Category: All Regular Daily Posts

October Lore — the Dumb Supper

October Lore

The Dumb Supper

Samhain is a celebration of death, and as such it is marked by several traditions.  One of these is the Feast of the Dead, sometimes called the Dumb Supper.  This has many variations — from a complete meal shared by the living, with places set at the table for the dead, to the simple leaving of cakes and wine, or any similar combination, by the fireside on Samhain Night.  And this is the most traditional time for communication with the dead.  For this reason, after welcoming them into your Samhain Circle through the Western Gate, the direction of death, you can allow the spirits of the deceased to communicate with you if they so desire.  One method is the wineglass.

Similar to a ouija board but without the undeserved sinister reputation, the wineglass is just that, an inverted wineglass (the champagne type is better than the wine type, as t is less likely to tip).  The glass is surrounded by a circle of letters.  An alphabet in Gothic style drawn on squares of white paper helps to create an appropriate atmosphere.

It must be mentioned here that many occultists turn up their noses at such devices as the ouija board, the pendulum board, and, no doubt, the wineglass, preferring instead personal mediumship, or channeling, as it is currently being called.  But we believe that entities willing to take control of the body or voice of another individual cannot be of the highest calibre.  Nor is every scene that passes before the inner eye psychic or spiritual, or the motivations that created them always spiritually pure.  This is not to say that we do not believe in either channeled information or that which is received psychically.  We most certainly do, but we have seen many instances of self-delusion, which is one of the greatest barriers to true spiritual development.

The wineglass, on the other hand, has several built-in safety devices. It cannot be easily operated alone, so spiritual possession is less likely, and since two or more people are operating it, self-delusion is not so easy.  It is interesting to note, too, that the wineglass brings with it some intrinsic symbolism.  It is a vessel or container for wine, itself a symbol for spiritual awareness, so the wineglass is a container for spiritual knowledge.

The wineglass can be used within the Samhain Circle.  The four quarters of the Circle may be marked with candles in jack-o’-lanterns, and an extra candle, an indigo blue one (the colour symbolizing the higher spiritual planes), should also be lit.  This candle might be anointed with oil and marked with a rune such as û` that describes the travel between the planes.  After a moment of meditation each person present places a fingertip on the upturned base of the wineglass and the traditional “Is anyone here that wishes to give us a message?” is asked. Then as the glass slides from one letter to the next, rapidly spelling out messages, read the words.  You may find it easier to use a tape recorder because it can get confusing.  At this, the most solemn of Pagan festivals, the messages are often personal and profound.

from: “Wheel of the Year” by Pauline Campanelli

October Lore — Pumpkins

October Lore

Pumpkins

The sights and sounds and smells of October bring about in all of us subtle changes, and as our bodies begin to change metabolism, preparing us for shorter Winter days, our consciousness begins to shift from the more actively mental to the more physically receptive state appropriate to the dark half of the year.  As all of these changes are taking place we are busy preparing for the most magical night of the year, Halloween.

The outward manifestations of these internal changes begin to appear around the house.  On the back porch a pumpkin and gourds are the centrepiece of the picnic table, while the grapevine wreath on the door is adorned with a huge black (and orange) bow…. On the front porch pumpkins and colourful squash nestle against the old red butter churn, and sprays of bittersweet are added to the bunch of Indian corn that hangs by the front door.  Bundles of dried cornstalks flank the front steps, and as the month progresses grinning jack-o’-lanterns stare from the windows.  We carefully cut the eyeholes of each jack-o’-lantern so that they appear to be watching anyone that approaches the front porch. As night falls their flaming grins and fiery eyes stare from every window.

The origin of the jack-o’-lantern is obscure, but no doubt started in the New World.  The name used to apply to a natural phenomenon, a luminous glow in the eastern sky after sunset.  It may be that since the sunset in the west symbolized death, this glow in the east symbolized the spiritual survival of death.

Today in Ireland, candles are lit in cottage windows on Samhain night to welcome the spirits of the deceased.  In faraway Japan, on a night equivalent to Halloween, the spirits of the deceased are welcomed home by glowing paper lanterns hung by garden gates.  How the candle got inside the pumpkin may remain forever a mystery, but there can be little doubt that the jack-o’-lantern originated as a beacon light to welcome the spirits who roam freely among us on this night of Halloween.

I found the following in the World Book Encyclopedia:

… Many superstitions and symbols are connected with Halloween.  The Irish have a tale about the origin of jack-o’-lanterns.  They say that a man named Jack was unable to enter heaven because of his miserliness. he could not enter hell because he had played practical jokes on the devil.  So he had to walk the earth with his lantern until Judgment Day.

The Druids, an order of priests in ancient Gaul and Britain, believed that on Halloween, ghosts, spirits, fairies, witches, and elves came out to harm people.  They thought the cat was sacred and believed that cats had once been human beings but were changed as a punishment for evil deeds.  From these Druidic beliefs comes the present-day use of witches, ghosts, and cats in Halloween festivities.

The Druids had an autumn festival called *Samhain*, or *summer’s end*. It was an occasion for feasting on all kinds of food which had been grown during the summer.  The early peoples of Europe also had a festival similar to the Druid holiday.

In the 700’s, the Roman Catholic Church named November 1 as All Saints’ Day.  The old pagan customs and the Christian feast day were combined into the Halloween festival….

 

from: World Book Encyclopedia

October Lore — Apples

October Lore

Apples

This is the time of the apple harvest: winesaps, greenings, macintosh, red and yellow delicious, and the antique varieties of sops of wine, sheep nose and smokehouse.  There are apples to fill fruit bowls for immediate eating, apples that keep well for Winter storage, and apples that make the best pie ever.  The back porch smells of hot applesauce laced with cinnamon, which is canned by the case.

Apples have always been magically important.  The Celts “wassailed” their apple trees to insure a bountifull harvest in the coming year. Traditionally wassail was made of hard cider that was heated with spices and had apples floating on top.  These apples, when heated enough, would burst their skins, and the white flesh would form a froth on top of the wassail.  There is much reason to believe that wassailing was performed at Samhain or Halloween as it was at Yule. Samhain is the time of the apple harvest, and there are many traditions in which apples are very important.  Samhain was the New Year of the Celtic calendar, and probably several traditions got shifted to Yuletide when the calendar was changed.  Wassailing the apple trees, no doubt, was one of these.

Candy apples are a traditional trick or treat gift at Halloween. Another tradition is bobbing for apples, or “dooking,” as it is called in Scotland. (Description of how to dook…)  This game may have developed directly from the apples that floated on the wassail of earlier Halloweens.

Another traditional Halloween game is apple on a string. (Description) This game may have evolved from people playing a similar game while the apples still hung on the tree, and this may have been done in imitation of certain animals.  But it is more likely that these games developed in the spirit of fun and play that is the essence of Pagan celebration.

Apples also have a history of being used for healing (“An apple a day keeps the doctor away”), especially for curing warts.  The most typical method is to slice an apple in half and rub both halves over the wart or affliction to be cured. The put the two halves back together and bury them in the Earth while reciting an enchantment to the effect that as the apple wastes away, so will the wart or other affliction.

When an apple is sliced in half horizontally it reveals hidden within its core a five-pointed star.  When an apple is being cut in half for magical purposes it should be cut this way in order to take full advantage of the secret magical sign.  And of course it should be cut with the boline (magically charged white- handled knife).

The apple harvest can be celebrated on the day that it is completed with a meal that features apples, apple fritters, apple pie, or applesauce.  Select one tree to represent all of the apple trees in the orchard, whether it is the oldest, tallest, or most productive.  Draw and consecrate a Circle around the tree and stand within it facing the tree.  holding a cup of spiced cider or apple wine, anoint the tree by drawing a pentacle with a finger dipped in the cup of liquid. Draw the pentacle at eye level on the tree trunk or just below where all the branches begin.  Recite something such as:

Here’s to thee, Apple tree Flowers at Beltane Fruit at Samhain Apple tree, Blessed be!

Then drink a toast to the tree and pour a libation at its roots, and eat the food of the feast within the Circle.

Spells For All Occasions – Some Spell Ethics

Spells for all occasions

Some Spell Ethics

The central ethic within Wicca is, “An ye harm none, do as ye will.” This applies not just to spells and rituals, but also to everyday life as well, ya know… Besides, with concepts such as Karma or The Threefold Law, I wouldn’t want to do anything harmful for fear of that harm coming back to me, most likely three times as bad.

We as Pagans should set a good example anyhow. For many many, many years, Witches have been cast out as being “evil” people, or we have wrongly taken the blame when something goes wrong. Yes, it is the 1990’s, and one would think by now that such medieval notions would have been forgotten by now. But, that isn’t the way it is. So, I believe that it is up to us to break those myths. It is up to us to say, “HEY WORLD!!! I AM NOT A BAD PERSON!!!!!

Anything causing harm to anyone, including oneself and others, and anything that limits anyone’s free will should be expressly avoided!!!

For example, one of the questions hear get the most is, “Corky, how do I make So-And-So fall madly in love with me?” The answer is simply, “You don’t.” Forcing someone in specific to fall in love with you is limiting their free will. So, how can this be avoided? Well, let’s say that all the person wants is to find a romantic partner and that in their mind, this person is the best choice. Why not do a spell for “A lover who is perfect for me.” and put the energy out into the universe to bring whoever that is into your life.

There are a lot of people out there who say that doing any spell for any self- glorification is bad. I, personally, do not see things this way. Yes, if you are doing spells to make yourself the best person in the world so that you can show off to all your friends and the people in the checkout line at the local supermarket, yes, I do believe that would be true. Every now and then, whenever the need or want arrives, I feel it is OK to splurge a little.

So, if you are planning on doing a spell that may or may not be ethical, how can you figure out weather or not to do the spell? Well, one good idea is to think it over. What is my specific need or want? Are there any other ways to go about getting it? Another good idea, if you know anything about tarot or runes or ??? is to do a reading of some sort to see what the results (or consequences) of doing such a spell would be, and to take the results of the reading into consideration before performing the spell.

The Spells

To Bless a New Relationship

Bake a fresh loaf of bread. Hold it up to the moon and ask the lady to bless the bread as well as the relationship. Break off a piece of the bread for your partner, as well as one for yourself as well. As you share time together, share the bread as well. (Do not cut the bread with a knife or any other cutting tool. Just break off the pieces with your hands. Adding butter or jam might be a good idea to help sweeten things up a bit.)

To Attract a Love

Play a CD or Tape of some romantic music that means something to you. Make sure that the music does not include songs that you associate with another person. It is important to keep specific people out of your mind performing this spell. On a sheet of cardboard, light a candle of your favorite color to represent you. Then, light a red or pink candle to represent whoever your new love may be. Using a red magic marker or crayon, draw a heart around the red candle. Every day for at least a week, relight the candles in the evening, and as soon as you light the candles, move them slightly closer together, so that on the last day, the candles are as close together as possible.

To Heal a Friendship

Shortly after an argument, buy a greeting card which closely expresses what you would like to say to your friend. Rub the greeting card with lavender leaves before you give it to them or mail it to ensure that it is well received.

To Bring Adventure to Your Life

Sprinkle the soles of your shoes with some cinnamon and place some almonds in your pocket before setting out for the day.

To Protect From Nightmares

Fill a small pillowcase with anise seeds, dragon’s blood, and lavender and place the pillowcase under your pillow when you go to sleep. Ask the Celtic Goddess, Mare (MAH-re), the bringer of dreams to only bring you nice dreams.

To Quiet a Noisy House

Powder some dragon’s blood, and in a small bottle, mix it with sugar and salt. Cover tightly and secure it someplace in the home where it will not be seen or disturbed. This will help keep things peaceful and quiet.

For A Peaceful Home

Gather freshly cut parsley and place it in a pan of water. Let it soak for nine minutes, and then sprinkle the water throughout the house while visualizing a calm environment. Peace will be restored.

For Protection and Purification (Bath)

Steep a teaspoon of basil in a cup of boiling water, and strain out the herb. Add it to you bath water for a protective and cleansing influence. It is particularly useful to clean off the feelings left by contact with those who are negative or controlling.

To Attract Customers to a Business or Visitors to a Home

Make a fine powder out of some basil leaves and sprinkle them around the main entrance to the home or place of business. It is believed that only good and friendly people will enter, since it supposedly repels those who intend harm toward the workers of a business or the occupants of a home.

To Lose Your Troubles

Take a handful of earth and gaze into it. Put all your troubles and thoughts of distress into it. State exactly what it is that’s troubling you. When finished, throw the dirt behind you and walk away without turning around to look at it.

To Bring Certain Influences Into Your Life

In a plot of prepared land, or in a medium sized flower pot, sow the seeds of an appropriate plant in the form of a symbol or rune representative of your need. Tend to the plants. After they sprout, draw a circle around them in the earth or soil with your power hand. Stand in quiet contemplation of the growing, living symbol. As it has sprung into existence, so shall your need.

You may want to look in a magical herbal book for the magical influences of certain herbs.

To Help Heal Depression

Light a green candle. As you gaze into the candle for a few moments, try to relax as much as you can and clear all thoughts from your mind. Visualize the Mother Goddess sitting in front of you. Listen for a moment to hear if she has any words of encouragement for you. Visualize her next hugging your and holding you as you rock gently back and forth from side to side easing away your pain and sorrow.

Another good idea, if you suffer from chronic depression is to see a therapist of some sort. There may be another way to deal with your problems, and sometimes just talking about it helps too.

To Enchant A Book

Light a blue and an indigo candle. Invoke a Goddess of Wisdom, and ask for her help to enchant the book. Inscribe the book letting the inscription express the desired wish.

To Help in Times of Financial Difficulties

With clove or cinnamon oil, trace a money symbol or rune on the largest denomination of bill that you have. Put this in your wallet and resist spending it for as long as you can. Every time you look at the bill, visualize the rune to reinforce its power.

WRITING SPELLS

WRITING SPELLS

Below are some steps that will help you get started when writing your own spells. Please keep in mind that this is not the only way to write your own spells. There is no right or wrong answer when it comes to creating your own spells. A spell comes from your heart, not some universal law.

Your Spell’s Rough Draft

This is the construction process of a spell.

Define Purpose- Decide what it is you would like to accomplish with this spell.

Locate Correspondences- Look for various herbs, gemstones, colors, etc that correspond with the spell and look for other supplies you will need as well (e.g. working tools) .Also decide how you will use the correspondences during the spell. This could be anything from simply placing them on the alter in a given position to creating a charm or amulet.

Casting the Circle- Decide what technique you will use to open and close your circle.

Calling the Quarters / Inviting the God and Goddess- Decide what technique you will use to call the quarters (the elements) and invite the God and Goddess. (Note: this step or part of this step does not always have to be included in your spell)

Meditation- Decide on a meditation technique you would like to use during your spell.

Your Spell’s Final Draft

This is the sequence in which you may follow when casting a spell.

Set up the Alter Casting the Circle Call the Quarters and Inviting the God and Goddess Correspondences (place correspondences on the alter, light candles, etc.) Stating the Purpose (this can be done through rhyme, although it doesn’t have to) Charging the Charm/Amulet (if you choose to have a charm, this is the time to charge it) Meditate Thank the Quarters and the God and Goddess Snuff out Candles Close the Circle

-author unknown-

Spells and Spell Casting

Spells and Spell Casting

When talking about spells and spell casting you can get into some sticky situations. No other subject can cause so many divisions in the pagan community.

It seems that there are as many different ways and ethical practices as there are gods and goddesses in the universe. If you take into consideration that spells and the way you cast them is what makes them effective it begins to make perfect sense why.

In effective spell casting there are three very important ingredients that you must have, resolve, focus, and comfort.

Without resolve there can be no change, it is your commitment to an action that is the basis of a spell. You have to really want it! Without a genuine intention to effect a change you are casting magic to the wind, cluttering up an otherwise flowing universe. Spells without resolve can be detrimental undirected or worse misdirected energy is free to change unknown situations.

Make sure you really want the change you are trying to make. When you get it, it’s yours. This is where a little divination would come in handy to make sure you will be truly happy with the outcome of your spell.

Focus, direction, or meditation, how good can aim? The focus of your spell casting is as important as the resolve to make a change. If you can’t see the broad side of a barn you will not have the ability to effect a change on it. You have to be able to taste it! If you physically build a dog house, you have to have some idea what it will look like when you are done. A spell is like a dog house, if you don’t know what it’s supposed to look like when your done, you could very well end up with a failed attempt or worse. You have to belive it’s possible. If you can’t belive that something is possible it’s not. Anything is possible if you truly belive it can happen. If you belive you can make a change and you know how the change will take place and you can picture the end result of your spell, you are there.

Comfort is easy, if you can’t ethically accept the responsibility for your spell or there is something that bothers you about what you are trying to do or how you are going about it, don’t. You are the power in your spell, you are the creator and the control.

Poor comfort will mess up your focus and your resolve. Without comfort you will have a very poor spell at best.

Spell Working

SPELL WORKING

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

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

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

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

For example:

Aries/action – enthusiasm

Taurus/renewal – sensuality

Gemini/communication – curiosity

Cancer/emotion – nurturing

Leo/vitality – determined

Virgo/organizing – studious

Libra/balance – cooperation

Scorpio/sexual – philosophical

Sagitarius/strength – humour

Capricorn/authority – ambitious

Aquarius/innovation – social

Pisces/sensitivity – idealistic.

Bear in mind that magickal workings for gain, increase or bringing things to you, should be initiated when the moon is waxing (from dark to full);  when the moon is waning (from full to dark), it is time for magickal workings of decrease or sending away.

The highest energy occurs at the full moon and, therefore, this is the most powerful time for magickal workings.  The new moon is the next most powerful time for magick.

Whenever possible, follow nature’s natural energy currents.  There is a natural time for starting things (a planting time), for maturing things (a growing time), for reaping things ( a harvest time) and, of course, a time for rest and planning.

Flowing with these currents will make your magickal work much easier. remember to plan your project for a time of uninterrupted privacy.  It is important that you have no distractions.  Generally speaking, it is best to work as late at night as possible.  A time when there is less frantic energy is most appropriate.  You might consider midnight or later.

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

Prior to the night of your magickal working, gather together the things that you will need.  All of the things used are tools.  They have no inherent magick.  They are to help you create a mood.  If correctly made and used, they will trigger primitive responses from deep within you.  They should be chosen with care.  Consider the purpose of your ritual and choose your tools accordingly.  If your magick is to be sexual, your candles, oils, incenses and so forth, should bring forth a sexual response.  If the desired result of your magick is tranquillity, then the tools should make you feel calm, peaceful and serene.  Any candles you might use should not have commercially added fragrances as these may not be appropriate for your working.

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

Most often a ritual bath is the preferred method.  A bath frequently utilizing candlelight, fragrant herbs, bath salts or sensuous oils. A sumptuous hot bath, special bathing preparations and appropriate lighting, combined, can create the soothing effect which will help in the very important step of relaxing and clearing the mind completely of all mundane thoughts and experiences of the day.  Your ritual bath should, also, begin to set the specific vibrations conducive to your purpose into motion.  You must not only cleanse and purify but must, also, begin to create the type of energy necessary. Once your purification process has been accomplished, you are now ready to begin.  Proceed to the special place you have previously chosen in which to perform your magick.  If at all possible, you should make use of the primitive responses set into motion by a well chosen piece of music.  Your music should start slowly and build to a rousing climax.

More Hints For Successful Spellcasting

More Hints For Successful Spellcasting

Success in spellcrafting, as with any art, comes from practice and patience.
Medieval monks didn’t learn to brew world-renowned beverages overnight, nor did da Vinci create a masterpiece without making some mistakes. So, be patient with yourself in honing your magical arts and follow these suggestions to help get over the rough spots:

Bring as many of your senses into the magical procedure as possible to clarify
and delineate its purpose(s).

Always visualize your intentions in detail while you work.

Repeat spells whenever you feel the need. Each reiteration provides supportive
energy for manifestation.

Phrase the verbal component to be geared toward your specific intentions.

If you are uncomfortable with vocalizing spells, you can mentally recite them
just as effectively. Remember, thoughts are words uttered inwardly.

Eliminate, substitute, or augment any prop/focal you desire.

Be certain to maintain the congruity of meaning.

Use the timing as a guideline, not as an edict. Any time is the right time for
magic!

Make notes of your successes and failures. These memos will prove immensely
helpful in the future.

It is not necessary to use all the props and focals listed in devising your
spell. In fact, trying to do so would probably make the spell unmanageable
(unless you have three hands). Choose only those items that intimately sym-
bolize your goals, and that you feel are necessary to the spell’s construction.

A Little Humor for Oct. 21st – The guide for women

The guide for women

A WOMAN’S GUIDE TO WHAT A MAN IS REALLY SAYING:

I’M HUNGRY.
I’m hungry.

I’M SLEEPY.
I’m sleepy.

I’M TIRED.
I’m tired.

I’VE GOTTA GO.
Get out of the way and stay away until it clears.

WHAT’S WRONG?
I don’t see why you’re making such a big deal out of this.

WHAT’S WRONG?
What meaningless self-inflicted psychological trauma are you going through now?

YES, I LIKE THE WAY YOU CUT YOUR HAIR.
I liked it better before.

YES, I LIKE THE WAY YOU CUT YOUR HAIR.
$50 and it doesn’t look that much different!

YES, I LIKE THE WAY YOU CUT YOUR HAIR.
For $50 they should have GIVEN YOU hair!

LET’S TALK, HONEY.
I’m trying to impress you by showing you that I am a deep person, and maybe then you’d like to have sex with me.

WILL YOU MARRY ME?
I want to make it illegal for you to have sex with other guys.

WILL YOU MARRY ME?
I might as well get tax benefits for going through these talks.

Daily Feng Shui News for Oct. 21st – ‘Information Overload Day’

Coming right after yesterday’s ‘Information Overload Day’ is another day that suspects that you have your head in the clouds. It’s ‘National Clean Your Virtual Desktop Day’ and I’m sensing a clutter theme — in this case, tech clutter like unreturned emails and voice messages, undeleted texts and old bookmarks. All this clutter can have the same negative effect as physical clutter. Take some time today to clean up your virtual mess and you’ll feel much more confident and clear.

By Ellen Whitehurst for Astrology.com

Your Charm for Monday, October 21st is The Tortoise

Your Charm for Today

The Tortoise

Today’s Meaning:  

The tortoise represents the dome of the sky, the universe. It tells you to take slow, deliberate steps and you can achieve everything you desire.

General Description:  

In China, Japan, and many other countries in the East, the Tortoise is regarded as a talisman for repelling every description of magic, and the supposed malign influence of the evil eye. This jade charm is also used as a powerful amulet for good fortune, happiness, both of the heart and body, endurance, strength, and longevity. In Eastern Asia the Tortoise is regarded as the symbol of the universe, the dome of the sky being represented by the shell, and the earth by the body of the tortoise.

Your Animal Spirit for October 21st is the Badger

Your Animal Spirit for Today
October 21, 2013

 

Badger

Badger is a ferocious opponent, unwilling to back down over any issue. Unfortunately, this unwavering stance leads some Badgers to their demise. If Badger has dug into your reading, he is asking whether you are fighting the right fight. Is this issue the hill you’re willing to die on, or are you fighting for no other reason than pure stubbornness?  Think about it.

Your Ancient Symbol Card for October 21st 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

Daily Chinese Horoscope for October 21st

CHINESE ASTROLOGY: YEAR OF THE SNAKE

October 21, 2013

In the love realm, you must produce something other than jokes so that your indiscretions will be forgiven; try small gifts. New friendly ties will be created, and it will be in your best interest to cultivate them. You’ll be in shaky physical form: bad nervous resistance and lethargy, for instance. The professional initiatives that you’ll take this day will lead you straight along the path to success.

Daily Tarot Card for October 21st is Temperance

Temperance

Monday, Oct 21st, 2013

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

What is traditionally known as the Temperance card is a reference to the Soul. Classically female, she is mixing up a blend of subtle energies for the evolution of the personality. One key to interpreting this card can be found in its title, a play on the process of tempering metals in a forge.

Metals must undergo extremes of temperature, folding and pounding, but the end product is infinitely superior to impure ore mined from the earth. In this image, the soul volunteers the ego for a cleansing and healing experience which may turn the personality inside-out, but which brings out the gold hidden within the heart. (This card is entitled “Art” in the Crowley deck.)

Your Daily Horoscopes for Monday, October 21st

Communication becomes bogged down today, even if we think we’re really clever. There may not be as much forward movement as we wish now that Mercury is retrograde. Loose ends fray and conversations tend to go awry during this three-week period. The mental intensity is kicked up a notch once the Moon enters witty Gemini at 12:13 pm EDT. Additionally, an independent Mars-Uranus alignment prompts us to break out of our routine and seek excitement.

Aries Horoscope

(Mar 21 – Apr 19)

You’re eager to blast off today, but the launch may be postponed due to circumstances beyond your control. Communication issues are emphasized when messenger Mercury begins its three-week retrograde phase. Conversations wander off track if you don’t have all the details in place. Although you might be inclined to take a direct approach, it’s helpful to allow time to assimilate your experiences before doing anything about them.

Taurus Horoscope

(Apr 20 – May 20)

Problems may arise through a misunderstanding with a close friend or intimate partner today. Instead of just brushing conflict aside, it’s best to uncover the source of the disagreement and talk about it while it’s still fresh. Once you see where you went wrong, it will be easier to let it go and move on to something more positive. Extending an olive branch demonstrates your willingness to take the high road.

Gemini Horoscope

(May 21 – Jun 20)

It makes sense today to stop running around from one distraction to another. You won’t get much done if you keep going at this breakneck speed. Unfortunately, you may be required to go back and redo what you didn’t do right the first time around. Paying attention to details now can prevent delays later on. Cultivate patience as a coping skill to help you adjust your pace. Slow and steady wins the race.

Cancer Horoscope

(Jun 21 – Jul 22)

You’re through with struggling to keep your feet on the ground today. Fantasy is overtaking reality, which, ultimately, might turn out surprisingly well. The key is to enjoy your mental meanderings without necessarily acting on your feelings. You could run into trouble if you treat a dream as if it were real. There’s nothing wrong with using your imagination to entertain yourself as long as you remember your way back home.

Leo Horoscope

(Jul 23 – Aug 22)

You’re motivated to get things out in the open, but you may be fighting an uphill battle as a family member or someone at home seems to be keeping secrets. Your lack of clarity could send you into a state of confusion, but you might not want others to know about your uncertainty. Thankfully, a vicious cycle of non-disclosure can be broken once you decide to openly share what’s on your mind. Don’t let pride get in the way of progress.

Virgo Horoscope

(Aug 23 – Sep 22)

Be extra careful as you schedule your time today, since you can’t afford to miss an appointment or get behind in your work. Still, your best intentions can fall short due to an uncharacteristic disregard to the details. Compensate for your current spacey behavior by writing everything down so you don’t forget what you need to remember.

Libra Horoscope

(Sep 23 – Oct 22)

Although you might want to focus all your mental energy on a very practical issue now, it’s rather unlikely that you can prevent your mind from wandering all over the map. You may be distracted by your creative desires or by a less productive romantic interest. Don’t worry so much about what you accomplish today. Give yourself a gift; go ahead and entertain a playful diversion just for the fun of it.

Scorpio Horoscope

(Oct 23 – Nov 21)

You might feel as if you’re enveloped in a self-protective bubble today that insulates you from other people’s problems. But you’re not as safe as you think now that trickster Mercury turns retrograde while visiting your sign, creating the illusion of suspended time. You may be unsure of choices as your moods swing wide and fast, making it difficult to take definitive action. Be gentle with yourself until things settle down and you know which way to go.

Sagittarius Horoscope

(Nov 22 – Dec 21)

You are a study in cosmic contradiction today as you soar into the highest spiritual realms of your imagination. At the same time, however, you are pulled into the emotional shadows where you aren’t as confident. Don’t try to choose one path over the other. If you do, your reverie might suddenly come to an end and you’ll be plunged back into the mundane world again. Oddly enough, you can be in both places at once if you keep both your mind and your heart open.

Capricorn Horoscope

(Dec 22 – Jan 19)

Your impatience with overly emotional friends and coworkers can stir up more trouble than it’s worth today. You don’t want to interact with those who might get in the way of your productivity, but avoidance may not be possible. Others are merely reflecting your own subconscious tendencies now. Let go of your goals for a while and let yourself drift. Funny enough, sinking into your dreams will help you accomplish more in the long run.

Aquarius Horoscope

(Jan 20 – Feb 18)

Instead of pushing forward on your career path, it might make more sense today to take a breather while you integrate your recent experiences. Taking time to regroup and consolidate during the next three weeks may be the best use of this Mercury retrograde phase. You will ultimately gain more ground if you have the wisdom now to relax and reassess your priorities.

Pisces Horoscope

(Feb 19 – Mar 20)

Dreamlike images flood your consciousness today, challenging you to untangle your desires from the real world. But your key planet, surreal Neptune, can easily inspire a spiritual breakthrough now or confuse you with its lack of focus. Don’t worry if the intuitive flashes are impossible to interpret; it may take a while to understand them. You’ll receive great insight about where to go next in your life if you recognize that your colorful visions are direct messages from your subconscious mind.

Your Love Horoscopes for the Week of October 21st

A temporary dark cloud may hover over your love life this week, thanks to Mercury turning retrograde in Scorpio. Now through November 10 there will be an opportunity to revise your thoughts concerning any nagging intimacy issues. Still, you might fumble with your words more than usual as you attempt to have any vulnerable conversations with a lover. By Friday, the Sun and Neptune will be at a magnificent angle, allowing you to feel inspired in every way possible. You’ll see the best in your partner, and in yourself.

 

Aries Horoscope
Aries Horoscope (Mar 21 – Apr 19)

If anyone needs to reassess their approach to relationship this week, it’s you, Aries. On Monday, Mercury will turn retrograde in the area of your chart that rules shared resources — physical and emotional. You might review how much you’re willing to share with your partner. Are you ready to have joint bank accounts, or is this out of your comfort zone? Have you allowed your mate to see you naked yet? Not physically but emotionally? From now until November 10 you’ll have an opportunity to decide whether you’ve been drawing healthy boundaries or using them as a barrier that prevents real intimacy.

Taurus Horoscope
Taurus Horoscope (Apr 20 – May 20)

This week it’ll become crystal clear that your relationship can use a bit of communication rehab. Mercury turns retrograde in your partnership sector on Monday, which will allow you to obtain closure regarding an unfinished conversation or previously unspoken words.  However, this will only happen once you’re willing to dig deep and talk about a sensitive topic. You might need to reassess a recent decision concerning your relationship. You and your significant other might also opt for third-party help, such as a counselor to open up dialogue you’re too anxious to communicate on your own.

Gemini Horoscope
Gemini Horoscope (May 21 – Jun 20)

When your ruler, Mercury, turns retrograde on Monday, it might be more of a challenge to communicate effectively. Now through November 10, it’ll be a good idea to review what you want to say in your mind before you express it — especially during conversations with a spouse or lover. Once you say something, even if it doesn’t come across as intended, you can’t take it back. While under normal circumstances it’s not difficult to correct a misunderstanding, when Mercury is retrograde this can sometimes turn into a monumental task.

Cancer Horoscope
Cancer Horoscope (June 21 – Jul 22)

Don’t be surprised if an old flame resurfaces this week. What might shock you, however, is that this blast from your past will likely reignite all sorts of feelings you thought you had safely buried and under control. Now, it’s possible that you’ll need to face them head-on in order to either grieve the loss of the relationship and obtain closure, or make a decision to give things another shot. In the end, only you know what’s truly best. Romantic idealism will run especially high on Friday.

Leo Horoscope
Leo Horoscope (Jul 23 – Aug 22)

If you feel as if you’ve lost your edge when it comes to expressing yourself, try not to be so hard on yourself. Mercury will turn retrograde on Monday, and in your case it’ll hit home — literally. If you live with your partner, it might be difficult to communicate effectively about a domestic matter or a decision to move. Hold off until after November 10. In the meantime, this weekend looks spectacular for romance. The Moon will be in your sign. Prepare to be swept off your feet!

Virgo Horoscope
Virgo Horoscope (Aug 23 – Sep 22)

When your ruling planet, Mercury, turns retrograde on Monday, you may feel at a disadvantage when it comes to expressing your ideas to others. You might experience a certain amount of frustration at your partner for what you feel is his or her lack of interest in listening to you. Try not to jump to conclusions and give your mate the benefit of the doubt. Remember, communication is nebulous for everyone now. Still, on Friday you might have a conversation that renews your faith in your relationship. Trust that it’s real and move forward together.

Libra Horoscope
Libra Horoscope (Sep 23 – Oct 22)

A series of missteps this week may lead to frustration in your love life. You may need to contend with your partner’s growing concern that the only thing you’re really married to is your career. Sure, there are fabulous opportunities happening for you these days and it would be foolish to ignore them. At the same time, however, remember there needs to be balance in life. Schedule a weekend of fun, without work-related distractions. The social reprieve will be good for your soul and your relationship.

Scorpio Horoscope
Scorpio Horoscope (Oct 23 – Nov 21)

This week, you’ll become extra mindful of the way you communicate. Mercury will turn retrograde in your sign on Monday, leading to more gaffes in your dialogue with your mate than usual until November 10. This will be the perfect time to carefully revise how you come across to your love. You might realize that you’ve been unwilling to share deeper, private thoughts out of self-protection. Perhaps it’s time to take a leap of faith and trust that it’s OK to share more of your inner self with your lover. On Friday, you just might be inspired to do exactly that.

Sagittarius Horoscope
Sagittarius Horoscope (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

You might appear less talkative to your mate this week. Reassure your sweetheart that it’s nothing he or she has done that has prompted you to become more introverted. The truth is, you may have so much swirling through your mind these days that you’re better off hashing thoughts out in private. Even so, be mindful that you don’t alienate your mate during this process. Thankfully, between Monday and Wednesday you’ll have an ability to emotionally connect to your partner without having to say a word.

Capricorn Horoscope
Capricorn Horoscope (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

If you’ve been second-guessing romantic feelings for a pal, things are likely to get more confusing this week. On Monday, Mercury will turn retrograde in your friendship sector, and it’s possible that you and a friend will finally speak about the elephant in the room — your attraction to one another. These conversations might initially be uncomfortable, but you both know they’re necessary. If attached, on Thursday and Friday you’ll enjoy an extra dose of harmony with your mate. The two of you might cozy up and enjoy the comforts of home together.

Aquarius Horoscope
Aquarius Horoscope (Jan 20 – Feb 18)

If your intimate life is interfering in the pursuit of your professional goals, this week you might need to reassess your priorities. It’s one thing if you’re in love with someone and ready to forge a relationship, but if you’ve been casually dating and flirting — especially with someone connected to your boss — this week you might pay a price for any lack of sound judgment. If attached, this weekend you and your mate might decide to take a weekend getaway. Enjoy the break together!

Pisces Horoscope
Pisces Horoscope (Feb 19 – Mar 20)

A change in the way you look at the world may lead to alterations you’ll feel are necessary in your relationship in order for it to grow. On Monday, Mercury will turn retrograde in the area of your chart that rules the higher mind. Reassessing your spiritual and moral beliefs may lead to the discovery that you and your mate are not on the same page regarding an issue that’s truly important to you. Will this be a deal breaker? Try not to make any snap decisions until after November 10.

8 Ways to Deal With Mercury Retrograde in Scorpio

8 Ways to Deal With Mercury Retrograde in Scorpio

We’ve already covered Mercury Retrograde, and last month we talked about Mercury in Libra, but what happens when that Mercury decides to slow down a little bit, and in Scorpio of all places? It is a cosmic alignment worth a serious discussion, as this is another aspect in our horoscope that has the potential to wreak havoc in our lives, or miracles. Mercury is about communications and words, and the zodiac sign we know and love as Scorpio is about digging to the truth, so you can imagine, when Mercury slows down or goes retrograde in Scorpio, a LOT of stuff is going to come to the surface that is going to be just plain difficult to deal with. Or awesome. The good news? You get to decide. You’re in the captain’s chair. Here’s your handy action plan for navigating this murky aspect step by awkward step.

What does this aspect mean?

Generally speaking, Mercury is the planet that deals with journeys, transportation, technology, contracts, intelligence, and legal matters, coming to an almost stop in the most secretive and intense signs of them all. It’s an aspect that is going to last in our horoscope for two months. Normally Mercury doesn’t last that long in the individual zodiac signs, but when it is retrograde, as we previously discussed, it slows down. So essentially speaking when you have the planet of chit chat retrograde in the under the surface mysterious zodiac sign you are going to have a lot of…awkward conversations. Some of them will be amazing. And some of them will be just that. Awkward. How are you going to deal with it?

Key Themes

The key themes of any astrological aspect are the themes that will manifest in your life almost whether you want them to or not. These are themes that you may not be used to, or they may be themes you are very comfortable with. We address them here because knowing what the themes of Mercury in Scorpio are ahead of time will help. When one of these crops up in your life, you can go “ah hah! Mercury is still retrograde in Scorpio.”

  1. Digging for clues and hidden info. Suddenly you will want to know everything about everyone. You will ask intense questions during conversations with new people, as they will with you.
  2. Being guarded. As much as you will want to know things, you will want to keep things private. This is true Scorpio style. She doesn’t let her secrets go but will stop at nothing to get yours.  You won’t be able to avoid putting up a few walls now. But don’t be afraid to tear them down, secrets you reveal during this period are going to bring you closer to someone.

You’ll notice the two key themes of this aspect are in direct opposition to each other.  That’s the cosmic punch of Mercury retrograde in Scorpio! So how are you going to deal with this slow planet in this intense zodiac sign?

Mercury Retrograde in Scorpio Checklist

  • Mark these dates: From shadow period to shadow period we have this period in effect from October 21 to November 27. These are the dates you can expect the most of this chit chat and guarded activity.
  • Another date to note is the November 3 Eclipse. Meditate, meditate, meditate, for enlightenment on some of those secrets you’ve been trying to uncover!
  • Make note of “re” themes in this retrograde: re-edit, re-write, re-evaluate, re-imagine, re-consider, re-cover, re-vamp. You will be re-peating a lot of words, communication, messages, and even experiences. You will also be “reliving” a lot, and see a lot from your past come up. Get used to it!
  • With Mercury in a Water Sign expect your messages and communications to come in a variety of forms, not all of them conventional. Keep your dream journal handy, and pay attention to every life experience, waking or otherwise.
  • Make a list of the mysteries in your life that need to be solved. Are you looking for a family member? Have health concerns that puzzle you? Wondering about a soul connection? You have the cosmic energy now to solve those mysteries. Make a list and then begin tackling them.
  • Watch for signs and synchronicities. Scorpio is a very intuitive zodiac sign and depends almost exclusively on signs and synchronicities or happy coincidences to rule their lives. These will be abundant during this period, especially if you ask your angels and guides to send them to you. These signs are the key holders to the secrets you are looking to uncover.
  • Don’t be surprised if someone from your past shows up out of the blue. Scorpio is about soul connections, and these could be romantic or otherwise. Always look fabulous before you leave the house if this kind of surprise delights you. If it doesn’t, have a fail-safe statement to provide to anyone that may re-enter your life at any moment in the most unwelcome way. “Great to see you, wish I could chat but I’m on the way to meet my awesomely wealthy and gorgeous fiance have a nice life.”  This is precisely how Scorpio would handle it, and so must you, whether you are doing precisely that, or sitting on the couch and wishing you were.
  • Come from a place of Yes. This is a period where the more positive you are in your communications, vis a vis Mercury, the more miracles you will produce in your emotional life, vis a vis Scorpio. Come from a place of Yes. Or, a place of openness and acceptance. Don’t be so quick to say no if you are usually in the no place. Say yes first, you just never know WHAT is possible. Scorpio says yes until she gets what she wants and doesn’t even hear the word no. Your mission if you choose to accept it is to embrace all of the potential that Scorpio does every day. Aren’t you lucky! Your romantic partners will be too!

Many people fear the Mercury retrograde period showing up in their horoscope, but this month we get a little gift from our Mercury retrograde as it enters Scorpio during its slowest movement. This is exciting for anyone that’s ever wanted to be a Scorpio! During this time you can create some true miracles in your life by harnessing that powerful Scorpio intensity and passion with the gift of communication as only Mercury can do. What secrets are you hoping to uncover during this time?

Astrology Answers