Category: All Regular Daily Posts

Lamp Scrying

Lamp Scrying

History

Both the Egyptians and Babylonians scryed by means of an oil lamp. The lamp consisted of a stone which was shaped as a low open dish with a strip of white linen coiled in the oil that had an end which hung over the side of the dish. The Egyptians used clear oil made from oasis palm plants. They believed that the clearer the oil, the better the results.  This is in essence, candle or flame scrying, watching the flame, which can play tricks on your eyes in a dark room.

Ritual Lamp Scrying Techniques

Place your lamp on a table.  Sit on the west side facing east across the lamp.

Sunday : Sol (Ra)

Monday : Luna

Tuesday : Mars

Wednesday : Mercury

Thursday : Jupiter

Friday : Venus

Saturday : Saturn

Using the name of the God of that day, chant a suitable invocation toward the flame – in a soft voice – repeating several times. Your mantra may be as simple as calling the God’s name.  Focus on the flame. You may see or sense shadows off to one side (peripheral vision). Telepathically ask a question. You may hear voices or see images. Flames create illusion. This exercise is not for those with emotional problems.

Source:
Crystalinks.com

Egyptian Dream Scrying

Egyptian Dream Scrying

Ancient Egyptians believed in the power of dreams to bring messages from their many gods. Their methods of dream scrying go back over 5000 years and were recorded in their ancient texts and on hieroglyphic writings.  Some of their techniques were later used by other ancient civilizations, as in ancient Greece thousands of years ago.

Ritual Dream Scrying Techniques

On the day you scry – find a place of solitude and remain alone.

Do not consume alcohol, eat for 4 hours before your begin, or engage in sexual activities.

Take a warm relaxing bath then anoint your temples with olive oil. You will need an oil lamp as used with lamp scrying.

On a short narrow strip of white linen write the name of the Egyptian God and the purpose for the dream scrying. Twist the linen strip into a wick and insert into the oil of the lamp. Place the lamp on a table beside your bed. Using the ink draw the image of the dream God upon your left palm.

Light your lamp. Kneel before the lamp. Invocation:

    Concentrating on the image on your left hand recite the following invocation :
    “Thoth, (use name of desired god) I invoke, blessed power of dreams divine, Angel of future fates, swift wings are thine, Great source of oracles to human kind, When stealing soft, and whispering to the mind, Through sleep’s sweet silence and the gloom of night, Thy power awake the sight, To silent souls the will of heaven relates, And silently reveals their future fates.”

Concentrate on your question. Around your left hand wrap a piece of black linen about four inches wide and about thirty inches long. The black cloth is called the black eye of Isis. – the Magic of Isis – or Black Isis.

Blow out the lamp’s flame. Clear your mind and go to sleep.

Have a tape recorder or pen and paper beside your bed so that when you awaken you may record your dreams while still fresh in your mind.

You will find that the dream will come to you in a voice that is clear and powerful rather than in dream images. Sometimes the messages are in symbols – cryptic forms. Take your time in deciphering the messages you have received. You may want to use a dream dictionary to interpret messages given, if possible.  They are often archetypes from your subconscious mind, perhaps from an Egyptian lifetime.

Source:
Crystalinks.com

Cloud Scrying

Cloud Scrying

Most of us watch clouds images at one time or another.  It is as if we are guided to look up and watch the patterns unfold at a given time.  Fluffy cumulous clouds bring messages, which sometimes seem to tell an unfolding story.  While flying on an airplane, it is fun to watch the clouds from above as if celestial art. You may receive telepathic messages while watching cloud images, coming from a spirit guide.

Throughout history symbols of political or religious importance have been seen in the clouds. In A.D. 312 when Emperor Constantine was marching against the army of Maxentius at Rome, both he and his entire army saw a shining cross of light amid the clouds.  It was said the cross contained the Greek words “By This Conquer”. Later that  night Christ appeared to Constantine in his dreams bearing a cross in his hand ordering Constantine to have a military standard made in the same image. Under this standard his outnumbered army was victorious. Down through history entire military battles have been witnessed in the clouds.

Source:
Crystalinks.com

Art of Scrying

Art of Scrying

Scrying can be an auto-deepening trance process that progresses in stages using tools such as a crystal ball, or other medium. Initially, the medium serves as a focus for the attention, removing unwanted thoughts from the mind in the same way as a mantra. Once this is achieved, the scryer begins a free association with the perceived images suggested, for instance in a crystal ball, by the tiny inclusions, web-like faults and/or the cloudy glow within the ball under low light (i.e. candlelight).

The technique of deliberately looking for and declaring these initial images aloud, however trivial or irrelevant they may seem to the conscious mind, is done with the intent of deepening the trance state, wherein the scryer hears their own disassociated voice affirming what is seen within the concentrated state in a kind of feedback loop. This process culminates in the achievement of a final and desired end stage in which visual images and dramatic stories seem to be projected within the mind’s eye of the scryer, like an inner movie. This overall process reputedly allows the scryer to “see” relevant events or images within the chosen medium.

Scrying has been used for thousands of years by different cultures. Ancient Egypt used scrying in their Initiations.   This included water scrying, dream scrying, oil scrying, and mirror scrying. One legend states that the goddess Hathor carried a shield that could reflect back all things in their true light. From this shield she allegedly fashioned the first magic mirror to “see.”

Ancient Persia — the Shahnama, a semi-historical epic work written in the late 10th century, gives a description of what was called the Cup of Jamshid, used in pre-Islamic Persia, which was used by wizards and practitioners of the esoteric sciences for observing all the seven layers of the universe.

Ancient Greeks and Celts practiced scrying using beryl, crystal, black glass, polished quartz, water, and other transparent or light catching bodies.  Nostradamus is believed to have employed a small bowl of water as a scrying tool into which he gazed and received images of future events. Alchemists Edward Kelley and John Dee employed a form of scrying using a small crystal ball or shewstone – a piece of polished obsidion. The crystal ball and wax tablets used by Dee and Kelley are on display at the British Museum in London.

Scrying is the occult practice of using a medium, most commonly a reflective surface or translucent body, to aid perceived psychic abilities such as clairvoyance. The media often used to “see” are water, polished precious stones, crystal balls, or mirrors. Scrying, in this context, uses a “visual” process. There are some who believe the art of scrying is not limited to the use of “reflective” or “translucent” bodies only, but includes other media. Scrying has been used in many cultures as a means of seeing the past, present, or future; in this sense scrying constitutes a form of divination.

 

Source:
Crystalinks.com

A Little Humor For Your Day – Ten Indications of a New Year Hangover

      Ten Indications of a New Year Hangover

  1. You get it into your head that chirping birds are the Devil’s   pets.
  2. Trying to gain control of the situation, you continue to tell your   room to “Stay still.”
  3. Looking at yourself in the mirror induces the same reaction as   drinking a glass of fresh paint.
  4. The bathroom reminds you of the fairground cry, “Step right up and   give it whirl!”
  5. You’d rather chew tacks than be exposed to sunlight.
  6. You set aside an entire afternoon to spend some quality time with   your toilet.
  7. You replace the traditional praying on your knees with the more   feasible praying in a fetal position.
  8. Your catch phrase is, “Never again.”
  9. You could purchase a new fridge on the proceeds from recycling the   bottles around your bed.
  10. Your new response to “Good morning,” is “Be quiet!”

 

New Year Jokes and Funny Stories

Daily Feng Shui News for Jan. 1st – ‘New Year’s Eats’

Happy New Year! I wish you the most magical and wonderful 2014 you can ever hope to have. Towards that same end, you may want to follow an ages-old tradition that promises to put that wish in action. Legend says that on this day a grand feast should be eaten that includes salmon (for long life and wisdom), cabbage (for fortune and riches), and mandarin oranges (for good health and even better luck). Nutritional experts agree that eating fish is good for the brain, cabbage for the liver and oranges are filled with vitamin C to help support your healthy immune system. Bon appetit. Bon New Year!

By Ellen Whitehurst for Astrology.com

Your Charm for January 1st is The Tusk

Your Charm for Today

The TuskToday’s Meaning:    

There is a good vibration surrounding this aspect. It feels better than it has in quite some time. Maintain your faith in your deity of choice and this good vibration will remain. Waiver from your faith and this good vibration will dissipate.

General Description:   

This Etruscan talisman – a tusk carved in basalt, and elaborately mounted in gold filigree work – was worn as a protector from danger and evil influences. The charm was supposed to attract good fortune and success. The Tusk represented one of the horns of the Crescent Moon, which was a symbol of the Egyptian goddess Isis, who, in the course of time, became the most universal nad powerful of all the goddesses. The Etruscans, Greeks and romans had great faith in the reputed virtues of amulets, a belief which was greatly influenced by the Egyptians.

Your Animal Spirit for January 1st is The Cardinal

Your Animal Spirit for Today
January 1, 2014

 

Cardinal

Wake up! Cardinal is chirping at you—bringing a message of personal power. Stop shrinking from your destiny. Stop pretending that you are less than. If you are unsure of your path, ask Cardinal to fly with you—it’s certain he will help you focus, gain clarity, formulate a plan, become self-assured, and step out into the world with the confidence befitting a person of your power.

Your Ancient Symbol Card for Jan. 1st is The Sword

Your Ancient Symbol Card for Today

The Sword

The Sword is a a call to action. It indicates challenges are before you and to attain your goals you will have to address them. The Sword does not suggest rash or underhanded behavior on your part. Indeed, while actions indicated by The Sword are decisive, they are based on the power of your wisdom and ethics. The strength of The Sword lies in the moral purity of your actions.

As a daily card, The Sword suggest a time in which you will face external challenges to attaining your goals. These trials are likely to come from a person or persons who stand to gain from your loss or delays in you moving forward. You can expect underhanded play and surprises. Fortunately your position is far stronger than those who scheme to usurp you. Address challenges as they arise and all will be well.

Your Daily Horoscopes for Wednesday, 1st

We’re determined to make this New Year’s Day a special one. We know that there’s hard work ahead, but still might believe we can overcome all obstacles that are set in our path. The ambitious Capricorn New Moon at 6:14 am EST signals a shift in our responsibilities and its conjunction with potent Pluto strengthens our resolve to reach our goals. Increasing awareness about hidden issues can prevent us from being swept up in the current turmoil.

Aries Horoscope

(Mar 21 – Apr 19)

Unexpected developments lead to a whole new set of possibilities as today’s Capricorn New Moon activates your 10th House of Status. You’re eager to take on a big challenge this year, partly because you could underestimate the amount of work that will be required to complete a project. However, if you can keep your fantasies from distorting the facts, you have an excellent chance to make your dreams come true. Reach outside the box, but don’t leave your common sense behind.

Taurus Horoscope

(Apr 20 – May 20)

Your need for adventure might become obsessive now as the Capricorn New Moon joins relentless Pluto in your 9th House of Big Ideas. No matter how much you try to relax, your current sense of urgency won’t likely disappear. Instead of trying to deny your wanderlust, consider ways to satisfy your needs without turning your life upside down. For example, instead of distracting yourself with unobtainable visions of exotic travel, think about enrolling in a course of study to expand your mind.

Gemini Horoscope

(May 21 – Jun 20)

You are quite serious today and may have a perfect opportunity to demonstrate your sound logic and emotional depth. But stay away from discussions about risky financial investments while the practical Capricorn New Moon triggers your 8th House of Shared Resources. Schemes that promise you a fast fortune should be avoided at all costs. Taking a carefully calculated risk can bring rewards beyond your wildest expectations, but you still need to work hard to receive the payoff.

Cancer Horoscope

(Jun 21 – Jul 22)

A relationship that usually seems safe may test your limits today as you struggle to redefine your boundaries. The Capricorn New Moon joins passionate Pluto in your 7th House of Relationships, possibly attracting an intense person into your life. However, this individual could reflect a portion of yourself that you don’t want to acknowledge. Even if you prefer to hold onto the status quo, dynamic changes are already afoot. Relinquish control and be ready to flow with the currents, wherever they may take you next.

Leo Horoscope

(Jul 23 – Aug 22)

You are enthusiastic about setting new goals and you might think that nothing can distract you from your path. You may even try to start a diet today while the rest of the world is indulging in holiday feasts. You’re strongly driven to clean up your act now that the Capricorn New Moon emphasizes your 6th House of Health. It’s not that you want to have any less fun; it’s just that you are highly motivated to improve your well-being. Your goals are admirable, but give yourself permission to enjoy the celebrations of the season, too.

Virgo Horoscope

(Aug 23 – Sep 22)

You have a lot you want to do today and you’re eager to get the ball rolling. The hardworking Capricorn New Moon highlights your 5th House of Self-Expression, encouraging you to show others how your creativity can add inspiration to an important project. Don’t be surprised if someone likes your work so much that he or she becomes your greatest supporter. Try not to make assumptions about the roles that your allies can play. If another person wants to help, graciously accept the offer with a smile.

Libra Horoscope

(Sep 23 – Oct 22)

You may be so engaged with your family today that you forget about the work-related pressures you temporarily left behind. The dutiful Capricorn New Moon falls in your 4th House of Security, requiring you to concentrate on important domestic concerns. Sidestepping an interpersonal issue isn’t a viable choice because your frustration could precipitate an emotional meltdown. Thankfully, bringing secrets out into the open just might be the preventative measure you need at this time.

Scorpio Horoscope

(Oct 23 – Nov 21)

Your attempts to minimize the intensity of a conversation today may be too little, too late. The Capricorn New Moon connects with shadowy Pluto in your 3rd House of Communication, obscuring the truth and complicating the issue. A recurring argument could feel like a runaway train, but you might not notice how far off the rails it’s gone until you try to stop the ride. Although panic feeds doubt, deep breathing can bring you back to your center. Every word you speak resonates with more intention than you realize, so consciously replace fear with love wherever you go.

Sagittarius Horoscope

(Nov 22 – Dec 21)

You might become quite upset today if someone assumes that your personal possessions are meant to be shared. The industrious Capricorn New Moon is hooking up with suspicious Pluto in your 2nd House of Resources, prompting you to overreact. You could even become hostile if what you own feels like an extension of your identity. If you can’t share nicely now, then you probably shouldn’t be playing with others. A simple change of attitude makes all the difference in the world.

Capricorn Horoscope

(Dec 22 – Jan 19)

Your sense of power is a double-edged sword today because you could be driven by unconscious forces you don’t fully understand. One way of handling this emotional intensity is to create a simple ritual that channels your intentions in a positive manner. The Capricorn New Moon joins perceptive Pluto and communicator Mercury in your sign, so write down your resolutions for the year ahead. Stating your intentions out loud helps you focus so you can begin to fulfill your dreams.

Aquarius Horoscope

(Jan 20 – Feb 18)

You might be inclined to take care of someone else’s needs today, but it’s not a smart idea if you haven’t been asked to help. Acting with compassion is always admirable, but an awkward situation can develop if you assist where it’s not wanted. Don’t express any negative feelings now that the Capricorn New Moon lands in your 12th House of Secrets or your good intentions may backfire. If someone resists your helping hand, kindly wish them well and walk away.

Pisces Horoscope

(Feb 19 – Mar 20)

An emotional disagreement with your friends or family members may lead to discouragement today if your allies seem to be especially hard on you. Group interactions have a high level of intensity now as the Capricorn New Moon joins relentless Pluto in your 11th House of Community. But don’t focus your feelings on any one person; instead, disperse your current emotional charge over as many people as possible. Channeling your excess energy into positive action will help more than you think to lift everyone’s spirits.

Astrology Inspired New Year Resolutions

Astrology Inspired New Year Resolutions

Keep your New Year Resolutions with help from the stars

Sally Philips   Sally Philips on the topics of new year, astrology

It’s that time of year again, when we all promise to correct our bad habits and become perfect people. Riiiiight! As we all know, New Year resolutions are made to be broken … but that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t make them.

Whether we stick to them is not always the point. It’s more about adjusting our focus each year to gain greater awareness. Little by little, that awareness can help us clean up our mucky areas and get closer to living the lives we desire.

Aries (March 21 – April 19)

If one of your resolutions last year was to finish projects that are still sitting on your shelf, it’s time to box them up and make room for a brand new endeavor. Here’s the resolution you will need to make it a success: I won’t start a new project until I finish the one I’m working on.

Taurus (April 20 – May 20)

Your fixed energy makes you great at follow through, but it can also keep you stuck in bad habits. Resolve to tackle a few of your worst ones this year. If you are true to your resolutions for just three months, you will be well on your way to breaking even the most stubborn habit.

Gemini (May 21 – June 20)

Your whirlwind life can be a lot of fun — and it certainly isn’t boring — but it might serve you well to slow down this coming year. Even though patience isn’t your strong suit, try adding a dash of it here and there. It will help you make progress in areas where your bouncy energy has actually been holding you back.

Cancer (June 21 – July 22)

You love your routines and your security, but it’s time to get out of your comfort zone and try something new. Resolve to reach out into unknown territory and see what you find this year. If it feels scary, remember that you’re just coming up on an edge where you need to stretch.

Leo (July 23 – Aug. 22)

Have you used your irresistible charms to capture emotional prisoners this past year? If you’re a player — and you know who you are — resolve to be more devoted this year. Open up that big heart of yours and take your relationships to a deeper level.

Virgo (Aug. 23 – Sept. 22)

Nag, nag, nag … the only time you stop is when you’re nitpicking. Okay, that’s a huge exaggeration … but chances are you’ve gotten on someone’s case a little too often this past year. Resolve to lighten up this year and let others take care of dotting the i’s and crossing the t’s.

Libra (Sept. 23 – Oct. 22)

As hard as you try, you can’t have it both ways. Promise yourself you will make firmer decisions this coming year. You can still weigh all of your alternatives, but when it comes down to the line, make up your mind and stick to it. Your friends and colleagues will breathe a sigh of relief.

Scorpio (Oct. 23 – Nov. 21)

Keeping secrets adds to your mysterious allure, but there’s a limit. If you’re using your power to manipulate others, that’s where it needs to end. Resolve to be more transparent with those close to you this year. Let them in on your deepest secrets and enjoy the fruits of greater intimacy.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22 – Dec. 21)

You’re good at thinking big and you shouldn’t change that this year … but you might want to put more time into developing strategies that will help you reach your lofty goals. Remember — a goal without a plan is just a dream — so make this the year you follow through.

Capricorn (Dec. 22 – Jan. 19)

Here’s your mantra-resolution: It’s not all about money. Keep pursuing the almighty dollar if you like, but also take time to smell the roses that line your path to success. Your friends and family need you. Resolve to be more generous with your time and attention.

Aquarius (Jan. 20 – Feb. 18)

Even though we all love your quirkiness, it wouldn’t hurt to develop a bit more tolerance for the traditional. As it’s the flip side of where you usually put your energy, it may feel uncomfortable. But you shine when it comes to breaking the mold, so surprise everyone (again!) with a side of you they’ve never seen.

Pisces (Feb. 19 – March 20)

This is the year to put your compassion to better use. Resolve to find a project where you can help others in need. Your understanding and supportive nature is a gift you need to give on a regular basis. Reach out and extend it beyond your friends and family.

New Moon in Capricorn Horoscopes

New Moon in Capricorn Horoscopes

Short and long-term concerns

Jeff Jawer   Jeff Jawer on the topics of new moon, horoscopes, Capricorn, astrology

The ordinarily well-organized Capricorn New Moon on January 1, 2014, New Year’s Day, occurs right in the midst of other intense planetary connections. Provocative Pluto joins the Sun and Moon while aggressive Mars, revolutionary Uranus and expansive Jupiter form stressful aspects to this union. Chaos and uncertainty are undesirable effects, yet flexible-but-committed people can ride these powerful forces to professional and personal breakthroughs as we kick off the new year. Keep reading to see what your sign can expect.

Aries (March 21 – April 19)

Career issues are likely to break out suddenly within the coming four weeks as this New Moon in Capricorn lands in your 10th House of Profession. Resentment of rules, boring routines, and authority figures could trigger explosive responses. It’s fine to recognize that you need more stimulating work, but it is wiser to be strategic in making plans than to allow an impulsive reaction to force you to make changes before you’re ready.

Taurus (April 20 – May 20)

Your vision of the future could be shaken with this volatile New Moon in your 9th House of Higher Truth. Challenging your beliefs is to be expected and will be healthier if you’re the one making this happen. You can free yourself of outmoded expectations as light bulbs of awareness go off in your head now. The realization that additional education may be needed to reach your new and loftier goals could even send you back to school.

Gemini (May 21 – June 20)

Whatever agreements and understandings you have with other people could be shaken up with this wild and crazy New Moon. The normally reliable Capricorn lunation lands in your 8th House of Deep Sharing where financial and romantic alliances are ripe for breakdowns or breakthroughs. If you’re seeking a partner one may suddenly appear, yet it’s best to think long and hard before making any lasting commitments.

Cancer (June 21 – July 22)

Relationships are rocked by this volatile Capricorn New Moon in your 7th House of Partners. Reliable people may suddenly become unavailable, although it’s also possible that your interest in sticking to the status quo will disappear. Experimenting in who you connect with and how you work or play together reduces the stress of trying to stick to an old plan or stay on track when your needs and circumstances suddenly change.

Leo (July 23 – Aug. 22)

This explosive Sun-Moon conjunction occurs in your 6th House of Employment, Health and Daily Routines. Expect shakeups in these areas of life, which can be exciting and liberating if you’re willing to change. Curiosity and flexibility are better allies than persistence and loyalty under these circumstances. Developing new skills is an excellent way to tap into the powerful shifts that are likely to happen now.

Virgo (Aug. 23 – Sept. 22)

A fresh and bold approach to presenting your professional ideas and sharing your romantic desires is appropriate at this time. This is an exciting and volatile New Moon in your 5th House of Performance that could alter the ways that you express yourself. Giving yourself permission to explore and play instead of taking yourself so seriously reduces pressure and should provide you with more creativity, fun and freedom.

Libra (Sept. 23 – Oct. 22)

Family matters and security issues can explode suddenly with this electrifying New Moon in your 4th House of Roots. Secrets may be exposed and emotions expressed that have been too intense to share before. Giving yourself the liberty to think and feel outside the box can reveal different ways to feel at ease where you are, or to make the bold moves needed to find security in more stimulating forms.

Scorpio (Oct. 23 – Nov. 21)

Surprising sources of information can open up with this dynamic New Moon in your 3rd House of Communication. Secrets may be exposed, which can help to clear the air in personal matters. But this is also a chance to open your mind to different subjects and to express yourself more freely. Reactions to what you say or hear, though, can be very strong so temper your words and slow your response time to maintain peace.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22 – Dec. 21)

Financial issues could take a sudden turn with this electrifying Capricorn New Moon in your 2nd House of Assets. While this might be unsettling when it comes to money, it can also awaken you to new and different ways to boost your income. If you have talents that haven’t been fully exploited, this is a time when you can recover old abilities and apply them to put more excitement and, perhaps, more cash into your life.

Capricorn (Dec. 22 – Jan. 19)

This New Moon in your sign is a time when you could feel like you’re starting over. You generally prefer to stick to plans and carefully build on what you’ve done before. Yet while this lunation marks a radical departure from the past that might feel alienating, it also offers you a chance to alter your attitude, approach, and appearance in ways that make you more appealing to others and more interesting to yourself.

Aquarius (Jan. 20 – Feb. 18)

Don’t freak out if you encounter ghosts from the past during the next four weeks. This explosive New Moon lands in your 12th House of Spirituality and Secrets where unfaced issues and unfinished business can grab your attention. It’s wise to pull back and take all the time you need to reflect upon your life. The potential for breakthroughs increases when you allow yourself to imagine a radically different future.

Pisces (Feb. 19 – March 20)

Your connections with friends and colleagues may require some adjustments as this transformative New Moon lands in your 11th House of Groups. Chaos within organizations or unreliability among pals and co-workers can cause sudden shifts that shake your relationships. Holding on tightly to the past is won’t reduce stress and increase opportunities, but giving yourself the freedom to let go and move on will.

Daily Cosmic Calendar for January 1st

First off the bat as the New Year begins is the monthly New Moon (activating 11 degrees of Capricorn at 3:15AM). Any new alignment of the solar and lunar orbs can generate a dynamic, forward momentum across the board. Then, in fairly rapid succession, the Moon is conjunct mysterious-secretive Pluto (3:45AM), Venus makes an inspirational, 72-degree link to radical-change agent Uranus (4:29AM), the Moon unites with communication-boosting Mercury (6:33AM) and parallels Venus (7:03AM) — all leading up to our main course, the first Sun-Pluto rendezvous on a New Year’s day in 247 years at 10:58AM.  Hit the psychology, metaphysical and self-help books with a vengeance. Learn more about reincarnation, fears and phobias, and how to eliminate them in order to dissipate many of the hidden, root causes of human suffering.  As a dessert, try to savor the mentally-expansive, monthly Moon-Jupiter polarity (11:10AM) and a problem-solving enhancement arriving at 3:16PM when Mercury trines Pallas in earth signs. Not to be outdone, Mars makes a contra-parallel with Uranus (11:43PM) — with these two, potential planetary mischief-makers adding another psychic storm (particularly influencing relationships), and somewhat akin in nature to the Sun uniting with Pluto, to your New Year’s Day agenda.  [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 January 1st

Calendar of the Moon

1 Luis/Gamelion

Day of the Rowan Tree

Color: Light grey
Element: Earth
Altar: On a cloth of light grey set a vase of rowan twigs, gathered ahead of time and forced into budding, dried rowan berries from the preceding year, a single red candle, a pot of soil, seeds, a bowl of water, and a bell.
Offering: Plant seeds. Keep your dreams alive.
Daily Meal: Vegan. Red food.

Invocation to the Green Man of the Rowan Tree

Hail, Green Man of the Winter!
Rowan tree of the mountains,
Slender of stalk and many of leaf,
Sacred berries that break any spell
And ward any home,
Red as the ochre of our ancestors,
Red as the food of the gods,
Brigid’s pride, magical branch,
Protector of doorways,
Protector of children,
Expunger of evil,
Fire of the forge,
Floods across the plain,
Duck who rides the flood,
We hail you, sacred rowan tree,
Green Man of the Winter,
On this the time of your dreaming.

Chant:
I rise with the sap,
I feel the deep spark,
I find joy in the cold,
I bend with the winds.

(Each comes forward and plants a seed in the pot of soil, saying, “Hail Green Man of the Earth!” Water is poured onto the pot, and then the rest is poured out as a libation. Ring bell and dismiss.)

[Pagan Book of Hours]

Calendar of the Sun for January 1st

Calendar of the Sun

1 Wolfmonath

Kalends: Day of the Moerae

Colors: White, red, and black.
Element: Air
Altar: Drape with cloths of white, red, and black, and place upon it three candles in these same colors, three goblets in these same colors holding white wine, red wine, and elderberry wine, a spindle wound with handspun thread, a piece of woven cloth, and a large knife or pair of shears.
Offerings: Libations of wine.
Daily Meal: Vegan. Should be eaten in silence.

Invocation to the Moerae

(Light the white candle and raise the spindle.)
Spin truth into words,
Spin words into doom,
Spin doom into fortune,
Spin fortune into life,
Spin my life fine and strong,
O Lady with the spindle
Whose thread is my beginning.
(All take a piece of thread from the spindle. Pour out the white wine as a libation. Light the red candle and lift the woven cloth high.)
Weave truth into vision,
Weave vision into mind,
Weave mind into spirit,
Weave spirit into life,
Weave my life with depth and color,
O Lady with the shuttle
Whose tapestry is my existence.
(All knot their thread. Pour out the red wine. Light the black candle and lift the shears high.)
Cut truth away from falsehood,
Cut falsehood away from illusion,
Cut illusion away from matter,
Cut matter away from body,
Cut my body away from my life
When the time comes,
O Lady with the shears
Whose knowing hand is my doom
And also my truth.
(The leader of the ritual drapes his or her head with a cloth of black and walks around the circle, cutting each thread in silence. The cut threads are laid upon the altar as an offering, and all sit in silence, meditating on their Fate and that of the coming year. Leave in silence.)

[Pagan Book of Hours]