Your Ancient Symbol Card for Dec. 9th is The Hawk

Your Ancient Symbol Card for Today

The Hawk

High flying and courageous Hawk uses his sharp vision to see all aspects of the world below him in minute detail. He is gifted at taking in all he sees and quickly creating a powerful plan of action. The Hawk suggests that while a broad view of the situation should be taken, the details cannot be overlooked. The Hawk calls for authoritative action based upon a thorough understanding of the circumstances.

As a daily card, The Hawk indicates your vision may be too limited from your current vantage point. You should step back far enough from the situation to see the “big picture.” Then study the details and act commandingly on what you have learned.

Today’s Tarot Card for December 9th is The High Priestess

The High Priestess

Monday, Dec 9th, 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.

Your Daily Horoscopes for Monday, December 9th

The boundaries which separate us seem less real today. Although mystics throughout the ages have taught that our personal distinctions are illusory, the spiritual Pisces Moon reminds us of what happens when we confuse reality with fantasy. We must pay attention to our limits as the surreal Pisces Moon squares the indulgent Sagittarius Sun, encouraging us to reach for the stars. It’s easier to find our way home if we haven’t traveled too far.

Aries Horoscope

(Mar 21 – Apr 19)

You may be more concerned about everyone else today than you are about yourself. Obviously, wanting to help those you love is wonderful, but trying to fix everything is not healthy. Learning to respect other people’s boundaries is a huge lesson for you now because you might unconsciously ride roughshod over someone’s feelings, without even realizing it. Remember, you can be of assistance by actively listening and kindly sharing your emotions; just don’t try to run the show.

Taurus Horoscope

(Apr 20 – May 20)

Thinking about cosmic questions that don’t have easy answers might occupy a lot of your spare time today. Searching for the meaning of life isn’t on your everyday agenda, but now it can deepen your spiritual connection. Even if you are oftentimes satisfied with simple explanations, take this opportunity to explore a more complex set of issues that go beyond finding emotional security and personal pleasure. Look within to find the solutions you seek.

Gemini Horoscope

(May 21 – Jun 20)

An unusual turn of events might shake up your schedule, but there’s no reason not to go along for the ride. Fortunately, you are able to make good use of your toolkit of clever ideas and smooth moves, which can ease the complexity. Remember, if anything goes awry now, it’s most likely a sign of a deeper problem. Do whatever you must to extinguish any brush fires that smolder while continuing to work on cleaning up the underlying issues. The more effort you put in, the more you will receive in return.

Cancer Horoscope

(Jun 21 – Jul 22)

Knowing exactly what’s appropriate today is tricky, since your emotional boundaries may still be a bit fuzzy. You could even waste time and energy lost in feelings that actually belong to someone else. Visualizing a barrier of impenetrable white light around you can be enough to reestablish a strong perimeter that keeps out the negativity and allows you to reconnect with your center.

Leo Horoscope

(Jul 23 – Aug 22)

You may be quite hopeful now about the possibilities of a new romance, yet caution is advised so you don’t overlook an important piece of the puzzle. Although no one is purposefully trying to mislead you, everything is not exactly as it seems. It’s your willingness to give others the benefit of the doubt that can create problems. A healthy dose of realism today saves you from disappointment tomorrow.

Virgo Horoscope

(Aug 23 – Sep 22)

A challenging relationship issue may give you a headache today, but if you face the situation with a realistic attitude, you’ll be thankful in the long run. You could learn something crucial that helps you to see things more clearly in the days ahead. However, burying your head in the sand is not a viable strategy. Dealing with the truth that is right in front of you creates a foundation strong enough to endure the current circumstances without having to retreat. Handle the situation the best you can and don’t look back.

Libra Horoscope

(Sep 23 – Oct 22)

Maintaining a steady work pace while taking care of business is difficult today, but pushing yourself harder won’t necessarily be an efficient strategy. Try cutting yourself some slack and let your energy ebb and flow throughout the day without attempting to control it. In between short bursts of concentrated effort, make time to revel in your creative side, even if you aren’t productive for a while. Think of yourself as a metaphysical surfer; ride the waves while the surf’s up and regroup when it’s calm.

Scorpio Horoscope

(Oct 23 – Nov 21)

Making enough time to commune with nature or with your inner guides can turn today into a sweet memory. Even if you have responsibilities to fulfill, don’t cheat yourself out of the magic you might find by creating a bit of solitude. Thankfully, your imagination reveals unconventional solutions to mundane problems if you successfully quiet your thoughts. Giving yourself permission to be spontaneous now empowers you to move through a current roadblock. Listening to your intuition is a good place to start.

Sagittarius Horoscope

(Nov 22 – Dec 21)

Your sound judgment pours from you so smoothly today, you may not realize how much you help someone else. You have a great deal of philosophical and spiritual wisdom to share, and this is your chance to return the generosity that others have shown you in the past. There’s no need to seek recognition or approval now; giving back to those who require assistance is its own sweet reward.

Capricorn Horoscope

(Dec 22 – Jan 19)

Making intelligent decisions could be tricky business today because your mind isn’t on your regular mundane concerns. You may be drifting around in your own private fantasy, instead of carefully calculating how to reach your next set of goals. Don’t try to suppress your dreams even if they seem unreachable; there are treasures waiting for your discovery within the realms of your imagination. Open the door and let them in.

Aquarius Horoscope

(Jan 20 – Feb 18)

You may have to deal with complicated money issues today, yet you can avert a messy problem if you face them head on as soon as they surface. Although the current situation might not seem like a significant concern in the big picture, it’s still a smart idea to consider what you could learn from exploring all your options before making an important decision. However, if your intuition tells you one thing and logic points elsewhere, go with the facts for now.

Pisces Horoscope

(Feb 19 – Mar 20)

You are happily splashing around in your own watery element today and are able to dive deeper into your dreams if you so choose. This can be a most luxurious time if you are in a positive state of mind. But if you are even mildly depressed, you could find yourself drowning in your own tears. Don’t be afraid to talk about your fears with a trusted friend. The first step to getting help is asking for it. Remember, Fish are most content when they are swimming in a school of like-minded souls.

Your Love Horoscopes for the Week of December 9th

When it comes to love, we all want brilliant, enlightening communication and the ability to reach for your most enduring goals together. Ah, the stuff that every dream relationship is made of, right? Fortunately, this week it’s all within your grasp. Tuesday’s lively trine between Mercury and Uranus will promise support and interest as you and your mate share those bright ideas. Then, on Thursday, expansive Jupiter will connect with Saturn, helping you keep steady as you build up each other’s hopes.

Aries Horoscope
Aries Horoscope (Mar 21 – Apr 19)

Have you longed to take your relationship to new spiritual heights? This week you just might begin that incredible journey. Don’t be afraid to approach your sweetheart and open up about your spiritual or philosophical views. Even if they’re a little bit “out there,” your lover will find them endearing. In fact, the more unconventional you are in this department, the more attractive you’ll be. Looking to buy a house or condo with your partner? This week that dream might become a reality.

Taurus Horoscope
Taurus Horoscope (Apr 20 – May 20)

Have you had that intimate conversation with your lover yet? You know, the one about your sex life? If not, this is the week to share the thoughts you have about how things have been going between the sheets. Don’t be afraid to tell your sweetheart that you’re up for a tad more experimentation in the bedroom. If you approach this topic near Tuesday, you might be surprised at the response — livening things up will be much easier than you think. So stop avoiding it and start talking about it!

Gemini Horoscope
Gemini Horoscope (May 21 – Jun 20)

You might not feel this week is especially heart stopping when it comes to fairytale romantic prospects, but that’s just fine. Not every moment of our lives is meant to be filled with oozy enchantment. Instead, you’ll derive your greatest satisfaction with your partner when the two of you focus on your social life — especially around Tuesday. Do you share a similar curiosity and attend meetings or belong to an organization related to this interest? On Tuesday, you might feel exceptionally stimulated as you pursue learning more about it. Your partner will agree.

Cancer Horoscope
Cancer Horoscope (June 21 – Jul 22)

This week, if anything sustains you, it’ll be love. Your ability to count on your sweetheart will remind you that even though life sometimes takes you on a bumpy ride, the one constant that remains is each other. If you’ve experienced a rough patch in your relationship lately, you’ll feel the stress begin to diminish by Thursday. If you’re married with children, it may be the kids that bind you together, reminding you that your bond is something special after all.

Leo Horoscope
Leo Horoscope (Jul 23 – Aug 22)

Romantic and adventurous thoughts and ideas will take your breath away this week. Don’t put anything past your lover, because he or she is likely to feel as restless and itchy for a new experience as you’ll be. Consider a new hobby that you can enjoy together. It’ll need to offer both physical and intellectual stimulation in order to really feed the craving you each have now. The good news is that you’ll continue to communicate beautifully with your sweetheart this week. Love is grand!

Virgo Horoscope
Virgo Horoscope (Aug 23 – Sep 22)

It’s one thing to have love in your life, but it’s another thing entirely when that love makes you feel completely supported as you pursue your dreams. This week, you’ll have the best of both worlds. If you’re second-guessing yourself when it comes to one of your long held aspirations, it’ll be your partner who helps put things in perspective. He or she will remind you that instead of looking at how much further you need to go, you should give yourself a pat on the back and acknowledge how far you’ve already come.

Libra Horoscope
Libra Horoscope (Sep 23 – Oct 22)

Your relationship dynamic is anything but conventional these days, and at times this can drive you batty. This week, however, you might find that you not only tolerate your partner’s eccentric ways, but you also manage to achieve a great amount of satisfaction from them. You seem more open somehow, and more able to understand that unusual or different doesn’t mean negative. In fact, when it comes to your love life, weird is the new “hot.”

Scorpio Horoscope
Scorpio Horoscope (Oct 23 – Nov 21)

Optimism returns in your world this week, much to your delight. With Saturn touring your sign since October 2012, along with significant eclipses crossing your relationship axis, there’s a certain amount of sobriety attached to your responsibilities in a close partnership. Tests to your personal endeavors are par for the course, as Saturn wants to ensure that you’re spending time on projects — and people — who bring quality to your life. On Thursday, you might feel a positive breakthrough. Renewed faith will allow you to make strides with your mate.

Sagittarius Horoscope
Sagittarius Horoscope (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

An open mind is the key to an open heart, and this week you’ll know this is true. If single, a conversation with someone you find intriguing may quickly lead to a first date. Don’t think you need to go out of your way to find this person. He or she may appear on the train during your commute, or be casually shopping while you make a pit stop at the grocery store. Remain open to any dialogue with someone new you meet — especially around Tuesday. Anything can happen from there.

Capricorn Horoscope
Capricorn Horoscope (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

You and your partner might feel as if a mutual dream is finally coming true. While you’ll both have worked quite diligently to make this happen, it appears that by Thursday you’ll receive a clear indication that your hard work is about to pay off. New growth is possible in your individual lives, as well as in your relationship, and you’ll each feel as if you’re on the edge of something wonderful. It’s something that will certainly add to your joy.

Aquarius Horoscope
Aquarius Horoscope (Jan 20 – Feb 18)

Mercury, the ruler of your romance sector, is now touring your 11th house of friends and groups. On Tuesday, Mercury will connect beautifully to Uranus — your ruling planet. What does this all mean for your love life? Intellectual sparks, of course! A social event you attend early in the week for pleasure or humanitarian purposes might lead to a chance meeting with someone special. If you’re scheduled to give a speech, lecture or presentation, do pay attention to your audience. Someone may be vying for eye contact.

Pisces Horoscope
Pisces Horoscope (Feb 19 – Mar 20)

Matters of the heart will be decidedly spiritual this week, and that’s just how you like it! With Jupiter touring your romance sector, the opportunity to find the love of your life if single is truly spectacular. On Thursday, Jupiter will align with Saturn, the planet of stability and commitment. You could make a love connection during a spiritual retreat, while studying a topic important to you or through a connection with one of your mentors. Soul mate love is possible now, not just in your dreams, but also in your reality.

Are You Ready, Here They Are – Winter Love Horoscopes for 2013

Winter Love Horoscopes 2013

Keep your love life burning strong while the temperature drops…

Maria DeSimone  Maria DeSimone on the topics of love, horoscopes, winter, astrology

 

We love to get warm with a sweetie in winter and this one’s is almost perfect for patient people. New relationships can take some time to heat up with amorous Venus turning retrograde on December 21. This alluring planet’s reversal period lasts until January 31, making this an excellent period to make repairs in your current relationship. Getting clearer about what you want with Venus in responsible Capricorn might not sound sexy, but could provide the magic to revive passion with your partner or put you on track to connecting with someone new.

Taking that first step toward addressing a problem or breaking the ice may be done cautiously with supposedly aggressive Mars on his best behavior in super polite Libra. Signals could be misread when we’re so concerned about rubbing someone the wrong way, which is why clarity is a must. Strong desires expressed graciously are bound to overcome obstacles and soften the hardest hearts.

Aries (March 21 – April 19)

The good news this season is that your passionate planet Mars is in your 7th House of Partners all winter, increasing your chances for making romantic connections. The bad news is that it’s in restrained Libra, which can slow down your pursuit of pleasure. Dealing with indecisive people or having to tiptoe around someone’s sensitivity could put a damper on spontaneity. But in exchange for having less dramatic encounters you should be more strategic in going after who and what you want. Just be charming and considerate of others and you’ll be amazed at how a seemingly cool relationship can turn into a very hot one. December ends on a passionate note with intense Mars aspects from December 25 until the New Year. Yet even if you miss opportunities to play then, Mars forms sexy squares with his alluring partner Venus on January 16 and March 2 that should spice up your personal life when the mood could change from feisty to flirty in an instant, transforming a moment of conflict into one of sweet delight.

Taurus (April 20 – May 20)

Expecting more from your relationship life might be exactly how you need to think to make sure that get what you want this winter. Your lovely ruling planet Venus is in serious Capricorn where she rewards you for having ambitious plans but could leave you out in the cold of disappointment if you settle for less. This serious sign rewards you for aiming high and being persistent in pursuit of your personal goals. Putting in more effort will get you more joy from your current partnership or open to door to someone new. Venus’ transit is in your 9th House of Travel, which helps you to find love when you’re out of town or connecting with people from different cultures. It can take more time than usual to warm up with the love planet in such a serious sign, yet slowing down and enjoying the process of seduction will make it even more satisfying. Being respected, and being with someone you respect doesn’t sound erotic, but could be keys to building and maintaining the passion you seek.

Gemini (May 21 – June 20)

You are very likely to have the magical support of sexy Mars to keep your romantic life active this winter. This passionate planet settled into your 5th House Self-Expression on December 7 and, lucky you, will stay there until next July. Getting attention comes more easily with this extra long transit, increasing your opportunities for making connections. In fact, you could be so desirable that your challenge will be about making choices among potential partners. If you’re in a relationship, it’s a signal that you can recover the fun and feelings that attracted you two to one another in the first place. Normally aggressive Mars is in cool and gracious Libra, allowing you to take the initiative in personal matters without coming on too strong and to skillfully back out of commitments that no longer touch your heart. The last week of December could be a little edgy with power struggles a possibility, but applying your considerable social skills can calm even the tensest situations as you head into the New Year rich with promise for partnerships and pleasure.

Cancer (June 21 – July 22)

Expect more activity in your personal life with the energizing Sun occupying your two primary houses of partnership from December 21 to February 18. Although this is meant to increase your confidence and creativity, you might be tempted to step back and let others take the lead. This is not recommended because your chances for getting the love and affection you want increase when you’re running the show. The Sun in authoritative Capricorn until January 19 says that you need to be the boss unless you want to be bossed around. Taking charge in relationships isn’t about being a bully, but is about you being clear about your expectations and commitments. Sure, you can be sweet and accommodating, but only after you’ve established some rules. This is followed by a solar shift into cool Aquarius and your 8th House of Intimacy, which begins a month of emotional experimentation. Attraction to an unconventional person or seeking more space in your current partnership will surprise you by showing that the freer you feel the safer it will be to get closer to someone.

Leo (July. 23 – Aug. 22)

Work is likely to take precedence over romance until the Sun enters your 7th House of Partners on January 18. This solar shift into quirky Aquarius reduces your sense of social pressure, allowing you to feel at ease with unusual people and in unpredictable situations. Being more playful and relaxed in your current relationship or with someone new means that you don’t have to put on a show to be loved. By keeping connections friendly you’re free to enjoy the moment without worrying too much about the future. But if you’re missing the passion and drama that often comes with romance, you are likely to find it starting on February 18 when the Sun enters super sensitive Pisces and your 8th House of Intimacy. It’s a great time to surrender to your most tender emotions and plunge into feelings that melt any barriers with others. While it’s true that you could get lost in romantic fantasies during the subsequent 30 days, the delight of merging your body, mind and soul with a caring and compassionate individual could almost seem like finding heaven on earth.

Virgo (Aug. 23 – Sept. 22)

Winter begins with the solar move into responsible Capricorn on December 21, which is also when the Sun starts its 30-day stay in your 5th House of Romance. It’s time to take charge of your personal life by initiating contacts and organizing activities. As long as you don’t come across as too bossy you’re planning and determination can restore excitement to an ongoing alliance or open the door to a new one. Your self-confidence is particularly appealing, but the next significant step toward relationship fulfillment requires a much softer and subtle approach. This begins with the Sun’s shift into tender Pisces and your 7th House of Partners on January 18. Setting aside rigid rules and breaking down barriers of control and authority are needed to deepen a personal connection. Being compassionate to others is a plus as long as you don’t wind up with someone who won’t take responsibility for her or himself. Pity is not the same as love, no matter how much it softens your heart. But sharing dreams and showing vulnerability with a sensitive individual can bring you closer together than ever.

Libra (Sept. 23 – Oct. 22)

You could be running hot and cold in your approach to relationships this season. Whether it’s your own emotional changes or outside circumstances that are shifting from passion to indifference, this is likely to be a period of extremes. Your amorous planet Venus turns retrograde in serious Capricorn on December 21, which can slow down progress in your personal life and, perhaps, revive interest in someone from your past. The pace should pick up again when she returns to forward motion on January 31, but a major boost in pleasure and popularity starts when Venus enters friendly Aquarius and your 5th House of Romance on March 5. But even while you’re waiting for this sexy transition, energetic Mars is in your sign until July. Its presence in Libra and your 1st House of Personality could spark impatience or a sudden attraction, yet it also provides you with the motivation to take the initiative in relationships. The best part is that your ability to be pushy in polite ways lets you take the lead with the one you’re with or pursuing someone new without appearing overly aggressive.

Scorpio (Oct. 23 – Nov. 21)

Winter starts with a bang as your traditional ruling planet Mars blasts into explosive aspects with volatile Uranus on December 25 and intense Pluto on December 30 that can rock your world. Breaking free from restrictive situations is a possible benefit, but holding onto resentment and failing to make your position clear will slow down your love life in the New Year. So the key to making this a season of romance comes from taking a step back from your emotions and looking at your situation with a little bit of logic. Yes, you may have to make some compromises, but a good friend will provide the advice and support you need to handle intense issues in a calm and cool manner. Besides, you don’t need to attract a lot of attention to get what you want now. Quiet, behind-the-scenes connections could be especially delicious. On February 18 the conscious, creative and confident Sun starts a 30-day visit to your 5th House of Romance. Just add a big dose of imagination, a pinch of idealism and a dash of compassion to make some loving magic happen.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22 – Dec. 21)

Work comes before pleasure early this winter. It starts with the Sun in responsible Capricorn and your 2nd House of Worth where you can build your self-confidence and increase your appeal to others. Commitment to developing your talents and taking care of your body will have a major impact on your desirability, so make them your priorities. The Sun’s shift into friendly Aquarius and your chatty 3rd House on January 18 lightens your mood and increases your chances to connect with people. This is an easygoing transit that encourages conversations and attracts interesting individuals. You may need some variety, though, to get your emotions flowing. If you have a partner, look for some new interests to restore passion to your lives. If you’re single, exploring different groups and organizations could lead to meeting someone new. Your tender side starts showing as of February 18, a time when you may be less interested in going out with friends and more satisfied staying home with one caring person. If you trust someone, don’t be shy about showing your soft side since sharing this kind of sensitivity invites intimacy.

Capricorn (Dec. 22 – Jan. 19)

The season starts out slowly as the love planet Venus stops dead in its tracks on December 21. This retrograde turn occurs in Capricorn, which can encourage you to step back from a relationship. You don’t have to end a partnership, if you have one, but it’s certainly a time to review and rethink your commitment to it. By January 31, when Venus goes forward again, you should be totally clear about what you want. If you’re single, this reversal period is useful for reconnecting with an old lover and getting sentimental about the past. Making adjustments to your appearance and approach to romance are excellent ways to use this transit. The Capricorn New Moon on January 1 joins transformational Pluto, reminding you to let go of beliefs, behavior and people that aren’t helping you find happiness. Even if you’re feeling edgy around the Full Moon on January 15, be patient and trust yourself to make responsible romantic decisions. Sexy Venus-Mars squares on January 16 and March 2 can arouse your desires and might even turn a disagreement into an erotic connection.

Aquarius (Jan. 20 – Feb. 18)

You might feel like you’re being left out of the fun when winter starts. The life-giving Sun and romantic Venus are both in serious Capricorn and your 12th House of Invisibility then. Getting attention isn’t easy, but you might enjoy more private time for yourself or to share with one undemanding individual. Being less direct about expressing your desires makes sense until the solar shift into Aquarius and your 1st House of Personality on January 18. That should increase your confidence and visibility, but there still may be unfinished relationship business that keeps you from getting exactly what you want. Working to please yourself, though, is a good way to ensure happiness and make you more desirable to others. Then, on March 5, the love planet Venus glides into your friendly sign to give you more sparkle and appeal. People are likely to notice and appreciate you then with new forms of fun and stimulation arriving on the 18th. A favorable alignment between alluring Venus and your innovative planet Uranus makes this a time of unusual pleasures and unexpected joy.

Pisces (Feb. 19 – March 20)

A key relationship theme for you this season is the ongoing need to keep negotiating with others. Sure, you’re more inclined to find agreement with people, to keep your mouth shut or just to walk away from the situation. However, putting in the effort to discuss and debate difficult issues is worth the effort. Passionate Mars is in Libra and your 8th House of Intimacy where it rewards you for diplomatically stating your case, listening to what others say and coming up with a compromise to keep your connection alive and healthy. This can also be a seductive transit as you’re ability and instinct to charm almost everyone you encounter is strong. Of course, that could send out misleading signals, so be clear about your intentions and behavior to avoid attracting someone who doesn’t really appeal to you. The Sun’s entry into your sign on February 18 will provide you with more confidence and creativity, which will make you more visible to others. This can give you extra energy to put into your current relationship or provide the will to pursue a new one.

Your Daily Cosmic Calendar for December 9th

Although Mars and Venus are attempting to support your efforts across the board, anticipate the manifestation of some kind of test or crisis environment during the first half of the day. Mars forming an inspirational, 72-degree rapport with Jupiter (3:35AM) can offer buoyant feelings and an exuberant mind-set while a Sun-Venus parallel (9:29AM) represents a cornucopia of potential riches — socially, artistically, and in matters of the heart.  However, the Moon contra-parallel to Mars (6:15AM), the First Quarter Sun-Moon Phase (activating 18 degrees of Sagittarius and Pisces at 7:13AM) and a Moon parallel to Mars (8:41PM) are a trio of discordant alignments that can undermine your stability. Try to cut through apparent obstacles in your path around the time-period when the First Quarter Sun-Moon Phase is exact.  One extra hopeful cosmic signature today comes in the form of a Grand Triangle in water signs — composed of the Moon in Pisces trine to Saturn in Scorpio (7:54AM) and Jupiter in Cancer (9:09AM). The more you can see the big picture of life right now, the greater the chance you will find a way to fulfill your higher destiny on Spaceship Earth. This Moon, Saturn and Jupiter geometric pattern also points the way to this Thursday’s Jupiter-Saturn trine of 120-degrees — a positive aspect that can help you make great progress in reaching long-sought professional goals.  Be aware that the Moon makes a supportive, 60-degree tie with Venus at 10:42PM, but this favorable alliance starts a void lunar uncertainty cycle that lasts until 5:07AM tomorrow when the Moon enters fiery Aries. Refrain from making big decisions overnight. [Note to readers: All times are calculated for Pacific Standard 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 Moon for December 9th

Calendar of the Moon

9 Ruis/Poseideon

Day of Arawn

Colors: Black and brown
Element: Earth
Altar: Upon a black cloth lay four bowls of incense, a goblet of clear liquor, and the figures of black dogs and black horses.
Offerings: Resist a temptation. Keep a promise.
Daily Meal: Game birds, such as duck or turkey.

Invocation to Arawn

Dark Lord of Annwfn,
Keeper of the Country of the Black Sun,
King of the Land Under the Earth,
Grey-Cloaked, Silver-Tongued,
Rider of the Pale Horse,
We call your name into the echoing silence.
(All whisper: “Arawn, Arawn, Arawn!”)
You are the tester of those who believe
They are the image of honor;
Your silver tongue guides us deeper
Into the swamps of our illusions
Until we find ourselves hunted down
By the fierce howling of your hounds,
And we learn truth, hard truth, running
Like a rabbit through the thorns.
(All whisper: “Arawn, Arawn, Arawn!”
Your hounds were pilfered
And yet your judgment dogs our guilty heels.
Your deer were stolen
And yet your truth follows us fleet of foot.
Your lapwing bird cries in our ears
A song of accusation that we cannot shut out.
Your swine were stolen
And yet it is we who must learn to sacrifice.
(All whisper: “Arawn, Arawn, Arawn!”)
Guardian of the Ancestral Tree,
Master Hunter who moves in shadow,
Whose doors are the wild springs of the wood,
May we never mistake your tests
For mere random cruelty,
Lest we lose the wisdom to be found
In the dark depths of your implacable eyes.
(All whisper: “Arawn, Arawn, Arawn!”)
Let us drink from your bitter cauldron,
Let us bow in respect and reverence
Before you and your dread lady
Whose cold hand we dare not touch;
Let us learn to keep our promises,
To resist the temptation to think
That we know better than the Gods,
And to prove our honor in your eyes.
Bless us, Lord of Annwfn,
And may we all survive the chase
Wiser than we were when we began.

(All howl like hounds, then when silence falls, all shall kneel before the altar and think of what temptation pulls them to betray honor and vows. Each shall whisper it to Arawn, and then whisper their promise anew, to be heard and held by Him.)

[Pagan Book of Hours]

Calendar of the Sun for December 9th

Calendar of the Sun

9 Yulmonath

Evergreen Day

Color: Dark green and red
Element: Earth
Altar: Bare, with a red cloth. This is the day when evergreens are brought into the house from outside, to honor the spirits of the forest. All will go out at the beginning of Sponde and gather armloads of them, and bring them in to be laid in great heaps upon the altar.
Offerings: Put food outside for the forest spirits.
Daily Meal: Vegetarian

Evergreen Invocation

Hail to the Spirits of the Wild!
Hail to the life of the trees
Who do not sleep, but are awake and alive
Even through the coldest of winters!
Hail to the oldest, those who stood their watch
Long before tender leaves grew
On the branches of your descendants.
Hail to you who show us life
Even in the midst of death,
Hail to you who give us scent
Even in the midst of sleeping.
Hail to you who give the creatures
Of the wild their winter sustenance
And shelter among your branches.
Hail to the Wild Men, the spirits
Who danced through the houses of our ancestors
Bringing your blessings to the people.
Now we shall warm you in our home,
Until the time comes that you shall warm us.

Song: Evergreen: Song for the Wild Men

(All shall then take the evergreen branches and disperse them through the house, making wreath and garlands and hanging them wherever the blessings of the wild spirits are needed. A Yule tree is decorated on this day, with symbols of our faith.)

[Pagan Book of Hours]

Current Moon Phase for December 9th – First Quarter

First Quarter Moon

(waxing/47% of Full)

Emotions begin to stir coupled with recognizing that the new beginnings you are making must also increase personal security to be worthwhile over the long haul. This is a time when it’s appropriate to get in touch with your gut instincts and begin to guide your life more deliberately, with an awareness of using your “sixth sense” as well as your enthusiasm. Obstacles may emerge that require you to reevaluate how to better integrate yourself into your immediate environment.

The Witches Magick For December 9th – Three-Stone Home Magick

The Witches Magick For December 9th

Three-Stone Home Magick

Cast this spell to bring more harmony and happiness into your home by way of benevolent faeries.

You will need three small white stones you find in nature.

At 6:07 p.m., draw a magick circle and call in the elements. Hold each of the three stones in your power hand, one at a time, and face your altar. Take a deep, complete breath in and out. Merge with the faeries and charge each of the stones by saying:

“Blessed be, blessed three moon and star stones,
Please bring harmony and happiness to my home.”

Now, slowly spin clockwise three times. When you are done spinning say:

“Helpful, bright, and friendly faeries
Please bring harmony and happiness to my home
Ayea, Ayea, Ayea, blessed fae! So Be It!

Sit or stand quietly in the middle of your circle and imagine the helpful powers of the earth, air, fire, and water faeries bringing more harmony and joyful happiness to your home forever and a day. Do this for at least fifteen minutes, then offer the stones to the faeries by placing them gently on the ground beneath a flower, bush or tree. As you do, repeat with each stone:

Blessed be, blessed three moon and star stones
Please bring harmony and happiness to my home.

Let’s Talk Witch – Pagan symbols for Yule Tree

Let’s Talk Witch – Pagan symbols for Yule Tree

Besides Holly berries and leaves, apples, winter birds, fairies,
lights, snowflakes, candles, stags, suns, moons, gingerbreadmen,
mistletoe, acorns, bayberry and cranberry garlands, wreaths, Father
Winters, Santas, and many more? Even the Christ child in the Nativity
set has a Pagan equivalent, although most neo-Pagans I know refuse to
decorate with anything reminding them of a Christian Nativity.

Quite literally, this holiday more than most was lifted from the old
Pagan European holiday, and there is very little that isn’t
appropriate to both Christian and neo-Pagan celebrations of it.

Mirrored Glass Globes to Amaterasu? Balls etched with Holly leaves, candles, wreaths and birds abound in the stores. If you start now, you
can have clove covered pomanders ready for the tree to assure a nice
spicy smell. Have fun, and take another look at the decorations in the
stores.

Celebrating Other Spirituality 365 Days a Year – Ama-Terasu

December 8th and 9th

Ama-terasu

At this time of the year, the ancient and most important of all the Shinto divinities, Ama-terasu is honored. Ama-terasu is the daughter of Izanagi and Izanami, the Gods of creation, who gave birth to the islands of Japan. So bright and great was her luster, Ama-terasu was sent to heaven to govern humanity. Laster she was jointed by her brother Tsuki-Yumi the Moon God. Ama-terasu is the supreme deity of the ordinary people and of the royal family. The Emperor is descended from her grandson and is the high priest of her cult.

Today is Moon’s Day – “Moon’s Day” Manidagar

Today is Moon’s Day – “Moon’s Day” Manidagar

Monday, “Moon’s Day” governs the emotions, wildlife, fertility and the life giving waters. In some traditions, the Moon may be attributed to a God or Goddess.

“Moon’s Day” or “Manidagar” as it is known in Old Norse governs the emotions, wildlife, and the giving waters. This day honors the God/dess, the moon cycles, the tides, and our feelings. This is a good day to honor the God/dess within. This Rune is called Lagu (OE), Laguz (G), or Logr (ON).

Many God/dess orientated Study Groups and Meta- physical Groups often meet on Mondays. It is good day to organize and plan for the rest of the week as well. IN THE NORSE AND GERMANIC TRADITIONS, THE MOON IS ALWAYS MASCULINE! In Norse, the Moon is “Mani.” Mani’s sister is Sol, the Sun. Sol is pursued by a wolf and Mani is pursued by Hati, who will catch him at Ragnorok and devour him. This is why the wolf is called Managarmr ‘devourer of Mani.’

This can also be a day of creativity drawing upon ones imagination and also a day of psychic awareness.

The Witches Correspondences for Monday, December 9th

The Witches Correspondences for Monday, December 9th

Magickal Intentions: Psychic Sensitivity, Women’s Mysteries, Tides, Waters, Emotional Issues, Agriculture, Animals, Female Fertility, Messages, Theft, Reconciliations, Voyages, Dreams and Merchandise
Incense: African Violet, Honeysuckle, Myrtle, Willow, Wormwood
Planet: Moon
Sign: Cancer
Angel: Gabriel
Colors: Silver, White and Gray
Herbs/Plants: Night Flowers, Willow Root, Orris Root, Birch, Motherwort, Vervain, White Rose and White Iris
Stones: Carnelian, Moonstone, Aquamarine, Pearl, Clear Quartz, Fluorite, Geodes
Oil: (Moon) Jasmine, Lemon, Sandalwood

Monday belongs to the Moon. Monday’s energy best aligns itself with efforts that deal with women, home and hearth, the family, the garden, travel, and medicine. It also boosts rituals involving psychic development and prophetic dreaming.

The Witches Almanac for Monday, December 9th

The Witches Almanac for Monday, December 9th

Monday (Moon): Peace, sleep, healing, compassion, friends, psychic awareness, purification and fertility.

St. Leocadia’s Day

Waxing Moon

The Waxing Moon is the ideal time for magick to draw things toward you.

Moon Phase: Second Quarter 10:12 am

Moon Sign: Pisces

Pisces: The focus is on dreaming, nostalgia, intuition and psychic impression. A good time for spiritual or philanthropic activities.

Incense:  Hyssop

Color: Green

Mother Nature Can Be Fickle

Winter Comments & Graphics

Mother Nature Can Be Fickle

Winter’s cold is Mother Nature’s way
Of saying, lie with me now, lay your head on my breast
It’s snow, a blanket under which to lay
Neath a crystal cover, enjoying winter’s cold caress

Frost rimed windows … Mother Nature’s art
Icy abstractions painted with frosty finesse
Crystalline concoctions that form only a part
Of Mother Natures wonderful winter largesse

Ice coated limbs of slope shouldered trees
droop drowsily down as if fallen asleep
Unable to sway in winter’s frigid breeze
Appear as white mounds, when the snow drifts deep

The stillness one hears on cold winter nights
Broken by the sudden crack of ice laden boughs
The ethereal essence of undulating northern lights
Headlights in the sky for Nature’s snowplows

All is withdrawn, in awe of Nature’s might
Willingly waiting, deep neath frozen ground
Safely sequestered, from winter’s cruel bite
In warm tunnels and burrows, til spring comes around

Mother Nature invites winter into her domain Cohabits with coldness, wantonly sleeps with Jack frost
Yet finds cold winter quickly falls to disdain
Invites in the spring…and tells winter to get lost

Mother Nature is fickle…and also the boss!

—–David Whalen