Month: October 2013

So What’s the Deal With Divination?

So What’s the Deal With Divination?

Author:   Brunhilde  

That everything occurring in our physical world must first have manifested in the astral plane is the traditional theory behind the art or act of ‘divination’. It is in this astral plane that the patterns of our lives and the events affecting our physical world first take shape. So, if you want to know the future on our physical plane, you can look into the astral plane and see what development is occurring there now. It is knowledge from this astral plane that you are accessing when you perform divination.

How Old Is It?

It is believed that some form of divination existed during the Stone Age. This period spans the time when the races of mankind made the transition from nomadic life to life in stationary farming communities. This transition made the individual villages and tribes more reliant on assistance from the local nature spirits. These communities were no longer able to migrate to other areas if their local food supplies ran out. By establishing farming communities, they tied their continued existence to the local food supply. Therefore, people were well motivated to contact the local nature spirits and establish a rapport with them. One clear way to communicate with the spirits was through the practice of divination. We know that the people of the ancient world relied on divination to make many of their important decisions. Each culture had its own methods for seeking advice from the spirit world. Every leader, from the heads of state to tribal councils to family elders, would utilize some form of divination on a regular basis. It was considered wise and prudent to do so.

How Do You See Into the Astral Plane?

Well, you can’t use the eyes in your face. Instead, you will be looking for signs in the astral plane by using your inner eye. You will be using your psychic sense, your spiritual essence, to open a pathway into the astral plane. You can do this by training your mind. For best results in any type of divination, you should practice placing your mind into a meditative state. It is in that altered state of awareness that you can perceive the subtle energies you are seeking.

What Is a Positive Aspect of Performing Divination?

In addition to helping you to make better decisions, another dividend of practicing divination is that it helps you to develop your psychic abilities—even if you think you don’t have any. All forms of divination require the practitioner to use their psychic sense. We all possess this sense, although it is usually not as strongly developed as our other five physical senses. After all, we have used our other five since birth! Your sixth sense may be understandably weak. But by practicing divination, you can develop and strengthen it. So if you want to be more psychic, learn a skill like divination.

Are There Negative Aspects to Performing Divination?

Of course. You can develop an unhealthy need for constant divination. You can become too dependent upon the process for help. You will feel that you are unable to make even a simple decision without consulting the spirits. You certainly don’t want to become insecure in your own decision-making process. Remember that divination can only suggest a certain course of action to you. In the end, it is you who must make the final decision. So use divination wisely.

Can We Really See Into the Future?

No, divination doesn’t do that. It can only show you a probable result, if nothing changes. Of what value is it then? Well, divination allows us to access more information regarding the question we are posing; information that is not readily apparent to us. Taking all of this additional information into account, we can now make a better decision in the here and now.

You Talkin’ To Me?!

When you perform a divination, you are usually posing a question. Some psychic practitioners, especially those who perform divinations professionally, use the aid of a spiritual third party to facilitate their divination. They may call upon this psychic helper to aid them in accessing the astral plane or assist them in interpreting the answer they receive. This third party can be the practitioner’s own personal spirit guide, a guardian angel, or a teacher spirit. You, too, can choose to perform divinations this way. If you choose to use a facilitator, then you can specifically ask them to help you see the answer to your question. And you can ask them to assist you in interpreting the answer you receive.

Talking To Yourself

To what or to whom are you asking your question? You should decide that issue before you practice divination, because your choice of facilitator may have some bearing on the type of answer you receive.

Perhaps you feel you are not accessing the astral plane when you perform divination. Some people believe that they are simply speaking to their own subconscious mind. They believe that they are communicating with their internal psyche and allowing their personal intuition to take control over their practical, pragmatic conscious mind. You may feel more comfortable with this explanation of divination.

When you think about it, all of our senses are constantly recording information that cannot be brought to the immediate attention of our conscious mind. There is simply too much information for our conscious mind to handle at any given moment. As the saying goes, T.M.I! So, our senses wisely store this glut of information in our subconscious mind. Think of your subconscious mind as a vast repository for all the information gathered by your senses. When you perform divination, you are allowing your subconscious mind to access all of that information. You can then use that data to make a better informed decision. That decision will appear as the answer to your divination.

It’s All in the Past

This idea of communicating with your subconscious mind is valid on more than one level. Many people believe in the idea of past lives and reincarnation. Some folks who believe in reincarnation propose that all the knowledge of our past lives is stored in our subconscious mind. Which makes for a huge personal database! If you believe in this idea, then for you divination is a way to access past-life information.

For example, perhaps you are seeking to answer a question concerning a problem you are having in this life. Maybe you had the same problem in a past life. Or many past lives. Wouldn’t it be great to draw upon all that previous experience dealing with the same problem? Your divination question could be worded to partake of that previous experience in your past lifetimes. For you, divination may be the simple act of viewing your personal storehouse of knowledge. You are scanning your database to help you to make a wise decision in this life.

It’s Already IN There

Some folks believe that all the knowledge you need to succeed in this lifetime is already stored in your brain. When you were on the Other Side, you decided what tasks you would accomplish in this current lifetime. You formulated your goals and decided how best to achieve them. You gathered and stored the information you would need to meet those goals. You arrived here, in this physical plane; with your life-plan and your necessary data already stored in your subconscious. You just need a way to access it and divination is one way to accomplish that task.

Info In Your Aura

There is some evidence that your thoughts and memories are not stored in your mind, conscious or otherwise. You may store information in your light body or aura body, that part of you that transits to the afterlife when your physical body dies. As noted by Debbora Wiles of Psychic Schoolhouse, there are numerous accounts of patients who have been declared clinically dead, but were resuscitated and survived. These patients later described a scenario in which they lifted up out of their physical bodies and hovered in the air above the scene of their death. They heard and saw everything that took place while they were dead. Then their physical body was revived and they floated down back into it. After being revived, they were able to recall in vivid detail all of the activity taking place around them while they were dead.

They have memories and thoughts of the event, even though their brain at the time was no longer functioning, no longer receiving data. These accounts would seem to indicate that our thoughts and memories are not stored in our brains. They are stored in our light body. When we die, our light body detaches from our physical body. Our light body takes our thoughts and memories with it into the afterlife. If we are revived and must transition back into our physical body, our light body reattaches, bringing our thoughts and memories back in with it. So it may be that we are all accessing information stored in our light bodies when we perform divination. That explanation is just one of many ideas on this topic.

What Are Good Times to Perform Divination?

Personally, I like to follow lunar cycles. Through experience, I have found that my divinations performed on the dark of the moon, when the moon and the sun occupy the same zodiac sign, are always more profound for me. The dark of the moon is the lunar phase associated with the Crone, and I have always been drawn to the Crone aspect of the goddess. But you should try performing your divinations in all the lunar phases and see which one works better for you. Start with the lunar phase that appeals to you the most.

Perhaps you are more influenced by solar energy. You may feel that sunlight energizes you psychically. Then changes in sunlight may affect your divination. You may choose to perform divination during certain times of the day, or in the first half of the year (northern hemisphere) when the sunlight is growing stronger every day.

You may be more influenced by seasonal energies. Perhaps there is a certain season of the year that holds more attraction for you than the others. During that season, you may feel more emotionally energized and attuned to psychic energies. For you then, that season may be the time when your divinations are most accurate.

Why Should I Care?

Another element that influences the success of your divination is the importance of your question. How vital is your need for an answer? The more crucial the question, the more heightened are your emotions and the more psychic energy you will pour into the divination process. That surplus of psychic energy will strongly empower your ability to receive the answer you seek.

How Do I Begin?

Examine some of the divination methods currently available. There are many. Tarot, scrying, runes, pendulums, they all require you to use your psychic ability. Explore all the methods you can find. Over time, one method will intrigue you more than the others. Begin your journey with that one. You may add other methods down the line.

Divination is a skill. And like all skills, it must be practiced in order to achieve familiarity and success. Some people have a special innate talent for it, a knack, as it were and they will achieve success at divination sooner than others. But most people will improve their abilities with practice. So don’t give up too soon and cheat yourself out of this wonderful experience.

How Long Does It Take?

It is an unfortunate hallmark of modern society that we are all conditioned to receive instant gratification. We become impatient with standing in lines or waiting our turn. Our ancient ancestors were more conditioned to waiting for results. They knew that some things were worth waiting for, especially esoteric knowledge. They learned vast amounts of information, committing that knowledge to memory over long years of study. In our modern technologically based society, we have forgotten our recent past. We expect to acquire a skill immediately. Sorry, but that is not the case with divination. So try to curb your impatience and give divination, and yourself, a chance to succeed.

My first attempts at divination involved scrying. However, I did not experience success the first time I tried it. But I kept practicing and after a few months I began to receive and interpret messages on a regular basis. And those messages became more and more accurate as I improved my ability to understand and interpret them.

If you can’t decide which method of divination to try, investigate several forms. Over a period of time, you will be attracted to one process and prefer it to all the others. Learn and practice that one process; really work at it. The results will be worth it!

Blessed Be.

________________________________________

Footnotes:
Atwater, P.M.H. The Magical Language of Runes. Bear and Company Publishing, 1990.

McCoy, Edain. Magick and Rituals of the Moon. Llewellyn Publications, 2001.

Thorsson, Edred. Runecaster’s Handbook: the Well of Wyrd. Weiser Books, 1999.

The Nature of Good and Evil?

The Nature of Good and Evil?

Author:   Crowshadower   

Good and Evil are concepts that are used by certain established religions to enforce their way of thinking. Remember that, according to some of those religions, we are Evil simply by virtue of not being part of their faith. How, then, can any Pagan hold on to these concepts while seeking to explore his or her own faith?

Let me just say that what I seek to discuss here is Good and Evil, not good and evil. The difference is quite great, as a perfectly ordinary human being can commit an evil act or a good act without necessarily recognizing any fault. Evil and good are a matter of perspective. But Evil and Good, with the capital letters, are grandiose abstracts.

One of the first things that I learned when I became a pagan was that Good and Evil do not exist as the great abstract powers that I was always taught about in church, nature (in paganism) being a matter of balance rather than opposition. Recently, however, I have heard individuals of the Pagan persuasion talking about Evil entities in exactly the same way Christians would describe devils and demons. It has made me wonder, not whether Good and Evil truly exist, but whether any of us can really escape the heavy-handed religious teachings of our childhood.

There is a reason why I say that Good and Evil do not exist. It’s quite simple, really: Have you ever seen an Evil animal? An Evil stone or tree? No, because in nature there is only motivation and action. Balance is maintained because it is the way things work. Humans have been led to believe that because we are cognizant, we are better than animals. This is the source of the idea of Good and Evil; our ability to think about our actions beyond the instinctive level is taken to mean we have greater control over ourselves, which is true to a certain extent.

Being capable of thinking about our actions should mean that we are able to accept the consequences of our actions and not blame an abstract concept of Evil or Good. It is easier to excuse an ill thought or downright malicious action by saying ‘The Devil made me do it’ than to admit that you are at fault. It is easier to say ‘He’s just plain Evil’ than to realize that society is failing a lot of people and allowing psychologically disturbed individuals to go unnoticed (In these cases, perhaps the nature of Evil is apathy and complacency, of which we may all be guilty.)

When I hear intelligent Pagans talking about Evil or Good entities, I have to ask myself if there is not some misunderstanding. All the spirits and energy entities with which we work have their own motivations (which they are very unlikely to disclose). There are malign beings who will use the unwary to suit their own goals, but that makes them no more Evil then any human being seeking to use another to meet their ambitions. People do morally abhorrent, stupid, ignorant and pointless things every day, but they are not necessarily labeled as Evil: just human. Why should spirits be any different simply because they are incorporeal?

I don’t claim that spirits are the same as living humans, but they exist when we are not calling upon them, and so must have their own reasons for doing things. Perhaps if we understood their drives and aims a little better, we would be more selective as to how, when and who we called upon to aid us in our workings or we might find that we could allow ourselves more freedom in our communications with Otherworld inhabitants.

So, what of the nature of Good and Evil? As Pagans we should not use these terms, but rather acknowledge that intent, motive and action are all part of free will and that by choosing to act in a particular fashion, we also choose to accept the consequences for what we do, be that physical or metaphysical.

By proclaiming ourselves to be Pagans, we have rejected the established religions that preach of Good and Evil, telling their followers of what glory or damnation await in the next life and that the absolution of all acts in this life that can be achieved through their chosen devotions. There are reasons for these established faiths to maintain their belief in Good and Evil, but I cannot think of one that is positive. These concepts are used as a ruler with which to rap the knuckles of unruly followers, rather then expecting the faithful to learn through discussion and explanation. Good and Evil are the religious equivalent of ‘It just is’ giving no further reasoning and offering the believer no leeway in which to make up his or her own mind.

I know as I write this there will be a number of you who are thinking about Hitler/Stalin/Mussolini, etc. Even theyweren’t Evil and by thinking that they were, we give more power and importance to such individuals than they deserve. Most of history’s monsters are misrepresented by the documentation, or they were so mentally disturbed that it is a wonder that they could function on a day-to-day basis at all. Yes, their actions were evil, but in most cases they had delusions that it was for the greater good of their people or nation. Only later were they consumed by their own addiction to power.

Paganism is meant to be as much about thinking for ourselves in all aspects of life as it is about worshipping the Gods of our ancestors. When a Pagan uses Good and Evil, he or she brings into his/her thinking something that belongs to book religions that seek followers who do as they are told, rather than thinking believers willing to argue and change what they think. When you are researching and studying, remember that when a writer uses the words Good or Evil, you need to look beyond and find more information from different sources and perspectives because that source is not providing you with enough information.

The Magick of Life

The Magick of Life

Author:   Crick  

Have you ever taken a moment to notice the magick of life?

While walking along a country road, the reeds off to the side begin to waver to and fro. Is there a Sylph at play? Or is it Father Time heaving a sigh as he passes through?

Have you ever had the pleasure of listening to an old bullfrog bellowing out the blues? A grand old song of love lost and of love yet to be realized. An adage of life presented by way of the lyrics of nature in a symphonic way.

Have you watched as a caterpillar goes wafting along a rough barked tree? She is a beautiful metamorphous in motion, a budding mystery waiting to transform into a colorful and majestic form. From earth to sky, a wonderful delight forever touching our souls. The magick of life in a brief expanse of titillating color.

Have you ever noticed mother spider silently gazing over her web of silken strands. A superb artisan as she quietly guards the doorway to a special realm. Hers is an ancient lesson in patience. Sitting off to the side as a master shaman stealthily traverses from this realm to that using the glistening web as a mystic gateway into orbs of awareness floating about just beyond our senses.

Have you listened to the crescendo of a community of crickets as they sing in unison? First softly then loudly, then softly again, never missing a beat. An exercise in harmony, an everlasting bond of harmony. An awareness of their surroundings woven into the tapestry of their opera.

Such is the magick of life.

Have you ever noticed tiny dewdrops glistening like little diamonds clinging to the tall green blades of grass? An Undine child in the making perhaps as Father Sun draws them up into his warm embrace. Or perhaps a treasure forever in the making and yet never to be harvested.

Have you ever watched as a solitary leaf floats lazily out of the sky? Going this way and that and yet with a sure purpose. Directed by the currents of the breeze, much like life that is influenced by the changing winds of society. And yet a steady yet unseen goal looms before it.

Have you ever watched as a mother bird feeds her young? A bond of love stronger then steel and yet undetected by the human eye. The continuation of life, a magick ever so strong. For love can lead to birth as well as to death.

And so the wheel turns.

Have you ever watched as a black snake silently slithers across a path? A symbol of evil to some and yet seldom seen. Misunderstandings leading to fear, spiraling about in the darkness of ignorance. And yet knowledge will bring you back to the depths of understanding. And such awareness leads to tranquility and peace.

For such is the magick of life.

Have you ever watched a busy colony of ants? Oh the magick that resides within. A common purpose and involvement by all. No obstacle too great. No task too small. Surely lessons here to be learned by those who seek out such mysteries.

For the magick of life offers lessons not to be seen nor heard but to be felt and absorbed when we open up our hearts. Some teach that humans tower above nature. But as pagans it’s our way to be as one with life. For nature is life and the magick that she offers transcends all such misguided beliefs.

Have you noticed?

Deep within the forest, mother bruin lies within the embrace of hibernation, new life forming within her womb. An ancient ritual practiced through the ages. Have you ever wondered about her dreams as she sleeps through the frigid months of winter?
Now that is the magick of life.

Have you ever stood at the waters edge and watched as a mighty fish comes bursting through the surface of its watery domain? Perhaps it is carrying a message of truth and wisdom from He who resides in the murky depths.

Awaken witch, to the wonders of this realm. Listen to all that your ancestors knew to be true. Perhaps it is telling you to shake off the detritus of the mind and to feel with your heart that which is your destiny to experience as a pagan.

Far too long such knowledge has been suppressed by man; let nature be your ears and eyes.

Have you ever listened to the lone cry of a coyote during the moon lit night? A primal reaction to an awareness that has always been and will always be. Shaman quietly smiles in acknowledgement as his brother bids him welcome.

Such, my friend, is the magick of life.

Have you ever come upon the empty shell of a cicada clinging silently to a tree?

It would appear that death in place of life is in evidence; however a metamorphism onto a greater reality is the result of such an event. For death is the balance that creates life, one without the other is an energy, which has not come full circle, a partial reaction to what must be in order to be complete.

Have you ever sat amidst a field on the edge of dusk as an owl goes gliding quietly by? Some would say a witch in flight. Striking fear into its potential prey as it wings by on its deadly mission. And yet even fear has its place in the magick of life.

As pagans of whatever path, we too have something to contribute to the cacophony of magick that swirls all about us like a silent mist contained within the fog of reason.

Freeing our minds from the shackles of fears and insecurities that such knowledge brings to those who are not of pure heart is a step forwards towards such a contribution.

Acknowledging that such wisdom is within our ability to accept is a gift of awareness and acceptance that has been sorely lacking by so many of our species.

Throw off the blinders of prejudice and ignorance and allow yourself to be a student of life.

For the path of the pagan is truly the magick of life.

THE AUTARCHIC CREED

Celtic & British Isles Graphics
THE AUTARCHIC CREED

We of the Old Religion have our own particular compact with our
deities that charges simply, “An it harm none, do as ye will.”
And our gods do not despise us for being human but delight in our
celebrations of life and love. We are ageless souls, only for a
while within bodies – merely visitors upon this plane. We are
brothers to the gods and only temporarily cousins to the ape,
and our lives belong to us, not to this world nor to its earthly
governors. We are not doomed to shame and decay; not lost; not
indentured to perish with earthly manifestations; not disposed
to eternal misery for any past or present lapses of courage or
wisdom. We are as children in the school of life who must learn
our lessons, on life at a time, before we graduate. Our lives
span the march of time, striving upward, subordinate only to our
individual probity and growth.

But in this mortal life, greedy, trivial hierophants and mundane
rulers have perpetrated a fraud upon humanity. They have purloined
for profit and temporal power, our legitimate heritage, and that of
all society, and have substituted for it shame, despair, and fear,
inventing evil deities to terrify and to constrain mankind from the
exercise of his own native conscience.

Still we take our uncertain portion time and again, joining with the
species on this plane, only to meet with earthly disunity and distress;
only to be told by bogus, uncelestial shepherds that we are deficient
and fundamentally iniquitous; constantly rebuked that our natural
birthright is insubstantial or even sinful, and that we must cleave
to the pious injunctions of reigning mortals, no matter how oppressive,
or suffer beyond measurable time, yearning for some mythical golden
glory just out of reach, but somehow never quite worthy of it.

That is the apocryphal hell and the fabled satan; they are of mortal
creation; they are now, not in some remote bye-and-bye; and those who
choose to believe in them perpetuate them in this earth. But nevertheless,
by by sublime design, despite narrowness, folly or fear, we all, each
and every one, possess this wonderous legacy:

that each of us sustains a singular covenant with the cosmic, in that
the soul is and ever was, one with the universe, conducting itself in
concordance with the absolute. And whatever paths it may walk, or
whichever faith it may follow, on sojourn at a time, each shall as a
consequence of that oneness, and attuning with its destiny, eventually
return on its own to its source to again be part of that totality,
atoned, aware and unshackled.

“JUSTIFICUS”

A Little Humor for Your Day – Tips for Halloween Survival

Tips for Halloween Survival   

    

 
        

Since there has been reports of unsafe hex going on over the last few years resulting in the loss of several viable members within the community it has been brought to my attention that there is the need to present safety tips for those of us who dare to venture beyond our own “safe” houses.

These experiences have been very well documented and put up on the silver screen for all to see. For those of you who have not paid attention to the documentation, this is the official Halloween Public Service Announcement.Take note, so each and every one of you all can have an enjoyable Holiday.

  1. Never stand in, on, above, below, beside, or near a grave, tomb, crypt, mausoleum, etc.

  2. Avoid secluded mountain resorts, especially those which keep ‘Redrum’ in stock.

  3. Castles are not normally found in the American Midwest. Be wary.

  4. Never take the dare to spend a night in a haunted house.

  5. If priests won’t or can’t enter your home, start looking for a new home.

  6. If the house you’re in tells you to “GO AWAY”, do so immediately.

  7. If supernatural beings start calling your name, leave the area immediately, if not sooner.

  8. If you are alone in a house and something calls your name, leave the house immediately through whatever exit is in the opposite direction. If there is no exit, make one.

  9. If you’re searching for something which caused a noise and find out that it’s just the cat, leave the room immediately or else you will quickly die.

  10. If entering your room you put your hand in a kind of sticky/slimy/resinous kind of substance that was not there before, turn and run immediately.

  11. It is very, very dangerous to back into, or through rooms.

  12. Never put your back to or lean on a door.

  13. If a unknown creature is locked inside of a pantry, closet, etc, don’t open it.

  14. Do not search the basement, especially if the power has just gone out.

  15. Never stand in, on, above, below, beside or near a window, especially those that appear that they would break easily.

  16. If plumbing fixtures or other structures in your home begin shaking and spewing body fluids, it’s time to leave.

  17. Don’t look under the bed.

  18. If your dance partner has no reflection, chances are s/he just might be a vampire.

  19. Never take a bath or shower with a maniac/spirit/demon/creature in the house.

  20. As tempting as it is, don’t have sex until the maniac/spirit/demon/creature is dead. For some unknown reason, the maniac/spirit/demon/creature will aways be attracted to sexually active couples — at precisely the wrong time.

    • Note: Vampires like virgin blood. So this is the one and only time where the “no having sex” rule doesn’t apply. Have fun!

    • … but first make sure your partner is not a vampire.  Check in a mirror.

  21. If you’ve hidden from the maniac/spirit/demon/creature and you are not found, do not peek from or decide it’s safe to leave your hiding place. If you do decide to leave, scan the ground for twigs before you take a step.

  22. Don’t try to kill the maniac/spirit/demon/creature. Chances are good that it will never die; it’s got to be around for the sequels to kill your kids, remaining family, and/or the people you sold the house to.

  23. When it appears that you have killed the maniac/spirit/demon/creature, DO NOT check to see if he/she/it is really dead. Keep hacking at it until it is in pieces small enough not to be a threat to you.

    • Note: If you hack it into tiny pieces, you run the risk of the pieces                  regenerating. Then you’ll have a dozen of the buggers to deal with.

  24. If you’ve shot at the maniac/spirit/demon/creature, shoot it again in the head, and remember, shoot till it stops moving, and then keep shooting till you’re out of ammo. Then reload and shoot it some more. Then set it on fire and burn it up, this works with everything except demons and spirits.Then get the heck out of there!

  25. Never get into a car without first checking the back seat for occupants.

  26. If you’ve just finished running over the maniac/spirit/demon/creature in your car, keep going. Most certainly do not get out of the car under any circumstances to see if he/she/it is “really” dead.

  27. The more people the maniac/spirit/demon/creature is distracted by, the better “your” chance of escape.

  28. The more cowardly you are, the more likely you are to get eaten. Do the minimum amount to help others.

  29. When you have the benefit of numbers, never, ever, pair off, or go in alone.

  30. If demons begin possessing your companions, it’s a good idea to leave the area as soon, and as quickly as possible.

Turok’s Cabana

Daily Feng Shui News for Oct. 30 – ‘Traveling With Your Pet’

Today, let’s take a look at how to easily travel with your pet. Starting a few days before you leave, put three or four drops of pure peppermint essential oil in their water. Don’t forget to pack the peppermint either. While you’re away, continue putting the peppermint oil in your pet’s water. That way, they may be more willing to drink unfamiliar smelling or tasting water while away from home.

By Ellen Whitehurst for Astrology.com

Your Charm for October 30th is The Eye Agate

Your Charm for Today

The Eye Agate

Today’s Meaning:  

The eye represents your will to be loved. The strength of your will controls this aspect. You have neglected needed emotions of love in your life. You cannot expect to be loved if you do not show it.

General Description:   

These enatic (eye stones) were first worn for protection in the East, but soon the custom of wearing these charms spread to almost all countries. Implicit faith was placed in their reputed magical power to guard the wearer from the dreaded influence of the evil eye. From the very earliest times the imagined influence of the evil eye has struck terror into the hearts of the weak minded, ignorant, and superstitious. The uncanny effect of the eye is produced by cutting through the parallel bands, or layers of the different colours which form the agate.

Your Animal Spirit for October 30th is Porcupine

Your Animal Spirit for Today
October 30, 2013

Porcupine

Porcupine has appeared in your reading today to bring a message of innocence and trust. Although Porcupine can throw quills when cornered, he is gentle, loving, and non-aggressive. Is there an area of your life that need Porcupine energy? Have you lost the ability to trust??

Your Ancient Symbols Card for October 30th is The Dove

Your Ancient Symbol Card for Today

The Dove

Throughout history the Dove has symbolized peace and innocence in nearly all cultures. Dove’s soft cooing and gentle nature bring a calmness to any situation. The Dove appears where peace has been attained or there is a need to bring events to a peaceful ending. It denotes a time to let lose of grievances and settle conflicts in a way that benefits all parties equally.

As a daily card, Dove suggests the need to put an end to conflict in your present life. The conflict may be yours or may be that of people close to you. Regardless of the parties involved, you have been called upon to bring the discord to an impartial end.

Today’s Tarot for October 30th is The High Priestess

The High Priestess

Wednesday, Oct 30th, 2013

Traditionally called the High Priestess, this major arcana, or trump, card represents human wisdom. She can be viewed as a kind of female Pope, the ancient Egyptian Priestess of Isis, the even older snake and bird Goddesses, the Greek Goddess Persephone, or the Eve of Genesis before the Fall.

For the accused heretics who were burnt at the stake for revering her in the 14th and 15th century, she symbolized the prophecy of the return of the Holy Spirit, which was perceived as the female aspect of the Holy Trinity.

In the sequence of cards in the major arcana, the High Priestess appears as soon as the Fool decides he wants to develop his innate powers, making a move toward becoming a Magus. The High Priestess is his first teacher, representing the Inner Life and the method for contacting it, as well as the contemplative study of Nature and the Holy Mysteries.

Halloween Costumes for the Zodiac

Halloween Costumes for the Zodiac

Spooky, sexy or silly?

Astrology reveals your sign’s best costume

Jeff Kishner     Jeff Kishner on the topics of halloween, astrology

A person’s Sun sign often reflects their inner hopes and dreams. Halloween costumes are an exciting opportunity to bring these fantasy lives to the surface.

Some say the veil to the otherworld is lifted this time of year, so not only can you tap into your insight more easily with a Tarot reading, but you can have a little fun role playing, too.

If you’re stuck for Halloween costume ideas, check out the list below. It could provide you with the perfect outfit to express your inner demons!

Aries (March 21 – April 19)

Your sign is ruled by Mars, the warrior of the zodiac. Dress up as a gladiator or a luchador (a Mexican wrestler). Aries is also the sign of courage, so a police officer, firefighter or military officer uniform would help you express your inner Ram. Superhero costumes are also popular this year, and bold Aries is perfectly suited to take on Superman, Batman or Iron Man.

Taurus (April 20 – May 20)

Your sign is known for earthy beauty, from sensuous curves to brawny muscles. Dress up as Miss America, who made a huge splash this year, or Mr. Universe to show off what you’ve got. You can also dress up as Poison Ivy or a walking tree to channel the Bull’s love for green pastures. Taurus also loves to indulge, so don’t hesitate to dress yourself up like a sweet cupcake!

Gemini (May 21 – June 20)

What better way to dress up than to be Siamese Twins with your best bud or girlfriend? You can literally be joined at the hip! You could also go as famous real-life Twins, such as Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen. Or a famous real-life Gemini, Angelina Jolie. Gemini is also an androgynous sign, so be a half-man/half-woman creature … or just go in drag!

Cancer (June 21 – July 22)

Your sentimental sign loves the homeland, so express your patriotism as the Statue of Liberty, Uncle Sam or America’s true ancestor, a Native American. Cancer also loves food, so dress up as an oversized banana or a milk carton. You can also pay tribute by dressing up as real-life Cancer Princess Diana, or embrace your sign’s nurturing instincts to dress as a famous mom, like Carol Brady or Octomom!

Leo (July 23 – Aug. 22)

What better way to channel your sign’s mascot than as the Lion from The Wizard of Oz, or in a sexy cat costume? And of course, glamorous Leo rules over royalty and stars, so dress up as a king, queen or just wear tons of gold. Or go as an A-list celebrity or movie star, like Marilyn Monroe or Elvis.

Virgo (Aug. 23 – Sept. 22)

This perfectionistic, word-loving sign can express its erotic earthiness as a sexy librarian. Virgo is also associated with Demeter, the grain goddess … so a chaff of wheat may be right up your alley. Virgo is a great pet lover, so you could dress up as an animal — a cat or dog or even a fox costume, which are selling out this year. Or go as a classic Virgo good-girl, like Dorothy from the Wizard of Oz — and don’t forget her pet, Toto!

Libra (Sept. 23 – Oct. 22)

What better way to bring balance to this holiday than to dress up as Justice? A scale in each hand would help you make sure everyone gets their equal share of candy, especially if you’re dressed up as Judge Judy. Or put on your best threads and say you’re a fashion guru or interior designer. Libra is also the sign that most loves to shop, so dress up as a shopoholic with tons of boxes and bags and you’ll feel right at home.

Scorpio (Oct. 23 – Nov. 21)

Your sign is the private investigator of the zodiac, so you may want to dress up as Sherlock Holmes, Nancy Drew or Inspector Gadget. Scorpio also rules the underworld — so going all-out as your favorite Mafioso will do, whether it’s Tony Soprano or Al Capone. Scorpio is also perfect for so many dark, creepy Halloween costumes — the Grim Reaper, Darth Vader and the Devil will do. Or you could be a zombie prom queen, a skeleton or a corpse bride!

Sagittarius (Nov. 22 – Dec. 21)

The adventurer of the zodiac may want to dress up as Indiana Jones or Lara Croft. Sagittarians also love to make people laugh, so donning a clown costume or the silliest outfit you can find will be good for a few chuckles. The sign of the Archer is also perfectly suited to play a huntress from The Hunger Games, like Katniss Everdeen — just don’t forget your bow!

Capricorn (Dec. 22 – Jan. 19)

The businessman of the zodiac may want to put on a power suit and a funny hairpiece to look like Donald Trump. Strong women, such as Hillary Clinton or Joan of Ark, are also well-suited to your sign. Capricorn also excels at building, so a construction worker’s outfit — make sure you wear a helmet — will help you blast through any crowd. You could also be a superhero, as Capricorn is known for its nearly superhuman strength of character!

Aquarius (Jan. 20 – Feb. 18)

Aquarius rules outer space, so what better way to celebrate Halloween than as an astronaut … or a space alien? Dress up as a scientist in a lab coat and taped glasses to channel this sign’s intellectual bent, or put on fake tattoos and piercings to show your inner rebel. Robots, like in Dr. Who or Star Wars — think R2D2 and C3P0 — are perfect for your quirky sign!

Pisces (Feb. 19 – March 20)

Your sign’s ruling planet, Neptune, commands the sea. Dress up as a mermaid or King of the Sea (carry your trident, or three-pronged spear!). Artistic Pisces would also love to be a ballerina, painter or poet for Halloween. Or wear soft flowing fabrics to be the Muse. Pisces is also known as the most psychic sign of the zodiac, so a gypsy fortune teller Halloween costume would be perfect!

Daily Horoscopes for Wednedes, Oct. 30th

We want to concentrate on the details today, but even the analytical Virgo Moon can’t draw our attention away from the bigger picture. We are reacting to social and cultural pressures and can feel the sense of urgency growing for the next few days because action-hero Mars is aligning with transformational Pluto and futuristic Uranus. Even if we try to remain practical, it requires willpower to avoid getting caught up in the turmoil of the times.

Aries Horoscope

(Mar 21 – Apr 19)

You might not be very happy about the attitude of a coworker today and may feel the need to confront the issue. Nevertheless, you’re not sure if you really want to stir things up so much that you lose your sense of stability. Instead of turning your world upside down, accept your frustration for a while longer without placing blame on anyone else. The winds of change are shifting and it will continue to get easier to alter your current direction in the days ahead.

Taurus Horoscope

(Apr 20 – May 20)

An emotionally intense person may attempt to talk you into doing something that you prefer to avoid. Fortunately, you have an extraordinary amount of stamina today and might be ready to apply your legendary determination to the current situation. Normally, it’s helpful to hold your ground in spite of external pressure, but knowing when to negotiate can ultimately make your world a better place.

Gemini Horoscope

(May 21 – Jun 20)

Narrowing your scope of vision is a very smart idea now, since it’s arguably more crucial to finish your work than it is to have fun. However, saying no may be the most important thing you can do today because this simple act gives you the additional time that you so desperately need to achieve your goals. Stay as focused as possible since your full presence in the moment makes a world of difference.

Cancer Horoscope

(Jun 21 – Jul 22)

You are not readily lured into lowering your defenses today, since it’s easier to play with others if you don’t get too emotionally close to them. The cool Virgo Moon squares romantic Venus this evening, drumming up social conflict. It’s hard to stay in the present moment when there are important unanswered questions about your future. Don’t dwell on what’s missing; instead be thankful for what is already yours.

Leo Horoscope

(Jul 23 – Aug 22)

Sometimes it’s challenging to be you, even if your life seems amazing to others. However, external appearances can be misleading, for there are tricky planetary forces pulling you into deeper waters now. Luckily, you’re quite comfortable swimming in the intense emotional currents, so don’t waste any energy trying to avoid them. Dive in and learn something new about yourself.

Virgo Horoscope

(Aug 23 – Sep 22)

You may feel waves of positive energy flowing into your life now, but you cannot integrate them until you resolve an unpleasant situation from the past. You might choose to avoid direct confrontation today, but being true to your emotions lifts your self-confidence. Naturally, when your self-esteem is higher, you can accomplish more than others expect. Roll up your sleeves and get busy while you have the planets on your side.

Libra Horoscope

(Sep 23 – Oct 22)

You want everyone to be happy, but you still might need to bring important news to the attention of others. However, you could inadvertently spread negativity now without even realizing what you are doing. Stay aware of how your thoughts impact your deeds throughout the day. Thankfully, it’s not difficult to overcome your own doubts if you simply take the time to acknowledge them first. Believe in yourself and anything is possible.

Scorpio Horoscope

(Oct 23 – Nov 21)

Your emotional intensity rises to an even higher pitch over the next couple of days as feisty Mars crosses paths with potent Pluto and irrepressible Uranus. It may be difficult to hide an internal conflict you are facing, and it gets harder the more you try. Instead of resisting your feelings, allow them to ripple outward through your life. Thankfully, you can express your needs with kindness and awareness without necessarily having to suppress them.

Sagittarius Horoscope

(Nov 22 – Dec 21)

You like the idea of staying on the sunny side of your disposition, but today there could be a rather serious issue that needs airing, too. Naturally, others appreciate your positive attitude; nevertheless, don’t let anyone’s expectations stand in the way of your honesty. After all, part of your reputation is based on your ability to tell it like it is. You will feel free once the truth is out in the open.

Capricorn Horoscope

(Dec 22 – Jan 19)

Your heightened ambition tempts you to ride roughshod over the feelings of others today. You might even try to blame your current emotional disconnection on taking a direct path to success that doesn’t consider anything except reaching your goal. Being productive is admirable; however, there is more to life than working hard each and every day. Slow down and take time to smell the flowers along the way.

Aquarius Horoscope

(Jan 20 – Feb 18)

You are seeking ways to advance professionally and may find yourself putting in extra time and effort to get noticed. You are motivated now by several planets in your 10th House of Career, inspiring you to postpone fun activities while concentrating on more professional objectives. But working harder by itself might not be enough to do the trick today. Your gentle persistence combined with patience and positivity is an award-winning strategy.

Pisces Horoscope

(Feb 19 – Mar 20)

You might feel as if someone is on your case today and you really don’t know how to set the record straight without turning the situation into a major conflict. Nevertheless, you can’t just let it go, even if it’s not that big of a deal. There’s no need to take any resistance personally. If you can avoid showing your annoyance, the obstacles could dissipate quicker than you think. Reframing the current circumstances makes more sense than trying to change them now.

Daily Cosmic Calendar for October 30th

An assortment of opportunities is available during a good portion of the day as the Moon in Virgo makes a supportive, 60-degree tie with Jupiter in Cancer (11:40AM) while the Sun forms an inspirational, 72-degree rapport with Pallas (12:56PM) and the Moon unites with soul-sister Vesta (4:47PM).  The Moon-Jupiter connection is a clear boost for the power of positive thinking. The Sun-Pallas alignment promotes problem-solving and strategy sessions. The Moon conjunct Vesta energizes investment planning, fellowship gatherings, and sisterhood reunions. Stay calm and steady regarding family matters and parental figures due to a 45-degree link between Ceres and Saturn (4:34PM).  The later hours may prove emotionally unsettling as the Moon squares Venus (7:49PM) — beginning a void lunar twilight zone that lasts until 5:23AM tomorrow. Being too pushy or cantankerous in primary partnerships is foolish as Mars in Virgo opposes Chiron in Pisces (11:09PM). It is much better to learn more about techniques that heal body and soul than to transform dear ones into adversaries. [Note to readers: All times are calculated for Pacific Daylight Time. Be sure to adjust all times according to your own local time so the alignments noted above will be exact for your location.]

Calendar of the Sun for October 30th

Calendar of the Sun

30 Winterfyllith

Day III of the Mysteries of Isis and Osiris

Colors: Green and black
Elements: Earth and Air
Altar: Upon cloth of green and black set a figure of Isis, a figure of Osiris, a box carved like a sarcophagus, and two large ivory candles.
Offerings: Continue with the long-term difficult project.
Daily Meal: Beer. Barley. Figs. Dates. Nuts. Flatbread.

Osiris Invocation II

Hail O Osiris
Wake O Osiris
Arise O Osiris
Thy Mother Nuit gives thee birth
The great company of gods would converse with thee
Take thy seat, Osiris,
For none shall offend thee,
Thine enemies are beneath thee,
All honor is given
To Osiris, Lord of the Dead.
For Osiris was feasting at his table
And walking in the peace of his garden
When Set, his brother adversary,
Armed with many henchmen,
Lay upon him with weapons
And they slew the good Osiris,
Lord of the Earth beneath us.
So that his Queen might not revive him
With all her goodly magics,
Set cut his brother’s body
Into seventeen different pieces
And flung them into the swamps of the Nile.
So died the good Osiris
For the second time,
And the sun was dimmed,
And the West ran red as with blood.
And Isis searched for him for three days,
And in three days we will find her.
Weep for him, once King of the Gods!

(All weep and wail. The lights are put out, and the wailing continues as all exit.)

[Pagan Book of Hours]

Current Moon Phase for Oct. 30th – Waning Crescent

Crescent Moon

(waning /17% of Full)

This is a time to rest, reevaluate and reflect, pulling back into yourself to reconnect with inner sources of strength. Now is not a time to initiate anything new. It’s a phase suited to spending time with friends and getting in touch with the “big picture.” A window of opportunity exists for seeing your life objectively and becoming aware of what is important to you. At this point, what are your dreams and aspirations? What larger goals can you aspire to that will bring vitality and excitement into your life? This is a time for resting and gaining inner strength to prepare for a new cycle.