Jul 31, 2009
Jul 30, 2009
Tarot Shadow Work- Self Loathing
In the sixth position of The Star of Discovery lies self loathing. The card I drew for this spot is Judgement....this card's Shadow meanings include: Having a harsh inner critic; Failure to be merciful or forgiving with myself or others; Holding a grudge; Being critical of yourself or others...hello...that is so me! The author must have been peeking in on my thoughts for sure because I couldn't have given a more accurate summation of my attitude!
As a child, my household was extremely critical and rife with perfectionism... my mother, I swear, had OCD because everything had a place and things were always so neat and tidy it almost sparkled. Children, as you know, are not neat and tidy nor are they clean and spotless... sometimes life does happen, spills, stains and mud pies are almost always a given. I often would entertain myself (I am an only child) by turning a knick knack or two just a hair to the left or right and watch my mother come unglued as she walked by (not even looking in the direction of said knick knacks) and suddenly just know that there was something amiss! Can you say grounded?!
As I grew up I think the result of growing up in that environment reared it's ugly head and festered into critical and judgemental thinking. What right did I have to set standards for everyone that I myself could not ever hope to reach?! What right did I have to hold others accountable for the very same flaws that I had?! It is said that what we detest in others is only a reflection of our own annoying behaviors, habits and attitudes.
How many times did that ugly old tape recorder play in my head..."Stupid... Lazy... Should have known better...If my head wasn't attached..." All those nasty little self defeating things we often say to ourselves and not even stop to realize what we are doing to ourselves and those around us. If this reminds you a little of yourself... try this week to repeat a few positive affirmations like "I am a good person, I am smart, I am worthwhile...and for goddess sakes.....forgive yourself!!
Jul 29, 2009
Only 108.5 Degrees?!
Poor Lilo tries to cool her substantial "fluff" in the shade...
Jeffery knows just where to be on a 108 degree day!
Jul 28, 2009
Tarot Tuesday
Flowering
In this card we see an image of a beautiful woman sitting upon a lotus flower with rainbow colors around her... Osho Zen calls her the Queen of the Rainbows. In comparison to a traditional tarot deck, she is the equivalent of The Queen of Pentacles (or Disks.) She sits on her lotus blossom and gives the impression of possibilities, , vitality and sexuality and overflowing abundance.
The abundance that this card is speaking of is that of sharing your abundance with others...open yourself up and share your bliss and sense of wholeness not just in material matters but those of the heart and soul. Is there someone in your life that is in need ...whether it be spiritually, emotionally or physically...? Can you send your bliss, your abundance with someone in need...?
Make a list of the abundances in your life, things that you are blessed with....Are you spiritually abundant... are you thanful for your spirituality...do you express it in everything you do? Is your abundance of the emotional type, are you a good listener... can you be a shoulder to cry on? Is time where you are abundant...do you have a few spare hours each week to give a hand at a local charity, animal shelter or nursing home?
Real abundance reflects, compassion, sharing your enlightenment, not reacting to anger with anger. We are all connected in this world, not one thing happens that does not ripple back to us in various ways. Why don't we send out some positive, abundant ripples and see just how it returns to us?
Osho Zen Tarot
Jul 27, 2009
Cardinal, Fixed And Mutable...
The Cardinal Signs—Aries (cardinal fire), Cancer (cardinal water), Libra (cardinal air), and Capricorn (cardinal earth)—begin each season and symbolize activity, initiation, dynamism, speed, executive ability, crisis, self-assertion and creativity.
All the cardinal signs are self-assertive... Cardinal fire (Aries) is direct and uncomplicated outward energy; cardinal water (Cancer) is indirect, subjective, and emotionally assertive; cardinal air (Libra) needs unprejudiced action in regard to others and is mentally assertive; and cardinal earth (Capricorn) symbolizes action towards success and social prestige, and is materially oriented in action.
All the cardinal signs are self-assertive... Cardinal fire (Aries) is direct and uncomplicated outward energy; cardinal water (Cancer) is indirect, subjective, and emotionally assertive; cardinal air (Libra) needs unprejudiced action in regard to others and is mentally assertive; and cardinal earth (Capricorn) symbolizes action towards success and social prestige, and is materially oriented in action.
The Fixed Signs—Taurus (fixed earth), Leo (fixed fire), Scorpio (fixed water), and Aquarius (fixed air)—are the power or kundalini signs manifesting as will. They are latent, stable, reserved, planners, and reservoirs of energy. Hard aspects between different fixed signs symbolize lessons we have failed to learn over many lifetimes related to the misuse of our will.
The fixed signs are all power signs (and collectively known as the serpent signs of the zodiac.) In Taurus, fixed earth, the power is latent and the serpent is coiled up energy. In Leo, fixed fire, the power is active and the serpent is uncoiled, as can be seen in the astrological glyph for Leo; in Scorpio, fixed water, the power has gone into the subconscious and the shadow, and needs to be illuminated and made conscious through self-transformation and self-knowledge ; and in Aquarius, fixed air, the universal serpent of wisdom is reflected in the power of the individual will.
The Mutable Signs—Gemini (mutable air), Virgo (mutable earth), Sagittarius (mutable fire), and Pisces (mutable water)—are the final sign of each season, preparing the way for the next. They are flexible, versatile, harmonizing, adaptable, good with people, highly personal and good imitators.
Too many mutable signs in a horoscope, on the other hand, can indicate a lack of focus and will, and a propensity to negativity. Such individuals are very changeable and hard to pin down, like "the rolling stone that gathers no moss." Lacking the strength, will and persistence conferred by fixed signs, or the assertiveness of cardinal signs, the individual with too many mutable signs may allow external circumstances to control his or her life.
Jul 26, 2009
Serenity Sunday
Lammas, also known as Lughnasadh... Lammastide and First Harvest Festival is celebrated on August 1st. Lammas is considered a time of thanksgiving and is the first of the three Pagan harvest festivals. The Sun's strength begins to wane and the plants of spring begin to wither and drop their fruits or seeds for our use as well as to ensure future crops.
At this time, we become conscious of the sacrifice the Sun God is preparing to make. We experience a sense of abundance at the same time we begin to feel an urgency to prepare for the death of winter. First grains and fruits of the Earth are cut and stored for the dark winter months. There is much yellow, orange and green that surround us during this time, in both the harvest as well as the symbolic colors of our ritual
Yellow. The color of intellect and imagination. It is still summer and we are creative and confident. We are inspired in the rays of the sun which continues to bathe us during this time
Orange. Nature's power color signifies stimulation and control. There is still a great deal of encouragement within the season as what is around us continues to grow and produce
Green. Abundant and leafy in it's very feel, this color signifies generosity and balance.
My List:
1.) My kids
2.) My cats
3.) Best friends
4.) Fresh homemade pesto
5.) Poems from the heart
6.) Goldfish
7.) Magenta toenail polish
8.) Dark Moon spells
9.) Flower shaped sprinklers
10.) My tarot and oracle decks
Jul 25, 2009
A Poem To Me...
My best friend sent this to me this morning and it totally made my whole day!
As the sun rises in the morning
and I awaken from this wonderful slumber,
my first thoughts appear one who makes me feel that I count
and who's generosity supersedes all around her,
this friend is surely within my soul.
Thank You, Liz
Jul 24, 2009
The Goddess Neith
Neith, a goddess from one of the oldest Egyptian cultures, was the patron of war, impartiality and the funeral bier and mummification wrappings. Neith was seen as a woman who carried weapons of war, which were usually the bow and arrow. Neith was also a Goddess of the domestic arts and weaving. During Old Kingdom times Neith was a deity of war and would be invoked by soldiers for the protection of their weapons. These weapons were generally consecrated to the Goddess Neith.
During the New Kingdom though Neith was more closely associated with the Funerary rites,as mummy wrappings were called “Gifts of Neith”. At times Neith was considered the Creator Goddess who gave birth to the Universe even though she had no consort, she is one of only a few Goddesses who was to be given this ability.
When depicted in human form she wears the red crown of Lower Egypt, and in ancient times her preanthropomorphic symbol was a shield bearing crosses because she also was a local war goddess. This goddess of war also blessed hunters' weapons. The practice of placing weapons around the coffin in ancient Egyptian times could be traced to the goddess' protective functions.
Jul 23, 2009
Tarot Shadow Work- Secrecy
Today I'm blogging about the fifth position, secrecy. The card I drew for this position is The Fool...some of his Shadow Qualities are: Not listening to your inner voice... Fearing or doubting the future... Refusing to try the new... Lacking playfulness and Rigidity. Looking at The Fool, I ask myself "What rarely do I talk about...? "What are my secrets and my family's secrets...?"What do I fear that people might find out about me?"
The whole energy of The Fool is his naivete, immaturity and apparent foolishness and when applied to myself this definitely does not fit a mindset of these qualities but an issue of age. One of my secrets (that at one time I rarely if ever discussed with anyone) is that a few years after my father's suicide, I was molested over a period of time by a neighbor and when I got older was then raped by him.
The whole energy of The Fool is his naivete, immaturity and apparent foolishness and when applied to myself this definitely does not fit a mindset of these qualities but an issue of age. One of my secrets (that at one time I rarely if ever discussed with anyone) is that a few years after my father's suicide, I was molested over a period of time by a neighbor and when I got older was then raped by him.
This was such a venerable time for me... I was only twelve...headed into puberty and looked at this person as a father figure which left me open for him to take advantage of the situation. For many years I remained silent, cursing and holding myself responsible for what happened not ever realizing that this behavior might not be limited to just me since most child molesters rarely stop at just one victim.
It wasn't until I was nearly midway through my thirties that I actually approached this part of my past and looked at it as a possible root cause of my psychological issues involving agoraphobia and post traumatic stress ...if it was not affecting me much then, it certainly paved the way for these problems to take root and grow larger with the years. My reaction resulted in my inability to experience fun as others do or even kick free of that rigid mentality I kept tightly wrapped around me as a cloak.
I realize that now that my secret was not my fault and my driving need for a father should never have been an excuse for an adult in a position of authority to exploit. As far as how revealing this secret has affected my life...? I'm more open now as to how I communicate with others my age and I understand that what happened then is not going to haunt me any longer, I am a whole, worthwhile individual and I am going to allow myself to shine as brightly as I was made to do.
Jul 22, 2009
Candle Anointing Oil
Recipe for Love Oil
Use : To anoint your candle in love or romance spells.
Wait for the New Moon, then prepare oil to add heightened power
Use a small darkened bottle and add about 1/4 base oil
Add flowers and oils, let them infuse
Use : To anoint your candle in love or romance spells.
Simply rub the oil around the candles to increase their potency
and include in love rituals.
and include in love rituals.
Ingredients:
~A base oil.... sunflower, almond, olive etc.
~7 drops Rose oil
~3 Drops Jasmine oil
~3 Drops Patchouli oil
~7 Drops Dragon's Blood resin oil
~3 Red rose petals or rose buds (can be shades of pink)
Wait for the New Moon, then prepare oil to add heightened power
Use a small darkened bottle and add about 1/4 base oil
Add flowers and oils, let them infuse
Jul 21, 2009
Tarot Tuesday
G. Hobya appears to be a very scary individual indeed and to me he represents my irrational fear...commonly called Agoraphobia. It's a terrible feeling, that of panic, when venturing into unknown areas and unfamiliar territory and it is never comfortable and always too far from my safety zone. G. Hobya reminds me that this fear lies only in my imagination...the "what if's" and "should be's."
I often feel that I "should be" in control over this fear and "what if" will probably never happen so when I see this frightening fellow I must stop my thinking in circles and dig deep into just why this fear has taken such a strong hold on my imagination. Most of the time people who have this fear find themselves thrust into this mindset after a traumatic event or situation...sadly I am no different.
G. Hobya waves our fears in front of us, making them appear quite real but at the same time he is trying to show us that if we look to the past and figure out what this fear is and how it came about , we will be able to distinguish the imaginary from situations in which a healthy caution is appropriate. By breaking old habits and patterns we are liberating ourselves to a life of feeling okay in our own skin and joyful.
Card # 61 G. Hobya
Faeries Oracle
I often feel that I "should be" in control over this fear and "what if" will probably never happen so when I see this frightening fellow I must stop my thinking in circles and dig deep into just why this fear has taken such a strong hold on my imagination. Most of the time people who have this fear find themselves thrust into this mindset after a traumatic event or situation...sadly I am no different.
G. Hobya waves our fears in front of us, making them appear quite real but at the same time he is trying to show us that if we look to the past and figure out what this fear is and how it came about , we will be able to distinguish the imaginary from situations in which a healthy caution is appropriate. By breaking old habits and patterns we are liberating ourselves to a life of feeling okay in our own skin and joyful.
Card # 61 G. Hobya
Faeries Oracle
Jul 20, 2009
Silly Picture Of The Week
Lilo was sleeping peacefully behind the couch cushion...when along came Toodles and made himself comfy. It seems that it was "all good" since neither one complained.
Jul 19, 2009
Serenity Sunday
When the dark moon appears, it becomes easier for us to shed unnecessary emotional baggage and free ourselves of people and ideas that no longer serve us or add value to our life. It is a time to cleanse ourselves and create space so that what is new can enter.
For many people, the dark moon is a time to rest, be introspective, and replenish their energy. Powerful, healing dreams have been known to take place during the dark moon, and you may discover that it is during the dark moon that you are most driven to meditate, explore your intuitive abilities, retrieve past life memories, or delve more deeply into your psyche.
One way to harness the energy of the dark moon is to perform a ritual where you light a black candle. First, ground and center...then call forth and visualize the different parts of your life that you are ready to let go of. Through visualization, bind these parts together with light and imagine this bundle moving toward the candle. Watch these old parts being devoured by the flames, and let the candle burn out. Trust that what you've released has left you. Thank the goddess and you are now ready to welcome the new into your life.
New Moon for July, 2009
July 22, 02:35
My List:
1.) My kids
2.) My cats
3.) Harry Potter movies
4.) Fish for the pond
5.) Snuggles and hugs and kisses...oh my!
6.) My Faeries Oracles cards
7.) Homemade burritos
8.) Fudgesicles
9.) Text messaging...It is the twenty first century!
10.) Stargazing with my buddy
Jul 18, 2009
Of Pentagrams And Apples
I came upon an interesting tidbit about pentagrams and their association with apples ( a pentacle is the five pointed star and a pentagram is the same five pointed star enclosed in a circle) and believe it or not had never heard of the pagan lore attached to it. As follows is a (not so )brief summary of it's origins in pagan history
Think of an apple... juicy and red and ripe for the picking. When it is sliced in half, it magically shows us a five pointed star formed by the seeds inside. Each of these five seeds contain a symbolism reflecting the spiritual aspects of this universal symbol: idea; sustenance; life, secret knowledge and the hidden mysteries within the earth.
Remember the story of Adam and Eve...? In Christian lore, the apple represented hidden knowledge which was forbidden to human kind and the apple signified that which we should not attempt to know ... and attempts over the centuries to obtain knowledge of the Universe ...and therefore, ourselves... were suppressed. The pentagram in its modern guise as the pentacle was also a target of this subjugation.
The pentagram was originally a symbol of the goddess, Kore, who was worshipped in many countries as widespread as England and Egypt thousands of years ago, but under many different names (i.e. Cara, Ceres, Carnak, Core, Car, Karnak, etc). Kore's sacred fruit was the apple. When cut through its equator, the apple has a near perfect pentagram shape inside, with each point containing a seed. Many Wiccans, Pagans and Roma (Gypsies) still cut apples in this way and the Roma refer to apple cores as Stars of Knowledge
Remember the story of Adam and Eve...? In Christian lore, the apple represented hidden knowledge which was forbidden to human kind and the apple signified that which we should not attempt to know ... and attempts over the centuries to obtain knowledge of the Universe ...and therefore, ourselves... were suppressed. The pentagram in its modern guise as the pentacle was also a target of this subjugation.
The pentagram was originally a symbol of the goddess, Kore, who was worshipped in many countries as widespread as England and Egypt thousands of years ago, but under many different names (i.e. Cara, Ceres, Carnak, Core, Car, Karnak, etc). Kore's sacred fruit was the apple. When cut through its equator, the apple has a near perfect pentagram shape inside, with each point containing a seed. Many Wiccans, Pagans and Roma (Gypsies) still cut apples in this way and the Roma refer to apple cores as Stars of Knowledge
Think of this next time you eat an apple. -spirituality-goddess-symbols
Jul 17, 2009
Ah, The Gibbous Moon...
I never really put too much thought into various lunar terminology other than whether it is full, half, quarter or dark but for some reason the term Gibbous Moon came up between my room mate and I and the lightbulb went off in my head that this would be a great blog topic. The following information was found on "Universe Today" and I hope you find it as interesting as I have.
Full Moon – July 7, 09:21
Last Quarter – July 15, 09:53
New Moon – July 22, 02:35
First Quarter – July 28, 22:00
Full Moon – August 6, 00:55
Last Quarter – August 13, 18:55
New Moon – August 20, 10:02
First Quarter – August 27, 11:42
Eight Phases of the Moon
Although the lunar phases actually transition smoothly from one phase to another, we have developed different terms for the 8 moon phases that look distinct. The Moon's appearance moves through each of these moon phases as the amount of sunlight falling on it changes from our perspective. this is a cycle that always moves in the same direction. The Moon will always go from new moon to first quarter then full moon, then last quarter and back to new moon again.
Here are the eight phases of the moon:
- New Moon ( I call it the Dark Moon )– When the illuminated side of the Moon is away from the Earth. The Moon and the Sun are lined up on the same side of the Earth, so we can only see the shadowed side. This is also the time that you can experience solar eclipses, when the Moon passes directly in front of the Sun and casts a shadow onto the surface of the Earth. During a new moon, we can also see the reflected light from the Earth, since no sunlight is falling on the Moon – this is known as earthshine.
- Crescent ( or New Moon as I call it) – The crescent moon is the first sliver of the Moon that we can see. From the northern hemisphere, the crescent moon has the illuminated edge of the Moon on the right. This situation is reversed for the southern hemisphere.
- First Quarter – Although it's called a quarter moon, we actually see this phase when the Moon is half illuminated. This means that the Sun and the Moon make a 90-degree angle compared to the Earth.
- Waxing Gibbous – This phase of the Moon occurs when the Moon is more illuminated that half, but it's not yet a full Moon.
- Full Moon – This is the phase when the Moon is brightest in the sky. From our perspective here on Earth, the Moon is fully illuminated by the light of the Sun. This is also the time of the lunar month when you can see lunar eclipses – these occur when the Moon passes through the shadow of the Earth.
- Waning Gibbous – In this lunar phase, the Moon is less than fully illuminated, but more than half.
- Last Quarter – At this point of the lunar cycle, the Moon has reached half illumination. Now it's the left-hand side of the Moon that's illuminated, and the right-hand side in darkness (from a northern hemisphere perspective).
- Crescent – This is the final sliver of illuminated moon we can see before the Moon goes into darkness again
Moon Phases, July 2009
Full Moon – July 7, 09:21
Last Quarter – July 15, 09:53
New Moon – July 22, 02:35
First Quarter – July 28, 22:00
Moon Phases, August 2009
Full Moon – August 6, 00:55
Last Quarter – August 13, 18:55
New Moon – August 20, 10:02
First Quarter – August 27, 11:42
Jul 16, 2009
Tarot Shadow Work- Anger
The fourth position on the Star of Discovery deals with anger, the anger that is felt towards another that reflects our own anger and/or rage issues. The card that I drew for this position is The Devil. Shadow attributes of the Devil are failure to love ones self...being too serious about life...the inability to play and sexually repression.
Anger is usually always fear in disguise and position four is indeed frightening for me. I was taught as a child that expressing anger was inappropriate as well as acting silly... daydreaming and talk about anything that remotely had to do with the "S" word...you know... sex!. I'm not sure why these emotions were not acceptable or why my mother thought that sex was such a bad or naughty subject, I never really have asked her why but it seemed like being in control of myself was something I always had to remain vigilant about.
It wasn't polite to act out in public or touch things that were not mine but somewhere along the line any type of behavior that most children exhibit was frowned upon and one look from my mom and I knew I was treading on dangerous ground. It stunted me as I grew up and have always felt the irrational need to keep myself under control even if it meant at the cost of my opinion, freedom of expression or the natural human need for intimate contact. (that dreaded "S" word!)
That belief hindered my first marriage as I was unable to truly understand and practice intimacy on a normal level and I think it may have even been the root issue that led to my divorce. Life is a journey... a learning process.. and it becomes very rocky and unclear if we do not have a healthy foundation to base emotional responses on. I am still learning and growing and thank the goddess daily for guidance and her subtle way of pointing me in the right direction.
Jul 15, 2009
Silly Picture Of The Week
I had a really busy day today and I didn't prepare well for today's blog so I thought I would put up a rather silly photo of my cat Lilo (whom I affectionately call "pounds a plenty"... "tons of fun" or just "Lilo the large") sleeping on the back of my couch amongst my freshly folded laundry.
Jul 14, 2009
Tarot Tuesday
The age old expression "You reap what you sow..." is especially acurate when Nemesis appears in a reading. When I look at this card, karma often comes to mind as to how I may have arrived at the present situation. Choices always lead to either positive or negative results and keeping in mind enjoying positive results depends on wise choices... and is always an incentive.
When we find ourselves in a less desireable situation, it is also a wise not to react negatively or even fly off the handle since every action does indeed come back to us. The three-fold law reminds us that what we think, say or act upon does reflect back to us and I like to ponder what my intent or action might be reflecting back on me.
People all have the choice of free will and it is not my decision to make about what is in the best interests of others, no more than I like it if someone decides for me. We need to remember that balance and fairness is not our responsibility but that of the god or goddess, it would be terribly arrogant to assume that the universal mind needs any sort of assistance from little 'ole me
When we find ourselves in a less desireable situation, it is also a wise not to react negatively or even fly off the handle since every action does indeed come back to us. The three-fold law reminds us that what we think, say or act upon does reflect back to us and I like to ponder what my intent or action might be reflecting back on me.
People all have the choice of free will and it is not my decision to make about what is in the best interests of others, no more than I like it if someone decides for me. We need to remember that balance and fairness is not our responsibility but that of the god or goddess, it would be terribly arrogant to assume that the universal mind needs any sort of assistance from little 'ole me
The Enchanted Oracle
Jessica Galbreth
Jul 13, 2009
Tasty Recipe
Candied Ginger Truffles
I was surfing the net again, looking for really cool recipes and came upon this one that sounded heavenly. I have some down time around mid week so I thought I might give this a try!
Yield: Makes about 2 dozen 1-inch truffles
Ingredients
3/4 cup whipping cream
12 ounces bittersweet or semisweet chocolate, finely chopped
1 tablespoon rum
1/4 cup minced candied ginger
About 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa
Preparation
1. In a 1- to 2-quart pan over high heat, bring cream to a boil. Meanwhile, place chopped chocolate in a bowl. Pour cream over chocolate and stir gently with a flexible spatula until chocolate is melted and mixture is smooth. (If chocolate does not melt completely, place bowl over a pan of barely simmering water and stir until melted and smooth.) Stir in rum and candied ginger. Chill mixture until firm, at least 3 hours; if desired, cover and chill up to 1 week.
2. Line a 12- by 15-inch baking sheet with a piece of waxed paper. With a spoon, scoop out 1-tablespoon portions of chocolate mixture; place on waxed paper. If mixture is too firm to scoop, let stand at room temperature about 10 minutes.
3. Place 1/4 cup cocoa on a rimmed plate. Dust hands lightly with cocoa. With your hands, roll each scoop of chocolate mixture into a ball, then roll in cocoa to coat. Place each truffle in a small paper candy cup (see notes). To store, place truffles between layers of waxed paper in an airtight container and chill. Advise recipient to chill as well, then bring to room temperature just before serving.
Jul 12, 2009
Serenity Sunday
My Best Friend
I'm not sure when it happened
But I'm very glad it did
You came into my life when
I really needed a friend
The more I get to know you
The more I know myself
And this is why I'm thankful
For you are just yourself
You and I are different
And in many ways the same
Your good ear, compassionate heart
Will always find you fame
I promise to always be here
Forever and to the end
You are the true definition of
But I'm very glad it did
You came into my life when
I really needed a friend
The more I get to know you
The more I know myself
And this is why I'm thankful
For you are just yourself
You and I are different
And in many ways the same
Your good ear, compassionate heart
Will always find you fame
I promise to always be here
Forever and to the end
You are the true definition of
My List:
1.) My kids
2.) My cats
3.) Reflecting pools
4.) The magical properties of stones
5.) Fresh herbs to cook with
6.) Getting rid of my grey hair
7.) Spending time with a dear friend
8.) Jumbo shrimp
9.) Cream cheese
10.) Feather mattresses
Jul 11, 2009
Magical Stones- Obsidian
Energy: Projective
Planet: Saturn
Element: Fire
Deity: Tezcatlipoca (Aztec, "Smoking Mirror" or "Shining Mirror")
Powers: Protection, Grounding, Divination, Peace
Magical/Ritual Lore: Obsidian is simply lava that cooled so fast that the minerals contained within didn't have time to form. It is a naturally occurring glass.
The Ancient Aztecs fashioned flat, square mirrors of this black glass for use in divination. According to legend the famous Dr. Dee, a magician-alchemist hired by England's Queen Elizabeth I, may have used one of these mirrors in his scrying sessions.
Obsidian is effective when carried or used in protective rituals. One involves surrounding a white candle with four obsidian arrowheads that each point to one of the directions. This sets up aggressive energies which guard the place in which it is set up.
This powerful stone makes a strong shield of protection around the wearer. It is an excellent grounding stone, helping to release negativity and to stabilized. As a scrying tool, obsidian can offer an accurate reflection of the changes that need to be made. Its answers can be quick and somewhat pointed, as obsidian walks the shadow side of the void. It will help to provide a clear course of action, and let you know what challenges are the most necessary to face -- but not always the easiest or most pleasant lessons. Obsidian blades are excellent for cord-cutting workings
Jul 10, 2009
Magical Herbs- Rue
Rue is a hardy evergreen perennial. The color of its leaves are a greenish blue, with an almost grayish cast... makes it a useful ornamental plant in today’s gardens. The leaves are rounded lobes of 4-5 spoon shaped segments. If you look at a leaf, you can see that it looks very much like the suit of clubs in playing cards, and is supposedly the inspiration for that symbol. The small, yellow, waxy, star-shaped flowers become attractive seed pods that are long-lasting and make an exceptional decorative accent in dried arrangements. Rue enjoys a sunny but protected site in well drained or poor soil.
Rue has been used as a medicine and a magicical herb for centuries. People have used it to treat almost every kind of sickness. During the Middle Ages, people used rue in a potion to protect themselves from the black plague and to defend against witches. Artists, including Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci, thought they could improve their creativity and eyesight by eating rue. Rue is a symbol of regret, sorrow,and repentance. Catholics used sprigs of it to sprinkle holy water on worshippers.
For centuries Rue has been considered one of the foremost protective herbs, especially against the evil eye, a belief that originated in the Middle East and which holds that magical harm can come to people through the glance of an envious onlooker. In Italy, faith in the protective qualities of Rue is so great that a special charm, the Cimaruta or "Sprig of Rue" is worn as a pendant to ward off the evil eye. It is always made of sterling silver (the most common metal for apotropaic charms, due to the metal's symbolic association with the moon, which is thought to protect women and children, (the most frequent victims of the evil eye) and it is most often found in the vicinity of Naples, where generations of artisans have developed a variety of Cimaruta designs.
MAGICAL PROPERTIES:
GENDER: Masculine
PLANET: Mars, Sun
ELEMENT: Fire
DIETIES: Mars, Diana, Aradia
Jul 9, 2009
Tarot Shadow Work- Inferiority
The third position in the star of discover is inferiority. This is where I lack most confidence in my abilities and plays a key role in my adult life as it is now. The card that I drew for this position was The Moon, among it's shadow attributes are times of doubt and confusion about my feelings...my indecision and passivity...my avoidance of intense feelings and the constant feeling of everything being clouded or vague.
The question that I find myself pondering is "What event or situation from my past has helped this shadow grow...did my parents play a role?" My answer would have to be a resounding "Yes." As a child I was never really aware of how the adults and events in my life might shape my future but now, as an adult it is clear that by my mother's avoidance and codependency about my father's alcoholism as well as his suicide, all set the stage for me to see myself as inferior. In my childhood, I watched my parents' examples and heard their critical language and worked out in my childish mind that my needs and my wants were not as important as the irrational need to maintain some semblance of peace in a volatile, alcoholic home.
When my father made the choice to commit suicide, it was again reinforced in my nine year old brain that if I had been important to my father, he would have stuck around to watch me grow up. I still feel that odd twinge of resentment now and then that his selfishness over rode the fact that I saw him as a hero...someone who could do anything and had an air of super human talent.
In my adulthood now, I am able to confront these issues that I did not understand then and I realize my father's suicide and my mother's complacency did not have anything to do with me at all. The very nature of addiction can make perfectly rational and sane people act just as crazy if not more so that the person with the addiction. I had never even linked my inferiority issues back to my chilhood and how it might have made me who I am today but through examination of my shadow I can let all that misinformation and incorrect conclusions go. I can choose not to let that shadow control me anymore and that indeed is a very liberating feeling!
Jul 8, 2009
Could You Repeat That....Please?!
I've suffered from debilitating migraines for what seems like before dirt ( actually since puberty... to be exact) and like my mother, grandmother and her mother before her, it is a hereditary issue. I usually know when they're coming on because a few days before one hits, I become sluggish, clumsy and say the oddest words...you know, the ones that really don't fit the topic you're trying to speak about.... and when I can see the bewildered look on others' faces, I know I've said something really silly. So embarrassing by the way!
I've been taking a medication for a few years now called Relpax but for some reason it just doesn't seem to be doing it's job so I've been consulting with my Dr. about what we can do to lessen or prevent my migraines altogether. Yesterday, his assistant called me with a couple options the Dr. is kicking around...one is to try different migraine medicines until we find one thatseems to work better and the other choice is something called...now... are you ready for this? I definitely was not... anyway, it's called Prophylactic Medicine. I think my jaw must have hit the floor because you probably don't have to work too hard at guessing the visions dancing in my head as she was speaking!
It took me a few minutes to catch up to what she was talking about but in general it is a medication that is taken on a daily basis in order to prevent said migraines. It didn't have anything to do with ribbed latex products at all...much to my relief! I looked up what these medications were and among them was Depakote, typically a mood stabilizer for manic depression and other mental health issues but it has the side effect of heading off migraines at the pass so to speak. I'm not sure if I really qualify as moody per se but it would be incredibly nice not to worry about when a migraine might occur.
Jul 7, 2009
Tarot Tuesday
This week I'm very excited to introduce an oracle deck by Jessica Galbreth called "The Enchanted Oracle." You may recognize her name associated with her writing contibutions in the Faeries Oracle by Brian Froud but she too, is a highly talented artist. I simply love the gorgeous way her drawings seem to spring to life on this oracle deck, lending a mysteriously magical appeal to it's reading interpretations.
One card, Gothique talks about our shadows... what scares us. The message is that of recognizing our fears and facing them so that we can release them and move on. The extra that is presented with this card is “Fear Itself” – a journaling exercise to help the Seeker identify their fears and work them out.
The book begins with a short section on how to use the Enchanted Oracle, including the basics for using a pendulum and reading with the cards. The steps for performing a reading are given as:
1. Decide your question, and write it down.
2. Select the spread you are going to use.
3. Shuffle the cards.
4. Lay out the cards according to the spread that you selected.
5. Interpret the cards.
6. Write
I should be getting this deck today or tomorrow, I'm so excited I can harldy wait to feel these cards in my hand. Hopefully between today's blog and next week I can work with them and post a one card interpretation for next Tuesday.
Jul 6, 2009
Pond Ponderings
I was able to finish the water feature in my herb garden yesterday, and I might add that I'm rather pleased with my efforts. I scrounged up some rather lovely pond rocks and put a small bubbling fountain in the center that sends gentle ripples through the water. Now all I need a few water plants and some little fishies in it. Teasdale enjoys the newly revamped herb garden with water feature...Ooo, fresh water, just lean over the rocks!
I'm a bit worn out after planting digging and carrying rocks so today's blog will be a tad short. Tune in tomorrow for Tarot Tuesday.
Bright Blessings!
Jul 5, 2009
Serenity Sunday
What a wonderful Fourth of July I had! The kids spent the weekend with their father at the beach...they sent some great photos to me of how much fun they had...got to go plant shopping with the neighbor and help him plan and build his own pond and waterfall ....had BBQ beer brats with fresh blueberries and melon and a green salad with fresh organic tomatoes and then retired to the deck to enjoy all the fireworks brightly exploding in the night sky...ahhh, this is heaven!
My List:
1.) My kids
2.) My cats
3.) Good friends
4.)Planting flowers in fresh black soil
5.) Waterfalls
6.) Lowes garden center
7.) The smell of the BBQ
8.) Fresh blueberries and melon
9.) Crisp green lettuce with garden tomatoes...Mmmmm!
10> Ooooing and Ahhhing over the fireworks displays
Jul 4, 2009
Freedom: Another Word For Responsibility
We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect union, establish justice, insure domestic tranquility, provide for the common , promote the general welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our posterity do and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.
This is the Preamble to our United States Constitution, within the Constitution itself, there are 27 Amendments starting with The Freedom of Religion; Press and Expression and ending with limiting Congressional Pay Increases. How often do we reflect on our rights handed down from our founding fathers but hesitate to recognize the responsibilities that go with it. If freedom of religion is a right then this freedom is our responsibility to ensure that it encompasses all religions. We are all just a small part of a grander Universal Mind and each has been given the flame of spirituality within us.
We must acknowledge that freedom of speech means all speech...even the words we may find offensive or vulgar for if we put restrictions on types of speech and kinds of words then we must realize that we may run the risk of our very own speech becoming censored. Our responsibility in recognizing freedom of speech is to allow others to speak their mind and write freely without hindrance. It is also our responsibility to ensure that we speak and write within reason and without malice...freedom of speech is not license to slander or malign others with differing opinions.
So, this Independence Day, let us be thankful for not only our rights but the responsibilities that go with them. Our founding Fathers bore a great burden on their shoulders but they bore it with pride and great vision for all of us today... Happy Independence Day!
Jul 3, 2009
Those Dog Days Of Summer
1 : the period between early July and early September when the hot sultry weather of summer usually occurs in the northern hemisphere
2 : a period of stagnation or inactivity
Why do we call the hot, sultry days of summer “dog days?” Well, I had some fun looking this up and got a mini astronomy lesson to boot! Dog Days is the name for the most sultry period of summer, from about July 3 to Aug. 11. Named in early times by observers in countries bordering the Mediterranean the period was reckoned as extending from 20 days before to 20 days after the conjunction of Sirius (the dog star) and the sun.
Sirius is the alpha star in the constellation Canis Major. Canis Major is called the Big Dog, which gives Sirius its nickname of "the Dog Star". The name Sirius means "scorching," which may relate to its brightness as a star and its relationship to summer. It was because Sirius "disappeared," or joined the sun during the summer, that the saying came about. Ancient Romans believed that Sirius added its warmth to that of the sun's as they neared one another and that this was what produced the hottest days of summer.
The ancient Egyptians attached special importance to Sirius. An event called the heliacal rising of Sirius occurred when the star became visible in the east just before sunrise in the summer. The star’s dawn appearance signaled the flooding of the Nile which brought fresh soil and nutrients to the crop lands along the river, leading to fertility and good harvests. The heliacal temples were constructed so that the light of Sirius reached the inner chambers on this date.
So, after learning what exactly "The dog days of summer" meant, how about a few fun summer dog day activities?
Scavenger Hunt
Have a hunt with your kids or help plan one for the neighborhood gang.
You'll Need:
A list of common house hold objects that you know you have. Each team or child will receive a list and a bag for the items (make the lists before gathering the kids).
The lists can contain anything:
A dandelion, rock, Pill bug, worm, leaf, ball, roller blade...
Pre readers will need pictures. The object of the game is
to be the first team to find and retrieve all of the objects on the list. Play inside or outdoors.
Tent Time
Kids love to play in their own tent space. You can do it without the hassle of pitching a tent.
Use a plastic tarp over the clothesline with stakes at the corners. Cover the floor with a blanket or sheet.
Provide a picnic lunch, board games and other activities for the little campers. Using this instead of a real tent will prevent damaging the lawn. Kids can use it all summer long for a relief from the sun.
Rock Garden
During the morning, when the sun’s rays aren’t so hot and the morning breeze is still present, take a walk together, looking for rocks. Kids love rock hunting and with every new find will grow more excited. Tell them to keep an eye out for rocks of all shapes and sizes, watching for flat, smooth stones, as well as jagged, sharp rocks. Encourage them to use their imaginations and look for rocks that can be turned into animals, flowers, dragons or fairies once you are at home.
Jul 2, 2009
Anxiety Show Thy Face (part deux)
Last week I blogged about the second position in the "Star of Discover" and my card was The World. Today, I wanted to continue in my journaling about this card and maybe add a few things mainly for my benefit but if it happens to be beneficial to others as well, that's great too.
The main subject I wanted to bring up about the Shadow Qualities of The World... is fear of restriction. I struggle a great deal with this issue...it's always been my motto that "Ask and I will be more that happy to acquiesce but if you tell me what to do I will dig in my heels and maybe do the complete opposite....because I can."
After thinking about this quality I thought to myself, what a terrible philosophy to have actually... A little cooperation goes a long way and I'm quite aware of this so why would I hang on to such a belligerent attitude? I think it all boils down to the idea that if I cannot control my world completely, then I have no control at all and without control firmly in my hands the anxiety is absolutely overwhelming. Whew.... That's a scary revelation!
There are, however, some Shadow Gifts that The World offers as well....rather that seeing where I have negative issues right now, I must realize that gifts can come out of this anxiety issue as well. I can see it as one cycle in my life ending and another more positive one beginning...within myself there is solid ground...I am a whole person, maybe not perfect but complete none the less... I can realize my goals and I can wear the world as a loose garment rather than letting life happen to me while I'm making other plans.
Jul 1, 2009
Tarot Perfection
There's going to be a new tarot deck this next spring (2010) and I can't hardly stand it. I have never seen such artistry as is in this deck! Shadowscapes Tarot by Stephanie Pui-Mun Law will be published by Llewelyn next year and I can hardly wait...I followed each card as she has added it, put myself on her mailing list so I could get the latest updates...I believe I've even had dreams about holding this gorgeous deck in my hands...Oh my gosh, I'm a tarot stalker!
I came close to this reaction when Ciro Marchetti put out The Tarot of Dreams but it's going to be a close one. I have a list of "must have" decks...some I have already acquired since I started making my list but there are a lot more I've been drooling over, thinking to myself "someday." I remember when I saw the very first deck I simply had to have...it was The Baroque Bohemian Cat's Tarot and it seemed to snowball after that. Tarot decks, Oracle decks, whimsical decks, the Dreaming In Color Luman deck....I could go on forever....
I noticed the popular tarot stores also seem to contribute to my tarot delinquency especially Amazon...who can resist that "Buy Now!" button...well, I can tell you it surely is not me. Anyhow, I believe I digress a bit too much so check out the tarot card links...I know you won't be disappointed!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)