I thought today I might change things up just a tad. I get tired of the same old same old, don’t you? Anyway today, I am going to give you a closer looker at some of the Goddesses, Gods, incense, recipes, crystals and etc., associated with Samhain. I know Samhain is still a couple of weeks off, but I hate to wait to the last-minute to do anything. Besides Samhain is our highest holy day, why not get familiar with the things associated with it? I hope you enjoy!
Sometimes it seems the past is this great labyrinthine thing, infecting, affecting, even overshadowing the present. When you’re “doing your work,” it’s easy to get stuck in process hell, reliving the painful events of your past. If, on the other hand, you’re busily pretending your past is no longer affecting you, the serpentine tentacles of old behaviors and fears reach out from your subconscious, pushing you to recreate your pain until it can finally be healed.
Quite frankly, both of these extremes suck.
We all have pasts, we all have old pain that needs to be healed. We have all lost friends, loved ones, cherished places and times. We have all had things that brought us joy that are no longer part of our lives. All of us.
Bring out your dead!
There is a middle ground. I don’t mean “therapy light,” or giving lip service to your “issues.” I mean truly honoring and grieving the things you have lost, in their time, and then moving on.
There is a saying that I’m going to mangle, something to the effect that the deeper our pain, the deeper it carves the channels for our joy. Samhain is not the time of year that encourages you to continue in a shallow, placid existence. Samhain is not big on denial or avoidance. Samhain is the time of the dead. The time when the doors between the worlds open.
This is not a trivial moment! It is a spectacular opportunity to bring out your dead. Bring them out! Celebrate their lives, their passings. Honor the good and the bad of what there was. Grieve, rage, and celebrate. All together.
For the worlds are mingling on All Hallows Eve. The worlds are closer, all this month.
Feel the presence of those who have gone, and take this moment to celebrate their passage through your life.
Celebrate.
Grieve.
It is all one; both are the path to truth and beauty. You must explore both of these extremes to be at peace with your past.
To be at peace with what has gone.
Your dead need not be physically dead. They can be dead to you, the relationship shattered. They can be an active part of your life, but some aspect of your relationship is no longer possible. When you think of what you have lost, it may be your innocence, or your childhood home, your first love, your soulmate you’ve never met, the eighties, dependence or independence, being part of a family or a lost pet.
No matter. We have all lost things that were precious.
We move through our lives, full of “I’m fine” and “No big deal.” Or we relive it over and over, complaining about it to anyone who will listen, paying therapists to be our guaranteed audience.
Three things must happen: grieving, celebrating and moving on.
Leave out one of this magical trinity, and it loses its power. You must admit the feelings of pain and loss to get them out of your body. Unshed tears form a wall around your heart like a moat. I can see them when I look at people’s auras. They stay there until you move them out of your body, flowing toward release on your tears.
Celebration cannot be neglected. If you don’t honor the good things brought to your life by something gone, you cannot understand the pain. You cannot embrace the experience as a gift, a lesson. You disempower yourself if you choose to ignore the gifts of any experience in your life. “Poor me, that sucked” is a weak stance. “Yes, that hurt, what a pain in the ass that I had to go through that loss, and yes at the same time I am grateful for the gifts the experience has brought me” is a powerful stance.
“It was my experience, you cannot take it from me. You cannot convince me that I am a lesser person for having lost that thing I cherished. I made no mistakes. I chose my path, as the best path for my growth.”
And then moving on. That’s why we have the seasons, the cyclic energies of the planet. The larger forces that surround us are here to aid us in releasing that which no longer serves us. The energies will be building, coming to a peak. October 31 is a beautiful night for ritual, for honoring, grieving and releasing that which is gone. That which is dead.
Bring out your dead.
Bring them out! Create an altar honoring those who are gone. Put pictures or mementos of your ancestors on it. Arrange photos of family or friends who have passed. Draw representations of things you have lost — pictures of your feelings about hope vanished, possibility eradicated, love lost, opportunities gone. Bring it all up, let it all out. Put it all there, together, where you can see it.
When you’re done crying…
Stand there and love it. Love it! Love them all, all the things you’ve let go of. Love yourself for being a living, breathing being standing there loving what’s gone. Love the gifts of memory that allow you to cherish beings who no longer have physical form. Love all of life, which teaches us with pain as well as joy.
Love. Decorate your altar with offerings. Choose items from your heritage to honor your ancestors, or borrow freely if you resonate more with another culture. Burn sage, offer pollen or cornmeal, put out cups of whiskey or tea, light a cigar, give chocolate or rice or sweet cakes or honey, arrange fresh flowers.
Allow this altar to be a part of your life for a few days, bringing the lost into your consciousness.
When it is time, let it go. Burn offerings or painful reminders. Burn your drawings of your pain. Send prayers of gratitude and good wishes for the departed off wherever prayers go. Send your ex your blessings.
Release, release, release.
When your tears are done, when the time of grieving and celebrating the past is done, let it go. Dismantle your altar, putting photos back where they belong, giving the offerings to the earth, getting rid of that which no longer serves you.
Release, release, release.
Then bring your attention back to you. Still standing, you. Still breathing, you. Still loving. Take your attention and your power back inside your own body, and embrace this moment. This one moment, when all power is yours. When all choice is yours.
And move forward with the living.
Freya Ray is a professional psychic, shaman, writer, and teacher.
Dionysus
by Pat Califia
The grapes must be cut down
Or no one but the bees
Will be drunk next summer.
They are full of juice,
Tight-skinned like the testicles
Of a boy with his first shadowed chin.
The harvesters move, row by row,
Unburdening the vines
And making the bees angry.
The grapes are trampled, then put away
While the darkness works its magic.
Not all harvests are so orderly
Comes a day when chaos pours out
Along with the blood of the grape.
Threshing ground and trampling vat
Are abandoned for a wilder dance
In the green meadows, high on the hills.
Where the elder trees of the forest
Still remember their sisters,
Who once cast their leaves and shadows
Upon the floor of the valley.
The plow may subdue the earth, for now.
But the wilderness remembers its ancient boundaries.
And as the sun goes down, Dionysus appears
To dance among his feral women,
His own life safe
Only as long as they can sieze and rend
Anything else athwart their path –
And the wine holds out.
The dance as if they were trampling
The fruit of the vine,
But the red stain has crept
Much higher than their ankles.
They wear golden bells and the skins of leopards.
The hunt has made them happy at last.
If the women cannot kill the god
Who pretends to direct them,
They will take the head of any man
Who struggles to remain upright
When madness has become a virtue
And everything forbidden is permitted.
Backs straight as if they had forgotten.
A lifetime of toiling over field and stove,
The prancing shrieking women dress
Their fores in ivy and demand
They bend their knees or hit the ground
To service what can never be tamed altogether.
The darkness works its magic.
The grapes must be cut down.
A plowshare may be hammered
From a sword,
And just as easily turned
Once more into a weapon
With enough force, enough heat, and
Hard punches from a hammer.
Women are so dangerous
When they become overheated.
Only the profligate might survive this night
And waken eager to drink
Still more of the grape god’s blood,
To help them forget the fences
That were so easily trampled down
Within the walls of this temperate town.
(Reprinted with permission from Pat Califia’s newest book, Diesel Fuel. Pat Califia’s WWW page address is http://www.patcalifia.com)
Learning to be a Pagan
Author: Lanterna
I’m scared of labels. I’m scared of spiritual masters. I had a bad experience with one of them once. But, honestly, I don’t know how to become a “good” Pagan, if there are any ‘good’ or ‘wrong’ ways to be a Pagan. I just know I am honestly in love with the Earth. I like the divine breeze I can breathe in when I open my window at night, the magick of the roses and the grass in that moment, when everything is quiet, when there is none or very little human activity.
It would be presumptuous of me to say I’m a Witch. Do I serve the Gods well? Do I respect the Earth enough? Do I use my magic tools well enough? I’d like to meet guides but I’m leery of meeting people who are shallow or intolerant or manipulative. I’m tempted to learn on my own, through books (I would not believe everything that is written; I would think carefully about it first) , through Pagan forums or websites.
I think what matters most is the genuine love you feel for the Gods. Nobody can tell you what is the best way to serve Them, worship Them, or how to be an Authentic Pagan. Where there is a will, there is a way, and I’m sure Magick will show me the best path. Maybe I will make wonderful encounters here or somewhere else.
I’m sure some of you who read this article will think that I’m not an “Authentic Pagan” or that it’s just a fad or I do not truly want to get involved in Magick. It’s not true. As I said before, I am genuine. I’m just careful about spiritual movements: I don’t know everything about Paganism, and maybe there are, let’s say, dogmas, opinions, beliefs that I don’t agree with in my very core. I will have to find out.
One of the things that attracted me at first, in Paganism, is that it seems that followers are not judgmental of other faiths. “An’ Ye harm none, do what Ye wilt”. That sounds very wise to me. I try not to harm anyone, and I even try to help and / or comfort people when I can. And yet I am always doubting myself: in what way am I really a Pagan / a Witch? Do you ask yourself the same question? Do you sometimes look at yourself in the mirror and ask yourself: Do I deserve to call myself a Witch?
What does it mean to be a Witch?
This is why I have a hard time labeling myself, getting involved in a movement, belonging to a Coven or whatever. I’m a Truth seeker, and I want to be authentic. I am afraid of people telling me, “You’re doing it the wrong way” or “that’s not what a Pagan should do”. I am afraid of narrow-mindedness or people leading me on a dangerous path, as this happened once before.
Don’t get me wrong, if I spend a lot of time reading, thinking, and experimenting before calling myself a Witch and getting involved in Magick 100%. I think that’s what we should do in all religions: read, think over, experiment and then finally decide. We should also trust the signs when they are very strong: like that huge, powerful energy I felt on Halloween day 15 years ago. Or the bliss induced by a Pagan song. Where there is positive energy, bliss, ecstasy, there must be some truth. And it is likely the same thing when we sense that we have “abilities”. It is surely a sign.
I am also sure that when the Gods want something from us, they know how to get our attention. That’s why I try to be very attentive when I perform a ritual, when I pray, or simply when I feel the presence of the Divine sometime in the day.
So to sum up, I think it is not safe to call yourself a Wiccan or a Witch when you have not had a long experience of being into Paganism BUT it does not mean you’re not trying your best to be a genuine, faithful Pagan. It just means you need to take your time, to think this it over, to ask yourself if you are, or can be, a good Pagan before considering calling yourself something as solemn and serious as Witch.
But if you feel strongly attracted to Paganism, if you feel like you are “being called”, it sure means you have to dig in that way before you eventually realize you are (or are not) fit for this spiritual way of life. It’s not like getting a new haircut or getting a tattoo; it is something that will make you rethink your life and it demands involvement and honesty. You want to be sure you understand everything being a Witch implies so that you can walk the path with honor.
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| Name: | Phoebe |
Age: | Two years old |
| Gender: | Female |
Kind: | Tuxedo |
| Home: | Jackson, Michigan, USA |
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Phoebe loves to be “inside” anything, her tunnel, the cupboard, bowl or pots that are left out, the waste basket. She’s our “party girl” who will play with anything or anyone who will participate. She loves chasing her sister, littermate, Rachel. She comes when called and wants to be cuddled whenever her “mom” sits down.
Phoebe is a lover. She will lay in your arms, baby style, for as long as you want or the blood quits flowing to your arms. She will reward you with loud purrs for your time. She is very shy when it comes to strangers and will hide behind the clothes dryer until you give her the “ok” sign. She will come whenever you call her name in hopes of food, play or cuddling. She’s a talker and usually has a lot to say. She’s small in stature but has a loud voice. Mornings are “family” time and she will lay on the towels or get inside a shelf to watch you shower. She rides pretty well in the car and likes to sleep on the dash instead of in the carrier. She finds the strangest places to sleep (notice the picture of her in the bowl). When she was a kitten, she liked to sleep in the Puffs tissue box. I hope this gives you an idea of what a special little girl she is.  |
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A Samhain Meditation for your Ancestors
We’re going on a journey, that you may find difficult. If at any time, you feel you do not wish to continue, please wait quietly, then turn to the south, and you will see a path leading back to the safety of your grove.
Make yourself comfortable, and breathe slowly from your stomach, and clear your mind of all disturbing thoughts.
Enter your sacred grove and stand in the EAST, for you are beginning a journey of memory. Allow yourself to absorb the peace and tranquillity of your space. You hear a beating of wings and feel the touch of cold air on your face. A Raven flies around you, leading you NORTH-WEST, where it alights on a gate and waits, its coal black eyes watching you. Walk towards the gate and stop. Do not fear the Raven, for it is another aspect of the Cailleach. She comes to you now, to guide you. Put your hand on the gate and open it. As you walk through, cast back in your memory to when you were a baby, a young child and remember something good about that time.
Walk through. There is nothing before you but a black, empty void. Do not be afraid. The Raven flies ahead of you, drawing you on.
As the gate closes behind you, remember when you were at school. As you remember, follow the Raven into the darkness until you come to another gate. Place your hand on this gate, and remember the good times of your school days, and when you were a teenager.
Open the gate, and walk through. There is nothing before you, but a black, empty void. Do not be afraid. Allow the Raven to be your guide.
As the gate closes behind you, remember your first job, your first love. Walk slowly forward into the darkness, remembering the feeling that you had when you left your home for the first time. The Raven circles you and leads you to another gate. Place your hand upon this gate and remember the agony of your first love, the apprehension you felt on your first day at work.
Open the gate and walk through. Before you is dark, a black empty void. Do not be afraid. Let the Raven guide you, for you are not alone.
As the gate closes behind you, remember the first little sparrow that you ever saw; the first notes of a blackbird’s song in the twilight; the first buttercup that you held beneath your chin; the first drop of rain on your face, and the first breath of wind in your hair. Remember the blue sky and the golden sun, the silvery moon and the cotton wool clouds skimming overhead. Walk slowly forward into the darkness, hearing the beat of the Raven’s wings, until you come to another gate.
Place your hand upon this gate and remember the seasons as they changed throughout your life; how each season affected your moods and your emotions; how the snows covered the earth, and the frost killed off the autumn flowers.
The Raven sits on the gate, looking at you. Now you will know and understand that Death is all around us. The death of a bird from the scattered feathers on a lawn, the dying breeze as the clouds move onwards. The Death of the sun as it sinks in the West and its re-birth each morning in the East. Seeds planted to bring new Life, yet they come from the death of the flower or nut. Death is in the seasons, as each gives way to the next. Death is part of Life, as the old gives way to the new.
Open the gate and walk through. Before you is dark, a black empty void. Do not be afraid, for the Raven flies beside you.
In the distance you see a door, of shimmering colours. STOP! Do not touch it. Do not open it. Do not approach it at this time, for this is the final gateway that each of us will pass through, when our time comes. It is not yet.
Now turn around slowly, and gaze back through the gates that you have opened and passed through. You will see a silvery line of footprints that mark your journey through life. And if you look past the very first gate, you will see other silvery lines, footprints that belong to your ancestors. Each gate was a death. An ending of a way of life for you, and each gate was the beginning. Think about Death, not in a morbid way, but as a positive beginning that we must all face. Each has a purpose in Life, and each will have a purpose in Death. Live your Life to its fullest because your Ancestors made it possible. And when your time comes, know that it is not the end, but the beginning of a new existence.
When you are able to accept this, then the Cailleach will be able to give you her wisdom and help you through Life. When you can face Death with a free will, then you will be able to live Life to its fullest, for you will be free of Death’s burden.
Look around for the Raven, it is flying SOUTH, where you see a sunlit path leading back to your grove. If you have stopped along the way at any point, do not worry, for you will now see a sunlit path leading SOUTH back to the safety of your Sacred Grove.
When you are comfortably back in your Grove, relax, become aware of your surroundings. As you return to the present time, think about your memories, and consider whether there is anything you should have done. Something that needs finished; perhaps a quarrel that needs to be mended; or saying thank you to someone who has done a kindness. Life is there to be lived, but remember, none of us knows how many gates we will be allowed to open, before we reach the Door beyond. Only the Cailleach knows these things.
How Much is That Witch in the Window?
Author: Sage Runepaw
We’ve maybe even written an essay to someone telling them that witches are real, that they live, breathe, and look like normal people and don’t have sallow, waxy skin with pointy black hats on, that they don’t fly on broomsticks or sacrifice babies or spew dark Words of Evil to the Devil or even that they cackle, “I’ll get you… and your little dog too!” We’ve even probably surprised someone by telling them we even (gasp!) had children of our own who play among all the other children.
We may have become enlightened through our personal beliefs and practices, and we may have taken offense at one point or another at the stereotypical ‘witchy’ image- but at what cost?
The cost of a part of our childhood?
Just think about it a moment, if you will. We all celebrated Halloween at some point or another (unless of course, we were forbidden by our parents for some reason that likely at the time seemed horrible and cruel to us). We all dressed up- put on some flimsy store-bought costume or something we thought was the best we could make at the time, or painted our faces or done -something- to get dressed up and raid the local streets in search of a free sugar overdose.
And it was great, wasn’t it? In fact you maybe even bounced off the walls until 3 in the next morning.
But hey, we were kids then, right? Now we’re Witches! – and we have to take Halloween seriously and point our fingers at the stereotypical witchy images we see every October, don’t we? Samhain is a death-energy time, not a time where children should be dressing up in some image that was used to persecute probably innocent people centuries ago, right?
I admit, this sounds a bit harsh, and perhaps it is- but isn’t there someone out there who’s every bit as sick of people pointing and taking offense to the stereotypes? Sure, they might go away if we wail and stomp our feet loud enough, but seriously- just take a look around any city or even on the Internet, and you’ll see that stereotypes don’t go away.
If anything, they just get ignored and outdated, but they’re there. If we take offense to them and work to combat them, power to you- but- and maybe this is just me- I’m tired of the fighting.
Get your robes back in proper order; don’t let the stereotyping phase you. As I hinted about above, we too once played dress up and might have dressed up as a witch years ago. Sure- what’s wrong with that? As it may have fooled the spirits once upon somewhen, didn’t you feel free, feel -alive- then?
Where then, along the path of your life, did that suddenly get traded out for taking offense to the stereotypical witchy image?
As a child, I never did dress up as a witch, I admit- I personally favored black cats for years on end, and a few times, something else which is now forgotten- but my grandmother, who raised me (and is Catholic, though it doesn’t matter for the purposes of this essay) always had this one Halloween decoration we would put up year after year.
Apparently, I’d dubbed it “Witchypoo” when I was a toddler, and the name stuck. It was this black bead-eyed, stuffed witch with black and orange felt for robes and none of the green-skinned stereotyping. And she sat on this little round wooden dowel broom. I wish I could show you it; it was very cute. Amazingly cute. But you get the point- I took childlike, innocent glee at this witchy figure that took to dangling underneath the kitchen light every October.
And just last October, my grandmother bought a stuffed mantle decoration of three green-faced witches smiling crookedly and brightly out at the world, with purple and black robes and stuffed witchy hats and a pumpkin at their feet. All of October thus far, I’ve worked retail and sold many such stereotypical things: hundreds of pounds of candies, spooky costumes- and witchy ones, too.
Should I be offended by my grandmother’s decoration? No, not really- I could choose to if I wanted. She knew by that point what my practice was, that it wasn’t Satanic (though she expressed her worries and I allayed them as best I knew how at the time) and was something I was serious about.
Should I be offended by working retail and selling these things for a large chain store? I could.
Would the same things offend someone else who’s witchy? Maybe; everyone’s different. But if I chose to be offended and started fighting against the stereotypes, who knows who I could impact?
What if there was a child just down the street telling her mother that she wanted to be a witch for Halloween? Or that she wanted to be a smart witch like Hermione Granger from the Harry Potter movies? – Or something along those lines.
Now, let’s take it a bit further. Supposing I stuck that stereotypical image on my living room windowsill for everyone to look at whenever they walk by my suburban home this month, or on Halloween eve next to a glowing carved pumpkin? Supposing some youth dressed up in a Witch outfit this Halloween saw it, and after some time had passed, found out about ‘real’ witches and that Halloween became a catalyst for him or her- a catalyst that spurred the youth on to become a real witch and transform their lives through their spirituality?
I’m tired of the fighting over stereotypes in a bid to be recognized as legitimate- aren’t you? We already -know- we are legitimate. We know that, and we know also that with time comes acceptance. We work our butts off year round at our jobs and taking care of our children, and fight for our rights.
Why can’t we just recover that moment of our childhood where we took glee at these figures again, if even for a little while? Sure, they might be meant to offend us- but we have the choice to -let- it affect us. Those stereotypes are images of the past. Yes, let’s change it- but let us not lose a part of ourselves by becoming too jaded to smile.
Even the best warriors need to smile and laugh on occasion, after all.
I, for one, see those witch decorations on tree trunks and bushes that portray the witch as having run into a tree face first as an amusing reminder not to get too “hung up” on things in life.
So let us make our celebrations for Samhain and honor the ancestors- but times are a’ changing. Even though there may still be witch-hunts and witch wars somewhere, we cannot fight all the time.
Let us laugh for once, regain a bit of the child within, and see this coming Samhain with newer eyes. Let us release feeling as if we must fight for our rights all the time- just for a bit- and relax. While we can educate our children (if we have them) about those stereotypical images, we can still take time to let our inner child take a breather. Our ancestors, after being oppressed for so long, would want to take a breather from being persecuted.
We have the choice this time- but it is we who are doing the fighting. Perhaps it’s rightfully so- but no warrior can fight all the time.
Even though it’s the dark half of the year, let the light inside you grow brighter. Give yourself a much-deserved respite from the fighting- and smile. Maybe those decorations will help some young one down the road become a priest or priestess of the Craft. After all, you never really know how the universe works. Let us restore our own inner children by taking a brief break. The gods know we work hard enough all the time as it is.
Someday, we’ll achieve what we desire. But we must be careful of those who could be affected- and we must be careful not to let the price of that achievement be our own inner children. We must not become jaded.
Balance in all things, after all.
Altar Cleansing
Supplies: Holy water, scented oil, incense, miniature broom (you can find these at craft stores), salt, two bowls (one for the salt and one for the water—any small, waterproof container is acceptable, many like to use seashells) red candle (taper or votive) candle holder, inspirational music.
Note: If you are not permitted to burn candles or use a lighter, it is okay to think of something else that represents fire to you. For example, you may use a picture of a candle, an electric candle (which are sold around Halloween and Christmas), or a combination of red, yellow, and orange tissue paper fashioned into your idea of fire. You could even wrap colored tissue paper over the head of a flashlight to help you visualize that fiery glow. I wholeheartedly agree that nothing beats the real thing, but if you can’t, then just use your imagination to think of something that will be acceptable for you and your environment.
Timing: Full Moon or New Moon
Instructions: The most important aspect of any magic or ritual is that you take your time, and perform the working without interruption. If someone knocks on your door, or insists on repeatedly walking through the room while you are working, you will most likely become frustrated and lose your concentration. As focus is a major part of magic, you will need to choose a time when you will not be disturbed, especially for the very serious things like cleansing and consecrating your altar.
Place your supplies on a tray or on the floor by your altar. Before you begin, take three deep breaths. As you breathe out, release any negativity or unhappiness you may feel. Now close your eyes and rub your hand lightly together. The deep breathing helps you relax and the friction you create with your hands activates the chakra points (energy fields) in your palms. Closing your eyes helps you to ground and center, and prepare for a magical working. Say:
I feel the power of Spirit in and around me. So Mote It Be.
Open your eyes. Hold the red candle in your hand and say:
May you be cleansed, consecrated and blessed in the name of Spirit (or “in the name of the Lord and Lady”).
Light the candle, then hold the candle out in front of you, over the altar, saying:
From the black and formless void, light blossomed into existence. By igniting this candlewick. I bring the Grace of Spirit (or “our Mother) into my life and into my altar. Element of fire, work your will by my desire.
Pass the flame three times in a counterclockwise (widdershins) direction over the altar, saying:
I banish all negativity from this (wood, stone). Nothing evil or nasty, real or imagined, can ever abide here.
Set the burning candle safely to the side. You will be using it again.
Hold your hands over the incense, and say:
Element of air, may you be cleansed, consecrated, and blessed in the name of Spirit.
Light the incense from the candle flame. Pass the incense smoke over the surface of the altar three times in a counterclockwise direction, saying:
Element of air, work you will by my desire. I banish all negativity from this (wood, stone). Nothing evil or nasty, real or imagined, can ever abide here.
Set the burning incense safely to the side. You will be using it again.
Hold your hands over the salt, and say:
Element of earth, may you be cleansed, consecrated and blessed in the name of Spirit.
When your palm, begin to tingle or grow warm, sprinkle the salt lightly over the top of the altar surface. Just a little will do. Say:
I cleanse this altar with the salt of the earth. Element of earth, work your will by my desire. I banish all negativity from this (wood, stone). Nothing evil or nasty, real or imagined, can ever abide here.
Set the bowl aside. Pick up the bowl or water and say:
Element of water, may you be cleansed, consecrated and blessed in the name of Spirit.
Place the bowl of water in the center of the altar. Add three pinches of salt, stirring clockwise with your finger after each addition to the water. Imagine the water glowing with a soft blue or white light. Pick up the small broom and sprinkle with both salt and water, saying:
Besom, may you be cleansed, consecrated and blessed in the name of Spirit. Work the magic by my desire.
Dip the broom into the consecrated water, and begin sprinkling tiny drops of the liquid onto the altar in counterclockwise (widdershins) circles, saying:
I banish all negativity from this (wood, stone). Nothing evil or nasty, real or imagined, can ever abide here. So Mote It Be!
Being a Pisces born on March 20th, you are all about change and new experiences. You are relentless and get annoyed by too much calm.
Active and bold during your young years, you eventually decide to settle. In time, you become more and more practical and oriented towards finding solutions to the problems of those around. Prepare to read a special personality report below.
The zodiac sign for March 20 is Pisces.
Astrological symbol: Fish. The sign of the Fish is influential for those born February 19 – March 20, when the Sun is considered to be in Pisces. It signifies Divine Consciousness and ambivalence.
The Pisces Constellation with the brightest star being Van Maanen’s is spread on 889 sq degrees between Aquarius to the West and Aries to the East. Its visible latitudes are +90° to -65°, this being just one of the twelve zodiac constellations.
In Greece it is called Ihthis and in France goes by the name Poissons but the Latin origin of the March 3 zodiac sign, the Fish is in the name Pisces.
Opposite sign: Virgo. This means that this sign and Pisces are a straight line across each other on the zodiac wheel and can create an opposition aspect. This suggests compassion and diligence as well as an interesting cooperation between the two sun signs.
Modality: Mobile. The modality proposes the creative nature of those born on March 20 and their optimism and modesty in tackling most life events.
Ruling house: The twelfth house. This zodiac placement suggests the starting over after a success or a pitfall and rising each and every time more powerful and with more experience to learn from.
Ruling body: Neptune. This connection suggests intuition and pleasure. It also suggest the creativity surrounding the lives of these natives. The glyph of Neptune combines the cross with three crescents directed above.
Element: Water. This element represents transformation and continuous growth and is considered to determine the mood swings of those associated with March 20 as they tend to support their actions on feelings and less on reason. Water boils things in association with fire, it’s vaporized by air and shapes things in combination with earth.
Lucky day: Thursday. This is a day ruled by Jupiter, therefore deals with domination and seduction. It suggests the intuitive nature of Pisces natives.
Lucky numbers: 5, 9, 18, 19, 23.
Motto: “I believe!”
People born on March 20 are original and intuitive and love when they are surrounded by others who are as talented as they are. They also take time to observe what is going with those around them, be it at a human personality level or beyond that. They are easily annoyed by materialistic and selfish individuals and are amongst the first to point them out. They enjoy being par of fancy enterprises that allow them to showcase their potential and they are often quite accepting.
Positive Traits: Energetic and quick learners, these Pisces natives have their own lifestyle in many regards. They make faithful and romantic lovers and also insightful and altruistic companions. They are active and bold in their early years but then with age they smooth things with their knowledge and become more confident in themselves.
Negative Traits: Capricious and often stubborn, quick to dramatize and rapid to exaggerate what is going on in their lives, these natives want the whole attention to be on them. Unfortunately they are often victims of their own ideals and life principles and rarely know when to temper their behavior and smooth their impulses. They rely on instinct but often prioritize other things ahead. They try to make logical and rational arrangements but their feelings get caught along the way.
Love and Compatibility: Lovers born on March 20 are creative and adventurous. They love dating and meeting new and exciting persons but when it comes to commitment they avoid any kind of attachment. However, if they ever get struck by love they start acting like fools and their whole world starts revolving around the object of their affection. They are attracted to energetic and fun persons who can keep up with their active and unpredictable lifestyle.
Lucky Color: The preferred color for Pisces zodiac is Turquoise.
This ever changing mix, ranging and changing shades appeals and stimulates the creative and visionary Pisces. This combination of watery colors is not only inspiring but surprisingly soothing for Pisces.
Other hues that appeal to people born on March 20 are purple, pink and sea-green.
Representative Birthstone: The sign stone for Pisces zodiac is the irresistible Aquamarine.
This precious stone is said to ease communication and humanitarian endeavors. Aquamarine also symbolizes increased awareness and quick response.
Other sign stones that are thought to bring luck to people born on March 20 are Amethyst and Opal.
Characteristic Flower: The representative flower for Pisces zodiac is Water Lily.
Water Lily also symbolizes a sincere and warm hearted nature. This is a flower said to influence emotional responses. The multiple petals focused around the golden center suggest a complex and focused nature.
Other flowers suggestive for Pisces are Jonquil and Violet.
Symbolic Metal: Aluminum is the characteristic metal for Pisces zodiac.
Aluminum suggests invention and innovation. This light weight original metal relates to travel and also has a few connections with spirituality and prosperity.
Another metal considered beneficial for people born on March 20 is Zinc.
Characteristics: March 20 Zodiac belongs to the third decan of PISCES (March 11-March 20). This decan is strongly influenced by the planet Pluto. This is representative for people who are creative and idealistic just like Pisces and focused just like Pluto. This period tempers the positive and negative characteristics of the Pisces zodiac sign, slightly enhancing the negative ones.
What Statistics Say: March 20 is counted in the Gregorian Calendar as the 79th day of the year or the 80th day in leap years, while until the end of the year there are 286 days left. The twentieth day of spring, this is the International Day of the Francophonie, the International Day of Happiness and the World Sparrow Day.
If you were born on March 20, you are so sensitive and compassionate toward others that it may overwhelm you sometimes. While you are naturally optimistic, you are also so empathetic that seeing others in pain hurts you personally. Embrace this beautiful gift of sensitivity but practice a modicum of detachment to protect your own feelings and ward off depression. Your sense of loyalty is admirable, but you’ve got to learn to make yourself and your own needs a priority, too!
March 20 Pisces at Their Best: Insightful, compassionate, versatile
March 20 Pisces at Their Worst: Depressed, hyper-sensitive, weak
What to Wear: Soft pastels and relaxed-looking shirts, pants and skirts. Fairy godmother and knight in shining armor outfits are optional.
What to Eat: Clam chowder, shrimp cocktail, baked fish and sea scallops.
Who to Invite: All the millions of people who find their way into sentimental Pisces’ humongous heart.
Where to Go: Any water lover’s paradise like a river, pool, or the beach.
IF YOUR BIRTHDAY IS March 20, you are original. Your adaptable personality is suited well for party-goers. You can interact with anyone from any background. You are most attracted to nontraditional places, things, and people.
In social situations, you love to amuse people or to showcase your many talents. People are often attracted to you for your ability to set everyone at ease.
If you are a Piscean born on this day, your birthday personality characteristics show you to be inquisitive. You tend to develop a unique way of thinking that people may sometimes view as being odd.
Pisces, do not worry about that… keep on doing what you do. It is what makes you, You! Those with March 20 birthday, love their freedom and along with that, is your right to have your own experiences.
You are somewhat like the air we breathe. You can be high one day and low the next. When you are at your low, you can be reclusive and withdrawn.
There is a positive side to this, however. Yes… Pisceans will use this time to regroup or to reinvent themselves. You are on the right road to success. You have a great understanding of how you want your life to be.
On the negative side of Pisces zodiac birthday, 20 March people can be stubborn and competitive. You can get an idea in your head, and it is hard to get you to see otherwise.
Those born on this day would like to keep conflict to a minimum so this Piscean will not have many friends at all. Lessons learned from previous experience, it is easier that way and less drama is involved. You like to keep a positive attitude and avoid destructive influences.
Your birthday astrology predicts that your imagination needs fuel. You get your inspiration from others and your surroundings. Sometimes, Pisces, you get a gut feeling about something and it turns out to have favorable results.
This could be your inner self, leading you in the direction in which you should go. Listen to it especially regarding your financial affairs. It may be beneficial to you.
As the March 20 birthday horoscope foretells, you can excel at anything you do when it comes to your profession. However, you probably would be happiest in creative fields such as careers in writing or music.
Nature has a way of speaking to you when you involve yourself in spiritual things. In addition, Pisces, you would do well in the medical practice or social interaction since you love people and they love you as well.
As a Piscean, you are subject to illnesses relating to allergies or common ailments of the feet. It is also possible that you will have mental challenges. This could be due to a certain trauma in your life or something that is hereditary. Either way, you should seek professional help.
You cannot do some things on your own. It is human to reach for a drink of some kind when we are upset, but you, Pisces born on March 20, should avoid doing this. This kind of behavior can lead to a pattern of excessiveness. Pisceans are also at risk for eating disorders as well.
20 March Pisceans love to dress in free-flowing clothes while they are lounging at home. Often times, you can be in your bare feet. You do not shop at the major department stores for your bargains.
Pisces’ love to bargain hop visiting garage sales and thrift stores. You know you can find many interesting and unique things there. It is also a great way to give back to the community by using the local stores instead of those franchises and chains. You love a good buy and have a distinctive way of dressing.
You love yourself, Pisces. Self-love is a wonderful thing but you let other people’s opinion influence your decisions or and how you feel. You need to have a plan and order in your life.
The March 20 birthday meaning shows that you know exactly how you want things done and how they should turn out. Some of you born on this day are suited for most any profession but you will do well in the music field or something that can use your writing skills.
See: Famous Celebrities Born On March 20
1760 – Boston’s Great Fire destroys 349 buildings
1896 – In order to protect US citizens, Marine forces arrive in Nicaragua
1952 – Peace treaty with Japan is ratified
1976 – Patty Hearst is convicted on an armed robbery charge
March 20 Meen Rashi (Vedic Moon Sign)
March 20 Chinese Zodiac RABBIT
Your ruling planet is Neptune that symbolizes spirituality healing, feelings, emotions and mercy.
The Two Fishes Are The Symbol For The Pisces Zodiac Sign
Your Birth Day Tarot Card is The Moon. This card symbolizes psychic strengths, feelings, confusion, and doubts. The Minor Arcana cards are Ten of Cups and Queen of Wands
You are most compatible with people born under Zodiac Sign Cancer: This is an enchanting match that can be quite interesting.
You are not compatible with people born under Zodiac Sign Sagittarius: A relationship will be full of problems, fights, difficulties.
See Also:
Number 2 – This number stands for caring, nurturing, sensitivity and tenderness.
Number 5 – This number symbolizes enthusiasm, innovation, experimentation and adventure.
Read about: Birthday Numerology
Turquoise: This is a stable color that symbolizes psychic powers, sophistication, grounding, and optimism.
Silver: This color stands for elegance, mysticism, caring and wealth.
Thursday – This day is ruled by planet Jupiter. It symbolizes positive emotions, enthusiasm and wish to accomplish your goals.
Monday – This day is ruled by the Moon. It stands for nurturing, feelings, love, and emotions.
Aquamarine gemstone can help you connect to your spiritual inner self through meditation.
An iPad for the man and a handmade jewelry box for the woman.
Being a Leo born on August 9th, you are creative and energetic. You don’t hesitate to show anyone when you are ready for something and often take a lot of chances.
You are sincere and fun to be around, even if at times you are quite direct and not everyone’s cup of tea. You are reliable and quite punctual. Prepare to read a detailed horoscope profile below.
The zodiac sign for August 9 is Leo.
Astrological symbol: Lion. The sign of the Lion represents people born July 23 – August 22, when the Sun is placed in Leo. It symbolizes an emotionally strong individual who is also courageous and loyal.
The Leo Constellation is located between Cancer to the West and Virgo to the East and has Alpha Leonis as the brightest star. It is spread on an area of 947 sq degrees and its visible latitudes are +90° to -65°.
The Lion is named from the Latin Leo, the zodiac sign for August 9. In Italy it is named Leone while the French call it Leo.
Opposite sign: Aquarius. On the horoscope chart, this and the Leo sun sign are on opposite sides, reflecting affection and creativity and some sort of balancing act between the two with a creation of opposite aspects at times.
Modality: Fixed. The modality proposes the determined nature of those born on August 9 and their persistence and amicability in regard to most life events.
Ruling house: The fifth house. This zodiac placement represents life pleasures that come from simple things up to social contact. It reveals the areas that attract the most the attention of Leos.
Ruling body: Sun. This association reveals support and help. The Sun’s position at one’s birthday determines the zodiac sign. The Sun also shares an insight on pride.
Element: Fire. This is the element of those who confidently pursue their plans and who are quick to reveal their fiery nature. It works so to the benefit of those born on August 9.
Lucky day: Sunday. This day is representative for the fun nature of Leo, is ruled by the Sun and suggests vision and strength.
Lucky numbers: 5, 8, 10, 17, 26.
Motto: “I want!”
People born on August 9 benefit from being driven, convincing and even romantic. Just like a true Leo, they are direct and brave when faced with any life matter. They love to win at everything, whether it is a competition or simply the achievement of a simple task. They dislike coward people and can’t stand to lose anything. Those born under this sign enjoy situations where they can control and lead everything.
Positive traits: These natives are revolutionary and avant-garde and make some of the best visionaries of times. They are the men of action of the future and when this couples with a bit of impulse and kind heart they tend to help others be more assured and overcome their fears. They are known to be emotionally forceful and they rarely show their deficiencies.
Negative traits: Acknowledging that they can’t behave all possessive and vain is the way to go for these natives who are too controlling and too inflexible. They want to have it their way but they need to learn that compromise would often do them more good then the perpetual stubbornness they are displaying when other people are trying to get a bit of the spotlight that is always on them. They can exaggerate certain things just for the sake of the argument.
Love and Compatibility: Lovers born on August 9 are passionate and sensual. They like to take time and invest both emotionally and materially in the dating ritual. They are attracted to exciting and adventurous persons who are also very ambitious and can keep up with them. You can conquer the heart of Leo if you know how to balance the moments when you recognize their merits and celebrate them for who they are with the moments where you temper their risky impulses.
August 9 Zodiac people are very attracted to the other fire signs: Aries and Sagittarius as they tend to share the same vision of life. In life, Leo is constantly seeking for a curious and passionate partner who can expand their horizon and the most suitable to offer this is the native from Aquarius. Leo is thought to be least compatible with Cancer. As for the rest of compatibilities between the other star signs and Leo, you know what they say, stars predispose but people dispose.
Lucky Color: The lucky color for those born under the August 9 is orange.
Orange is a hue that indicates enthusiasm and vitality mixed with endurance. The zodiac color should be used in items of clothing or objects in the house.
Those with orange as sign color are creative, optimistic persons for whom the world is a stage and they have so many things to show. They need to socialize, be accepted and respected as part of a group. This rich hue can bring a boost of energy and power to the charismatic Leo.
Other colors indicated for Leo are red and purple.
Representative Birthstone: The fiery Ruby is the birthstone defined for August 9 and in general for Leo natives.
Ruby is a precious material that denotes faithfulness and passion. This zodiac birthstone should be used in all kinds of jewelry items that are to be worn frequently.
It is thought to relax and open the mind of the wearer in social situations therefore helping communication and understanding. There are also many legends from different historic times involving the special properties of the Ruby.
Another gemstone considered beneficial for Leo natives is Peridot. It represents vitality and enthusiasm.
Characteristic Flower: Sunflower is the flower said to be representative for Leo people born with August 9.
Sunflower is a known symbol of warmth and happiness. The zodiac flower could be used in gifts and decorative items.
This is a fertile and happy flower, always searching for the sun just as Leo is in a permanent search for success. This flower is to be found during midsummer.
Other plants that suit Leo natives are Narcissus and Marigold.
Symbolic Metal: The metal for Leo natives born with the August 9 is Gold.
Gold symbolizes elegance, power and bravery. The zodiac metal could be used in accessories and jewelry items.
Gold is a precious metal with many benefic properties and also meanings related to healing and knowledge. A gold leaf may be only 0.19 microns thick.
Another metal considered lucky for Leo natives is Bronze.
Characteristics: August 9 Zodiac belongs to the second decan of LEO (August 2-August 12). This decan is under the supervision of the planet Jupiter. Those born in this period are enterprising and ambitious just like a true Leo and opportunists full of luck just as Jupiter makes them be. This period tempers the positive and negative characteristics of the Leo zodiac sign with a great accent on the positive ones.
August is the eight month of the year, bringing holidays and very hot, tense days. Those born in August are adventurous and romantic. August 9 Zodiac people are attractive and rebellious. August has as representative symbols the Gladiolus and Poppy as plants and the Peridot and Sardonyx as gemstones. The name comes from Augustus Caesar, the roman emperor.
What Statistics Say: In the Gregorian Calendar, August 9 is the 221st day of the year or the 222nd day in leap years, while until the end of the year there are 144 days left. The seventieth day of summer, this is also the International Day of the World’s Indigenous People as recognized by the UN.
Famous people born on August 9 under the Leo zodiac sign: Amedeo Avogadro, Whitney Houston, Gillian Anderson and Anna Kendrick.
If you were born on August 9, you are the shining star of any team you might find yourself on! Whether it’s sports, work, or family, you are a well-liked, hardworking teammate. You know how to bring people together and make them feel like they’re a part of something important. This is an incredibly admirable trait that will make you a great leader and influencer. Make sure to carve out time for yourself! You can only prioritize everyone else for so long. Take care of number one!
August 09 Leo at Their Best: Inspirational, dedicated, caring
August 09 Leo at Their Worst: Righteous, bossy, prodding
What to Wear: Nothing that could possibly out-class the guest of honor. Arrange to fade into the background when the “star“ makes a grand entrance.
What to Eat: Caviar, foie gras, Chateaubriand and, of course, truffles!
Who to Invite: If heads of state can’t make themselves available, check if Beyonce, Brad Pitt, or a Kardashian might squeeze the soiree into their schedules.
Where to Go: A palace (or a diner that can be decorated like one) would be rather appropriate.
AUGUST 9 birthday horoscope says that your zodiac sign is Leo – The Lion. The Lion is strong and has a potential to be extremely creative. Your desire to be a success is great and so is the likelihood. You are charismatic and pleasant.
In order for the person born today to provide a comfortable life for the family, a stable career is necessary. Although stability is sought after, there may be some blockage due to this drive. It may be a good idea to let the lion roam so that creativity is restored. All eyes are watching your every move but you love it.
As an employer, the August 9th birthday personality has excellent leadership ability. Those in management positions usually go all the way up the chain. While you may have the enthusiasm for life, others may not.
It is your wish that you provide another avenue for them. You believe prosperity is for all and not just a limited few. It could be that you disapprove of poverty. However, occasionally, you can be somewhat of a snob.
The August 9th astrology analysis also predicts that on the other hand, your attitude can be infectious. Seeing others enjoying themselves does your heart good. You like being a part of that, and that is what keeps you grounded.
If today is your birthday, you inspire others to give their all in life. Personally and professionally, you are constantly growing. If you are not helping someone to do better, then those born on August 9 are unhappy. Inactivity can diminish this Leo’s capabilities.
Your friends and family love you. In spite of this, you need constant praise. As a young lion, you were impressionable and would crave praise as a means of affection. The Leo birthday horoscope for August 9 predicts that you do not take criticisms very well. Your self-confidence could have been crushed as a child so as an adult you are super sensitive.
To effectively communicate with a Leo born on this day, you could use a little wit. Laughter goes a long way with the person born under this zodiac sun sign. Many problems could be solved with a smile.
As a negative August 9 horoscope characteristic, you can be stubborn. You certainly willpower, as the optimist would say. Depending on how you look at it, it could be a good thing. It could be said that when you make up your mind about something, you stick with it until it has lost its usefulness.
A Leo in love will usually take the lead. You would think that the Lion would be strong, but you are just the opposite. You are likely to be a temperamental individual. Those with the birthday of August 9 mostly have idealistic notions when it comes to romance. It could be the reason why your feelings are so easily hurt.
However, the August 9 birthday meaning rightly predicts that you are supportive of your lovers and friends. Additionally, as you love to be seen or noticed, this could cause you conflict with your love interest. This in turn can lead to disappointments in the relationship department.
While dating, this August 9 zodiac birthday person, will generally treat his or her partner with loving kindness. You like to do it big with expensive hotel rooms and fine food. The person you would most like to share your experiences with should be independent and equally as smart as you are.
The August 9 zodiac analysis predicts that those born on this day, could be a sculptor, you have an eye for the unusual. Now, your imagination is not limited to work involving the hands. You are quite an actor. You love live music and could play an instrument.
It is possible that you have thought of auditioning for a few parts, but nothing ever came out of it. Maybe you have put the thought off until later in life. The child of a Leo is likely to be pampered and is an essential part of his or her life. Mostly as an occupation, you may look to recognizing your hobbies as being worthwhile and profitable.
A person with an August 9 birthday personality is capable of occupationally doing almost anything. You are extraordinarily gifted, and you possess a great deal of will-power. Being idle means to stifle your creativity. Characteristically, you may not handle criticisms very well, but you are likely a leader who is smart and inspiring.
Mahesh Babu, Sam Elliott, Derek Fisher, Melanie Griffith, Whitney Houston, Michael Kors, Deion Sanders
See: Famous Celebrities Born On August 9
1803 – First-time horses are brought to Hawaii
1841 – 242 people died as a result of an Erie boat fire in Buffalo, NY
1923 – First NY State Golf Association is formed
1964 – The Rolling Stone’s first concert in the Netherlands
August 9 Simha Rashi (Vedic Moon Sign)
August 9 Chinese Zodiac MONKEY
Your ruling planet is Sun that symbolizes your present feelings, thoughts, and actions.
The Lion Is The Symbol For The Leo Star Sign
Your Birthday Tarot Card is The Hermit. This card symbolizes a period of contemplation, aloofness, solitude, and deliberation. The Minor Arcana cards are Six of Wands and Knight of Wands
You are most compatible with people born under Zodiac Sign Leo: This match can be a battle of wits.
You are not compatible with people born under Zodiac Sign Pisces: There is no love in this match only sparks.
See Also:
Number 8 – This number signifies your Karmic and materialistic goals in life.
Number 9 – This number signifies the charitable and humanitarian aspect of your personality.
Read about: Birthday Numerology
Red: This color stands for love, action, enthusiasm, and revenge
Orange: This is an energizing color that stands for success, joy, trust, and balance.
Sunday – This is the day of the Sun that helps you plan your future and gives you the determination to fulfill your dreams.
Tuesday – This is the day of the planet Mars and is symbolic of ability to come out a winner if you avoid getting into useless arguments.
Ruby gemstone gives you courage and strength and makes you more passionate and energetic.
A dinner suit for the man and an evening gown for the woman. The August 9 birthday horoscope predicts that you will love formal gifts.
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