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March 03 Moon Four Thieve's Vinegar
The herbs can be fresh, powdered or whole. Please understand and make sure that you know this is absolutely not for drinking. Wormwood can kill a person. Put the herbs in the vinegar. Shake well. Let is sit in the sun for two weeks.
Open. Drop in six cloves of garlic. Cap it. Shake well. Let sit in sun for one week.
Strain. Pour into bottles or jar. Seal with wax .
Here is another: ********************************* Vinegar of the Four Thieves 3 pints strong white wine vinegar
a handful each of wormwood, meadowsweet, juniper berries, wild marjoram and sage 50 cloves 2 ounces of elecampane root 2 ounces of angelica 2 ounces of rosemary 2 ounces of horehound 3 g camphor Steep the plants in the vinegar for 10 days. Force through a sieve. Add camphor, then filter. Rub on face and hands and burn in room. Additionally, keep in small bottles for the vapors to be sniffed. Avoid contact with eyes.
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And a similar one:
Dr. Valnet's formula for an antiseptic vinegar similar to the vinegar of the four thieves is as follows:
wormwood 80g
rosemary, sage, mint, rue, lavendar 40g calamus, cinnamon, clove, nutmeg, garlic 5g camphor 10g crystallized acetic acid 40g white vinegar 2,500g Steep the plants in the vinegar for 10 days. Force through a sieve. Add camphor, dissolved in the acetic acid, then filter. Rub on face and hands and burn in room. Additionally, keep in small bottles for the vapors to be sniffed. Avoid contact with eyes.
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For a general room disinfectant, a common formula can be used as follows:
a handful each of lavender, rosemary, sage, rue and mint
apple cider -or- white vinegar Steep the plants in the vinegar for 4-6 weeks. Force through a sieve and strain into a mister bottle. Use to disinfect the air of sick rooms or to freshen the indoor air of rooms during the winter months.
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 Pocket gophers have an immense, yet secretive, impact on the landscape and the plant and animal life surrounding them. Everybody knows that gophers dig tunnels under the soil, but this does not change the landscape very much. Few people know, however, that pocket gophers might be responsible for many of the rolling hills in the Midwestern United States. Some scientists hypothesize that small mounds of dirt riddled throughout the prairies of the United States are from gophers. After hundreds of years of tunneling, little piles of dirt combined together to form little hills.
While pocket gophers’ impact on topography is important, more important is their impact on plant and animal life. They aid plants by tilling the soil. A gopher acts as a personal farmer to the plants in its range. Creating and refilling tunnels, they aerate the soil. They do eat some of the plants that they are supposedly helping. However, the region as a whole is better off with the gophers: they make room for new plants to grow by clearing out others. They do this not just with small plants like flowers but with larger plants, such as trees, too. Scientists credit gophers with helping to bring back plant life so quickly in the area around Mt. St. Helens. Effecting the soil and plants effects animals too. Pocket gophers create a certain surrounding that suits some animals better than others. Grasshoppers, for example, use the soil that gophers create by digging their tunnels. Grasshoppers lay their eggs in this fertile, arid soil. According to studies, this soil works better than all of the other soils tested: the gopher mounds give rise to more grasshoppers Frequently Used Moon Definitions And  Terms  Definition for Out-of-body experience: (dictionary.com)
a) a feeling of separation from one's own body, as observing it from a distance b) the dissociative experience of observing yourself from an external perspective as though your mind or soul had left and was observing your body Definition for Astral Travel: a) to leave the physical form via the astral body and travel into other dimensions - NOT RECOMMENDED because the physical body can sense the negative effects of what happens to the astral form b) A state in which the energy of living beings leaves the physical body(www.iespana.es/boabom/dictionary.htm) c) Also known as Out-of-Body experience, Astral Travel occurs when one's consciousness leaves the body and travels through space, time and other spiritual realms and levels. Such travel may be done in human or animal form. The sometimes tenuous connection between the spirit and the body during this experience is often referred to as the Silver Cord. (wolfmoongrove.com/Wiccan%20info%20pages/glossary.htm) You either have the gift or you don't. If you do, you will be able to astral travel with practice. Sometimes beginning journeys happen while during sleep. You wake feeling tired or 'not all there', that is because you were traveling and indeed were not in your sleeping physical form. Many times dreams that you 'think' were dreams were really journeys you took.  Cloud Scrying It's Written In The Sky Cloud Reading Most people, even if only as children, have spent time lying on the grass on a summer's day looking up into the sky and imagining they could see a dragon, a boat, or a great bird in the clouds. Cloud reading is an extension of this simple, relaxing joy and can be a unique and enjoyable path to greater understanding. The shapes and details you find important as you meditatively gaze into a bank of clouds will often be symbolic of your innermost thoughts and feelings. Subconsciously, your mind will seek out certain imagery within the cloud formations that may reveal veiled thoughts or answers to questions long pondered. from http://www.cloudgazing.com/clouds.htm  Thoth
The God Thoth is usually shown with the head of an ibis (a crane-like bird), or sometimes as a baboon with a dog's head. His other names are Tehuti, Sheps, or Dhouti. Thoth is the 'scribe of the Gods' and He rules over language and writing, mathematics, engineering, literature, astronomy and other similar disciplines. He is closely related to his wife Seshat. It was She who invented writing, but Thoth was the one who brought the knowledge to mankind.
Thoth is also involved in the judging of souls in the underworld. He manned the scale where a soul was measured against the feather of Ma'at. As the divine scribe, he also recorded the judgment. Thoth is said to be the original composer of the Egyptian Book of the Dead.
Intersection Of Ene
rgy And Spirit November 07 Sacred Plants
Crystals for Writer's Block
Harmonizing heart and throat chakras can bring improvement, insight and genius to the forms of communication from the heart to the mouth (or through the pen). You many want to consider these thoughts: Find another activity to spark your imagination. Inspiration can come from many forms. When you sit down to write, you do not have to start at the beginning. You can start in the middle or work backwards. Simply write down thoughts that come into your mind, randomly. Try writing an outline, if you haven't already. Plotting ideas can lead to a sentence, which can actually lead to a paragraph. You're on you way! In your mind, change the audience you are writing to. Consider writing as if you were going to write for a child or to a group of scientist. Change your identity. Imagine that you are someone else writing the material. Be that inspirational poet you admire or the explorer who just had a great adventure. Carry a notebook around with you to jot down a thought or phrase that comes to mind. When utilizing crystal energies, there are those crystals that have been used based on there color energies and metaphysical properties and those used traditionally through practice. Find a crystal that inspires you. Here are just a few suggestions: Blue and blue-green stones lend themselves with communication from the heart to the mouth and helping both energy centers in opening and balancing these areas and allowing their full potential to be realized in many ways. Chrysocolla This gentle, soothing, friendly. Excellent for Heart Chakra; flushes and heals heart blocks (loss, hurt, guilt, fear...) for allowingness, flexibility, self-forgiveness, peace of heart, patience. Keeps one in light, love, and healing daily. On Throat, expressing feelings, verbal and artistic creativity, thyroid. Also, heart bloodsugar, and emotional balance. High conductivity from copper draws out pain, heat (fevers, inflammations, arthritis...), Excellent therapeutic assistance for healing loss, incest, other traumas. Cleanses auric field. Dreams and Earth healing. Resembles Turquoise and its properties are similar to it. Benefits arthritis and other bone diseases as well as the organs of the digestive tract, and ulcers become less problematic. Relieves hypertension and stressful conditions due to fear or guilt. Helps one feel more comfortable speaking the truth. Help develop personal confidence. Historically used by musicians, perhaps because of its reputation for having healing properties for throat and lungs. Amazonite This solid Light blue/turquoise stone represents prosperity. Gentle friendly, calming, soothing; Opens throat, heart, and solar plexus centers for self-expression, artistic creativity, healing. Throat, thyroid, nerve and Brain paths. Reduces self-damaging behavior, increases straight posture of self-respect, confidence, grace, self-assuredness with communication. Great over a door to bring in new business. Green stone instrumental in distilling the raw information used for personal expression. It is a pale green form of Microcline, a potash feldspar, and is found in Brazil, U.S.S.R., and U.S. The best crystals are found near Pike's Peak. Soothes the brain and nervous system. Helps filter information and combines it with natural intuition. Enhances masculine qualities. Good for anyone involved in the arts. Chinese Writing Stone This is a limestone matrix with andalusite crystals. It is also called Porphory. It received the name Chinese Writing Rock or Stone because of the crystaline structure resembling the Chinese characters of the written language. The stone is found in the Yangtzi River Valley of the Hunan Province of China and also it is known to be found in the Auburn, California region of the foothills of the Sierra Nevadas. Chinese Writing Stone is a mineral that is used to help one access information from ancient texts and the Akashic Records. It is and excellent stone for dreaming, assisting one into a dream state. It is a stone of re-affirmation, re-alignment and re-commitment. It helps one to adjust to change, accept responsibility and stimulate originality. Clear Quartz Clear Quartz is thought to amplify both body energy and thoughts. It can assist in the creation of power, clarity of thinking, meditation, cleansing, clearing the aura, spiritual development and healing. Clear Quartz is considered the "stone of power". A dedicated healer. Pure white light passes through it easily, leaving all the colors of the spectrum unaltered and giving substance to the argument that Clear Quartz crystals can help balance all the elements needed to make us whole and fulfilled. Amplify whatever influences are present in an individual or location. Acts as a purifier and tunes into the frequency of each individual. Will unblock specific areas or organs blocked from transmitting or receiving the flow of energy throughout the body. Helpful in guiding our search for the meaning and importance of existence. Aids in meditation. Can be used in conjunction with any other stone or gem for specific physical problems. It will amplify the effects of individual stones and attune the treatment to the energy of an individual person. Andrew Pacholyk, MS, L.Ac. Peacefulmind.com Therapies for healing mind, body, spirit  Sacred Plants of the Winter Solstice
by Selena Fox 1994 Evergreens Holly Oak Mistletoe Ivy Frankincense Myrrh  Wolf-
Freeing Yourself
SHE DON'T TELL ME TO"
Every now and then, on my way home, I stop at a spot where the wild flowers grow, an' I pick a few... 'Cause she don't tell me to. I go out with my boys all right, But most of the time I call it a night before they do, 'Cause she don't tell me to. Sunday mornin', I'm in church- And my butt, and my back, and necktie hurt, but I'm in the pew, She don't tell me to. Any other woman I know would have tried to control me and it would be over- Plannin' on my goin' on my own way attitude. All of that stubborness melts away when I wake with her head on my shoulder, An' I know I've got to love her until my life is through, 'Cause she don't tell me to. Well, I got demons and I've got pride But when I'm wrong, I apologize like she's mine to lose 'Cause she don't tell me to. Well, I got dreams in this heart of mine, But nothin' that I wouldn't lay aside if she asked me to. 'Cause she don't tell me to. An' she don't even know that she keeps me lookin' for the next right thing to do- 'Cause she don't tell me to. Any other woman I know would have tried to control me and it would be over. Plannin' on my goin' on my own way attitude. And all of that stubborness melts away when I wake with her head on my shoulder. And I know I've got to love her until my life is through What else can I do? I love her... 'Cause she don't tell me to. She don't tell me to. Every now an' then, on my way home, I stop at a spot where the wild flowers grow, and I pick a few, Yes I do. BY: MONTGOMERY GENTRY
September 05 Nuit
NUIT
Lord of the Wild Hunt by D.J. Conway The Lord of the Wild Hunt is the most misunderstood of all the Pagan God's aspects. He is the Celtic male counterpart of the Greek Goddesses the Erinyes, deities who see that justice and what we call "fate" is carried out. Unfortunately, the early European Christians managed to covince people that the Lord of the Hunt was really their devil, who supposedly went out on dark, stormy nights and on Halloween to kidnap unsuspecting souls and carry them off to the Christian Hell. Actually, this Lord is very different from anything imagined by the Christians. The Lord of the Hunt carries out the will of the Goddess in Her role of recycling Mother and Fate. He makes certain that souls who are ready for the transformation from life to the physical death are in the right places at the right times to meet their destinies. It is also his duty to bring to jsutice those who have broken the laws of the Goddess. The story of the Wild Hunt or the Ride of Death is known all over Europe. The Nordic and Germanic cultures say this Ride is led by Odhinn/Wodan, or Erl King. Others were also were said to lead a Wild Hunt: Dietrich of Berne (Teutonic); the French Grand Huntsman of Fontainebleau; the Celtic deity Arawn; the Norse Lusse (an evil spirit in the form of a great bird of prey); and King Arthur. Even the folk hero Robin Hood (whose story goes back much further than medieval times) was a type of the Lord of the Hunt. He used his arrows to bring down and punish offenders. Many Pagan male deities can be identified as the Lord of the Wild Hunt. Arawn of Wales was the god of Annwn, the Underground kingdom of the dead. Gwynn ap Nudd of Wales was the King of the Faeries and also ruler of a section of the Underworld. The Dagda of Ireland was known as the god of death and rebirth. Odhinn had an aspect as Lord of Death. He was God of the Hanged, and collected his share of warrior-souls from the battlefields. His wolves, Geri and Freki, ran with Odhinn and the Valkyries when he led the Hunt. A shape-shifter, he produced the battle panic called "battle-fetter," a psychological state that caused men to be unable to act. The Danes knew Odhinn in his aspect as Lord of the Hunt and called him the Ellerkonge (Erl King), or king of elves. The Erl King was associated with the elder tree and with Hel in her aspect as Old Lady of the Elder. The Norse god Hod or Hodr, who slew Balder, was sometimes shown as a threatening god, wearing a death mask and a hood, very similar to the father of Robin Hood. In his night ride through the sky, the Lord was accompanied by a pack of spectral hounds (a Goddess animal), and great host of ethereal entities, who possibly represent theancestors of the person he is seeking. The Hounds of the Hunt are known by a variety of names. In England, they are called the Gabriel Hounds, Yeth Hounds, the Dartmoor Hounds, and the Wisht Hounds. The Irish called them the Hounds of Hell, while the Welsh knew them as the Cwn Annwn (Faery Hounds). The God in his aspect as the Lord of the Hunt is not to be feared, for, contrary to many stories, he performs his task with compassion. Without his gentle guidance, our passage at death would be much harder. We shouldn't fear the Father whose firm but compassionate correction of our mistakes helps us live a better and more spiritual life
One does not discover new lands without consenting to lose sight of the shore for a very long time. (Andre Gide)
 Creativity is allowing yourself to make mistakes. Art is knowing which ones to keep.
~ Scott Adams An artist is a dreamer consenting to dream of the actual world.
~ George Santayana Good design begins with honesty, asks tough questions, comes from collaboration and from trusting your intuition.
~ Freeman Thomas The aim of art is to represent not the outward appearance of things, but their inward significance.
~ Aristotle The secret of all effective originality in advertising is not the creation of new and tricky words and pictures, but one of putting familiar words and pictures into new relationships.
~ Leo Burnett  Fresh And UnfixedThere Is Only Now It can be easy for us to walk through the world and our lives without really being present. While dwelling on the past and living for the future are common pastimes, it is physically impossible to live anywhere but the present moment. We cannot step out our front door and take a left turn to May of last year any more than we can take a right turn to December 2010. Nevertheless, we can easily miss the future we are waiting for as it becomes the now we are too busy to pay attention to. We then spend the rest of our time playing "catch up" to the moment that we just let pass by. During moments like these, it is important to remember that there is only Now.
 Spell to Revive Magickal Powers
Spell to Revive Magickal Powers On the night of a Full or Waxing moon; anoint a purple candle with any oil that has special magical meaning to you. While anointing, raise energy and focus it into the candle. See it glow with magick! Light the candle and go outside or open a window where you can see the Moon. Place the candle on the ground or windowsill. Reach your arms out to the moon and say: ~Oh Dear Goddess of love and lightI ask for your power on this night.By the powers of the stars that shine above me, So shall it be.~ “Visualize your arms and hands soaking up the powers of the moon, and into your body. Snuff out the candle and leave it on your altar overnight. The next morning, repeat the spell to the sun, with this chant: ~Oh Dear Lord of the sky and sea, Lend your magick unto me.By soil, wind, flame, and sea, This is my will, so mote it be.~ “Soak up the powers of the Sun. Go to your altar, light the purple candle from the night before, and meditate on bringing out all of the qualities you feel a magickal person should be, for a minimum of 10 minutes. You can repeat this spell each night for 9 nights. But do not perform it at the dark of the moon. As for a good teleportation spell good luck.
EILAT Stone
Eilat stone, which includes (chrysocolla and malachite) (incl. turquoise). Excels in healing emotional and physical aspects of heart/lungs and Throat Chakra. Flushes out/heals hurt, fear, stress, loss. Antidepressant. Sinuses, mouth; Bone and tissue regeneration. Utlize on the Solar Plexus: Aligns the subtle bodies, harmonizes heart, mind, and body. Wholeness, peace of heart, self-expression, creativity. Balances yin/yang. Draws out pain, inflammation, fever. Andrew Pacholyk, MS, L.Ac. Peacefulmind.com Therapies for healing mind, body, spirit December 14 CougarCougar
Power, Swiftness and Balance By watching the swift movements of the cougar, one is keenly aware that no movement is wasted, no footing unplanned, in their quest for the item they desire. The cougar never wastes anything, but the grace of this hunter provides the young with nourishment and security. Cougars mark their home range, which differs from a true territory because the home ranges often overlap. The juveniles may establish a home range of from six to ten miles away. Within that area, the cat maintains a small resting range for its exclusive use while sharing the remaining hunting area with its neighbor. The cougar scrapes together a pile of leaves along well-traveled trails and marks them with urine. Any wandering lion respects the "No Tresspassing" sign and turns away to avoid conflict. Someone with "Mountain lion or Cougar Medicine" is likely to be very sure of his or her goals or purpose. They often prefer solitude, and have little regret in taking the easiest prey.  Buffalo
Abundance
The buffalo or bison is considered by many tribes to be a symbol of adundance for it was the meat of the buffalo that fed the people, the hides that provided clothing and shelter, the bones and sinew provided tools of survival. The Lakota's trace the origin of the sacred pipe to the appearance of the White Buffalo Calf Woman who promised abundance for the tribe as they honored, by prayer, the Great Spirit and all of their relations, meaning the other creations of nature. "Buffalo Medicine" means to bring a special honor, reverence or appreciation for all of the things that the Earth provides for her children.The Origins of the Buffalo Dance When the buffalo first came to be upon the land, they were not friendly to the people. When the hunters tried to coax them over the cliffs for the good of the villages, they were reluctant to offer themselves up. They did not relish being turned into blankets and dried flesh for winter rations. They did not want their hooves and horn to become tools and utinsels nor did they welcome their sinew being used for sewing. "No, no," they said. We won't fall into your traps. And we will not fall for your tricks." So when the hunters guided them towards the abyss, they would always turn aside at the very last moment. With this lack of cooperation, it seemed the villagers would be hungry and cold and ragged all winter long. Now one of the hunters' had a daughter who was very proud of her father's skill with the bow. During the fullness of summer, he always brought her the best of hides to dress, and she in turn would work the deerskins into the softest, whitest of garments for him to wear. Her own dresses were like the down of a snow goose, and the moccasins she made for the children and the grandmothers in the village were the most welcome of gifts. But now with the hint of snow on the wind, and deer becoming more scarce in the willow breaks, she could see this reluctance on the part of the buffalo families could become a real problem. Hunter's Daughter decided she would do something about it. She went to the base of the cliff and looked up. She began to sing in a low, soft voice, "Oh, buffalo family, come down and visit me. If you come down and feed my relatives in a wedding feast, I will join your family as the bride of your strongest warrior." She stopped and listened. She thought she heard the slight rumbling sound of thunder in the distance. Again she sang, "Oh, buffalo family, come down and visit me. Feed my family in a wedding feast so that I may be a bride." The thunder was much louder now. Suddenly the buffalo family began falling from the sky at her feet. One very large bull landed on top of the others, and walked across the backs of his relatives to stand before Hunter's Daughter. "I am here to claim you as my bride," said Large Buffalo. "Oh, but now I am afraid to go with you," said Hunter's Daughter. "Ah, but you must," said Large Buffalo, "For my people have come to provide your people with a wedding feast. As you can see, they have offered themselves up." "Yes, but I must run and tell my relatives the good news," said Hunter's Daughter. "No," said Large Buffalo. No word need be sent. You are not getting away so easily." And with that said, Large Buffalo lifted her between his horns and carried her off to his village in the rolling grass hills. The next morning the whole village was out looking for Hunter's Daughter. When they found the mound of buffalo below the cliff, the father, who was in fact a fine tracker as well as a skilled hunter, looked at his daughter's footprints in the dust. "She's gone off with a buffalo, he said. I shall follow them and bring her back." So Hunter walked out upon the plains, with only his bow and arrows as companions. He walked and walked a great distance until he was so tired that he had to sit down to rest beside a buffalo wallow. Along came Magpie and sat down beside him. Hunter spoke to Magpie in a respectful tone, "O knowledgeable bird, has my daughter been stolen from me by a buffalo? Have you seen them? Can you tell me where they have gone?" Magpie replied with understanding, "Yes, I have seen them pass this way. They are resting just over this hill." "Well," said Hunter, would you kindly take my daughter a message for me? Will you tell her I am here just over the hill?" So Magpie flew to where Large Buffalo lay asleep amidst his relatives in the dry prairie grass. He hopped over to where Hunter's Daughter was quilling moccasins, as she sat dutifully beside her sleeping husband. "Your father is waiting for you on the other side of the hill," whispered Magpie to the maiden. "Oh, this is very dangerous," she told him. These buffalo are not friendly to us and they might try to hurt my father if he should come this way. Please tell him to wait for me and I will try to slip away to see him." Just then her husband, Large Buffalo, awoke and took off his horn. "Go bring me a drink from the wallow just over this hill," said her husband. So she took the horn in her hand and walked very casually over the hill.
 Candlemas: The Light Returns by Mike Nichols It seems quite impossible that the holiday of Candlemas should be considered the beginning of Spring. Here in the Heartland, February 2nd may see a blanket of snow mantling the Mother. Or, if the snows have gone, you may be sure the days are filled with drizzle, slush and steel-grey skies -- the dreariest weather of the year. In short, the perfect time for a Pagan Festival of Lights. And as for Spring, although this may seem a tenuous beginning, all the little buds, flowers and leaves will have arrived on schedule before Spring runs its course to Beltane. 'Candlemas' is the Christianized name for the holiday, of course. The older Pagan names were Imbolc and Oimelc. 'Imbolc' means, literally, 'in the belly' (of the Mother). For in the womb of Mother Earth, hidden from our mundane sight but sensed by a keener vision, there are stirrings. The seed that was planted in her womb at the solstice is quickening and the new year grows. 'Oimelc' means 'milk of ewes', for it is also lambing season. The holiday is also called 'Brigit's Day', in honor of the great Irish Goddess Brigit. At her shrine, the ancient Irish capitol of Kildare, a group of 19 priestesses (no men allowed) kept a perpetual flame burning in her honor. She was considered a goddess of fire, patroness of smithcraft, poetry and healing (especially the healing touch of midwifery). This tripartite symbolism was occasionally expressed by saying that Brigit had two sisters, also named Brigit. (Incidentally, another form of the name Brigit is Bride, and it is thus She bestows her special patronage on any woman about to be married or handfasted, the woman being called 'bride' in her honor.) The Roman Catholic Church could not very easily call the Great Goddess of Ireland a demon, so they canonized her instead. Henceforth, she would be 'Saint' Brigit, Patron Saint of smithcraft, poetry and healing. They 'explained' this by telling the Irish peasants that Brigit was 'really' an early Christian missionary sent to the Emerald Isle, and that the miracles she performed there 'misled' the common people into believing that she was a goddess. For some reason, the Irish swallowed this. (There is no limit to what the Irish imagination can convince itself of. For example, they also came to believe that Brigit was the 'foster-mother' of Jesus, giving no thought to the implausibility of Jesus having spent his boyhood in Ireland!) Brigit's holiday was chiefly marked by the kindling of sacred fires, since she symbolized the fire of birth and healing, the fire of the forge, and the fire of poetic inspiration. Bonfires were lighted on the beacon tors, and chandlers celebrated their special holiday. The Roman Church was quick to confiscate this symbolism as well, using 'Candlemas' as the day to bless all the church candles that would be used for the coming liturgical year. (Catholics will be reminded that the following day, St. Blaise's Day, is remembered for using the newly blessed candles to bless the throats of parishioners, keeping them from colds, flu, sore throats, etc.) The Catholic Church, never one to refrain from piling holiday upon holiday, also called it the Feast of the Purification of the Blessed Virgin Mary. (It is surprising how many of the old Pagan holidays were converted to Maryan Feasts.) The symbol of the Purification may seem a little obscure to modern readers, but it has to do with the old custom of 'churching women'. It was believed that women were impure for six weeks after giving birth. And since Mary gave birth at the winter solstice, she wouldn't be purified until February 2nd. In Pagan symbolism, this might be re-translated as when the Great Mother once again becomes the Young Maiden Goddess. Today, this holiday is chiefly connected to weather lore. Even our American folk-calendar keeps the tradition of 'Groundhog's Day', a day to predict the coming weather, telling us that if the Groundhog sees his shadow, there will be 'six more weeks' of bad weather (i.e., until the next old holiday, Lady Day). This custom is ancient. An old British rhyme tells us that 'If Candlemas Day be bright and clear, there'll be two winters in the year.' Actually, all of the cross-quarter days can be used as 'inverse' weather predictors, whereas the quarter-days are used as 'direct' weather predictors. Like the other High Holidays or Great Sabbats of the Witches' year, Candlemas is sometimes celebrated on its alternate date, astrologically determined by the sun's reaching 15-degrees Aquarius, or Candlemas Old Style (in 1988, February 3rd, at 9:03 am CST). Another holiday that gets mixed up in this is Valentine's Day. Ozark folklorist Vance Randolf makes this quite clear by noting that the old-timers used to celebrate Groundhog's Day on February 14th. This same displacement is evident in Eastern Orthodox Christianity as well. Their habit of celebrating the birth of Jesus on January 6th, with a similar post-dated shift in the six-week period that follows it, puts the Feast of the Purification of Mary on February 14th. It is amazing to think that the same confusion and lateral displacement of one of the old folk holidays can be seen from the Russian steppes to the Ozark hills, but such seems to be the case! Incidentally, there is speculation among linguistic scholars that the very name of 'Valentine' has Pagan origins. It seems that it was customary for French peasants of the Middle Ages to pronounce a 'g' as a 'v'. Consequently, the original term may have been the French 'galantine', which yields the English word 'gallant'. The word originally refers to a dashing young man known for his 'affaires d'amour', a true galaunt. The usual associations of V(G)alantine's Day make much more sense in this light than their vague connection to a legendary 'St. Valentine' can produce. Indeed, the Church has always found it rather difficult to explain this nebulous saint's connection to the secular pleasures of flirtation and courtly love. For modern Witches, Candlemas O.S. may then be seen as the Pagan version of Valentine's Day, with a de-emphasis of 'hearts and flowers' and an appropriate re-emphasis of Pagan carnal frivolity. This also re-aligns the holiday with the ancient Roman Lupercalia, a fertility festival held at this time, in which the priests of Pan ran through the streets of Rome whacking young women with goatskin thongs to make them fertile. The women seemed to enjoy the attention and often stripped in order to afford better targets. One of the nicest folk-customs still practiced in many countries, and especially by Witches in the British Isles and parts of the U.S., is to place a lighted candle in each and every window of the house, beginning at sundown on Candlemas Eve (February 1st), allowing them to continue burning until sunrise. Make sure that such candles are well seated against tipping and guarded from nearby curtains, etc. What a cheery sight it is on this cold, bleak and dreary night to see house after house with candle-lit windows! And, of course, if you are your Coven's chandler, or if you just happen to like making candles, Candlemas Day is the day for doing it. Some Covens hold candle-making parties and try to make and bless all the candles they'll be using for the whole year on this day. Other customs of the holiday include weaving 'Brigit's crosses' from straw or wheat to hang around the house for protection, performing rites of spiritual cleansing and purification, making 'Brigit's beds' to ensure fertility of mind and spirit (and body, if desired), and making Crowns of Light (i.e. of candles) for the High Priestess to wear for the Candlemas Circle, similar to those worn on St. Lucy's Day in Scandinavian countries. All in all, this Pagan Festival of Lights, sacred to the young Maiden Goddess, is one of the most beautiful and poetic of the year.  Fully Committed To Now
Why We Are Not Shown The Big Picture Sometimes, we may find ourselves wishing we knew what our lives are going to look like or what gifts and challenges are going to be presented to us in the coming months or years. We may want to know if the relationship we're in now will go the distance or if our goals will be realized. Perhaps we feel like we need help making a decision and we want to know which choice will work out best. We may consult psychics, tarot cards, our dreams, and many other sources in the hopes of finding out what the future holds. Usually, at most, we may catch glimpses. And even though we think we would like to know the whole story in all its details, the truth is that we would probably be overwhelmed and exhausted if we knew everything that is going to happen to us. Thought creates action...- How to Discover What You Want-
October 26 Well of Water A well of living water dwells within you. Let it
heal your body, mind, and spirit. Today's Positive Affirmation: Today, I am drinking deeply from the stream of living water that dwells within me. Today's Positive Visualization: I allow myself to relax into the presence of God that dwells within me. In my imagination, I see this stream of living water flowing from a well that dwells deep within my being. As I relax, this divine water fills up my body, healing and restoring my cells to radiant health. My emotions become calm and peaceful as the living waters soothe me. My mind is cleansed of old limiting thoughts and beliefs by the power of this radiant energy. As my consciousness is filled with this exquisite force, the waters of life spill over into my world, transforming everything it touches. My home, family, friends, co-workers, pets, community and world are all enhanced by this incredible flow of light and love. I combine these images with the feelings of joy and let them go, knowing they will create the good things I am visualizing and thinking. Cherishing You
Falling In love With Yourself Many people, in seeking out love, tend to look outward rather than inward. Yet falling in love with yourself can be just as wonderful an experience as falling in love with someone else. While the idea of falling in love with ourselves may be perceived as conceited or selfish, choosing to fall in love with who you are is a powerful act of self-love.
Attract the Perfect Lover Gather the following and have ready:6 rose petals 1 tsp lavender1 tsp cinnamonrose quartzsmall piece of red ribbon1 penny 6-inch square pink clothgreen ribbon On the Friday of the waxing Moon, put the first six ingredients in the center of the fabric and gather the edges with your fingers and holding the pouch to your heart.Chant:Venus, Queen of Love, divine Bring the love to me that's mine Perfect, she or/he, and perfect me, Together we are meant to be. Venus, Queen of Love, so warm Bring my love to me without harm. Let nothing keep us now apart, Bring perfect love to fill my heart. Still holding the pouch against your heart, fill it with loving energy. Secure the pouch with green ribbons to seal the spell. Carry it on your person and sleep with it under your pillow. When the lover comes to you, bury the pouch under a tree. HAPPINESS SPELL You need: A candle in your favorite color. 5 red rose petals.A picture of you as a child looking happy. Sit cross-legged on the floor and make sure you are comfortable, light the candle and spread the rose petals out around it. Put your picture in front of you and look deep into the flame of the candle. Relax for a few seconds and breathe deeply forgetting everything that is depressing you. Push all your unhappiness into the rose petal closest to you. Talk the rose petal and crush it in your hand and throw it away. Breathe deeply again and look into the picture of you as a happy child and chant"By the power within me, let happiness be.Dig up from the corners of my mind, the happiness and carefree of a child.Push away heavy thoughts, let happiness flow free.So Mote It Be." Chant this about 3 times, more if you like but no less. Close your eyes imagine being young and carefree. Then blow out the candle stand up and spin around anti clockwise in a circle 3 times. Get two rose petals close your eyes and rub them along your eyelids gently. Then go outside and bury the rose petals under a special tree.Submitted by Roseflame F. Healing the Rainforests spell Cast a circle Invoke elements by calling upon them in protective aspects (for example, you might invoke Watchfires or Beacons in the South). Chant the names of the Earth Goddess, beginning with your personal favorites, then naming as many as you can think of. Take a piece of green string. Begin to tie knots in it, while chanting: Tying the Cord, Renewing the Earth;We are Her Children, bringing Rebirth. (The knots may be simple or elaborate, but leave enough string to tie together at the end.) As you chant, see the world as a network of connected systems. Breathe the air that comes from the jungles of South America. Feel the living fire of an ocelot's power. Taste the rain on the leaves at the tops of the trees. Feel the delicate structure of the soil at the forest floor.) Tie the cord together in a loop; hold it up, strung around your two hands, and begin chanting: We are the Flow and we are the Ebb;We are the Weavers, we are the Web. As you chant, see yourself standing guard over the borders of the rainforest. See yourself with others, protecting rainforest as you would protect yourself, because that's what you're doing. Bury the cord in a container of earth. Earth the power; thank the Deities and elements; open the circle. Later bury the cord in the forest if possible. (If circumstances make the above impossible): Sit quietly and see: the network of ecosystems that make up the world; the rainforests thriving; plants and animals breeding; the Earth, green and filled with life; yourself, standing guard. Breathe, and know that the air comes from the sea and the jungles of Brazil. Drink and know that the water has been around the world, and circulates through you as it does through the air, land, and sea. Stand up and stretch; the strength of your body is the Earth's strength.Submitted by Kath H.
From: StarStuffs
Sacred Space
The organizers of the Mysteries did not leave things to chance. However vague some of their speculations may have sounded in the ears of the people, they were themselves dealing in as exact science as they were able to command. Hence, while the terrestrial 'East' was ever in the direction of the rising sun, a direction that describes a complete circle with every recurring twelve months, the celestial or true East was permanently situated in the sign of the zodiacal lion, or Leo, or the 'House of the Sun.' In every part of the world we always find the four cardinal points associated with the four elements, -- East, Lion, fire; South, Eagle (Scorpio), water; West, man, air; North, Bull, earth.
From Coven of the Grail-Masonic Mysteries
July 19 Tree MedicineTree Medicine
by Ken Johnson
European and Native American shamans share the belief that trees are inhabited by spirits and possess strong medicine or curative powers. All trees and plants have a very special healing relationship with human beings because they act as natural filters to clean refuse from our personal sphere, as well as the environment. The tree medicines that follow were known to Indians and early European settlers for maintaining good health and well-being on all levels. Some of these remedies are still in use today. ASH brings peace of mind, longevity, and protection against ruptures and wounds. Warts rubbed on the bark are absorbed into the tree and dissolve on the body. BEECH trees balance mental health as well as heal frostbite, skin inflammations, hives, swellings, and infertility. The future may be divined in the smoke of beech branches thrown into a fire. BIRCH calms the mind, gives beauty, and guards crops and cattle. The bark cures wounds, burns, ringworm, and ulcers. An honored branch thrown into a stream brings rain. CEDAR cleanses negative atmospheres. The boiled bark makes a good astringent and purgative. Cedar smoke brings good dreams. COTTONWOOD is intelligent and provides helpful medicine in most matters. Talk and listen to cottonwood when seeking a solution to troubles. OAK loves children. Its medicines include protection, prosperity, healing, fertility, vitality, and long life. Oak branches placed in a garden bring rain. SASSAFRASS medicine eases problems involving the teeth, eyes, and digestive system. Prosperity results when money is buried near the roots of this tree. PINES are messengers to the Otherworld. The cones symbolize fertility and abundance. Sit under a pine to recharge depleted energy, especially in winter. WILLOW aids in spirit communication, eases labor pains, and gives vital energy to the sick and aged. Burned alone or mixed with cedar, sage, and sweetgrass, willow smoke soothes and guides the souls of the dead. Tree Medicine for Clearing Negativity Find a private space out of doors where there are many trees. Select a tree from the above list or one that seems special to you. (If you do not have access to an outdoor area, use a house plant). Speak to it and ask permission to give it all the negativity you have gathered in your physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual bodies. Beginning at the top of your head, scrape the heel (the pinky side) of your right hand down the left side of your body, ending at your feet. Again, scrape your left hand down the right side of your body. Now, rub the heels of both hands on the trunk of the tree, thus releasing all the toxins gathered in your hands. Likewise, scrape the front and back of your body and give the toxic residue to the tree. When you are finished, thank the tree. Watch how strong and fast it grows!  First Law of psychic energy: All 'solid' objects are vibrating energy. Unseen waves are also vibrating energy- sound, radio, electricity, light, television waves, microwaves, x-rays, gamma rays and psychic energy waves. Second law of psychic energy: The mind is an 'energy station' which creates transmits and receives energy.
Third law of psychic energy: All living humans have a body made up of vibrational energy which is a duplicate of the physical body and will survive physical death.
Fourth law of psychic energy: The afterlife has different levels of energy which form different spheres according to the speed of vibration.
Fifth law of psychic energy: The more spiritually evolved a being is the brighter the energy of the aura. Sixth law of psychic energy: Slowing down the speed of the atomic vortices of the energy will result in materialization. Speeding up the vortices will result in de-materialization Seventh law of psychic energy: Energy is a 'boomerang' - the energy you give out will return to you.
The Alchemy Of Life
June 13 Druids Druids
"Often when the combatants are ranged face to face, and swords are drawn and spears bristling, these men come between the armies and stay the battle, just as wild beasts are sometimes held spellbound. Thus even among the most savage barbarians anger yields to wisdom, and Mars is shamed before the Muses." Diodorus Siculus Histories c.8 BC The reason we tend to visualise the Druid as an old man in our imagination is partly due, perhaps, to a realisation that by the time one has undertaken the training of Bard and Ovate one is bound to be ancient! If it took a dozen years to be a Bard, how much longer must it have taken to learn the skills of Ovate and Druid? We cannot be sure of the exact time it took, but Caesar mentions that it took twenty years to train as a Druid, although Stuart Piggott rightly points out that this could have been a figure of speech to denote a long duration of time, or that it might have actually been 19 years, since the Druids almost certainly used the Meton Cycle, a method of reckoning based on the nineteen year lunar cycle. It seems that whatever the period was, it included the earlier stages of Bardic and Ovate training. If the Bard was the poet and musician, the preserver of lore, the inspirer and entertainer, and the Ovate was the doctor, detective, diviner and seer, what was the Druid? His functions, simply stated, were to act as advisor to kings and rulers, as judge, as teacher, and as an authority in matters of worship and ceremony. The picture this paints is of mature wisdom, of official position and privilege, and of roles which involved decision-making, direction and the imparting of knowledge. We tend to think of the Druid as a sort of priest - but this is not borne out by the evidence. The classical texts never refer to them as priests, but as philosophers. At first this appears confusing since we know they presided at ceremonies, but if we understand that Druidry was a natural, earth or solar religion as opposed to a revealed religion, such as Christianity or Islam, we can see that they acted not as mediators between God and man, but as directors of ritual, as shamans guiding and containing the rites.  Emptiness Becomes Openness
Sometimes A Loss Can Be A Gain When we lose anything that we cherish, the sense of emptiness we are left behind with can be overwhelming. A space that was filled, whether in our lives or our hearts, is now a void, and the feelings of pain, loss, and separation can sometimes be difficult to bear. While it is always important to honor what we've lost, sometimes a loss can also represent a chance for a new beginning. When we are ready, the void left by a relationship, a job, or a dream can then be viewed as open space that can be filled with something new: new experiences, new knowledge, new job opportunities, new dreams, new people, and new ways to grow.
Breathe in.
Say a prayer. Make it for yourself. For the crotchety old man across the street. For the homeless woman you lied to when you said you didn't have change. For the fly you found flattened between the pages of a book. Say it in arabic, in english. Say it in tagalog. Say it formally, in classical speech patterns ensconced in well-worn flair. Say it like country music, like back streets; say it gruffly, say it with slang. Say it with a question of your own sincerity, because it's not of something physical in your chest this time. Say it with tears, sometimes. Then make it grow. Stretch its skin to circle the world like a womb. Make it a bandage, this asking; make it a balm. And breathe. Life is the first gift, Love is the second, and Understanding the third. ~Author Unknown~
 Did an answer create the universe? Or did a question? If one can describe religion as a system of answers and certainties about the cosmos, taken on and held in faith, has modern science become just another religion? What does honest inquiry into the natural world look like? What does the natural world itself look like? Baskets containing emptiness. Set adrift in a raft, on the vast ocean of the the world, two Trackers, grandfather and grandson, have a conversation, passing the eternity of the voyage, from birth to death… Do facts exist? Does certain knowledge exist? How would one build the case for such a proposition? And what would motivate such a quest? “Grandfather”, says the youth, “To where do we travel?”. “Ah,” smiles the elder, “to the ends of knowing, till we lose ourselves. May 11 Lust Oil
LUST AND SEDUCTION OIL
5 parts musk oil 5 parts civet oil 1 part ambergris oil 1 part patchouli or cassia oil LUST OIL 1/4 oz. olive oil 35 drops orange oil 20 drops carnation oil 15 drops citronella oil 10 drops rose geranium oil orange flowers garnet #20 LOVE OIL 1 pt. Almond 2 pts. Rose 2 pts. Lavender 1 pt. Bay 1 pt. Lemon color: red A special love oil formula from New Orleans. A favorite among prostitutes.  Earth Dragon This totem shows us our potential, our riches: what we are capable of.  The softest of all things
Override the hardest of all things. Only Nothing can enter into no-space. Hence I know the advantage of Non-Ado. Few things under heaven are as instructive as the lessons of Silence, Or as beneficial as the fruits of Non-Ado. :: Tao Teh Ching  When a wise scholar hears the Tao, He practices it diligently. When a mediocre scholar hears the Tao, He wavers between belief and unbelief. When a worthless scholar hears the Tao, He laughs boisterously at it. But if such a one does not laugh at it, The Tao would not be the Tao! The wise men of old have truly said: The bright Way looks dim. The progressive Way looks retrograde. The smooth Way looks rugged. High Virtue looks like an abyss. Great whiteness looks spotted. Abundant Virtue looks deficient. Established Virtue looks shabby. Solid Virtue looks as though melted. Great squareness has no corners. Great talents ripen late. Great sound is silent. Great Form is shapeless. The Tao is hidden and nameless; Yet it alone knows how to render help and to fulfill. Intertwined Fates There are times when we may feel disconnected from the world. Our actions can seem like they are of no major consequence, and we may feel like we exist in our own vacuum. Yet, the truth is that our simplest thought or action - the decisions we make each day, and how we see and relate to the world - can be incredibly significant and have a profound impact on the lives of those around us, as well as the world at large. The earth and everything on it is bound by an invisible connection between people, animals, plants, the air, the water, and the soil. Insignificant actions on your part, whether positive or negative, can have an impact on people and the environment that seem entirely separate from your personal realm of existence. Staying conscious of the interconnection between all things can help you think of your choices and your life in terms of the broader effect you may be creating.
Joy April 20 WishA POWERFUL WISH SPELL
This is a little complicated to describe but is well worth it. You need a piece of recycled paper (recycled notebook paper works fine). On the paper, write a short poem or chant to the Goddess and God that states your wish. It is alright if you aren't the best poet on earth! But it is very important that you say exactly how you feel and what exactly you need. Do your best and say it from the heart. Close the poem with thanks to the Goddess and God. Fold it in half with the words inside it. Draw a triple goddess sign on the outside. Now fold it in half again with the symbol on the inside. Now draw a pentacle on the paper. Finally, flip it over and write your name and birthdate on the other side. Put this aside in a safe place and your wish will come true in due time. If you change your mind before it comes true, burn the paper and put the ashes to the earth.  SPELL TO BRING (INSERT NEED HERE)
Purchase a new bottle of vanilla extract. Remove the cap and visualize a red light flowing from your Third Eye and coloring the liquid in the bottle. As the light flows into the bottle, chant : "Where I place you, you will draw (Need) from places near and far. You will bring (need) straight to me. As I will, so mote it be!" Recap the bottle and take it to your chosen spot. Sprinkle a few drops  Golden Rod
Botanical: Solidago virgaurea (LINN.) Family: N.O. Compositae Description Constituents Medicinal Action and Uses Dosage Other Species ---Synonyms---Verge d'Or. Solidago. Goldruthe. Woundwort. Aaron's Rod. ---Part Used---Leaves. ---Habitat---Europe, including Britain. Central Asia. North America. ---Description---The generic name comes from solidare, for the plant is known as a vulnerary, or one that 'makes whole.' It grows from 2 to 3 feet in height, with alternate leaves, of a clear green, and terminal panicles of golden flowers, both ray and disk. It is the only one (of over eighty species) native to Great Britain. The leaves and flowers yield a yellow dye. When bruised, the herb smells like Wild Carrot. ---Constituents---The plant contains tannin, with some bitter and astringent principles. ---Medicinal Action and Uses---Aromatic, stimulant, carminative. Golden Rod is an ingredient in the Swiss Vulnerary, faltrank. It is astringent and diuretic and efficacious for stone in the bladder. It is recorded that in 1788 a boy of ten, after taking the infusion for some months, passed quantities of gravel, fifteen large stones weighing up to 1 1/4 OZ., and fifty over the size of a pea. It allays sickness due to weak digestion. In powder it is used for cicatrization of old ulcers. It has been recommended in many maladies, as it is a good diaphoretic in warm infusion, and is in this form also helpful in dysmenorrhoea and amenorrhoea. As a spray and given internally, it is of great value in diphtheria. ---Dosage---1/2 to 1 drachm of the fluid extract. ---Other Species--- S. Rigida, Hardleaf Goldenrod, and S.Gigantea, Smooth Three-Ribbed Golden Rod, have leaves and blossoms which are valuable for all forms of haemorrhage, being astringent and styptic. The oil is diuretic. S. Odora or Sweet-scented, or Fragrantleaved Goldenrod, also of the United States, is used as an astringent in dysentery and ulceration of the intestines. The essence has been used as a diuretic for infants, as a local application in headache, and for flatulence and vomiting. The flowers are aperient, tonic, and astringent, and their infusion is beneficial in gravel, urinary obstructions, and simple dropsy. S. Canadensis, or Gerbe d'Or, of Canada, and S. sempervirens of North America, are used as vulneraries. RAYLESS GOLDEN ROD is an American name for Bigelovia. GOLDEN ROD TREE is Bosea Yervamora. GOLDEN ROD is also the common name of Leontice Chrysogonum  STINKING GLADWIN Descript : This is one of the kinds of Flower-de-luce, having divers leaves arising from the roots, very like a Flower-de-luce, but that they are sharp-edged on both sides, and thicker in the middle, of a deeper green color narrower and sharper pointed, and a strong ill-scent, if they be bruised between the fingers. In the middle rises up a reasonably strong stalk, a yard high at least, bearing three or four flowers at the top, made somewhat like the flowers of the Flower-de-luce, with three upright leaves, of a dead purplish ashcolor, with some veins discolored in them; the other three do not fall down, nor are the three other small ones so arched, nor cover the lower leaves as the Flower-de-luce doth, but stand loose or asunder from them. After they are past, there come up three square hard husks, opening wide into three parts when they are ripe, wherein lie reddish seed, turns black when it hath abiden long. The root is like that of the Flower-de-luce, but reddish on the outside, and whitish within, very sharp and hot in the taste, of as evil a scent as the leaves.
Entry into Fairy, The Deva Realm Hail Psilos, Guide and Guardian along the path between Binah and Kether. Hail Tehuti, Master of the stylus, the knowledge of mathematics and the arts. Hail Thoth, Teacher of Wisdom, magick, and the symbols of Tarot. Hail Hermes-Trismegistus,'Thrice-great' messenger of the gods Son of Maya and Zeus Master Thief Trainer of the Way of the Thief Father of Pan, the Wild Goat God Wielder of the Caduceus Patron to the Magi, the line of ancient adepts Inscriber of the Emerald Tablets Mercurial escort, bearing Psyche to the palace of the gods, where she partakes of the ambrosia of immortality Master Servant, Hanuman, bringing the Key of Solomon, the Egyptian Ankh of Life. Hail Merlin, Otherworld Guide, Arch-Seer and Prophet of the Druids Wizard and Founder of the Order of Istari, Dweller of the Island of the Blessed, Aman Mithrandir of the People of the Stars, and friend to all free ones We welcome an initiation into your Mysteries, A glimpse of your wonderful magick that is the essence of consciousness. Let the Dolmen-shape of the umbrella fungi soften the rain of your teachings as it gathers these waters of life in its sponginess. Allow our safe passage through your netherworld. Show us the fruit of our labors and ready us for the lessons we may approach. We would take your hand as you lead us down the spiral path into Faerie. We look to you for advice and encouragement as we will this transition. Let your spore-seeds inflame our awareness and self-understanding just as this return-offering burns to the ash of shed skin. May our journey through and out of the Underworld be pleasant yet fruitful. May we remember to trust our inner being as the source of manifestation and the center of existence. Thank you for your patience. Thank you for your compassion. Thank you for your humor. Thank you for your awareness. The flesh of the gods The blood of the gods Absorbed and encompassed, We enter the womb only to exit from the cave of our abandoned shell-self. In love, peace, and trust in all things We begin this adventure in a spirit of bright joy and tender blessings.
April 04 St. John's WortSt John's Wort.
Deity Baulder Planet Sun Gender Male Element Fire Medicianal: Pill: Anti-depressant There have been articles saying it does not work. While it doesn't make one sing from the rafters, it does help. Oil: prevents wound infections, stomach ache, colic and intestinal problems. Tea: used for uterine and menstration cramps. Magical: wards off fevers and colds- attracts love-makes soldiers invincible- Placed in a jar and in a window protects against thunderbolts, fire , and evil spirits. -Dried over a midsummer fire - hung at windows to keep out ghost, neromancers and other evil doers. - burned to banish spirts and demons.- use in rituals or carried to detect other witches.- enhances endurance and will when doing battle Cautions: skin sensitivity Avoid if using birth control, it will interfear with it. 
Crystal Ball The crystal ball is used as a divination tool used for scrying. It may be used to receive messages from the Gods, or to store raised energy. You can use it to call up images of the Goddess, or past lives. It is a magickal object touched by the divine, if you find one guard it carefully. In ritual it is placed on the altar to represent the Goddess. It may also be the centerpiece for full moon rituals. Periodic exposure to moonlight, or rubbing it with fresh mugwort, will increase it's ability.
The Crystal Ball by Sibyl Ferguson ISBN 0-87728-483-0-  Rune Magic
Types of Rune Spells
Materials and MethodsRunic inscriptions, rune scripts and bindrunes can be used in many ways. They can be inscribed on a talisman - a permanent, physical manifestation of the magic of the runes that a person would wear or carry around with them. They may also be used for more immediate purposes, by carving them into a piece of wood and then burning it, by scratching them into a candle and lighting it, or in any number of other ways. Making runes for magical use is a little bit different from making a set for divination, but the process of marking, colouring and naming them is essentially the same.Your choice of materials when making a talisman or spell is important, since this will be the medium which 'carries' your message and will add it's own peculiar energies to the process. A permanent talisman or inscription can be carved on anything you like, although (again) natural materials are best. Specific rune spells are traditionally sent by burning them, so your medium should be flammable if this is your intent. Paper or parchement is handy and will do in a pinch, but keep in mind that your average Norseman wouldn't have had access to such finery. Paper is also magically quite neutral, and while it won't detract from what you are trying to accomplish, it certainly won't add anything either. Rune spells and talismans were traditionally cut or scratched into wood. Of the few wooden runic artifacts recovered from that time, many were made from yew, which has a long history of association with the runes and magic. There are many other woods which have their own magical associations. For more information on these, see the Sacred Woods page. The process of creating a rune spell is a ritual in itself. The technique traditionally involved the following steps:
Purification Brew
Collect any nine sacred plants, such as vervain, rue, rosemary, oak, pine, acacia, rose, carnation, thyme, basil, jasmine and so on. Place in nonmetallic pot or bowl. Add rain water (or fresh water) and let the herbs soak, covered and away from light, for three days. Strain. Use for asperging the house, others, or yourself for purification.
The Complete Book Of Incense, Oils, & Brews
Scott Cunningham
ISBN 0-87542-128-8
 Past Life Crystals and Stones by June Kaminski, MSN Since ancient times people have used crystals, stones and gems for various purposes. The ancients attribute many spiritual and mystical properties to gems and stones. Various stones are helpful in aiding past life recall. Crystals and gems are natural energy conductors, which emanate piezo-electrical energy that can stimulate and balance our own energy. As you prepare to meditate, choose the stones or crystals that draw you, and place some around you. As well, place one or two in the palms of your hands as you meditate. This will facilitate the balancing of your energy and stimulate your past life memories. Fall asleep with these crystals near by to help you remember your past lives in your dreams. Carnelian - this orange-brown semi-precious stone helps us tune into our past life physical bodies. It helps us remember influences that shape our bodies now. It also helps us see how we can use past life information to better our present life. Lapis Lazuli - this deep blue, pyrite-flecked mysterious stone was popular in ancient Egypt. It is a powerful third eye stimulator which opens us up to profound past life visions. It helps us recognize old wounds, blocks and pains and to release these. Amethyst - this purple crystal is a profound bridge between the spiritual and the physical. It helps heal us of our inner hurts and inspires us to reach for higher levels. It helps us see the higher purpose of our consecutive lives. Clear Quartz Crystal - these remarkable stones restore balance within our auras and deeper energy fields. They awaken memories within us and help to harmonize our past lives with our current one. They help us to recognize why past life recall is important and worth the effort it takes. Hematite - is a gentle helpful gre-silver stone that helps us reach a light state of reverie during our past life recall sessions. It is particularly helpful during hypnosis sessions for recall purposes. Jade - this gorgeous green stone has been used since ancient times to put us in touch with the abundance and beauty of life. In past life recall it can help us to ground ourselves and to see the undeniable threads that weave in and out of all of our lives across time. Turquoise - sacred to aboriginal people, this light blue stone can help us connect to naturally based lifetimes in ancient tribal settings. Helps us to speak our truth from across the ages. Crystals, stones and gems are all powerful conductors of earth and light energy. They naturally awaken past life memories within us. They can also unlock memories of their own lives to us. After all, they have existed for millions of years! Stones carry impressions for a long time - impressions that we can intuitively tune into. Use them often to enhance your past life reveries. Site is optimized for all browsers - for screen resolution 800x600 - for 16 bit or better color. © June Kaminski, MSN <mailto:june@reincarnationcentral.com>- 2001 - 2002 -Reincarnation Central - All rights reserved. Design by June Kaminski, Visions of Adonai Design<http://www.visionsofadonai.com/>
March 06 Chamolie Teas
2.jpg "http://photos1.blogger.com/img/186/968/1024/Cards in Scrapmail 1, Series A (2005.02.21)2.jpg") Chamomile Teas
Chamomile tea is one of the most effective medicinal teas known. The gentle action of this herb makesit suitable for children and adults, and the tea can be safely used on a regular basis. To be prepared when stomachaches, insomnia, sore throats or cramps strike, keep a supply of chamomile flowers on hand.Be sure to buy Matricaria recutita, or German chamomile; this variety contains the highest concentration of the essential oils responsible for giving chamomile its healing power.Preparation of the Tea:In a teapot, place 1 tsp. of chamomile flowers per cup of water. Boil the water, then let it cool slightly (using boiling water will cause the various therapeutic compounds in chamomile to evaporate). For best results, steep the tea less than 5 min.Therapeutic Effect:The healing effect of chamomile is due primarily to the chamazulene and alpha-bisabolol in its essential oil. Chamomile has analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic and antibacterial effects. It also helps calm the nerves and induces sleep. In addition to being drunk, chamomile tea can be used in healing compresses of added to bathwater.For treatment of gastric problems:The essential oils in chamomile combined with other ingredients, such as sulfur and calcium, help relieve gastrointestinal inflammation. To ease pain and stimulate the digestion, drink 3-4 cups of freshly prepared tea daily for a period of several weeks.For relief of intestinal cramps:The flavonoids in chamomile tea can prevent gas and relieve cramps. However, for menstrual cramps, a chamomile tincture is better because its flavonoid concentration is a third higher than that of the tea.Take Care:Chamomile has been known to cause allergic reactions in people who are allergic to ragweed or other members of the daisy family. If you have such an allergy, you should avoid using it.For inflammation, restlessness and insomnia:A chamomile tea bath provides quick relief from skin inflammations, restlessness and insomnia. Add 1 qt. of chamomile tea to a bathtub full of warm water. For insomnia, take the bath before bedtime.For menstrual cramps:A chamomile tincture can alleviate menstrual cramps. To make the tincture, add 2/3 oz. of chamomile flowers to 1 ½ oz. of 100-proof alcohol and let it steep for 1 week. Strain and store in a dark vial. Take 10 drops in a glass of water.Chamomile Tea Mixtures:For gastric complaints:1 oz. chamomile2/3 oz. peppermint1 oz. carawat seeds2.3 oz. angelicaUse 1 tsp. of the mixture per cup of hot water. Steep the mixture 10 min. and strain. This tea soothes the gastrointestinal tract and stimulates digestive activity, making it useful for stomachaches or a too-full feeling.For cystitis:1 oz. chamomile1 oz. yarrow1 oz. sageUse 1 tsp. of the mixture per sup of hot water. Steep the mixture 5 min. and strain. The anti-inflammatory components of this tea relieve bladder pain and urinary discomfort. Drink as much tea as you wish daily until the inflammation has healed.For skin problems:1 oz. chamomile1 oz. dandelion2/3 oz. fennelUse 1 tsp. of the mixture per cup of hot water. Steep 5-10 min. and strain. The medicinal tea blend stimulates metabolic activity, which helps promote the healing of inflammatory skin conditions, such as abscesses, boils, and acne.grow your own herbs http://www.herbkits.com/  Thought on Independence
Your Days "And the wind said, may you be strong as the Oak, yet flexible as the Birch, may you stand tall as the Redwood, live gracefully as the Willow, and may you always bear fruit, all your days on the earth"
The universe, caught so percariously in the miniscule gravitational pull of one atom signify's the delicate nature of existance in cahoots with the largest cosmic prank ever pulled off. Somewhere there is a collection, a written account of such quantum activities oh here it is.
George Michael With a gun that he polished for a rainy day A smile and a quote from a vigilant movie Our boy Jimmy just blew them all away He said it made him crazy Twenty five years living hand to mouth Hand to mouth, hand to mouth, hand to mouth Sweet little baby on a big white doorstep She needs her mother but her mother is dead Just another hooker that the lucky can forget Just another hooker It happens everyday She loved her little baby But she couldn't bare to see her living hand to mouth Hand to mouth, hand to mouth, hand to mouth I believe in the gods of america I believe in the land of the free But no one told me (no one told me) That the gods believe in nothing So with empty hands I pray And from day to hopeless day They still don't see me (see me) Everybody talks about the new generation Jump on the wagon or they'll leave you behind But no one gave a thought to the rest of the nation "Like to help you buddy but I haven't got the time" Somebody shouted "save me" But everybody started living hand to mouth Hand to mouth, hand to mouth, hand to mouth There's a big white lady On a big white doorstep She asked her daddy and her daddy said "yes" Has to give a little for the dollars that we get Has to give a little - They say it's for the best Somebody shouted Maybe But they kept on living from hand to mouth Hand to mouth, hand to mouth, hand to mouth So she ran to the arms of america And she kissed the powers that be And someone told me (someone told me) That the gods believe in nothing So with empty hands I pray And I tell myself One day They just might see me
 The Nine Woods
The “nine woods” in the Rede of the Wiccae refers to the components of a ritual fire. Ritual fires are used quite often in Pagan rites, Beltane being the most common. The exact make-up of the nine woods is uncertain, and may in fact turn on regional wood supplies and/or group custom. This theory may be supported by the next line of the Rede of the Wiccae, which implies that you can burn different kinds of wood – as long as you don’t burn Elder. Nine woods in the Cauldron go – burn them quick and burn them slow. Elder be ye Lady’s tree – burn it not or cursed ye’ll be. The most commonly referenced “nine woods” are birch, oak, rowan, willow, hawthorn, hazel, apple, vine, and fir - although aromatic woods more common to North America, such as dogwood, mesquite, poplar, juniper, pine, and cedar are also sometimes mentioned. A ritual poem describing the nine woods is listed below. The Nine Woods
~Author Unknown Nine woods in the Cauldron go,
Burn them fast and burn them slow Birch in the fire goes To represent what the Lady knows Oak gives the forest towers might In the fire brings the God's insight Rowan is the tree of power Causing life and magick to flower Willows at the waterside stand To aid the journey to the Summerland Hawthorn is burned to purify And draw faerie to your eye Hazel, the tree of wisdom and learning Adds its strength to the bright fire burning White are the flowers of Apple tree That brings us fruits of fertility Grapes that grow upon the vine Giving us both joy and wine Fir does mark the evergreen To represent immortality seen Elder is the Lady's tree Burn it not or cursed you'll be  Angelic Hierarchy
The First Heavenly Realm - Heavenly Counselors
First Order - Seraphim
Second Order - Cherubim Third Order - Thrones The Second Heavenly Realm - Heavenly Governors
Fourth Order - Dominions
Fifth Order - Virtues Sixth Order - Powers The Third Heavenly Realm - Heavenly Messengers
Seventh Order - Principalities
Eighth Order - Archangels Ninth Order - Angels Descriptions Of The Angelic Nine Orders
First Order - Seraphim
The Seraphim are considered to be the highest of the Nine Orders and are said to be the Angels closest to the throne of God. They are beings devoted totally to love and represent God's Love in the purest form. They are in essence all that is love. They are said to be the lightest of all light beings, their light is so intense that the sun pales in comparison. Second Order - Cherubim
The Cherubim are considered to be the Angels of wisdom and knowledge. Their wisdom and knowledge is said to be incomprehensible to the human mind. They are also said to be responsible for keeping the Heavenly records in order. Basically they are Heaven's Bookkeepers. Third Order - Thrones
The Thrones are considered to be the Angels who fulfill Divine Justice. They are said to represent God's justice and authority. I like to think of them as God's Heavenly Police, serving justice when justice is needed. Fourth Order - Dominions
The Dominions are considered to be the Angels who govern. They are said to regulate the activities of other Angels lower in ranking. There has been some speculation as to whether they interact with humans as it is said that they rarely do.....but I am happy to say that 'yes' they do interact with humans! Especially to those human spirits who have achieved a higher Divine consciousness and are in need of spiritual governing. Fifth Order - Virtues
The Virtues are considered to be the Angels who keep order in the Universe. It is said that these Angels watch over the galaxies, planets, and all celestial life. They are the Divine beings who keeping order and make sure that everything is running as it should. These Angels also assist humans in finding their way to God, to righteousness, and to the glory of Divine Love. Sixth Order - Powers
The Powers are considered to be the Angels who are defenders and guardians of all that is good. They are said to be the Angels who keep the Universe safe from being ruled by evil. They assist humanity by helping humans make the right conscience choices towards good. Have you ever seen those little comedy routines where someone has two little Angels sitting on their shoulders? One Angel tries to convince the person to make the right choice and the other, which always resembles a little devil, tries to make the person make the wrong choice? Well, that little Angel trying to convince the person to make the right choice just happens to be an Angel representing the Powers Order!! Seventh Order - Principalities
The Principalities are considered to be the Angels who are the guardians of the Earth. They are said to be the Angels who are directly involved with the affairs of all humanity. They are very much like Spirit Guides only they have more Heavenly power and strength. Often Principalities can be seen working along side Spirit Guides. Eighth Order - Archangels
The Archangels are considered to be the Angelic Warriors Of Heaven who lovingly and bravely carry out God's Universal and Divine Will. They are said to work closely with those humans who wish to also carry out God's Divine Will. They carry with them strength, wisdom, and God's Divine Love. They maybe Warriors but they are Warriors with hearts of gold! Ninth Order - Angels The Angels, while considered to be the lowest ranking of all the Orders, are certainly not less than the other Orders. They are pure beings of God blessed with many talents and duties. They are God's messengers and the guardians of all souls.
February 27 Angels Angelic Information
Angelolatry - The veneration or worship of angels. Angelology - The study or science of angels. Angelophany - The visible or otherwise tangible manifestation of angels to human beings. Angels are spirits without bodies, who possess superior intelligence, gigantic strength, and surpassing holiness. They enjoy an intimate relationship to God as His special adopted children, contemplating, loving, and praising Him in heaven. Some of them are frequently sent as messengers to men from on high. In many religions such as Judaism, Christianity and Islam, it is believed that between God and mankind there are intermediary beings, called angels. They are bodiless entities that perform certain tasks for God and are commonly thought of as the messengers of God. Angels are good spirits, unlike their counterparts the demons. They are usually portrayed as having a human form, being dressed in long, white clothes, surrounded by a bright light and with long, swanlike wings. They were portrayed thus by artist, often on Church command, to alert the faithful that angels are more than human. There are cases, however, where angels appeared as ordinary men and were mistaken as such (the story of Lot, for instance). In the early stages of mankind, the belief in spirits was universal. The primitive man believed that there were no good or bad spirits. A spirit simply had powers, called mana, with which it could do either good or evil. With the emerging of Christianity and other major religions, the belief in these kind of spirits was condemned, and they became demons. The belief in angels and demons can be traced back to ancient Persian religion where there were two supreme beings: Ahura Mazda and his eternal opponent Angra Mainyu. The first represents good and the second represents evil. Both have followers and servants, angels serve Ahura Mazda, while demons (the Daevas) serve Angra Mainyu. Here the distinction was first made between good and evil spirits. In the Old Testament angels play a prominent role as the messengers from God. Also in the Old Testament the leading demon, Satan, is introduced. However, it was not until the New Testament that Satan was portrayed as Lucifer, the first of the fallen angels to rebel against God. In the New Testament, angels are present at all the important events in the life of Jesus. Here, they became more than just messengers; they are portrayed as the agents of God in bringing judgement to the world. Until the New Testament there were only two orders of angels; the Seraphim and Cherubim. St. Paul extended the number by adding seven new orders. They are, arranged according to their importance: Seraphim, Cherubim, Thrones, Dominations, Virtues, Powers, Principalities, Archangels and Angels. Archangels are higher in rank than Angels, but still they come eighth in the order of higher beings. Four of the most important ones are Michael, Gabriel, Raphael and Uriel. In Islam, it is believed that there are four Archangels who guard the throne of Allah. Source: Sarah's Archangels  Clan of the Frog
Elemental Chief: Water Elemental Totem: Frog Birth Totems within Turtle Clan: Woodpecker, Snake, Wolf Keywords Psychic Intuitive Sensitive Hyper-emotional With this final Elemental Chief, we witness the final stage of the process of Creation - the nurturing and harvesting of the Spirit. Hawk Clan is the Pathfinder that enables us to aim high and envision a world to be had. Turtle Clan Prepares the Way of the Spirit by clearing away "dead space." Butterfly Clan plants the thoughts and hopes so that Frog Clan can nourish the dreams of the mind, and bear the fruit of the Mind/Body/Personality integration. As such, the Frog Clan breaths fire into the spark of soul awareness, whispers to our Inner Self that more exists than can be seen by the ~physical~ eyes, and encourages us to reach for the fruit of the ~Great Spirit~ which is the Union and Merging of all parts into the One. Then, think on brother Frog as he dwells in Two Worlds at once. He is a creature that can swim underwater for extended periods of time, actually begins his life underwater, yet must surface for air, and later comes to dwell atop his lily pad, or on a tree near to a water source. In Earth Medicine, much as in traditional astrology, Water is representative of our feelings and emotions, while Air represents our mind and ability to detach. When there exists a Totem, be it Birth, Clan, Power Totem, etc, that is born of dual worlds (i.e. the dolphin or frog) who must exist in both worlds to live, then there is a special message for us as we observe these Animal brothers and sisters. For Frog Clan, those born under this Elemental Chief are blessed with an abundance of emotion, the ability to perceive the innermost feelings of others, to Understand the sacredness of Love in all of its brilliant hues and textures and to plunge the incredible depths of the Soul, so that a greater understanding can be had of both themselves, and their fellow Earth Dwellers. And yet, without surfacing for air, the frog will perish. So like sister Dolphin, frog must learn to co-exist in two worlds simultaneously. He must find the needed level of detachment (air) lest the emotions (water) and pain of himself or Others pull him under where he will surely drown. If one who is a member of Frog Clan chooses to operate from the lower octave of this element, he/she can become so encased in emotion that they are unable to extricate themselves and will drown in their own sorrow, venom or desire. Because the Frog evolves from the state of a tadpole to the adult form it later inhabits, a keyword for the Frog Clan is Transformation. Those of Clan of the Frog that choose to operate from the higher octave of their element, will spend their life in constant transformation and growth, ever seeking knowledge and wisdom that will lead to the unfolding and evolution of the Soul, coming to understand the depth of their feelings and emotions while learning how to channel those high level energies into ways of assisting Others along their path as they retain the necessary level of detachment. In this way, this clan completes the Cycle of Creation and the Fruit of the Spirit is borne.  Pan
 THE CIRCLE OF ART
The Circle of Art, or Magic Circle, is a fundamental part of modern Wiccan practice. The Magic Circle is cast at the beginning of most Wiccan ceremonies, to establish "Sacred Space," and to aid in the raising and focusing of energy. At the end of the ceremony, the Circle is opened, releasing the energy of the ritual so that it can become manifest in the physical world. We use the term Sacred Space to indicate an area used for ritual or magic. An area becomes Sacred Space when it is specially prepared to aid in the Shift of Consciousness needed to connect with the Higher Self in magic or worship. It is from the level of our Higher Self that we are able to work magic. There are many ways to create Sacred Space, but all revolve around the idea of cleansing the area of Negative Energy which might hamper the working, and the erection of various Energy Constructs whose purpose is to intensify the energy being worked with. The Magic Circle is such an Energy Construct. It is created from energy, shaped by thought and emotion. Though the Magic Circle has a strong symbolic aspect, it also has an objective reality which has a definite affect on the people inside the Circle. Because it is composed of concentrated energy, the Circle acts as a "Battery", giving extra energy to whatever is done inside it. Because it acts to focus the energy raised within it, the circle also tends to intensify that energy. In these ways the Circle magnifies the power of the people within it. It is this effect which is the principle purpose for its use. HISTORY The idea of holding ritual in a circle is very ancient, and in all likelihood derives from nothing more august than the fact that when people "gather `round" they tend to do exactly that -gather in a roughly round, or circular form. The circle allowed everyone to hold hands with everyone else, and to have the same general view of the proceedings. It was practical. A circle was a sensible way to gather around a central fire, or around a sacred tree, or an altar. The circle was also an excellent form for dancing, which has figured in Pagan rituals since the dawn of time. Many ancient illustrations in art and literature attest to the popularity of the Circle Dance in ancient times. Though frowned upon by the Book Religions, circle dancing remained a festival custom of European peasants into modern times, and is nicely illustrated in the works of Bruegels, among other artists. In De Lancre's famous illustration of "The Witches' Sabbat" several circle dances of this kind are shown. In Ceremonial Magic the circle was used for protection, since the Ceremonials often believed that the powers they were dealing with could harm them. But in Wicca the circle is not used for protection but rather to intensify the powers being worked with. HOW TO CAST A CIRCLE Casting a Magic Circle is a basic technique that every Wiccan learns. The more you do it, the better you will get at it, the easier it will become. You can use this technique for casting ritual circles in which to worship, and to cast circles to strengthen your magical workings. Not everything requires the use of a Magic Circle. The circle is used for worship ceremonies, but is not necessary for private devotions. Most spellwork does not require casting a circle either, but if a spell is really important casting a circle will generate much more energy for the spell. Generally only the individual can determine if they need a circle for a given spell -and once you have sufficient experience you will find it an easy thing to judge. Casting a circle makes for a longer and more complicated working, but it creates a much stronger effect. CLEANSING Before you set up your Magic Circle, you will first want to cleanse and consecrate the area. By cleansing the area you remove any negative energies which might be there, and by consecrating it you prevent those negative energies from returning. What are negative energies? Because energy responds to emotion, it can become charged with all sorts of feelings, which a psychically sensitive person can pick up on, and which can be magnified by magical working. Anger, fear, sadness -these and many other emotions can color energy, shaping that energy without conscious intent. The energy then holds these emotions, and can tend to pass them on to sensitive people. The stronger the initial emotion, the longer negative energy will tend to hold it. Sometimes energy will hold such a charge for a very long time. This is why certain places which have witnessed traumatic events can give us "bad vibes" -the energy of the place has been imprinted with the negative emotions experienced there. Most negative energy is not that focused however -usually the emotional charge is not so strong, and it diffuses over time. Most negative energy contains little bits of many conflicting emotions culled from many sources, which tend to give it a "muddy" feeling. This energy is unfocused and undirected, and can tend to make concentration difficult. By removing it you will find that you can work much more effectively. HOW TO CLEANSE There are many ways to cleanse your ritual space of negative energy. Techniques range from simple to complex, and can make use of many different tools. Some use water, some use smoke, others use visualization, while others use sound or ritual movement. With experience you will find the one that works best for you. But in this lesson I will simply give you a good technique that I think will work well for you: That is cleansing by salt and water. To do this you will first clear and release all excess energy, as you should before every magical working. Now place your hand over the water. Make three Tuathail (counterclockwise) circles over the water, concentrating on removing any negativity from it. Say something to the effect of: "Behold, I exorcise you, O creature of Water, casting out from you any impurities which may lie within!" Imagine yellow-white light pouring down from your hand into the water, and forcing out all negativity. Now make three Deosil (clockwise) circles with your hand over the water. Say something like: "And I do bless and consecrate you to this work!" Visualize the water being filled with a clear, bluish white light. Imagine the water filling with this light until it shines as brightly as if there were a blue-white sun within it. Now turn to the salt. Place your hand over the salt and make three Tuathail circles over the salt, concentrating on removing any negativity from it. Say something to the effect of: "Behold, I exorcise you, O creature of Earth, casting out from you any impurities which may lie within!" Imagine yellow-white light pouring down from your hand into the salt, and forcing out all negativity. Now make three Deosil circles with your hand over the salt. Say something like: "And I do bless and consecrate you to this work!" Visualize the salt being filled with a clear, bluish white light. Imagine the salt filling with this light until it shines as brightly as if there were a blue-white sun within it. Now say something to the effect of: "Behold, the salt is pure! Behold the water is pure! Purity into Purity then, and purity be blessed!" Add three pinches of salt to the water and stir. You have now made Holy Water. Take the Holy Water and go Deosil around the area in which you are going to erect your circle. As you go around the area, Asperge it -that is to say, sprinkle it with Holy Water. As you do this, imagine the area being flooded with yellow light. Let the yellow light fill the area, going out in all directions for a good distance. This is the act that actually sends out the negativity, so focus on it as strongly as possible. As you asperge the area, you may wish to say something to the effect of: "Behold I cleanse and purify this space." When you have made a full circle, replace the Holy Water on the altar. Turn to face the inside of the circle and say something to the effect of: "I bless and consecrate this space!" Now visualize the area being filled with a clear blue-white light, so it is wholly filled in all directions. You have now cleansed and blessed your ritual space, and are ready to cast the circle itself. CASTING THE CIRCLE Traditionally the Magic Circle is cast with the Athame, or ritual knife. If you do not yet have an Athame, you can use your Finger - point it just as you would the blade of the knife. Beginning in the East, point your Athame outward. The boundaries of the Magic Circle do not have to conform to the room you are in, but can be much larger -since the circle is an energy structure, it is not hampered by walls -so make it a comfortable size. Just be sure that you have cleansed whatever area you include in the circle, and that there are not other people wandering through it. Imagine a beam of light shooting out from the tip of the Athame toward the East. It is best if the light is white or red -red will add extra strength to it. Imagine this beam as being like a bolt of lightening, and focus on the strength of this energy. Send the beam of light out to what will be the furthest edge of your Magic Circle. Now begin to walk deosil (clockwise) around the circle, keeping the Athame pointed outward with the beam of light coming from it. As you walk, imagine that you are using the Athame and the beam of light to "draw" a boundary line out in the distance -imagine this boundary as a thick line of bright white light. Concentrate on this boundary being strong, and full of energy. The most important thing is to focus on the boundary being strong, but if you wish to speak there are a number of incantations which can be said during this process -a good example of which being: "Behold, I do cut apart a space between the realms of humankind and of the Mighty Ones -a Circle of Art, to focus and contain the power raised herein!" Continue on around the circle, until you return to the East. Imagine the end of your boundary linking up to its beginning, becoming a solid ring. Make sure that you and anyone you may be working with have done everything they need to do before the circle is cast, because once cast it is best not to "break" the circle. That is to say, you do not walk through the barrier you have erected. This is because the Magic Circle acts as a containment, focusing the energy within it and making it stronger -every time the circle is broken, this effect is weakened, and a certain amount of energy "leaks out." If the circle must be broken, use the Athame to "cut a door" -that is to say, make an opening in the circle of white light you have drawn. You do this by pointing the Athame at the edge of the circle and imagining again the beam of light coming from its tip. Now imagine the barrier of white light broken at the point where the beam of light from the Athame touches it, and move the Athame Tuathail -that is, to the left- imagining the barrier of white light disappearing from that space as you do so. Open only enough space in the barrier for the person to exit, then immediately reseal the circle by moving the Athame back to the right (deosil) and visualizing the barrier of white light filling back in to become whole again. Basilisk The mythical king of the serpents. The basilisk, or cockatrice, is a creature that is born from a spherical, yolkless egg, laid during the days of Sirius (the Dog Star) by a seven-year-old rooster and hatched by a toad. The basilisk could have originated from the horned adder or hooded cobra from India. Pliny the Elder described it simply as a snake with a golden crown. By the Middle Ages, it had become a snake with the head of a cock, and sometimes with the head a human. In art, the basilisk symbolized the devil and the antichrist. To the Protestants, it was a symbol of the papacy. According to legend, there are two species of the creature. The first kind burns everything it approaches, and the second kind can kill every living thing with a mere glance. Both species are so dreadful that their breath wilts vegetation and shatters stones. It was even believed that if a man on horseback should try to kill it with a spear, the power of the poison conducted through the weapon would not only kill the rider, but the horse as well. The only way to kill a basilisk is by holding a mirror in front of its eyes, while avoiding to look directly at it. The moment the creature sees its own reflection, it will die of fright. However, even the basilisk has natural enemies. The weasel is immune to its glance and if it gets bitten it withdraws from the fight to eat some rue, the only plant that does not wither, and returns with renewed strength. A more dangerous enemy is the cock for should the basilisk hear it crow, it would die instantly. The carcass of a basilisk was often hung in houses to keep spiders away. It was also used in the temples of Apollo and Diana, where no swallow ever dared to enter. In heraldry the basilisk is represented as an animal with the head, torso and legs of a cock, the tongue of a snake and the wings of a bat. The snake-like rump ends in an arrowpoint.
February 22 JournalsResearch has proven that keeping a journal is very theraputic. It helps with depresion and helps keep ones mind alert and focused. It is a great way to get in touch with your inner self. Teachers and Doctors have found amazing results with their students and patients. How to begin: 1) Find a journal or notebook that pleases you. 2) Find a time and place that feels good. Make it an enjoyable time, light a candle, put on some mood music... 3 )Sit errect, breath deeply, and relax. 4) Write without worrying about spelling, punctuation... 5) As you write, become aware of an inner purpose or need. Or just enjoy the prosses. 6) Become attuned to your inner direction finder, and follow its lead. 7) Experiment, and observe yourself. 8) Trust the process, don't worry. For those of you who do not usually write, start small with just a few thoughts or ideas. It will grow and become easier as you go along.  Negative energy surrounding me ,
BEGONE !!! I SAY AND LET ME BE !!
Positive energies of the Solar rays ,
stay with me throughout the day.
So Mote It Be !
Negative energy surrounding me ,
BEGONE !!! I SAY AND LET ME BE !!
Positive energies of the Lunar Light ,
stay with me throughout the Night.
So Mote It Be !
 Brain Power Spell
For this spell you need a yellow candle, some rosemary oil, and a carving instrument. Carve the ward “clarity” lengthwise on one side of the candle and on the other side, carve the word “logic”. Repeat with the words “memory’ and “concentration”. Anoint the candle with rosemary oil. Hold the candle to your mouth and whisper:
“I set your task To bring forth what I ask: Improved memory And perfect clarity. I concentrate longer, My logic is stronger, With good will to all and harm to none As I speak it so it is done!” Repeat the chant nine times. Save some of the wax drippings for use in sachets. -Tammy Sullivan  Strength Spell
In your minds eye visualise your cousin physically rising up into the air and away from all her attackers......her attackers can be seen as little black figures all massed down below, and your cousin is rising majestically up and away from them, she is getting larger and larger as she floats upward, and most importantly, see her glowing with and bathed in golden light. She looks serene and happy and safe from all the little black figures below. As you see her golden, glowing figure rising up, say the following (where it says "name" in brackets, substitue her christian name);
(Name) is strong, never weak
Equality of worth in all she seek
(Name) has courage against her foes
(Name) is strong against all blows
(Name)'s attackers shall win no more
Her true worth seen forevermore
So be it!
Inspiration Jar Purpose: To bring on inspiration. For creativity.
By Janina Renee Many Cultures recognize a condition called "soul loss," wich can occur when traumatic events have fragmented a person's sense of being to the point of depression, fatigue, confusion, and a loss of center. Indeed, treating individuals for soul loss is an important function of shamanic practitioners. Gather candles, as many as you can get your hands on: old, new, and partially used, of every shape, size, color, and fragrance. In addition to whatever other candles you can find, be sure to include one in "your color"; that is, whichever color you feel best expresses your personal essence. If you are uncertain, or don't have a strong color preference, a list of "astral" colors is appended to this article. Beg candles from friends, explaining your need to them. The act of begging for candles is a Mexican tradition, and adds an important quality to the magic that isn't easily explained. (I believe it has to do with the fact that other people contribute to the construction of one's sense of self, so other people have the power to help repair the self.) Later, you will want to keep some extra candles on hand in case you need to return the favor. I call myself back to myself: Then, allow all of the candles to burn for a time as you resume your normal activities. You can relight the candles every evening and on dark mornings, if convenient, though it isn't necessary to repeat the recitation ceremony unless you want to. You may burn the candles untill they are all burnt down, or until you have achieved a reenergizing sense of integration. Astal Colors The colors that different astrologers attribute to the signs of the zodiac are often described as the "astral colors" of persons born under those signs, and can be used by those persons for all sorts of magical workings. However, if you don't have a strong affinity for the colors ascribed to you, go ahead and use whichever color you think most effective and in harmony with who you are. Aries~Red, white, yellow Note from me, Abby: I have gotten this article from Llewellyn's Magical Almanac. I highly recommend this book, it is loaded with so many magical tid-bits. I also recommend anything by this author.
February 16 Love DRESSED LETTER LOVE SPELLS TO ATTRACT LOVE FROM AFAR
First, let me start by saying that in my experience it is easier and more often successful to attract an UNKNOWN lover or mate than it is to get a long-lost lover to return from an unknown place, to turn a casual acquaintance into a lover by long distance, or to attract the attention of a specific far-away person with whom one has no personal link at all. Ask yourself, is your request realistic? (You might be surprised how often people request love spells to sexually attract a celebrity -- someone they may have only seen once at an autograph session!) Specifically, ask yourself, if you do manage to reach this person through preturnatural means, will he or she know how to contact you in return? Does the person you desire have your telephone number, email address, or street address? Do you have friends in common who could pass a message? If not, all you may be doing by working attraction love spells from afar is inflicting a "dream love" on the object of your affections. He or she may dream or day-dream about you but, not be able to contact you. Possibly, not even knowing your name or if you are real person or a figment of the imagination, he or she will chalk the whole attraction experience up to "strange ideas" and the two of you will never meet in person. I personally have had numerous "love-dreams" in which i met and made love with total strangers. Were they men who had read my books or web pages and were trying to contact me from afar? I'll never know! They seemed to be "real people," but i never have met them in the flesh. The same goes for people i used to know -- i have dreamed quite wonderfully of men i liked years ago in school, renewing our friendships, even becoming lovers in these dreams -- but i have no idea where they live now, or how to contact them. If they were working love spells on me, they left out an important factor: i got the "message," but i could not figure out a way to get in touch with them in return. Okay, so let us assume that you DO know where the person you desire lives, that he or she knows where you live, that the two of you have some sort of established form of prior communication, and that he or she actually opens and touches his or her personal mail. In that case, it is indeed possible to work love spells to attract and draw him or her closer from afar. Use one of the love spells described above, such as the lodestone and candle love spell or the 3-candle love spell and augment its strength by following it immediately with this love spell, in which you send the person a dressed letter. Assemble the following items: a love-drawing herbal or mineral bath formula (e.g. Love Herbs, Follow Me Boy Bath Crystals, Come  A 3-CANDLE LOVE SPELL TO ATTRACT LOVE, ROMANCE, AND PASSION
Preparation: This is a 9-day love spell that uses three candles -- white, pink, and red -- to successively attract someone, then induce romantic feelings in them, and finally engender passion. Here's what you will need: 1 White "Bride and Groom" candle or other white figural couple candle 1 Pink "Bride and Groom" candle or other pink figural couple candle 1 Red "Bride and Groom" candle or other red figural couple candle a nail or needle to carve the candles a saucer for the candles a basin for water three pieces of paper a pencil a black ink pen a red ink pen. 1 bottle herb-based Love-Drawing Dressing Oil such as Love Me (general purpose lover's oil) Follow Me Boy (used especially for female domination) Come To Me (to draw someone closer) Kiss Me Now! (for sex without partnership commitment) Attraction (general attraction for love, money, friendship) Look Me Over (used to draw sexual attention to oneself) Lavender Love Drops (for gay or lesbian relationships) You can also use three different oils (one for each candle) or make up a mixture from any or all of the oils. Doing the Job: Before dawn on the first day, bathe in pure water to which you have added three drops of one or more of the oils named above. Pour the water over your head 9 times as you say, "Spirit of Love, i do this work for love and love only, that i may be loved by [name] as i myself love [him or her]. Amen." Rub upward only as you bathe and dry yourself in the air only. Collect a basin of the used bath water, which now has your essence in it. Dress in fresh clothes, carry the basin of bath-water to a crossroads and throw the water over your left shoulder toward the sunrise. Walk back home and don't look back. You are now ready to start the work. On the 1st day, start at Sun-up. Take the first paper and write on it your full name and the one you love's full name in pencil, all in one stroke, without lifting the pencil from the paper, so that the two names form a circle and the end is joined to the beginning. Carve the full name of the person you love on the gender-appropriate side of the White Candle. Carve your full name on the other side and dress the candle with the love oil. Next, name the two sides of the candle, saying, "Spirit of Love, i name this woman [or man] [your full name] and this man [or woman] [name of lover]. As is done to this candle, may it be done to our thoughts." Place the name-paper under the candle, then dress the candle with your saliva, saying, "[Name of lover], love me as i love you. Desire me as i desire you. Come to me as i come to you. By my loving speech and tongue, be mine as i am yours." Light both wicks of the candle as you say this prayer: "Spirit of Pure Love, i burn this candle in pure love's name that i may be loved by [name] as i myself love [him or her] and that [name] will burn for my love as i burn for [his or hers]. Let our thoughts be one. Amen." Let the candle burn about 1/3 of the way, then pinch it out. On the 2nd day, again burn the white candle at Dawn, and say the "Pure Love" candle-lighting prayer. Burn it until it is about 2/3 gone. On the 3rd day, again light it at Dawn, say the "Pure Love" candle lighting prayer, and let it burn until it goes out, even all the way to burning the paper with your names on it. On the 4th day, start at Noon. Write both of your names on the 2nd paper as before, but this time use black ink. Carve and dress the Pink Candle as before and name the two sides as before, saying: "Spirit of Love, i name this woman [or man] [your full name] and this man [or woman] [name of lover]. As is done to this candle, may it be done to our hearts." Then place the candle against your bare body, between your breasts if you are a woman, or at heart-level if you are a man, saying, "[Name of lover], love me as i love you. Desire me as i desire you. Come to me as i come to you. By the link between my heart and yours, be mine as i am yours." Light both wicks of the candle as you say this prayer: "Spirit of Romantic Love, i burn this candle in romantic love's name that i may be loved by [name] as i myself love [him or her] and that [name] will burn for my love as i burn for [his or hers]. Let our hearts be one. Amen." Let the candle burn about 1/3 of the way, then pinch it out. On the 5th day, again burn the pink candle at Noon, and say the "Romantic Love" candle-lighting prayer. Burn it until it is about 2/3 gone. On the 6th day, again light it at Noon, say the "Romantic Love" candle-lighting prayer, and let it burn until it goes out, even all the way to burning the paper with your names on it. On the 7th day, start at Sun-down. Write both of your names on the 3rd paper as before, but this time use red ink. Dress the Red Candle. with oil as before and name the two sides, saying: "Spirit of Love, i name this woman [or man] [your full name] and this man [or woman] [name of lover]. As is done to this candle, may it be done to our bodies." Then, if you are a woman, dress the candle with menstrual blood or sexual fluid; if a man, dress it with semen, saying, "[Name of lover], love me as i love you. Desire me as i desire you. Come to me as i come to you. By the nectar of my body, be mine as i am yours." Light both wicks of the candle as you say this prayer: "Spirit of Passionate Love, i burn this candle in passionate love's name that i may be loved by [name] as i myself love [him or her] and that [name] will burn for my love as i burn for [his or hers]. Let our bodies be one. Amen." On the 8th day, again burn the red candle at Sunset, and say the "Passionate Love" candle-lighting prayer. Burn it until it is about 2/3 gone. On the 9th day, again light it at Sunset, say the "Passionate Love" candle-lighting prayer, and let it burn until it goes out, even all the way to burning the paper with your names on it. As the red candle burns to the end, again bathe in pure water to which you have added 3 drops of one or more of the oils named above. Pour the water over your head 9 times as you say, "Spirit of Love, i have done this work for love and love only, that i may be loved by [name] as i myself love [him or her]. My love is mine! Amen!" Set aside a basin of the bath-water. The next morning, sprinkle some of the bath water at your loved one's door step to mark it and then sprinkle as you walk to your door and mark it also. When you go to see the one you love, wear one of the love oils. If you write to him, dress the letter with love oil. Cleaning Up: Wrap up any left-over candle wax in a red cloth. Secure it with red thread, tie it, and bury it in your back yard.  To Me Bath Crystals, Attraction Bath Crystals, Love
Me Bath Crystals, etc.) a love drawing candle (e.g. a Bolivian couple candle, lovers candle, genitalia candle, or whatever you choose) a love-drawing dressing oil for the candle (e.g. Follow Me Boy Oil, Come To Me Oil, Attraction Oil, Love Me Oil, Fast Luck Oil, etc. a love-drawing incense (e.g. Love Herbs to burn on charcoal, Follow Me Boy Incense, Come To Me Incense, Attraction Incense, Love Me Incense, etc. writing implements a pen, a piece of stationery, a matching envelope, and a stamp a small basin to contain some of your used bath-water Like most love spells, this one is best worked in the early morning before dawn, because it finishes at sunrise. Those who take the moon's position into account may wish to perform it as the moon is waxing or growing in size, because it is a spell for increase. Some women may prefer to perform it on the first day of their menstrual cycle, regardless of the moon's position. Those who work by the days of the week may prefer to perform it on a Friday, as that is the day sacred to Venus, the goddess of love. The choice is yours. Prepare the bath according to its directions or your common sense. Dress the candle, light it, and light the incense. With no other light than that from your love-candle, bathe in the love-drawing bath and save some of the bath-water containing your personal essence in the basin. Place the basin next to the candle. While still naked from your bath, and still with no other light than that from your oil-dressed love-candle, write the person you desire a sincere letter. Sprinkle the paper with a love-drawing sachet powder, then draw your fingernails down the paper in wavy "snake lines" to mark it. Shake the paper to let the powder fall away and set it aside. Address the envelope, dress it with sachet, mark it with "snake lines, shake it clean, and set it aside too. Next, formulate your specific desire, by which i mean get it very clear in your mind exactly what you want -- for instance, that the person contacts you, falls in love with you, visits you, has sex with you, marries you, raises a family with you, and/or spends his or her life with you. Once you have formulated your specific desire, focus the entirety of your WILL upon achieving the result you wish to accomplish. Then arouse yourself sexually by thinking of the person you want, and at the moment of orgasm, silently voice your COMMAND that the person must come to you and fulfill the conditions that you have willed. Immediately after, physically relax into a receptive posture and ACCEPT that as you asked, so shall it be done. After the moment of reverie and acceptance, touch each of the four corners of the letter with a bit of your sexual fluids. Place the letter in the envelope and touch each of the four corners of the envelope with your sexual fluids. Seal the envelope with a streak of your bath water and use the bath-water to affix the stamp as well. At dawn, dress in clean clothes. Carry the remaining bath water to a crossroads, throw it over your left shoulder toward the rising sun, and walk back home without looking back. Mail the letter at once -- if you can mail it on your way home from the crossroads, so much the better. In case you are curious about this love spell, the letter-dressing itself is based in hoodoo, but the three-part sequence of deploying one's will, command, and acceptance during a cycle of sexual arousal is a method of working taught by the 19th century African-American sex-magician Paschal Beverly Randolph, under the names "volantia," "decretism," and "posism". Volantia was Randolph's term for using volition or will to silently focus one's full consciousness upon a desired result; by decretism he meant making a decree or command at the moment of orgasm; and posism he described as relaxing into a receptive physical posture or pose after orgasm and gratefully accepting that what you have willed and decreed has come to pass.  "LOVE ME OR DIE": A JACK BALL TO GOOFER A MAN FOR LOVE This is a conjure hand for coercive love that was related to me by a 50-55 year old woman customer in a candle store on Maxwell Street in Chicago in 1965: She said, "If you want a man to love you and he absolutely refuses, you can goofer him to love you -- you know, make him *sick* to love you." Here is her recipe. You will need: his hair your hair a small John the Conqueror root Goofer Dust (or Graveyard Dirt) Love Me sachet powder a piece of brown paper (torn on all four sides from a paper bag) a waterproof ink pen that writes red a waterproof ink pen that writes black a brand new spool of red sewing thread a red flannel bag a sharp pen knife On the paper, write his full name 7 times in black ink, then rotate the paper and write LOVE ME OR DIE over his name 7 times in red ink, crossing it and covering it. Set the paper aside. Use the pen knife to carve a slit-shaped hole in the root and wedge your hair and his hair in there together. Then pack the slit tight with a mixture of Goofer Dust and Love Me sachet powder. Thoroughly wet the written-on paper with your urine and wrap it around the root, pressing and forming it as you would papier mache, to keep the hairs and powders inside. While it is still wet, wrap it up in the red thread, going round and around very neatly, like a ball of twine, until the paper is entirely covered. When you are done, tie the thread off with seven knots and leave a length of thread to hang it from. You can double or triple the hanging-thread for strength, and finish it with a loop for your finger. Carry the prepared root in a red flannel bag and moisten it with your urine when needed. Hold it by its hanging-thread to "operate" it, swinging it back and forth or round and around toward you as you call the man's name, to draw him to you. Get a rhythm going, and say his name, like this, over and over: "[First Name, Last Name], love me or die; [First Name, Last Name], love me or die; [First Name, Last Name], love me or die." "You do this," the woman told me, "and the man will either love you or he'll get real sick. If he gets sick, don't let up; just keep your urine wet on that thing, just keep working with it. That's the way you get him, you weaken him. When he is about finished, you can nurse him back to health. Then he's all yours." I have never tried such coercive love spells myself. I am too tender-hearted and also have had too many offers of love from willing men to bother to mess with men who were recalcitrant. I recommend that anyone who undertakes making such a "Love Me or Die" hand should be prepared to properly dispose of it if it is successful, or you may always have a sickly man on your hands. The making of this love spell is an exercise in working with pairs of opposites: The Love powder is mixed with Goofer Dust. The John root is male (looks like a testicle) and you cut a slit-like hole (a symbolic "pussy") in it to make him less strong and masculine, what they call "pussy whipped". You mix your hair and his hair up together, so he will be as obsessed as you are. You offer him the choice "Love me or die." When he gets sick, you nurse him back to health. The whole thing is about mixing opposing pairs -- male/female, love/death, sickness/health, him/you -- into one mess. By the way, the specific shape of this mojo hand -- a round object wound around with thread or string -- is sometimes referred to as a Jack or Jack ball, although my informant did not call it by that name. Most Jacks, hung from their strings, are used for divination, like pendulums, but some are carried in the pocket or in a bag, as a hand. The name Jack ball probably originally referred to the little rubber balls used for playing the children's game of Jacks, which used to be made of wound-up red rubber strings. Not all Jacks have a John the Conqueror root at their center, but since Jack is the diminutive form of John, if any Jack has a right to that name, this one does. 
Fertility Ritual Materials: 1 green practitioner candle, 1 white "full moon" goddess candle, 3 green rocks, 1 green glass, 1or more green plant(s), 1 fertility goddess symbol, 1 small piece of green paper, a pen/cil, patchouli oil, a cup of water, and a tbsp of salt. 1) Anoint candle w/patchouli (or musk). Set up alter as follows: place Goddess symbol at top center of alter. Place white candle at the left, slightly lower, to be left point of pentacle. Place green candle to the right, in line with white candle. Place the 3 rocks at the two lower points and in front of the Goddess symbol. Place the green glass in the center of the pentacle you have outlined. Put a pinch or two (or 3) in the cup of water, and the rest in the bottom of the green glass. 2) Center, cast your circle, and call the quarters inflecting on how each element can aid you in your request (i.e. - I call forth the East, Air by name, Upon your winds the seeds of life are sown, I now request your aid in the same, Aloft to the Goddess, make my request known.) 3) Invoke the God/dess inflecting on how each is essential for both fertilization and sustance of life. 4) State your purpose and reson for wanting to be or become fertile with a new life. 5) Do yor actual working. I did this by reciting a fertility request poem to the Goddess, asking her for a "late-life" chance at motherhood. I wrote my request on the green paper, and envisioned the child and I enjoying each other's company, and that of their older sister. I then burnt the paper in the flame of the green candle and dropped it in the green glass. The salt at the bottom absorbed most of the heat and kept the glass from cracking. I then doused the smoldering request with the salt water from the cup. "From Earth (paper), Sea (salt and water), Fire (flame), and Air (feeding the flame) we all began and shall end." 6) Thank God/dess and turn the request totally over to them. 7)Thank and release the quarters in the opposite direction as called (i.e. - I release to the North, Earth from this rite, With humble gratitude, Your assistance this night.) 8) Open the circle. Grounding may include releasing any extra energy to the plants you invited, the 3 green stones, or cleaning your alter and tools.
February 07 On a Budjet
The circle or the one is a Celtic symbol connected to many different cultures of the world both Celtic and none Celtic. Like all things it has many interpretations some say it is a representation of the moon or the sun some say it shows the circle of life, in that life has no beginning or end. Others say it is the representation of the eye of their god and or gods watching over them.
 The game of life is the game of boomerangs. Our thoughts, deeds, and words return to us sooner or later, with astounding accuracy.— Florence Scovel Shinn"
 Throwing away all of the seedheads after deadheading always seems like such a waste. Why not save a beautiful bunch to tuck into wreaths for outdoor winter decorations? That way you and the birds in your neighborhood can enjoy them. Tie the deadhead trimmings into bundles, using pieces of raffia or ribbon, and then just hang them outside where the birds can find them - a tree branch is a good location. Include coneflower, sunflower, hollyhock and sedum, and your bouquet is sure to be a hit! 
The Fabulous Thunderbird-The legend of the Thunderbird is an ancient myth that survives even to the present day in some Native American cultures. Though the Thunderbird myth varied from region to region and tribe to tribe, the Thunderbird was, in the eyes of the ancient Native Americans, a magical animal that was sent by their gods to protect them from the powers of evil. Riding on the wings of the storm, the Thunderbird embodied the power of the storm. Its eyes flashed fire, its cry was like the crack of lightning, and its mighty wings beat with the sound of rolling thunder, ever protecting its people from the powers of evil. There are at least three different legends of the Thunderbird available to us today, that can give us some information about what this creature was like. The first comes from the Winnebago Indians of the northern Midwest and Plains states, a second comes from the Passamaquoddy Indians of Maine, and a third comes from the Quillayute, a Chimakoan tribe living along the Quillayute River, a six-mile river on the Olympic Peninsula, near Seattle, Washington. The Winnebago were an ancient and powerful people that once spread out from Wisconsin all across the northern Midwest and Plains states to Nebraska. They believed that the Thunderbirds were powerful, eagle-like divine creatures that were able to affect the winds and created storms, lightning, thunder, and rain. They also believed that they could take the form of humans, and that some humans, though not actually Thunderbirds, shared their characteristics and were considered to be semi-divine. This thought is reminiscent of the "bird-man" concept prevalent at Cahokia , and it is believed that the Cahokians were related to the Winnebago peoples. Richard L. Dieterle explains in The Short Encyclopedia of Hotcâk (Winnebago) Myth, Legend, and Folklore, Thunderbirds are powerful and warlike avian spirits who animate the gray clouds with thunder and lightning. Together with the Waterspirits, they were the first spirits that Earthmaker created. Their name, Wak'âdja, means, "Divine Ones." On the model of other tribes, they are conventionally called "Thunderbirds," since they alone possess lightning. Their basic somatic form runs the gamut of several species of birds, the hawk and the eagle being the most common. However, they are far stronger in build and have polychrome plumage that gives them a magnificent appearance unrivaled by the birds of earth. Their voices are like the sounds of flutes, recalling both the whistle of wind and the voices of raptors. 1 Thunderbird figures from the Sacred Rock, Brown's Valley, Minnesota;Thunderbird figures from Washington County, Minnesota (top left), and from the Three Maldena Area in the Pipestone National Monument, also in Minnesota. The enemies of the Thunderbirds in Winnebago legend are the "Water Spirits". These became the enemies of the Thunderbirds in primordial times, when the Thunderbirds shot their lightnings everywhere, including the waters. The Thunderbirds still use their lightning when crossing the waters, as that helps protect them from the waterspirits. The Winnebago believed that all lightning was directed at Waterspirits, which lived in bodies of water, or in streams of water beneath the surface of the Earth. The waterspirits were the favorite food of the Thunderbirds, though they usually ate animals and sometimes even humans. 
Stepping Into ConsciousnessBeing Aware Life is a journey comprised of many steps on our personal path that takes us down a winding road of constant evolution. And each day, we are provided with a myriad of opportunities that can allow us to transform into our next best selves. One moment we are presented with an opportunity to react differently when yet another someone in our life rubs us the wrong way; on another day we may find ourselves wanting to walk away from a particular circumstance but are not sure if we can. Eventually, we may find ourselves stuck in a rut that we can never seem to get out of. We may even make the same choices over and over again because we don't know how to choose otherwise. Rather than moving us forward, our personal paths may take us in a seemingly never-ending circle where our actions and choices lead us nowhere but to where we've already been. It is during these moments that awareness can be the first step to change.
February 01 Friendship FRIENDSHIP CANDLE SPELL
Pink Candle Good Luck/Friendship Oil Pink silk Ribbon White Silk Ribbon Cast the Circle Arrange altar Invoke Goddess and God You will want to anoint the pink with Good Luck oil all the while thinking of the friends that you want to make. Imagine yourself laughing with them, going out with them. Really see yourself with them. After your candle has been anointed, you may light it. At this point you may call out the things that are important to you in a friend: honesty, trust, open mindedness, humor, whatever. As you light the candle, see the flame as being the energy that burns between any two close friends. When this is completed, take your two pieces of silk ribbon and weave them together. Simply winding them around each other will do. While you do this, think of bringing that friend closer to you. This binding process is reminiscent of pagan handfasting rituals. You are binding that friend to you, making them loyal to you, a way any good friend should be. You DO NOT want to bind a specific person to you, as that kind of magic is harmful since is harms the other person's free will. Only bind the idea of the perfect friend to you. Once you have done this, tie the ribbon to the base of your candle as best as you can. The candle's light is a beacon to bring friendship to you and another person. When this is done, you may wish to sit and meditate on the spell that you have just cast, sending your energies out to bring that perfect friend to you. When you feel that your spell has been completed, then it has. Let your candle burn all the way out and release your circle, thanking the Goddess and the God.  Autumn's Power Stones
by Stephanie Pflumm With the Autumn Equinox, many turn their Wheels toward the West. Following the perfect balance of light and dark on the Equinox we begin to slip into the realm of darkness. As Autumn deepens the gates and portals that separate the different realms become thinner. Many entities begin to hibernate, slow down their lives as the Medicine Wheel moves in the West. This brings Dreaming powers that you may also utilize. Use your Dreams to improve your perception. Allow the Dream to slow down the high speed chase that is your life, so that you can truly perceive what is correct and what is out of balance in your path. If you are willing, your Dreaming Mind will teach you many lessons Your intuitive skills will be stronger during Autumn. This is a good time to look down the road and consider the path you are traveling. Practice working with different divination tools; pendulums, cards, runes, stones, see if you find one opening up for you. Water is often the element associated with the West. It is a powerful divining tool and can be used with different stones, candles, the leaves of various herbs or by itself. What can you learn just by studying your reflection along the Water's surface? Nurture your creative interests during the Autumn season. Summer's light has passed and the long hours playing outdoors have disappeared for now. Explore your skills, consider making your own Yule gifts or take up a hobby you've denied yourself. Does some area of your life need transformation? As the transforming trees loose their leaves, use that energy to shed blocks or fears that have been holding you back. Autumn offers opportunity to change and prepare for what comes, rather than remain a victim of your life. It is a good time for offering prayer and to honor the gifts that have come to you. Since we are harvesting the fruits of Mother Earth, it is only appropriate that we show our gratitude. Ceremonies or rituals for honoring the West quarter of the Medicine Wheel are best performed at Sunset. Here is a list of some gemstones and crystals that can assist with intuition, creativity, transformation and other energies that are prevalent during Autumn. Amethyst - assists in opening the Crown Chakra, our body's physical portal for the Great Mystery. It also has been utilized as a powerful dreaming stone, assisting with bring prophetic dreams or bringing a more peaceful sleep. Quartz Crystal - probably the most popular of the psychic crystals, Quartz assists in enhancing intuitive skills, they are wonderful communicators and recorders as well, providing you with a means to remember what you have learned. Quartz is also highly protective and can be used for shielding during psychic work. Moonstone - was once believed to wax and wane in psychic powers with the Moon's cycles, those with Summer birth dates may achieve some excellent results in working with Moonstone's intuitive energies. Work with your Moonstone, get to know it and note if its power seems to fade and grow with the Moon. Lapis Lazuli - powerful stone for the Third Eye Chakra, your body's other important psychic center, Lapis Lazuli includes tiny Pyrite crystals which can provide addition protection during vulnerable moments Obsidian - Aztec and Mayan priests used polished mirrors of Obsidian for looking into the future. This crystal is also helpful in making obvious those parts of your life that need transformation. It shows you the truth. Blue Lace Agate - as your intuitive skills increase your ability to connect and communicate with your Guides and Angels increases as well. Blue Lace Agate aids in improving communication with these special assistants, plus it strengthens your Throat Chakra. Improving your ability to ask the right questions, to understand what knowledge raises your highest good. Aquamarine - another powerful gemstone for clearing and opening the Throat Chakra and connecting with Guides. It also improves organization skills, clears cluttered thoughts, allowing you to be open and receptive to the guidance of the Universe. Charoite - an excellent gemstone for transformation, this once dull Limestone that was transformed into a swirling joy of purples, blacks, oranges and greens and assist you in making the most dramatic changes in your life as well.  The Year Of The Dragon
When Buddah summoned all the animals, only twelve came, and as a reward, each of them was given a year. The dragon was among the twelve, hence the year of the dragon in the lunar calendar. 2000 1988 1976 1964 1952 1940 1928 1916 1904 If you were born on any of these years, you were born in the year of the dragon. If you were born before then, I congratulate you on still being here. People born in the Year of the Dragon are healthy, energetic, excitable, short-tempered, and stubborn. They are also honest, sensitive, brave, and they inspire confidence and trust. Dragon people are the most eccentric of any in the eastern zodiac. They neither borrow money nor make flowery speeches, but they tend to be soft-hearted which sometimes gives others an advantage over them. They are compatible with Rats, Snakes, Monkeys, and Roosters
 Cleansing Rituals by Emer Some things to think about before we begin. 1. Everything is energy. Humans, animals, minerals, plants, thoughts, emotions --- all of it. Energy. 2. When energy impacts an environment, it changes it. For good or bad --- it will change it. 3. Everything has a spirit (consciousness.) 4. You are part of everything else. What affects one part, affects all other parts. 5. Like attracts like. 6. Cleansing is healing. From the above, you should be able to understand the importance of cleansing the energy fields that make up you and your environment. Although we might not always be able to sense an energy imbalance; we are nevertheless affected by it. Some areas/buildings feel comfortable to us, while others may make us feel edgy, depressed or anxious to get out. After there has been a heated argument in a room, the atmosphere may feel heavy and dismal. You may even begin to feel irritable yourself. This negative energy, if allowed to exist and even grow (like attracts like), can adversely affect all the inhabitants in that area. In your house, it can even make you, your family, your pets and your plants sick. It will actually make your house sick. Animals are especially vulnerable as they act as buffers for us, and will absorb this negativity until they get physically sick. There, I've said my piece about the importance of cleansing your environment/home. When we cleanse, we're replacing undesirable energy (aka negativity) with desirable or positive energy. Anything can be cleansed and probably should be from time to time. Your car, house, yard, farm, things, your aura. Anything. If you do a cleansing ritual or procedure with anger or fear of the negativity you are trying to release, you will only exchange one kind of negativity for another. You gain nothing. Always enter into any cleansing process with an attitude of love. Negative energy is not bad or evil; it is simply energy that does not sustain you. Nothing is inherently evil --- it is our judgement of it that labels something good or bad. Now for a method. I will discuss one of the ones I use for I can speak from experience on these, although there are many other methods to achieve the same end. Use what works for you. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Smudging Smudging, (passing through smoke,) is an ancient method of cleansing that works quite well. I've used it to cleanse my house, and it's very good for smaller items and for cleansing your aura. When smudging a room, work in one direction, spiralling to the center. Which direction you use is up to you - try both. Counter clockwise is usually considered banishing; clockwise is invoking. I usually use Ceremonial White Sage, but garden sage works equally well. Pinon Pine, if you can get it, is super. Pine, of any kind, is generally thought to bring in desirable positive energy; while the sages are more for banishing the negative. Both can be used during the same smudging ritual. You can use powdered sage or pine on charcoal, or a smudge stick. I prefer a small wad of the leaves. Carry a heatproof container (ashtray) in your left hand; the smudge in your right. For a room, try to start near, but not in front of the door, sweeping the smoke into all corners; up to the ceiling and down to the floor. If you use leaves or a smudge stick, knock the ashes off often, so you won't catch anything on fire. It's a good idea to keep a container of water close by, just in case. Repeat the following, if you wish, during the smudging: ***From the Element of Fire Comes this smoke, which is Air. From the Element of Earth Grows this plant, which is Water. I call upon the Elements and the Blessings of Spirit To please cleanse this (area, space, being, etc.) For the good of all.*** Continue til every inch of the area has been touched by the smoke and you feel that you're done. As with any magickal rite, intent and visualization are important. Visualizing the movement of energy adds a lot of power to the cleansing procedure.
January 23 Raphael
 Raphael Raphael is the archangel in charge of healng. He exudes a beautiful emerald-green golw, which provides heaing energy. You can invite Archangel Raphael to enter your body and clear your chakras of any residual fear. Raphael will spin his green healing light around each chakra and help you to release all anxiety, guilt, or stress related to each chakra. Simply think or say "Raphael, please enter my body and clear me of any imbalances or negative energy now," and it is done. You can also ask Raphael to visit a loved one. The angels will never violate God's will, or a person's free will, so your angel invocation on behalf of another is a pure gift of love from God, the angels and yourself.
Dishwalla-Every Little ThingEvery Little Thing Let me into see you in the morning light I wish I could be every little thing you wanted lift me up I wish I could be every little thing you wanted Don't give me up
 "A talisman is nothing else than the seal, figure, character, or image of a celestial omen, planet, or constellation; impressed, engraved, or sculptured upon a sympathetic stone or upon a metal corresponding to the planet; by a workman whose mind is settled and fixed upon his work and the end of his work without being distracted or dissipated in other unrelated thoughts; on the day and at the hour of the planet; in a fortunate place; during fair, calm weather, and when the planet is in the best aspect that may be in the heavens, the more strongly to attract the influences proper to an effect depending upon the power of the same and on the virtues of its influences." Pierre de Bresche, in Traite' des Talismans, 1671 Talismans are created to attract or channel a certain energy, so have a single-pointed purpose and intent. They can be made out of parchment, metals, skin, paper, oils, wood, water--in fact, anything. But every substance has its own level of efficacy in holding the energy. Metals hold it well, and may last for ages. In contrast, the force bestowed upon water does not last long. Overcharging a talisman with forces that conflict may result in a cursed object. The Power of Talismans Talismans derive their power from: 1) The material from which it is made The material used as a base for talisman vibrates at a certain frequency and attracts certain energy. 2) The magickal design Magickal designs on talismans may be composed of sigils, seals, kameas (magic squares), symbols glyphs, prayer verses, sacred characters and images. The designs are like living astral 4D structures that attract the appropriate energy. Symbols and images speak to the imaginative, subconscious, and magickal aspect of ourselves, so act as a constant reminders and supporters of the intent of the bearer. 3) The embodied energy/force In the consecration rite, the magician attunes and invokes the appropriate energy and channels/condenses it into the talisman. 4) The innate, unconscious psycho-spiritual powers of the bearer--awaken through suggestion Belief is a strong influential principle. Beliefs are one of the causal factors shaping our reality. What we believe in has a tendency to occur in our lives. Suggestions strengthen beliefs, and these gradually become an attitude. Adapted from: Practical Examples: To protect Oxleas, London Dragon buried talismans in the wood. We each spent a lunar month preparing our talisman in our own way. They were then buried together during a ritual. Talismans can be useful for Court judgements - Give charged talismans to people who are due to appear in court for environmental action. Make Dragon Rune talismans for campaigners to wear or carry.Sigils A sigil is the magical signature of our intent. Sigils can be traced in air, carved on candles, drawn on paper and burned etc. Austin Osman Spare developed a fascinating method of sigilization: Formulate your intent in a simple sentence. Let's start with Spare's own example from his Book of Pleasure: 'THIS MY WISH TO OBTAIN THE STRENGTH OF A TIGER'. Jan Fries recommends distilling this down to: 'TIGER STRENGTH'. This sentence must be written down in capitals. Next, all the letters which appear more than once are deleted: TIGER S***N**H So, The following letters remain: TIGERSNH. The sigil is created from these letters. If you have letters that look similar from different angles (for example, M as a reversed W, or, seen from the side, as an E), you can combine them into one. The sigil should be as simple as possible with the various letters recognisable (even with some difficulty). You should try to make it to the best you can. The finished sigil is then drawn it on parchment, on paper, in the sand, or even on a wall. Implanting it into the psyche It is crucial that the sigil is internalised in a trance of sorts - a state of ecstatic euphoria (using drugs, dance, sex etc.), or in a state of physical fatigue. The important thing is that it should 'click'. Optionally, repeat the intent rhythmically and monotonously like a mantra, becoming faster and faster while staring at the sigil. The symbol should then be destroyed and deleted from the conscious mind. Spare's basic idea is that the sigil, together with its meaning, is be planted into the unconscious. Afterwards, the consciousness has to forget it so that the unconscious can obey its encoded direction without hindrance. Some suggest that it's useful to keep the sigil on you, but this will depend upon the individual, and everybody should find his/her own way. Nevertheless, it is of prime importance not to bring back the meaning and aim of the sigil into consciousness at any time.  If you can't feed a hundred people, then feed just one.
-Mother Teresa-  Don't take much notice of inner messages, particularly when they are incomprehensible. Not everything you are in contact with is wise or good. Messages are often sent as tricks to distract the mind and get you agitated, or maybe do something you would not otherwise do. A lot of these things are of human origin. Ignore all these things, and don't be distracted from them. The psychic level is the interaction of Spirit and matter. The pure archetypal states, of Divine Ideas, are reflected onto it, but these reflections are not the same as the archetypes, and tend to distract from it. Material things, and even sub-material things, can only be reflected of the pysche, which means psychic perceptions can be impure. Contemplate the pure Divine Ideas.
There is great power in repeating the thought of something you want over and over. When you got something you wanted in the past you probably thought about it frequently. Repetition firmly implants the idea of what you want to create in your subconscious, and it goes about bringing you what you think about. You want the thought to be definite and unwavering. Affirmations are positive thoughts that are repeated over and over. As you repeat them, they go directly to your subconscious where they begin to manifest as your reality. Affirm what you want in present terms, such as, "I have unlimited abundance," and repeat your positive statements frequently.
from the book "Creating Money" by Sanaya Roman channel for Orin. January 17 Storing HerbsSTORING HERBS
Place in a tight appropriate container, not made of formaldehyde or certain damaging plastic types, and seal with sealing wax to keep the air from getting to the herb. Be sure to wrap bottle well for storage, placing sufficient padding between, because broken glass from violent jarring, earthquakes, moving, etc., is dangerous. The stored herbs should always be labeled and dated, and then placed in some organized manner into an herbal medicine chest, cabinet, or closet. LONG-RANGE STORAGE For preserving herbs for long periods of time, the parts and plants should be put into liquid extract, tincture or syrup form. The tincture form will keep indefinitely as long as it is in a dark place, in colored glass bottles (the three-ounce size is good for the average need and easy handling) that should be well-stoppered and sealed.
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"The Ladder is a Shamanic motif that is present in many religions, it is something firmly placed on the Earth, which reaches for 'higher' ground. Each rung may be a representation of the people who go before us in spirit, trying to uplift humanity... I will hold the ladder for you,, if you will hold it for me....  Travel Alone
How long the night to the watchman,
How long the road to the weary traveler, How long the wandering of many lives To the fool who misses the way. If the traveler cannot find Master or friend to go with him, Let him travel alone Rather than with a fool for company. from the Dhammapada  Reconnecting
What was your dream before you stopped dreaming?
-Joanna Macy Search for your innermost song The one that no one can sing but you. Your song is your source of power. Your own song, however poorly sung, is better than someone else's song, Sung well. -Rod MacIver  Coming Out of the Dark
Nirvana is not the blowing out of the candle.
It is the extinguishing of the flame because day is come. -Rabindranath Tagore  There is often a fifth element mentioned, that of Akasha or Spirit. This is somthing that is DIFFERENT for each individual. You will have to personally discover all the associations that go with this fifth element that apply specifically to you, as an indvidual.
The elements, each and everyone of them are very magical due to the hidden and seen energies in each. I metioned an Elemental earlier I believe, an Elemental is simply Each element that is personified. Personified means giving human qualities, like love and hate, and kindness. If you believe that every thing on this planet has a soul, a spirit, an energy such as rocks, trees, animals, and humans, then it would be concievable to believe that each element ALSO has a spirit? Thus becoming an Elemental, you can summon an Elemental, but it is kinder to ask them to help or aid in your ritual or mission. However don't get me wrong there will come a time, if you practice any thing more the basic magick that you will summon. BUT you need to reach that level. So use your head, and your heart when dealing with the elements.
Resisting Control The right to make your own choices is a precious one. We grow when we have the freedom to decide our own paths and determine what makes us happy. Yet there are those who are inclined to try and control others. They may be driven by insecurity, envy, fear, or the need for power. These people are deeply critical of themselves in their own minds, and underlying that critical nature is unhappiness. Their need to feel sure-footed and secure is quenched by controlling those around them, whether they are friends, colleagues, or even pets. However, nearly everyone has found themselves imposing their will upon others at one time or another.
CIRLCE: A Circle can also be a loose gathering of Witches or Wiccans. Kind of like a coven but a lot less formal. It is most often just for sharing ideas and a gathering for general lessons.
CONE OF POWER: The Cone of Power is actually an amount of energy that is raised in the circle by the one or many Witches. The cone is raised by many methods, most often by dance and music, drumming, and chanting are some of the ways that helps raise or more accurately create a cone or an amount of power/energy. This power or energy can be sent out into the world to work magic, and it is usually visualized as being retained and built in the form of a "cone" prior to release, kind of like a tornado of energy. COVEN: A coven is a more formal group, an organized group of Witches. Within a coven you have Coven Hierarchy which is often led by a High priestess and sometimes the High Priest. A coven most often meets regularly for worship and fellowship. The traditional membership is 13, but in fact most covens number considerably less. 3 is considered to be the minimum. COVENSTEAD: The Coven stead is the regular meeting place for a coven. Often the home or land of the High Priestess or High Priest. CRAFT, THE: The Craft is another term commonly used to refer to Witchcraft or the practice of Witchcraft. CROSS QUARTER DAYS: Cross quarter days is the modern term for the Celtic Fire Festivals of Samhain, Imbolc, Beltane, and Lammas. These days have been adopted into the Wiccan Religion, but are actually important ritual days to the actual Celtic religion, which is not the same as Celtic Wicca. DEDICATION: Dedication is a solemn vow, commitment. DEOSIL: Deosil means clockwise, or sun-wise. Traditional Wiccan direction for working building magic. DRAWING DOWN THE MOON: Some folks refer to this as the ritual invocation of the spirit of the Goddess into the body of the High Priestess by the High Priest; others refer to it as actually drawing upon the energies of the moon. DIVINATION: Divination is the magical method of discovering bits about the future, past or present situations via such methods as Tarot cards, Rune stones or pendulum, etc. ELDER: The term Elder is actually a more Traditional Witchcraft term meant to denote someone that is of much wisdom, most often occult or Witchcraft wisdom and is worthy of respect. This term is not always associated with age. ECLECTIC: a mixture of beliefs borrowed from various Traditions and Theologies.  Tapestry- TapestryWe are forever creating the Tapestry of our livesDay by day, one stitch at a timeDiligently working to get things rightWeaving colors and patterns andstitching them togetherBlending the dark and the lightWorking diligently day, and nightOne by one, carefully putting themin there placeWe make many mistakes, we learnWe unravel the stitches, And createbetter onesTime and time again, Learning we can do even better witheach mistake we makeSometimes we need to backup and takea good luck at the tapestry that we createJust take a breakTo see how far we have comeFinding our self wonderingWhat have we created, and will it ever really be done ?Will it ever come together?This tapestry we makeOr have we really only just begunThe job seems as endless as a riverBlending all the colors in lifeinto a perfect harmonyA perfect balance for the world to seeWill it ever be doneOr do we just go on weaving andexpanding ourselves endlesslyCarefully unraveling the mistakes , andfixing themUntil they finally fit just rightDo we just go on creating a more and morebeautiful tapestry for all of eternityOr do we just weave on and on endlesslyAnd call this tapestry our lifeContinuing to expand our creationuntil our life or our existence on earthis doneAnd as we continue, Do we silently wishThat one day each of our tapestries willfit together perfectlyInterlocking with each otherstitched with pure loveUntil all the tapestries we have created become like one...love is all..jazJazmin G. > Sandra Williamson
January 11 Awenyddion
Dobhran - Gaelic for "Otter".
The Awenyddion
Among all the Gallic peoples, generally speaking, there are three sets of men who are held in exceptional honour: the Bards, the Vates, and the Druids. The Bards are singers and poets; the Vates, diviners and natural philosophers; while the Druids, in addition to natural philosophy, study also moral philosophy. -Strabo, Geographica (~100BC) This page is my tribute to the Awenyddion, "the inspired ones", the Bards and Ovates and Druids of past, present and future. It's also an attempt to describe a tradition which has as many definitions as it has adherents, these are the things I feel are most important and common across the tradition. Ultimately though the Druid tradition is like a mountain, a forest, a storm tossed ocean: words offer only the faintest glimpse of its beauty, power and magic.
"It is possible to describe Druidry as Earth-ancestor spirituality... the essence of the faith is still the honouring of the fertile Earth and the father/mother bringers of life and wisdom." -Emma Restall-Orr Druidry is a nature based spiritual tradition originating from the ancient peoples of the British Isles and Europe. Today it flourishes in the hearts of individuals and groups all around the world- Druids come from all walks of life and all cultural & religious backgrounds to honour spirit, in themselves and in earth, sky & sea and all that dwell thereon. The heart of Druidry is the quest for Awen, a Welsh word encompassing "inspiration" and "flowing spirit". Awen can be found any-where; in preparing a meal, walking in the bush or the celebratory rite at the peak of a season. For a Druid everything is seen as having or being filled with Spirit. When right relationship exists between two spirits then a bridge is created for Awen to flow. Creating these relationship bridges is the Druids quest. As part of the dedication to right relationship, Druidry has a commitment to peace. Peace not as an absence or a suppression of conflict but as an an acknowledgement of differences and a commitment to honouring and empowering all parties, including the earth and the spirit worlds. Druidry is a green philosophy, it honours the sanctity of the earth and the principle of Gaia; that the Earth is a living organism which humanity is just one part of. Modern living tends to isolate us from the earth and it's cycles, Druidry offers a way of re-establishing the connection. Eight times a year Druids come together for special seasonal celebrations; at the Equinoxes and Solstices and at the four "Fire" festivals of Imbolc, Beltainne, Lugnasadh and Samhain. The turning of the seasons from summer to winter and back to summer again mirrors the Druid belief in the endless spiral of life from birth to death to rebirth. Historically Druidry was an oral tradition, the ancient Druids are said to have had a mandate against writing down their teachings. Though today there are many texts about Druidry available there is no one "right" book or answer. For some Druidry is a philosophy, for others a religion & others a way of life, each person interprets Druidry in the way that is most meaningful to them.
January 02 Peacock Peacock - Wholeness.This bird, honored around the world for the beauty of its feathers, has also an association with resurrection. For us it can help in sheedding the old and drab feathers of the past and to claim our the true beauty of our individual natures. As such, it helps to enhance confidence and self-esteem. Rabbit- FearThe morewe focus on our fears the more we attract them to us. Rabbit medicine teaches us to attract to us abundance, love, health, and a warm, dry burrow. Polar Bear -Integration. To the Eskimo and Inuit peoples this animal is a source of both physical and spiritual sustenance. Spiritually, Polar Bear is considered the embodiment of the spirit of the North, an animal who holds ancient wisdom and has shamanic powers. One of the largest land carnivores, Polar Bear is, nonetheless, capable of great speed on both ice and earth and can swim one hundred miles without stopping. Raccoon - Dexterity, DisguiseThough Raccoon's mask is commonly associated with its so-called banditry (it has been know to open house doors with its clever hands in order to appropriate human food) the mask has a deeper meaning. It teaches us that none of us are quite what we seem, even to ourselves, that in our lives we can experience the freedom of many identities. This medicine helps us to assume and release the many roles we play. Robin - Growth and Renewal.Like many birds, robins are good parents, and one aspect of this power animal is the ability to nurture oneself into true adulthood. This concept also relates to Robin's traditional connection to spring. This is the season of renewal, and when we let go of the past (much of which comes from childhood experiences) we are renewed, and free to nurture and serve both ourselves and others. Seal - The Inner VoiceThe seal reminds us of our connection to our deep inner rhythms, feelings, and knowing, as represented by the sea. When we fear drowning in these depths, Seal reminds us how to swim. Salamander - Transformation.This animal helps to connect us to the mysteries of the earth and to feel grounded in the present moment.Some salamanders are terrestrial, others and aquatic; while in magical traditions, Salamander also relates to the element of fire, Skunk - Self-respect.When we fully accept who we are and learn to express the essence of ourselves, without ego, we attract those who share our path and repel those who don't. Skunk medicine is the original "Walk your talk." Salmon - Wisdom.Salmon journeys to its ultimate goal against all obstacles in its quest to be reunited with the Divine. The energy of this animal helps us develop the wisdom to find the meaning and purpose of our lives, and to move with perserverance on our spiritual path. Snake- Transmutation.As Snake sheds its skin so we can shed our illusions and limitations in order to fully use our vitality and desires to achieve wholeness. Spider- Weaver.As Spider weaves her web so we weave our realities. This medicine teaches to remember that we are the creators of our lives.that we are the creators of our lives. Squirrel - Gathering.Squirrel, in preparing for winter, gathers only what it needs. This medicine teaches us to discard not only unnecessary physical objects but those negative beliefs which limit our trust in love and abundance. Swan- Grace.Swan teaches us to trust the grace of our being as it operates in both the physical and spiritual planes, and urges us to rejoice in the gifts of our physical bodies and our intuitive minds. Tiger -Being in the Now. The tiger is one of the most powerful of the big cats. A solitary, silent hunter, it symbolizes removing all distractions from the mind and being purely focused on the present moment. Thus, Tiger is able to call on all of its abilities in order to achieve success. Turtle- Mother Earth.By following the example of Turtle we can learn to ground ourselves in the nurturing and protective energy of the earth and to flow with its energies at a pace which assures completion of our tasks. Whale - Record Keeper.Through the rhythm and patterns of sound Whale teaches us to hear our inner voices, to be in touch with our personal truths, and thus to know the wisdom and feel the heartbeat of the universe. Wolf- Teacher.Though the moon rises every night Wolf always finds something new to learn from it. We, too, in exploring the hidden paths of consciousness, may discover new truths to share with the rest of our clan, the human race. Zebra - Individuality. The zebra's distinctive stripes serves as a protective camouflage against predators, who are often unable to pick an individual out from the herd. For herd members, the stripe patterns, unique to each zebra, have the opposite effect of helping to identify individual zebras. This power animal thus helps us to both maintain our individuality in group settings and helps us to be supportive members of our communities. A third spiritual meaning for the stripes has to do with the integration of opposites, thus enabling us to see a deeper truth.
 Please note: Bach Flower Remedies and FES flower essences are noted respectively by (B) and (F). If you'd like to use flower essences in these combinations use 2-4 drops each. An Aromatherapy Potpourri Creativity:Oils: Peppermint, Orange, Rosemary Flower Essences: Blackberry (F), Indian Paintbrush (F), Iris (F), Nasturtium (F) Depression:Oils: Two drops each of Bergamot,Geranium, Melissa, Orange. Flower Essences: Gentian (B), Gorse (B), Mustard (B), Sweet Chestnut (B) Detoxification:Oils: 4 drops each of Geranium, Rosemary, Juniper Flower Essences: Crab Apple (B), Nicotiana (B), Sagebrush (B), Self-Heal (F) Fatigue:Oils: 2 drops each of Rosemary, Lavender, Peppermint. Flower Essences: Aloe Vera (F), Elm (B), Hornbeam (B), Olive (B), Peppermint (F) Meditation:This subject really deserves an article all to itself, as we meditate for different reasons and intentions. The following oils are good all-purpose ones. Two drops each of three of the following: Chamomile, Rosewood, Frankincense, Myrrh, Sandalwood, Vetiver. Flower Essences: Lotus (F), St. John's Wort (F), Star Tulip (F), White Chestnut (B)
Concerning the Mystery of the Sanctum Regnum, or the Government of Evil Spirits; being the Rite of Conjuration according to the Grimorium VerumTH E preparations of the operator prescribed by the Grimorium Verum are fully represented in the earlier chapters, but they may be summed here as follows: 1. An austere fast of three days; 2. Retreat or isolation from human society; 3. Abstinence from sexual intercourse; 4. The recitation of certain prayers and the performance of certain ablutions; 5. The composition of the required instruments. He must further devote himself to the invocations, lest memory fail him at the moment set apart for the work, and to insure mastery of the practice. He should also recite the following prayer daily 1--at Prime once, at Tierce twice, at Sext three times, at Nones four times, at Vespers five times, and six times before going to rest. It is explained that these hours are planetary and unequal. 2 Prime is reckoned at the rising of the sun, Tierce at three hours after, Sext at mid-day, Nones at three in the afternoon and Vespers at sunset. PRAYER 1ASTRACHIOS, ASACH, ASARCA, ABEDUMABAL, SILAT, ANABOTAS, JESUBILIN, SCIGIN, GENEON, DOMOL, Lord God, Who dwellest above the heavens, Whose glance searchest the abyss,. grant me, I pray Thee, the power to conceive in my mind and to execute that which I desire to do, the end of which I would attain by Thy help, O God Almighty, Who livest and reignest for ever and ever. Amen. These things being done, says the Grimoire, it remains only to follow the invocations and to compose the characters, to which end the operator shall proceed as follows:--On the day and in the hour of Mars, the Moon waxing, and at the first hour of the day, which begins automatically fifteen minutes before the rising of the Sun, a piece of virgin parchment must be prepared, containing all the characters and invocations of the spirits on whom it is desired to call. On the day and in the hour aforesaid let the operator bind the little finger of the (left) hand, which is the finger of Mercury, with a thread woven by a virgin girl; let him pierce that finger with the lancet of the Art, so as to draw blood, and form therewith the character of Scirlin, from whom all other spirits depend, since he is their messenger and can compel them to appear despite themselves, because he has the power of the Emperor to him deputed. His invocation, which must be written, is as follows:-- THE INVOCATION OF SCIRLIN HELON ✠, TAUL ✠, VARF ✠, PAN ✠, HEON ✠, HOMONOREUM ✠, CLEMIALH ✠, SERUGEATH ✠, AGLA ✠, TETRAGRAMMATON ✠, CASOLY ✠. With the confusion so common in the Grimoires, the character of Scirlin is not given, whence the operator who followed the instructions of this Ritual must have had recourse to one of the superior spirits. The instructions, however, are not described ad clerum, and it is scarcely possible to extract from them an intelligible method of procedure. The name and surname of the operator must apparently be written below the character of the spirit, following a prescribed manner, which is also omitted; the conjuration of the spirit must be added and incense burnt in his honour. CONJURATION TO LUCIFER LUCIFER ✠, OUYAR ✠, CHAMERON ✠, ALISEON ✠, MANDOUSIN ✠, PREMY ✠, ORIET ✠, NAYDRUS ✠, ESMONY ✠, EPARINESONT ✠, ESTIOT ✠, DUMOSSON ✠, DANOCHAR ✠, CASMIEL ✠, HAYRAS ✠, FABELLERONTHON ✠, SODIRNO ✠, PEATHAM ✠, Come ✠, LUCIFER ✠. AMEN. CONJURATION FOR BEELZEBUTH BEELZEBUTH ✠, LUCIFER ✠, MADILON ✠, SOLYMO ✠, SAROY ✠, THEU ✠, AMECLO ✠, SEGRAEL ✠, PRAREDUN ✠, ADRICANOROM ✠, MARTIRO ✠, TIMO ✠, CAMERON ✠, PHORSY ✠, METOSITE ✠, PRUMOSY ✠, DUMASO ✠, ELIVISA ✠, ALPHROIS ✠, FUBENTRONTY ✠, Come, BEELZEBUTH ✠. AMEN. CONJURATION FOR ASTAROTH ASTAROTH ✠, ADOR ✠, CAMESO ✠, VALUERITUF ✠, MARESO ✠, LODIR ✠, CADOMIR ✠, ALUIEL ✠, CALNISO ✠, TELY ✠, PLEORIM ✠, VIORDY ✠, CUREVIORBAS ✠, CAMERON ✠, VESTURIEL ✠, VULNAVII ✠, BENEZ ✠, MEUS CALMIRON ✠, NOARD ✠, NISA CHENIBRANBO CALEVODIUM ✠, BRAZO ✠, TABRASOL ✠, Come ✠, ASTAROTH ✠. AMEN. Having repeated seven times the conjuration addressed to one of these superior spirits, the same will forthwith manifest to perform whatsoever shall be desired. NOTE.--Such conjuration must have been written on virgin paper or parchment before invoking the spirits. These, having been satisfied, may be dismissed by using the following DISCHARGE Go in peace unto your places; may peace be with you, and be ye ready to come whensoever I shall call upon you, In the Name of the Father ✠ and of the Son ✠ and of the Holy Ghost ✠. Amen. CONJURATION FOR INFERIOR SPIRITS O SURMY ✠, DELMUSAN ✠, ATALSLOYM ✠, CHARUSIHOA ✠, MELANY ✠, LIAMINTHO ✠, COLEHON ✠, PARON ✠, MADOIN ✠, MERLOY ✠, BULERATOR ✠, DONMEO ✠, HONE ✠, PELOYM ✠, IBASIL ✠, MEON ✠, ALYMDRICTELS ✠, PERSON ✠, CRISOLSAY ✠, LEMON SEFLE NIDAR HORIEL PEUNT ✠, HALMON ✠, ASOPHIEL ✠, ILNOSTREON ✠, BANIEL ✠, VERMIAS ✠, ESLEVOR ✠, NOELMA ✠, DORSAMOT ✠, LHAVALA ✠, OMOT ✠, FRANGAM ✠, BELDOR ✠, DRAGIN ✠, Come ✠. The name of the required spirit must here be added on the parchment, when he will duly appear-the ordinary accidents excepted--and will grant what is desired of him--that is to say, if it so happen--after which he may be dismissed by the previous Discharge. The characters should be burnt in each case, as they avail once only. ANOTHER CONJURATION I conjure thee, N., by the great living God, the Sovereign Creator of all things, to appear under a comely human form, without noise and without terror, to answer truly unto all questions that I shall ask thee. Hereunto I conjure thee by the virtue of these Holy and Sacred Names .THE IMP STATUE. LINCOLN. Footnotes 236:1 This portion of the process offers some analogy with the Key of Solomon, Book ii. c. 2. 236:2 i.e., they are governed by the times of sunrise and sunset. Sext and Nones would not, however, be variable. 237:1 This prayer is similar to that in the Key of Solomon, Book ii. c. 2, with the exception of the names which are much mutilated in the Grimoire; these should read:--Herachio, Asac, Asacro, Bedrimulael, Tilath, Arabonas, Ierahlem, Ideodoc, Archarzel, Zophiel, Blautel, Baracata, Edoniel, Elohim, Emagro, Abragateh, Samoel, Geburahel, Onurberah, Cadato, Era, Elohi, Achsah, Ebmisha, Imachedel, Daniel, Dama, Elamos, Izachel, Bael, Segon, Gemon, Demas. But the majority of these are unintelligible.
Incense of the day: Sage
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The alchemical traditions associate certain elements of nature to the life of the world or universe even. In order for life to exist in any form, these four elements must exist.
SPIRAL. Spirals are said to have some form of link to the other world and is a representation of the cosmos i.e. the universe and its many parts The single spiral is alleged to represent the Sun. The spiral turning clockwise represents the wintertime Sun (As its winter here in Scotland I have drawn the winter representation for you) The spiral turning anti-clockwise represents the summertime Sun.
TWIN SPIRALS. The dual centred spiral Celtic symbol is also a common symbol, It is said to be similar to that of the Chinese ying and yang due to its shape and in its spiral form reminds me of a pair of x-ray glasses it is said to symbolise the positive and the negative sides of nature and therefore promotes balance. This explanation is also similar to that of ying and yang.
TRIPLE SPIRAL. A triple spiral has several interpretations as follows, the trinity of, the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. this Celtic symbol was allegedly believed by the Celts that all life moved in continuous cycles i.e. three phases such as birth, death and rebirth (reincarnation) and the belief in the mind, body and soul (spirit).
AWEN AKA The Three Rays Some say this Celtic symbol is the representation of the light seen at the point of death and the glory of the other world greeting you to its radiance, others say that the right hand ray symbolises the masculine and that the left hand ray symbolises the feminine therefore the central ray is the mediator for the two again pointing to the subject of balance i.e. ying and yang.
THE FIVE CIRCLES. A.K.A the wheel of life. As you can see this Celtic symbol is of four circles joined as one, by the additional central circle It is said that the druids (who we will discuss later) believe this to be a representation of their universe i.e. the meeting of the elements.
THREEFOLD. As we mentioned Druids above this Celtic symbol (allegedly of their origin) is known as threefold. It is said to represent the sister goddesses: Eiru, Fotla, Banba. Wicca has also an adaptation of this symbol although I am told that the centre is more triangular for them it also represents the Threefold however in this case it is pointing to the Mother Goddess: Maiden, Mother, and Crone
TRIQUETRA. This is more a Celtic knot design as appose to a Celtic symbol design. I have added it here as it is a well known symbol in modern society, especially if you pop a circle over it .It is said to represent the three levels of human thought i.e. the physical the mental and spiritual. Although the three points are distanced from each other they are merged together as one, symbolising a connection similar to that of the original triple spiral above 
![[*]](http://druidry.insubstantial.com.au/graphics/round.gif){kind=small}
Druidry - The Quest for Spirit 
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