Your Ancient Symbol Card for Oct. 27th is The Green Man

Your Ancient Symbol Card for Today

The Green Man

Where the Green Man appears the mystery and untamed energy of nature abounds. The Green Man indicates the presence of choices and powers that have not been muted by civilization. The Green Man represents the antithesis of technology and industrialization. He offers primal energies veiled in mystery and derived from the spirit of nature in its purest form.

As a daily card, The Green Man indicates you are in a place where you will be well served by exploring your place in the natural world. At the moment the wisdom that will serve you best cannot be found in books or on talk shows or extracted from today’s headlines. What’s called for is an affirmation of your place in the natural world.

Let’s Talk Witch – The People and Pets In Your Home

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The People and Pets In Your Home

The people and pets who share your living space contribute to the overall feeling texture of your home. If you have a roommate or someone else in your home with whom you don’t get along or who is mostly negative, then you need to take measures to rid the rooms of that negativity. This may call for a sage smudging at a regular intervals: Do so once a week for a month, then once a month after. Other remedial adjustments might be in order. You can include a piece of onyx or burn a black candle in or near the person’s room to absorb the negative energy. If you burn a black candle, let it burn all the way down, then toss it out. You don’t have to throw out the onyx; just bathe it in sea water (or water with some sea salt in it if you don’t live near an ocean) and then set it in the sun for a few minutes to charge it.

If you have a pet who is hostile toward you or other people, you might try a little feng shui magick. Locate the family area of your home. This area lies in the eastern part of the house or, in the Western feng shui, the farthest left-hand side of your home when you stand inside your front door. Add a tabletop fountain to the family area, a couple of jade plants and something black. Don’t forget to give your pet plenty of love.

If you have children, the best area in feng shui lies in the western part of the house or, if you’re standing in the front door, directly opposite the family area. If your kids are hostile or angry, use anything yellow in that area–flowers(with round leaves), curtains, linen, quilts, whatever feels right. Symbols for children and creativity are also good here, as are music, bells, and lights.

Once the negativity in the children’s area is purged, put a white crystal and white flowers somewhere in the room. It helps to balance emotions.

 

Daily Feng Shui News for Oct. 25th – ‘Tourmaline’

 

The birthstone most associated with October is the tourmaline. An old Egyptian legend tells how this stone, when making the trip from the heart of the earth up to the sun, traveled along a rainbow, collecting all the colors along the way. No matter the color, all tourmaline are said to increase self-confidence while neutralizing negative energies as well. Tourmaline is also believed to dispel fear, relieve grief and aid in concentration and communications. I think that you’ll agree that this surely is one precious gem!

 

By Ellen Whitehurst for Astrology.com

 

Daily Feng Shui News for Oct. 23 – ‘TV Talk Show Host Day’

Here’s another day close to my own heart and ambitions. It’s ‘TV Talk Show Host Day’ and I’d like to share a Feng Shui cure that I enact whenever I want a host or producer to want to book me on their show. I will take an image of the host and on the back I will write the date that I want to be on their show in red ink. I then position that image in my ‘Fame’ area and every day I spend time visualizing how my guest appearance will go when I am called to be on the show. I even visualize how happy I will be after I hang up the line from the call. This has never failed to manifest some sort of media for me. Even it it’s not the original show I was hoping for, it’s always something better. Let’s call this one big dreams for the small screen.

By Ellen Whitehurst for Astrology.com

Your Ancient Symbol Card for October 23 is The Green Man

Your Ancient Symbol Card for Today

The Green Man

Where the Green Man appears the mystery and untamed energy of nature abounds. The Green Man indicates the presence of choices and powers that have not been muted by civilization. The Green Man represents the antithesis of technology and industrialization. He offers primal energies veiled in mystery and derived from the spirit of nature in its purest form.

As a daily card, The Green Man indicates you are in a place where you will be well served by exploring your place in the natural world. At the moment the wisdom that will serve you best cannot be found in books or on talk shows or extracted from today’s headlines. What’s called for is an affirmation of your place in the natural world.

The Witches Spell for October 23 – ‘White Light Ritual’

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WHITE LIGHT RITUAL

 

Best time to do this spell:

In the early morning-to make the spell even stronger – do it as the sunshine’s on you!

As the sun rises in the morning – get somewhere it can shine on you (even laying in bed is okay for this one!) as you feel the warmth of the sun shining on you – see in your mind’s eye a bright light – pure and white surrounding you and outlining your body -leaving NO openings = completely surrounding you in light and warmth (you will FEEL it too) as you surround yourself in this warm and wonderful light say to yourself out loud or merely in your head

“May the white light surround me

and protect me from all harm

this is my WILL so MOTE it be.”

 

Then simply go about your day – you can also send white light to others by simply surrounding them with white light in your mind’s eye and substituting the person’s name for me in the incantation above. you will notice immediately a change – as you walk past – people will try to catch your eye and smile – try it – it works!  You may do this as often as you like !

Let’s Talk Witch – Gem And Stones

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Let’s Talk Witch – Gem And Stones

From ancient times to civilized times precious and semi-precious stones have always held our fascination. Their beauty is natural and everlasting. Natural Magickians have recognized this beauty and fascination and have used stones in their magick for centuries. They give an extra push of energy onto your desired goal.

Stones are used for many purposes including Meditation, Divination, Healing, magickal oil blends or even crushed in some incense recipes. All gems,stones, crystals hold their own energies or “vibrations”. They respond instantly to the expressed intent of your will. Gem properties are easy for a beginner to master and help build both self confidence and self esteem. There are no rules that you must follow and don’t let anyone tell you that there is! It is a personal journey within yourself and you can learn to use stones in just the right way for you.

You can carry them, burn them, add them to your favorite magickal oil blend, place them around the home, in the car, at the office , anywhere you feel the energies are wanted. We ourselves are still learning all about the wonderous ways of gems and stones. A journey that we hope will never end! Stones predate humans by centuries and can show us our true selves because of that fact. They are symbols for forces far beyond words or cold-hard facts. They are there to show us what is already there within and around ourselves.

There are various uses for the beautiful stones. It is up to you how they are used. This is a mystical journey, no magick is needed other than that of your possession of whichever stone you choose. Get to know each stones properties, learn how these stones can enrich both your personal and spiritual life in unlimited wondrous ways.

CHOOSING YOUR GEMSTONE

One of the most often asked questions about gemstone magick is:
“How do I choose my stone/gem/crystal?”

And the most common answer is:
“Don’t worry. They choose you”

As stated before, stones and gems have their own particular vibration and energy. When you are really serious about finding your stone you will understand this. If you have a chance to plunge your hand into a large barrel of different stones, you will know which ones just “feel” right. Some people experience a feeling of heat when holding a certain stone, others say they feel happy or safe when holding a certain stone. Sometimes its: “It just caught my eye and no matter what I did I couldn’t get it out of my mind.” That’s what is meant by a stone finding you.

A good start in finding the right stone is if you have a goal in mind for the stone. Since there are such a great number of stones available this helps limit your choices. Know the properties of each stone and you will find the one you are looking for; the right shade and shape will become important to you too.

If there is no goal in mind, you just want or need a “special little stone”, see which one jumps out at you, or pass your hand over several stones and feel the energy that comes to you. Try meditating for the right one. Again, knowing the properties of stones may help you in this. The different shapes of the stones will be an important factor in choosing your stones.

ROUND

Round shaped gems and stones are a symbol of magick and its workings. The means for the opening of psychic awareness and spirituality. Receptive to all powers. Used in all attraction wishes such as love, money and spirituality.

SQUARE

Square shaped stones are masculine in nature and generally considered to be used for building or creating something new or altering something old. A form of stability and endurance.

TRIANGULAR

Triangles are a sign of the three points of humankind; the mind, body and spirit. Able to discern between the four elements. Used primarily for repelling and neutralizing negativity, and for gathering and releasing of all the energies for your intended desire.

PEAR

Pear shapes are a combination of both the round and triangle. Used primarily in associations with the element of Water, it is both receptive and projective. A great shape for balancing of emotions or any wish dealing with psychism or Faerie Magick.

ROD

Rod shaped or Wand shaped are a sign of masculinity. Also commonly referred to as “phallic”. Projective energies, used primarily for a wish for someone, for the intent to be projected towards another.

 

The Daily Motivator for Oct. 22nd – Energy and drive

Energy and drive

Just about any technique, process or system can lead to success or to  failure. What matters most is not the technique, but the energy and drive you  put into it.

If you feel you’re stuck in a hopeless situation, you’ll remain stuck as long  as you feel that way. As soon as you become enthusiastic about the opportunities  for improvement, you’ll begin to make those improvements.

In every kind of endeavor, there are those who succeed spectacularly and  those who barely get by. The difference is not in the occupation, but in  attitude, commitment and level of energy.

There are people who make it their business to make a positive difference in  life. Choosing each day to be one of those people will give you a continuing  supply of amazingly effective energy.

Even though you may not be in an ideal situation, you can create an ideal  outcome. Use the day, use the moment, use the encounter, use the circumstance to  lift the world higher.

With an attitude of generosity and a commitment to excellence, every day can  be a great day. Decide to give real, meaningful value to life right now, and  feel the positive energy begin

Ralph Marston

The Daily Motivator

Daily OM for Oct. 22nd – You Deserve to Have Your Dreams Come True

You Deserve to Have Your Dreams Come True

Personal Power

by Madisyn Taylor

Power is not about exerting our will over others, it is about being in complete truth with yourself.

Many of us have do not understand what personal power means. We have been given the false notion that power is bad—that it is something we use to exert our will upon others. In fact, when our personal power is intact, we are neither overbearing nor meek. We have a clear sense of our strength and the impact we can have on others. This actually enables us to be more sensitive. Personal power is what permits us to work on behalf of our dreams and desires. It allows us to realize that we are worthy and deserve to be heard. In addition, our personal power lets us extend the respect we know that we deserve to the people around us. There is no reason to be afraid or ashamed of fully owning your power.

In the chakra system, the solar plexus is the seat of personal power. One way to evaluate your sense of power is to breathe into this part of the body. If it feels tight or nervous, it is an indication that you may not be fully expressing your power. You can heal this imbalance by expanding the area of the solar plexus with your breath. You can also visualize a bright yellow sun in this part of your body. Allow its heat to melt any tension, and let its light dissolve any darkness or heaviness. Repeating this exercise on a regular basis can restore and rejuvenate your sense of power.

Another way to nurture your personal power is to honor your dreams and desires by making concrete plans to manifest them in the world. Start by making a list of things you want, and let yourself think big. Choose one goal from the list and commit to bringing it to fruition. In addition, break the goal into tasks that you can work on each day. Know that you deserve to have your dreams come true and that you have the power to bring them into being.

The Daily OM

Spell Working

SPELL WORKING

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

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

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

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

For example:

Aries/action – enthusiasm

Taurus/renewal – sensuality

Gemini/communication – curiosity

Cancer/emotion – nurturing

Leo/vitality – determined

Virgo/organizing – studious

Libra/balance – cooperation

Scorpio/sexual – philosophical

Sagitarius/strength – humour

Capricorn/authority – ambitious

Aquarius/innovation – social

Pisces/sensitivity – idealistic.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Ellen Whitehurst for Astrology.com

8 Ways to Deal With Mercury Retrograde in Scorpio

8 Ways to Deal With Mercury Retrograde in Scorpio

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

What does this aspect mean?

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

Key Themes

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

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

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

Mercury Retrograde in Scorpio Checklist

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

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

Astrology Answers

Let’s Talk Witch – Divination With The Pendulum

Faerie-Guardians

Let’s Talk Witch – Divination With The Pendulum

I will be the first to admit it. When I am in a hurry and want to know something, I reach for my pendulum. I know most people associate the use of pendulums with dowsing as a way of searching for water. But, of course, that is only one use of the pendulum. When you use a pendulum for the purpose of divination, you’re searching for answers hidden within yourself.

A pendulum consists of a small weight – a crystal or some other stone, for instance – hung from a short chain or ribbon. You hold the chain/ribbon, letting the pendulum dangle at the end of it, while you ask a simple question. The pendulum responds by swinging in a direction predetermined to mean either yes or no.

A pendulum isn’t capable of handling complex questions, but it can be used to answer any yes or no question. Most of the time, a pendulum will swing from side to side to let you know that the answer to your question is no. A backward and forward movement generally means yes. However, it’s a good idea to ask your pendulum aloud which direction will indicate yes and which will indicate no.

Sometimes the pendulum swings in a diagonal line. This can mean the matter is uncertain or that your question can’t be answered at this time. You might want to try asking later. If the pendulum doesn’t move, try asking a different question or phrase the question in a different manner. If your pendulum circles in a clockwise direction, it usually means the situation you’re asking about is favorable. If the pendulum moves in a counterclockwise circle, conditions seem unfavorable.

You can use a pendulum to dowse for just about anything, from buried treasure to the best spot to drill a well. You can dowse an area to find a lost object. You can dowse a house or apartment to see if it’s right for you. Or dowse the land to determine the  best place to build a home, business, shrine, garden, etc.

You can even dowse a map. This technique is great if you’re thinking about taking a trip or looking for a new place to live. Hold the pendulum over a map of an area that interests you and ask, “Is this the place?” If the response is no, try another area. Keep at it until the pendulum says yes.

Want to try something cool with your pendulum? When you purchase a candle from a store or buy a Craft item over the internet this is great to do. I always wonder if the item has any residue left over from its maker. Let’s say I just bought a new candle from the store. I bring it home, before I ever put it on my altar, I get my pendulum. Now I take the pendulum and hold it over the candle. If the candle has picked up any past residue the pendulum will start to swing outwards in a circle. This tells me that the candle does have past residue and I must take care in cleansing it. It the pendulum does not move, it has no past reside and I can cleanse as normal. But you can do this with any Craft item you purchase and it will work the same.

For such a small Craft tool, you will be amazed at all the things a pendulum can tell you can do for you.

Today’s Tarot Card for October 20th is The Hanged Man

The Hanged Man

Sunday, Oct 20th, 2013

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Traditionally, the card known as the Hanged Man usually indicates a lack of ability to help oneself through independent action. This energy is arrested and awaiting judgment. With this card, there is no avenue for the will to regain control until the situation has passed.

This represents a good time to be philosophical, to study and meditate upon the position you find yourself in, and form resolutions for the moment you become free again. Only those who possess wisdom, patience and optimism will be able to see through limitations, including possible humiliation, to grasp the inspiring lesson one can gain from such an experience.

The Origin of Magick

The Origin of Magick

Author:   Crick   

Have you ever wondered about the origins of magick?
By magick I am not referring to the stage tricks employed by various entertainers for our amusement, but rather the energy which numerous cultures and belief systems have tapped into in order to manifest their various objectives.

This universal gift is known by many different names depending on which culture/belief system one looks at. It may be known simply as magick, prayers, miracles, life force, juju, karma and so forth.
For the purpose of this article it will be referred to as energy.

Have you ever wondered if such energy was a latent presence here on earth prior to the arrival of humankind? Residing here as an ancient primordial force, which was patiently waiting for sentient beings to discover its presence and purpose.

And if it was here prior to the arrival of human beings, did it serve an active purpose in the shaping of life and/or the creation of events that allowed for said life to begin? Was this primordial energy an essence that was introduced by Deity by way of a direct involvement with what we know as life? Or was it a side effect that formed as a result of actions taken by Deity during the course of said activities?

Or perhaps it is a development that manifested itself with the advent of humans? Could it be that the life force that we know as spirit introduced this energy into the life process in order to provide us with opportunities to expand our spiritual awareness and/or connection with alternate realms?

And if this is the case, why do you suppose that such a tool for growth and/or communication is so under utilized?

I say this because in society today, folks tend to become less connected with the world around them and more absorbed with the part of the self that is influenced by the individual ego.

And if this is a tool for growth and communication, why is it that those folks who actually use this energy for this purpose are spurned and looked upon with suspicion and in many cases with outright disdain by others in society? Witchcraft in essence, embodies the concepts and principals in the use of such energy.

And yet the word “witch” brings out and runs the gauntlet of emotions and perceptions of humanity as a whole. And depending on which side of the fence one stands, a witch is either an evil and vile creature or a person who is in touch with and resonates with the universal energies of which magick is a major part of.

Where does this fear of the unknown come from?

Was the ego installed into our souls as a balance to such a powerful tool? Has the balance shifted too far to one side of our souls?

As humans we readily employ magick in our various endeavors, but do we really understand its origins and what exactly is that we are using as a tool? Could the ego be a safety mechanism that has been allowed for whatever reasons, to exceed its purpose?

In some cultures, magick known as prayers is used as a means of communication with Deity. Does magick have but one specific intended use? And if so, are all other uses of such energy but an abuse of its original intended use?

Within these same cultures, when an event that is normally beyond the capacity of mere mortals, occurs, it is called a miracle.

Are these so called miracles really but a form of the same energy that others would call magick? Can we as humans in fact manifest these miracles by employing this energy? Or should such manifestations be the sole province of deity?

And while we are on the subject, does this energy have a shelf life?

Does it become stronger with use, opening even more avenues of discovery and power as one venture along the path, or does it weaken from non-use and/or the cultural disbelief in such a power?

Or is it simply a neutral tool offered by the powers to be, with many different attachments waiting to be realized by humanity.

Regardless of what name we call this energy or by what concept we use to identify with it, this gift has surpassed all boundaries of cultural, religious and societal beliefs. It is found in all aspects and fiber of this existence that we call life. It is a dominant force, often in a passive way, in basically everything that we do as humans. As such we may most likely only achieve but a peripheral understanding of such a complicated and diverse force.

Perhaps one day when we become as one with deity, a more comprehensive understanding of such a gift will be made known to us. But until such a revelation is proffered by the powers that be, we should always strive to understand as much as we are able to in order to effectively use such energy in a way that is both constructive and meaningful to our personal lives and not only our personal lives but to those around us as well.

As members of a diverse community, we have a responsibility to contribute to the health and well being of our community. Because of the diversity of society, there will always be divergent views as to what this energy is or in how it is to be used. But at the end of the day, how we use such energy is still an individual decision.

There are certain pagans, in particular Wiccans, who believe that whatever energy is sent out will return to the originator threefold.
As a traditional witch, I personally am not so sure that such a transfer is so cut and dry, but in general such a concept is a good yardstick or learning curve to adhere to.

I personally do not consider myself a master for I do not believe in such a being outside of deity. Rather I am a student of life with lots of questions. For without such questions there are no answers.
And quite frankly I don’t have answers to many of the questions that I have asked here. What few answers I may have are based upon my personal life experiences.

As pagans we are each individual and thus should answer such questions as they pertain to each person in regards to ones own beliefs and practices…

Full Moon Lunar Eclipse in Aries Horoscopes

Full Moon Lunar Eclipse in Aries Horoscopes

Discover the energies at play for your sign during this fiery Full Moon…

Jeff Jawer   Jeff Jawer on the topics of lunar eclipse, horoscopes, full moon, eclipse, astrology, aries

This opposition of the independent Aries Moon and the accommodating Libra Sun on October 18, 2013, at 7:38 p.m. EDT, is a contrast between self-interest and putting others first. But it’s also a Lunar Eclipse that reminds us to let go of habits that keep us isolated from others. Going it alone is often commendable as a signal of individuality and strength, yet the message here is that while engaging with others adds complexity to our lives, there’s much more to be gained than lost.

Aries (March 21 – April 19)

This Full Moon in your fiery sign is a Lunar Eclipse that signals the need to take a step back, breathe deeply and turn down the heat of your emotions. Passion is a wonderful thing but pushing too hard and too fast is more likely to produce panic than progress. The counsel and support of an objective individual can help you to let go of an old habit that’s keeping you from heading in an exciting new direction.

Taurus (April 20 – May 20)

This impulsive Aries Full Moon lands in your 12th House of Secrets to arouse feelings of restlessness and rebellion. You may be in the mood to break some rules, which is both exciting and risky. If you’re going to ride this wave of boldness, do something original and creative that makes you feel stronger. Taking chances in a positive direction will produce less trouble and be more rewarding than being angry.

Gemini (May 21 – June 20)

The impatient Aries Full Moon eclipse could shake relationships with friends and colleagues. It lands in your 11th House of Groups where pressures could rise within organizations and among teammates. If you’re battling over an old issue, it’s time to change the playing field so that these habitual irritations finally end. Breaking patterns and, perhaps, ending alliances may be the way to do it.

Cancer (June 21 – July 22)

Professional matters could take a sudden turn with this fiery Aries Full Moon eclipse in your 10th House of Career. If you’ve pushed too hard or are burdened by new responsibilities, you may need to seek support in meeting them. Slowing down, changing directions and getting help from others will reduce stress. If you’re initiating a bold business move, making adjustments could be your key to success.

Leo (July 23 – Aug. 22)

Plans for travel could shift with this Full Moon eclipse in your 9th House of Faraway Places. Careful preparation is a good way to avoid complications. This part of your chart is also about learning and beliefs, so you might have to adjust your educational plans to reach your long-term goals. Going faster at this time could simply take you further off course, so slow down and think twice before making a major decision.

Virgo (Aug. 23 – Sept. 22)

This fiery Aries Full Moon eclipse lands in your 8th House of Deep Sharing where it can shake up a key personal or professional relationship. Don’t let overhyped enthusiasm lead to impulsive behavior because the outcome may be very far from your expectations. Reaching out and making connections is fine as long as you keep a flexible attitude that allows you to make adjustments or back out if it’s not working.

Libra (Sept. 23 – Oct. 22)

Keeping the peace in partnerships might not be easy with this fiery Aries Full Moon eclipse in your 7th House of Relationships. It could be that you’re getting bored with a personal or professional alliance that’s just not going anywhere. It’s worth standing and fighting, though, if you can find a fresh perspective on the situation. If not, it might be time to cut your losses and seek alliances with more amenable people.

Scorpio (Oct. 23 – Nov. 21)

Your work life could be altered with this restless Aries Full Moon eclipse in your 6th House of Employment. Pushing harder to get new projects off the ground may not get them going any faster. It’s smarter to develop your skills and refine systems to make them more efficient than to race ahead without building a solid foundation. Brilliant ideas may arise in an instant but turning them into reality takes time.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22 – Dec. 21)

Your desire to play and take risks tends to increase with this fiery Aries Full Moon in your 5th House of Romance and Self-Expression. But this Sun-Moon opposition is also a Lunar Eclipse, which can turn what sounds like a fun idea into one you’d rather avoid. The point is to be a little less impulsive in your pursuit of pleasure and in your professional presentations. Be sure to lay a solid foundation before taking a leap.

Capricorn (Dec. 22 – Jan. 19)

Domestic issues could heat up with this fiery Aries Full Moon in your 4th House of Home and Family. This event is also a Lunar Eclipse that’s more about cleaning up the past than pushing forward with new projects and plans. Dealing with unfinished personal business requires a fresh approach to be successful. Persistence may be one of your strengths, but innovation and adaptability will be more useful to you now.

Aquarius (Jan. 20 – Feb. 18)

Brilliant ideas could be popping with the innovative Aries Full Moon in your 3rd House of Information. Enthusiastic conversations might assure you that you’re on the right track. However, this event is also a Lunar Eclipse in the communications area of your chart that could lead to sudden changes of mind. Double check data and agreements with others to make sure that what’s been said before still holds true.

Pisces (Feb. 19 – March 20)

Money matters could change suddenly with this Aries Full Moon Lunar Eclipse in your 2nd House of Assets. This is not the ideal time to make some fast cash so be leery about any get rich quick schemes. On the plus side, this is an opportunity to clean up unfinished financial issues like reducing debt or other economic obligations. Going leaner in spending now will provide you with more resources when you need them later.

Spell Ingredients: Add a Large Dose of Reality

Spell Ingredients: Add a Large Dose of Reality

Author:   Solonius  

The first ingredient for any spell: A large dose of reality…. I mean, really, what do you expect? If all spells worked, wouldn’t humanity universally believe in witchcraft and magic and use it wholeheartedly? And to that extent wouldn’t worthy practitioners be a desired commodity? It is imperative for practitioners to separate their wishful and whimsical fantasies from serious study, contemplation, experimentation and application.

I believe that in order to further understand and define the super-natural, you first have to develop and have a thorough understanding of the natural. Any study of the Craft requires a greater amount of study into the realm of Laws of Nature and the Laws of Physics. After all, how can you define what is extra-ordinary, if you don’t even know the extent of what is ordinary?

The Laws of Physics are many, and the typical high-school student mostly understands the important ones. Opposites attract (by and large this only works for ions, kids, not people) , for every action there is an opposite and equal reaction, a body in motion tends to stay in motion unless acted upon by an outside force, for any change in state the by-product or causation is heat, etc. How can better knowing these things help us in a greater understanding of our spell work? Because all these things deal with Energy, and what is the Universe constructed of? Anyone…? Yes, Energy. And what does spell work deal with, when you boil it all down (pun intended) ? That’s right, Energy! Or more accurately, the transfer of energy. This is the First Insight that any practitioner should grasp. EVERYTHING is energy.

The Second Insight that we should understand, because it deals with both types of laws, is that Nature abhors a vacuum. That can be observed as simply as watching a balloon deflate. What do you discover with these phenomena? That Nature seeks a balance. This holds true for the Laws of Life and the Laws of Physics. The Universe naturally seeks equilibrium. Whether this is between hot/cold, high pressure/low pressure, too many predators and not enough prey, the Law stays the same. In the end, Nature will follow its Laws. You do know, though, that there is a defined and empirical Order to Things. You might not understand it fully, but you can be assured that an order exists by observing the smallest things in nature. This is crucial: Be observant to Nature and learn from it. Nature, in all its complexity, is still a system of doing things the easiest and least energy wasting way. Contemplate that reality for a while.

Where does this energy come from? Good question. Is it physical energy, which means connected to our current plane of existence? If that is so, then you would not be able to contain it for the energy you are talking about on the physical plane is electrical in nature, and you would become walking atom bombs if you gathered the energy required to perform some spells. So it can’t be a physical energy type.

Is it spiritual energy (which obviously means it is energy collected from higher levels of existence) that you are able to gather and use? The usual consensus is “Yes, it is.” This leads to the next set of questions. Can energy from higher levels of existence cause effects on a lower level of existence? How can if affect the energy in a lower existence, if the two existences are not on the same sphere? Can the physical things you do on a lower plane of existence affect what happens on a higher plane of existence? Is your mentality the only link between what you perceive as the physical plane and planes above what you can perceive with your physical senses? What is the extent of ‘Reality’, does it encompass ALL spheres of existence as ONE reality? Nature abhors a vacuum, so if As Above – So Below is a Law of Nature, does this mean that the energies of a higher plane seek a balance with the energies of a lower plane?

It is said that in the higher planes all things are possible if you only imagine it so. I further postulate that you must not only imagine it so, it must become your perceived REALITY. You must learn to tap into the energies of the higher planes, and effect permanent changes there, before any changes can happen in the physical plane. I’ve often said that there is an ocean of difference between Understanding and Knowing. Understanding is intellectual; it is accepting truth without necessarily going through all the motions to prove it. Knowing is visceral; it deals more with proof from the physical senses perceiving something as true. Ergo, to make a change here, you have to Know that you have made a change in higher realms first.

I postulate the reason for this is the hypothesis of ‘trickle down economics’ if you’d like. What does this mean? It means that in order to build a hut on the physical plane, you must first build a mansion in the higher planes. More complexly, Nature (meaning all planes of existence) seeks a balance. Nature also does things the absolute least energy-wasting way. I perceive that Nature does not easily permit energy to flow across planes of existence, even if they are in the same ‘Reality’. With As Above – So Below, you can see through a simple diagram of two superimposed triangles (one point up, the other point down) that the equilibrium point is above here and now (the bottom point) , yet below the ultimate expression (the top point) . As you move down from the ultimate expression (the open V) , less and less energy is transferred. Therefore you must have a firm and knowing conviction of what you wish to accomplish and see a clear and precise picture of it occurring, before you can hope to realize it happening.

Ironically, you should also have a wonderfully developed sense of imagination up to the point of believing in what seems impossible. Only with an active imagination can you build that mansion up to the point of actualization in the higher planes. This seems contradictory, but I don’t feel that it is. Without a firm mental picture of what you require to exist, can you hope to achieve your goal? You have to build that mansion brick by brick, through much mental exactness and conviction. This requires a great deal of imagination as well as focus. The constructed mansion should then remain in that higher plane once you have completed it. It’s there; there is no doubt of its existence in your mind. Every time you visit the higher realms your mansion is there, gleaming with its glory. Make it Reality. Does this mean that a mansion will magically appear here and now for you in the material plane? Probably not, but the single minded effort it took to imagine it as reality in the higher plane, could translate into the required motivation and focus to achieve it in the here and now. Here is something else to consider: owning the mansion is secondary to the method of achieving it.

I’ve used the visualization of a mansion to put a face to a concept. However, it holds true for any endeavor. What you wish to have happen is secondary to HOW you achieve its happening. You build the mental picture (higher plane reality) while simultaneously going through with the steps required to achieve the same results. This multiple avenue approach enlists all your faculties to achieve what your desire is. The greater the amount of energies enlisted to achieve your desire, the more energy the universe aligns with the outcome. Remember: the method of how you achieve your goal is primary to the goal itself.

As an example: There is a twice-weekly fervent prayer on many lips throughout the land: “Please let me win the lottery!” However, if you never go out to purchase a lottery ticket, the effort placed into your prayer was wasted, wasn’t it? The same occurs with your Craft. Creating a spell to achieve the end result is short sighted. You still have to do the work to realize your goal. There really are no shortcuts. I don’t mean using some elaborate spell either. I mean elaborate mental visualization, coupled with following a plan to achieve the goal. Each reinforces the other, making the possibility of achievement vastly greater. Ground that visualization into what Laws Nature has already demonstrated. This lends conviction and credibility to the achievement of the goal.

What would be the required steps to achieve that goal without using any Craft? Incorporate those steps into the visualization with your spell. Bypass any flights of fantasy; they require too much energy to maintain. After all is it easier for your mind to accept flying to work on a broomstick, or driving your car? Your mind will default to what it Knows is possible, and will automatically call B.S. to what is not. Even a child imagining flying around the house on a broomstick Knows that they are just pretending. So why kid yourself? The more reality you incorporate into your Craft, the greater the results you will receive.

*On a side note: I don’t think of the planes of Reality as floors in a skyscraper, nor are they in some cardinal Direction. They don’t exist as pages in a book, where you can turn a page and have a new reality. I think of it as a condensing of energy from zero (conversely the most dense) to the ultimate amount of energy. They are all concurrent and here and now, superimposed upon what we can only perceive as the physical plane due to the limitations of our senses. This energy is limitless to infinity. For infinity is provable as far as we have observed. Outside the edge of the growing globe of galaxies expanding outward, is vacuum. Forever. You could hypothetically travel so far away that this entire globe of expanding physical energy seems like nothing more than a single spec of brilliant light. However, the theory of infinity breaks down if you require a starting point. As Above – So Below… Infinity must go in BOTH ‘directions’ forever, or the concept breaks down.

I thank you for your time in reading this. I hope it gave you some food for contemplation, and in some way helps you with more success on your path.

Daily Feng Shui News for Oct. 17th – ‘Black Poetry Day’

On ‘Black Poetry Day’ I want to share an affirmation of sorts pulled from one of my favorite Langston Hughes poems. I kept this quote by my bed while growing up and even now I still refer to it, especially when I find myself getting a bit off kilter. Here is the poem ‘Motto’ in full: ‘I play it cool, I dig all jive, That’s the reason I stay alive. My motto, As I live and learn, Is dig and be dug in return.’ I dig this. I hope that you do too.

By Ellen Whitehurst for Astrology.com

Current Moon Phase for October 17th – Waxing Gibbous

Gibbous Moon

(waxing/98% of Full)

Distractions from the outside begin pressing into your world. Analysis is favored, reevaluating all the various factors you are dealing with. It’s a time to process information and effectively integrate your aims with the people in your immediate environment. This is a good time for organizing things. This Moon phase is suited for synthesis: coming up with a practical plan for getting from point A to point B. Adjustment is required.

A Full Moon Ritual For Energy

A Full Moon Ritual For Energy

A ritual to be used on the full moon to charge you up.

Use this ritual to bring specific lunar energies into your life. It should be carried out on the evening of the full moon or as close as you can. When calling for help to finish things left undone, but you can use the same method and much of the ritual for any of the full moons. You can also use this ritual without focusing on a specific full moon, for bringing plans to fruition or for an extra surge of energy when you need it to overcome an obstacle or seize an opportunity.
* Light a row of three silver candles, two of the same size for the waxing and waning phases and one much larger in the centre for the full moon.
* Light three sticks of jasmine or mimosa incense.
* Take a branch from a willow or any other tree or plant that grows near water, and on it hang three silver baubles; one should be very large. If you have no baubles, make discs from silver foil. Silver is the colour and metal of the Moon. Add nine tiny, silver-coloured bells, hung with thread.
* If the full moon is visible, use a hand mirror, silver if possible, to direct its light toward the tree or plant, saying:
Isis, mother of the Moon, your power this night bring to me soon.
Your silver radiance on me shine, your fertile light now strengthen mine.
Full moon, full glory, fill my heart, your loving wisdom to me impart.
Mother Isis, your child I call, uplift and guide me lest I fall.
(You can, instead of Isis, choose your own Moon goddess if you prefer or just invoke the Moon mother.)
* Now with silver thread or ribbons, bind the tree and the baubles with nine loose knots, saying: I bind your tree with tasks undone, Maiden, Mother, not yet Crone. I bind your strength my race not won, I take the power and it is done.
* Moon Magick *
*Pull all your knots undone, one after the other, and shake the tree, ring the bells and the energy is released.
* Leave the candles to burn down in a safe place. Leave the branch or plant still hung with silver baubles and bells throughout the week of the full moon and use the week to focus on your specific Moon theme. Sit, if you can, for a few minutes each night by silver candlelight and see yourself surrounded by an orb of silver light. Maximize the possibilities in your everyday world. You can adapt the words to suit the different months and, if you wish, rest an appropriate symbol in the branch, tied on with silver ribbon, for example, a toy horse during the month Equos, for travel and the expansion of horizons, mental as well as physical.