Category: Articles

Animals, Nature, and the Craft

Animals, Nature, and the Craft

Author:   Flame warped mind 

I love animals — not all of them mind you, little bugs, spiders, bees, and rodents still freak me — but I respect each for what they are. Respect. It’s a big part of being Pagan. Ants and spiders are just as important as cows and elephants, each being distinctly different from the next.

‘Witches only love their black cats! They sacrifice everything else to the Devil!’

Really? I don’t like cats at all, and I’ve never sacrificed anything to the devil. I’m just far too busy trying to gather what understanding I can from the animal kingdom to worry about sacrificing to a being I don’t believe exists. “What we have here is failure to communicate.” –Cool Hand Luke.

For as long people outside the Craft have known about any form of earth based spirituality and the people involved in such practice (whom we will refer to as Pagan for the remainder of this piece) , there have been misconceptions involving animals and the Craft. An animal spiritually tied to a person practicing witchcraft (often called a familiar) , was and still is often thought of as a demon in animal form sent to assist in spells against and bewitchment of the God-fearing public. This theory is both prejudicial and nonsensical, not just to the person but also to the animal involved as well. During the Witch Hunts, animals were routinely sentenced and executed for witchcraft along with their masters. This practice went so far that in medieval Europe cats were massacred based on the theory that all cats were Witches’ familiars.

Oftentimes people assume that all Pagans have cat familiars (as though it were a requirement) and while cats have been a part of Pagan society since before the Pyramids were built, they are not by any means spiritual requirements for practicing Pagans.

Another old (incorrect) theory, which has become common knowledge is that Pagans routinely sacrifice animals to appease the devil, a demon, or a god or goddess. The vast majority of Pagans love and respect animals as much, if not more so, than the average person because of an inherent desire to be close to nature. Some pagans forgo all meats in order to avoid the feeling of having caused the death of an animal. The confusion here lies in the difference between “animal sacrifice” and an animal that was hunted to be eaten. Sometimes a ritual item or personal belonging fulfills this function. Sometimes the sacrifice is the worshiper’s dinner. Ask a deity bound pagan, a bought offering is rarely as desirable as an offering strived for.

In my home we have several animals. If at any time animals are used in my practice, the cat is the absolute last choice for a spiritual partner I would seek out. For me, there is only one choice of animal to partner myself with spiritually, ball pythons. Don’t run away screaming just yet.

Snakes are amazingly beautiful creatures contrary to their poor reputation. Captive bred snakes are wonderful animals to work with. The temperament is different between wild (aggressive) to captive bred (calm) snakes. You can have an animal very close to its naturally occurring instinct, (usually) without the aggressive nature. I have three beautiful ball pythons all of which have been involved with some ritual or another. One of their biggest strengths in a ritual is how predicable they are. Dogs, cats, rodents, arachnids, lizards, all have a tendency to be unpredictable, and occasionally volatile. Dogs bark and fight. Cats don’t do what their pets (owners) tell them. Arachnids are entirely unpredictable and easily injured in my estimation. Lizards have a tendency to run away or get into obnoxious places when no ones looking. They’re all too impatient for my taste.

A snake will sit still until they smell food, get too cold/hot, or get curious enough to slowly wander off. They don’t make noise, and, for the most part, don’t resist where they are placed. Best of all, when there is an occasion where they get aggressive/defensive, the posturing and hissing gives those around ample warning as to the change in demeanor. If this occurs, it is normally during a very active part of the ritual; snakes don’t like things being moved past their heads quickly. (At this point most other species of animals are retired from the rites anyway.) Also as long as the surrounding temperature is amiable, they can be placed in a bag, which is then tied up, to prevent wandering and to bolster the animal’s sense of security. I’ll bet your dog wouldn’t let you do that!

When humans allow themselves to be as close to nature as animals, our instincts take over. Some of the most powerful and well-balanced magical workings I have ever witnessed involved Pagans reverting to base instinct. Powerful and pure, Nature is instinct. Nature is not always civilized and pleasant; oftentimes it is harsh, cruel, and gory. The more “civilized” humans become, the more we forget how powerful instinct can be. Animals are the epitome of instinct, and so it is wise to sit back, watch, and learn from the varying multitudes our scaly, slimy, furry, feathered, chitinous, brethren encompass. Even though their speech is limited to sounds that mean nothing to humans, they each have something to say. There is always something new to learn, an untapped facet of primal knowledge… if only we know where to look.

Some of the smallest animals often teach us the most valuable lessons. The ants learned long ago that to cooperate is to survive; infighting only leads to ruin. Salmon show that life is an uphill battle, but anything worth doing should receive our full effort. A snake could have easily inspired Theodore Roosevelt when he said, “speak softly, but carry a big stick.” These are but a few of the lessons that nature offers those willing to listen.

So sit back, shut up, watch and learn, and above all remember nature is “natural”. It’s not good or evil. It’s not right or wrong. It is spectacular and beautiful, bountiful, and calm and at the same time, nature is savage, bloody, vicious, and violent… a self-sustaining balance at its finest.

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Footnotes:
Cool Hand Luke
Theodore Roosevelt

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When Your Pet is More Than A Pet – Familiars and Avatars

When Your Pet is More Than A Pet – Familiars and Avatars

Author:   Bronwen Forbes   

As a prologue to this, you need to know that Herne has been my patron God since I was nine years old. You don’t need to know, but you’ll probably figure out by reading this (if you haven’t already) that sometimes I’m a little slow to notice the obvious.

A few months after adopting my red and white beagle mix Herman, I was trying to sleep in one Saturday morning when I began to idly wonder, “There are so many Goddesses with dogs as part of their symbolism. I wonder what Gods are associated with dogs, too?” And then it hit me like a two-by-four to the forehead. Herne, Lord of the Wild Hunt, is very much associated with dogs, especially red and white hunting dogs, than you very much. (I warned you I’m a little slow sometimes) .

Needless to say, sleep was no longer an option. I sat up and looked at Herman (who had spent the night, as he usually did, asnooze at my side) who was already staring at me with a definite, “took you long enough to figure it out” expression.

And just like that, I not only had a familiar, I had an avatar.

I’m defining “avatar” here not as a recent hit movie or a small picture that represents you on various blogs or discussion boards, but as the earthly representative of a deity. And for the love of me, I hadn’t a clue what to do with mine.

Four months later, we adopted a German Shepherd mix named Katie – and lo and behold, she was also what my husband likes to call a “God-touched” dog. But unlike Herman who was also my familiar (notice the past tense; I still miss him) , Katie let us know pretty quickly that she had no interest whatsoever in being my husband’s familiar, but would happily attend her Goddess Nehelennia’s tasks of safe travel, healing and commerce. Period.

Since acquiring Herman and Katie in 2001, I’ve alao gotten the clue what to do, not just for my special dogs, but for anyone else who may wake up one morning and see deity shining through the eyes of their pet.

First and foremost, and I know this sounds obvious, you have to keep treating your pet like a, well, pet. Your animal companion is your spiritual and or magickal support (familiar) or a little bit of deity (avatar) but he still needs proper food and water, adequate shelter, regular veterinary checkups, exercise, training, vaccinations, etc. After all, it’s not like the Gods can or will take care of your pet for you.

But once the regular, responsible pet ownership duties are taken care of with your familiar or avatar, there are still some things you need to think about to keep your relationship with your animal companion – and your deity – as smooth and fulfilling as possible.

1. Remember that, despite her spiritual role in your life, your pet is still going to act like an animal. Herman used to drive me crazy with this. He was a daily reminder of my relationship with my patron deity, helped me work through some serious ritual issues, was a whiz at helping new students ground and center simply by sitting in their laps during ritual – and he was also a master escape artist. He could climb or dig under any chain link fence, and did so on a pretty regular basis.

Katie, a born healer, is also a big dog and an unrepentant counter-surfer. I can’t begin to count how many times I packed my lunch, left the kitchen to get dressed for work, and came back to find my lunch bag and food containers in Katie’s crate and my ex-lunch in her stomach. She may be God-touched, but she’s still a dog!

2. Give your familiar and/or avatar full autonomy regarding ritual attendance. This includes personal workings, small group rituals, festivals, and rites of passage. Shortly after my Saturday morning revelation about Herman, my husband and I took him with us to visit my parents for the weekend. While we were there, I helped my parents bury the ashes of our old family cat in the side yard garden – an understandably emotional activity. Herman was in the back yard, separated from me by a picket fence. He could see me through the fence, but couldn’t get to me. As my father dug a hole for the ashes, Herman went nuts, for want of a better word. Instead of pursuing squirrels (his usual pastime in my parents’ backyard) , he was throwing himself against the fence and barking frantically, trying to get to me. I should have stepped over the fence, opened the gate, and allowed Herman to join the small ritual. After all, he only wanted to do his job.

There have also been instance and rituals where Herman or Katie did *not* want to attend a particular ritual, and we quickly learned to “listen” to their opinions – rather like knowing that it doesn’t feel right to take a certain tarot deck with you when you go do readings at a community event. We learned this lesson the hard way when we took Katie to a ritual she clearly didn’t want to go to and she had a seizure.

3. Give your pet enough down time. Just as you can’t be in ritual 24/7, it’s unrealistic to expect your pet to be “on, ” i.e. actively acting as a divine representative or helping you with your spiritual work all the time. Don’t bug him to help you if he clearly doesn’t feel like it – the fact that he’s asleep or ignoring you are clear signs that he “doesn’t feel like it.”

If you find yourself needing extra protein, water or sleep after a working or ritual, offer some to your familiar or avatar as well.

If you have a pet that also enhances your spiritual practice or connection with your deity, you have been given a gift beyond price. Very few animals, at least in my experience, can do this, and if you get one or even two in a lifetime, you have truly been blessed. It’s also not something you can actively look for; it’s like love (actually it *is* love) – the more you try to find that special animal, the less likely you are to succeed.

Be patient. If and when you’re ready, the right animal will come.

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Imbolc Incense

Imbolc Incense

3 parts Frankincense

2 parts Dragon’s Blood

1/2 part Red Sandalwood

1 part Cinnamon

a few drops Red Wine

To this mixture add a pinch of the first flower (dry it first) that is available in your area at the time of Imbolc (February 1st). Burn during Wiccan ceremonies on Imbolc, or simply to attune with the symbolic rebirth of the Sun — the fading of winter and the promise of Spring.

 

(The above recipe for Imbolc Incense is directly quoted from Scott Cunningham’s book: The Complete Book of Incense, Oils & Brews, page 72, Llewellyn Publications, 1992.)

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Symbolism of Imbolc

Symbolism of Imbolc

Imbolc can be symbolically represented by a dish of snow, evergreens and/or candles. Ritually, you may choose to light and hold candles (symbol of light) within the Circle. You may also want to place a wheel symbol upon the Altar. It is traditional upon Imbolc, at sunset or just after ritual, to light every lamp in the house — if only for a few moments. Or, light candles in each room in honor of the Sun’s rebirth. Alternately, light a kerosene lamp with a red chimney and place in a prominent part of the home or in a window. If snow lies on the ground, walk in it for a moment, recalling the warmth of Summer. With your projective hand, trace an image of the Sun on the snow. Other Pagan activities may include the gathering of stones and the searching for signs of Spring. It is considered taboo to cut or pick plants at this time.

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Invocation to Brid, Celtic Triple Goddess

Celtic & British Isles Graphics
Invocation to Brid, Celtic Triple Goddess

Brid, I call you.

Oh, Bright One! I call you.

Goddess of Fire, Healing, and Inspiration, Hear my cry.

Help me stand strong like the Rowan, that I may become your Brigand and rise up against the darkness.

Oh, Bright Arrow! Guide my judgment, protect me in my wanderings.

I will remember always—Brigantia

—-by Dettie Em Freefoot

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TO BE A WITCH

Witchy Comments
TO BE A WITCH

To be a witch is to love and be loved.
To be a witch is to know everything, and nothing at all.
To be a witch is to move amongst the stars while staying on earth.
To be a witch is to change the world around you, and yourself.
To be a witch is to share and give, while receiving all the while.
To be a witch is to dance and sing, and hold hands with the universe.
To be a witch is to honor the gods, and yourself.
To be a witch is to be magick, not just perform it.
To be a witch is to be honorable, or nothing at all.
To be a witch is to accept others who are not.
To be a witch is to know what you feel is right and good.
To be a witch is to harm none.
To be a witch is to know the ways of old.
To be a witch is to see beyond the barriers.
To be a witch is to follow the moon.
To be a witch is to be one with the gods.
To be a witch is to study and to learn.
To be a witch is to be the teacher and the student.
To be a witch is to acknowledge the truth.
To be a witch is to live with the earth, not just on it.

To be a witch is to be truly free!

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A Little Humor for Your Day – Benefits of Being a Woman

Benefits of Being a Woman

We got off the Titanic first.

We get to flirt with systems support men who always return our calls, and are nice to us when we blow up our computers.

Our boyfriend’s clothes make us look elfin & gorgeous. Guys look like complete idiots in ours.

We can be groupies. Male groupies are stalkers.

We can cry and get off speeding fines.

We’ve never lusted after a cartoon character or the central figure in a computer game.

Taxis stop for us.

Men die earlier, so we get to cash in on the life insurance.

We don’t look like a frog in a blender when dancing.

Free drinks, free dinners.

New lipstick gives us a whole new lease on life.

If we’re not making enough money we can blame the glass ceiling.

It’s possible to live our whole lives without ever taking a group shower.

No fashion faux pas we make could ever rival The Speedo.

We don’t have to fart to amuse ourselves.

If we forget to shave, no one has to know.

We can congratulate our teammate without ever touching her butt.

If we have a zit, we know how to conceal it.

We never have to reach down every so often to make sure our privates are still there.

If we’re dumb, some people will find it cute.

We don’t have to memorize Caddyshack or Fletch to fit in.

We have the ability to dress ourselves.

We can talk to people of the opposite sex without having to picture them naked.

If we marry someone 20 years younger, we’re aware that we look like an idiot.

There are times when chocolate really can solve all your problems.

We’ll never regret piercing our ears.

We can fully assess a person just by looking at their shoes.

We’ll never discover we’ve been duped by a Wonderbra.

We know which glass was ours by the lipstick mark.

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Quiz of the Day: Which Bird Will Help You Today?

Quiz: Which Bird Will Help You Today?

Birds can be powerful allies for becoming our truest selves or for simply  helping us to get through our busy and challenging days. Do you need the  sharp-eyed eagle, merry finch, or something else? Take the quiz and find out,  here:

Answer the following questions TRUE or FALSE.

1. I need the ability to wait patiently until the right time comes to  act.

2. I need to get a clear overview of my life right now; I’m too bogged down  in details to have perspective.

3. I feel like I’m operating in the dark and could really use some help  finding my way.

4. I need to feel more cheerful and optimistic.

5. I want my brain to feel sharp and flexible, making the best possible use  of what I know.

6. I want to feel more loving, gentle, and affectionate.

7. I need to feel that my territory is protected and safe.

8. I need help getting rid of outworn things in my life.

If you answered TRUE to:

1, then Crane will be helpful to you.

2, then Eagle is your guide.

3, then Owl is your ally.

4, then Finch will aid you.

5, then Crow is your helper.

6, then Dove will be your companion.

7, then Jay is your friend.

8, then Vulture is your guide.

You may want to put photos or other images of your bird where you can see it  and be reminded of its basic nature, which offers itself to you for help and  guidance. Be sure to put an offering of birdseed outside, if you can, as a  thank-you.

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Daily Feng Shui News for Jan. 29th – ‘Seeing Eye Dog Day’

I’m going to put a little twist on today’s ‘Seeing Eye Dog Day.’ If your dog loves to ride in the car with their head hanging out the window, from time to time you may notice that their eyes will get inflamed. Dampen a soft and lint free cloth and carefully clean out the dog’s eyes. Then place a drop of castor oil in each eye. Do this twice a day until the inflammation has gone away and the dog’s eyes are normal again. See, I told you — a new spin on ‘Seeing Eye’ dogs.

By Ellen Whitehurst for Astrology.com

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Your Charm for Wednesday, Jan. 29th is The Tet

Your Charm for Today

The Tet

Today’s Meaning:

This aspect is influenced by someone who finds you irresistible, yet they will say nothing of it.

General Description:  

The Tet, or Tat, amulet was most popular with the ancient Egyptians, among whom the power of charms was believed to be irresistible. They were worn to protect the human body, living and dead alike from evil influences, and from attacks of invisible and visible enemies. The Setting up of the Tet (the reconstruction of the body of Osiris the god of vegetation and everlasting life) was a religious ceremony, celebrated annually at Abydos, in Upper Egypt, and in the Delta at Bus iris. Worn as a talisman for protection from evil also for strength and stability.

Your Animal Spirit for January 29th is The Skunk

Your Animal Spirit for Today
January 29, 2014

Skunk

Phew! Everyone knows Skunk’s power—that’s why people (and other animals) get out of his way! If you’re lacking self-esteem, Skunk is there to help. You are worthy of a happy life—and if someone is making you miserable, look to Skunk as a confidence builder. Remember, though, Skunk doesn’t have to spray to be powerful—his reputation precedes him! And, like Skunk, you don’t need to spray either-but you do need to stand your ground calmly, and with Skunk’s confidence.

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Your Ancient Symbol Card for January 29th is Love

Your Ancient Symbol Card for Today

Love

Love indicates that love is either present in our life or a distinct possibility. Be open to all possibilities, remembering that true love is given freely, without condition, and does not have to be earned. This is the kind of love we want to welcome into our life and to give to others. Be open to new ideas, and beware of judging against someone in an unloving manner. When Love appears, return to the place where you can love yourself and then seek out the same love from others.

As a daily card, Love suggests that for those who are currently in a relationship the opportunity to deepen the bond is present. For those who are single, Love implies that the prospect for them to begin a romantic relationship is very strong at this time.

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Your Daily Tarot Card for January 29th – Strength

Strength

Wednesday, Jan 29th, 2014

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

What has traditionally been known as the Strength card represents Nature which, however wild in its primal form, is tamed by our subtler, finer (feminine, interior) self. The will and passion of our instinctive nature does not need to be broken, but refined and brought to consciousness — so that all levels of Creation, inner and outer, may come into harmony.

The feminine soul-force contains a persuasive power that can nurture and induce cooperation from others, stilling disruptive energies by harmonizing differences in the spirit of collective good will.

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Your Daily Horoscopes for Wednesday, Jan. 29th

We’re eager to break away from previous attachments as the progressive Aquarius Sun brilliantly sextiles shocking Uranus. We are so excited about the future that it’s challenging to maintain a balanced perspective today. Additionally, a Mercury-Jupiter alignment inflates the importance of our ideas. Although the reserved Capricorn Moon encourages caution, her shift into unconventional Aquarius at 11:33 pm EST reminds us that anything is possible.

Aries Horoscope

(Mar 21 – Apr 19)

It seems as if extra effort in the workplace should pay off, but lingering resistance might impede your progress. You may be harboring resentment about your responsibilities, but resisting the inevitable now is not going to land you anywhere but in trouble. Use your intellect and convert your anger into production, regardless of your feelings. You’ll soon look back on today with pride in your persistence and a sense of accomplishment.

Taurus Horoscope

(Apr 20 – May 20)

Your anticipation is spreading like a field of dandelions on a fertile spring lawn. Unfortunately, it might not feel like you have any way of gaining control over the situation unless you take an extreme approach and bury your emotions as deeply as you can. However, denial is not a good idea because your thoughts will pop up again faster than you expect. Don’t try to suppress your temporary anxiety. Instead, go to the source of the problem and make changes where they can take root.

Gemini Horoscope

(May 21 – Jun 20)

You might want to hold back your original ideas now because you believe that others aren’t playing with the right attitude. You can sense that something is wrong, but there’s not much you can do about it except honor your own end of the deal. Don’t give anyone a reason to question your motives. Smile and whistle while you work. Let your deeds speak volumes for you today and steer clear of any unnecessary drama.

Cancer Horoscope

(Jun 21 – Jul 22)

You bring a fresh perspective to your job today, and your unorthodox approach may untangle a difficult situation that has been bothering you for a while. Don’t be afraid to take a calculated risk now, since you have a healthy balance between your intuition and your common sense. There might not be a better day than this one to initiate the exciting changes you’ve been dreaming about. Make your move while the window of opportunity is still wide open.

Leo Horoscope

(Jul 23 – Aug 22)

You think that you can relax a bit now and maybe even play hooky, but your responsibilities might not give you this kind of latitude. There’s just too much on your plate today and you’re going to need to do your part at work before you sneak off to enjoy some free time. It’s difficult to juggle everything, but you can keep the most important projects in motion if you simply prioritize your tasks.

Virgo Horoscope

(Aug 23 – Sep 22)

If you have taken care of business over the last few weeks, you may be counting your lucky stars today. On the other hand, everything might fall apart if you have been slacking off from your responsibilities. Even if there’s no quick fix for what you should have already done, you still could have a trick or two up your sleeve. Don’t wait for a better time; this is as good a moment as any to make some magic.

Libra Horoscope

(Sep 23 – Oct 22)

Whether it is your lack of self-esteem that holds you back or growing responsibilities that keep you from fulfilling your promises, you could feel caught in a net with no easy escape route. Your mind is running incessantly as you try to find a way out of the predicament, but your own wheels keep getting in the way. Don’t struggle so hard and the solution may come to you in a sudden flash of inspiration.

Scorpio Horoscope

(Oct 23 – Nov 21)

You have a gnawing urge to spill the beans today. Although you may think that sharing everything is a good idea, it could be problematic if you’re not willing to deal with the consequences of your disclosure. Currently, exercising discretion serves you better than uncensored impulsive outbursts. There’s no need to tell tall tales; it’s probably wiser to leave some of the details out of the story for now.

Sagittarius Horoscope

(Nov 22 – Dec 21)

You could run into a minor financial setback today, but it might ultimately work out to your advantage in the long run. It may be as small as being overcharged a few cents at the market. But it can be more significant, like finding yourself short of cash with others relying on you to cover the tab. Pay close attention to all monetary transactions now, regardless of how this energy plays out in your life. Taking time to reassess your resources is never a bad idea.

Capricorn Horoscope

(Dec 22 – Jan 19)

You’re experiencing agitation because you don’t want to deal with your emotions, but you must face the music now that the reflective Moon is rattling your 1st House of Self. Your first inclination might be to take your current desire to rebel out on someone else who doesn’t deserve it. Even if being radically honest seems like the right thing to do today, don’t do it. Assuming full responsibility for your feelings is your best bet. Being honest from the start is much simpler than dealing with the resistance you will receive if you shift the blame to others.

Aquarius Horoscope

(Jan 20 – Feb 18)

You’re feeling the temptation to quit fighting for your beliefs today. You’re tired of all the drama and can’t help but dream of running away. However, it’s smarter to call on your inner strength and listen to your intuition instead. Remember, the largest obstacle facing you now is your own self-doubt. Unfortunately, enemies seem real, even if they are just windmills spinning in the breeze. Change your outer world by changing your attitude first. Lasting transformation starts from within.

Pisces Horoscope

(Feb 19 – Mar 20)

Knowing when to quit isn’t an easy task for you big-hearted Pisces. Although you can be fiercely loyal to a cause, you’re not one to go down fighting a losing battle today. However, you still might have trouble letting go at the last moment. The smallest glimmer of hope leads you into believing the clouds will clear and the sun will shine. It may not be as clean a victory as you want, but you could still surprise everyone with your brilliant tactics. Your unwavering faith stirs up a powerful magic of its own.

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New Moon in Aquarius Horoscopes

New Moon in Aquarius Horoscopes

Brilliance strikes during January’s late New Moon

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

Innovation is off charts with the New Moon in unconventional Aquarius on January 30, 2014. This Sun-Moon conjunction in this super smart sign is excellent for expanding perception and triggering bright ideas. Idealism and a stronger sense of community can also emerge in the days that follow. Aquarius’ ingenious ruling planet, Uranus, favorably aligns with this lunation as well, making our mental laboratories more productive.

Aries (March 21 – April 19)

Discovering ways to become a more effective member of a team is a potential gift of this intellectually energizing New Moon. It lands in your 11th House of Groups, where you can get a fresh start within an organization or find a place of inspiration supporting a cause. Idealism is strong in Aquarius, which can help you recognize ways to meet your own needs while being an even more valuable friend or colleague.

Taurus (April 20 – May 20)

Get ready for some radically new experiences in your professional life. This brainy and innovative Aquarius New Moon lands in your 10th House of Career and Public Responsibility to spark a fresh start that challenges your usual ways of doing business. Be as open-minded and flexible as you can, because old rules and systems may start breaking down. Innovation and risk-taking should put you in a more exciting work situation.

Gemini (May 21 – June 20)

Travel and mind expansion are on the agenda with this brilliant Aquarius New Moon in your 9th House of Faraway Places and Higher Education. Your busy brain may suddenly turn in a different direction as you’re stimulated by a radically new idea. Sharing your discoveries, going back to school, or doing business with people in distant places are ways to put more excitement and meaning into your life.

Cancer (June 21 – July 22)

This quirky Aquarius New Moon lands in your 8th House of Deep Sharing, where it can have a significant influence on your personal and professional relationships. A lunation in your 8th house, associated with emotional intimacy and financial alliances, is about making choices in partnerships. Either you come up with a fresh approach that enriches connections, or fight change and settle for less.

Leo (July 23 – Aug. 22)

Fresh connections can enliven your personal life with this exciting New Moon in your 7th House of Partners. Sure, you may attract unusual individuals who don’t always follow the standard rules of love and business. But it’s also an opportunity for you to enliven current alliances with original thinking, or to take some chances by sharing brilliant insights that impress others with your original thinking.

Virgo (Aug. 23 – Sept. 22)

Surprises could shake up your daily routine with this rebellious Aquarius New Moon in your 6th House of Employment and Habits. Although adapting to unexpected circumstances is logical, it’s even better if you take the initiative to make changes. Going into a different profession, getting additional training, and altering the ways that you deal with diet, exercise, and health will work to your advantage.

Libra (Sept. 23 – Oct. 22)

Creativity and romance get significant shots of adrenalin from this electrifying New Moon in your 5th House of Self-Expression. Let your playful side show as this lunation is a signal to come up with fresh ways to get attention and to have fun. Experimenting with different approaches and looks will put more pleasure into your personal life and make your professional presentations entertaining and inspiring to others.

Scorpio (Oct. 23 – Nov. 21)

This liberating Aquarius New Moon occurs in your 4th House of Roots to provide you with a fresh perspective on your past. Old issues, especially from your family, can be seen with distance and objectivity that allow you to let go of emotional issues that have been holding you back. You’re becoming free of unconscious conditioning, making this an excellent time to break habits and try different ways feel safe.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22 – Dec. 21)

Ideas are firing up with greater frequency thanks to this inventive Aquarius New Moon. It lands in your 3rd House of Information and Communication, cooking up fresh concepts and connections. Learning, teaching and meeting people should be more stimulating than usual. Just remember to ground what you say in a way that others can understand, because your enthusiasm may overwhelm others with more input than they can handle.

Capricorn (Dec. 22 – Jan. 19)

This inventive Aquarius New Moon occurs in your 2nd House of Resources, providing you with inspiration for making money and getting the most out of your assets. But instead of trying to squeeze more from your current abilities, this lunation signals the need to invest in developing different kinds of skills. Consistency is usually rewarding, but being innovative will lead to even more profitable ways to work now.

Aquarius (Jan. 20 – Feb. 18)

Are you ready for a fresh start? This exciting New Moon in your sign can light the fuse of change that you’ve been waiting for. Your innovative ruling planet Uranus makes a harmonious angle to this Sun-Moon conjunction in your sign, firing you up with originality. Trying a different look or coming up with a radically new approach to connecting with people are excellent ways to utilize this energy.

Pisces (Feb. 19 – March 20)

This ingenious Aquarius New Moon occurs in your 12th House of Spirituality to spur awareness of your connections with nature and divinity. Taking more time to be alone provides the peace and quiet needed to tap into the higher knowledge coming to you now. Don’t worry if it’s harder to get others’ attention, because the greatest rewards are more likely to come when you are less concerned with how others see you.

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