Your Love Horoscopes for the Week of May 14th

Romance may take a distracting detour as love’s ruling planet Venus turns retrograde in restless Gemini on Tuesday. This starts a six-week backward period when we tend to think about old relationships and find it harder to start new ones. Allow more time to get comfortable with others and accept the inconsistent feelings that are likely to be more prevalent now. Avoid leaping without looking on Sunday as a Gemini New Moon Solar Eclipse spurs spontaneous actions and flirtatious behavior.
Aries Horoscope
Aries Horoscope (Mar 21 – Apr 19)

Cleaning up unfinished personal business early this week is a key to enjoying yourself this weekend. Let your body guide you on Friday and Saturday when the sensual Taurus Moon occupies your physical 2nd house. Slowly savoring life’s sweet delights relaxes you, making you more desirable to others. Sunday’s chatty Gemini New Moon in your verbal 3rd house opens up fresh channels of communication, allowing for a fresh start in relationships.

Taurus Horoscope
Taurus Horoscope (Apr 20 – May 20)

This could be a confusing week because your amorous ruling planet Venus turns retrograde on Tuesday, which puts your social life in reverse for much of the next six weeks. However, the Moon’s presence in your pleasure-seeking sign on Friday and Saturday is an invitation to indulge your senses. Generously sharing the delights of food, nature, music and physicality creates a joyful experience for you and your lucky companion.

Gemini Horoscope
Gemini Horoscope (May 21 – Jun 20)

If you feel a little socially awkward this week, Venus’ reversal in your sign on Tuesday might explain it. Making decisions could be more difficult now, so it’s better to slow down and carefully consider your options before making an impetuous move. The Moon hides out in your 12th House of Privacy on Friday and Saturday, giving you a chance to retreat and reassess your relationships. Things change quickly on Sunday when the Gemini New Moon Solar Eclipse falls in your 1st House of Self. Tying up loose ends is wiser than starting something serious just yet.

Cancer Horoscope
Cancer Horoscope (June 21 – Jul 22)

Revisiting old relationships in your mind is likely this week with amorous Venus turning retrograde in your 12th House of Subconsciousness. Yet the point is to learn from the past instead of trying to relive it. Hanging out with your friends and being part of a group can provide some entertainment and emotional support on Friday and Saturday. Working for a cause puts your mind back in the present and your feet on solid ground.

Leo Horoscope
Leo Horoscope (Jul 23 – Aug 22)

Sunday could be a significant turning point with a fickle Gemini Solar Eclipse occurring in your 11th House of Groups. Quarreling with a friend or leaving an organization is possible. However, with sociable Venus now in reverse, there’s a good chance that you will change your mind, so avoid making absolute and final decisions this week to be sure that any one of them will stick. Keep an open mind so you can alter your plans later without feeling foolish.

Virgo Horoscope
Virgo Horoscope (Aug 23 – Sep 22)

The clarity you seek in all areas of life may be nearly impossible to find in relationships this week. That’s because the love planet Venus turns retrograde in your usually decisive 10th house on Tuesday, which may spur second thoughts about an actual or potential partner. Simplify your life this weekend by permitting yourself to seek pleasure without over analyzing the long-term consequences of your actions.

Libra Horoscope
Libra Horoscope (Sep 23 – Oct 22)

Your attractive ruling planet Venus turns retrograde on Tuesday, triggering second thoughts about relationships. You could be pining for someone from your past or reminiscing about the good times you used to have with your partner. The point, though, is not to get lost in your personal history now, but to learn from it. Letting go of people, behavior and expectations that no longer work in your life is a key message from Sunday’s Gemini Solar Eclipse.

Scorpio Horoscope
Scorpio Horoscope (Oct 23 – Nov 21)

The power of your passion rarely wavers as you’re either totally into someone or completely disinterested. However, the love planet Venus turns backward in your 8th House of Intimacy on Tuesday, beginning a 6-week reversal in jittery Gemini that can keep your emotions from settling down in one place for very long. Staying flexible and remaining open to different kinds of connections is a way to have fun and avoid frustration at the same time.

Sagittarius Horoscope
Sagittarius Horoscope (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

It’s time to reconsider who and what you want in relationships. Loving Venus’ backward turn in your 7th House of Partners on Tuesday starts a 6-week period of re-evaluating your alliances. Sunday’s Gemini Solar Eclipse is another clear signal that changes are on the way. Avoid making serious commitments that could lock you into a fixed position while you reconsider your romantic options.

Capricorn Horoscope
Capricorn Horoscope (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

Let go of all those complications and get down to the basics of having a good time this weekend. The mood-setting Moon is traveling through sensual Taurus and your 5th House of Fun and Games on Friday and Saturday. Give yourself permission to enjoy the simple things in life without slowing down to analyze the long-term implications of your choices. You can feel free and innocent to have fun if you allow pleasure to come before responsibility now.

Aquarius Horoscope
Aquarius Horoscope (Jan 20 – Feb 18)

Significant shifts in relationship dynamics are likely this week with two major cosmic events occurring in your 5th House of Romance and Creativity. Loving Venus turns retrograde on Tuesday, returning your mind to the past when it comes to matters of the heart. But a Gemini Solar Eclipse on Sunday suggests that the best reason to look backward is to finish old business and let go of outmoded habits that no longer serve your needs.

Pisces Horoscope
Pisces Horoscope (Feb 19 – Mar 20)

Reconnecting with someone from your past is possible as amorous Venus turns retrograde this week. Yet it’s best not to expect that history will simply repeat itself. An airy Gemini Solar Eclipse in your 4th House of Roots on Sunday is like a strong wind that clears out old experiences to make way for something new. But don’t be in too much of a hurry as there are a few complicated conversations to be had before the situation solidifies.

Your Daily Chinese Zodiac Horoscopes for Monday, May 14th

Rabbit

Don’t let a friend or a loved one convince you that their newest “cure-all” will fix everything from cancer to dandruff. It is one in another string of such things that trace their dubious roots to the infamous “snake oil” salesmen of yesteryear.

Dragon

This is not the best day to take a friend aside and confide your concerns, especially when those concerns involve their love life or their children. You may be tempted to offer unsolicited advice, and that is likely to backfire if you are not careful.

Snake

The family member who is in need of emotional support today is you. You cannot rescue everyone else, when you are dealing with emotional issues of your own. Right now, the best way to deal with your feelings is to confront them, and that may mean “telling it like it is” to someone who has not been paying attention.

Horse

Good news is coming in from friends or companions about an upcoming party or gathering. That may be excellent news, just in time to take your mind off some money worries or a dispute over a financial agreement that has you rather frustrated today.

Sheep

If you are looking for new financial opportunities, you may stumble across an interesting “Get Rich” scheme on the Internet that, believe it or not, might actually pay off for you … just not maybe as much or as quickly as you had hoped.

Monkey

An inner riot is getting deafening. If you are at all tempted to think that “it” – whatever may frustrate you right now – is coming from outside or is someone else’s fault, think again. You do create your reality sometimes, often because you need to learn something.

Rooster

It’s another good day to stay silent, but that may be difficult, because you’ll have insights that may be helpful to others. However, if you offer advice before you are asked, it is likely to go unheeded at best – or be thrown back in your face at worst.

Dog

This is not the best day to trust in friendly investment advice. Avoid those who may offer advice or ideas, but whose real agenda is getting a slice of your financial pie. Be careful when discussions of religion or politics roll around too, because you could get trapped in someone’s circular thinking.

Pig

Communications troubles dog your ambitions today. You may find that you have problems with cell phones, fax machines and networked computers. If you are creative, you may find an alternative solution that actually helps you make a better connection with a boss or important client.

Rat

Family members are making unreasonable demands on your time and attention, when you have other plans or responsibilities. You can put them off for a little bit by throwing on the charm. If that does not work, there may be confrontations when you are forced to say “Not today, sorry!”

Ox

You may be looking at changes in your spiritual beliefs or value system today as the result of some unusual information you get from a friend. Some of what they have to say could be wildly speculative though, so it pays to keep an open but skeptical mindset.

Tiger

A romantic relationship seems to skid to a halt today, but don’t worry. There are unlikely to be long-term repercussions to anything that is said or done right now, particularly in romantic or business partnerships. This is not a good day to sign partnership agreements.

the daily humorscopes for monday, may 14th

the daily humorscope 

Monday, May 14, 2012

 
Aries (March 21 – April 19)
Today you will put your foot down, regarding your turn at dinner preparation versus dining out. In other words, “if you ain’t broke, don’t fix it.”
Taurus (April 20 – May 20)
You will need two torches, a sword, leather armor, and a significant amount of courage today. And for heaven’s sake, don’t forget the twine.
Gemini (May 21 – June 20)
Today you will become a digger. Dig, dig, dig. That’s all you’ll think of, for months. You will discover an amazingly large diamond, about 27 feet down, and will be fabulously rich after that. Not that you’ll give me any credit, of course. Ingrate!
Cancer (June 21 – July 22)
Don’t go out today, without a spatula. I can’t say more.
Leo (July 23 – August 22)
People will begin complimenting you on how clean you are. You will find this strangely irritating.
Virgo (August 23 – September 22)
Today you will realize that you’ve always wanted to have the biggest ball of string in town, and will start collecting odd bits of string at every opportunity. Eventually, you will make it into the Guiness Book of World Records, right next to the Giant Happy Tape Ball record set by Mr. S. Boondoggle.
Libra (September 23 – October 22)
Today one or more close relations will pout. You will stoically endure this, and will steadfastly refuse to relinquish control of the remote control.
Scorpio (October 23 – November 21)
An old man with bad teeth will whack you with his cane today, as you walk past. He’ll pretend it was an accident.
Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21)
Excellent day to make strange mouth noises, particularly in a crowded elevator.
Capricorn (December 22 – January 20)
Excellent day to go into politics. Make up a new government position, such as “Regional Manager, Dept. of The Posterior”, and put up hundreds of posters of yourself. With any luck, it will be years before anyone notices that there is actually no such job.
Aquarius (January 21 – February 18)
It’s about time you became better acquainted with mustard. Get yourself 7 different kinds of mustard, and try them with oven baked home fried potatoes, or in sandwiches with good bread and fresh vegetables and some excellent Swiss cheese. My granddaddy Stonebender always used to say “Take a big enough bite of strong mustard, and your other problems will seem insignificant.”
Pisces (February 19 – March 20)
You should learn something from your cat — no matter what you’ve done wrong, you can always try to make it look like the dog did it.

Your Daily Horoscopes for Sunday, May 13th

This is an uplifting day that can bring us joy as the Sun hooks up with bountiful Jupiter in sensual Taurus. This alignment symbolizes the opportunities we have for happiness, and the confidence that we’ll find satisfaction. Meanwhile, the Moon enters imaginative Pisces at 7:41 am EDT and joins dreamy Neptune, making fantasies seem real. Putting our thoughts into motion is further supported by clever Mercury’s harmonious trine to energetic Mars.
Aries Horoscope
Aries Horoscope (Mar 21 – Apr 19)

You feel as if everything is going your way today, but you might end up spending more resources than you expect. It’s as if you’re ready to pay the price to have a good time, but you might underestimate the cost. Thankfully, you can rely on your analytical skills to help you navigate through a day of potential excess. Have fun; just remember that the bill will come due once the party is over.

Taurus Horoscope
Taurus Horoscope (Apr 20 – May 20)

You are feeling quite positive now with the Sun-Jupiter conjunction expanding your horizons and empowering you to soar on the wings of your unrestrained optimism. Although you are ready to enjoy yourself today, overindulging your senses could mean a tummy ache or a splitting head tomorrow. Nevertheless, paying attention to your limits doesn’t have to lessen your enjoyment. Play hard without going too far.

Gemini Horoscope
Gemini Horoscope (May 21 – Jun 20)

You can get by today by doing less work than usual. It’s as if a guardian angel is watching over you, or, perhaps, a close friend comes to your aid just when you need it most. Of course, your positive attitude doesn’t hurt; in fact, self-confidence is a magnet now that attracts good things your way. Don’t second-guess someone’s motives; just graciously accept what is offered with an open heart.

Cancer Horoscope
Cancer Horoscope (June 21 – Jul 22)

There’s no need to head off on your own today. In fact, it’s a good idea to surround yourself with friends and family — the more people, the merrier. Being part of group gives you a feeling of belonging to a community or a tribe of like-minded folks. Don’t be afraid to open your heart to the love that’s around you, for whatever you give will return to you many times over.

Leo Horoscope
Leo Horoscope (Jul 23 – Aug 22)

Although you may be thinking about your professional objectives, you’re not interested in working too hard to reach your goals today. Your confidence is running high and you might even feel as if success is owed to you because of past efforts. Don’t be too cocky or you could inadvertently push away those who want to help you reach your goals. Paradoxically, a little humility goes a long way toward ensuring that you will receive the respect that you deserve.

Virgo Horoscope
Virgo Horoscope (Aug 23 – Sep 22)

Today you can concentrate your intentions toward the fulfillment of your desires. Of course, this doesn’t mean that you’ll receive everything you want. However, your singular focus can actually bring an increase of abundance — including love — into your life. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn and grow. Take advantage of what life has to offer before it’s too late.

Libra Horoscope
Libra Horoscope (Sep 23 – Oct 22)

You may feel that a long-term phase of inner growth is coming to an end. The power of your positive thinking can be transformed into rewarding action now. Your rich fantasy life turns outward toward social activities as your needs begin to shift. Get ready to swing into action, but don’t overextend your commitments or you’ll quickly regret taking on too much.

Scorpio Horoscope
Scorpio Horoscope (Oct 23 – Nov 21)

All types of relationships are favored now and it might even seem as if others just want to make you happy. Although you may question someone else’s motives, your suspicions are probably unfounded. Rather than doubting anyone’s integrity, just accept the advice or assistance you receive with appreciation. But don’t succumb to the temptation of expecting more than is actually offered or you’ll end up being disappointed rather than happily surprised with the good news.

Sagittarius Horoscope
Sagittarius Horoscope (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

Too much of a good thing isn’t always such a good thing. You need to remember now that honoring reasonable limits can help you find satisfaction. You might be carried away by circumstances that start out feeling pleasurable until things grow out of control. Don’t be afraid to enjoy yourself, but keep in mind that excessive indulgence could ultimately bring pain instead of pleasure.

Capricorn Horoscope
Capricorn Horoscope (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

Although your creativity is running high, it’s still difficult to plot a new course of action because there are so many possibilities available. Additionally, if everything is working well enough on its own, you may not want to jeopardize your sense of well-being. Practicality will ultimately rule the roost. Opportunities for personal growth and self-expression are everywhere, but setting priorities enables you to maximize the current potential. Trust your instincts and your chances for success are quite good.

Aquarius Horoscope
Aquarius Horoscope (Jan 20 – Feb 18)

You must filter out the extraneous noise if you are to make the most of your day. You may even need to withdraw from social activities to spend time alone. The greatest opportunities arise now when you are at peace with yourself, rather than when you are interacting with others. Don’t be distracted from your inner process; you’ll do best today by working on your own.

Pisces Horoscope
Pisces Horoscope (Feb 19 – Mar 20)

The mists continue to swirl around you, clouding your perceptions of the outer world while increasing your reliance on your intuition. You are at the top of your game now when socializing, as long as you don’t waste time trying to logically figure out what to say next. Don’t worry if you’re not making sense. Instead of thinking your way through a situation, speak directly from your heart. The real rewards of the day are emotional and spiritual rather than material.

Your Daily Love & Romance Horoscopes for May 13th

Aries

Venus, planet of love is spending her last week in direct motion in your communication sector until later next month and is due to turn retrograde in just 3 days time. This will open the door to second chances, especially on the relationship front, but until then stay in the moment, without projecting forwards or backwards.

Taurus

You’re about to move into some extremely fortunate times on the income and work fronts, which could create some distractions over the coming weeks. It’s over the weekend that you’re able to work at developing the right balance between work and play, by tapping into your romantic passions, then holding onto that during your new working week.

Gemini

Venus, planet of love is spending her last weekend in direct motion in your sign until later next month and due to turn retrograde in just 3 days time, she’s asking you to stay in the moment. As Venus won’t progress any future and hasn’t yet turned retrograde there is no point looking too far ahead or looking back, with your only option being to stay in the moment.

Cancer

Because Pluto is the planet of change and revolution, his retrograde phase in your relationship sector is not a sightseeing trip, instead giving you a chance to change anything that isn’t working, especially those things revealed by hindsight. However, you can’t change what you can’t see, with a need to keep your head out of the sand.

Leo

When life is busy and there are demands on your time, it is easy to let your weekends be eaten up without getting a chance to focus on what’s really important. This is a day where your relationships need to come first, but it’s less about the quantity of time you spend together and more about the quality of that time.

Virgo

You’re about to head into some fairly intense relationship days, with a need for some attitude reality checks beforehand. Choose to move forward with the communication lines open and choose to see any relationship pressure as a chance for a breakthrough and to create something more authentic. Pretence is not an option.

Libra

During the Moon’s final hours in your romantic sector tap into the romantic vibes in the air and get an intuitive read on your heart, for this is the only point you’ll get all month to really delve deep. With a busy and intense working week waiting for you on the other side of the weekend, hold onto and make the most of the romantic and playful vibes in the air.

Scorpio

It’s because your relationships have been on such long and at times challenging journeys, that you’re able to appreciate and sense that things really are coming together. By this time next month even Jupiter will be gone from your relationship sector and it’s time now to bring things home.

Sagittarius

As Venus, planet of love spends her last weekend in direct motion in your relationship sector, before turning retrograde in just 3 days time, you’re able to benefit from the fact that the Moon is in your communication sector. This gives you a chance to slow down and make both your relationships and communication a priority today.

Capricorn

Until now you’ve been waiting for more things to fall into place before you could give lucky romantic forces your all, but that’s no longer the case. All the resources you need are now at hand and it’s time to put as much faith in the love gods as they’re putting in you. Find out first hand just how lucky in love you are, by holding nothing back.

Aquarius

As Venus, planet of love spends her last weekend in direct motion in your romantic sector, before turning retrograde in just 3 days time, she’s come to a near standstill, asking you to do the same. With old doors not yet open and Venus not venturing too much further, this leaves you no other option but to stay in the moment.

Pisces

Tomorrow Mars, warrior planet of the cosmos and Chiron, planet of healing will go head to head, creating yet another round of relationship pressure. Yet as you near the final hurdle you have to cross, having so many advantages on the communication front is already turning this into an opportunity, especially for a breakthrough.

Your Daily Chinese Horoscopes for Sunday, May 13th

Rabbit

You and your partner may disagree about a health or lifestyle issue. You should be careful to analyze your reactions right now – you could react from the wrong space and are strongly resisting a change that would really be in your own best interest.

Dragon

Dramatic changes are coming in your love life as a result of changing values, changes in friendships, or changes in your beliefs about “right and wrong”. You may be growing toward a better understanding, or are growing apart from someone who has chosen to stay frozen in the past.

Snake

A friend is going to ask you to commit to some kind of personal sacrifice on their behalf, but you have other priorities, most likely a family member who is in need of emotional support. They may not realize that their own prejudices are getting in the way of clear insight.

Horse

Whether you are traveling around the world or across town, be careful to take extra time and care when you are driving. If you have medical issues, ensure that you are carrying any medicine you might need and that any medical paperwork is filled out in advance.

Sheep

This is not the best day to try to gamble on that lucky streak you have had lately. Save or store your wins for a better day. Quit while you’re ahead. Don’t listen to that nagging little voice that is telling you to get out right now and spend, spend spend.

Monkey

With all the good news you got last week it may seem like a good thing for you to stay humble – but that’s no fun! You definitely will be looking at your personal and spiritual values and beliefs – but try to cut yourself some slack. Count your blessings.

Rooster

Your intuition will not be as sharp as it seems today. Be careful before making any sudden changes to plans, and avoid impulsive spending. You especially want to be careful to avoid large purchases that are hard to exchange or return later on. There is “buyer’s remorse” in your chart.

Dog

Friends and companions bring challenges as well as opportunities right now. If you can keep things light, then things go well, especially when art or music is in the picture. But when the topic turns to global politics, you might want to dive for cover.

Pig

If you have an argument with your spouse today it is likely to be about career, social status or your ambitions. You’ll either be labeled completely lazy or a workaholic. The truth lies in the middle somewhere, but emotions are high and reason is absent today.

Rat

You may have to make some significant changes to some upcoming travel plans. You may have overlooked some critical scheduling conflict, or set yourself up for a confrontation with a rather stodgy official of some kind. Be patient and prepared to be flexible.

Ox

Finances are a sore spot in your chart right now. It is all you can do to make ends meet, and you are burning the candle at both ends. Your attitudes towards money, values, debts and finances are undergoing powerful changes. Push yourself, you can overcome the challenges.

Tiger

You may be disappointed when a romantic attraction does not go your way, but it may prove to be a blessing in disguise. You may not get the attention from the one you wanted at first, but that will leave room for someone or something much better to come into your life.

the daily humorscopes for sunday, may 13th

the daily humorscope 

Sunday, May 13, 2012

 
Aries (March 21 – April 19)
Not only is this a good day to throw a tantrum, but there’s a good chance that you might set a new distance record!
Taurus (April 20 – May 20)
Good day to begin that toothpick sculpture you’ve been thinking of. You’ll be the only private individual (aside from Martha Stewart) who orders toothpicks by the case. Martha goes through several boxes just sticking breakfast together, I hear.
Gemini (May 21 – June 20)
This will be “one of those days”, I’m afraid. The person next to you on the bus will have taken one of those nitroglycerin capsules for his heart condition, and will be bending over to pick up a newspaper, just as the bus hits a big pothole…
Cancer (June 21 – July 22)
Today you will find yourself boldly charging through life. That can actually get you in trouble, though, so you should really attempt to pay with cash.
Leo (July 23 – August 22)
Today you will be overcome with a sudden strong urge to learn to play a wooden flute while cavorting around in the forest. I recommend you treat those separately at first. You’ll find what you need under “Music, Instruction” and under “Cavorting, Instruction.” Don’t get talked into buying any cavorting supplies, though — they’re really only needed by professionals.
Virgo (August 23 – September 22)
Today you will discover that there is nothing more silly than a silly laugh. A silly nose wiggle ranks pretty highly, though.
Libra (September 23 – October 22)
As a joke, you will put a remote controlled monster under someone’s bed. That will be really funny, although perhaps not quite as funny as when they put a real monster under yours.
Scorpio (October 23 – November 21)
Excellent day to come up with new theories to explain the universe around you. Remember: the simplest explanation is usually the best. For example, most physicists today subscribe to the “Big Band” theory of the creation of the universe. I have an alternate theory that I prefer, which I call “Tuba Ensemble”.
Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21)
Everyone you work with will bring Kim Chee for lunch, today. They’re just doing it to be difficult.
Capricorn (December 22 – January 20)
You will discover a new “5th law” of Thermodynamics. The first law says “you can’t win”. The second law says “you can’t break even”. The 5th law, however, says “never draw to an inside straight”.
Aquarius (January 21 – February 18)
In one of those amusing misunderstandings that often happen due to bad phone connections, you will show up to go on a hike with something unexpected. If you stop and think about it, you’ll realise that it isn’t that likely someone would say “It may be cold, so be sure to bring a goat.”
Pisces (February 19 – March 20)
This week you will feel like corn. Just not like having any.

RITUAL TO FIND YOUR SPIRIT GUIDE

RITUAL TO FIND YOUR SPIRIT GUIDE

Items Needed
Altar Candle
Day Candle (Monday-white, Tuesday-red, Wednesday-purple, Thursday-blue,
Friday-green, Saturday-black, Sunday-yellow)
Offertory Candles – 3 Violet Candles
3 White Candles

Tools
Athame to inscribe candles
Crystal ball or clear glass of water

Incense
anise, cardamom, and coriander.

Oil
jasmine, lemon, rose and sandalwood

Timing
Best done during the Mercury hour of the day, although any hour should work.
Any moon phase is appropriate.

Preparation
Breathe deeply and build a ball of protective light around you. While soaking
in your ritual bath, meditate on the whole ritual: the steps you will take
and what you wish to say to your spirit guide when you make contact.

Ritual
Enter the circle in the Hour of Mercury. Light the incense. With the oil,
dress the Altar Candle and the Day candle while concentrating on the purpose
of the ritual. Light your Altar Candle and Day Candle and state your intent:

I am here to make contact with my Spirit Guide, and to acknowledge him or
her.

With your Athame, inscribe Violet Candle #1 with the word “Spirit.” Dress it
with oil. Light the Violet Candle #1, direct your energies into it and say:

Here do I light the first Lamp of Spirit.
May its light reach out across the barriers from this world to the next.
May it make contact with that World of Spirit into which we will eventually
enter.

Take your censer or incense wand and swing it around, sensing the whole area
around the altar while rhythmically repeating the word “Merge” and building
up energy to focus. Replace the censer and pick up Violet Candle #2.

Inscribe it with the word “Spirit” and dress it with oil. Put it back on the
altar, light it and say:

Here do I light the second Lamp of Spirit.
May its light also reach out across the barriers from this world to the next?
May it make contact with that World of Spirit and help spread the light,
illuminating the passageway between our worlds.

Again take the censer or incense wand and sense the entire area around while
chanting the word “Merge.” Build up your energy to focus. Take Violet Candle
#3, inscribe it with the word “Spirit,” dress it with oil, charge with your
energy, light it and say:

Here do I light the third Lamp of Spirit.
May the light from these three lamps blend and grow, dispelling all darkness
and lighting the way that my Spirit Guide may come to me and speak with me
here today.

Inscribe the three white candles with the word “Truth” and anoint each candle
with oil. Light the three candles in the order of 1, 2, 3, and say:

Here do I build Truth.

As these candles burn throughout this ritual, their power generating nothing
but truth in all that transpires between this world and the next. Through
these candles there is truth in all communications that come to me. Again
cense the altar area while chanting “Merge.” Replace the censer and continue
chanting. Sit comfortably while chanting, and gaze into the crystal ball, or
the clear glass of water. Continue chanting until you feel it is right to let
the chant taper off. Continue to quietly look into the crystal ball or glass,
not trying to picture anything. Keep your mind blank, so whatever comes will
appear and will come in it’s own free will. Gaze into the center of the
crystal, there is no need to try not to blink. Look into the crystal and
blink naturally. Try not to notice anything in your peripheral vision, just
the center of the crystal. Eventually a face or figure will appear. This may
take a long time, or it may appear almost immediately. If it doesn’t come at
all within approximately 20 minutes, abandon this attempt, extinguish the
candles in the order in which they were lit, leave the altar set up, and try
this ritual again in three days.

You should have results within a month at most. When a figure does appear,
ask if he/she is your Spirit Guide. You will hear an answer, you may not hear
it out loud, or even see the figures lips move, but you will be aware of the
answer. This is how most conversations will proceed. You will ask your
questions mentally (or out loud) and the answer will be clear inside your
mind. Ask if you have more than one Spirit Guide. If yes, ask them to appear
also. You may ask anything you wish to know, but it is better to establish a
connection first where your Spirit Guide may appear to you at any time, or at
specific times, so that you can converse with any other spirits through
him/her. When you have finished speaking with your guide, thank him/her, then
sit for a moment with your eyes closed, meditating on all that you have
learned. Extinguish the candles in reverse order to clear the circle.

WHAT CAN ANIMAL GUIDES DO– AND HOW DO I WORK WITH THEM????

WHAT CAN ANIMAL GUIDES DO– AND HOW DO I WORK WITH THEM????

Animal guides can help you in many areas of you life whether they are of the
physical or astral plane.

They can help focus and raise the energy of a ritual or magickal circle.

They can protect you in your dreams, meditations and quests, as well as in the real world.

They can teach you how to take on their abilities through shapeshifting.

They can help you learn to take yourself less seriously (or more so if needed).

A guide can be your friend, confidant, sister, brother, teacher… They can be
playful, loving, protective and supportive. They will change and grow with you throughout your life.

You work with spirit guides the same way you work with anyone else, ask them for help, advice, or support, whatever you need. They will decide if they will do what you ask.

If it is for the best they will almost always help.

To talk with a guide, do a visualization in which you call to them.

They will come if they choose.

If they do not, try again later or try to work out the problem on your own.

If your guide is a physical one just talk with it. It will help if it chooses.

Talk with your guide. Ask it to teach you. Get to know your guide as you would get to know any close friend. Spend time with it.

You will learn how to work with it as you get to know each other, as you learn to become a team and understand each others needs.

Just remember to always, always, treat your guide with respect and gratitude for the help it gives.

DO YOU KNOW YOUR ANIMAL TOTEMS?

DO YOU KNOW YOUR ANIMAL TOTEMS?
The following is from Animal Speak by Ted Andrews

Begin the process of discovering your animal totems by examining the animals you have been most interested in & the times of your life that interest was piqued. Use the following questions to help determine which animals are probably totems to you in your life.

1. Which animal or bird has always fascinated you? (We are drawn to that which most resonates with us. Those animals which fascinate us have something to teach us.)

2. When you visit the zoo, which animal do you wish to visit the most or first?(esp. children)

3. What animal(s) do you see most frequently when you are out in nature? Have you had encounters with animals in the wild? (The animals we encounter, in their city environments or in the wild, have significance for us. We can learn from them, even if only about survival within that environment.)

4. Of all the animals in the world, which are you most interested in now? (Our interests in animals change. Yes, we usually have one or two that are lifetime, power animals, but others become prominent when there is something importance or specific to teach us.)

5. What animal most frightens you? (That which we fear the most is often
something we must learn to come to terms with. When we do that, it then becomes a power. Some shamans believe that fears will take the shape of animals, and only when we confront them without fear do their powers/medicine work for us instead of against us. Such an animal become a shadow totem.)

6. Have you ever been bitten or attacked by an animal? (Historically, if a
shaman survived an attack, it was believed that the animal was the shaman’s
spirit totem and the attack was the totem’s way of testing the shaman’s ability to handle the power.)

7. Do you have dreams with animals in them or are there animal dreams you have never forgotten? (This is especially important if the dreams are recurring or if at least the animal image in the dream is a recurring one. Children often dream of animals, & attention should be given to these animals. They will often reflect specific spirit totems of the child.)

Eagle

Eagles hunt with sight and sound, seeing eight times greater than humans because their eyes are closer to the front of their head. Their incredible sight and hearing makes them good at feeding themselves from the land while flying at great heights. They use their feathers as little winglets to reduce turbulence which increases lift. Eagles use there back talons to kill small prey while using their front three to grasp the prey securely. Their sharp beaks cut and tear while using their strong jaw muscles to crush their prey. Both males and females incubate the eggs. If humans encroach on Eagles’ nests or touch them the Eagle will likely abandon it.

Ducks

Ducks are the largest and most diverse group of waterfowl. Frequently males and females are colored differently, the males have brighter plumes, and have different vocal sounds. They prefer being in places where they are comfortable and will return to those places. They have a strong sense of community and are social.
Duck will remind us we sometimes need to return to the parts of ourselves that need to feel safe and comfortable. It also teaches us to be graceful when handling our emotions. Duck teaches us to drink sustenance from the waters of life.

Dragonfly

Dragonfly eggs are laid within their territory near the water. Once hatched, these nymphs will live nearly two years on the bottom of streams and ponds. As they reach adulthood an amazing thing occurs, they transform into dragonflies and ascend to the air. In the air, they travel with wings that sparkle with spectacular colors by reflecting and refracting light and other colors. No insect or bird can maneuver as well as a dragonfly. Flying up to 30 mph, they will twist, turn, move up and down, fly backwards, even change directions instantaneously and still will spot movement 40 feet away.
The power of Dragonfly lies in its ability to see around things by looking from different angles. Using its ability to transform colors and lights by reflecting and refracting them, Dragonfly shows us that life, like light, can bend, shift, and adapt in various ways, making life’s appearance never be what it appears to be. Dragonfly’s magic shows us to see through life’s illusions and find our true vision. It calls us to transform within our lives and reminds us to feel deeply so we will have the compassion necessary to help ourselves and others.

Dolphin

Dolphin is a beautiful, playful animal who’s freedom wanders. It lives in water but is actually a mammal that needs to breath air. It breathes air through a single nostril also known as a blowhole located on top of its head. Dolphin emerges from the water with a short explosive exhalation. Normally it reaches the surface every two minutes for air, but is capable of holding its breath for several minutes when making rapid deep dives. Dolphin is dependent on two totally different worlds.

Dolphin comes when we need to break emotional barriers and communicate truth. Dolphin will then guide us to find harmony by moving forward with our life.

Deer

Deer is a keen observer, enabled to see well in low lighting and its sensitive hearing allows it to perceive a twig snap in the distance. For the first few days of life a fawn hardly moves, hidden by the color of its coat from predators. Once it can stand, it follows its mother around to learn how to survive. The graceful movement and gentle nature of these creatures show us the innocence of nature. Deer is a messenger of serenity, can see between shadows and hear what isn’t being said. Deer teaches us to maintain our innocence and gentleness so we can share our
open heartedness with others.

Coyote

Coyotes, also known as the Desert Wolf, are recognizable by their thick bushy tail, pointy nose, and ears. In the winter their coat grows thick to protect them from the harsh weather. They can run up to 30 mph, and their call will be heard up to 3 miles. Coyotes can live in urban areas as long as food and shelter is available. They form loose family groups which form for short periods of time then break apart, depending on the food supply. This large group formation will work together to catch deer. Normally coyotes hunt alone or in pairs. In this situation, one may intentionally chase small prey into the jaws of another coyote so they both can share a meal. A good way to tell a coyote apart from a wolf is its tail, which they carry low while the others carry their tails high.
Coyote teaches us to laugh at our mistakes so we won’t get mired in the pain of life’s lessons. Coyote comes into our lives when we need to understand the balance of wisdom and foolishness.

Cougar

This cat goes by several names including Mountain Lion, Panther, and Puma. They are solitary cats who, unlike other cat species, are active during the day. They are also the most widely distributed cats in the Americas. These elusive hunters will pounce on their prey with a strong short burst of energy after studying its movements, never hesitating, showing none of its movement is wasted.
Cougar spirit will teach us to assert ourselves, and take control of our life so we can become leaders. Cougar’s graceful swiftness shows us how to understand the natural flow of our environment and move into a position of leadership.

Butterfly

Butterfly spends the first part of its life crawling the earth, before metamorphosis leads it to spin a home for stasis (known as a cocoon). After transforming, Butterfly is reborn as various beautiful colored winged creatures of the air.

This insect is extremely sensitive to the Harmony of Earth, and is the first creature to leave a damaged ecology. Butterfly’s graceful dancing-like appearance on flowers reminds us to find the joy in nature and make it a part of our life.

Butterfly enters our life as a messenger for change. If it comes to us hurt or ill, Butterfly asks us to stop keeping our joy at bay. It may take some time being alone with ourselves to listen to Butterfly’s gentle requests that we allow the natural transformation of things in our lives.

Buffalo

Buffalo’s humped shoulders and horns indicate stored-up power. When threatened, buffalo create a defensive circle in which cows encircle the calves, and bulls encircle the cows. When provoked, buffalo can be unpredictably dangerous.

The Plains Indians hold the buffalo sacred. Tribes would offer prayers of gratitude both before a hunt and after a buffalo was killed to honor the spirit of the animal that provided them meat, shelter, and clothing.

Buffalo reminds us to give thanks for what we have, and pay
tribute to the sacrifice of life that allows us to survive. It comes to teach us to reconnect with the Earth, respect all life, and honor our own divine essence.

Bees

The most familiar bee is the bumblebee which has a large hairy body, and a long reddish hairy tongue to soak up nectar. On their hind legs, pollen sticks to the combs and brushes located on their body which is then stored in a pollen basket otherwise known as a honeystomach. To fill this sack a bee must suck nectar from 60 flowers.

The males are known as drones and play no part in the organization of the colony. It is the queen and workers (their daughters) which create the complex social structures they live in.

These bees may have highly specialized functions such as defense, food collection, food storage, or reproduction.

Bee shows us we can accomplish what seems impossible by having dedication and working hard. It asks us to pursue our dreams with incredible focus and fertilize our aspirations. Bee teaches us to cooperate with others who have similar goals so we can learn how to help each other.