Charging And Cleansing Your Tools

Charging And Cleansing Your Tools

Once you have prepared your elemental substances, you can charge your tools ready for use. If they
have been bought, whether new or second-hand, you might also like to cleanse them first. You can also
cleanse them after a formal ritual or when their energies seem depleted.

If the ritual is important or arduous, you can recharge the tools before each use, but usually this is not
necessary, as the cleansing from a previous ritual will automatically restore the energies. However, as
you polish your candlesticks or athame before putting them on the altar, you may wish to focus on the
intention of the ceremony and visualise light entering the tools.

Charging With Power

You can charge your tools separately as you obtain them. Alternatively, group them together on a table
before their first use in ritual and create a circle of light around them with small purple candles at the
eight main compass points (North, North-east, etc.). Start at the North candle and end with the Northwest candle.

* First create a circle of salt round the tool(s), beginning in the North, to offer the tool(s) the protection
of the ancient Earth element, saying:

Mother Earth, charge with the power of the ancient stone circles and the wise ways of the ancestors
this – [name the tool(s)] of magick and healing, that my work may be rooted in what is possible and
help create abundance and prosperity for others and the land, as well as for my own needs.

* Next, draw a circle of smoke deosil in the air around them, using a frankincense or myrrh incense
stick, saying:

Father Sky, charge with the power of the mighty winds and the limitless potential of the cosmos this –
[name the tool(s)] of magick and healing, that my work may be focused, filled with energy and bring
positive change to ever-widening horizons.

* Now, using a golden or scarlet candle in a broad-based candle-holder, mark an inner circle of fire in
the air, around the artefact(s), saying:

Brother Fire, charge with the power of ancient ritual fires and the brilliance of the Sun, this (these)
tool(s) of magick and healing, that my work may be filled with light and inspiration and purged of all
self-seeking and negativity.

* finally, sprinkle sacred water or rainwater that has not touched the ground before collection on top of
the circle of salt saying:

Sister Water, charge with the power of mighty oceans, wide rushing rivers and deep still pools this
(these) tool(s) of magick and healing, that my work may release stagnation and bring fertility and
peace, not only to myself and my loved ones, but to people whose lives are blighted by polluted places
and, especially, water.

Cleansing Using The Forces Of Nature

Leave your artefact(s) on a piece of white silk in a sheltered, safe place out of doors or near an open
door where children, pets or the curious cannot reach them. Begin at dusk where they can absorb the
light of the Sun, the Moon and the stars, for 24 hours. This will be effective even if you cannot see any
of these heavenly bodies in the sky.

Charge at the time of the waxing moon to the full moon if possible; if not, let them stand for 48 hours.
If the Moon is waning and so not good for energising, create a circle of alternate moonstones and
crystal quartz for the powers of the Sun and Moon, and leave the tools within this circle for the full 48-
hour cycle.

Sprinkle the tools with nine drops of sacred water that was collected under the full moon or rainwater
that has not touched the ground, saying a variation of this old magical rhyme whose origins are
unknown:

One for joy, two for gladness,
Three and four to banish sadness,
Five and six do life renew,
Seven, eight, nine bring power anew.

Few of these old chants are great poetry, but that was not their purpose – they were created in the days
before widespread literacy as a way of remembering magical rituals. If you prefer, you can substitute
your own, composed by you or a coven member who may have a gift for such work. The rhymes
served like simple mantras to build up power – some people recite the chant several times, very fast,
while sprinkling the water slowly.

Cleansing Using A Crystal Pendulum

Hold a clear crystal pendulum over the tool(s) and make nine circles widdershins.

Plunge the pendulum in cold running water to cleanse it, shake it dry and circle it nine times deosil
over the tool(s) to restore energies. You may need to repeat this several times if a tool seems lifeless or
after you have been carrying out a banishing ritual.

 

— Practical Guide to Witchcraft and Magic Spells By Cassandra Eason

Ritual Magick

Ritual Magick

Ritual magick is no different from any other activity that you may carry out in a systematic way. Yes, it is true, it is more formal than folk magick: you are using special tools and following a series of preordained steps based on traditional practice. But this does not mean that it has to be so complicated as to be beyond the capabilities of any normal person. You do not need special powers; and the preparation is just the same as you would do if you were redecorating a room, servicing your car or preparing your annual accounts.

When you decide to do any of these tasks, you set out the necessary equipment in advance, so you are not constantly dashing off to find what you need. You check that it is all in working order and you probably consult a reliable reference book, computer software or calculator to clarify the necessary stages and finer points of the method. And that is exactly what preparing for ritual magick is like.

First, you need to collect any relevant information; for example, you must find out which tools, herbs, candle colours, etc. you may require. Then you must check that your magical tools are charged with power. You must check whether the hour and the day are well chosen to benefit from the energies and are most aligned to the focus. If you are working with a group, you must decide in advance who is to carry the salt and other elemental substances round the circle, who will perform particular parts of the ritual, such as welcoming the Spirit Guardians.

This preparation is important, although, as I have previously said, many of the words and actions in the best rituals remain spontaneous within the basic framework. You do not even need to belong to a coven to create beautiful rituals. Indeed, practising alone, you will find that as you increase in confidence, the natural rhythm of the ritual cycle will amplify your own innate powers and you will feel angelic or devic forces joining with you as you walk around the circle and hear their voices mingling with your chants.

You should not allow yourself to be overawed, as I have been in the past and still occasionally am, by books and practitioners who vaunt their knowledge of obscure magical phrases, measure their circles down to the last millimetre and insist that only their form of working is authentic.

What matters is the actual connection you make in your ritual with the storehouse of natural and higher energies – and that can be done with a kitchen candle if the need is great and the intention pure. Ultimately, the power is within you, and as you become skilled with magick, you may find that the external form becomes less important.

However, formal magick does have its place, for a special need or for raising spiritual awareness, or for focusing magical energies through the accumulated power of tools charged and regularly used for positive purpose. Some people believe also that in ritual you tap into the energies of all those before you who have created circles of power and protection, and within them have raised and called upon the elemental qualities to bring desires and needs from the thought to the material plane.

 

Practical Guide to Witchcraft and Magic Spells By Cassandra Eason

Astronomy Picture of the Day – A Cosmic Rose

Astronomy Picture of the Day

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

2019 April 12

A Cosmic Rose: The Rosette Nebula in Monoceros 
Image Credit & CopyrightJean Dean

 

Explanation: The Rosette Nebula, NGC 2237, is not the only cosmic cloud of gas and dust to evoke the imagery of flowers, but it is the most famous. At the edge of a large molecular cloud in Monoceros some 5,000 light years away, the petals of this cosmic rose are actually a stellar nursery. The lovely, symmetric shape is sculpted by the winds and radiation from its central cluster of hot young, O-type stars. Stars in the energetic cluster, cataloged as NGC 2244, are only a few million years young, while the central cavity in the Rosette Nebula, is about 50 light-years in diameter. The nebula can be seen with a small telescope toward the constellation of Monoceros, the Unicorn. This natural appearing telescopic portrait of the Rosette Nebula was made using broadband and narrowband filters, because sometimes roses aren’t red.

Daily Planet Tracker for April 12: Mercury in Pisces

Mercury in Pisces: Creative, Intuitive, Magical

Feb 10, 2019 – Apr 16, 2019

 

When Mercury enters the fantastical sign of Pisces, our dreams become more vivid, our thoughts are looser, and our instincts are especially strong. Mercury is the mental planet that rules our thoughts and communication style. While this focus on data and details doesn’t naturally align with Pisces widespread, all-inclusive style, there are so many ways to enrich our lives during this transit!

When Mercury enters the fantastical sign of Pisces, our dreams become more vivid, our thoughts are looser, and our instincts are especially strong. Mercury is the mental planet that rules our thoughts and communication style. While this focus on data and details doesn’t naturally align with Pisces widespread, all-inclusive style, there are so many ways to enrich our lives during this transit!

Pisces thrives in a world of magic, fantasy, and idealism. While Mercury is here, our minds are more open and we can find solutions in places we’ve never even considered before. Mercury in Pisces shines a light on the furthest reaches of our minds to illuminate fresh ideas, creative inspirations, and different ways of thinking.

When Mercury is in Pisces

Our minds are never open as wide as they are during Mercury in Pisces! Pisces thrives in the most vast spaces you can imagine. Think about the unbelievable depths of the ocean or the infinite reaches of space — these are Pisces’ realms. So while Mercury moves through this sign, our minds are expanded to this same level of vastness. We can see things we couldn’t see before, and understand things we couldn’t understand before.

It’s no surprise that some thoughts we have during this transit are beyond words. Our ability to communicate becomes fuzzy here, and some of the things that are happening in our minds are just too big to find words for. This is where our intuition comes in. Pisces is the most intuitive sign of the zodiac, and reminds us to pay close attention to the “feelings” we have in our minds. We know things in ways we can’t explain, because our subconscious is being triggered more than usual while Mercury is in Pisces.

Of course, there are also some cons to Mercury in Pisces. Miscommunication is possible, and we may have trouble staying on track. We might forget critical details, show up late for meetings, or say things that don’t quite make sense. This is because we’re speaking from the heart and gut, not our brains. Finding the words to match our feelings can make for some seriously stop-and-start conversations.

But overall, Mercury’s time in Pisces can bring amazing new opportunities our way. There are no limits during this transit. We’re open to all possibilities, so we can easily embrace the things that are suddenly inspiring us. The level of promise and potential is high here, because we’re not focusing on the things we can’t do, but the things we can do.

Mercury Retrograde in Pisces

When the planet Mercury goes retrograde, it appears, from our view here on Earth, to be moving backward through the sky. Therefore, the things Mercury rules — communication, travel, details — all start to get a little messy during Mercury Retrograde. When Mercury retrogrades in the sign of Pisces, though, there’s a definite Piscean spin on its effects. We find our energy depleted, and show up late to work or appointments more often than usual. Because communication is already unclear with Mercury moving direct in Pisces, we can expect even more misunderstanding during a retrograde here.

But it’s certainly not all bad! Mercury hibernating in Pisces leaves more time for daydreaming and fantasizing, helping to rejuvenate a stale imagination. And even though it’s not the best time to make a key argument or presentation, because everyone has the attention span of a gnat, using this time to polish your approach will have you ready to state your case effectively once Mercury turns direct.

 

Tarot.com is Part of Zappallas USA © 2019

Your Karmic Number for April 12 is Eight

Your Karmic Number of the Day

Wealth, or even a few extra dollars, can be manifested soon after getting an 8. Thinking about money 24/7 means that you are not open to the signs that are helping you know where to look. You have a poverty consciousness because it was instilled in you at an early age. You are still holding on to those messages that you are poor in at least one way. If you need money to pay bills then ask the Universe for a project that will do exactly that. Also, work through your foot and root chakra issues. Those old messages about money are closing you off to whatever wealth is truly yours.

Your Daily Witches Rune for April 12 is The Blank Rune

Your Daily Witches Rune for April 12

The Blank Rune

Meaning: This is a rune of difficulty and negative influences will rule your life for a time, but as all difficulties are a learning experience it will lead to improved personal perspective and progress on your life’s path. Always consult the surrounding runes with this stone. If it lies with a positive stone, it indicates that the pain of this experience will lead to a beneficial change in circumstances.

Your Daily Rune for April 12th is Kenaz

Your Daily Rune for April 12th

Kenaz

“The student surpasses the teacher.”

Kenaz – Literally: “Torch” – Esoteric ‘Ken’ or Knowledge

Key Concepts: torch as a symbol of knowledge and intellect, illumination, searching for enlightenment, shedding light on matters, quest for truth, skills and abilities, creativity, art, craftsmanship, cunning, acquisition and application of knowledge, occult female secrets, intuition, enthusiasm in teaching/learning, study, kin-fire, opportunity, playfulness

Psi: observation, clarity of thought, cognitive faculties, humility

Energy: Controlled energy, transformation (pheonix fire), teaching/learning dynamic, illumination

Mundane:
art, technique, improvement of skills, school, the stars

Divinations:
Artistic or technical ability, craft, transformation, offspring, new information; or disease, decay, breakup, inability, lack of creativity, ignorance, arrogance, elitism, over-conceptualization

Governs:

Illumination (torchlight) when exploring transpersonal pathways
Creative inspiration, enthusiasm for learning
Exploration of paradigms in the search for truth
Exposing the hidden to gain new knowledge, esp. through study, reflection and new information
Strengthening of abilities in all realms
Female occult secrets
The light within, the observer

Tarot 101: How To Use & Read Tarot Cards

How To Use & Read Tarot Cards

 

You’ve just picked up a Tarot deck, perhaps your first. You’ve spent some time flipping and familiarizing, and are ready to put them to use. This is an exciting undertaking — insight into your past, present, and even factors influencing your future can all be found in the cards.

You may be a bit confused or overwhelmed. There are lots of cards to master (we’ll get to that in a moment), and if you’ve read the booklet that came in the company of your deck, you’re likely feeling only slightly closer to becoming the intuitive that you know you are.

But, with Tarot, it’s best to trade fear for trust. By the time you’re done here, you’ll feel much more comfortable shuffling, placing, and reading your cards.

WHAT IS TAROT, ANYWAY?

First, a bit of history — Tarot got its start as a card game in the 15th century. So while it may seem like reading cards is an ancient practice, the use of Tarot for divination really came into its own in the 18th century. Because the Tarot deals in archetypes (or universal symbols), the meanings of each card and the stories those meanings tell span culture, continent, and time.

You may have seen the Tarot presented as a means of telling the future — even changing it — but the cards are actually most useful for reflection and empowered decision-making. From this vantage, Tarot can only aid on your journey to fulfillment.

WHY ARE SOME CARDS IN SUITS, WHILE OTHERS AREN’T?

If you’ve taken a good look at your cards, you will have noted that some have distinct names and are numbered zero to 21 (or one to 22, depending on the deck), while others that appear numbered in the same way that you might see in a traditional card deck, complete with aces, kings, and queens. The cards without suits make up the major arcana. Those that are labeled as belonging to swords, wands, cups, and pentacles comprise the minor arcana. A standard deck has 78 cards: 22 in the major arcana and 56 in the minor.

WHAT’S IN THE MAJOR ARCANA?

The major arcana is made up of cards that directly represent archetypes, and suggest major themes and lessons that the querent (the subject of the reading) should pay attention to.

There are many cards in your deck that symbolize impending change. If cards from the major arcana — think Death, or The Tower — show up, that means that the changes are going to be big, important, and an opportunity for a life-altering lesson.

Of course, not all of the cards that comprise the major arcana are created equal. Depending on your deck — and they are available in increasing, and increasingly creative, numbers — some card names may be altered. Be sure to read up on your deck to catch all of its idiosyncrasies.

WHAT’S IN THE MINOR ARCANA?

The minor arcana represents the joys, triumphs, hopes, fears, annoyances, and challenges we experience every day. The word “minor” doesn’t imply that these issues aren’t important; it just means that they’re more temporary and less far-reaching than those you’ll see in the major arcana cards. They’re also easier to act upon.

The minor arcana is separated into four suits — wands, swords, cups, and pentacles, traditionally — and each suit relates to a facet of human experience. Wands represent action and motivation; swords represent thought processes and decision-making; cups represent feelings and emotions; and pentacles represent the material world, as in work and finances.

Some decks may mix this up, but the meanings generally remain the same.

READY FOR A READING?

This crash course has been leading toward a simple goal, a readiness to give yourself — or soon, perhaps others — a reading. If you’ve heard that it’s bad form to read for yourself, know this is a myth. In fact, using the cards to gain insight and is one of the quickest ways to start getting honest with yourself — all it takes is a simple shuffle.

There are a variety of Tarot spreads to try. And while it may be tempting to lay out a ten-card Celtic Cross, it’s best to begin with something a bit more basic, though equally powerful. A three-card spread is both illuminating and versatile.

A THREE-CARD SPREAD HOW-TO:

Begin by shuffling the deck while contemplating your question. You may want to cut your shuffled deck into three piles and then reassemble it before pulling your cards, or you may not — do what feels right. Likewise, you may want to spread the cards out face down and move them around before picking, rather than splitting the deck. How you shuffle is entirely up to you — the most important aspect is your unwavering concentration on the question you want answered.

Pull three cards off the top of the deck, and position them to be read from left to right. This spread may seem simple, but it’s also very versatile. You can use the cards to denote past, present, and future, or, situation, action, and outcome. If you’re doing a relationship reading, you can even designate the first card as yourself, the second as your partner (or potential partner), and the third as the relationship between you both. Just don’t change the parameters of the inquiry mid-reading!

Don’t worry if you don’t know the meanings of all the cards yet — there are 78 of them, after all. A big part of reading the Tarot is building up your own intuition. Master the keywords associated with each card — use your booklet or the web for reference — and remember that the illustrations are there for a reason, and likely a factor that drew you to your deck! Look at the cards closely, notice how they relate to one another — look for connections; They should tell a story. Most importantly, don’t worry about perfection. Time, practice, and an open mind will serve you well on this journey.

Now, press pause your research, shuffle your deck, and pull a three-card spread. You’re well on your way to reading the Tarot like a true seer.

 

–Astrology.com

Your Past Lives Tarot Card for April 12th is The Star

Your Past Lives Tarot Card for Today

The Star

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

When you stand up for other’s rights you can stir deeply-seated past life memories in yourself. The origin of these feelings might come from having a past life experience of your own family’s struggle. At this time the civil rights leader inside you has come to the forefront. This spirit is more afraid of not standing up for what he or she believes in then fearful of what retribution one could face. This incarnation comes with an inner strength that is founded in compassion.

Your Tarot Power Card for April 12 is Justice

Your Daily Tarot Power Card for Today

Justice

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

There is at least one person in your life who needs to be addressed with a little bit of tough love. You have to be fair, of course, and think through the situation carefully to make sure that you understand completely. This person may be somebody you love or need, but criticism must be delivered, however blunt or insensitive you may be perceived by speaking your mind. A heartfelt letter may be in order, even if done at a distance.

Your Daily Tarot Love Card for April 12 is Strength

Your Tarot Love Card for Today

Strength

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Strength card indicates that today marks a new beginning. That should cause a glimmer of hope to spark in your soul. It radiates from you and brings people to you like moths to a flame. If in a long-term relationship, incorporate loving rules, like balance, harmony, and understanding served in an unconditional way. The good times are easy to enjoy. The real worth of a relationship comes from how a couple acts during difficult times.

Your Daily Tarot Card for April 12 is The High Priestess

The Tarot Card of the Day

The High Priestess

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Keywords: receptivity, passivity, potential, knowledge, secrets!

Astrological Correspondence: The Moon

The mysterious High Priestess closely guards her secrets and occult wisdom. This card symbolizes the unconscious, a concern with our internal worlds, spiritual forces, and the understanding of higher truths through dreams and intuition. As a wise woman the High Priestess is the goddess of fertility and is seen as a healer, possessing intuitive powers and clairvoyance, and striving to create harmony and inner balance. She emphasizes the necessity to get in contact with our inner self, to reflect and meditate, to trust our feelings, and to let dreams and intuition guide us. Observing – rather than participating or acting – the High Priestess can also represent platonic love, manipulation, a pause in a process that was progressing or even a standstill, causing doubt and confusion.

Brighten Your Mood with Your Birthstone

Brighten Your Mood with Your Birthstone

Birthstones are marvelous gemstones that symbolize the month in which you were born in. They are considered lucky and are believed to shower you with their magical healing powers if worn during their month to shine. If you’re in search of some fabulous new jewels, choose your birthstone and perhaps watch your mood become brighter every time you put it on.

January – A fiery, ravishing beauty, Garnets appear to be deep red but often come in an extensive variety of colors to suit everyone’s unique taste. Your stone is thought to symbolize happiness and provide you with enduring love and eternal friendships. It was also believed to help prevent nightmares and protect you during your life’s journey.

February – February’s birthstone is the striking and greatly sought after amethyst. Your eyes will sparkle with delight while gazing into this dazzling purple beauty. Your birthstone symbolizes peace, protection, spirituality, and tranquility. Once said to strengthen the bond in a romantic relationship, it makes for an ideal engagement or anniversary gift.

March – Aquamarine is your precious stone and it certainly resembles the oceans charming beauty with its greenish blue sparkling look. Aquamarines were thought to undo poisoning and to help aid in fortune telling. It was also believed to heal a variety of illnesses in the heart, throat, stomach, mouth, and liver and was particularly powerful when immersed in water.

April – One of the most admired gems in the world, the diamond is your eye-catching jewel. Your stone is connected to love, eternity and power which make it a popular choice when it comes to engagement and wedding rings. Offered in many different cuts and styles, this chic, glamorous sparkler is absolutely captivating and perhaps you might feel like a million bucks every time you slip it on.

May – The intense green emerald symbolizes growth, faith, honesty, and kindness. It’s commonly thought that an emerald gifts you with the ability to see into the future which gives you an almost bewitching mysterious reputation that others find simply fascinating. The beauty and richness of your stone make it hard not to show off, so enjoy darlings!

June – The graceful pearl represents your birthstone, and this precious stone comes in a variety of colors and sizes. Highly popular, pearls are used in cosmetics, medicines, clothing, and temples, furthermore, some cultures swear by pearls as an aphrodisiac. You can show off your pearls by wearing anything from jeans to evening dresses.

July – Ruby is the birthstone for July and is thought to represent warmth and authority. Legend says you should never ignore your ruby because it will grow dull and the ruby was made to be worn and seen. Few other gems have as much myth, wisdom, and romance surrounding them, and Rubies were frequently placed underneath the foundation of buildings to secure them with good luck.

August – The Peridot appears in a variety of greens, ranging from lime green, light yellowish green, even to a dark olive green. It signifies strength, as an individual and within your relationships. It is also thought to improve the effects of healing drugs. Strong and long-lasting, your birthstone gives off its own distinctive liveliness and is a result of volcanic action.

September – Your beautiful blue sapphire is said to encourage creative expressions and help you grow to be more intuitive. Your jewel gifts you with faith, purity, and foresight. It’s believed that the stronger the glisten the more faithful and honest the owner is. Sapphires look amazing in any form of jewelry and are popular choices when passing cherished jewels down to future generations.

October – October’s birthstone is the opal, linked to hope, innocence, emotion, and even healing forces. Opals carry a unique look and exquisiteness to them which catches people’s attention with its bizarre exquisite appearance. It’s thought to carry a powerful energy and will surely illuminate any room you step foot in.

November – November’s birthstone is the Citrine, its bright sunny intensity is ideal for helping you get through the rough periods in life. Your stone also links in with sanity, healing, and life. Citrine is known to transform colors when open to the elements of heat and can be habitually heated to help intensify its color.

December – Blue Topaz is your birthstone and is the symbol of affection, sweetness, disposition, and love. Blue Topaz gems are said to boost your creative energies, promote better concentration, and help control insomnia and greediness. This sparkler can make a very distinctive and unusual addition to your jewelry collection.

 

–JenniferAngel

Get A Jump on Tomorrow, Your Horoscopes for Saturday, April 13th

Get A Jump on Tomorrow……

Your Horoscopes for Saturday, April 13th

 

Moon Alert

We have the “all clear” today to shop and do business. The Moon is in Leo.

Aries (March 21-April 19)

Keep your wits about you today because you might end up at odds with an authority figure. Furthermore, social plans (including sports) might be changed, cancelled or suffer from accidents. Speaking of which, parents should be vigilant about their kids today to avoid mishaps.

Taurus (April 20-May 20)

Avoid disputes at home today. Unexpected interruptions might be a drag. Small appliances might break down or minor breakages could occur. Definitely steer clear of discussions about politics, religion and race because this could create a deadlock. (“I’m outta here!”)

Gemini (May 21-June 20)

Pay attention to everything you say and do today because this is an accident-prone day for you. Be alert. (The world needs more lerts.) On the upside, you might have some genius-like ideas because you can think outside of the box. You win some, you lose some.

Cancer (June 21-July 22)

Keep an eye on your possessions because this is the kind of day where you might find money or lose it. Likewise, you might impulsively buy something you really like, or you might suffer damage, theft and loss to something that you own. Yup, it’s a crapshoot. Do not challenge authority figures today.

Leo (July 23-Aug. 22)

Today the Moon is in your sign, which heightens your emotions but also gives you a bit of extra good luck. Meanwhile, you will be wise to avoid discussions about politics, religion and race because they will become power struggles. Definitely!

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

Stay on your toes because a few surprises might come your way today. Power struggles about shared property, taxes or debt are possible. Disagreements with kids and romantic partners might also arise. Remember that patience is the antidote to anger.

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)

Avoid power struggles with partners and close friends today because they might arise. Keep in mind that it’s probably a battle of egos. When the annals of history are written, is this really important? No it isn’t. Rise above this pettiness and keep the peace.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)

A boss, parent or someone in a position of authority (this includes the police) might surprise you today. Be aware of this possibility. For starters, be cool. Guard against knee-jerk reactions. Think before you speak and remember the power of courtesy. “Step away from the fridge.”

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)

Travel plans might be changed, cancelled or rescheduled today. Alternatively, you might suddenly have to go somewhere when you least expected to do so. Meanwhile, power struggles with romantic partners as well as power struggles with your kids might arise. Remember that as the adult, you’re the role model.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

Ego battles with a family member, probably an authority in the family, might take place today. However, this is an opportunity for you. You have a choice. You can demonstrate grace under pressure and be a class act. (Then you can be smug.)

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)

Arguments with siblings, relatives and neighbours might arise today but really they are just ego battles about power and control or who is right. Does this really matter? Why even go there? This might be triggered by an upset with a partner or close friend.

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20)

Avoid money quarrels today or disputes about property and possessions. Meanwhile, keep your eyes open because this is an accident-prone day for you, especially if you are at work. Keep your wits about you and think before you speak. (“Don’t say “yes” until I finish talking.”)

If Your Birthday Is Today

First Lady of France, Brigitte Macron (1953) shares your birthday today. You are energetic, positive, strong and wise. This year you will be able to take it easy because life will be more laid back for you. Nevertheless, your relations with others will be important. Focus on how to cooperate with others. Look for ways to be kinds and helpful. Business and personal relationships will benefit you so be open to engaging with others.

 

–GeorgiaNicols