Continue till the wand feels clear to you. Now visualize positive energy flowing from you, down you arm and into the wand. Visualize a strong white light flowing through your body to the tool. Feel it absorb the positive energies. Touch it to the pentacle, saying:
” In the names of the Goddess and God (use any names you wish), I bless and make sacred this wand, tool of my craft. I charge this wand by the element of Earth.”

Point the wand towards the North, saying:
“May the powers of the Earth cleanse and fill the wand I have chosen.”

Pass the wand through the smoke of the incense, saying:
“In the names of the Goddess and God (use any names you wish), I bless and make sacred this wand, tool of my craft. I charge this wand by the element Air.”

Point the wand to the East, saying:
“May the powers of the Air cleanse and fill the wand I have chosen.”

Pass the wand through the candle flame, saying:
“In the names of the Goddess and God (using any names), I bless and make sacred this wand, tool of my craft. I charge this wand by the element Fire.”

Point the wand to the South, saying:
“May the powers of Fire cleanse and fill the wand I have chosen.”

Sprinkle the wand with water, saying:
“In the names of the Goddess and God (using any names), I bless and make sacred this wand, tool of my craft. I charge this wand by the element Water.”

Point the wand to the West, saying:
“May the powers of water cleanse and fill the wand I have chosen.”

“This tool is now ready, being consecrated and charged to assist me in my work. So mote it be.”

Perform other workings if you wish, then close the circle.

To consecrate, cleanse and charge other tools, substitute the word “wand” with the name of the chosen tool.

Starwood’s Making Your First Wand

Starwood’s Making Your First Wand

bySusan Baxter

Some feel the tools of magick must be made by some powerful person with more
knowledge than yourself. This just isn’t true. Making your own wand is the most
powerful thing you can do. making your own tools invests then with your
personal power and therefore will work better for you as from its’ conception
it is imbued with your vibrations, your energy, it is a part of you – a
familiar, if you will.

Choose a length of wood – I use tree branches that must be pruned anyway. I
like a 12 inch length about the thickness of my finger. When selecting the wood
I refer to the magickal vibrations of the different woods. I use apple for love
magick, seven barks for money magick, Elder for fairie magick, oak for nature
magick, willow for general magick.

You will want a quartz crystal point for the tip – you could use rose quartz
on the love wand or amethyst on a wand for spiritual contact and guidance.

Gouge a bit of wood out of the tip of the wand to help hold the crystal – glue
with high temp hot glue gun or a strong hold glue – let set.

Now use glue on bottom sides of crystal and top ionch or so of wood, wrap with
leather strips or cord or embroidery thread in a color that goes with the
purpose of the wand. That helps to secure the crystal. Now wrap the base end of
the wand by gluing wood and wrapping with leather or yarn to make a hand hold.
Use the same color as on top and cover about 4 inches.

You may decorate the shaft of the wand with symbols that relate to the purpose
of the wand, such as runes and other symbols that have meaning for you. You can
use a knife, water proof marker, paint, woodburning tool, etc.

You could decorate the end of the top yarn with gemstone beads, metalbeads,
wood beads and tip it with feathers if you like. Cleanse and consecrate as with
any tool.