Author: ladyoftheabyss

The Essence Of Witchcraft Is Therapy

The Essence Of Witchcraft Is Therapy

The younger generation, that generation unfairly labelled Generation X, has an alarmingly dark cast looming over them. They are the first generation who are not expected to fare better than their parents. They are the depressed generation, with an alarmingly large percentage of these children on Prozac or other anti-depression drug, they have been warped by television, violence, illegal drugs and absentee parents. It is no wonder then, that many of these young people have turned to the Pagan religions for solace, turning Witchcraft and other Pagan religions into very quickly growing paths.

It is no puzzle why young people find the pagan religions attractive, they offer a degree of freedom and individualityuncommon to most other mainstream religions, they offer the practitioner strength and power. Because these religions integrate the magickal arts into their core theology, people who need a sense of empowerment are drawn to these religions. In Witchcraft especially, the practitioner is taught that they hold all the power, that will is all one needs to shape their fate and that we all have the ability to determine our futures. But Witchcraft also teaches that along with the power of independence comes responsibility, when we are forced to take responsibility for our actions, we become much more aware of them and this realisation is in itself a kind of therapy.

While many Craft leaders would be hesitant to accept the fact that Witchcraft is therapy, the truth is that any practice which advocates self exploration, self empowerment and self expression is therapeutic. The entire purpose of spirituality in its pure and unadulterated form is to provide a link between the individual and the Divine. Once this link is established and a firm relationship develops, the seeker becomes cleansed. A renewed understanding of self and a new-found self respect is instilled, thus the end result is the same result striven for in any kind of therapy. The re-connecting of the mind and body to the Earth and Goddess is the ultimate form of self affirmation therapy.

Unfortunately, however, the therapeutic aspects of Witchcraft are often masked not only by Hollywood facades which present Witchcraft as a fairytale practice, but also by many books that speak almost exclusively about magick and its application. While it is true that Witchcraft wouldn’t be Witchcraft without magick, it is also true that magick simply will not work without a deep understanding of self and a deep relationship with Earth, Universe and Goddess. Books that give guidelines for rituals and spells do nothing to add dimension to Witchcraft as a bona fide religion, though it appeals greatly to the younger generation. Yet watered-down Witchcraft can never feed the soul and when the young practitioner discovers that their magick does not work (because the books they read have neglected to inform them that they must transform themselves before they can work magick) they turn away from Witchcraft and never come to gain the very thing that they came in search of.

Because witches are very wary of those who proselytise, they are wary to do so themselves. Witches are willing to teach those who are sincere in their desire to learn and who are mature enough to discipline themselves in the manner required of true scholarship. The trouble however, is that most teenagers and young adults who encounter Witchcraft are not lucky enough to have a physical teacher. They read books, magazines and consult the Internet for their teachings. Yet precious little of these media offer valuable and accessible theological and/or philosophical information to the student. Most often, students are taught the Wheel of the Year and the Wiccan Rede without ever being taught why these things are sacred, how they are integrated into our daily lives and how the student is to interpret these guidelines for themselves. In fact, because many publications focus heavily on the eclectic side of Witchcraft, they often offer the student these empty words…Do whatever feels right to you. In some instances, such advice is favourable, but many times, the student has no idea what they should feel, let alone if that feeling is right.

Though teenagers and young adults come to Witchcraft for many reasons including a desire for control, love or for some rebellion against controlling parents, the reason these people stay with Witchcraft is because they feel a sense of coming home.While love and money spells may lure them in, those who are not willing to change for their religion will not stay. Witchcraft is first and foremost, a religion that advocates metamorphosis and self transformation and these things do not come from the wave of a magick wand. These things only come with perseverance, determination and discipline. Many books mention this fact, but most do not stress it enough. It is almost as though they are afraid of scaring away the reader. But why mask what our religion is? Why try to market it is as something that it is not? If we know that Witchcraft is a therapeutic religion that can reconnect the individual with Earth, why do we try to bury this beauty underneath magick spells and rituals? Why are we afraid to tell the student, If you want it bad enough, you can have it, but not without getting your hands dirty? In an age where we are losing a generation to drugs, violence and sexually transmitted disease, why do we deny them the exhilarating liberation that Witchcraft-as-therapy has to offer?

Perhaps writers are afraid that their work won’t be published unless they offer mass public appeal and the public wants magick. Maybe they are afraid that publishing a belief system is so close to proselytisation that they are afraid to cross that line. Yet if Witchcraft is to remain a bona fide religion, it must enculturate the younger generation and it must offer them something useful in return. Witchcraft is a truly beautiful religion, once one gets to the very meat of it and it is a religion truly fit for combating the decay of our young people. Unlike many mainstream religions, witches do not believe that they must rely on an outside source for fulfilment and happiness. Witches believe that the witch saves them self and in an era where self denigration and self hate is on the rise, it would be wise for the teachers of the Craft to make this information readily available to the student. The most valuable thing I ever learned from Witchcraft is that by the simple fact that I am, everything I do, say, feel and think is not only valid, but sacred as well. When we learn to accept ourselves as sacred, we come to understand that others are sacred and mutual respect is established and unity grows.

While it is never too late to teach these principles to anyone, it is much easier to integrate them into the teachings of the beginner, because they are so willing to learn. Instead of filling our bookstores with how-to books that may sell well but offer very little, we must teach and publish that which the younger generation needs to hear, which is that only through self discovery and understanding can we ever be truly successful, be it in work, love or magick.

Souce:

Empathy’s Mystical Occult Site

THE STORY OF WICCA

THE STORY OF WICCA

Wicca, an alternative name for modern witchcraft is a positive, shamanistic nature religion with two main deities honored and worshipped in Wiccan rites. The Goddess (the female aspect and a deity related to the ancient Mother Goddess in her triple aspects of Maiden, Mother and Crone) and her consort, the Horned God (the male aspect). Their names vary from one Wiccan tradition to the next and some traditions use different deity names in both their higher and lower degrees.

Wicca often includes the practice of various forms of white magick (usually for healing purposes or as a counter to negativity), as well as rites to attune oneself with the natural rhythm of life forces marked by the phases of the moon and the four seasons.

Wicca (which is also known as the “Craft of the Wise” or often just “The Craft”) is considered by many to be both a monistic and pantheistic religion and is part of the modern Pagan resurgence or neo-Pagan movement, as many prefer to call it.

Today, most people who define themselves as Pagans use the word as a general term for native and natural religions, usually polytheistic and their members. In simple terms, it is a positive, nature-based religion, preaching brotherly love and harmony with and respect for all life forms. It is very similar to Native American spirituality. Its origins are found in the early human development of religion. Animistic deities gradually becoming redefined to become a main God or Goddess of all Nature. This God or Goddess (bearing different names at different times and in different places) can be found in nearly all of the world’s historic religious systems. Paganism does not oppose nor deny other religions. It is simply a pre-Christian faith.

The Wiccan religion is made up of various sects or “Traditions” such as Gardenerian, Alexandrian, Dianic, Tanic, Georgian, Ethnic Traditionalist and so on. Many of the traditions were formed and introduced in the 1960s and although their rituals, customs, myth cycles and symbolism’s may be different from one another, they all hold common principles of Craft law.

The main tenet of Wicca Craft is the Wiccan Rede, a simple and benevolent moral code that is as follows…

AN IT HARM NONE, DO WHAT THOU WILT.

In other words, be free to do your own thing. Provided that you in no way bring harm upon anyone, including yourself. (The Wiccan Rede is extremely important to bear in mind before performing any magickal spells or rituals, especially those which may be considered unethical or of a manipulative nature.) The Threefold Law (or Law of Three) is a karmic law of triple retribution which applies whenever you do something good or bad. For instance, if you use white magick (or positive energy) to do something good for somebody else, three times the good will come back to you in your lifetime. By the same token, if you use black magick (or negative energy) to bring harm unto others, the bad or “evil” will also return to you threefold in the same lifetime.

The followers of the Wiccan religion are called Wiccan or Witches. The word “Witch” applies to both male and female practitioners of the Craft. Male Witches or Wiccans are seldom, if ever, called warlocks. The word “Warlock” which is considered an insult in most Wiccan circles stems from the old english word “Waerloga,” meaning an “Oath-breaker” and was used derogatorily by the Christian Church as a name for a male witch.

Although Witches are proud to be a part of the Craft, there are some who object strongly to the use of the term “Witch,” feeling that the word stirs up too many bizarre images and misconceptions in the minds of those who are unfamiliar with the Craft and perhaps a bit reluctant to accept that which they do not clearly understand.

As Wicca Craft is a Nature-oriented religion, most of it’s members are involved in one way or another with the ecology movement and current environmental issues.

Wiccans do not accept the arbitrary concept of innate sin or absolute evil and they do not believe in a Heaven or Hell, other than those which are one’s own creations.

Wiccans do not practice any form of black magic or “evil,” nor worship devils, demons, or any evil entities and do not make attempts to convert members of other faiths to the Pagan way. Wiccans respect all other positive religions and feel that a person must hear the “Call of the Goddess” and truly desire within her or his own heart, without any outside proselytisation to follow the Wiccan path.

Many Wiccans take on one or more secret names (also know as “Eke-names”) to signify their spiritual rebirth and new life within the Wicca Craft. Eke-names are most sacred and are used only among sisters and brothers of the same path. When a Witch takes on a new name, she or he must be extremely careful to choose one that harmonizes in one way or another with numerical name-numbers, birth-numbers, or runic numbers. A well-chosen name vibrates with that individual and directly links her or him to the Craft.

Many Wiccans work together in small groups which are called covens. The coven (which can consist of up to 13 people) is led by a High Priestess and/or High Priest and gathers together to worship the Goddess, work magick and perform ceremonies at Sabbats and Esbats. The members of a coven are known as “Coveners” and the place where a coven meets is called the “Covenstead.”

Wiccans who work on their own, either by personal choice or by circumstance are called “Solitary” Witches.

Wiccans celebrate 8 Sabbats each year, making transitions in the seasons. There are 4 major (or grand) Sabbats and 4 minor (or lesser) ones. The major Sabbats are Candlemas, Beltane, Lammas and Samhain. The minor Sabbats are Spring Equinox, Summer Solstice, Autumn Equinox and Winter Solstice.

The Esbat is a monthly coven meeting held at least 13 times a year during each Full Moon. At the Esbat, Wiccans exchange ideas, discuss problems, perform special rites, work magick and healing and give thanks to the Goddess and the Horned God. A traditional “Cakes and Wine” or “Cakes and Ale” ceremony also takes place at the Esbat. During this ceremony, consecrated food and refreshments are served and coveners take time to relax and discuss important magickal subjects. The “Cakes and Wine” or “Cakes and Ale” ceremony is a traditional custom whenever a Wiccan ritual takes place and the circle is cast.

In a coven, the Goddess is represented by the High Priestess and the Horned God by the High Priest.

The Goddess is known by many different names. She is often called Diana, Cerridwen, Freya, Isis, Ishtar, The Lady or any other name that a coven chooses to use or that a Wiccan feels responds to his or her own mythical vision.

The Goddess is the female principle. She represents fertility, creation, the regenerative powers of nature and wisdom. The moon is her symbol and in works of art, she is often depicted as having three faces, each representing a different lunar phase. In her New Moon phase she is the Maiden; in her Full Moon phase she is the Mother; and in her Waning Moon phase she is the Crone.

The Horned God is a phallic deity of fertility and intellectual creativity who symbolizes the powers of the waxing and waning crescent moons. He is usually represented by a hirsute and bearded man having the hooves and horns of a goat. He is a God of Nature and the male counterpart to the image of the Goddess. In primitive times, He was worshipped as the Horned God of Hunting.

Like the Goddess, the Horned God is also known by many different names. In some Wiccan traditions, He is called Cernunnos, which is Latin for “the Horned One.” In others, He is known as Pan, Woden and other names.

The worship of the Goddess and the Horned God symbolize the Wiccan belief that everything that exists in the universe is divided into opposites: female and male, negative and positive, light and darkness, life and death, yin and yang, the balance of Nature.

Source:

Empathy’s Mystical Occult Site

 

Wicca & Witchcraft – The Spiritual Seeker’s Guide

WICCA AND WITCHCRAFT
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The Spiritual Seeker’s Guide
Steven S. Sadleir

Wicca, or Witchcraft is the old religion of Europe, which apparently evolved from Druidism.  Wiccan is generally a term applied to a “Wise One” or “Magician”, and Wicca is the practice of “magic”, which is the application and utilization of natural laws.  As Witchcraft competed as a religion with Christianity (the ‘new’ religion) in the Christianized Western World, witchcraft became repressed as a form of paganism (i.e., a Primative Teaching) and was given an evil stigma, and therefore was not practiced openly.  However, with the repeal of the English Witchcraft Act in 1951, many covens, or congregations, have opened up to the public and many new groups have formed. There are now dozens of Wiccan orgnaizations in the United States and Europe, with perhaps, thousands of active Wiccans and Witches.  Most witches practicing the craft publicly are considered ‘white’ witches, that is, they yse their knowledge for good ends and practice the Wiccan Creed: “Ye hurt none, do as ye will.”  Black Witches (which has recieved most of the notoriety, but are considered a minority) are generally not visible to the public and use thier knowledge for selfish or evil means.  Satanism is NOT considered a form of witchcraft, but was created by people who believe there is a Satan, or Devil.

Wicca/Witchcraft generally involves some form of God or Goddess worship, and many involve the workings of spiritual guides as well.  Wicca/Witchcraft is a very individualized religion, and each person chooses his or her own deities to worship.  Generally, the supreme being is considered ‘genderless’ and is comprised of many aspects that may be identified as masculine or feminine in
nature, and thus a God or Goddess.  Originally, the horned God of hunting represented the maculine facet of the deity, whereas the female qualities were represented in the fertility Goddess.  The Gods and Goddesses from the personalities of the supreme being, and are a reflection of the attributes that worshippers seek to emulate.  Wiccans may draw upon the ancient civilizations of the Druids, Egyptians, Greeks, Romans, or other polytheistic cultures to commune with the particular aspect of the deity that they identify with.  Some favorite gods include Osiris, Pan, Cennunnos, and Bacchus.  Facotie Goddesses include Isis, Caridwen, Rhea, Selene, and Diana.

Wiccans generally observe the four greater Sabbaths of Samhain, Imbolc, Beltane, and Laghnasadh; and the lesser Sabbaths – the Spring and autumn equinoxes and the summer and winter solstices.  There celebrations are typically free-spirited, and are sometimes held ‘skyclad’ (naked) or in various styles of robes.  Other services include handfasting (marriage), handparting (divorce) and wiccaning (birth rite).  Regular meetings, called Esbats are also held, at which magic and healing are performed.  Wiccans/witches meet in small groups (up to twelve) called a coven, whcih typically join with other covens to form a ‘Grove’.

Rituals are typically held outside and consist of forma a circle and erecting the temple (consecrating the circle); invoking, praising, and soliciting assistance from gods, goddesses, and elementals; observing the change of season and energies represented by the various seasons; singing; dancing; ‘cakes and ale’ (sharing of bread and wine); and clearing the temple. Personal practive includes meditation and prayer, divination, development of personal will and psychic abilities through spells and various forms of healing.  Most Wiccans/witches have altars where they burn candles and incense and practice their rites.  To perform thier rites, other tools of the craft are used, such as an athame, yag-disk or, seaux (a handmade and consecrated knife), a sword, a wand, and sometimes special jewelry, amulets or talismans (magically empowered objects).  Sometimes these objects are inscribed with magical writings. Joining a coven or grove typically involves an initiation, which is stylized by each individual group, but generally involves the confirmation that the initiate understands the principals and an oath of secrecy.

AMAZING GRACE

Goddess Comments & Graphics
I hope you enjoy one of my all time favorite songs,

AMAZING GRACE

Amazing grace, how sweet the Earth
that bore a witch like me!
I once was burned, now I survive,
was hung and now I sing.
 
 
T’was grace that drew down the moon
and grace that raised the seas.
The magic in the people’s will
will set our Mother free.
 
 
We face the East and breathe the winds
that move across this earth.
From gentle breeze to hurricane
our breath will bring forth the change.
 
 
Turn towards the South and feel the fire
that burns in you and me.
The spirit’s flame will rise again
and burn eternally.
 
 
We greet the West, our souls awash
in tides of primal birth.
Our tears and blood, our pain and love
will cleanse and heal the earth.
 
 
Reach into the North and know your roots
down deep ancestral caves.
We find the wisdom of the Crone,
Of circles we are made.
 
 
Amazing earth, enduring life,
from death into rebirth.
T’is earth I am and earth I love
and earth I’ll always be.
 
 
Amazing grace, how sweet the Earth
that bore witches like we.
We once were burned, now we survive,
were hung and now we sing.
 
 
Goddess bless, so mote it be,
Our magic spirals on.
Merry meet and merry part
and merry meet again.

Atrology Extra – Navigating Your Saturn Return

  1. Navigating Your Saturn Return

Discover what it means when Saturn returns

By Emily Trinkaus on the topics of saturn, astrology

If you’re in or approaching your late 20s, you’re likely to hear murmurs about the ominous Saturn Return. If you’re brave enough to inquire, you’ll get the message that you should be afraid, very afraid. But the purveyors of fear probably won’t give you any helpful information about what to expect — or, more importantly, what you can do.

So let’s look at what’s actually happening. Saturn takes approximately 29 years to orbit the Sun. Therefore, when you are about 29 years old, Saturn returns to the part of the sky where it was when you were born — your Saturn Return.

In Astrology, Saturn is the Cosmic Taskmaster — the demanding teacher who presents you with obstacles and challenges so you can gain strength and wisdom. Saturn’s position in your Astrology birth chart reveals your major life lessons, as well as the fears you have to overcome to achieve success.

Saturn also represents what’s important to you, and shows the goals you are here to pursue, based on your values. When your actions — especially your work in the world — are aligned with your inner Saturn, you experience a sense of integrity and satisfaction. When you’re out of alignment, you feel Saturn’s shadow — restriction, lack and fear.

Committing to your calling

Your Saturn Return — which typically kicks in around age 27 or 28 — is a time of coming into alignment with your life’s true path. Work tends to be a major theme, and many make significant career changes during this time.

Don’t think that you’re “too old” to take your work in a new direction, or even go back to school for training in an entirely different field. Saturn rules longevity and old age and wants you to imagine yourself at age 80, looking back on your life. What do you want to have accomplished? What will you regret not doing because you were afraid to take a risk?

Saturn will give you very clear signals if you’re not aligned with your calling and pursuing your passions. Feeling stuck, depressed, frustrated and/or jealous of other people’s careers are signs that it’s time for a change. Those who ignore the signs and resist change could be forced by circumstances into a new line of work. Saturn is the “tough love” planet, whose lessons can feel harsh. However, whatever losses you experience during your Saturn Return are really helping you in the long run, compelling you to come into integrity with your truth.

Because your Saturn Return is typically a time when you have to “make your own luck,” don’t expect work opportunities to come falling out of the sky. Be willing to be humble and start small. If you’re interested in pursuing a new path and don’t yet have the experience to land a paying job, then volunteer your time. If you can’t afford to go back to school full-time, start by taking a class at a community college.

When you demonstrate your commitment to your goal by taking one concrete step in that direction, Saturn will reward your effort. If you’re willing to work hard, take responsibility, face your fears and let go of the past, your Saturn Return can be a time of major achievement.

Love at the Saturn Return

The Saturn Return is a time of significant endings and beginnings, and relationships are no exception — both weddings and divorces are common. This is a “make it or break it” transit, when you are ready to commit, one way or the other, and when you will receive clear signals to guide you.

If you’re already in a partnership at the start of your Saturn Return, the relationship will be tested. The Saturn Return calls for personal growth and major life changes, and your partnership will also have to grow and change if it is to survive. Now is the time to address any issues that have been lurking beneath the surface, and to take responsibility for making necessary adjustments in how you relate.

Plenty of partnerships do survive the Saturn Return — and ultimately achieve a deeper level of love and commitment. Honesty, flexibility and a willingness to release old habits and take a more mature approach are the keys to success.

If you start a new relationship during your Saturn Return, expect your sweetie to “play Saturn” — triggering your insecurities, and pushing you to step up and take greater responsibility for yourself. You will be tested to stay committed to your work and goals, even during the excitement of a new romance.

Because the Saturn Return is a period that requires solitude and introspection, many people experience being single — or temporarily separated from their partner — during their Saturn Return. In some cases, it can feel like you have so much going on in your own life that you have no time or energy for a partnership. If you find yourself in this situation, commit to being your own best partner for the time being. Trust that the energy you invest in your individual growth and development will necessarily result in a more satisfying future partnership.

The second time around

By age 58, Saturn has completed another 29-year journey around the Sun, and you get your second Saturn Return. While this can also be a challenging period — requiring big changes in work, relationships and other areas of life — the second is typically less tumultuous than the first. As you revisit themes from your first Saturn Return, you now have the wisdom and experience of the past 29 years to draw on, and are likely to have much greater clarity about who you are and what you want to accomplish.

At the second Saturn Return, people often feel like they’re finally free to do what they want — no longer trying to please or prove themselves to others. Retirement is a common theme around the second Return, freeing up time to pursue a hobby or creative passion, and some even start on a new career path altogether.

Even though people can still feel quite youthful at age 58, the second Saturn Return marks an initiation into the role of elder. This could mean taking a more active role in your community, or mentoring or teaching the younger generation.

The bottom line: reclaiming authority

Ultimately, both Saturn Returns revolve around the theme of authority, confronting you with the question — “who is the author of my life?” In any area where you are feeling restriction, limitation, deprivation or fear, look to see how you have given away your power to someone or something outside of yourself.

Reclaiming your authority means taking responsibility for whatever is happening in your life. Saturn, the great teacher, shows you that the only way to experience happiness and freedom is to take full possession of yourself. At the Saturn Return, giving away your power can lead to dire consequences, while reclaiming your authority will result in lasting success and inner satisfaction.

Daily Feng Shui News for April 7th – ‘Sweet Taters, Yum!’

For some reason, today I’m thinking of a sweet potato ritual to make a wish come true that I learned eons ago. This exercise says that you should carve your name and birth date on a sweet potato and make a wish. Then insert toothpicks into the sweet potato and hang it over a glass of water. Once the potato starts to sprout ‘eyes’ you should bake and eat it. The sweet promise is that this potato will make your dreams come true.

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By Ellen Whitehurst for Astrology.com

Your Charm for April 7th is The Axe Head

Your Charm for Today

The Axe Head

Today’s Meaning:
As an axe comes to a complete stop when it hits the tree so you have grown motionless. You now must draw back, step away from this quadrant of your life and begin again. Set a new path into motion.

General Description:
This Chinese incised jade Axe head was suspended round the neck, and worn as an amulet to protect the wearer from illness, accidents, and injuries, also as a charm against witchcraft. The Chinese had great faith in the supposed medicinal powers of jade, which was recommended and prescribed by their physicians. The Axe head was always considered to be an emblem of strength and pwer among primitive races; even today small axe heads are still regarded as effective talismans against disease in many countries, and great faith is placed in their supposed supernatural powers of healing.

Your Animal Spirit for April 7th is The Heron

Your Animal Spirit for Today

Heron

Is your life in a state of balance? If not, long-legged Heron has flown in today to help you. Because Heron is a water bird, he is most often associated with emotions. He stands motionless, almost in a trance, his body mirrored in the water below. Take a few moments today to be like Heron—be quiet, go within, and discover the answer to your questions.

Your Ancient Symbol Card for April 7th is The Protector

Your Ancient Symbol Card for Today

The Protector

The Protector represents the presence of a strong ally ready to assist you when your path is full of difficult challenges. The Protector is represented by the Archangel Michael: God’s warrior angel. Archangel Michael is in the writings of many religions including Christianity, Islam, and Judaism. While Michael is male, in the context of this Oracle, The Protector is not gender specific. Regardless of whether Your Protector is male or female they can have a powerful positive influence when you find yourself facing trying times.

As a daily card, The Protector denotes the immediate presence of a commanding ally working to put the balance of power in your favor. The protector is especially powerful at helping you get what you rightfully deserve and thwarting underhanded schemes aimed at keeping you down.

Your Tarot Card for Monday, April 7th is The Sun

The Sun

Monday, Apr 7th, 2014

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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!”

Your Horoscopes for Tomorrow, Tuesday, April 8th

We are caught in a tug of war today between our own unrestrained self-expression and respecting other people’s boundaries. Controlling our aggressive tendencies may prevent conflicts but the Sun’s opposition to red-hot Mars makes it tough to cool off before realizing we’re in the heat of a battle. Meanwhile, the evocative Moon’s shift into dramatic Leo at 5:50 am EDT tips the scales toward overreacting rather than taking a more diplomatic route.

Aries Horoscope

(Mar 21 – Apr 19)

Set priorities and start tackling your to-do list early in the day. Although you’re eager to work hard, everything could still take longer than you think. You’re in a feisty mood today as the Sun opposes your key planet Mars, but it’s hard to know where to direct your passion. Relationship dynamics may feel tense now, making it crucial to avoid petty ego disputes. Don’t waste your energy trying to win an argument, even if you know you’re right. Taking the high road isn’t easy but it’s the most reliable path to success.

Taurus Horoscope

(Apr 20 – May 20)

Even if you were planning on kicking back and relaxing today, there’s more going on in your immediate environment than you can ignore. Attempting to avoid the action only creates tension now, for you’re likely to be pulled in by unplanned circumstances anyhow. It’s best to throw in the towel sooner than later, for you just might have fun once you let yourself be swept up in the social whirlwind. Embrace the element of surprise and anything can happen.

Gemini Horoscope

(May 21 – Jun 20)

You have been operating on overdrive for a while now and you wish you could take some time off before you run out of steam. Although there are signs that you can slow down ahead, you won’t be let off the hook just yet. You might be able to amaze others with how much you accomplish, but burning yourself out in the process is surely not worth it. If you’re feeling somewhat depleted today, sneak away to recharge your batteries before you jump back into the race.

Cancer Horoscope

(Jun 21 – Jul 22)

Someone may be expecting you to do more than you can deliver and you don’t like to let anyone down even if you’re feeling overcommitted. In fact, you don’t want to miss out on any of the action now, so you might say yes before you think about the consequences. Allowing yourself to be talked into any activities that scatter your energy is not a good idea today. Creating healthy boundaries gives others the opportunity to respect your limits. Taking care of yourself is just as important as nurturing everyone else.

Leo Horoscope

(Jul 23 – Aug 22)

Your current service to others may be tied to your spiritual aspirations, but spinning lots of wheels at once can also prevent you from attending to your own dreams. Interactions with friends act as a catalyst now, sending you back into your colorful imagination. There is nothing wrong with entertaining your fantasies as long as you don’t use them to escape from a conflict in the real world. Nevertheless, avoiding unnecessary drama allows your generous spirit to shine while still leaving time for your inner journey.

Virgo Horoscope

(Aug 23 – Sep 22)

You have more time to figure out how to improve your cash flow, yet you still might believe that you have to make a decision right away. If you feel an overwhelming sense of urgency, take several deep breaths and step back from the situation. Hasty actions won’t be productive today, so consider all your options before you shift into gear. There’s no need to rush now; believe it or not, everything is unfolding according to schedule.

Libra Horoscope

(Sep 23 – Oct 22)

Someone’s behavior may not be totally transparent now and he or she might even be working against your good intentions. Don’t lash out if you discover that a friend isn’t being supportive; take what you learn in stride. Making others feel guilty will only waste your time and energy. Be thankful that you know the truth about what’s really going on, for what you don’t know can hurt you more than you think. Although it’s wise to watch your back, giving another person the benefit of the doubt is an exercise of compassion.

Scorpio Horoscope

(Oct 23 – Nov 21)

Unexpressed feelings can be complicated to manage if your anger or resentment has nowhere to go. Unfortunately, it could be tough to understand what is motivating you now and how deep your passions run. Don’t just jump into an argument today since you may be tricking yourself into believing that a simple solution exists. Move cautiously, for you are so receptive now that your emotions may be projecting from someone else. A current conflict is more easily resolved by doing your inner work than by just fixing something externally in your environment.

Sagittarius Horoscope

(Nov 22 – Dec 21)

Remaining practical while diving deeply into your own emotional reservoir can be a challenging task today. You’re probably reluctant to set aside unrealistic dreams, even if obligations are keeping you on a short leash. Stay true to your highest ideals by doing the most responsible thing. Be as thorough as possible when it comes to your work for more is going on than meets the eye. There’s a fine balance between taking care of business and honoring the whims of your heart.

Capricorn Horoscope

(Dec 22 – Jan 19)

Although you are extremely impatient today, honoring your responsible nature minimizes the chances of doing anything foolish. Fortunately, you have a secret reserve of energy, enabling you to finish what you start as long as you don’t fly off the edge on an emotional tangent. If you find yourself itching to do something else, just remember that there will be plenty of time later to start a new project. Be consistent and stay on your path without making any sudden changes in direction.

Aquarius Horoscope

(Jan 20 – Feb 18)

Trust what you feel in your body now instead of solely relying on your intellect to discover a solution. Nevertheless, you still need to dig beneath the obvious since you won’t be satisfied until you know the whole truth. Others may not understand your interest in subjects that seem irrelevant to them, but don’t worry about what they think. If it seems significant to you, then take the time to check it out. After all, you’re the director of your own movie and the star of your own show.

Pisces Horoscope

(Feb 19 – Mar 20)

It’s not too late to review your action plan for the days ahead if you stumble upon an important fact you previously missed. Don’t waste time arguing with others today; it’s more critical to uncover the truth than it is to make your point. Avoid lingering in discouragement, even if you discover something you don’t like. This is a wonderful opportunity to refine your strategy and improve your chances for success.

Daily Horoscopes for Monday, April 7th

We wake up with a lot on our mind as Mercury shifts into spontaneous Aries at 11:34 am EDT for a two-week visit, encouraging us to talk now and think later. Although chatty Mercury blasts into impetuous Aries, we still might remain silent while the Moon is moving through hypersensitive Cancer. Meanwhile, the reflective Moon’s harmonizing trine to karmic Saturn empowers us to follow our dreams without putting a damper on the current festivities

Aries Horoscope

(Mar 21 – Apr 19)

You want to make sure that everyone knows exactly what’s on your mind as communicator Mercury marches into your spontaneous sign. But it feels as if your intentions are thwarted over and over again today. Ironically, the more determined you are to speak your piece, the more frustrated you become. Perhaps it’s best to take your cues from the current circumstances and keep your thoughts to yourself for now instead of fighting against the tide. Your delivery will be more convincing if you wait a few more days.

Taurus Horoscope

(Apr 20 – May 20)

You know what you should do today, but may be so entangled in all the details that you don’t have a clue where to start. Each time you revise your plan of attack, you bump into another problem that needs to be resolved before you can make any real headway. You might be tempted to throw your hands up in the air and walk away. However, the current dilemma is more like a test than a setback. There’s no reason to panic or give up; just keep calm and stay focused on the final destination.

Gemini Horoscope

(May 21 – Jun 20)

Patience is not usually your strong suit, but there’s no way to escape the fact that you must play the waiting game today. However, your desire to find an immediate resolution to a pesky problem only makes matters worse. Concentrate on finding a long-term solution rather than a quick fix, so the resistance will dissipate and things can gradually start to move in your direction. Steady progress is best achieved now one step at a time.

Cancer Horoscope

(Jun 21 – Jul 22)

You might instigate a power play today, yet your family and co-workers probably don’t even realize what’s happening. You have a plan to reach your goals but could go about your business in a rather sneaky manner now. Working toward a specific goal is admirable, but don’t get caught up in complicated schemes. Find the courage to tell others the truth about what you’re doing and why. You may be pleasantly surprised by the support you receive when you are completely honest.

Leo Horoscope

(Jul 23 – Aug 22)

You rarely have trouble letting others know where you stand. However, you may be more secretive now than anyone realizes. You appear to be straightforward when you tell everyone what’s on your mind, but your spoken words differ from your desires. Don’t be too hard on yourself; you’re under no obligation to disclose your emotional needs as long as you’re meeting your current obligations. Share your personal story with your associates later on if and when you feel like it. Your heart doesn’t have to be an open book for everyone to read.

Virgo Horoscope

(Aug 23 – Sep 22)

You want to be more engaged with your coworkers, but your cautious nature prevents you from being too friendly. Nevertheless, you still might find yourself in a social situation now where you need to interact with someone who isn’t in your closest circle of friends. Don’t be overly critical of anyone today, including yourself; save your judgment for another time. Getting along with others is easier once you accept yourself just as you are. A warm smile might be enough to get the ball rolling.

Libra Horoscope

(Sep 23 – Oct 22)

You are comfortable falling back on your role as peacemaker by listening to all the stories being told at work today. Even if you’re expected to hold a centrist position that validates each individual person, you aren’t as neutral as everyone thinks. Nevertheless, you feel the pressure to keep your opinion quiet now. Although your frustration may increase throughout the day, rest assured the tension will eventually fade, allowing space for a whole new round of negotiations.

Scorpio Horoscope

(Oct 23 – Nov 21)

There may be rules at work that seem very rigid, perhaps with good reason, but you want them to change anyhow. You’re tempted to unilaterally break out of the old routine, but sudden action on your part today could destabilize the whole system. Instead of expecting everything to shift immediately, keep up a gentle but constant pressure. Although nothing seems to move fast enough for your tastes, your steady force can ultimately bend reality in your favor.

Sagittarius Horoscope

(Nov 22 – Dec 21)

Something dramatic happens today that impacts your attitude and empowers you to think outside of the box. Although your thoughts may be unrestrained, an array of complications prevents you from openly sharing them with others. Perhaps your ingenious idea will work, but there’s a high cost of upsetting the current stability of your relationships at work. Don’t speak too soon; make sure your solution is practical before telling others about it later in the week when the timing is better.

Capricorn Horoscope

(Dec 22 – Jan 19)

You may feel a bit like a military leader now, preparing for your next campaign. But warrior Mars harshly opposes the willful Sun tomorrow, already making it tricky to draw the line between assertive action and overt aggression. You could get so worked up about accomplishing a specific task that you temporarily forget that not everyone shares the same goal. Step back and ask what others need before assuming that they want to follow your orders.

Aquarius Horoscope

(Jan 20 – Feb 18)

The pace of your life is hectic these days, yet you’re enjoying the exciting buzz of energy. However, it’s difficult to stick to your daily routine and accomplish your goals for the day. You might be torn between talking about all the amazing things that are happening now and having to perform your same old job in the same old way. You know what’s possible, but it seems a step away no matter how quickly you walk. Work smarter instead of harder; you have a better chance of catching up with your intentions next week.

Pisces Horoscope

(Feb 19 – Mar 20)

Feeling happy about what you’re doing is one thing, but it’s something entirely different to communicate your experience to someone else. Although you seem to be making progress, you might not receive the support that you expect today. Confronting others won’t help; in fact, it only heightens the tension. Just get along doing the best you can on your own; your friends and associates will be suitably impressed when they see the results of your productivity.

Your Love Horoscopes for the Week of April 7th

This week, when it comes to talking to your lover, you won’t hold back. After Monday and until April 23, Mercury will be in Aries, allowing you to speak your mind without hesitation. While this will help you get to the point in all conversations, at the same time you may run short on tact. On Tuesday, your lover might not respond to a situation in the way you’d hope, but Venus will embrace Neptune by the time Friday arrives and you’ll only see the best in your sweetheart. Ignoring all the flaws can be nice once in a while. Go ahead, live the fairy tale!

 

Aries Horoscope
Aries Horoscope (Mar 21 – Apr 19)

You won’t have any problem speaking up for yourself this week. If there’s any situation you and your partner need to hash out, you may come across as more argumentative than usual, or you might speak in a way that’s more selfish. While this may irk your mate, at the same time it appears you’ll have the upper hand — at least for this week. Don’t abuse it! On Friday, you might spend more time fantasizing about a love life you wish you had than enjoying the lover that’s right in front of you.

Taurus Horoscope
Taurus Horoscope (Apr 20 – May 20)

If there’s any sexual tension at the office between you and a coworker, this week you might try to send a subtle message to this person that it’s time to talk about the elephant in the room. While you’ll want to get things out in the open and see if this is something worth exploring, it appears you’ll hit a brick wall. Your colleague might not be ready to discuss the situation just yet. Be patient. On Friday, you might end up enjoying a romantic evening with someone you meet while out with friends.

Gemini Horoscope
Gemini Horoscope (May 21 – Jun 20)

Your mind will focus actively on your social life after Monday. You might enjoy stimulating conversation with pals more than usual, or you might consider attending events that allow you to meet and mingle with new, like-minded individuals. Unfortunately, it appears your sweetheart may not be on board with your agenda. He or she might even feel threatened by it, thinking that you’re bored with your current romantic situation and that you’re trying to fill a void. There may be some truth to this, and if so you’ll need to address it. Or, your lover might simply be jealous.

Cancer Horoscope
Cancer Horoscope (June 21 – Jul 22)

You and your partner may continue to experience domestic tension. Mars, the planet of assertive drive and the planet that rules your libido, continues to move retrograde in your home and family sector. It’s possible that a relative or a stressful family problem is wreaking havoc on your sex life. You might be feeling so drained that you’re too tired to “play” with your mate. On Friday, however, you might have an opportunity to enjoy a nugget of romance. Take it!

Leo Horoscope
Leo Horoscope (Jul 23 – Aug 22)

You might be overly excited this week about a potential trip you and your partner plan to take. This may be a romantic getaway you think would help you both unwind and refocus on your relationship. Unfortunately, there might be stress attached to the logistics of this trip. Anything from a flat tire, a faulty GPS, or even a minor fender bender may ruin the fun. Or, you might end up arguing over which sight to see first. Don’t sweat the small stuff. On Friday, you will both make up for it, though. Expect a delicious erotic encounter.

Virgo Horoscope
Virgo Horoscope (Aug 23 – Sep 22)

Talking about intimate matters will be much easier for you this week — and the trend will last all the way until April 23! You might take the initiative and open up a dialogue with your partner about what you crave sexually. You might also discuss what holds you back from connecting fully with your mate if there have been any problems lately. On Friday, a gorgeous connection between Venus and Neptune in your relationship sector might leave you feeling joined to your lover in the most spiritual way possible.

Libra Horoscope
Libra Horoscope (Sep 23 – Oct 22)

You’ll be motivated to improve communication with your partner this week. However, the way in which you go about achieving this may need some work. On the one hand, you’ll be direct, which will help you talk about any issue one or both of you have been trying to dance around. On the other hand, you may lack tact and speak in a way that’s piercing, rather than supportive of sharing. If you are aware of this you can change it and nurture dialogue where each of you truly listen to as well as hear the other.

Scorpio Horoscope
Scorpio Horoscope (Oct 23 – Nov 21)

A buildup of fairy tale potential is possible this week, culminating on Friday. Venus and Neptune will embrace in your true love sector by then, allowing you to experience a hypnotic romantic encounter with the one who’s captured your heart. If you’re single, you might meet someone close to this day. If so, this would be someone who shares your spiritual ideals and has a talent for being a dreamer, an artist or a visionary. A soul mate might enter your life very soon. Are you ready?

Sagittarius Horoscope
Sagittarius Horoscope (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

With communication planet Mercury entering your true love sector on Monday, your mind will surely focus on matters of the heart until April 23. You might have a major decision to make about the current status of your dating life. Is the person you’re with the right one? Do you need to have a bold, honest conversation about where things are going? Or is there someone you have your eye on that you need to muster up the nerve to talk to? If so, you’re in luck. You’ll have all the mental courage you need to initiate any conversation.

Capricorn Horoscope
Capricorn Horoscope (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

You might need to focus on a domestic decision or how to address a possible career setback early in the week you. As such, there might be little room for romance on your mind. Not to worry! The weekend will more than remedy that situation. On Friday, Venus and Neptune will link up in your communication sector. This connection will prove to be inspiring and uplifting, allowing you to believe in the potential that love truly can conquer all. Have faith.

Aquarius Horoscope
Aquarius Horoscope (Jan 20 – Feb 18)

A clash of ideology between you and your partner is possible early in the week. If this happens, you might feel frustrated and unable to move past it. Consider whether or not this difference of perspective is enough to be a deal-breaker or not. Everyone is entitled to their own viewpoint, and if it’s not on a subject that affects your core value system, it might be a good idea to let it go. Remember, the dissimilarities you share with your mate allow you both to grow within your relationship and yourselves.

Pisces Horoscope
Pisces Horoscope (Feb 19 – Mar 20)

You won’t allow anyone or anything to deter you from your exceptional romantic outlook this week. On Friday, Venus, now in your sign, will embrace with Neptune, the planet of unconditional love. You’ll have an extraordinary capacity to display sensitivity, compassion and forgiveness. In addition, if you’re in a relationship, you and your mate will enjoy a phase of harmony that’s hard to beat. If you’re not, you will certainly give off a mesmerizing vibe that will attract someone special easily.

Daily Cosmic Calendar for Monday, April 7th

Yesterday may prove to be a 24-hour anomaly rather than a consistent path into the future. Now the cosmos plays prankster once again by serving up a potentially stressful First Quarter Sun-Moon Phase (activating 18 degrees of Aries and Cancer at 1:32AM) while the Moon in Cancer enters a new void uncertainty cycle at 11:15AM that lasts until 2:51AM tomorrow. Making matters more intense is Mars in Libra (still in its retrograde mode) opposing Juno in Aries (12:09PM). Ouch! Primary partnerships are in the emotional hot zone around the time-period when this aspect is peaking in intensity. The fact that the Moon is void doesn’t improve the situation. Be extra kind to loved ones on the ropes. Use words to help — not harm. Try to utilize this morning’s First Quarter Sun-Moon Phase to cut through apparent obstacles in your path and to manage your business affairs with greater finesse. Despite the sense of looming difficulties, the universe attempts to give you positive support in the form of a constructive, 60-degree rapport between Pallas and Vesta (4:27AM) while Mercury heads into fiery Aries (8:36AM) for a brief stay until April 23. Therefore, your problem-solving skills are available — if you know how to tune into them. In addition, thinking more from a higher, intuitive level of consciousness may assist you in leapfrogging over erstwhile competitors in business and professional realms. Gear up for more celestial excitement tomorrow as Pallas stops and turns direct in Leo while the Sun makes its every-two-year opposition with the red planet Mars. [Note to readers: All times are calculated for Pacific Daylight Time. Be sure to adjust all times according to your own local time so the alignments noted above will be exact for your location.]

Current Moon Phase for April 7th – First Quarter

First Quarter Moon

(waxing/53% 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.

WOTC Extra – Male Fertility Charms

Celtic & British Isles Graphics

Male Fertility CharmsThis is a list of various charms to use/carry to help promote fertility. ~Men should carry a piece of mandrake root to ensure their won fertility and sexual prowess, while the jasmine flower does the same for women.

The first seven herbs listed above can be added to food and take internally to ensure proper fertility, or they can be introduced into sachets, as can acorns, myrtle and nuts.

~Bull Amulet: To increase fertility in women and men, wear a bull shaped amulet, or place on under the bed before making love.

~Fish Amulet: An amulet shaped like a pair of fish and made of gold or mother of pearl will increase fertility and virility, bring prosperity and offer you protection from people you hate or who have evil intentions.

~Goat Amulet: The symbol of the goat (sacred to Aphrodite and the Horned God) increases fertility when worn or carried as an amulet, and is especially favorable for those born under the sign of Capricorn.

~Ram Amulet: An amulet in the shape of a ram will increase fertility in women.

~Unicorn Amulet: The unicorn is a ancient symbol of chastity and protection, and it’s fabled born was said to be used in medieval times as an amulet to detect poisons in the food or drinks of kings, queens, pontiffs and popes. To promote fertility or increase sexual magnetism, wear any type of amulet jewelry shaped like a unicorn.