Month: December 2013

Becoming a Witch

Becoming a Witch

by Morgaine

© Morgaine 2001.

This article may be reproduced for non-commercial purposes, providing that this original copyright notice stays in place at all times.

I am often asked how one becomes a witch. Do you find someone who is a witch and they make you one? Or are you a witch just by saying you are? Can you  make yourself a witch?

The process of becoming a witch doesn’t happen overnight. It is a life change, a new path upon the journey of your life. It takes consideration, study  and work. If you have previously followed a mainstream religion, you may have things that take time to let go, and new things that take time to absorb. I  have heard many people say it is often hard, coming from a life of Christianity, to feel comfortable praying to the Goddess. All new things take time, but if  you are serious upon this path, you will find your way. The Gods call their own home to them.

No matter how you have came about finding the Old Religion, here you are. So where do you go? To the book store. For a novice, books are like the air you  breathe. You must have them, or access to them in some way. If you cannot afford, or do not feel safe having books on the Craft, the internet is the next  best place.

In both books and on the internet you will find a wealth of knowledge that will help guide you upon your new path. Of course, as with anything else, there  is good information and bad information. Avoid any kind of book, or internet site, that speaks of controlling another person in any way, harming them, doing  love spells on a specific person, or tells you to chant in latin, even though you have no idea what you are saying (yes, I have seen sites like that). These  books/sites will not fulfill your need for knowledge in the Craft and will only serve to confuse you.

Once you have read a variety of books and feel called to this path, the next step is to find a teacher. If you have access to a teacher, in my opinion  this is the best course of action. A teacher or a coven can often be found if there is a new age book store in your community. Also, the Witches Voice is a  site that offers networking in every state. It has grown extremely large over the past few years and is a valuable resource in the Craft community. All of my  coven members have found me on the Witches Voice.

Having a mentor can offer so much to you when you are beginning. There will be things you come across that you have a hard time understanding and need  clarification. If you have a teacher, they are just a phone call or email away. If you do not, you must try to decifer things on your own, and may not come  to the correct end on them. If you do not have a teacher, again, the internet is the next best place to look.

If you are only looking for a ‘how to’ on casting spells, then the Craft is not for you. Witchcraft is a serious spiritual path, in which magick  is performed, but is secondary to the religion itself. I would suggest you look to ceremonial magick for that.

A couple of things need to be said about beginning this path, in light of recent attitudes about the Craft. Here lately it seems that you have a people  who, after reading a few books, feel as if they can call themselves a master of the Art. They throw on a title like Lady/Lord, or HP/s, add some black  clothes, a pentacle the size of a hubcap, and they are ready to go. This is not what the Craft is about. If you have spent years following a particular path,  have worked hard for the spiritual lessons that have been presented to you, and through this have attained the title and rank, then by all means use it. But  think of how you would feel if, after all that, you have a newbie with 6 months and 5 books unde their belt walking about calling themselves Lady Starry Ski  or Lord Thunderbutt. It is very offensive. Just like your parents told you when you were growing up (or maybe you still are) ‘don’t rush things, it  will all come to you in the end, and be sweeter for the waiting’. This is true with the Craft. Using titles, putting on airs, and in general acting high  and mighty are not going to make you any more spiritual. And that is what this path is about. What it will do is alienate you from people whom you may  actually want to meet and get to know!

All of this being said the way to become a witch is through study and dedication. Gather all of the information you can. Find the best teacher possible.  Read whatever you can get your hands on. Go outside in nature and commune with the Goddess and God. Listen to the trees and the wind and the rush of the  water, for this is the witch’s world.

Ask These Questions Before You Cast

Ask these questions before you cast a spell:

1) Have I done everything I can to resolve the situation without magic?
Try all the mundane methods of attaining your goals before resorting to spellcraft. If you want a job, send out your resume before you break out the green candles and patchouly. If you want to meet someone special, try reading the personals or signing up for an adult ed class before you reach for the aphrodisiacs. If you’re having conflict with someone at work, try talking to them about the problem before you go looking up binding spells. As one experienced witch put it to me, “this way, you can be sure that your intentions are pure.”
2) Will this spell harm another, or bend someone’s will to mine?
Witches do not cast spells meant to harm someone else. Nor do they cast spells on other people without their permission, no matter how honorable their intentions. There’s a good reason for this: harmful and meddlesome spells have a nasty tendency to backfire on the people who cast them.
When you’re watching someone close to you suffering, it can be hard to consider the situation objectively. One reader asked me about spells to help alleviate anger. When I dug deeper, it turned out that spellcraft was entirely inappropriate. If possible, discuss the matter with another trusted pagan friend. 
3) Am I prepared to accept the consequences of this spell, whatever they might be?
Think long and hard about this one. As I’ve said before, you may cast a spell with the best of intentions, but end up with unexpected consequences. Meditate a bit on it before you decide to cast the spell. Talk to other witches and see if there isn’t a better solution.
Either way, your spell has a better chance of success if you fully “own” it, and anything that results from it. The best way to avoid unforseen consequences is to follow the guidelines set out above — and, most importantly, to cast the spell with love in your heart. Making magick is a powerful and transformative experience. In the midst of the spell, you become the subject, and you become the result. Make sure that what you’re asking for is something you’d like to become.
Remember, the most powerful tool a witch has is their mind. As we can only perceive reality, we can bend it by changing states of consciousness. The universe is like a web, we can change the strands, and we can even break them with our magick. Be careful of what you do. Before every magickal working ask yourself:
‘Do I dare disturb the fragile energies of the universe?’
A spell cast on someone without their permission can be considered as manipulative magick. Even when the best of thoughts are at heart, you must tell them your intentions, or deal with the consequences. Sometimes it isn’t possbile to tell someone you want to cast a healing spell on them,so outweight the benefits to the negative consequences.
A spell which bends will or binds it to yours is completely WRONG. Do not perform them unless absolutely necessary, and by that I only mean bindings and transformations, and if you have no other alternatives, banishings. If you are under some sort of physcial attack, for example abuse, rape or harassment, see the police immediately, do not attempt to bend their will through a spell.
A spell cast to harm someone is just as wrong as bending their will, if not more so. Do not cast a spell to cause ill to a convited murderer, a friend who has gosspped about you, no matter what the magnitude. If it is a felony or illegal under law, get the law enforcers involed. Remember you human rights, and theirs also.
A spell which is personal gain is OK *AS LONG AS* you do not demand too much. Be careful for what you    ask for, you just might get it.

Why Spells Don’t Always Work

WHY  SPELLS DON’T ALWAYS WORK

Spell casting, in and of itself, is not difficult. Generally, it follows an
easy formula with separate and distinct steps. A spell is a procedure to
follow to reach a desired end. It does not require a great deal of money, a
huge compendium of tools, or exotic ingredients to work. It does require
faith in yourself and a commection with deity.
When describing spells to non-magickal people, a witch will often tell them
that a spell is much like a prayer. You are calling upon divinity to assist
you, as in a prayer, but a spell requires more than just pleading to divinity
to help you out of a jam. In a spell YOU are an active ingredient. Your
faith and your knowledge are as important as understanding there is divinity
out there to call upon.
Many of you have already heard of the Witches’ Pyramid, the foundation of our magickal acts: To Know, To Will, To Dare, and To Be Silent. This pyramid is  the underlying structure of any spell formula.
To Know 
Before you can cast a spell, you need to know who you are. Ego aside, you
have to come to terms with who you are, how you operate, and why you do the things you do.
The second thing you must know is precisely what you want. This is not as
easy as it seems. People rarely sit back and consider what they really want
out of life. Part of this is because they are afraid. They fear they may not
get what they want, and they fear that they will fail. These fears stop us
from knowing.
For example, time and time again people I know have spelled for love. They
have not done the ultimate no-no by targeting a specific person, but they do
something just as bad–they don’t really know what they ultimately want.
When they get what they spelled for, often they are disappointed, because
there is something attached to that new lover they didn’t think of.
Therefore, all spells must be specific.
One of the best ways to begin a working is to write out, in detail, exactly
what you want in one straight line on a piece of paper. Underneath,
phonetically begin to pare each word down. Underneath that line, pare the
words down again. Continue this procedure until only one letter from each
word is left. Interlock the few remaining letters into a sigil. Use this
sigil in whatever magickal application you have chosen to ensure your spell
remains specific.
To Will  
Another stumbling block in spell casting is lack of will, whether it is will
power, belief, or conviction. Will depends on how badly you want to make a
change. Do you believe you are capable of making the change, or do you think
it is only wishful thinking? Are you willing to re-program your mind, your
environment, your relationships, in order to bring about ther change you
desire? Without will, a spell will fizzle. Is your mind fogged with doubt,
or unnecessary problems that will prevent bringing about the change you say
you want?
One of the best techniques for increasing your will power is the use of
meditation on a daily basis. Once you have learned to relax, use the alpha
state to program the events you wish to come to pass. You should work on
both short-term and long-term goals.
Another technique that is useful in spell casting is to write down why you
wish to manifest something. Let this explanation sit on your altar
overnight, then re-read it. Does it make sense? Is this what you really
want? Does your reasoning still appear firm, or is it full of holes?
Are you patient? Patience has a lot to do with will. Once you have a firm
grip on “will,” you are a third of the way through on accurate spell casting.
To Dare  
To dare means you are not inclined to sit around on your laurels. It means
that you are not choosing to procrastinate, rather you are choosing to move
with purpose. To dare indicates that you are no longer afraid of the
outcome, or fear failure. You are confident that you control your own
destiny to the point where you won’t even argue about it, either with someone
else, or yourself.
Although “to dare” doesn’t appear to create a lot of work, it does require
you to make an active decision. This is the next catalyst for your magickal
operation. From here, you will plan the appropriate day, hour, moon phase,
astrological energies, and tools required for working magick,including what
divinity you will choose. To dare can lead to a great deal of work and
preparation.
To Be Silent  
Even if you are an adept, you should learn to be quiet about your magickal
operations. There is only one exception, which is when you are working with
a group. If the group mind is actively participating on a project they
should be informed of their success or failure.
In the beginning, you should be silent so that you are not affected by
others’ opinions. Don’t tell them what you are performing magick for, as you
risk failure. Why? Because they can unconsciously affect you with their
disbelief or negativity.
Likewise, once you become proficient at spell casting, don’t announce
it–especially to a novice. No real adept will ever tell a novice that “My
spells always work.” Not only is it rude, it is also untrue. Everyone
fails. Imagine what a novice would think if they knew you lost your job,your
kids are running rampant, and you are deeply in debt. If your spells always
worked, you would not be in such a fix, would you? Foolish words can ruin
your reputation, which in turn, will ruin your own self-confidence.
Therefore, keep your trap shut–this ensures success in your magickal
operations as well as keeping your reputation intact. No one likes a
braggart, and no one considers an egotistical Witch a good leader or cleric.
When Spell’s Fail  
Try this chant
Oh God/dess (whoever you worship) I am not worthy of    
your perfect grace, nor the magick i find within myself    
and within you. I ask now in Just, for i have grown weak    
that thou would accompany me in rituals and spells.    
Be By my side in this time of need. I do not deserve you    
Oh God/dess. but still I ask, for i am only but a mortal    
Oh God/dess, Bless me!    
Oh God/dess, accompany me!    
Oh God/dess, Shine light upon me!    
Oh God/dess, grant me wisdom!    
Oh God/dess, Grant me Humility!    
Oh God/dess, Stay with me!    
Oh God/dess, Protect me from evil!    
Oh God/dess, I love thee above all things!    
Please Oh ancient ones, hear me!    
Amen

Basic Spell Construction

 

BASIC SPELL CONSTRUCTION

 

Write your own spells

Because of the very nature of Magick, each working should be highly individualized and personal. Even if following a traditional spell, it should be tailored to your specific needs to be most effective for you. Understanding the basics of Spell Construction will enable you to formulate your own specific, effective spells for any purpose you desire.

Preliminary planning is necessary. The very first step is to decide precisely what your desired end result is to be. Before you can start, you must decide where you are going. You must be very explicit.

Flowing with these currents will make your magickal work much easier.

Remember to plan your project for a time of uninterrupted privacy.

It is important that you have no distractions. Generally speaking, it is best to work as late at night as possible. A time when there is less frantic energy is most appropriate. You might consider Midnight or later.

In choosing a place to do your magickal working pay particular attention to your needs, for you must be comfortable. Your place should be private, quiet and secure. If at all possible, set aside a special place for this purpose only. An unused room, a special corner of your bedroom, a quiet, secluded spot in your garden. A place that is yours. A place that you can come to whenever need arises and that is as free from intrusion of others as possible.

Prior to the night of your magickal working, gather together the things that you will need. All of the things used are tools. They have no inherent magick. They are to help you create a mood. If correctly made and used, they will trigger primitive responses from deep within you. They should be chosen with care.

Consider the purpose of your ritual and choose your tools accordingly. If your magick is to be sexual, your candles, oils, incenses and so forth, should bring forth a sexual response. If the desired result of your Magick is Tranquillity, then the tools should make you feel calm, peaceful and serene. Any candles you might use should not have commercially added fragrances as these may not be appropriate for your working.

Prior to your ritual, prepare yourself and your equipment by any means necessary to clean and purify. Historically, people have fasted, followed meticulous and detailed bathing practices, practiced chastity and used many other methods.

Most often a Ritual Bath is the preferred method. A bath frequently utilizing candlelight, fragrant herbs, bath salts or sensuous oils.

A sumptuous hot bath, special bathing preparations and appropriate lighting, combined, can create the soothing effect which will help in the very important step of relaxing and clearing the mind completely of all mundane thoughts and experiences of the day. Your ritual Bath should, also, begin to set the specific vibrations conducive to your purpose into motion. You must not only cleanse and purify but must, also, begin to create the type of energy necessary.

Once your purification process has been accomplished, you are now ready to begin. Proceed to the special place you have previously chosen in which to perform your magick. If at all possible, you should make use of the primitive responses set into motion by a well chosen piece of music. Your music should start slowly and build to a rousing climax.

As you use your oils, light your candle or incense (or utilise any other tool you have chosen), you should begin to further intensify the energy that you have set into motion around you. A high degree of intensity is vitally important.

The Altered State of Consciousness that you must reach is not a meditative state. Anything that interferes with your ability to concentrate upon, reach and control the high energy state necessary to perform magick should be avoided. Such as, screaming children, a sink full of dirty dishes, use of alcohol or drugs, etc.

Do not scatter your energy by attempting to do more than one magickal working at a time.

Remember that Magick is the manipulation of energy, a thought is a form of energy and a visualisation is an even stronger form of energy. Your visualisation can be a method used to intensify further and direct your will. Your visualisation can be the method by which you control the magickal energy you have produced.

You must know what you want. You must see it. You must feel the high energy flow. You must direct it.

One of the most important elements in the practice of any form of Magick is the Universal Law of Cause and Effect. This means that whatever you do (or don’t do) you cause something to happen.

The most important consideration is the Universal Law of Retribution. This means that no matter what you do it comes back to you in like kind.

It is the nature of things that as you send something out it gains momentum, so that, by the time it comes back to you, it is three times stronger. If you do something nice for someone, someone will do something nicer for you.

It is important, also, that you choose your time carefully. You should take into consideration all Astrological implications, energy currents and Moon phases.

The Moon is the astronomical body closest to us and, therefore, has a profound influence upon us, it is very important to choose a time when the Moon is in an astrological sign which is appropriate for your working. For example:

Aries/Action – Enthusiasm, Taurus/

Renewal – Sensuality, Gemini/Communication – Curiosity, Cancer/

Emotion – Nurturing, Leo/Vitality – Determined, Virgo/Organizing –

Studious, Libra/Balance – Co-operation, Scorpio/Sexual –

Philosophical, Capricorn/Authority – Ambitious, Aquarius/Innovation

– Social, Pisces/Sensitivity – Idealistic.

Bear in mind that magickal workings for gain, increase or bringing things to you, should be initiated when the Moon is Waxing (from Dark to Full); when the Moon is Waning (from Full to Dark), it is time for magickal workings of decrease or sending away.

The highest energy occurs at the Full Moon and, therefore, this is the most powerful time for magickal workings. The New Moon is the next most powerful time for Magick.

Whenever possible, follow Nature’s natural Energy Currents. There is a natural time for starting things (a planting time), for maturing things (a growing time), for reaping things ( a harvest time) and, of course, a time forest and planning.

 

A Little Humor for Your Day – What Things On Your Resume Really Mean

What Things On Your Resume Really Mean

I KNOW HOW TO DEAL WITH STRESSFUL SITUATIONS: I’m usually on Prozac. When I’m not, I take lots of cigarette and coffee breaks.

I SEEK A JOB THAT WILL DRAW UPON MY STRONG COMMUNICATION & ORGANIZATIONAL SKILLS: I talk too much and like to tell other people what to do.

I’M EXTREMELY ADEPT AT ALL MANNER OF OFFICE ORGANIZATION: I’ve used Microsoft Office.

I’M HONEST, HARD-WORKING AND DEPENDABLE: I pilfer office supplies.

MY PERTINENT WORK EXPERIENCE INCLUDES: I hope you don’t ask me about all the McJobs I’ve had.

I TAKE PRIDE IN MY WORK: I blame others for my mistakes.

I’M BALANCED AND CENTERED: I’ll keep crystals at my desk and do Tai Chi in the lunch room.

I HAVE A SENSE OF HUMOR: I know a lot of corny, old jokes and I tell them badly.

I’M PERSONABLE: I give lots of unsolicited personal advice to co-workers.

I’M WILLING TO RELOCATE: As I leave San Quentin, any where’s better.

I’M EXTREMELY PROFESSIONAL: I carry a Day-Timer.

MY BACKGROUND AND SKILLS MATCH YOUR REQUIREMENTS: You’re probably looking for someone more experienced.

I AM ADAPTABLE: I’ve changed jobs a lot.

I AM ON THE GO: I’m never at my desk.

I’M HIGHLY MOTIVATED TO SUCCEED: The minute I find a better job, I’m outta there.

I HAVE FORMAL TRAINING: I’m a college drop-out.

I INTERACT WELL WITH CO-WORKERS: I’ve been accused of sexual harassment.

THANK YOU FOR YOUR TIME AND CONSIDERATION: Wait! Don’t throw me away!

I LOOK FORWARD TO HEARING FROM YOU SOON: Like, I’m gonna hold my breath waiting for your stupid form letter thanking me for my interest and wishing me luck in my future career.

Funny Humor

Today’s Quiz – Is the Simple Life Right for You?

Is the Simple Life Right for You? Quiz

Many of us yearn for plain, simple surroundings where our basic needs are  supplied in very simple ways. But there are always trade-offs. There is a  paradox that comes along with simplicity: choosing a simpler life usually  entails more activity on your part.

Given the sort of person you are and the sorts of things you enjoy, do you  think simplifying your life physically would yield you greater pleasure? Here is  a quiz that will show if a radically, physically simple life would work well for  you:

1. Would you delight in the extra exercise and sensual experience involved in, for  example, chopping wood, riding a bicycle, kneading dough, sweeping, using a pole  lathe, hand-sanding old furniture?

2. Does reading about people doing those sorts of things or seeing pictures  of them give you a feeling of excitement, pleasure or envy?

3. Do you feel a yearning for more exertion and the kind of weariness that  comes at the end of a day of physical labor?

4. At those times in your life when you have done that sort of work, or when  you have shaped something by hand instead of buying it, did that feel especially  satisfying to you?

5. Do you go camping and enjoy the simplicity of a tent and a campfire (or  even a caravan) and then find yourself slightly averse to all the demands of a  modern house when you return?

6. Do you love taking trips to places far away from telephones and  television, where mobile phones don’t work?

7. Were you a boy scout or a girl guide and do you remember, with pleasurable  nostalgia, what fun it was to go tracking, to make campfires, collect firewood,  make “gadgets” by lashing sticks together?

8. Do you enjoy gardening? Cooking? Sewing? Crafts?

If you said “yes” to all or most of these questions, you are a likely  candidate for  radical, physical simplicity. If you said “no” to most of them,  you will need to think carefully before implementing anything which simplifies  your life physically. You must watch that you don’t simplify in ways which will  create chores you later come to resent. Or chores which, one day, you may be  physically unable to do. (If osteo-arthritis sets in, will you still be able to  chop wood and ride your bike?)

 

Daily Feng Shui News for Dec. 3rd – ‘Roof Over Your Head Day’

On this ‘Roof Over Your Head Day’ I thought I’d share some ages-old, ‘secret’ Feng Shui about just that. If the surrounding buildings are taller than the one you live in, then fresh Chi or energy cannot reach your abode, making for some very bad Feng Shui. Eventually, all the energy in your living space will be old and stale and attract only negative things into your life. To counteract this, Feng Shui suggests that you position a mirror on your rooftop with the reflective side facing up. This will symbolically expand your roof so that it’s now proportionate with the taller ones around you.

By Ellen Whitehurst for Astrology.com

Your Animal Spirit for December 3rd is the Black Swan

Your Animal Spirit for Today
December 3, 2013

Black Swan

Wherever the Black Swan appears in your reading you can expect unexpected and unpredictable events to majorly impact your life in that aspect.  Beyond noting that the influences Black Swan indicates will be extraordinarily large in scope, it may be difficult to tell if the fortune it foretells will be good or bad.  Black Swan affected events may begin so subtly that they are very difficult to identify.  When trying to discover what the Black Swan portends for you, look for events that do not occur in your life regularly or at all.

Your Ancient Symbol Card for December 3rd is The Eastern Dragon

Your Ancient Symbol Card for Today

The Eastern Dragon

The Eastern Dragon derives its symbolism from eons of rich, Asian culture. The Eastern Dragon is a revered creature who brings good fortune and power to those under its influence. It influences situations by supplying courage, nobility and perseverance. The Eastern Dragon is the most Yang of creatures in Chinese mythology, and represents the male character at its strongest and best.

As a daily card, The Eastern Dragon foretells a period of abundant prosperity. This is a time when your goals can not only be attained but surpassed. If you use your energy wisely, your courage with discretion, and refuse to give up your ambitions will be satisfied.

Today’s Tarot Card for December 3rd is The Sun

The Sun

Tuesday, Dec 3rd, 2013

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

What has traditionally been known as the Sun card is about the self — who you are and how you cultivate your personality and character. The earth revolves around the sun to make up one year of a person’s life, a fact we celebrate on our birthday.

The Sun card could also be titled “Back to Eden.” The Sun’s radiance is where one’s original nature or unconditioned Being can be encountered in health and safety. The limitations of time and space are stripped away; the soul is refreshed and temporarily protected from the chaos outside the garden walls.

Under the light of the Sun, Life reclaims its primordial goodness, truth and beauty. If one person is shown on this card, it is usually signifying a human incarnation of the Divine. When two humans are shown, the image is portraying a resolution of the tension between opposites at all levels. It’s as if this card is saying “You can do no wrong — it’s all to the good!”

Daily Horoscopes for Tuesday, December 3rd

Positive thinking increases our chances for success now that the high-spirited Sagittarius Moon reminds us that we can be the masters of our own destinies. We may overextend our reach because our self-confidence spurs us on to greater possibilities. Thankfully, a cooperative alignment between talkative Mercury and assertive Mars motivates us to speak clearly about our intentions. We’re inspired to take a risk in the pursuit of happiness.

Aries Horoscope

(Mar 21 – Apr 19)

The seas are calm today, you have a gentle wind in your sails and the world is your oyster. Even if you require assistance, others will come to your rescue with exactly the skills and resources you need. If someone offers help, don’t exhibit false pride; acknowledge your predicament and say yes. Ultimately, being thankful for whatever generosity you receive now allows everyone to feel good about participating in your success.

Taurus Horoscope

(Apr 20 – May 20)

If you were a dancer, you would tell exquisite stories with your movements today, but you currently prefer to rely on words to get your message across. However, rather than being passionate about sharing your ideas, you secretly wish you could be chilling out. Unfortunately, pleasure may seem far away and you probably won’t be able to avoid meeting your obligations. Thankfully, the sooner you start your chores, the quicker you will finish.

Gemini Horoscope

(May 21 – Jun 20)

You may wonder if a certain partnership is worth the trouble today, but unresolved issues seem to come together just in the nick of time. It’s easier to discuss your concerns openly now since people won’t likely take your accurate perceptions in a negative manner. Pick a subject and get the conversation rolling. Stick to the chosen topic because you cannot afford to waste energy being scattered by other people’s ideas. Tell the truth; even if your honesty temporarily raises the stress level, everything will settle back down soon enough.

Cancer Horoscope

(Jun 21 – Jul 22)

Your positive attitude has a motivating effect on your coworkers today, but your optimism could be slightly misleading. Although you might have concerns about the quality of the job you’re doing, you may still appear so sure of yourself that others don’t offer their assistance because they believe you’re on track. Be specific and clearly ask for help if required. Fortunately, the support you want will be forthcoming, but not unless you’re completely honest about what you need.

Leo Horoscope

(Jul 23 – Aug 22)

You have big ideas about relationships now, and you believe that your good intentions can overcome any obstacles. The evocative Moon’s presence in your 5th House of Creativity emphasizes your innate need for spontaneity and drama, even if it means that your actual productivity suffers today. However, obtaining tangible results may not be as important to you as sharing what’s in your heart with those you love.

Virgo Horoscope

(Aug 23 – Sep 22)

You’re pulled in two different directions today as the exuberant Sagittarius Moon encourages you to think big, while your natural instincts tell you to maintain a methodical approach when making plans. This internal conflict might make you hesitant to get too caught up in the excitement of the day, even if you want to jump in and join the fun. Keep in mind you can actually accomplish more than you realize by consciously limiting your overall expenditure of time and money. Moderation is key.

Libra Horoscope

(Sep 23 – Oct 22)

It appears that you have a busy day ahead of you, so you might not be able to truly relax until the evening when you are finally caught up with everything. People seem to infringe upon your personal space now, even if they mean well. Oddly enough, you don’t mind all the distractions today; they could even inspire you to explore new avenues of self-expression as you interact with others. Enjoy the social noise while it lasts, since tomorrow will likely be much quieter.

Scorpio Horoscope

(Oct 23 – Nov 21)

You may have ambitious plans to revamp your finances and if your goals survive today’s reality check, then you can be assured they are in the ballpark of plausibility. But if current events shake your security or stress your cash flow, set aside your big ideas and refocus your attention on the present moment. Ultimately, here and now is more important than then and there.

Sagittarius Horoscope

(Nov 22 – Dec 21)

Nothing — not even the facts — is likely to prevent you from seeing amazing possibilities in every situation today. Your opinions might be so strong now that you disbelieve what’s in front of your eyes in order to preserve the big picture. Although you can easily soar through the day, being motivated by unrealistic visions isn’t necessarily healthy. Adjust your plans willingly, based upon what you learn, instead of waiting until it’s too late.

Capricorn Horoscope

(Dec 22 – Jan 19)

Your vivid imagination spurs you on today with full-spectrum bursts of inspiration, but you can quickly see where you are overextended. Paring back your dance card is a smart strategy, since it’s better now to have one or two excellent partners rather than many mediocre ones. Your discernment is a powerful secret weapon, so use it carefully. Seek quality over quantity for the best outcome.

Aquarius Horoscope

(Jan 20 – Feb 18)

Staying on target is tricky now, because your mind naturally drifts off into the distant future. Although you feel highly creative today, following a single project through to completion is tougher than starting a new one. Don’t let others tempt you off course. Even if their activities sound like a lot of fun, abstaining from them allows you to take care of your business in a timely manner. Work now, play later.

Pisces Horoscope

(Feb 19 – Mar 20)

Displaying a more compassionate side at work may be scary today, yet it’s healthier to face your fears so you can overcome them. Others see you as the source of a much-needed solution, but you might be hesitant to share what you know. There’s no need to talk until you feel it’s totally safe to express your opinions, especially if they are still in the process of development. Your intuition will tell you when the time is right.

Daily Cosmic Calendar for December 3rd

If you are feeling happy-go-lucky in any sort of way, then play that up to the max. The reason is that a double emphasis of Sagittarius — Sun and Moon together in this potentially ebullient and achievement-oriented, 9th sign of the zodiac — only occurs for approximately two days in any calendar year. Plus, this morning’s supportive, 60-degree rapport from Mercury to Mars (8:36AM) is a clear energizer for literary, educational and athletic hobbies. Improve your tennis backhand, golf swing or volleyball serve. Consider signing up for classes, conferences or workshops that pique your interest.  Later on, the Moon forms a square aspect to the red planet Mars in Virgo (7:46PM). This feisty interaction — always occurring twice a month in either a waxing or waning phase — has the capacity to increase the tensions within the psychic atmosphere.  In addition, today’s 90-degree Moon-Mars encounter begins another void-of-course lunar experience that lasts for 3 hours until 10:50PM. Keep a low profile while the Moon is in its meandering condition and then focus your attention on career aims and professional work when the Moon enters Capricorn — the earthy, tenth sign of the zodiac at 10:50PM. [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 3rd

Calendar of the Moon

3 Ruis/Poseideion

Pandora’s Day

Colors: Grey and white
Element: Air
Altar: Upon a grey cloth set a large wooden box covered with carvings of horror, blight, and disease. It should be filled with two layers of rolled papers, separated by a cloth. The first layer is rolled papers tied with black string, which are assignments as to what offering of aid to the unfortunate should be given. The bottom layer is rolled papers tied with silver string, each of which has a saying of hope written upon it. Aside from the box, the altar should be starkly empty.
Offerings: Give aid and hope to those who are suffering outside the House. The following day should be a day of helping other organizations.
Daily Meal: Give food to others; the House fasts tonight.

Invocation to Pandora

Sweet Pandora,
Lady All-Gifted,
You were made like a toy by the Gods
To take revenge on the world,
Yet you hold your own mystery.
You were constructed with all gifts,
Yet we must never forget
That suffering, too, is a gift.
Though it may seem like the greatest of evils,
The pain that you bring hones us,
Tries us, trials us, tests our mettle,
And teaches us the limits of Life.
Help us to honor these gifts of yours,
These thorns and hails and lightning strikes,
This pain and weakness and suffering.
And help us to always remember,
Lady All-Gifted,
The final gift in the bottom of your box,
Which is hope for the future.

(All come forward and kneel before the altar. The keeper of the box says, “Choose your suffering.” One at a time, each comes forward and takes a paper from the top layer of the box. Then the keeper of the box says, “Choose hope,” and each comes forward and takes another paper from the bottom. The box is closed and all leave in silence.)

[Pagan Book of Hours]

Calendar of the Sun for December 3rd

Calendar of the Sun

3 Yulmonath

Mengloth’s Day

Color: White
Element: Earth
Altar: Upon cloth of white place a figure of Mengloth, cut from cloth and filled with herbs, a cup of herb-fortified wine, a pot of herbal tea with cups, a mortar and pestle, and bunches and jars of all the medicinal herbs in the House.
Offerings: Give natural medicine to someone.
Daily Meal: Anything healthy and well-balanced.

Invocation to Mengloth

Hail, Lady of Lyfjaberg,
Mistress of Gastropnir,
High on the highest peak
In the pure air of the north country
Atop snowy cliffs you dwell.
Lady whose roads are long and winding,
Lady whose roads are treacherous and fell,
Lady whose hidden fortress is sought
By the weak, the ill, the desperate,
Those whom all medicine has failed.
Lady of the Last Resort,
Healer of the wounds that cannot be healed,
This offering we make to you
And all the maidens that cluster around you;
Hlif and Hlifthrasa, Thjofvara, Aurboda,
Bjort and Bleik, Blith and Frith,
Colleague of Eir the Healer of Asgard.
We pray your healing hands, Jeweled One,
We pray your healing mind, Mountain-High,
We pray your healing magic shall shape us whole.
Svipdag’s beloved, Keeper of the Wand of Light,
May your favor shine upon us
As we ascend to the trials of your high road.

(The wine is poured out as a libation. Each comes forward then and pours a cup of the herbal tea, asking for healing for themselves or others, and drinks it.)

[Pagan Book of Hours]

Current Moon Phase for December 3rd – Waxing Crescent

Crescent Moon

(waxing/1% of Full)

During this Moon phase, there is a slight slowing down of enthusiasm due to an emerging desire to produce tangible results from the energy being expended. The issue of values enters into the equation and an urge to tie together the data available so that you can utilize current opportunities. There is still plenty of forward motion, and this is a great time to continue initiating and progressing forward. This Moon phase favors gaining more information and the input of others to further your plans.

The Goddess In The Kingdom Of Death

Goddess Comments & Graphics

The Goddess In The Kingdom Of Death

In this world, the Goddess is seen in the moon, the light that shines in darkness, the rain bringer, mover of the tides, Mistress of mysteries. And as the moon waxes and wanes, and walks three nights of its cycle in darkness, so, it is said, the Goddess once spent three nights in the Kingdom of Death.

For in love She ever seeks Her other Self, and once, in the winter of the year, when He had disappeared from the green earth, She followed Him and came at last to the gates beyond which the living do not go.

The Guardian of the Gate challenged Her, and She stripped Herself of Her clothing and jewels, for nothing may be brought into that land. For love, She was bound as all who enter there must be and brought before Death Himself.

He loved Her, and knelt at Her feet, laying before Her His sword and crown, and gave Her the fivefold kiss, and said,

“Do not return to the living world, but stay here with Me, and have peace and rest and comfort.”

But She answered, “Why do you cause all things I love and delight in to die and
wither away?”

“Lady,” He said, “It is the fate of all that lives to die. Everything passes; all
fades away. I bring comfort and consolation to those who pass the gates, that they may grow young again. But You are My heart’s desire — return not, but stay here with Me.”

And She remained with Him three days and three nights, and at the end of the third night She took up His crown, and it became a circlet that She placed around Her neck, saying:

“Here is the circle of rebirth. Through You all passes out of life, but through Me
all may be born again. Everything passess; everything changes. Even death is not
eternal. Mine is the mystery of the womb, that is the cauldron of rebirth. Enter
into Me and know Me, and You will be free of all fear. For as life is but a journey
into death, so death is but a passage back to life, and in Me the circle is ever
turning.”

In love, He entered into Her, and so was reborn into life. Yet is He known as Lord of Shadows, the comforter and consoler, opener of the gates, King of the Land of Youth, the giver of peace and rest. But She is the gracious mother of all life; from Her all things proceed and to Her they return again. In Her are the mysteries of death and birth; in Her is the fulfillment of all love.

*Traditional Craft Myth