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Experiences We Don’t Understand
Hidden Gems

by Madisyn Taylor

All of the events in our lives lead to other events, they are all connected.

Sometimes we have an experience that we don’t understand, but if we look deeply, or wait long enough, a reason for that experience will usually reveal itself. All the events in our lives lead to other events, and all that we have manifested in this present moment is the result of past events and experiences. We cannot easily tease apart the many threads that have been woven together to create our current reality. Experiences that don’t make sense, as well as any that we regret, are just as responsible for the good things in our lives as the experiences we do understand or label as “good.

This is especially important to remember at times when we feel directionless or unsure of what to do. It is often at times like these that we take a job or move to a place without really knowing if it’s the right thing to do. We may ultimately end up leaving the job or the place, but often during that time we will have met someone who becomes an important friend, or we may have an experience that changes us in a profound way. When all the pieces of our life don’t quite make sense, we can remember that there may be some hidden gem of a reason that we are where we are having the experiences we are having.

It’s fun to look back on past experiences with an eye to uncovering those gems—the dreadful temporary job in a bland office building that introduced you to the love of your life; the roommate you couldn’t tolerate who gave you a book that changed your life; the time spent living in a city you didn’t like that led you into a deeper relationship with yourself. Remembering these past experiences can restore our faith in the present. Life is full of buried treasures. Chances are, you’re sitting on some right now.

Daily OM

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Your Daily Horoscopes for Tuesday, January 1

Unimportant events that might normally pass by unnoticed now stand out with greater emphasis once the Moon slips into detail-oriented Virgo and sharpens our perspective. However, words don’t seem to match up with what’s happening as communicator Mercury aligns with confusing Neptune. The Moon’s stressful opposition to Neptune infuses our feelings with fantasy. Nevertheless, separating facts from fiction can be enough to create positive change.

Aries Horoscope

(Mar 21 – Apr 19)

Although this is likely a day away from work, there might be so much to do at home that you wish you were on the job. Nevertheless, you can see past the present moment as you anticipate the waves of relief heading your way. In the meantime, focusing on the present moment keeps your mind occupied. Don’t let your responsibilities lag; taking care of the most pressing tasks right away eases the intensity so you can find time to relax.

Taurus Horoscope

(Apr 20 – May 20)

A cautious approach to having fun today might sound restrictive at first, but you should be able to make this strategy work with ease. There is no need to go overboard with any type of indulgence; you can thoroughly enjoy yourself now by sharing simple pleasures with your friends or family. Instead of scheming for more gratification in the future, find contentment with what you have in the present.

Gemini Horoscope

(May 21 – Jun 20)

You may feel conflicted today because you’re currently motivated by needs that are different from your natural tendencies. Normally, you would choose communication over silence and activity over passivity. However, you can recharge your emotional batteries now by passing up a tempting party invitation or skipping a distracting trip to the bookstore. But even if you wisely choose to retreat, a part of you still longs for the action. Rest now; play later.

Cancer Horoscope

(Jun 21 – Jul 22)

You are unsure about how involved you want to get with the emotional dramas that are unfolding around you. You might decide that acting cautiously is smarter than jumping into a conflict, only to discover that you are already playing a role in the scene anyhow. You may as well offer your assistance today, for your resistance will only delay a workable resolution. Showing your support by listening to your friends is the first step to establishing common ground.

Leo Horoscope

(Jul 23 – Aug 22)

You may doubt yourself if you are putting too much effort into containing your energy. You’re happiest when your love can be expressed naturally and everyone fully appreciates the magic you bring to their world. Now, however, it’s tricky finding a healthy balance between your inner and outer worlds. Too much exuberance makes others uncomfortable. Too much self-restraint prompts them to worry about you. Don’t be overly concerned; ultimately, all you can do is be yourself.

Virgo Horoscope

(Aug 23 – Sep 22)

Even if there are unresolved issues floating around a current relationship, you can still latch onto a sense of well-being today. Once you decide to take everything in stride, communication becomes more straightforward and you’re apt to just say what’s on your mind. You’re smart enough to know that some things are beyond fixing, and worrying about them won’t make it easier to let go. Forget about the big picture for a while and revel in what you can do in the present moment.

Libra Horoscope

(Sep 23 – Oct 22)

Retreating from the hectic world is a smart idea today and if you take care of your responsibilities early on, you can actually manifest a very relaxing day. However, you must scale back your social obligations or things probably won’t unfold according to your ideal plan. Be ready for a few unexpected twists and turns; engage them willingly instead of resisting the inevitable. Your adaptability is the secret to your success.

Scorpio Horoscope

(Oct 23 – Nov 21)

Although you might believe that being alone with your thoughts is the best way to spend the day, you will probably be better off hanging out with others today. But don’t squander your time by celebrating with just anyone; you can be as selective as you want when it comes to the company you keep. Choose a few special friends and carve out enough space to share something meaningful. An unexpected gift of appreciation or a warm gesture of affection is a wonderful way to demonstrate your love.

Sagittarius Horoscope

(Nov 22 – Dec 21)

You have recently experienced a phase of expansionism and it’s time to re-establish balance in your life. Actually, your tendency to overstep limits may be a central theme for months to come, but it’s still not healthy to lose yourself in unrealistic visions for next year. Instead, focus your attention on something you can change right now — in the present moment. Today, thinking small is your smartest strategy.

Capricorn Horoscope

(Dec 22 – Jan 19)

Having a concrete plan can help you feel better, but it still may be difficult to turn your thoughts into actions today. Don’t be too self-judgmental if you can’t yet get the traction you desire. You wisely realize that the best ideas take time to develop. Nevertheless, remember that you are currently caught between optimism and realism. Be patient; the pace will accelerate in the months ahead and a solid foundation prepares you for the changes of the future.

Aquarius Horoscope

(Jan 20 – Feb 18)

It’s awesome that you can still be comfortable even when life gets strange and weird. It’s not that anything in particular is going wrong now; it’s just that there are lots of loose ends that defy tying up. Instead of attempting to finish last year’s business today, accepting circumstances as they are may be your most intelligent approach. Your irreverent sense of humor might just save the day, capturing the attention of admirers of a quick wit.

Pisces Horoscope

(Feb 19 – Mar 20)

Your friends might try to bring you back down to earth today, but it’s not easy to spend time with them if they’re raining on your dreams and draining your enthusiasm. It’s not that they have bad intentions where you’re concerned; it’s just that they don’t understand the intense relationship you have with your imagination. You can be more tolerant of others once you understand that they sincerely have your happiness in mind.

Daily Horoscopes for Sunday, December 23rd

Life may feel a bit tame after the past few high-energy days, and we quickly relax into the more emotionally stable terrain. The Moon’s visit to laid-back Taurus enables us to find pleasure from simple activities like reading a book, walking in nature or just hanging out with friends and family. But it still might be tricky to fully enjoy the present moment if we’re worrying about what happened yesterday or finalizing plans for the holidays.

Aries Horoscope

(Mar 21 – Apr 19)

Even if you’re longing for a less complicated life, you may have unfinished business to complete before you can separate yourself from the complexity you have created. Although your path appears clearer today, it could take quite a bit of determination in order to reach your destination. Be careful not to become overly complacent with the status quo because it’s not time to let up yet. Putting in extra effort now helps to ensure that you’ll have more time to rest later on.

Taurus Horoscope

(Apr 20 – May 20)

Now that the Moon has returned to your sensual sign, it’s time to soak in the emotional nurturing that is being offered to you. However, it may be a challenge to stop your mind from spinning today. You could be thinking about so many things that your thoughts zip by just beyond your reach. You might even make yourself frustrated if you try to put your fantastic ideas to work. Thankfully, it’s not about productivity now; sit back and enjoy the process without worrying about the results.

Gemini Horoscope

(May 21 – Jun 20)

You can’t remain quiet and let something important slip by today without adding your two cents. In fact, you’re driven to speak your mind now because you’re very clear about your own convictions. But remember that you don’t have to comment on every little thing; instead, pick and choose the most critical issues before stirring up controversy with your point of view.

Cancer Horoscope

(Jun 21 – Jul 22)

The tension of unresolved conflicts is temporarily soothed by your flexible attitude today. You can release whatever was bothering you in return for a relaxing day of spiritual refreshment and social enjoyment. However, you may not be ready to completely let go of your unexpressed feelings. Nevertheless, set them aside for a while without judging yourself too harshly. You’re not avoiding an issue; you’re just waiting for the right moment to handle it.

Leo Horoscope

(Jul 23 – Aug 22)

Today can be a day of contemplation that counterbalances your domestic responsibilities. You might wish that you could escape into a dream, but complications arise if you pay too much attention to your inner world before finishing your chores. But don’t overcompensate by playing the role of a superhero. Just do what you can while still leaving some time to explore your imagination.

Virgo Horoscope

(Aug 23 – Sep 22)

You might have planned a fun event today, only to realize that it’s not going to play out as you wish. Fortunately, you can still enjoy yourself, even if a bit of confusion creeps into your life. There’s no need to become overly concerned by details that won’t be important in the long run anyhow. Instead, shrug off the minor problems and refocus on the basics.

Libra Horoscope

(Sep 23 – Oct 22)

You could get all wrapped up in your thoughts now, although your stoicism may prevent you from talking about your worries with others. You wish that you felt more in the holiday spirit, but serious issues are weighing you down and they won’t go away until you deal with them. Even with concentrated attention today, resolution probably won’t come quickly. In the meantime, find a creative outlet for your irritation instead of spreading it to others.

Scorpio Horoscope

(Oct 23 – Nov 21)

Although you are aware of life’s simplicity today, you’re even more conscious of its complications. The earthy Taurus Moon lures you away from work and toward the pleasure of play. Yet, as a transformational Scorpio, you’re always attracted to a good mystery. Be careful if it appears that someone else can ameliorate your need for complexity, for this is just an illusion. Like it or not, your fate is completely in your own hands.

Sagittarius Horoscope

(Nov 22 – Dec 21)

Returning to the basics isn’t what usually motivates you, but simplification just may be the most critical issue in your life today. You can have positive impact on your immediate environment, but you have to shift out of the fast lane and on to a road less traveled by busy people like you. You’re at an important intersection, and taking the high-speed freeway isn’t in your best interest. A scenic detour might have much more to offer you now.

Capricorn Horoscope

(Dec 22 – Jan 19)

You are rethinking some of your most basic strategies as you try to reinvent yourself these days. Although this transformation process isn’t finished yet, it would be an intelligent exercise to review and re-evaluate your list of accomplishments. Tie up as many loose ends as possible over the next couple of days so you’re ready for the new year.

Aquarius Horoscope

(Jan 20 – Feb 18)

Inner conflict may be the source of additional stress as you reconsider a rational decision you recently made. Your feelings might not be following your good intentions as you assumed they naturally would. Your dilemma probably isn’t apparent to others, but one special person could come through for you now. Be open to receiving good news, or at least an uplifting perspective, from a friend or family member — for it can be just enough encouragement to nudge you along in the right direction.

Pisces Horoscope

(Feb 19 – Mar 20)

Your current ambiguity may get in the way of making concrete plans. You would like to do what’s best, but your intentions might go awry especially if your expectations are inflated. It’s difficult for you to say no to anything that sounds like fun, even if it isn’t very practical. Rely on a second opinion before making any commitments that you will later regret.

Daily OM for May 22nd – Overachieving and Overreaching

Overachieving and Overreaching
A Sign of Imbalance

by Madisyn Taylor

 

Sometimes when we don’t feel good enough, we create imbalance by overachieving or needing to be the best at something.

Overachievers are people who have achieved but still feel the need to do more, creating an imbalance in their lives. People who exhibit this behavior may be trying to compensate for feelings of insecurity and doubts about their worth. They may be chasing unresolved issues from their past into the present, or they might not be looking at their lives as a whole, but judging themselves based only on one aspect of their being. If this is a word that we’ve heard used with respect to our choices and lifestyle, it is worth examining in order to balance our lives for a more rewarding experience.

If we find that we cannot allow ourselves to experience and enjoy the present moment, putting pleasure off into some distant future, it may be a sign that we are being driven to achieve more than is truly necessary. Pushing ourselves beyond the point of exhaustion, or to the exclusion of important people in our lives, robs us of true and meaningful joy. Once we make the connection to the eternal part of us, it can nourish us and allow our priorities to shift from chasing after an elusive feeling to being fully present in the moment so that we can live our lives in the now.

Sometimes we need to look to those we love and admire in order to realize what we value about life. We can take time to note what we like about others, and then turn the mirror to reflect the light of those same words and feelings toward ourselves. It can be quite a revelation to see ourselves in this nourishing light. When we can put the energy that we’ve been devoting to a phantom sense of achievement into the truly satisfying aspects of our lives, we can restore the balance between our inner and outer worlds and experience true joyful peace.

Daily OM for March 18th – A Matter of Priorities

A Matter of Priorities
Letting Go of the Little Stuff

 

When we stop worrying about unimportant matters, we can devote so much more of ourselves to what is truly important.
We experience numerous disappointments each and every day. Our expectations go unmet, our plans are blocked by circumstance, our wishes go unfulfilled, and we discover that our lives are subject to a myriad of forces beyond our conscious control. In some cases, our response is powerful because we must invest ourselves and our resources to overcome genuine hardship. In others, our reactions are far more passionate than our circumstances likely warrant. The tension that permeates our bodies and minds when we are late for an event, interrupted at work, or sitting in traffic is not inappropriate, but it can interfere with our well-being in profound ways. When we stop worrying about relatively unimportant matters, we can be at peace and devote so much more of ourselves to what is truly important.

The small frustrations and irritations wield such power over us because they rob us of the illusion of control. But every problem is a potential teacher—a confusing situation is an opportunity to practice mindfulness, and difficult people provide us with opportunities to display compassion. There is a natural human tendency to invest copious amounts of emotional energy in minor dilemmas and frustrations in order to avoid confronting those more complex issues that are largely outside the realm of our control. The intensity of our response provides us with a temporary sense of personal power that helps us cope with challenges that might otherwise overwhelm us. But it is only when we let the little stuff go that we discover that the big stuff is not really so devastating after all.

In the stress of a singularly tense incident, differentiating between an inconsequential annoyance and a legitimate challenge can seem a monumental task. Ask yourself whether the emotions you are feeling will be as vivid in a year, a day, or even an hour. As focused as you are on this moment in time, your reward for letting go of your emotional investment may be the very happiness and harmony of being whose loss you are lamenting. Needless aggravation is seldom worth the cost it exacts. You cannot distance yourself from life’s inconsistencies, irritations, and upheavals, but you can relinquish your desire for perfect order and gain peace of mind in the process.

Daily OM for January 2nd – Eternally Present

Eternally Present
Past Life Healing

The key to working with past lives is maintaining awareness of the current reality in which the present takes priority.

Exploring our past lives is a valuable way to understand ourselves better and often leads to healing and the resolution of issues plaguing us in this life. However, the key to working with past lives is maintaining an awareness of the current reality in which the present always takes priority. Past lives can be fascinating and entertaining, or emotionally seductive, and we can get lost in them, losing touch with the most important thing—the life we are living right now.

Of course, there is a deep connection between our past lives and our current life, so it’s sometimes hard to say where one begins and the other one ends. For example, we may be aware that one of our closest friends or partners is someone we knew from a past life, and that connection feels like an unbroken chord reaching into the past, reminding us of the vast nature of the soul. We may have issues with this person that stem from the past, or we may just be blessed with a deep love that we are fortunate to have with us in this life. Either way, the issues must be resolved in this life, in the present moment. The love is our gift to experience in this life, not in the past. In many ways, the gift of dealing with our past lives is the profound revelation of how truly eternal we all are. Once we comprehend this, we can let go of focusing on the details of the past and simply allow our awareness of the eternal to positively influence our ability to be in the present moment.

You will know you have received the full fruits of past-life exploration when you find yourself even more powerfully present in the eternal now. The past becomes less distinct as it resolves itself, merging with the present and the future in the nexus of consciousness that holds all time and space. We realize that this moment holds everything within it, the resolved and the unresolved, the past and the future, and that it is from this moment that we must live our lives.

Daily Motivator for October 20th – Choose to do

Witchy Comments & Graphics

Choose to do

In this moment, choose to do. On this day, choose to make real and meaningful progress.

It will take some time, effort and persistence. And in return, you’ll earn yourself some lasting value.

It will challenge you, and frustrate you at times, and make you a little uncomfortable. Yet it will also bring you the satisfaction of a job well done.

You may not always get it perfect, but always you can give it your best. Choosing to work your way forward is not the easiest choice, yet it will ultimately prove to be the most valuable one.

If you’re tempted to let the excuses of the moment hold you back, project your thoughts into the future. Imagine how silly those excuses will seem five years from now, and how thankful you’ll be that you ignored them.

The opportunity of today is worthless unless you act on it. Act on it, choose to do, and you’ll soon be enjoying the many rewards of your efforts.

— Ralph Marston
The Daily Motivator by Ralph Marston 
~Magickal Graphics~

July 5th – Daily Feast

July 5 – Daily Feast

 

Remembering can be painful and sometimes without any real benefit. It keeps us feeling guilty and regretting so much that the good memories are washed out. It is easy enough to forget the good that happened, without covering the good with bad memories. No doubt, everything has not been ideal – but haven’t we given enough thought to the unhappy times? It doesn’t do any good to ruin the present time recalling what went wrong in the past. But we can begin to change. Maybe only a little at first – but honest effort has always changed things for the better and given us self-respect as well. Time grows more and more precious and what we do with it at this moment makes or breaks today and all our tomorrow’s.

~ We are not afraid to work and we are not afraid to do right. ~

TOOKLANNI

‘A Cherokee Feast of Days’, by Joyce Sequichie Hifler

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Daily General Horoscopes for May 13

 

General Daily Horoscope

 

The Sun’s anxious sesquisquare to mysterious Pluto today dredges up old fears without us even realizing what’s happening. Something in the present moment triggers unconscious reactions that add intensity to the events as we engage in a power struggle, real or imagined. Fortunately, the Moon’s shift into gracious Libra at 11:56 am EDT helps us moderate our emotional distress with coolheaded logic, although it can be a tricky balancing act.

 

Aries Horoscope
Aries Horoscope (Mar 21 – Apr 19)

Your day may get off to a bad start, but don’t hold on to any feelings of negativity or they might become obstacles to getting your way. Your workmates are willing to give you the support you want now, but you have to meet them halfway. You are naturally spontaneous, making you acutely aware of the advantage of focusing on the present; consider your current situation without dwelling on your past.

 

 

Taurus Horoscope
Taurus Horoscope (Apr 20 – May 20)

No matter how self-confident you feel now, there are still pragmatic reasons why it’s not wise to charge ahead and take what you want. Luckily, you’re willing to wait and your patience serves you well. Acting too forceful would only complicate things, but taking small, determined steps should increase the chances of reaching your desired destination.

 

 

Gemini Horoscope
Gemini Horoscope (May 21 – Jun 20)

Someone may misinterpret your actions today, for shady Pluto aspects the Sun hiding in your 12th House of Secrets. Fortunately, throughout the day it grows easier to say what needs to be said, but you might not overcome the resistance without an open conflict. Don’t back down, even if you must stand up to another person’s power trip. Ultimately, your persistence and clear conscience will work to your advantage.

 

 

Cancer Horoscope
Cancer Horoscope (June 21 – Jul 22)

Your ambivalence is apparent today if someone demands that you take sides in an open disagreement at work. Although you might have a distinct preference, you’re hesitant to express your opinion because you understand both sides of the issue. Ultimately, you’re aware that you’re an observer and the conflict isn’t necessarily your problem. Even if you’re willing to lend a sympathetic ear, this distraction can affect your productivity. Stand firm in your impartiality to allow others the chance to find a quick resolution on their own.

 

 

Leo Horoscope
Leo Horoscope (Jul 23 – Aug 22)

The Moon’s entry into your 3rd House of Information means that you must make some difficult choices about your schedule. You’re tempted to cram a lot into a small amount of time, but it might be smarter to simply let the day unfold with as few commitments as possible. There’s a sensible wisdom in being flexible to the changing winds, like a kite remains open to the fickle breezes of spring. Stay unattached to the clock today to increase your chances of grabbing an amazing opportunity if it appears out of the blue.

 

Virgo Horoscope
Virgo Horoscope (Aug 23 – Sep 22)

You know what you need to do to reach your current goal; however, you might actually prefer to be doing something very different now. Your struggle over this apparently irresolvable dilemma can be very intense. Thankfully, you have a greater degree of control than you think. Remember that your happiness is not dependent on any one event, but rather on how you respond to life’s twists and turns. Your resilience may be tested today, but you’re up for the challenge.

 

 

Libra Horoscope
Libra Horoscope (Sep 23 – Oct 22)

You may experience an uncharacteristic emotional meltdown this morning, which clears the air of bad feelings and allows you to get back to business. Fortunately, getting along with others isn’t all that difficult when you care about the same issues. Sadly, someone may be dishonest with you today, making you unsympathetic to an alternative perspective. Still, it’s wise to suspend your judgment for a while and be as gracious to others as possible.

 

 

Scorpio Horoscope
Scorpio Horoscope (Oct 23 – Nov 21)

Your patience has worn thin, even if your intentions are good. You’re tired of the same old issues coming up again and again, even though you have processed them and moved on. Fortunately, you can tell that others are really trying to change and you may already see positive movement. But it might not be happening fast enough and you don’t feel like waiting any longer. Being honest and expressing your frustrations in a calm manner reduces the tension and strengthens a key relationship.

 

 

Sagittarius Horoscope
Sagittarius Horoscope (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

You may be known for your social charm, and this usually works in your favor. However, you must exercise self-restraint now or your exuberant style might offend someone important. But rather than withdrawing completely, try toning down your enthusiasm just a touch. Keep in mind that self-discipline doesn’t mean you have to remain silent; it’s about saying the right thing succinctly. It’s crucial to know how much to say and when to stop talking.

 

Capricorn Horoscope
Capricorn Horoscope (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

You may be angry if someone sends you mixed signals today, asking you to do something and then instructing you to back off. You might not have a strong preference about what you should do, but you aren’t happy with the uncertainty that’s raised with the change of plans. Don’t push for clarification; you could inadvertently open a can of worms that’s better left alone. Accept the lack of direction now instead of wasting your energy trying to capture elusive resolution.

 

 

Aquarius Horoscope
Aquarius Horoscope (Jan 20 – Feb 18)

You’re on the edge of a breakthrough today, but you are probably juggling too many tasks to follow up on any one of them. Thankfully, your routine work assignments won’t necessarily prevent you from pursuing a more interesting adventure. Your commitment will probably mean working late hours, but you can meet all your obligations while still having sufficient time to explore a more inspiring path.

 

 

Pisces Horoscope
Pisces Horoscope (Feb 19 – Mar 20)

Your subconscious is sending you powerful messages today, yet they may stem from old fears rather than from current events. Ironically, the more time you put into analyzing your memories, the more intense your feelings become. There’s nothing to be gained by feeding your negative fantasies; instead of worrying about something that’s well in your past, focus all your attention on what’s happening now.