Striking Gold in Your Birth Chart

Astrology’s degrees and minutes are worth their weight

Have you ever looked at your horoscope and wondered what all those funny degrees and minutes are all about? Well, you’re not alone!

One of the most confusing things about studying Astrology initially is getting a grasp on the mechanics behind a birth chart. In fact, before you read the rest of this article, look at your own birth chart so you can see what we’re talking about as we break it down into degrees and minutes.

Math phobics out there tend to see the degree circle and minute sign and break out into a sweat. No worries — you can relax: This is NOT advanced Calculus. In fact, after reading this short primer you’ll know exactly what you’re looking at in terms of degrees and minutes, no matter whose birth chart you’ve got in your hands.

Let’s start with decans

Let’s begin with an explanation of how many degrees fill the horoscope wheel. We all know that there are 12 signs in the zodiac, but what you may not have known is that each sign is comprised of 30 degrees. Each zodiac sign will have three sets of decans contained within it — and these decans all equal up to 30 degrees.

The first decan of any sign goes from 0 degrees to 9 degrees, 59 minutes and 59 seconds. The second decan goes from 10 degrees to 19 degrees, 59 minutes and 59 seconds. The third decan goes from 20 degrees to 29 degrees, 59 minutes and 59 seconds. This is true no matter which sign you’re looking at. Also note, there are 60 minutes in every degree, but we don’t use 60 minutes as a marker. Rather we go from 0 (and this is the 1st minute) to 59 minutes (which is really the 60th minute).

When you multiply 12 by 30 you get the magical number of 360. No matter whose horoscope you have in your hand, you can rest assured there are 360 degrees contained in it. No exceptions!

A fascinating parallel to these 360 degrees is that they represent one 24-hour day. Therefore, a birth chart in its entirety will represent the motion of one 24-hour day here on Earth.

When you look further into the 30 degrees contained in each sign, there’s even more interesting significance. Certain degrees are believed to hold greater meaning in a birth chart than others. These degrees are commonly referred to as Critical degrees.

For the Cardinal signs (Aries, Cancer, Libra and Capricorn), the critical degrees are 0, 13 and 26. For the Fixed signs (Taurus, Leo, Scorpio, Aquarius), they are 8-9 degrees and 21-22 degrees. For the Mutable signs (Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius, Pisces), they are 4 and 17 degrees. Do you have a planet or sensitive angle in your chart at any of these degrees? If so, you can expect more of a focus in that area of your life.

Working with anaretic degrees

Furthermore, 0 degrees of any sign is considered a critical degree due to the karmic nature of being at the beginning of the sign. It is said that whatever planet or point is at 0 degrees will be in the early stages of learning lessons related to that point. Conversely, if a planet or point is at 29 degrees of any sign it is called an Anaretic Degree, and it symbolizes karmic completion related to that planet or points energy.

It is possible that if a person has a birth chart with many planets or angles at the Anaretic Degree he or she is a very old soul. There may be a sense of urgency or need to finish up something related to that planet or points energies as well.

So, what happens if a planet is at 29 degrees and 59 minutes? We saw this example recently with the much anticipated birth of the royal baby. He was born when the Sun was at the tail end of Cancer — 29 degrees and 59 minutes. If he was born just a short time later, the Sun would have ingressed into 0 degrees Leo.

Cancer and Leo are very different energies! This is why knowing the degrees and minutes together of a planet or point is so vital. It helps us determine where a planet or point truly is astrologically. A planet at 29 degrees 59 minutes of any sign is still in that particular sign. Not to mention at a critical degree.

Your Daily Horoscope for Tuesday, December 11

By Kelli Fox

Aries

March 21- April 19

This is a day to challenge yourself and explore undiscovered frontiers. This should be easy, since you’re generally fearless in the face of new ideas or experiences. You could discover a humanitarian streak you didn’t realise you had, as you throw yourself into projects. Global concerns seem especially important and poignant now. You genuinely want to make a difference. With your energy, that shouldn’t be difficult at all.

Taurus

April 20-May 20

Your loved ones may seem emotionally unavailable today. Or they might be literally unavailable, off on some solo adventure or neck-deep in a project. And where does that leave you? Lonely, maybe. But there’s no reason you can’t get wrapped up in your own pursuits. Just remember to come up for air sometime. With your legendary work ethic, it’s easy to focus on a project and end up feeling isolated.

Gemini

May 21-June 21

A flash of insight could lead you down a brand-new path today, either literally or figuratively. You’re exploring interesting intellectual territory, that much is certain. And following your mental impulses is best now, because it feeds your creativity. At the end of the day, you might have come up with a whole new philosophy, or at least a clever solution to an old issue. Innovative thinking leads to groundbreaking moves.

Cancer

June 22-July 22

You might feel moody today, and it could be hard to find a close friend to help you talk it through. Having to bottle everything up inside only makes your feelings more intense. But your focus is strong now, so losing yourself in work is a good idea until you’re able to get your feelings off your chest. Then, it’s time to chat, text or phone that friend of yours.

Leo

July 23-August 22

You want to stand out from the crowd as the unique, original person that you are. Flamboyant acts certainly have their time and place, but today might not be it. Dramatic behaviour doesn’t come across well now. And what’s wrong with blending in with the group? It’s perfectly natural to want to be special. But today might go more smoothly if you resolve yourself to being a part of the whole.

Virgo

August 23-September 22

You’re naturally a bit shy, and today you’re especially reserved. Making a warm, easy connection with someone may have to wait a few days, but that’s okay. You can use this brief period for solitary pursuits. Your thinking is as clear as ever, and sticky, tricky emotions won’t cloud your logic. In fact, you might err on the side of being unsympathetic — another reason to spend time with your own thoughts.

Libra

September 23-October 22

You’ve always been a people-person, and today your interest in your fellow humans is even higher than usual. Coworkers, friends and even perfect strangers are intriguing. Expect a day of conversation and spontaneous ideas. Brainstorming is a great activity now, since your creativity and intellect combine with others’ to great effect. Your inner genius is shining out for all to see. Some might even say you’re brilliant!

Scorpio

October 23 – November 22

You’re private by nature, but you’re also a people person. You need warm, emotional contact with the people you love and trust. If your best friend or sweetheart seems emotionally unavailable today, don’t take it personally. This is one of those days when most people are busy with their own thoughts and projects. If you feel lonely or isolated, seek out a group, or concentrate on enjoying your own company.

Sagittarius

November 23-December 20

You have no trouble with big, far-reaching ideas and abstract concepts today. You’re in the perfect mood and mindset for adventurous philosophies. Do some reading up on a subject that’s unfamiliar to you, or brainstorm with a group of friends or coworkers. You can create some exciting energy by making mental connections and tossing out theories as they come to you. This is true creativity at work, Sagittarius.

Capricorn

December 21-January 19

A bout of creative thinking makes you seem unconventional in other people’s eyes today. Isn’t it fun to keep your friends or coworkers on their toes? Just when they think they’ve got you all figured out, you throw them a curve ball. And there’s definitely a method to your madness, as everyone will soon see. For now, don’t worry about what others think. Work solo, if you have to. Just keep chasing down these brilliant ideas.

Aquarius

January 20-February 18

You like to keep people guessing, and today is good for making plans that will do just that. And yes — though it may seem contradictory, you can chart out unpredictable courses! No one knows better than you that a bit of forethought goes a long way toward following a truly unique path. Today, consider the next four weeks. Set some goals you can reach within that period of time. Aim high, Aquarius!

Pisces

February 19-March 20

Being a part of a crowd holds great appeal today. You want to work side by side with other people, toward the same ideal. If you can look up to a visionary leader, so much the better. The stronger your sense of belief in what you’re doing, the more energy you can muster. Just be sure to rest up at the end of the day. Such energy could be overwhelming!

Published on The Sydney Herald

Your Daily Horoscope for Monday, December 10

By Kelli Fox

Aries

March 21- April 19

Annoying twinges of insecurity have made you more self-focused than usual. Still, why the indifference to everything that’s going on around you? Just because you’re worried about the state of your own life doesn’t mean you should neglect your friends, family or colleagues. People depend on you for your energy and fiery motivation. So focus on building community today. That’s how you’ll gather your strength.

Taurus

April 20-May 20

Time and again, you’ve proven yourself to be a true-blue friend or partner. At this point, everyone knows you’re a force to be reckoned with. When it comes to choosing sides you’re motivated by loyalty. You have no problem committing yourself to a person or project you believe in. This sort of dedication inspires the same in the people around you. Today, you’re sure to benefit directly from someone’s desire to prove that they’re worthy of your devotion.

Gemini

May 21-June 21

Someone’s getting on your nerves today, and you’re tempted to let them know what you think of them. But resist that urge. Don’t treat anyone disrespectfully now, no matter how much you think they deserve it. Losing your temper will just lead to hurt feelings. Do your best to rise above, and make peace with other people as well as with yourself. You’ll feel better simply for proving to yourself that you can do this.

Cancer

June 22-July 22

There’s a good chance you’re imposing your own point of view on your partner today. You might think you see their side of things, but you’re just seeing what you want to see — which helps no one. Whatever you’re pushing for, try setting it on the back burner for now, so you can make a sincere effort to connect with your partner’s true needs or feelings. This shouldn’t be too difficult, since you’re empathetic and connected.

Leo

July 23-August 22

A silly, restless mood overtakes you. It’s fun to goof off, but your boss may not have a sense of humour about it. Of course, if you’re expecting a better offer, you probably don’t care how you come across to higher-ups, and you can do what you like. But if you care about your work and would prefer to maintain positive connections with your colleagues, you’d better shape up soon. Show them you can buckle down and get serious.

Virgo

August 23-September 22

Even if you’ve made a few mistakes, no one minds. Being human means being at least a little bit flawed. And for all practical purposes, your record is spotless. This means you’ve earned the right to speak with authority in any situation that comes up today. Other people respect you because you play fair, and treat them justly. Put this to work for you. Now is a wonderful time for building alliances.

Libra

September 23-October 22

Today, feelings of impatience are building to a crescendo. If you don’t do something to remedy this tension, soon you’ll be more fretful than a stringed instrument. So why not play a relaxing tune and calm down? You don’t have to give in to your anxieties, you know. Remind yourself that these are just feelings, and not necessarily reflections of reality. Maybe that will help you acknowledge them and then dismiss them in short order.

Scorpio

October 23 – November 22

Mere competence isn’t enough anymore. You want to shine — to display the true genius that lives within you so that the whole world can see what you’re capable of. Well, guess what? Your mind and heart are very closely connected today, and new, worthier goals will crop up as you examine your life and your desires. Be sure to aim high as you choose a brand-new, true-blue direction for yourself. You deserve the best, you know.

Sagittarius

November 23-December 20

Today you’re in a restless mood, because you know you have to keep moving forward at a steady, measured pace. You’d prefer to surge ahead, and make this thing you’ve dreamed up a sudden and spectacular reality — but that’s not how life works. Not when it comes to important projects and labours of love. So try not to let all this organising and planning get to you. It’s an important step in realising this dream of yours.

Capricorn

December 21-January 19

You’re used to being disciplined about your work and pushing toward your goals, but now that careful approach gives way to the power of raw wisdom. Your instincts are humming and you’re drawing on your vast experience to make decisions. Since when did you become so daring? Since you woke up today! Give this newfound energy free rein, but do balance it with some restraint. Don’t worry, you’ll have a whole month to get this right.

Aquarius

January 20-February 18

You’ve always been good at broadening your mind and taking a fair, honest look at points of view that differ from your own. Today you’re in need of some perspective, because you’re currently a bit unclear on where to take your work. So open yourself up to ideas and suggestions that you haven’t yet considered — including ones that make you uncomfortable. You just might discover an unexpected pearl of wisdom.

Pisces

February 19-March 20

Impressions come fast and strong today, and they’re rooted in sharp, grounded awareness which lends them even more truth. So stay alert to them! You’ll tune in to something — an idea, a feeling, a frequency — that could end up taking you far in a relationship with a good friend or in your career. Write down any ideas, no matter how vague they might seem; you’ll build on them later. Most of all, follow your instincts!

Something in your emotional world or within a love relationship could require you to think or react swiftly. Your biggest challenge might surround not reacting too emotionally or dramatically toward what arises. Try to see a romantic or relationship situation for what it is. It’s by applying a calm, practical solution that you can ensure an issue doesn’t escalate into something unnecessarily bigger.

Aquarius Daily Love Horoscope

Monday 10th of December 2018

You could feel challenged to express your most passionate emotions to a certain person, now or shortly. Being subtle just won’t cut it now, especially if a softly-softly or hands-off approach didn’t bring the results you’d hoped for. The object of your affections might not be as intuitively tuned in as you are, so speak from the heart in a very deliberate, unsubtle way. Laying all cards on the proverbial table might be the only way to go.

Aquarius tomorrow love horoscope:

Tuesday 11th of December 2018

The Moon’s influence in your sign could rock an equilibrium between you and someone close. With emotions running that little bit higher, you could feel tempted to take one commitment to a new level. At the same time, you could feel enhanced emotions offer a chance to convey yourself more openly and hang the consequences. If traditional or ‘the usual’ ways of conveying yourself don’t appeal to you, then you could have a brainwave regarding a new and more unusual way of doing so!

Daily Cosmic Calendar for December 10 & December 11

Daily Cosmic Calendar for Monday, December 10

Long-term readers of this calendar know that every so often the cosmos ceases its usual relentless bombarding of Planet Earth. That’s the scene right now as the recent celestial provocations temporarily dissipate in favor of mostly encouraging lunar aspects. The moon parallel power-of-positive-thinking Jupiter (7:05am) is the initial success-booster followed by supportive, 60-degree constructive link-ups from the lunar orb in Capricorn to wounded-healer Chiron in Pisces (11:26am) and now a little speedier-in-forward-motion Mercury in Scorpio (12:39pm). Complete odds and ends in a good mood during a void lunar cycle that starts at 1:28pm and ends 2 hours later when the moon enters airy Aquarius (3:41pm). Group projects, team sports, community fundraising drives, and global causes close to your heart and philosophy of life are strengthened with the moon transiting the eleventh sign of the zodiac. Tune into major investment plans as Monday night morphs into Tuesday morning in sync with the moon making its monthly union with Vesta (forming exactly at 12:45am tomorrow).

[Note to readers: All times are calculated as 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.]

Astrology.com

Daily Cosmic Calendar for December 11

Following the important monthly lunar conjunction with Vesta in Aquarius (12:45am) — energizing investment planning as well as safety-security matters, insurance rates and coverage, and soul-sister ties — the cosmos reverts to the disagreeable nature it had for the first eight days of this month. Mercury makes an adjustment-requiring, 150-degree liaison with outside-the-box rebel-leader Uranus (3:39am) while the sun forms a tension-generating, 45-degree tie to Vesta (11:22am) and Ceres confounds Chiron via their connection of 135-degrees (1:29pm). Ambiguity and irritability are temporarily in the driver’s seat even though the moon attempts to make things right by contacting benevolent Jupiter in a constructive, 60-degree alliance (6:35am).

[Note to readers: All times are calculated as 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.]

Astrology.com

Calendar of the Moon for December 10 & December 11

Calendar of the Moon
10 Ruis/Poseideion

(Note: These next five rituals are meant to be performed one after the other, on five consecutive days. Since this is the month that is often cut short, this rite will not be done every year. The House should check the year’s calendar and see if all five days are included in the year; if not, do not do any of these rites, and save them instead for another year. Do not start this cycle only to stop in the middle, for that would be terribly bad luck. Instead, continue with more of the Elder Tree Month invocation days until the Solstice.)

Day of the Underworld I

Color: Grey
Elements: All
Altar: Upon a ragged grey cloth set a vase of dried thistles, some oil of rue, a chalice of water and vinegar, and a box of remembrances from dead people.
Offering: Whatever the Gods tell you.
Daily Meal: Fasting tonight, until the next morning.

Underworld Ritual I

East Caller: Spirits of the East, Powers of Air!
We invoke you as the chill winds that blow
Ashes into our eyes,
Dust into our throats,
And cold into our bones.
Strip us clean, winds of winter!
Leave us bare of illusions
And empty of thought.
South Caller: Spirits of the South, Powers of Fire!
We invoke you as the funeral pyre,
Burning away all the trappings of life,
Blackening what is bright,
Destroying what is ephemeral,
As we are all ephemeral.
Burn us clean, fire of transformation!
Leave us clean grey ash in the air.
West Caller: Spirits of the West, Powers of Water!
We invoke you as the salt tears that fall
As we mourn the passing of all things.
For all things run down the river of time
And we do not see them again.
Wash us clean, tears of mourning!
Leave us foam on the waters
That slowly ebbs to nothing.
North Caller: Spirits of the North, Powers of Earth!
We invoke you as the cold earth of the grave,
Frozen around us,
Pressing us down into the depths,
Blotting out all air into stillness.
For we must learn the peace of the tomb
If we are to truly understand the joy of Spring.
Leave us to rot under the Earth
Until it there is nothing left of us.

Underworld Invocation I:

Now the Sun is overwhelmed,
And we are left alone to die
With all the faded trees,
The wasted flowers,
And so we also fade and waste –
Our birth, our youth, our prime,
Our proud excess, our cosmic fall:
Now ended all, and we are left with the mean prize
Of poverty and dull decline,
To fill the silence between the ticks of time.
Whither fled our strength
And our ascending leaves?
Whither fled our laughter
And our foolish golden bells?
Where now stand those scaffoldings of fire,
Those limbs of light wherein we played?
All are now pulled down,
Our lean possessions shrunk
To fill a little box,
And all our senses, our delights,
Turned pale and leached of taste,
Paled to a scentless draught that rusts the heart
To a mere foolish ticking clock.

(All should be silent for the space of ten heartbeats, and then the following chant is started in a whisper:)
Chant: The brain must break,
The bone must crack,
The blood must clot,
The heart must stop,
The flesh must rot.
(The chant is repeated until it dies away, and then the chalice is passed in silence. Each takes a single sip, and then it is placed back on the table. Leave in silence, with heads bowed.)

[Pagan Book of Hours]

Calendar of the Moon
11 Ruis/Poseideion

Day of the Underworld II

Color: Grey
Element: Earth
Altar: The altar should be the same as the night before, with the vinegar water replenished if necessary. Something made of rotting flesh should be placed on the altar, for scent.
Offerings: Whatever the Gods tell you.
Daily Meal: Fasting tonight, until the next morning.

Underworld Invocation II

We are the stricken, dying with death,
Shrouded with weeds, wrapped in our loss,
Silent we wait, clouded by tears,
Torn by the wind, ragged with mist.
Where we are wounded
There is no healing.
Where we decay
Nothing is sound.
Ravaged by night, abandoned by day,
Silent we wait, shadows of grey.
Old in our broken houses of flesh,
Old among ruined pillars of Sun,
Old as the halls to which we descend,
Old as this dark that does not end.
Call: Tonight we go under the ground.
Response: Tonight we are as corpses in the Earth.
Call: On this night, and the next, and the next, we are dead.
Response: On this night, we feel our bodies as they rot.
Call: On this night, we praise the worms and the beetles.
Response: On this night, we learn about the grave.
Call: On this night, we learn that Earth is silence.
Response: On this night, we learn that Earth welcomes us home.
Call: Receive us, Guardians of the Gate!
Response: Receive us, Lords of Death!

(All kneel before the altar for a long time, meditating on rot and decay. The chalice is passed, and all take a sip. Then all rise and leave in silence. That night, each should place under their pillow some dried weeds, or a handful of earth from a graveyard, for a reminder.)

[Pagan Book of Hours]

Calendar of the Sun for December 10 & December 11

Calendar of the Sun
10 Yulmonath

Sedna’s Day

Colors: Blue, green, white
Element: Water
Altar: Upon cloth like the Arctic Ocean place a long net, many tangled skeins of thread, combs, and the figures of seals and walrus and fish.
Offerings: Comb the skeins and weave them into the net for Sedna.
Daily Meal: Fish.

Invocation to Sedna

Far to the North, in the coldest of waters,
Where the hunters survive by fish and seal,
A poor fisherman had too many children,
And his oldest daughter refused to wed.
So he bore her out into the cold waters,
And threw her overboard to her death.
Yet she clung to the boat, he cut off her fingers,
They fell into the water and became the seals and fish.
She sank to the bottom, where she became Sedna,
Queen of the Northern Oceans, Mistress of the Water,
With hair so long that it wraps through all the waves
Yet she cannot comb it, without fingers. So it is
That when Sedna becomes wroth, the waves pitch
And toss about, and there is no food,
For it is all caught in her hair. Shall we then take up combs,
And do the work of the angakok, on this one day?
Shall we honor Sedna, Lady of the Sea,
Victim turned Ruler, lost child become Queen,
And give her aid in her extremity, that the seals and fishes
May be many in the waters? Come forth, those who would
Comb out her hair, and with it your troubles,
Your conundrums, and all that is tangled in your life.

(Each comes forth and takes a tangled skein of thread and a comb, and sits before the altar to comb it out. As each finishes, they say, “Be well, Lady,” and weave the straight skein into the net. Those who cannot untangle theirs before the bell of Akte must leave it, and say, “I will take up this burden next year, Lady,” and give extra libation to Sedna in private, on their own.)

[Pagan Book of Hours]

Calendar of the Sun
11 Yulmonath

Day of the Snow Queen

Color: White
Element: Air
Altar: Upon cloth of snowy white place many snowflakes, silver branches, a cup of clear alcohol in which has been placed a piece of dry ice to give off mist, and a knife of glass.
Offerings: Spend time in the cold, enduring her kiss.
Daily Meal: Frozen dishes.

Invocation to the Snow Queen

Hail to the Snow Queen, Lady Winter!
Hail to the cloak of white across the fields,
The treacherous ice on the road
That threatens us as we ride,
Creator of beauty on every window,
Sharp icicle that falls with lethal force,
Crystal of fairness that reflects the Sun tenfold,
Bitter winds of death that freeze the body
And free the soul to ride the circling blizzard,
We hail you, Heart of Ice, in this your season!
For you are the cutting edge of survival,
The one who tests us, and our skill.
When we fail to learn the lesson
Of the King of Frost, your consort,
We are left to your tender mercies
And gathered to your deathly white bosom.
Have mercy on us, Lady of the Snow!
Teach us that we must band together for warmth,
And teach us with a lesson less than fatal.

(One comes forth with the chalice of steaming alcohol, and another with the glass knife. The knife is dipped into the iced drink, and touched to the palms of each who will hold theirs out. Then the alcohol is poured out as a libation.)

Song: Snow Queen

[Pagan Book of Hours]

I Am A Witch

The Coming of Yule

The winter solstice is celebrated by many people around the world as the beginning of the return of the sun, and darkness turning into light. The Talmud recognizes the winter solstice as “Tekufat Tevet.” In China, the Dongzhi Festival is celebrated on the Winter Solstice by families getting together and eating special festive food.

Until the 16th century, the winter months were a time of famine in northern Europe. Most cattle were slaughtered so that they wouldn’t have to be fed during the winter, making the solstice a time when fresh meat was plentiful. Most celebrations of the winter solstice in Europe involved merriment and feasting. In pre-Christian Scandinavia, the Feast of Juul, or Yule, lasted for 12 days celebrating the rebirth of the sun and giving rise to the custom of burning a Yule log.

In ancient Rome, the winter solstice was celebrated at the Feast of Saturnalia, to honor Saturn, the god of agricultural bounty. Lasting about a week, Saturnalia was characterized by feasting, debauchery and gift-giving. With Emperor Constantine’s conversion to Christianity, many of these customs were later absorbed into Christmas celebrations.

One of the most famous celebrations of the winter solstice in the world today takes place in the ancient ruins of Stonehenge, England. Thousands of Druids and Pagans gather there to chant, dance and sing while waiting to see the spectacular sunrise.

Pagan author T. Thorn Coyle wrote in a 2012 HuffPost article that for many contemporary celebrants, solstices “are a chance to still ourselves inside, to behold the glory of the cosmos, and to take a breath with the Sacred.”

In the Northern hemisphere, friends gather to celebrate the longest night. We may light candles, or dance around bonfires. We may share festive meals, or sing, or pray. Some of us tell stories and keep vigil as a way of making certain that the sun will rise again. Something in us needs to know that at the end of the longest night, there will be light.

In connecting with the natural world in a way that honors the sacred immanent in all things, we establish a resonance with the seasons. Ritual helps to shift our consciousness to reflect the outer world inside our inner landscape: the sun stands still within us, and time changes. After the longest night, we sing up the dawn. There is a rejoicing that, even in the darkest time, the sun is not vanquished. Sol Invictus — the Unconquered Sun — is seen once again, staining the horizon with the promise of hope and brilliance.

This year the Circle Sanctuary, a prominent U.S. Pagan organization headed by Selena Fox, will observe Winter Solstice Eve with a celebration on Friday, December 21, complete with guided meditation and candlelight rituals.

–HuffPost

Wishing All Our Southern Brothers & Sisters A Very Beautiful & Blessed Tuesday!

Summer Invocation

Fireflies and summer sun
in circles round
we become as one.
Singing songs at magick’s hour
we bring the winds
and timeless powers.
Turning inward, hand in hand
we dance the hearth
to heal the land.
Standing silent, beneath the sky
we catch the fire
from out God’s eye.
Swaying breathless, beside the sea
we call the Goddess
so mote it be!

by Trish Telesco
Published on Witchery

Merry Meet to all our wonderful Brothers & Sisters of the Craft! May The Goddess Bless You & Yours This Monday Morn’!

GODDESS BLESS YE MERRY WITCHES

Goddess Bless ye merry witches, let nothing you dismay,
Remember that the Sun God is born on Solstice Day
To Turn the Wheel towards the Sun with warming solar rays

O tidings of summer and joy, summer and joy;
O tidings of summer and joy.

In the Eastern Quarter, the Child of Light is born,
A tiny flame of sunlight grows stronger every morn;
The Goddess of the Moon and Stars throws back her cloak well worn

O tidings of summer and joy, summer and joy;
O tidings of summer and joy.

“Fear not, then,” said the Goddess “Let nothing you afright
This day is born a Sun of a pure and golden light,
To turn the Wheel of time away from Winter’s power and might.”

O tidings of summer and joy, summer and joy;
O tidings of summer and joy.

Sing praises to the Sun God all you within this place,
With perfect love and perfect trust each other now embrace;
This Blessed Yuletide miracle of Divine Grace.

O tidings of summer and joy, summer and joy;
O tidings of summer and joy.

Goddess Bless the Child of Light, may he proudly reign,
Until at Summer Solstice his light begins to wane
Among your friends and kindred that live both far and near—

—Re-crafted by Rowan Morgana

Final Thought of the Day

This is one the guys or gals, either one can reblog on their site. It would be a great way to start tearing down that old stereotypes that only women are witches. More under the graphic……

I didn’t want to run the graphic too much but I am really glad this man called this to my attention. I think what makes me really angry is when people refer to male witches as warlocks. I start fuming. Then they have the gall to tell me I am wrong. I am wrong because they saw it on TV and that makes it right. HA! I don’t know when people will stop believing what they see on TV. I can’t begin to imagine them thinking it is all true. Then you can tell them what a warlock is and they still insist that male witch is a warlock. I believe some of them need to get their head out of their rumps. I mean if an actual witch don’t know what a male witch is called, who does?

I have to say, dear sir, you opened my eyes and I guarantee you we will focus more on the male witches than what we have been doing. Thank you very much for calling that matter to my attention.

Y’all have a great rest of your weekend,

Love ya,

Lady A

Witches of the Craft’s Northern & Southern Hemisphere Journal (part 2) Dec. 9 – 10

Witches of the Craft’s Northern & Southern Hemisphere Journal

(part 2)

“Magick, in essence, is the ability to communicate to the universe what you want in an effective way, so that the universe can then respond and create what you desire.”

Christopher Penczak
The Witch’s Coin: Prosperity and Money Magick

Your Horoscopes for the Week of December 8

Claire Petulengro, Astrologer

From The Astrology Room

ARIES (March 21st-April 20th)

You don’t just get there by wishing for it Aries, or by hoping for it. You get what you want (and who you want) by working for it. It doesn’t matter what stage you are at in a relationship, there are always going to be obstacles. This week offers you the chance to work out better ways of working with instead of against each other.

TAURUS (April 21st-May 21st)

You’ve come a long way in the last few weeks Taurus and it’s important that you acknowledge how far you’ve come. After all my friend, what point is all the hard work if you don’t get to enjoy some of the glory? Promises are made to be broken by certain close ones this week, so try to have a back up plan in place.

GEMINI (May 22nd-June 21st)

Try to slow your pace and pay attention to what is going on around you, as your close ones are trying to give you important clues as to where your future is headed. They want more from you and I know you’ve got it to give. Ensure that your stubborn mood doesn’t become your worst enemy. Remember how hard you’ve worked to get what you want!

CANCER (June 22nd-July 23rd)

There are a lot of rumours which Mars is spreading and which are leading you to think things which may not be true. Try to go to the source and not third parties, who may be trying to add fuel to the fire for fun. Think long term this week. You and I know you don’t enjoy playing games, so don’t get dragged into them.

LEO (July 24th-August 23rd)

Friends are not making it easy for you to be truthful to them about what has really gone on in the last six weeks. However, your face is giving away far more than you think, so try not to be left in an awkward spot which could see you lose the upper hand. Time spent with old friends helps you remember what’s important to you.

VIRGO (August 24th-September 23rd)

I know life has not been easy for you of late, but I also see that you have been allowing others to make your decisions for you. This may make them happy short term, but is sure to make you unhappy in the long run. You know you’re a sign who likes to be in control of life, so don’t pretend otherwise.

LIBRA (September 24th-October 23rd)

You don’t have to say things you don’t mean just to make others feel good. Surely a sign such as you has learnt that the truth always comes out in the end. Better to be honest from day one my friend. Try to get all work out of the way before Thursday, as a certain person will be taking all your attention from Friday onwards.

SCORPIO (October 24th-November 22nd)

Check your diary Scorpio. Have you forgotten something important? This week is really reflective for you. Not only do you start to see things from others’ points of view, but you finally manage to put an issue from the past behind you for good. This more grown up attitude links to the lessons last weekend taught you.

SAGITTARIUS (November 23rd-December 21st)

You need to make up your own mind about what you want, so stop asking others what they would do in your situation. Happy times come from you calling up those you have missed and putting game playing firmly to one side. Honest talks on Friday can change the way you view your future.

CAPRICORN (December 22nd-January 20th)

Someone you thought was not going to agree to your demands caves in. This is a good thing of course, but don’t let your defences down too soon or you will only end up out of control again. Fun times link to you agreeing to do things which would not normally appeal to you. You’ve changed though and so have your tastes.

AQUARIUS (January 21st-February 19th)

Something which you had hoped would happen has not really panned out as you would like and, in the process, has left you feeling unsure of what to do next. Just keep putting one foot in front of the other Aquarius, as the stars will soon be making sure that you cross paths with those who can help you work out what has to happen next.

PISCES (February 20th-March 20th)

Try to be fair in family issues this week. An antagonistic mood which Mars has unleashed could see you accusing those you love of things they would never even think of doing. Travel plans for Christmas and New Year begin to get exciting. Money you lend others at the weekend is unlikely to be repaid, so caution. Ring now to hear who upcoming dramatic plans involve.

For Claire’s in-depth horoscope for this week, call 0905 072 0248
Calls cost 77p/min from a BT landline

To book a private tarot, horoscope or clairvoyant reading with Claire over the telephone, click here.
Phone consultations cost UK£55, US$83 for 20mins, UK£90, US$135 for 40mins.

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Your Love Horoscopes for the Week of December 8

Sarah Bartlett, Author

From The Astrology Room

With Mercury now crossing the cusp into Sagittarius, we all have the chance to be more open about our desires and dreams for the future.

All around us there may be confusion or blame, but if you keep your head, when all around are losing theirs, this could be the start of a new departure into exciting love territory.

ARIES

Power-trippers seem to abound right now and it may be that you attract this kind of person because you haven’t had the courage yet to face your true needs? But the great news is that very soon, you will be more self-reliant and more loved than ever before.

TAURUS

Right now, it’s time to devote yourself to a romantic cause. Just take care of responses from those who want to put you down or stop you from achieving your desires. Rise above the petty games and head for your own love future.

GEMINI

This week, you’re capable of getting on to a very high horse and staying there just to infuriate your lover or partner. But wouldn’t it be better to channel this energy into working on yourself, rather than trying to work out why someone is actually just being the best of themselves?

CANCER

You know, deep down, where you really want your love life direction to go. And although there are unpredictable aspects up there in the heavens, right now, the challenge is simply that you must speak up, and show that for all your self-doubt, you have the determination to be a star in your own love show. Do it now.

LEO

There’s a feeling that life has been a constant battle in the past few months, so perhaps it’s time to reach an agreement that what happened to you in your past isn’t relevant to what you have now? And, if you’re single, an acceptance that wishful thinking about an ex is going nowhere. Time to move on.

VIRGO

You just won’t be bound by other people’s expectations, neither bound by obligation, guilt, nor any of the emotions that chain us to the wrong kind of love. You’re either involved in an affair that is going to be exotic, bright, exciting and love-enhancing, or you’re about to meet someone who could offer you the world.

LIBRA

It’s all very frustrating, isn’t it? Quite frankly, the world should be a beautiful, warm, sunny place, and yet people out there, seem to make it difficult and uncertain. But time to accept that the unpredictable are just as valid as reliability. Trust in the mystery of what might be, and you will be rewarded.

SCORPIO

Be ruthlessly honest about what you want in your love life. Do you really crave freedom to do your own thing, or do you secretly want a committed partner? Analyse your motives for what you are doing and what you want for the future. It could have an extraordinary positive effect on your love life.

SAGITTARIUS

It’s understandable you have every reason to want to see the way forward in any relationship, or find a new partner, if single. Yet there does seem to be an air of mistrust and disillusion around love. But maybe it’s all within you? Release the clouds of fear and let the sun shine in your heart again..

CAPRICORN

By being everyone’s friend, loved ones think you have more fun than they do, and it’s currently stirring up an uncomfortable atmosphere. Maybe it’s timely to just enjoy being yourself? Don’t let others take away your right to be free-spirited.

AQUARIUS

You have a desire to discover more about your sensual nature. Time to let your partner know about this side of you, and how it can never be ignored. And if single, you want someone sparkling to lead you a little astray, so maybe it would be worth suggesting that it’s down a road which leads to a new romantic landscape?

PISCES

So why aren’t you enjoying your own delicious love affair? Are you really getting all the passion you really need? Are you creating a deep commitment if attached, or just drifting along being nice and not asking for what you truly want? These questions must be answered, and now.

To book a private tarot or astrology telephone consultation with Sarah, wherever you are in the world, click here.
Phone consultations cost UK£50, US$75 for 20mins, UK£80, US$120 for 40mins.

More details…

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Your Daring Dating Horoscopes for the Week of December 9

David Wells, Astrologer

From The Astrology Room

Aries
Things that are hidden rarely remain that way for long, even someone’s lust for you Aries. How nice. Your love ruler Venus is playing peek-a-boo, which explains the feathers, all you have to do is admit you know who’s carrying a tickling stick with your name on it.

Taurus
Are you really making things easier or are you playing games and loving every moment of it? You can pretend you’re paving the way for a love interest, but we all see how you’re setting out some hoops to see if he or she has got what it takes. They do. Fall hopelessly in love.

Gemini
The recent new Moon in your relationship sky may have had you wondering, wondering what it’s all about this love malarkey? You can wax lyrical with the best of them Gem, but all the chat in the world is wasted unless you take some action. Therein lies the lesson, get stuck in and stop yapping.

Cancer
The Moon start this week in your relationship sky, she meets the lord of karma and then the lord of the underworld; looking intense so far. But lady Moon knows that intense emotions stir interest when they are shared. Someone’s cause is your cause, common ground finds new love.

Leo
It’s probably a better way of being, leaving it up to the love fairies to kick things off as and when it’s supposed to, don’t want to mess with them. You do right Leo, you might end up messing up what’s taken over a decade to set up. Enjoy the social, let the love fairies do their magic.

Virgo
It’s exhausting, truly is, there’s nothing you can do or say that will help him or her come a simple decision; to coffee or not to coffee. Ask if this is a sign of things to come? Will it always be like pulling teeth. Yes, yes it will. Follow the signs, get out and find someone else. Blunt enough?

Libra
As long as you’re out, having a good time, looking amazing, why wouldn’t you add a little romance to the list of things to do this week and it is this week. Hump day is probably the best day of the week for love, you know hump-day right? Wednesday; it’s where the magic happens.

Scorpio
Are you making things up as you go along, I know I am, or are you really seeing just how things are panning out and you have a cunning plan? I can’t make up my mind Scorpio, don’t know if you’re winging it or you’re just lucky? Either way it’s working for you. Venus is working for you. All the love.

Sagittarius
Mars and Neptune aren’t in the part of your chart that instills all the love vibe, unless you’re already sorted and a night in is just what the love doctor ordered. If you’re still single Mars, new love boss for you, could suggest a house mate or a bestie of your bestie is where love waits. Awks.

Capricorn
A social boost from Venus is timely as she traverses your group gathering sky, not your night out with a couple of mates it’s your big party, company do, don’t photocopy anything you’ll regret sky. That’s great if you’ve got a party or two to go to. If not? Find one.

Aquarius
It seems you’re winding down, not winding down for Christmas, more likely you’re winding down after a relationship that wasn’t what you thought it would be or you’re winding down your expectations that anyone will ever live up to your dream partner. Good. Lose all expectations, then things happen.

Pisces
This Mars and Neptune thing that’s going on in your own sky is a big deal Pisces, it’s bringing frustration, annoying vibes and some confusion in life in general but for your love life it may not be the best way forward. Spend a little time on yourself, love stuff will have its day.

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Your Daily Horoscopes for Sunday, December 9th

Jennifer Angel, Astrologer

What will 2019 bring for you? Book a year ahead psychic astrology reading with Jennifer

– Moon conjuncts Pluto and intensifies your emotions so you can gain clarity –

AriesMARCH 21-APRIL 19
If a past hurt comes up for discussion this weekend, don’t ignore it or put it aside for a later date. You can’t change what happened, but you can change your feelings about it. There are many good things happening in your life now so, if you deal with issues as they come up, they won’t fester and keep you from making progress.

TaurusAPRIL 20-MAY 20
Love is not the only thing that makes the world go ’round, money also does and, as you’re ruled by Venus, both are important to you. But don’t judge people on their looks or bank balances. If you’re only interested in what a partner or colleague can offer you materially, you could miss out on life’s many wondrous things.

GeminiMAY 21-JUNE 20
Mercury, your ruling planet, comes out of retrograde, so don’t be in too much of a hurry to come to a conclusion before knowing all the facts. Being in a rush could make you misread the circumstances, and when you don’t see the whole picture, it could lead to disappointing assumptions.

CancerJUNE 21-JULY 22
It’s quite normal not to want to profess your love until you’re sure it’ll be reciprocated but, in so doing, you could come out a loser. Sometimes, it’s worth taking a risk and showing your vulnerability. So, get ready to take a chance on love and not sit on the sidelines; you don’t want to miss out on the most important thing in life!

LeoJULY 23-AUG. 22
Do not wait too long for the perfect moment to tell someone special how you feel; it may never come. Sometimes you have to choose your own time and place, or you’ll miss the chance to say what you want, and then live with the regrets. Life is filled with possibilities, especially this weekend, but if you don’t act on them, they could pass you by.

VirgoAUG. 23-SEPT. 22
Feeling restless and not knowing why can be disconcerting; schedule some solo time to contemplate what could be disturbing you. Being busy all the time, your mind is always on the go and you have no time to think. Once you figure out the cause of your discomfort, the stars align this weekend and you’ll be able to make positive changes.

LibraSEPT. 23-OCT. 22
This weekend, astral interactions can put you in contact with people who can help you move ahead. Even if it sounds nice if some things were always to stay the same, if they actually did, it would stunt your growth on many levels. And if people don’t grow together, they can drift apart. It takes work to keep a relationship from stagnating.

ScorpioOCT. 23-NOV. 21
When fiscal matters require attention, and you need some guidance, make sure you get it from an expert. Asking friends could cause more harm than good; they may mean well, but their advice can steer you in the wrong direction. When you contact someone whose job it is to deal with finances on a daily basis, you’ll come out ahead.

SagittariusNOV. 22-DEC. 21
If you feel you’re not moving forward fast enough, use this weekend to get your life in perspective. Being disappointed with the progress you’ve made this year shows that you’re only seeing what you have not achieved and ignoring all that you have accomplished. You also should realize that it’s not quantity but quality that counts.

CapricornDEC. 22-JAN. 19
You’re stressed when you don’t meet your deadlines, but face the fact that some things can’t be finished in the allotted time. Being dependable, you keep plugging away, but make time to enjoy life! Venus in your social zone, encourages you to take a step back and enjoy life rather than being too serious. Focus on someone special.

AquariusJAN. 20-FEB. 18
Being busy this weekend is no excuse to ignore the people who matter in your life. Look at your calendar and reassess the schedule, particularly for the upcoming holidays. It’s also a good time to see how you feel about certain situations, and how you want to move forward from this point.

PiscesFEB. 19-MARCH 20
Discussing work with a colleague can be somewhat enlightening, but not all details may be available. To get the right answers, ask specific questions of those who know. This weekend, someone close can divulge something interesting going on in his or her life. The stars encourage you to have a fun and light-hearted time.

—Jennifer Angel

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What Makes You Irresistible? Zodiac Dos and Don’ts for Love

What Makes You Irresistible?
Zodiac Dos and Don’ts for Love

To find more information, you can check out my colleagues site on this link about zodiacs and love compatibility?

Aries: You’re a power house and you know it, Aries. People are drawn to your fiery energy and may be envious of your physical prowess. Comfortable in your body, you know how to use it. That positive vibe and proactive approach to life are irresistible! Do be romantic; use that talent to charm; when you feel good about yourself, you can sweep anyone off their feet. Don’t expect your lover to be prince charming or lose interest if she has a bad hair day. Do use your personal drive to help support your partner; don’t focus too much on yourself.

Taurus: An earthy strength and sensuality make you famously irresistible, Taurus. You know how to communicate without words, and can make your partner feel like he or she is the center of the Universe. Others feel naturally secure in your presence. Naturally generous, you want to shower all the gifts of the Earth on your beloved. Do pamper your loved one; great food, back-rubs, a touch of luxury goes a long way. Don’t be too stubborn. Make your point but stay open. Do use your strength to nurture your partner. Don’t indulge your temper at their expense.

Gemini: The Twins’ combination of brilliance, humor, buoyant spirit and zest for life makes you pretty irresistible, Gemini. Your whimsical charm blends unique personal style with expressive talents and can be positively captivating. Mysterious, funny, unpredictable and open to new experiences, you are never a boring companion! Do prioritize mental compatibility; that’s what will keep you interested. Don’t flake out; if you say you’ll call, follow through. Do use your enthusiasm to help your partner through difficult moments; your ability to uplift can be magical. Don’t indulge in deception; if you cannot commit, say so.

Cancer: An innate sensitivity enables you to know exactly what others feel, which inspires real devotion, Cancer. You nurture, protect and are fiercely loyal to your loved one. A deeply shared understanding in your close relationships makes people cherish their bond with you. Add to all this your charming sense of humor make you truly irresistible! Do open up and let your sweetheart know how you feel. Don’t let irrational fears cause you to withdraw. Do dare to trust and show your silly side; it’s lovable. Don’t let your moods run your life; it’s not fair to your partner.

Leo: You’re hot and you know how to work it, Leo. With a regal, commanding presence and dramatic flair, you literally light up the room. That lion-hearted generosity and natural leadership cannot help but draw people into your orbit. Romantic, passionate, creative and up-beat, you are impossible to resist! Do share your enthusiasm; theatre, parties, creative projects – get your honey on board, they’ll love you for it. Don’t be too bossy. Lead but don’t dictate. Do be supportive; your encouragement can make all the difference. Don’t let your vanity run away with you. Learn to laugh at yourself.

Virgo: Classy, gentle refinement and obvious intelligence make you stand out, Virgo. Compassionate, giving and acutely perceptive, you’re so much more special than you realize. You have a thoroughbred quality, and inspire respect for your skills and ability to heal and soothe almost any situation. Your discriminating taste makes your loved one incredibly lucky; you really are irresistible! Do be supportive – you have a magic touch. Don’t be too critical; remember we’re all works in progress. Do lighten up and have fun with your sweetie; all work and no play is no way to live. Don’t worry so much! Stress is contagious.

Libra: Libras are famously charming, and it’s your genuine appreciation for others and natural impulse to share that makes you so. Instinctively fair-minded with a refined, artistic sensibility, you exude an aura of grace that works like a magic spell. That beautiful smile and friendly manner, with always a kind word, make people want to be around you. You’re built for romance, Libra, and you’re irresistible! Do share social activities with your partner. Don’t make pleasing others your profession. Do take time alone to find inner balance. Don’t Let your partner make all the decisions.

Scorpio: Yes, you exude sex appeal and your powerful presence has a smoldering mystery that you can turn on at will to put anyone under your spell. What makes you irresistible, Scorpio, is the depth of your sensitivity; the ability to see beneath the surface and communicate soul to soul. When you open your heart and look straight into your lover’s eyes, you open a door to forever. Do Use your strength to support your partner. Don’t shut down in remote silence. Do risk expressing how you really feel. Don’t Let a dark mood or anger get the best of you.

Sagittarius: A special blend of spiritual wisdom, animal magnetism, humor and fiery appetite for life makes you positively irresistible, Sagittarius! You are adventurous, on a quest for truth and justice, and your enthusiastic energy makes you a truly exciting companion. At home in your body, you enjoy the physical world, which is incredibly attractive. Do take your partner along for the ride! Love makes the journey worthwhile. Don’t be insensitive; honesty doesn’t mean thoughtlessness. Do be upfront about your need for freedom. Don’t be afraid of commitment; it can be the wildest adventure of all.

Capricorn: Always a class act, Capricorn, with an earthy sexuality and unmistakable personal power, you do what it takes to become successful. That, in itself, is irresistible! You take excellent care of your loved ones; those protective instincts and sense of responsibility inspire loyalty and devotion. Naturally authoritative, your expertise, discipline and underlying sensitivity are extremely attractive. Do be supportive; your strength helps your partner more than you know. Don’t be too controlling, your sweetheart needs room to breathe. Do be generous; that’s what love is about. Don’t withdraw and go cold – it can ruin a relationship.

Aquarius: Uniquely individual and with a brilliant mind, you radiate an inner light that cannot be ignored. Your genuine kindness and gentle demeanor, fierce will and disregard for convention make you fascinating and irresistible. Friendship forms the basis for your romantic relationships, and whoever is fortunate to join your special world wins a ticket to Wonderland. Do spend alone time with your sweetheart; let them know they’re special. Don’t go cold and silent in withdrawal. Do share your interests with your partner; that’s where you shine. Don’t let your need for independence ruin a good thing; balance togetherness with time for yourself.

Pisces: You exude mystery, Pisces, with a soulful wisdom and sensitivity that inspire others to share their innermost selves with you. Creativity, talent and natural healing ability -not to mention magnetic sexual appeal – make you truly irresistible! Famously romantic, your eyes have an almost hypnotic power; once someone falls into their depths, they never fully recover. Do let your sweetheart know how committed you are; flirting is fun but be smart. Don’t take on your partner’s problems as your own; help out but stay grounded. Do give yourself time to reconnect with your spirit. Don’t let over sensitivity spiral out of control.

—Jennifer Angel

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The Daily Horoscopes for Monday, December 10th

Jennifer Angel, Astrologer

What will 2019 bring for you? Book a year ahead psychic astrology reading with Jennifer

Moon and Uranus square; a reminder to let go and let live!!

AriesMARCH 21-APRIL 19
The combined energy of the Moon and Uranus could highlight a situation at work that will help you put another piece in place for your long-term plan. And even if someone throws a wrench in the works, it will be a sign of what path you need to take. Remember, there is always a silver lining.

TaurusAPRIL 20-MAY 20
Make sure not to bring bad habits into the new year; make changes to improve your life instead. And begin with your attitude. Surround yourself with people who can give you good advice and positive support. And if something doesn’t pan out the way you expect, stay positive.

GeminiMAY 21-JUNE 20
The energy of the Saturn having an influence on your bank balance and could put you in a false sense of security with you thinking your bank account is in better shape than it is. If friends ask for a helping hand, before you hand over a gift of cash, don’t leave yourself short.

CancerJUNE 21-JULY 22
An interchange between the Moon and Uranus can release energy that can make you feel optimistic about life. However, sometimes life has its own blueprint and agenda, so go ahead and make plans but be prepared to change them, if need be. A positive outlook will tip the scales in your favor.

LeoJULY 23-AUG. 22
Stay flexible this week; things could change unexpectedly and the results you had expected may turn out completely different, perhaps forcing you to alter your daily routine. But before you institute anything new, consider how it could affect others.

VirgoAUG. 23-SEPT. 22
In spite of family and love being top priority, right now, you may have more to deal with other priorities you had not anticipated. People and situations may require attention, but figure out your most pressing needs at the moment and see to them post-haste.

LibraSEPT. 23-OCT. 22
Official matters and finances are highlighted this week; however, if you find some unexpected extra money in your wallet, don’t blow it on unnecessary things. Indulging in retail therapy may cause instant gratification but, in the long run, it’s not smart.

ScorpioOCT. 23-NOV. 21
Holidays bring invitations and that turns into partying, which can often mean that your well-being is neglected. Before you say yes to get-togethers, you better check your calendar and make sure you don’t do too many cancellations at the gym or with your health coach.

SagittariusNOV. 22-DEC. 21
Jupiter, in your sign can put an idealistic spin on a situation that relates to your overall life. Enjoy the social time that approaches, but keep in mind that not everyone may be able to fit in with your plans, so be flexible.

CapricornDEC. 22-JAN. 19
With the holidays fast approaching, and stable Saturn settled in your sign, the planet of responsibility, you’ll want to do as much as possible now to close off 2015 and get ready for 2019. Before rejoicing in the holiday spirit, first take care of tasks on your to-do list.

AquariusJAN. 20-FEB. 18
If a friend needs a helping hand with finances, be realistic about what you can and can’t do for them. There is no point helping someone out only to put pressure on yourself. But you can be there for them in an emotionally supportive way, which sometimes is better than money.

PiscesFEB. 19-MARCH 20
There’s a certain time of year when every star sign is better capable of attracting his or her dream lover. And, with Mars, the passion planet, in your sign, this is your time. However, it is likely your attention will be divided between love business matters.

—Jennifer Angel

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The Daily Tarot Card for Sunday, December 9 is The Emperor

The Emperor

Keywords: taking action, responsibility, competence, leadership!

Astrological Correspondence: Aries

As the complement to the Empress, the Emperor represents the father figure, reigning through wisdom, order, authority, power, and control. Thus he embodies the material world, structure, and order, and balances the Empress’ abundance and pure instinct. His stable leadership and authority are not to be questioned. The Emperor reminds us that rational thought, willpower, and fearlessness yield recognition and overall achievement. Through strength he creates and builds material things, families, and communities. He gives them structure, and projects are put on a solid foundation. On an emotional level this card symbolizes the confirming of established feelings, tightening of links among beings, and self-respect. In a negative situation this card can mean despotism, tyranny,

The Daily Tarot Card for December 10 is The Pope (Southern Hemisphere)

The Pope

Keywords: teaching, school, blessing, ritual, marriage, acting!

Astrological Correspondence: Taurus

As a priest, the Pope, or Hierophant, represents traditional values and moral development. He is the wise teacher or counselor guiding groups or collectives on their path in search for spiritual truth or meaning. Depicted as a religious figure in ceremonial vestments he interprets secret mysteries, divine law, and theological doctrine. Although this card implies that he is linked to the church, the Pope signifies not only organized religion but also focus on groups in general, such as schools, teams, companies – any group with fixed roles and assigned responsibilities. The Pope is a symbol for rules, procedures, structure, and ritual, creating harmony within groups and staying their course so they can find identity and progress as a whole. The negative imagery symbolizes dogmatism and inflexibility, extreme conformity, or conventionalism.

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The Daily Love Tarot Card for December 9 is The Pope

The Pope

In older Tarot decks, The Pope was called The Hierophant. The Hierophant is the explainer of mysteries. This card selected you in order to reveal that there are explanations behind a recent event. Be still and be aware. The discovery relieves pressure, especially that of expectation anxiety. You may find that your instincts were spot-on. If you’re single, the more time you dedicate to communicating, the more important information you learn about someone.

The Daily Love Tarot Card for December 10 is The High Priestess (Southern Hemisphere)

The High Priestess

Love arrives today in the form of a mature and balanced partnership in which two people give as much as they get. They share their dreams. Be content if this is what you have. If a partnership is undergoing a rough patch at this time, balance comes in the form of compromise. It is easier to attain, and it works. This is especially true when we are slow to forgive and forget.

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The Erotic Tarot Card for December 9 is The Fool

The Fool

The Fool chuckles and tells you that while some of you sexual antics have been foolish lately, they’re almost always fun and entertaining. This card signifies your sexual potential and abilities, and cheers on enthusiasm for all things erotic while still encouraging you to pay attention to the potential dangers and consequences along the way. The Fool says that all things are possible, but just because certain sexual pleasures are being offered doesn’t mean you have to partake in them.

The Erotic Tarot Card for December 10 is The World

The World

You have the World at your fingertips, so what are you afraid of? The World card shows that your sexual options are plentiful right now, but they can also be overwhelming. Too much of a good thing can turn bad quickly, so pick out your very best option and go with that. Be proud of your romantic conquests. You’re a worldly lover, and fully realizing your capabilities will put you over the top – in a good way.

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Your Daily Rune for December 9 is Mannaz

Mannaz

“Man-az” – Literally: “Mankind”

Esoteric: Humankind, awareness

Rune of the Divine structure of intelligence in the human soul or psyche. Rune of the horizons of human existence and collective potential.

Psi: mind & memory (Hugin & Munin), the difference between human and all other life, development of the intellect, rational mind, perfected intelligence

Energy: psychic order of the gods reflected in humankind, projection of Self into time

Mundane: thinking, planning, analysis, the human condition, people at large (contemporary: the masses)

Divinations: Divine structure, sustainability, intelligence, awareness, social order, divine influence in life; or depression, mortality, blindness, self-delusion, collective suicide, bigotry, elitism, intellectual arrogance.

Governs:

Self-Actualization
Realization of the divine structure in humankind
Increase in intelligence, memory and mental powers (passing tests)
Unlocking the third-eye hvel, the “mind’s eye”
Activating the dynamics of your own inner Christus, or Higher Self
Awareness of our roles as co-creator with the gods and nature
Mental and spiritual potential

Your Daily Rune for December 10 is Fehu (Southern Hemisphere)

Fehu

“Fay-Who” – Literally: “Cattle” –

Esoteric: Mobile Property, New Beginnings, Wealth

Key Concepts: Wealth, money, food, sustenance, Hamingja, luck, personal power, circulation of power, financial strength, prosperity

Psi: Beginner’s Mind, presence, freedom, first impressions, young love

Energy: mobility, luck, charisma, dynamic power, liquid and mobile transferable energies, abundance, circulation, ‘mana’, sexual attraction

Mundane: money, recent purchases, reputation, freshness, fashionability

Divinations: New beginnings, social success, foresight, energy, travel, money, control; or greed, failure, atrophy, poverty, endings.

Governs:

Delegating your energy to another, power transference or projection; the sending rune
Drawing gravity into the personal sphere
Promotion of personal and social evolution, changing circumstances of importance
Increase in personal monetary wealth
Beginner’s mind and presence as a tool for consciously creating a fresh start

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Your Weekly Influences for December 9, 2018

(Northern & Southern Hemisphere Both)

Tarot Influence

Six of Swords Reversed

Life is at a standstill. Difficulties will probably remain as they are.

Astrological Influence

Aquarius Reversed

This card signifies the closing of both heart and mind, which leads to stagnation.

Element Influence

Earth Reversed

Earth reversed denotes a lack of positive connection with the life spirit–a lost soul. If you are not careful you may miss much of what life has to offer you.

We are turning this issue lose right now. I just looked at the clock and realize what time it was. I know you don’t want your horoscopes and other stuff at 4 this afternoon. I promise now that we have a general idea of what we are doing we will get faster and quicker. Hopefully, my back won’t start bothering me either.

So how did we do? Do you like the format? Was it easy to read? Got any suggestions?

Male Witch

Witches of the Craft’s Northern & Southern Hemisphere Journal for December 9 – 10

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“I want witchcraft so bad that I can’t stand it. I have wands in my apartment. And I use them sometimes. I walk into the kitchen with my wand, and I come out with something on a platter and I say, ‘See, magic happens.’ Works every time.”

–Amy Sedaris

NORTHERN HEMISPHERE

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Current Planetary Positions

December 09, 2018
Northern Hemisphere

Sun: 17 Sagittarius 24
Moon: 12 Capricorn 47
Mercury: 27 Scorpio 51
Venus: 04 Scorpio 15
Mars: 15 Pisces 01
Jupiter: 06 Sagittarius 54
Saturn: 08 Capricorn 46
Uranus: 28 Aries 56 Rx
Neptune: 13 Pisces 45
Pluto: 19 Capricorn 53

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Planetary aspects for the Month of December

December 15, 06:49 am – 1st Quarter Moon 23 26
December 16, 09:26 am – Venus sextile Saturn
December 17, 01:57 am – Mars sextile Pluto
December 20, 11:21 am – Sun trine Uranus
December 21, 12:11 pm – Venus trine Neptune
December 21, 12:36 pm – Mercury conjunct Jupiter 09 34
December 22, 12:48 pm – Full Moon at 00 49
December 24, 07:31 pm – Mercury square Neptune
December 28, 04:30 pm – Venus sextile Pluto
December 29, 04:34 am – 3rd Quarter Moon 07 36

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The Solar Almanac for Sunday, December 9, 2018

Northern Hemisphere

Sun Direction: 114.73° ESE↑
Sun Altitude: -5.31°
Sun Distance: 91.555 million mi
Next Solstice: Dec 21, 2018 4:22 pm (Winter)
Sunrise Today: 6:56 am↑ 118° Southeast
Sunset Today: 4:37 pm↑ 242° Southwest
Length of Daylight: 9 hours, 41 minutes

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Facts about the Sun’s Composition

*The sun is a ball of gas and has no solid surface.
*Its composition is 91% Hydrogen, 7.8% Helium, and 1% other gases.
*Helium is the second most abundant element both in the sun and in the universe, but very hard to find on earth.
*It contains different layers with varying temperatures; the corona, photosphere, chromosphere, and the core.
*The chromosphere contains spikes of gas called spicules.
*It is visible as a flash of color at the starting and ending of total solar eclipses.
*The photosphere is the opaque layer of gas that makes the sun appear to be solid.
*It’s also responsible for emitting light, and is cooler than the outer most layer, the corona.
*The transition region is a very narrow (60 miles / 100 km) layer between the chromosphere and the corona where the temperature rises abruptly from about 8000 to about 500,000 K.
*The corona releases a stream of charged particles referred to as solar wind.

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The Lunar Almanac for Sunday, December 9, 2018

Northern Hemisphere

Moon Direction: 99.04° E↑
Moon Altitude: -25.66°
Moon Distance: 249070 mi
Next Full Moon: Dec 22, 201811:48 am
Next New Moon: Jan 5, 20197:28 pm
Next Moonrise: Today8:49 am
Current Moon Phase: Waxing Crescent
Illumination: 4.7%

All Lunar & Solar Almanac from timeanddate.com

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Moon Lore Regarding Relationships & Marriage

*As the Moon regulates water, it’s an age-old belief that it also regulates the rise and fall of our emotional tides.
*According to some lore, the full Moon is an ideal time to accept a proposal of marriage as love is amplified. *This certainly does not mean that marriages that do not happen on Full Moon nights are not successful – although it could be less than auspicious to get married when there’s no Moon in the sky at all.
*Further, the Full Moon is the best time to consummate marriage, according to the ancient Greeks, while the New Moon is the best time to drain out stale energy and belief systems.
*The New Moon phase is also the one best for breaking up.
*According to folklore, if a young woman sees a dove and glimpses the new Moon at the same instant, she should repeat: “Bright Moon, clear Moon, Bright and fair, Lift up your right foot, There’ll be a hair.” When she removes her shoe, she’ll find a hair the color of her future husband’s.

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BEST DAYS IN DECEMBER 2018

Below are the best days for activities, based on the Moon’s sign and phase in December.

Cutting hair:
1, 3, 29, 30
Quit Smoking:
5, 28
Traveling for pleasure:
25, 26

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This Week’s Sky at a Glance, December 9 – 15

By: Alan MacRobert

Sunday, December 9

• Now the crescent Moon is easy in twilight. If it were a bow, it would be aiming an arrow down at Saturn, as shown above.

Monday, December 10

• Again the twilight crescent Moon is a bow aiming its arrow at Saturn, but now from farther away (as shown above).

• As soon as twilight ends, look above the Moon for Alpha and Beta Capricorni. Both are binocular double stars.

Tuesday, December 11

• Now you’ll find Alpha and Beta Capricorni to the right of the Moon at nightfall.

• The Summer Triangle is sinking lower in the west, and Altair is the first of its stars to go (for mid-northern observers). Start by spotting bright, zero-magnitude Vega in the northwest right after dark. The brightest star above Vega is Deneb. Altair, the Triangle’s third star, is farther to Vega’s left or lower left. How late into the night, and into the advancing season, can you keep Altair in view?

Wednesday, December 12

• The thick crescent Moon forms a roughly equilateral triangle, 20° or more on a side, with Mars to its upper left and Fomalhaut to its lower left.

Thursday, December 13

• The Mars-Moon-Fomalhaut triangle has narrowed since yesterday as the Moon moves eastward along its orbit.

• The Geminid meteor shower should be at its peak late tonight! In early evening the meteors will be few, but those that do appear will be Earth-grazers skimming far across the top of the atmosphere. As the hours pass and the shower’s radiant (near Castor in Gemini) rises higher in the east, the meteors will become shorter and more numerous — the most so from midnight to dawn.

Layer up even more warmly than you imagine you’ll need; think radiational cooling! Find a dark open spot with no local lights to get in your eyes, lie back in a reclining lawn chair, and gaze up into the stars. Be patient. As your eyes adapt to the dark, you may see a Geminid every minute or two on average as night grows late.

Friday, December 14

• In early evening, Mars shines above the Moon. Mars is about twice as big as the Moon in physical diameter, but it’s currently 425 times farther away.

Look far below them for Fomalhaut. At a distance of 25 light-years, Fomalhaut is 1.4 million times farther away than Mars.

Saturday, December 15

• Now, in early evening, Mars shines to the right of the first-quarter Moon. Look above them for the Great Square of Pegasus.

As evening grows late, Mars tilts down to the Moon’s lower right.

–Sky and Telescope

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Moon Phase Calendar

Sunday – 9th December 2018

Northern Hemisphere

Current Moon Phase: Waxing Crescent

Moon Currently in the sign of Capricorn

Moon in Capricorn:
You might have a strong need for being useful to the society and you look for justification in the outside world. You may underestimate what you want from yourself and for yourself. Shyness may be accompanied by resentment of the fact that others ignore you. Do not seek approval from the outside, it will not help you get rid of your doubt and it is harmful to you. You have to trust your inner values.

Organs influenced by Capricorn Moon Sign:
Organs: Knees, joints, backbone, spinal muscles, patella, bones, tendons and ligaments, skin, hair, spleen, the organ of balance.

These organs are now more sensitive so provide them with extra care.

Surgical operations:
Surgical operations are not recommended during the Waxing Moon.

SOUTHERN HEMISPHERE

Current Planetary Positions
December 10, 2018
Southern Hemisphere
Sun: 18 Sagittarius 25
Moon: 24 Capricorn 48
Mercury: 28 Scorpio 20
Venus: 04 Scorpio 57
Mars: 15 Pisces 40
Jupiter: 07 Sagittarius 07
Saturn: 08 Capricorn 53
Uranus: 28 Aries 55 Rx
Neptune: 13 Pisces 46
Pluto: 19 Capricorn 55

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Planetary aspects for the Month of December

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The Solar Almanac for Monday, December 10, 2018

Southern Hemisphere

Sun Direction: 190.91° S↑
Sun Altitude: -32.51°
Sun Distance: 91.554 million mi
Next Solstice: Dec 22, 2018 9:22 am (Summer)
Sunrise Today: 5:37 am↑ 119° Southeast
Sunset Today: 7:58 pm↑ 241° Southwest
Length of Daylight: 14 hours, 21 minutes

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The Lunar Almanac for Monday, December 10, 2018

Southern Hemisphere

Moon Direction: 217.99° SW↑
Moon Altitude: -25.13°
Moon Distance: 249110 mi
Next Full Moon: Dec 23, 20184:48 am
Next New Moon: Jan 6, 201912:28 pm
Next Moonrise: Today7:52 am
Current Moon Phase: Waxing Crescent
Illumination: 4.8%

All Lunar & Solar Almanac from timeanddate.com

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Lunar Lore

The legend of the werewolf (were has etymological roots in Old English and means man) comes from the tales of the beastly side of men coming out at the Full Moon.

The Moon is the Queen of the Underworld and a bridge to the shadowy realms of the psyche.

The Moon is a passageway to the hidden (occulted) mysteries, including ancestral memory and past lives.

The natal Moon in the birth chart can be a symbol of feminine identity for women; for men, it’s the sought-after feminine ideal, and the kind of woman to form a soul-bond with.

Molly Hall, Author
Published on ThoughtCo

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Why the seasons are reversed in the southern hemisphere ?

Simply because of the tilt of the Earth.

Because of this inclination, the northern hemisphere, receives more energy from the Sun, While the southern hemisphere receives less.

This corresponds to the boreal summer (in the northern hemisphere) and the southern winter (in the southern hemisphere).

Six months later, It’s the opposite because the southern hemisphere is better exposed to solar radiation.

In spring and autumn, the radiation received in the two hemispheres is identical. But the temperature is different, because a hemisphere coming out of winter and its soil and water have yet to be reheated, While the other hemisphere comes out of the summer and still enjoys its soil and water heat.

What’s better than this video of “It’s not rocket science” to explain it in detail …

And voila !

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BEST DAYS IN DECEMBER 2018

Below are the best days for activities, based on the Moon’s sign and phase in December.
Cutting hair:
1, 3, 29, 30
Quit Smoking:
5, 28
Traveling for pleasure:
25, 26

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Northern Hemisphere

Today is Sunday, December 9

Traditionally, Sunday is the first day of the week. It is also known as the Lord’s Day from it original association with the Lord, that is, the Sun God, personified as Helios, Apollo, Ogmios, Mithras, and St. Elia. But in the Northern Tradition, the sun is seen as feminine, personified as the goddess known as Phoebe in East Anglia and Saule in eastern Europe. The sun rules the conscious element of the human being, the ego, the real self, and Sunday is the day on which this conscious power is at its most effective.

Deity: Sol

Zodiac Sign: Leo

Planet: Sun

Tree: Birch

Herb: Snakeroot

Stone: Ruby

Animal: Lion

Element: Fire

Color: Gold

Rune: Sigel

Celtic Tree Month of Ruis (Elder) (November 25 – December 22)

The Runic Half Month of Is (November 28 – December 12)

Goddess of the Month of Astraea (November 28 – December 23)

—The Pagan Book of Days
Nigel Pennick

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The Goddess Book of Days for December 9

Fiesta of the Mother of Health in Mexico, dedicated to Tonantzin, the Virgin of Guadualupe. See also, December 12. She is Mary, Isis, Yemaya, Kwan Yin, Tonantzin, Guadualupe, the Black Virgin, Tara, Sarasvati, and Chalchiuhtlique.

The Goddesses Associated With Sunday

Sunne, Sol, Frau Sonne, Aditi, Igaehindvo, Amaterasu, Arinna, Izanami, Ochumare

–The Goddess Book of Days
Diane Stein

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On Sunday, December 9, We Celebrate…

Tonatzin (Mexico)
TONATZIN

Themes: Religious Devotion; Blessing

Symbols: Soil; Light

About Tonatzin: An ancient mother figure who nurtures people and all that dwells in the land, Tonatzin is the life and light of the world. Today she joins our festival as the originator of this holiday.

To Do Today: Juan Diego, an Indian convert, was surprised when this goddess appeared to him in 1531 in an ancient site of pagan worship and requested that the temple be rebuilt. Juan Diego believed this apparition was Mary, and therefore he did as she commanded. To this day, people come here at this time of the year for the goddess’s blessing.

While most of us cannot travel to Mexico just to implore Tonatzin, there is nothing that says we can’t honor and invoke her at home. Light a candle or lamp and place before it a potted plant or bowl of soil. This configuration represents Tonatzin’s presence in your home throughout that day. From here she can illuminate the shadows and generate the light of hope and joy for all those who live there.

Carry a seed and some soil wrapped in a green cloth with you today. Name the seed after any earth quality you want to develop in your life, such as strong foundations or emotional stability. When you get home, put the seed and soil in a planter or your garden. Tonatzin’s magic is there to manifest growth for the seed and your spirit!

365 Goddess: A Daily Guide To the Magic and Inspiration of the goddess
Patricia Telesco

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Sunday: Do not get disappointed

Would you guess what planet is associated with this day? Easy, isn’t it? You can object that the Sun is not a planet. You are right. It is a star.

Do not get dissapointed that you are not meeting any god. For ancient cultures, the Sun and its daily cycle were crucial because their lives depended on its light and warmth making it possible to grow plants and get rid of the fear of the nightly shadows. Every morning, they were afraid the great gold sphere would not rise up in the heavens again. So the Sun was mostly understood as an incarnation of their most important deity and they were begging it with their prayers to come back the other day.

In many Romance languages, Sunday is called the Lord’s Day (Domingo in Spanish, dimanche in French, domenica in Italian: based on the Latin expression Dies Dominica) since this was the day when the God started his one week creation feast.

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Magickal Work for Sunday

 Health
 Abundance
 Leadership
 Strength
 Ambition
 Individuality
 Authority
 Hope
 Joy
 Happiness
 Creativity

–A Spell Crafter’s Compendium
Terri Paajanen

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Sunday’s Associations

Taking its name from our closet star, the Sun, Sunday is the best day of the week to work magical involving fathers and other authority figures such as your boss. It is also a good day to work on questions regarding leadership, money, prosperity, and power.

Color: Yellow, gold

Planet: Sun

Deities: Brighid, Helios, Ra, Apollo

Crystals: Quartz, diamond, amber, carnelian

Herbs: Marigold, sunflower, cinnamon

Associations: Success, promotion, fame, wealth, prosperity

–Flying the Hedge

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The Magickal Days of the Week — Sunday

In many traditions of Paganism, days of the week are very important aspects of effective spellcasting. For example, spells to do with abundance or prosperity could be done on Thursday, because it is associated with riches and desire. When casting a spell concerning business or communication, one might prefer to work on a Wednesday due to its associations.

While not all traditions follow this rule, when you’re doing any sort of magical working, always be sure to document the day of the week you’re performing the spell.

You might be surprised later on to see some connections!

Sunday Magical Correspondences

Sunday is associated with the colors yellow and gold, which shouldn’t be surprising – it’s the day of the sun, right? Because of this planetary association, this is a day that’s also connected to solar deities like Helios and Ra. Interestingly, in some Celtic traditions, Brighid’s day is Sunday as well.

When it comes to crystal use, Sunday is related to quartz crystals and diamonds, as well as the yellowish hues of carnelian and amber. For herbs and plants in magical workings, use marigolds, sunflowers or cinnamon.

What kind of magic is best performed on Sunday? Well, it’s a day that generally has a number of associations – agriculture, beauty, hope, victory, self-expression and creativity are all connected to this particular day. Plant or harvest something new (not just material crops, but metaphysical ones as well), create something from nothing, and prepare to win at everything.

Patti Wigington, Paganism/Wicca Expert
Article originally published on & owned by ThoughtCo.

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Sunday’s Witchery

Those ambitious, successful spells and charms will be heightened by working on the day of the week that has the planetary influence of the sun. So light those sunny candles, wear some luminous colors, and break out the gold jewelry! Bake up some cinnamon rolls or low-fat cinnamon muffins for an enchanting family breakfast. Take an orange with you to eat at lunch today. Try using a little magickal aromatherapy and burn some cinnamon-scented incense to encourage success and wealth today. Make the talisman to keep your solar magick with you. Sprinkle some dried marigold petals around your house-or across the threshold-to pull triumph and protection toward you and your family.

Get outside and tip up your face to the sun. Take a walk outside, and soak up some sunshine! Acknowledge the power of Sunna or Helios as they blaze across the sky and bring courage and motivation into your life. Sit outside at sunrise on a Sunday morning and bask in its warm, rosy-golden glow Acknowledge Brigid as the inner, creative spark of imagination and inspiration. She can help these gifts burn brightly within your own soul. Use your imagination and create your own brand of witchery and magick. Here comes the sun, and it’s your turn to shine!

—–Book of Witchery: Spells, Charms & Correspondences for Every Day of the Week
Ellen Dugan

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The Witches Almanac for Sunday, December 9

Anna’s Day (Sweden)

Waxing Moon

Moon phase: First Quarter

Moon Sign: Capricorn

Incense: Juniper

Color: Gold

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The Witches Correspondences for Sunday

Magickal Intentions: Growth, Advancements, Enlightment, Rational Thought, Exorcism, Healing, Prosperity, Hope, Exorcism, Money

Incense: Lemon, Frankincense

Planet: Sun

Sign: Leo

Angel: Michael

Colors: Gold, Yellow, Orange and White

Herbs/Plants: Marigold, Heliotrope, Sunflower, Buttercup, Cedar, Beech, Oak

Stones: Carnelian, Citrine, Tiger’s Eye, Amber, Clear Quartz and Red Agate

Oil: (Sun) Cedar, Frankincense, Neroli, Rosemary

The first day of the week is ruled by the Sun. It is an excellent time to work efforts involving business partnerships, work promotions, business ventures, and professional success. Spells where friendships, mental or physical health, or bringing joy back into life are an issue work well on this day, too.

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The Witches Magick for Sunday, December 9 – Spell for Banishing and Needed Changes

Sit in a quiet place that is special to you.

Hold a white or cream candle in your hands and visualize the area of your life that this candles energy is needed in. After you light this candle the energy will come to you. It may come right away or when you lease expect it. When you are ready recite the spell or use your own words of power.

This candle I see before me, its color so bright,
Holds my needs of change in its light.
I call in the forces higher than I
To release the energy that is held inside
May it work for me in the most correct way,
Harming none and helping all as it leaves my stay.
I call on thee in perfect trust and love sending me guidance from above.
This I make happen and so be it will.
Take away this thing that brings me ill.
So mote it be.3x3x3

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Moon Phase Calendar

Sunday, 9th of December 2018

Moon Phase: Waxing Crescent

Moon Currently in the Sign of Capricorn

Organs influenced by Capricorn Moon Sign:
Organs: Knees, joints, backbone, spinal muscles, patella, bones, tendons and ligaments, skin, hair, spleen, the organ of balance.

These organs are now more sensitive so provide them with extra care.
Surgical operations:
Surgical operations are not recommended during the Waxing Moon.

SOUTHERN HEMISPHERE

Today is Monday, December 10th

Monday is the sacred day of the moon, personified as the goddesses Selene, Luna, and Mani. The moon is ruler of flow, affecting the changeable and impressionable aspects of people. If a full moon falls on a Monday, then the powers of the moon are at their most potent.

Deity: Mani

Zodiac Sign: Cancer

Planet: Moon

Tree: Willow

Herb: Chickweed

Stone: Agate

Animal: Crab

Element: Water

Color: Green

Rune: Lagu (L)

Celtic Tree Month of Ruis (Elder) (November 25 – December 22)

The Runic Half Month of Is (November 28 – December 12)

Goddess of the Month of Astraea (November 28 – December 23)

—The Pagan Book of Days
Nigel Pennick

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The Goddess Book of Days for December 10th

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The Magickal Day of Monday

Monday is the day of the moon itself, and it’s a day that’s connected to lunar colors like silver, white, or even a pale blue. Metals and gemstones like silver, pearl, opal and moonstone all come into play today.

There are plenty of deities associated with the moon – Thoth and Diana for instance – and herbal correspondences include many members of the mint family. Utilize wintergreen or peppermint, as well as catnip, comfrey, sage and chamomile in your workings.

When it comes to Monday magic, because of that lunar connection, it’s a good time to focus on workings related to childbearing and family life, purity and virginity, healing, wisdom, and intuition. Do a little bit of self exploration and work on developing your intuition – learn to trust your gut. Celebrate birth and life, and make some magic to fix what is broken.

—Patti Wigington, Paganism/Wicca Expert
Article published on & owned by ThoughtCo

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Monday’s Witchery

Think for a moment on all of the witchery, magick and enchantments that you have discovered. Don’t be afraid to adjust spells to suit your own specific needs. Any gentle, illusory, and dreamy charms and spells can be enhanced when you work on the day of the week that is dedicated to the moon. Mondays are a fantastic day to boost your psychic abilities and to tune in to your intuition and empathy. It also gives you the opportunity to work with a different lunar phase each and every Monday, which means in one month you could work four different types of moon magicks on Mondays. How’s that for adding to your repertoire? You are going to have mad skills in no time at all.

So light up those lunar scented candles and add a little mystique to your outfit by wearing an enchanting lunar color. Wear your sparkling silver jewelry and maybe add a pair of dangling silver earrings or a pendant shaped like a crescent moon. Create lunar potions and philters; make a dream catcher and give it as a gift to someone you love. Burn some sandalwood or jasmine-scented incense today to inspire the glamour and magick of the moon. Slice up a favorite variety of fruit that is in season for a snack or share it with your love and enjoy his or her lunar and romantic qualities. Brew up a cup of chamomile tea, enchant it with a little moon magick, and relax and get a good night’s sleep.

Most importantly, get outside tonight and watch the moon for a while. What phase is she in? What color was the moon as she rose? Why not start a journal and write down at what location the moon rises and sets for a few seasons? This is a great way to teach you to tune in and to become more aware of the moon and the influence that she pulls into our lives. Try calling on Selene for her magickal assistance, and call Thoth for wisdom and strength. Get to know the Norse Mani and the Latvian Meness. These gods of the moon have plenty to teach, and if you allow their influence to cycle through your life, you’ll receive many blessings. Be imaginative, and create your own personal lunar magick and witchery. Go on….the moonlight becomes you

—Book of Witchery: Spells, Charms & Correspondences for Every Day of the Week
Ellen Dugan

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The Witches Almanac for Monday, December 10

Hanukkah ends

Waxing Moon

Moon phase: First Quarter

Moon Sign: Capricorn

Moon enters Aquarius 6: 39 pm

Incense: Clary sage

Color: Lavender

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Correspondences for Monday, December 10

Day: Monday ( Moon-day)

Planet: Moon

Colors: Silver and White and Grey

Crystals: Moonstone, Pearl, Aquamarine, Silver, Selenite

Aroma: Jasmine, Lemon, Sandalwood, Moon Oil, African violet, Honeysuckle, Myrtle, Willow, and Wormwood

Herb: Moonwart

The sacred day of the Moon, personified by such goddesses as Selene, Luna, Diana, and Artemis. The Moon is ruler of flow affecting the changeable aspects of people. If a full moon falls on a Monday, its powers are at their most potent. Magical aspects: peace, sleep, healing, compassion, friendships, psychic awareness, purification, and fertility

Monday is ruled by the moon – an ancient symbol of mystery and peace. Monday is a special day for mothers as the cycle of the moon has long been associated with the female menstrual cycle. Those wishing to conceive a baby would be wise to try on a Monday as the magic of motherhood is strong and pregnancy is in the air.

This is the proper day of the week to perform spells and rituals involving agriculture, animals, female fertility, messages, reconciliation’s, theft, voyages, dreams, emotions, clairvoyance, home, family, medicine, cooking, personality, merchandising, psychic work, Faerie magic, and Goddess rituals.

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The Witches Magick for Monday, December 10 – A Money Ritual to Invite Prosperity in Your Life

This isn’t some “get-rich-quick” spell.

Items You WIll Need
Green candle
Bay Leaves
Plain white piece of paper

I usually have some other candles around and sometimes will also use some of the essential oils that I know draw in money. Think of the amount of money that is needed, not what is wanted.

Asking for a million dollars is absolutely ridiculous to say the least. Write down the amount that you know you need to help you achieve your goals (paying bills, paying for college, camp fees, whatever) on the plain, white piece of paper. Fold the paper in half three times. After getting a connection with your goddess, light your green candle. Use your own incantation to ask the Goddess for her help and guidance to find the money that you need. Place the paper under the candle.

Now close your eyes and see money coming to you. Don’t think of how it comes, just see it come. See it appear in your hand or maybe imagine it flying around you like in those money booth games and see yourself snatching it out of the air. While doing this, I burn a bay leaf in the candles flame. Inhale the fragrance emitted by the bay leaf. If you have money-drawing oils, then a few drops on the sides of the candle can be placed as you give thanks to the Goddess for listening to you.

Close as you feel appropriate. Leave it all set up when you finish if you are able and repeat. Start it on the new moon and repeat several times until the full moon. At this point, burn the paper and spread it’s ashes to the wind.

Let’s Talk Meditation

Find a quiet space where you will be undisturbed. If you have an altar, that’s an ideal spot.

Seat yourself comfortably. You may wish to assume the Lotus position, sitting on a cushion on the floor with your legs crossed, pelvis tilted forward, shoulders back, and spine straight.

If sitting on the floor is painful or uncomfortable, sit in a chair with your feet flat on the floor, your spine straight, and your hands on your knees.

Close your eyes and breathe deeply.

As you breathe, feel your body relaxing completely.

Check in with your body, turning your attention first to your feet, then to your ankles, to your shins, and so on up to the top of your head. Feel each part of your body relaxing with your breath.

If a part of you contains built-up tension, simply accept that it is there and continue breathing.

At this point, you may begin doing a visualization exercise, or you may move into a deep, meditative state. Let’s move into a deeper meditative state.

Continue breathing. Focus all your consciousness on your breath.

Do not try to control your breathing. Simply let your body do what it does naturally.

Thoughts will come into your head. Let them come, and let them go.

Return your awareness to your breathing.

Continue breathing in and breathing out.

Repeat the last three steps again and again.

After you have done this for a while, you will reach a place inside of yourself that is beyond words.

Tips:

Don’t get discouraged! Meditation is harder than it sounds. Be gentle with yourself and do what you can do today.

Meditation gets easier with practice. Try to meditate every day, even if it is just for five minutes. The longer you can sit, the deeper you can go.

Meditation is like listening to God/dess. But in order to listen, you first must still your own mind so that you can hear what S/He has to say. Have faith that S/He is there, waiting to speak to you.

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Basic Meditation Techniques

by Bill Witt

The course is divided into three sections. Section one deals with what meditation is and how it plays a part in the lives of those who use it. Section two will go into the techniques and tools of meditation. Section three gives suggestions on how to use what you’ve learned, in everyday life. A list of books for further reading on the subject, will be given at the end of section three.

Webster defines meditation as “The act of meditating; close or continued thought; the revolving of a subject in the mind.”

To meditate is to focus mentally on one thought, idea, or concept. It may also mean, to revolve an idea in your mind so as to change the way in which you think of that idea. Meditation is therefore, a tool with which you may manipulate thought in an organized manner.

Many people view meditation as a very difficult thing to learn. In reality though, we do it often without even knowing it. When you daydream or find your mind fixed on one thought, that is a form of meditation. Have you ever watched a bird in flight, or stared up at the clouds in the sky, or maybe even found yourself watching a stream of water flow by? If you have and at that moment the rest of the world around you has seemed removed, then you were in a state of meditation. The real key to this practice, is to be able to exercise control over your thoughts and awareness of the world around you.

There are many groups of people for whom meditation is an everyday ritual. Others use it at special times as a means of relaxation and “mental house cleaning.” It allows the individual a freedom unlike no other freedom. The freedom to look inside oneself and learn just who you are. Some use it as a way of being closer to nature or God. No matter how you wish to use it, you will find it a healthy and very rewarding experience.

Most all religions practice meditation in one way or another. Eastern philosophies such as Yoga, and Buddhism are not the only ones to view meditation as a way of looking for the Truth found in one’s own consciousness. Even in Christianity meditation finds a place of value. The Bible itself mentions the value of meditation. In writing to the Philippians, the Apostle Paul tells them this. “Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” (Phil. 4.8)

So you ask,what can it do for me. Well, beyond just being a good way to really relax, which we can all use in this hectic world, it can be a doorway to the Truth inside yourself. It is a way of gaining wisdom. Knowledge has always been fairly easy to come by. Wisdom on the other hand, is a bit harder to grasp onto.

In “The Task” by William Cowper, the following line is found. “Knowledge dwells in heads replete with thoughts of other men: Wisdom, in minds attentive to their own.”

For me, mediation becomes a way of “grounding” myself, of reaching a place of peace and stability, where I can find how I fit into the universe.

In many philosophies, mediation is viewed as a necessary skill. All those who are students of these philosophies must learn the ways of mediation early in their training. Although the techniques may vary from one group to another, the most basic concepts remain the same. The ability to be able to focus on one thought and selectively block out all others is the foundation upon which many more advanced skills will be built. These skills may range from telepathy to the ability to move objects with only the mind.

It is well known that Yogi adepts can lower their breathing and heart rates to near death levels. This is something you should not try as it takes years of practice to learn and can be quite dangerous. Still, these yogis are proof of the type of power the mind can exercise over the body through meditation.

In some cultures, the use of drugs to achieve a meditative state is encouraged. The American Indians for example, used drugs derived from various plants to put themselves into an altered state of consciousness. This was usually done as a religious practice and as an event marking the change from one state of life to another. A good example would be the ceremony marking the coming into manhood of a young boy. Today there are still many, who advocate the use of drugs to achieve these altered states. It is my opinion that such measures are neither necessary nor good. You can reach an altered state of consciousness without the use of drug induced “highs”. It takes practice, but it can be done.

In New Age philosophy, the art of meditaion is highly valued. We also find another well developed skill which is called “creative visualization”. This is the idea of visualising what you want to the point of it becoming reality. A good example would be a salesman visualizing himself as successful and prosperous. The concept is simple, if you can visualize a personal reality, you can change or bring that reality into being. “Positive Thinking” is a very similar idea. The technique of creative visualization goes beyond positive thinking however. It deals with the premise that we all create our own reality and therefore have the power to change many aspects of that reality. The idea of “personal reality” is a lengthy one and we do not have enough room to cover it in this course.

So far we have looked briefly at what meditation is and how it is used. By no means have we touched on all the aspects of this practice. There are many books on the subject which cover it in much more detail. My purpose is to give you an overview of the many facets of meditation in the hope that you will wish to learn more.

BASIC MEDITATION TECHNIQUES

This is the second part of a three part online course in Basic Meditation Techniques

In this second section of the “Basic Meditation Techniques” course, we will discuss various relaxation procedures and how they will aid you in entering a trance or meditative state. You will also be given some ideas about types of music and other “tools” which can help you achieve these relaxed states of mind. Let’s begin.

First, let’s set the stage for our meditation practice. You should pick a place which is as private and safe as possible. An altered state of mind, as in meditation, lessens your awareness of the outside world. For this reason, it is not advisable to practice these techniques in a public place where there is a chance of being mugged, robbed, or molested. If you are at home, with other family members or friends present, ask that you not be disturbed and that all other noise in the house be kept to a minimum. When you have found a place suitable for meditation, you may begin.

“The seekers of new mind states-the mind control devotees, the encounter group enthusiasts, the drug takers, the psychics, the mediators – all are on a journey into the interior universe trying to burst the limits of the socially conditioned mind. Whether acceptable or unacceptable, moral or immoral, wise or foolish, the mind of man is stirring toward a new evolution.” Dr. Barbara Brown (1)

As I said in section one,trance or mediative states,alter the way your mind deals with the realities it accepts as normal. Things which are experienced in a trance state are often not easily expressed in everyday language. You will at some level, experience a heightened state of awareness. Colors, smells, and sounds may seem amplified from what they normally are.

People who can achieve very deep states of trance often leave their bodies in astral projection, or have psychic experiences.

I highly recommend, that if you wish to enter deep states of meditation, you do so under the guidance and teaching of someone who is well trained in the practice of such techniques. The key thing to remember is that it’s not what level your working on as much as what you are learning. There is alot to be gained in wisdom and knowledge at all levels of trance.

Now let’s learn some simple and useful relaxation exercises.

You want to be sure that the time you pick to practice your meditation is a time when you are least likely to be disturbed. You should not be overly tired or have just finished eating as both of those conditions may cause you to fall asleep. Even though you wish to achieve an altered state of consciousness, you do want to remain conscious to some degree. If you fall asleep when you are meditating, no harm is done and you will awaken quite refreshed and rested. Unfortunately though, you may not be able to recall all the things you experienced while in trance.

If you are lying down, be sure your back and neck are properly supported so as not to fatigue the body. If you are sitting, be sure that both feet are flat on the floor and that you are sitting as erect as possible without being too stiff or strained. You should have your arms resting comfortably in your lap with palms up.

In either case, it is important that your body not become strained or fatigued for at least thirty minutes. This is a good length of time to begin with as it should put neither a physical or mental strain on your being.

Next, visualize a yourself in a cocoon of white light. You should surround yourself completely. See the light as bright and warm. You may play with this sphere of light making it bigger or smaller until it “feels” right for you. Say to yourself, “I am protected by the pure white light of all that is good and truthful. I am surrounded by the pure light which keeps out all unwanted and evil influences.”

This is a good idea to do for several reasons.There are those, and I am one of them, who believe that each of generates an aura which protects us from outside influences when we are in trance. This aura may be strengthened by visualizing the light as growing brighter at our command. Even if you do not accept this idea, the practice lends a feeling of safety and security to you. Nothing which is outside of you may enter or touch you without your permission.

Learning to control and pay attention to your breathing is the next step. You should start by taking a deep breath in through your nose, hold it for the mental count of 4 and then let it all out slowly through your mouth. Repeat this until you begin to feel at rest and relaxed. Allow your breathing to settle into a steady, rythmic rate. Just this simple technique can relax and refresh you at any time. When you are only doing the breathing exercise, it is not necessary to go through the white light sphere visualization. Some people use a muffled metronome or recording of some other rhythmic sound, such as ocean waves, to aid them in setting the pace of their breathing. A good source of recorded sounds which can help you in meditation is a series of records and tapes which have been produced under the title “ENVIRONMENTS”.

Now, as you are breathing,see yourself lying in the warm light of the sun. The light is warm and pleasant to be in. Starting with the tips of your toes, feel the light warming all of your body, slowly moving up into your legs, your trunk, and then into your arms and fingers. As you feel this warming become more and more relaxed, going deeper and deeper into a calm and quiet place.

When you fell totally relaxed and at peace, bring a single thought into your mind. It should be of a pleasant experience or of an idea such as love, joy, peace, or compassion. Focus on this one thought and if some other thought should try to intrude, picture it as being written on a clear board between you and your focal thought. Then picture it being erased from that board as it might be from a piece of paper. Deal with any thought, other than your focal thought, quickly. Try to maintain concentration on your focal thought for at least five minutes. Picture it as being real and experience it as if it were. When you are able to do this and can exclude all other thoughts as they attempt to enter your mind, you will have learned the single most important technique of meditation.

It is now time to begin coming back to normal consciousness. Slowly let the thought fade from your mind and again become aware of the warm light of the sun. As you fell the light bathing you in its’ warmth, start to reconnect your mind with the physical sensations of your body. Become aware of your breathing and the room around you. Do this slowly and calmly. When you are fully aware of your surroundings, open your eyes slowly. Enjoy the sense of calm and peace.

If you succeeded in doing this exercise, you should feel more relaxed and calm than normal. It is important to remember that you are comparing it to normal for you, not to what you think others would or should feel.

If you do not feel you succeeded try again in a day or two. Between meditaion sessions, practice your deep breathing exercises. If you keep trying, you will soon reach a calm and meditative state. Do not attempt to meditate when you are ill, tired, or hungry. Those feelings only serve to make your efforts more difficult. A very important part to remember is that you can not force yourself into a meditative state. You must flow into it and surrender to it calmly.

Some things which are found to be helpful in meditation follow.

Try concentrating on the flame of a candle when focusing. You could also use a crystal ball. The later is rather expensive but small crystal window ornaments or pyramids also work well and cost much less.

Music is also an aid to some. The music should be quiet and rhythmic. It should bring on feelings of peace and comfort. Such music may range from New Age recordings to classical.

Another useful device is to focus on a symbol which holds special meaning for you. It may be an well known symbol or one you design yourself. As long as it holds a special meaning or expresses a special concept, it is a useful focusing tool.

This brings section two of this course to a close. In the next part I will give you some practical ways in which to use what you have learned.

The most obvious use of the techniques you have learned, is relaxation. During the course of the day, many of us have moments when the pressure becomes almost to much. When this happens, we often can’t deal with other people or projects the way we should. The breathing exercises you learned in section two can help at these times.

It doesn’t require a lot of time or absolute quiet as does your meditation practice. All that is required is about five minutes and relative privacy. At these times, begin doing your rhythmic breathing and visualize a place which is calm and refreshing. This simple and quick exercise, can work wonders to help you regain control in a hectic situation.

Another way in which meditation is used is in the development of psychic powers. There are several books on the subject, listed at the end of this section. Most of those who teach about the use and development of these abilities, agree that meditation is necessary to any such study. Again the reason for this is that meditation allows you to reach an altered state of consciousness. In this altered state your mind is more open to such phenomenon as telepathy. If you should decide to peruse studies in this direction, please seek the help of someone trained in these areas.

One final use I will suggest is visualization. Meditation can be used as a tool for problem solving. While in a meditative state of mind, you have the ability to take any situation and manipulate it. By that I mean you can mentally play the out the situation using several different solutions. Then, you can pick the one which seems to best solve the problem. While the use of meditation can help you deal with problem solving more effectively, it is not infallible. All it can do is allow you to think more clearly and concisely about the problem at hand.

Well that concludes this study on meditation. I hope you have gained something useful from this course. It has been by no means, a full explanation of the subject. There is much more to learn than could be covered in this short series and It is my hope that you will want to continue your studies into this fascinating and useful skill.

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Spirit Message of the Moment – Time to Celebrate Litha

An Ancient Solar Celebration

“Nearly every agricultural society has marked the high point of summer in some way, shape or form. On this date – usually around June 21 or 22 (or December 21/22 in the southern hemisphere) – the sun reaches its zenith in the sky. It is the longest day of the year, and the point at which the sun seems to just hang there without moving – in fact, the word “solstice” is from the Latin word solstitium, which literally translates to “sun stands still.” The travels of the sun were marked and recorded. Stone circles such as Stonehenge were oriented to highlight the rising of the sun on the day of the summer solstice.

Traveling the Heavens
Although few primary sources are available detailing the practices of the ancient Celts, some information can be found in the chronicles kept by early Christian monks. Some of these writings, combined with surviving folklore, indicate that Midsummer was celebrated with hilltop bonfires and that it was a time to honor the space between earth and the heavens.

Fire and Water
In addition to the polarity between land and sky, Litha is a time to find a balance between fire and water. According to Ceisiwr Serith, in his book The Pagan Family, European traditions celebrated this time of year by setting large wheels on fire and then rolling them down a hill into a body of water. He suggests that this may be because this is when the sun is at its strongest yet also the day at which it begins to weaken. Another possibility is that the water mitigates the heat of the sun, and subordinating the sun wheel to water may prevent drought.

Saxon Traditions
When they arrived in the British Isles, the Saxon invaders brought with them the tradition of calling the month of June Aerra Litha. They marked Midsummer with huge bonfires that celebrated the power of the sun over darkness. For people in Scandinavian countries and in the farther reaches of the Northern hemisphere, Midsummer was very important. The nearly endless hours of light in June are a happy contrast to the constant darkness found six months later in the middle of winter.

Roman Festivals
The Romans, who had a festival for anything and everything, celebrated this time as sacred to Juno, the wife of Jupiter and goddess of women and childbirth. She is also called Juno Luna and blesses women with the privilege of menstruation. The month of June was named for her, and because Juno was the patroness of marriage, her month remains an ever-popular time for weddings. This time of year was also sacred to Vesta, goddess of the hearth. The matrons of Rome entered her temple on Midsummer and made offerings of salted meal for eight days, in hopes that she would confer her blessings upon their homes.

Midsummer for Modern Pagans
Litha has often been a source of contention among modern Pagan and Wiccan groups, because there’s always been a question about whether or not Midsummer was truly celebrated by the ancients. While there’s scholarly evidence to indicate that it was indeed observed, there were suggestions made by Gerald Gardner, the founder of modern Wicca, that the solar festivals (the solstices and equinoxes) were actually added later and imported from the Middle East. Regardless of the origins, many modern Wiccans and Pagans do choose to celebrate Litha every year in June.

In some traditions, Litha is a time at which there is a battle between light and dark. The Oak King is seen as the ruler of the year between winter solstice and summer solstice, and the Holly King from summer to winter. At each solstice they battle for power, and while the Oak King may be in charge of things at the beginning of June, by the end of Midsummer he is defeated by the Holly King. This is a time of year of brightness and warmth. Crops are growing in their fields with the heat of the sun, but may require water to keep them alive. The power of the sun at Midsummer is at its most potent, and the earth is fertile with the bounty of growing life.

For contemporary Wiccans and Pagans, this is a day of inner power and brightness. Find yourself a quiet spot and meditate on the darkness and the light both in the world and in your personal life. Celebrate the turning of the Wheel of the Year with fire and water, night and day, and other symbols of the triumph of light over darkness.

Litha is a great time to celebrate outdoors if you have children. Take them swimming or just turn on the sprinkler to run through, and then have a bonfire or barbeque at the end of the day. Let them stay up late to say goodnight to the sun, and celebrate nightfall with sparklers, storytelling, and music. This is also an ideal Sabbat to do some love magic or celebrate a handfasting, since June is the month of marriages and family.”

Excerpts from Patti Wigington, ThhoughtCo

Spiritblogger’s Blog

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Spirit Message of the Day – Winter Solstice – Spirit of Warmth

YULETIDE & WINTER SOLSTICE
Monday, December 21st, marks the day of Yule. Also known as midwinter, Winter Solstice. This is the longest night of the year and is the time when the Goddess gives birth to the new spark of hope; the light of the world which was conceived during the rites of Ostara.

The season is for celebrating the rebirth of the sun. The Sun God, who dies at Samhain, is reborn from the Maiden aspect of the Pagan holy trinity: Maiden, Mother, and Crone. On the Winter Solstice, longest night, the Goddess gives birth to the Sun Child when hope for new light is born. The notion of hoping the light returns may seem a bit strange in modern times, but the originators of these traditions did not have the scientific sophistication of contemporary times. The waxing and waning of sunlight was a mystery.

This is one of three holy days that feels supremely comfortable to Pagans because they are celebrated by the culture at large with many of the Pagan customs and conventions in place. Practices such as gift giving, tree decorating, the hanging of greenery, kissing under the mistletoe and the burning of a Yule log are all unmistakably Pagan. The old Pagan ways are the template over which some religious traditions have laid claims to the season. The most common tradition still in existence from times of old is probably the Yule tree including the stringing of rosebuds, cinnamon sticks, and popcorn garlands, use for keeping the wood spirits warm during the cold winter months. Bells were hung in the limbs so they would ring with spirits passed by.
–Excerpt taken from author Gretchen Raisch-Baskin

“Dance and Sing the Birth of Sun,
For Holly’s reign is gone and done.
‘Tis from this death rebirth we heed
as bread is found from grinding seed.
So, look within for grain to grind.
May peace and joy be all you find.”
–Raven’s Wing

The Winter Solstice: The Unconquered Sun

At the Winter Solstice, we celebrate Children’s Day to honour our children and to bring warmth, light and cheerfulness into the dark time of the year. Holidays such as this have their origin as “holy days”. They are the way human beings mark the sacred times in the yearly cycle of life.

In the northern latitudes, midwinter’s day has been an important time for celebration throughout the ages. On this shortest day of the year, the sun is at its lowest and weakest, a pivot point from which the light will grow stronger and brighter. This is the turning point of the year. The romans called it Dies Natalis Invicti Solis, the Birthday of the Unconquered Sun.

The Roman midwinter holiday, Saturnalia, was both a gigantic fair and a festival of the home. Riotous merry-making took place, and the halls of houses were decked with boughs of laurel and evergreen trees. Lamps were kept burning to ward off the spirits of darkness. Schools were closed, the army rested, and no criminals were executed. Friends visited one another, bringing good-luck gifts of fruit, cakes, candles, dolls, jewellery, and incense. Temples were decorated with evergreens symbolizing life’s continuity, and processions of people with masked or blackened faces and fantastic hats danced through the streets.

The custom of mummers visiting their neighbours in costume, which is still alive in Newfoundland, is descended from these masked processions.

Roman masters feasted with slaves, who were given the freedom to do and say what they liked (the medieval custom of all the inhabitants of the manor, including servants and lords alike, sitting down together for a great Christmas feast, came from this tradition). A Mock King was appointed to take charge of the revels (the Lord of Misrule of medieval Christmas festivities had his origin here).

In pagan Scandinavia the winter festival was the yule (or juul). Great yule logs were burned, and people drank mead around the bonfires listening to minstrel-poets singing ancient legends. It was believed that the yule log had the magical effect of helping the sun to shine more brightly.

Mistletoe, which was sacred because it mysteriously grew on the most sacred tree, the oak, was ceremoniously cut and a spray given to each family, to be hung in the doorways as good luck. The celtic Druids also regarded mistletoe as sacred. Druid priests cut it from the tree on which it grew with a golden sickle and handed it to the people, calling it All-Heal. To hang it over a doorway or in a room was to offer goodwill to visitors. Kissing under the mistletoe was a pledge of friendship. Mistletoe is still forbidden in most Christian churches because of its Pagan associations, but it has continued to have a special place in home celebrations.

In the third century various dates, from December to April, were celebrated by Christians as Christmas. January 6 was the most favoured day because it was thought to be Jesus’ baptismal day (in the Greek Orthodox Church this continues to be the day to celebrate Christmas). Around 350, December 25 was adopted in Rome and gradually almost the entire Christian Church agreed to that date, which coincided with Winter Solstice, the Yule and the Saturnalia. The merry side of Saturnalia was adopted to the observance of Christmas. By 1100 Christmas was the peak celebration of the year for all of Europe. During the 16th century, under the influence of the Reformation, many of the old customs were suppressed and the Church forbade processions, colourful ceremonies, and plays.

In 1647 in England, Parliament passed a law abolishing Christmas altogether. When Charles II came to the throne, many of the customs were revived, but the feasting and merrymaking were now more worldly than religious.

Here in Nova Scotia outdoor coloured lights play an important part in the local celebration of the mid-winter season. With the day turning to darkness so early in the North, it is cheering to look out into the cold and dark at lights sparkling and glittering in the crisp air.

Our celebration of Children’s Day is inspired not only by the pagan celebrations of mid-winter but arises also out of the Japanese holidays of Boy’s Day and Doll’s Day, which are two separate days in the spring, when boys and girls of a certain age are presented to the temple and honoured with special gifts. The Shambhala Children’s shrine is modeled after the display of ancestral dolls traditional in homes on Doll’s Day.Our sangha is our village, our clan, our family. Our children belong to all of us, and are bright reminders of the future of Buddhism. We celebrate them and the Great Eastern Sun together at the darkest time of the year, with open-hearth parties and cheerful festivities.

The Unconquered Sun first appeared as an article by Janet Shotwell in The Karma Dzong Banner (Vol III, No 11, December 1991, Halifax, Nova Scotia).
Spiritblogger’s Blog

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Witchy Tip #101 for December 9 – 10

If you need an energy cleansing real quick this is a simple spell to do the trick:

Light a black candle, wait until the flame is at its peak. Then take a white candle and light it with the black candle until the white candle’s flame is larger than the black candle’s. Then, verbalized or think of the negative energy leaving you and blow the black candle out.

You should notice a difference in the energy by the next morning!

Witch Tips : The Essential Guide to Contemporary Witchcraft
A. Rayne

“Walk barefoot, listen to the wind, drink in the moon…. BE MAGICK”

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Enjoy the Daily Journal, help support it by visiting our store, Magickal Necessities. All sales for the store goes to support the WOTC and all its operations. Current Yule Special 15% discount on your final purchase price. Plus a Blow Out Sale on all our Jar Candles, everything from Love to Return to Sender Jar Candles, price drastically slashed.

One for the Men, Let’s Start Tearing Down Those Old Stereotypes Today!

Litha Approaches (Southern Hemisphere)

Yule Approaches (Northern Hemisphere)

To All Our Brothers & Sisters of the Southern Hemisphere, Wishing You A Very Beautiful Monday & Blessed Week Ahead!

Summer Solstice

(Litha)

Summer Solstice Comes in December
Magnifies the Sun at Noon
Mighty Sol with Pride most High
Brightens Long Days of the Sky

Zenith Point is Reached Today
Feel the Warmth, Soak up the Rays
Passionate Nights are Hot and Dry
Listen to the Couples Sigh

Waxing Year Falls out of Sight
Waning Year Arrives so Bright
Bless the Death-in-Life Aspect
Show our Goddess Great Respect

Tensions Rise between the Kings
One must End and One Begins
Fallen Oak King Burns and Dies
Holly King Prevails and Thrives

Ritual Fires Burn Slow and Sure
Render Embers Black and Pure
Gather Ashes for a Charm
Protect the Wearer from All Harm

Twin Fires Burn with Space Between
Allowing Balance to Intervene
Ashes Falling from the Flames
Protects the Gods and All Not Named

Sacred Wood of Fir and Oak
Kindles Fires with Magic Smoke
Hold the Torch of Bundled Reeds
Gather Mugwort and Fern Seeds

Herbs are Tossed into the Blaze
Seeking Voodoo through the Haze
Basil, Thyme, Rosemary, Rue
Parsley, Sage and Mistletoe, too

Flaming Wheel Rolls Down the Hill
Symbol of the Sun’s Great Skill
Cauldron Filled with Water Sounds
Swirling Liquid does Rebound

Ride the Broomstick through the Fields
Bless the Earth and All it Yields
Walking Naked To and Fro
Conceive within the Vegetable Rows

Abundant Flowers in Full Bloom
Fragrant Roses Fill the Room
Greet the Maidens Dark and Fair
Fashion Heather in their Hair

Summer Solstice, Lord of White
Ushers in the Wheel of Light
Blazing Sun is at its Peak
Hail the Balance it does Seek

by Kachina
—Victory of Light

Wishing All Our Dear Brothers & Sisters of the Craft A Very Beautiful & Blessed Sunday!

DANCING IN A WICCAN WONDERLAND

Pagans sing, are you listening’
Altars set, candles glisten,
Its a magical night, we’re having tonight
Dancing in a Wiccan Wonderland

Blades held high, censor smoking,
God and Goddess, we’re invoking,
Through Elements Five, we celebrate life,
Dancing in a Wiccan Wonderland,
Queen of Heaven, is in her place,
Triple Goddess, now the Crone face
Above and below, She’s the Goddess we know,
Dancing in a Wiccan wonderland.

Now the God, is the provider
Supplying game for our fire,
Above and below, He’s the Horned one we know,
Dancing in a Wiccan Wonderland

In a circle we can burn a Yule fire,
And await the rising of the Sun,
It’s the great wheel turning for the new year,
loaded with abundance and great fun

Later on, by the fire,
Cone of Power, getting’ higher
Its a Magical Night, we’re having tonight,
Dancing in a Wiccan Wonderland!

–Author Unknown

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