Today’s Runes for Sept. 18th is Ken

Today’s Runes

Stone Runes are most commonly used for questions about the natural world and things beyond human control. Ken is the rune of light and knowledge, driving away darkness and ignorance and revealing hidden truth. This rune also brings forth images of friendship and comfort. Ken is the light of inspiration, the light of imagination, and a beacon in the darkest hours.

Today’s I Ching Hexagram for Sept. 18th – 61: Centering in Truth

61: Centering in Truth

Hexagram 61

General Meaning: Truth involves establishing an aware relationship between your inner core and the circumstances in your life. Centering in truth involves the ability to perceive a fundamental wisdom, reflected within yourself and the people you know.

Truth is transformed into power when you dissolve prejudice and make yourself receptive to the world as it really is. Truth’s power can be a remarkable force indeed — yet is rarer than generally imagined. It can be maintained only by cultivating a genuine openness to things as they are — a willingness to see, rather than merely look.

Whenever your inner life is clouded, your influence in the world is under a shadow. If you are fearful, you will be attacked; if you cloak genuine mysteries in dogma, opportunities for new insight will be lost. If you vacillate in upholding your principles, you will be tested. Yet, when you are firm and strong, the power of truth can break through even the most stubborn minds.

In any debate, the power to perceive the truth in the other side’s argument is essential to achieving success. It is possible to influence even the most difficult people, or improve the most difficult circumstance, through the power of universal truth — for unvarnished truth is something to which all things naturally respond. Get in touch with the part of yourself that is aware of this universal force. Cultivate this inner resource, and you will become adept at using it to bond with others to support a common purpose.

 

Today’s Tarot Card for September 18th is The Fool

The Fool

This Tarot Deck: Chinese

General Meaning: Pamela Coleman-Smith’s artful rendition of an “innocent Fool” archetype (Rider-Waite deck) is often used to represent Tarot in general. Early classical versions of the Fool card, however, portray quite a different character — a person driven by base needs and urges, who has fallen into a state of poverty and deprivation.

In some instances, he is made out to be a carnival entertainer or a huckster. In others, he is portrayed as decrepit and vulnerable — as the cumulative result of his delusions and failures. Not until the 20th century do you see the popular Rider-Waite image of the Fool arise — that of an innocent Soul before its Fall into Matter, as yet untainted by contact with society and all its ills.

Modern decks usually borrow from the Rider-Waite imagery. Most Fool cards copy the bucolic mountainside scene, the butterfly, the potential misplaced step that will send the Fool tumbling into the unknown. Don’t forget, however, that the earlier versions of this card represented already-fallen humanity, over-identified with the material plane of existence, and beginning a pilgrimage towards self-knowledge, and eventually, wisdom. The Fool reminds us to recognize the path of personal development within ourselves — and the stage upon that path where we find ourselves — in order to energize our movement toward deeper self-realization.

Daily Horoscopes for Sunday, Sept. 18th

We can change our minds on a whim today with the Moon’s shift into dualistic Gemini at 4:06 am EDT. Although this transit is normally lighthearted, today’s changeable Gemini Moon is countered by an intense square from needy Venus to passionate Pluto. One moment we are easygoing and the next we’re deep in an emotional drama. We are likely to build momentum when energetic Mars shifts into expressive Leo later in the evening.
Aries Horoscope
Aries Horoscope (Mar 21 – Apr 19)

You aren’t one to be threatened or pushed around, yet you might respond too strongly today when dealing with someone who seems to be on your case. Unfortunately, you probably don’t even realize how overbearing you can sound. Your smartest strategy is to downplay any emotions that may surface now so you don’t scare others away. Be gentle in your approach no matter how intense your feelings are in the moment.

Taurus Horoscope
Taurus Horoscope (Apr 20 – May 20)

Your ruling planet Venus dynamically squares relentless Pluto today, possibly creating discord in love or an argument over the control of finances. However, there may be more going on than is apparent and the real reason for conflict isn’t necessarily the obvious one. The current situation may actually be the designated playing field for a deeper issue. Keep in mind that there’s no reason to avoid what you don’t understand.

Gemini Horoscope
Gemini Horoscope (May 21 – Jun 20)

You know that sharing your uncomfortable feelings can act as a catalyst that transforms them into healthier expressions of your needs. But talking about psychological issues isn’t that simple, especially if you say one thing yet mean something else. You may think that you are being very clear, yet others may not understand what you’re trying to explain today. Nevertheless, taking the time now to connect with your friends in a deeper way enriches your relationships and brings you comfort.

Cancer Horoscope
Cancer Horoscope (June 21 – Jul 22)

You can see how someone special is engaging you in an intense process now that has the potential to transform who you really are. Your initial reaction could be to run, but a magnetic attraction keeps you connected, even if you think it’s not such a good idea. Although you attempt to set clear boundaries to protect yourself from losing control, you might be unhappily surprised to discover that you’re in deeper than you thought. Don’t withdraw; ultimately, the change will do you good.

Leo Horoscope
Leo Horoscope (Jul 23 – Aug 22)

You may realize that you’re in over your head as the fervent Venus-Pluto square raises the heat on a romance. You’re not feeling as casual as you expected; something is changing and you’re more inclined to play to win. Paradoxically, you may be simultaneously pulled toward a more metaphysical orientation to love. Don’t lose your perspective; be smart and maintain a healthy balance between a physical and spiritual approach to relationships.

Virgo Horoscope
Virgo Horoscope (Aug 23 – Sep 22)

Your strong feelings today bring up serious issues around your basic values. Differences seem insurmountable if you and your partner have divergent views. Attempts to convince the other person of his or her guilt are fruitless. Instead of pointing blame at anyone else, try a more cooperative approach now. Follow your dreams as they guide you along, while encouraging others to do the same.

Libra Horoscope
Libra Horoscope (Sep 23 – Oct 22)

There might be hidden truths that need to be spoken today. Or, maybe, someone is attempting to keep his or her true feelings secret behind a protective wall. Being intelligent and removing yourself from danger is always wise, but this situation is less about being safe than it is about fearful isolation. Fortunately, resourceful Venus is in your corner now, enabling you to calm down and figure out what makes the most sense. Your natural inclination to create harmony will set the right tone for an honest conversation.

Scorpio Horoscope
Scorpio Horoscope (Oct 23 – Nov 21)

You intend to honor your integrity as you strive to connect to a deeper set of emotions that were recently stirred. However, you are intelligent enough to realize that sharing your true feelings now is probably counterproductive. Sweet Venus squares domineering Pluto, indicating stress that arises from not knowing how much you should reveal. There’s no hurry; wait a few more days before climbing too far out on a limb.

Sagittarius Horoscope
Sagittarius Horoscope (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

You want to focus your attention on the intriguing adventures down the road, but you must first handle difficult feelings in the present moment. You might try to avoid directing your negativity at a loved one, or, maybe jealousy has sneaked in past your defenses and is now fueling a feud. You would prefer to take the high road, but denial won’t solve the underlying problems. Your friends might have good advice, but you will have to ask for their help before they’re willing to step in and give it.

Capricorn Horoscope
Capricorn Horoscope (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

You would like to be practical, yet circumstances can pull you into a heavy emotional stew today where nothing is clear. You could be annoyed with someone who pushes your buttons, but then won’t follow through with a constructive discussion. Even if you’re willing to talk about love, the key players may be at cross-purposes with one another. Don’t be overly concerned because the energies will shift significantly over the days ahead.

Aquarius Horoscope
Aquarius Horoscope (Jan 20 – Feb 18)

Everyone is taking you more seriously these days, yet you’re afraid this phase won’t last too much longer. Somehow you still can find the time to create an emotional drama with an intimate partner, especially if he or she thinks that your long-term plans are illogical. Be careful, because you could become obsessed with a current idea, even if it ultimately makes little sense. Listen to the advice you receive with a flexible mind and an open heart.

Pisces Horoscope
Pisces Horoscope (Feb 19 – Mar 20)

Your attraction to a loved one is complicated today by unexpressed negativity or by your belief that others are attempting to coerce you into agreeing with them. Fortunately, you are way too clever to be dominated by someone’s show of force now and you can quickly escape from the clutches of insecure emotions. Stay diligent; it will take a few more days until you’re able to put some time between you and your past.

New Moon Report for September 18th – Mars in Leo

Mars in Leo

Sunday, September 18, 6:51 pm PDT, 9:51 pm EDT

Fiery Mars feels at home in Leo where creativity, confidence and charisma abound. Yet these positive attributes may come at a price. Excessive pride or conceit can turn every act into a performance where spontaneity is inhibited by hunger for approval. Innocently enjoying self-expression with art, romance, fun and games balances the ego’s constant need for attention.

the daily humorscopes for sunday, sept. 18th

the daily humorscope 

Sunday, September 18, 2011

 
 
Aries (March 21 – April 19)
You will be intensely jealous of a rival today. Finally, you will realise that it isn’t doing you any good to be jealous, so you’ll switch over to envy.
Taurus (April 20 – May 20)
Don’t forget your towel, today. I usually find I’m less likely to forget things, if I wrap them around my head. Everyone has their own mnemonic tricks, though.
Gemini (May 21 – June 20)
You will hear screams coming from a Hungarian restaurant, while you are walking by. Don’t worry, though. That’s normal.
Cancer (June 21 – July 22)
You will go into business making those little sugar packets that restaurants use, and make a fortune. The restaurants will have to use fewer of yours than anyone else’s. Is it due to the pictures on the packets, of really fat people? Who knows.
Leo (July 23 – August 22)
You feel like you’re slowly being crushed at work, in a mental and spiritual sense. Perhaps travel would refresh you? For spiritually beneficial travel, I usually consult my neighbourhood Astral Travel Agency.
Virgo (August 23 – September 22)
Another one of those excruciatingly boring meetings today. Try to liven things up by summoning one of the people back from the dead.
Libra (September 23 – October 22)
E-coli. It’s what’s for dinner!
Scorpio (October 23 – November 21)
Today you will discover an astounding new use for celery, and it will make you rich beyond your wildest dreams.
Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21)
Don’t lose hope! Conditions like yours are painful and embarassing, but often clear up on their own.
Capricorn (December 22 – January 20)
Time to start looking for a new car. Try to find one with more personality, this time! (And less of a sense of humor.)
Aquarius (January 21 – February 18)
You will come up with an idea for cutting down on the customer service calls that your company gets. Unfortunately, there just aren’t enough people with Tourette Syndrome available for hire.
Pisces (February 19 – March 20)
You should give your car a name, so people will be more impressed when you give them a ride. I think you should call yours “The Federation Starship Intrepid”. And always do that little two-finger wave and say “engage”, when you start off, of course.

Earth Science Pic of the Day for Sept. 18th – Spanish Moss

Spanish Moss

September 18, 2011

Spanish moss
Photographer
: Michelle J. Williams
Summary Authors: Michelle J. Williams; Stu Witmer

Spanish moss (Tillandsia usneoides) is neither Spanish nor a true moss. It’s actually a member of the pineapple family, found in southern North America, the West Indies, and Central and South America. It often hangs in large, beard-like, silvery-gray masses from trees and other plants and even on utility poles, but it’s not parasitic nor structurally intertwined with its host. An air-feeding plant or epiphyte, it takes in carbon dioxide and rainwater or dew for photosynthesis through tiny, hairy scales that cover its slender leaves and long, delicate stems. It absorbs nutrients from dust and solvents in rainwater, or from decaying organic matter around its aerial roots. Spanish moss was used by Henry Ford to fill the upholstery in his Model T’s. Allegedly, the “Spanish” in the name got started because early French settlers in Louisiana thought the moss looked like the beards of the earlier Spanish explorers. Photo taken near Monroe, Louisiana on May 5, 2011.

Photo details: Camera Maker: OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP.; Camera Model: SP600UZ; Focal Length: 16mm (35mm equivalent: 89mm); Aperture: f/4.5; Exposure Time: 0.017 s (1/60); ISO equiv: 100; Exposure Bias: none; Metering Mode: Matrix; Exposure: program (Auto); White Balance: Auto; Flash Fired: No (enforced);
Orientation: Normal; Color Space: sRGB.

Astronomy Picture of the Day for Sept. 18th –

Astronomy Picture of the Day

Discover the cosmos!Each day a different image or photograph of our fascinating universe is featured, along with a brief explanation written by a professional astronomer.

2011 September 18

A Sharp View of the Sun
Credit: SST, Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences 

Explanation: Here is one of the sharper views of the Sun ever taken. This stunning image shows remarkable details of a dark sunspot across the image bottom and numerous boiling granules which appear like kernels of corn across the top. Taken in 2002, the picture was made using the Swedish Solar Telescope operating on the Canary Island of La Palma. The high resolution image was achieved using sophisticated adaptive optics, digital image stacking, and other processing techniques to counter the blurring effect of Earth’s atmosphere. Currently a sunspot group is crossing the Sun that is so large it can be easily seen by the cautious observer even without magnification.