Day: August 24, 2011

Lady A’s Spell of the Day for 8/24 – A Simple Warding

A WARDING

Ingredients:

None

The following is an easy warding ritual for your home or just one room.

You must admit that there are those who would use magic in unwise ways.

A simple way I’ve found of dealing with such attempts is to ward a room you work in, or your home.
It is similar to casting a circle except that it is as permanent as you want it to be.
Be sure that you won’t be disturbed while casting the ward or you will have to start over.
Nothing is required to do this but you may use any props necessary to make you more comfortable.

After ensuring you won’t be disturbed, ground and center (use any form you wish, this is a very adaptable ritual). Cast your circle, using the walls as the four Quarters (again use whatever method you are most comfortable with). After the circle is cast you will do something similar to circle casting.
Invoke the Quarters again this time asking for protection of the area being warded against all negative influences from being able to ever enter the area involved.
As you invoke each Quarter visualize a wall of energy completely covering the wall involved sealed by a floor to ceiling pentacle. On the wall/s with a door visualize a smaller version of the energy wall and pentacle so that entering and leaving will not affect the integrity of the working.

After each wall, the floor, and the ceiling are sealed be sure to cleanse the area to ensure that no negativity was trapped inside the room (any method is acceptable).
When done thank the Quarters for their help and dismiss them.

Saint of the Day for August 24 is St. Elizabeth Ann Seton

St. Elizabeth Ann Seton

Elizabeth Bayley Seton was the first native born American to be canonized by the Catholic Church.

Born two years before the American Revolution, Elizabeth grew up in the “cream” of New York society. She was a prolific reader, and read everything from the Bible to contemporary novels.

In spite of her high society background, Elizabeth’s early life was quiet, simple, and often lonely. As she grew a little older, the Bible was to become her continual instruction, support and comfort; she would continue to love the Scriptures for the rest of her life.

In 1794, Elizabeth married the wealthy young William Seton, with whom she was deeply in love. The first years of their marriage were happy and prosperous. Elizabeth wrote in her diary at first autumn, “My own home at twenty-the world-that and heaven too-quite impossible.”

This time of Elizabeth’s life was to be a brief moment of earthly happiness before the many deaths and partings she was to suffer. Within four years, Will’s father died, leaving the young couple in charge of Will’s seven half brothers and sisters, as well as the family’s importing business. Now events began to move fast – and with devastating effect. Both Will’s business and his health failed. He was finally forced to file a petition of bankruptcy. In a final attempt to save Will’s health, the Setons sailed for Italy, where Will had business friends. Will died of tuberculosis while in Italy. Elizabeth’s one consolation was that Will had recently awakened to the things of God.

The many enforced separations from dear ones by death and distance, served to draw Elizabeth’s heart to God and eternity. The accepting and embracing of God’s will – “The Will,” as she called it – would be a keynote in her spiritual life.

Elizabeth’s deep concern for the spiritual welfare of her family and friends eventually led her into the Catholic Church.

In Italy, Elizabeth captivated everyone by her own kindness, patience, good sense, wit and courtesy. During this time Elizabeth became interested in the Catholic Faith, and over a period of months, her Italian friends guided her in Catholic instructions.

Elizabeth’s desire for the Bread of Life was to be a strong force leading her to the Catholic Church.

Having lost her mother at an early age, Elizabeth felt great comfort in the idea that the Blessed Virgin was truly her mother. She asked the Blessed Virgin to guide her to the True Faith. Elizabeth finally joined the Catholic Church in 1805.

At the suggestion of the president of St. Mary’s College in Baltimore, Maryland, Elizabeth started a school in that city. She and two other young women, who helped her in her work, began plans for a Sisterhood. They established the first free Catholic school in America. When the young community adopted their rule, they made provisions for Elizabeth to continue raising her children.

On March 25, 1809, Elizabeth Seton pronounced her vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience, binding for one year. From that time she was called Mother Seton.

Although Mother Seton was now afflicted with tuberculosis, she continued to guide her children. The Rule of the Sisterhood was formally ratified in 1812. It was based upon the Rule St. Vincent de Paul had written for his Daughters of Charity in France. By 1818, in addition to their first school, the sisters had established two orphanages and another school. Today six groups of sisters trace their origins to Mother Seton’s initial foundation.

For the last three years of her life, Elizabeth felt that God was getting ready to call her, and this gave her joy. Mother Seton died in 1821 at the age of 46, only sixteen years after becoming a Catholic. She was canonized on September 14, 1975.

THINK ON THESE THINGS

THINK ON THESE THINGS
By Joyce Sequichie Hifler

Chief Standing Bear talked of his Lakota people. He said they loved to worship and the contact was immediate and personal and that blessings flowed over them like rain showered from the sky.

Can worship really produce such blessings? Indeed, yes. Indian people were born to believe and they have long proved that the “vanishing Americans so much high talk that came to nothing.

To the Indian, Spirit is not aloof, not a figment of the imagination but real life and real power. How sad that lukewarm attitudes silence those who do not want to be known as religious. It is not religion at all, but faith, Spirit, and something to rely on when life goes dry.

*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*

Available online! ‘Cherokee Feast of Days’
By Joyce Sequichie Hifler.

Elder’s Meditation of the Day – August 24

Elder’s Meditation of the Day – August 24

“The mind’s eye changes the way we judge things.”

–Fools Crow, LAKOTA

“What you see is what you get.” Our head has inside it a movie projector that projects out from our foreheads and shines on a screen a picture of our true thoughts. This is our reality. We can only see what we project (our beliefs). If we believe someone is a jerk, every time we see them we reflect our beliefs about what we think about that person and that is all we can see. Even if someone tells us this person is a kind, loving, caring, intelligent individual, we wouldn’t be able to see it. If we change our belief about them, that person will change and so will our judgment about that person.

My Creator, let me realize the power of choice. Let me see the advantages of changing my beliefs. Today, if I am judging my brother, let me change my beliefs to acceptance. If my thoughts are of anger, let me change them to love. Let my eyes only see you in everything and every person.

*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*

August 24 – Daily Feast

August 24 – Daily Feast

 

Nothing saves the day so much as a good word. And nothing has been misused as often. There is power in a word, whether we read it, speak it or hear it. And we command and are commanded by the word. We scatter, we call forth, and we comfort. Words are tools, weapons, both good and bad medicine – but very beautiful when used lovingly. The word, or ka ne tsv in Cherokee, is power to help heal, or make sick people sicker by negative talk around them. The word gives confidence when it builds rather than destroys. Relationships have been shattered beyond repair by a runaway mouth. Prosperity has been dissolved by talking lack. Until we listen to our own voices and how we talk, we would never guess how we use our words.

~ I am opening my heart to speak to you….open yours to receive my words. ~

COMO

“A Cherokee Feast of Days” by Joyce Sequichie Hifler

*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*<<<=-=>>>*

 

Today’s I Ching Hexagram for August 24 is 48: The Well

48: The Well

Hexagram 48

General Meaning: Throughout various cultures and political systems of the world, the well has served as a universal symbol for that which sustains life and provides a constant, inexhaustible source of life-giving nourishment for mankind.

Like the well, human nature is the same around the world. The passage of time does not change its essential dimensions, nor take anything away. Still, just as a well can be deepened to produce clearer, cleaner water, so can we enrich our lives by delving deeply within — into our natural selves, or souls.

Beware of shallow thinking. Like a little learning, it can be dangerous. The image of the well suggests that along with depth comes clarity. Be patient, and penetrate both your problems and your own nature to the core. If you do not lower your bucket to the depths, you’re very likely to come up empty. When greater depth is desired, a lessening of speed is often required.

Your Daily Number for August 24: 5

Today could herald a change in career or responsibilities. You’re dynamic and ready for change. Unexpected events, such as travel, may be necessary. This is a social day. Be sure to guard against a lack of self-discipline.

Fast Facts

About the Number 5

Theme: Resourceful, Adventure, Speculation, Travel
Astro Association: Taurus
Tarot Association: Hierophant

Today’s Runes for Wednesday, August 24 is Hagalaz

Today’s Runes

Ice Runes are most commonly used for questions about struggle, conflict, and achievement. Hagalaz is the rune of hail. Hail is a destructive and elemental force, so one can expect this rune to represent the disruption of one’s life. In the harsh northern winter there is a halt to activity, and so delay or hindrance is frequently associated with this rune. The opposite of chaos is yet more chaos, as illustrated by the fact that this rune cannot be reversed.

Today’s Tarot Card for August 24 is The Star

The Star

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

This Tarot Deck: Celestial

General Meaning: What has traditionally been known as the Star card is about reconnecting one’s Soul with the Divine — the transcending of personality, family, community and reputation. It has to do ultimately with the freedom to be one’s Self. The Soul is responding to celestial influences — forces that can provide the personality with a stronger sense of purpose. The Star card helps us to remember our exalted origins and our attraction to a Higher Union.

This card could also be called the “Celestial Mandate” — that which refers us back to our reason for being, our mission in this lifetime. The Star reminds us that, in a sense, we are agents of Divine Will in our day-to-day lives. If we let go of the idea that we are supposed to be in control, we can more easily notice and appreciate the synchronicities that are nudging us along. In this way, we become more conscious of the invisible Helping Hand, and we better understand our place within — and value to — the larger Cosmos

Daily Horoscopes for Wednesday, August 24

The Moon swims into watery Cancer at 6:30 am EDT, reminding us of the power of our feelings. The Moon is at home in Cancer, yet today our emotions can be so overwhelming that we may not be able to express them in words. Harsh lunar aspects make us susceptible to mood changes that others can easily perceive. Meanwhile, a quincunx from likeable Venus to radical Uranus encourages us to try new things, even if we’re not satisfied with the outcome.

 

Aries Horoscope
Aries Horoscope (Mar 21 – Apr 19)

You may be so aware of your shortcomings today that your self-doubt negatively impacts your ability to have fun. In fact, you might not even be interested in joining the party now. Don’t waste time worrying about anyone else’s judgments. Just be as clear as possible about your boundaries when you tell your friends that you would rather stay home and have some quiet time by yourself. Nurturing yourself first will enable you to be more considerate of others later.

Taurus Horoscope
Taurus Horoscope (Apr 20 – May 20)

You have something important to do at work today, but you don’t necessarily want everyone to know about it. Unfortunately, it’s difficult to make enough time because you’re probably busier than you prefer, and you won’t be able to change your schedule until you meet your obligations. Others are expecting a lot from you, so do the best you can to deliver what you promised.

Gemini Horoscope
Gemini Horoscope (May 21 – Jun 20)

You wish that your emotions would settle down, but it’s too soon to breathe a sigh of relief because there’s still a bit of rough water for you to swim through. You need to make sure that you put your priorities straight now and communicate your needs to those around you. You might not receive the support you want right away, but your gentle persistence should pay off by the weekend after Mercury turns direct. Have patience; there are better days ahead.

Cancer Horoscope
Cancer Horoscope (June 21 – Jul 22)

You sea-dwelling Crabs are exceptionally sensitive to the lunar cycles, and you have a lot on your mind now as the Moon visits your self-protective sign. You might feel overly vulnerable today because it appears that others know something about you that you thought was a secret. Nevertheless, you can’t just hide inside your shell once you’ve already been seen. Thankfully, those who love you won’t be deterred by your resistance.

Leo Horoscope
Leo Horoscope (Jul 23 – Aug 22)

You could have a bit of repair work to do in a personal relationship, but unfortunately, knowing what went wrong is not the same thing as being able to fix it. Thankfully, your good intentions can go a long way today. Don’t be hard on yourself if you can’t meet someone else’s expectations. You aren’t responsible for how others feel; just stay focused on love, without needing to know where it will take you.

Virgo Horoscope
Virgo Horoscope (Aug 23 – Sep 22)

You may be spending a lot of time rethinking your goals and trying to figure out a way to create the life of your dreams. Although you’re growing tired of mentally living in the future, nostalgia isn’t healthy now either. Stop worrying about yesterday and tomorrow; methodically keep bringing your focus back to the here-and-now. You’ll be happier once you commit to staying in the present moment.

Libra Horoscope
Libra Horoscope (Sep 23 – Oct 22)

You want to maintain your objectivity today while other people attempt to tug on your heartstrings and activate your emotional attachments. Rationally, you know it’s wise to avoid intimate interactions now that could reveal your vulnerability. However, your feelings are not ruled by your logic, so you might as well just give yourself permission to be human and experience the pleasure and pain of irrational passion.

Scorpio Horoscope
Scorpio Horoscope (Oct 23 – Nov 21)

You can see far into the distance now that the Moon is visiting your 9th House of Faraway Places. Your view of the future is vastly different from what you expected because everything is so much clearer now. But this can be tricky, for it’s not about anything that’s out there. Your inner world is currently more accessible to you, allowing you an additional level of clarity. Just remember that you’re the creator of your fantasies, and it’s still up to you to make them come true.

Sagittarius Horoscope
Sagittarius Horoscope (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

You aren’t as comfortable today as the Moon wades through your emotionally complex 8th house. You might choose to engage in a competitive sport, participate in exciting outdoor activities or simply head out on an adventure to parts unknown. Nevertheless, you have a much different kind of exciting drama waiting for you when you explore the feelings you want to share with someone special. Don’t let your fears prevent you from discovering the treasures of love.

Capricorn Horoscope
Capricorn Horoscope (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

A good friend might need your assistance today — or, at least, that is how it appears. But you aren’t one to go rescuing an underdog unless you can clearly rationalize what you are doing. However, you are far from being cold-hearted; it’s just that your practicality can now stand in the way of a kinder and gentler type of love, if you let it. Sometimes there are intangible rewards for helping others that are well worth your altruistic efforts.

Aquarius Horoscope
Aquarius Horoscope (Jan 20 – Feb 18)

It’s hard to feel at ease today because it seems as if someone is blocking your efforts. Your reaction has nothing to do with paranoia; it’s just that you prefer avoiding unnecessary disappointment and pain that might follow you around if you lower your protective walls. Don’t do anything that could possibly add to your stress. Just pay close attention to where your heart leads you now.

Pisces Horoscope
Pisces Horoscope (Feb 19 – Mar 20)

You would be wise to temporarily set aside your responsibilities for a bit today, even if they continue to pile up in your absence. Your psychic powers are quite strong now, enabling you to know what others want, even if nothing is spoken out loud. Put your extraordinary abilities to work by helping someone who can benefit from your compassionate assistance.

the daily humorscopes for wednesday, august 24

the daily humorscope 

Wednesday, August 24, 2011

 
 
Aries (March 21 – April 19)
A man wearing two left shoes and a shirt with only one sleeve will approach you today, and try to interest you in a no-load mutual fund. Trust him — he knows what he’s doing.
Taurus (April 20 – May 20)
People are starting to take you a bit too seriously. Try wearing your bunny slippers to work.
Gemini (May 21 – June 20)
As a joke, you should put an 8-foot-tall mucous-covered “egg” in your friend’s basement. Then, when he or she goes down to do a load of laundry…
Cancer (June 21 – July 22)
You will discover a secret about the Spice Girls – most of them can’t tell Cumin from Coriander. In fact, some of them are vague about whether Black and Red Pepper come from different types of plants. You will quite sensibly decide to avoid going to their place for dinner.
Leo (July 23 – August 22)
You will come across a matchbook that will change your life. Inside the cover it will say “You too can be a criminal mastermind!”
Virgo (August 23 – September 22)
Excellent day for a bubble bath. If you don’t have a little yellow rubber ducky, you’ll need to get that first, of course.
Libra (September 23 – October 22)
Despite having a brilliant mind and a lot of terrific friends, you find yourself stagnating in a quiet backwater, with financial success nowhere in sight. You will go into business for yourself, however, making frozen Piroshki based on your grandmother’s recipe, and will become rich and famous. Your grandmother will thwap you with her umbrella.
Scorpio (October 23 – November 21)
Nothing especially remarkable will happen today. You will get a strange urge to talk like Ziggy Marley, but it will pass.
Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21)
You will have a trifle too much punch at a party this week, and will amuse the other guests by flopping around on the floor an making “Ark! Ark!” sounds. But who cares? If they want to be stuffy, let ’em, I say.
Capricorn (December 22 – January 20)
You must seize the opportunity that presents itself today, no matter what the consequences may be. Remember: opportunity knocks but once, and absolutely refuses to ring the doorbell.
Aquarius (January 21 – February 18)
You’ve been trying to sell your car, and it just isn’t going anywhere. Sometimes it helps if you have a name for your vehicle, to give it more character. I call mine the “Millenium Falcon”. My passengers often become irritated at being called “Chewie”, though.
Pisces (February 19 – March 20)
You’ve got to learn to slow down. You’re driving yourself and everyone around you crazy. Just pretend that your life is a Prince Valiant comic strip.