tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7322431695947147512023-11-16T06:38:58.474-05:00Something Wicca This Way ComesA warm hearth to prop your feetAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03334966569131459658noreply@blogger.comBlogger31125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-732243169594714751.post-87580212473114144282013-03-18T20:09:00.004-04:002013-05-20T12:19:23.226-04:00Ostara Lore and LegendHey everyone!<br />
<br />
Well it's getting close now to the Ostara celebration for those of us in the Northern Hemisphere. Since it's happening this week I wanted to do a post or two about all things Ostara.<br />
<br />
Ok so Ostara is the celebration that lands on the spring equinox which happens on Wednesday, March 20 this year. The name Ostara is derived from the name of a Germanic goddess called Eostre, who is also the namesake of Easter (though that is a story for another day). Eostre is the goddess of springtime and flowers and much of what we know about Eostre comes from the Venerable Bede's <i>Temporum Ratione</i> which was written about thirteen hundred years ago. According to this April is known as Eostremonth and the goddess Eostre is honored as the patron goddess of the spring. Unfortunately no Germanic, or Norse, mythologies show any reference to Eostre so her existence is contested by some. Regardless she stands as a symbol of fertility and new life at this time.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwcd0YdGHBEDqBv8mOUd0gq_u356kuqlguFer5FcFPj5S6FyzNejOCDq3G2Scx1CXdbSK1Z0zbF3LfS20cJXx_ByPY7XJr9Gt55_hJsLDx2zMmxUz86y05FdAkzn5O53ItFpF4aRD6lNLL/s1600/eostre5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwcd0YdGHBEDqBv8mOUd0gq_u356kuqlguFer5FcFPj5S6FyzNejOCDq3G2Scx1CXdbSK1Z0zbF3LfS20cJXx_ByPY7XJr9Gt55_hJsLDx2zMmxUz86y05FdAkzn5O53ItFpF4aRD6lNLL/s320/eostre5.jpg" width="278" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<a name='more'></a><br />
Most of the dieties honored around Ostara are traditionally mother goddesses and horned gods since this is a time of fertility, life, and renewal. Examples are Cybelle and Flora from the Roman pantheon who are a mother goddess and the goddess of spring and flowers respectively. Freya from the Norse is also honored on this day because her return to the earth brings us out of the cold months of winter and restores life and beauty to the land. The Egyptian god Osiris is reporn at this time representing the continuous cycle of life and death.<br />
<br />
Some of the traditional activities asssociated with Ostara are not very different from the activities done at Easter (which was placed at this time to correspond with the spring equinox festivals in order to convert pagans a little easier). One of the biggest is the tradition of decorating eggs. Eggs are seen in many cultures as symbols of new life and fertility. The oldest evidence of eggs used in spring celebrations come from the celebration of No Ruz, the Zoroastrian new year that happens around this time. However there are certain connections between ancient pagan rites and eggs.<br />
<br />
Another symbol of the season are March Hares. This animal is seen as a major symbol of birth and fertility because they are nocturnal for nearly the entire year except around the spring equinox. During this time, their mating season, these hares come out in droves during both night and day. They are superbreeders and one female can concieve two litters simultaneously.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP6JPf3HKQROdMp-Y3I8Laank3JRQz_mwX6zqHl_M4KZTbhYT3zyUA69uDj0Ou0yZ_2POUqthlOVhjFjkRlGdFcD2wDRx6qBirWTJL420eYJUEGvjG_-5COadTdYa876XRqIV-UNn48qS-/s1600/ostara+eggs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP6JPf3HKQROdMp-Y3I8Laank3JRQz_mwX6zqHl_M4KZTbhYT3zyUA69uDj0Ou0yZ_2POUqthlOVhjFjkRlGdFcD2wDRx6qBirWTJL420eYJUEGvjG_-5COadTdYa876XRqIV-UNn48qS-/s320/ostara+eggs.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
The concept of the Easter bunny can also be attributed to this pagan celebration. Even though there is little concrete evidence of a Germanic springtime goddess called Eostre, there is one story involving her that also explains the origins of this wacky bunny. The story goes that Eostre found an injured bird arond the time of the spring equinox. In order to safe the animal, she transformed it into a rabbit. However, the transformation was not perfect and the animal retained the ability to lay eggs. As a way to honor the goddesses compassion, the hare would return each year on the day that Eostre saved it and would present her with offerings of decorated eggs. Another explination for the Easter bunny, though not as magickal as that of Eostre and the hare, is that March hares nest in a form, or nest, and when they abondon these nests they are inhabited by plover birds and therefore locals would fine birds eggs in rabbit forms.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga56kUpjjBoXOP76cGvcdY1ew5vl7-gx-kXqJVmjAfCBhUXHzXv1AQ_3NE89l1CxQVTGOJmsMxVMFxef5hbQqGLhE1uC7nuzX5PMyt4zOi1qKG8nuIzgiQvK8J8LzzCpdXevsMvr0VyBEW/s1600/easter-bunny.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="227" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga56kUpjjBoXOP76cGvcdY1ew5vl7-gx-kXqJVmjAfCBhUXHzXv1AQ_3NE89l1CxQVTGOJmsMxVMFxef5hbQqGLhE1uC7nuzX5PMyt4zOi1qKG8nuIzgiQvK8J8LzzCpdXevsMvr0VyBEW/s320/easter-bunny.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
The last thing I'm going to talk about today is setting up an Ostara altar. As far as colors go, look outside for inspiration. The green of the new leaves, the yellow of forsythia and daffodils, the purple of the lilacs. Pretty much any pale, pastel color will work. Representing the balance of the season is paramount to an Ostara alter. The spring equinox is the first time in the year where day and night are equal, show honor that. Use a god and goddess statue, a white and black candle, an image of the sun and moon, or even a ying/yang symbol. A creative, non-traditional representation could be a scale with boths sides equally balanced. Look for anything that represents balance and equality. Another major thing to show is that this is the time of life and new begginins. Include potted spring plants liked daffodils and lilies. Represent those animals that are giving birth at this time: put a basket of eggs or figures of lambs, rabbits, or calves. Include a bowl of milk and honey. Another good way is to have a small ritual fire, whether in a cauldron or brazier or in the shape of a candle, to represent the spark of new life that is in us all.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEity5fyq6OlbH4JnEFNFQLCWxrDa2JwTLwBJ2DtBBLVB0YS7T3UaAfmHK2Ccat62LGscwLTEGMWb0gmNda-V07b49CY5IUXmGZmRkEguK594OlEoe_MgYxSAC7toPZyU573ep35V3UvF-0M/s1600/Altar2_03.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="242" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEity5fyq6OlbH4JnEFNFQLCWxrDa2JwTLwBJ2DtBBLVB0YS7T3UaAfmHK2Ccat62LGscwLTEGMWb0gmNda-V07b49CY5IUXmGZmRkEguK594OlEoe_MgYxSAC7toPZyU573ep35V3UvF-0M/s320/Altar2_03.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Okay so that's all I'm going to do today. I'm gonna try and get back on tomorrow to talk about different craft, recipes, and rituals to do.<br />
<br />
Until then, much love and Blessed Be!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-732243169594714751.post-14789143544276247692013-02-11T16:39:00.000-05:002013-02-11T16:39:29.447-05:00Spring Has SprungOkay....so I am finally going to get back into the swing of things and start posting again...YAY!!!<br />
<br />
This is pretty late but I wanted to post something about Imbolc and its tradition and lore.<br />
<br />
Imbolc (also spelled Imbolg or Oimelc) refers to the cross-quarter or the halfway mark between the Winter Solstice and the Spring Equinox and celebrates the beginning of spring and the return of daylight.<br />
<br />
Though the terms are often used interchangeably, Imbolc is not the same festival as Candlemas. Imbolc is celebrated on January 31-February 1 and is of Gaelic origin while Candlemas is celebrated on February 2 and is of Roman Catholic origin. Within the Roman Catholic church, it is tradition to purify a mother forty days after the birth of a son. February 2 is exactly forty days after the birth of Jesus and this day celebrates the purification of Mary and the presentation of the newborn Jesus.<br />
<br />
So back to Imbolc! Like I said before, Imbolc is the festival marking the beginning of spring. It is one of the four Celtic festivals that we have record of, the others being Samhain, Beltaine, and Lughnassadh. Originally Imbolc was directly associated with the lambing season, the time of the year when the ewes begin to lactate. Because it is a festival celebrating hearth, home, spring and light, common traditions involve hearthfires, purification and cleansing rituals, and kitchen magicks. Candles are also a common sight during this festival to celebrate the lengthening days and the return of daylight and warmth.<br />
<br />
This festival is most closely associated with the Gaelic goddess Brighid (Brigit, Brid, Brighde, Bridget) also known as Saint Brighid in Catholicism. Legend says that Brighid would visit the households of the virtuous on Imbolc Eve and bless those within. Items of clothing would be left outside in homes that Brighid would bless the cloth and bestow upon them powers of healing and protection. The ashes of the nights fire would be raked smooth and checking the next dawn to see if Brighid's mark would appear.<br />
<br />
The main reoccuring concept of Imbolc is the return of light and the beginning of spring. This is a time to focus on new beginnings, fresh starts, and life in general. Do some spring cleaning, take some time to meditate on what you want to change this year, go outside to experience the sights and sounds of Mother Earth reawakening after her winter slumber.<br />
<br />
This is all for now, I'll be back though.<br />
As always blessed be!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-732243169594714751.post-71894861628690544952012-10-17T17:56:00.002-04:002013-05-20T12:20:37.590-04:00Pentagrams Throughout HistoryHey everyone!<br />
<br />
I am SO excited! I just got a new piece of jewelry, every girl's wet dream :). This is even more special because it is Pentacle of the Goddess and this is my first pentagram.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5EacdcyAYDRSz9Ab8YgS0oym_ypLKSvbp-nq4pKA_OxDHr-NL2sOKOs0kdFNf50zxhe1FXCgkUkI0_o79MPqnEdAlXEpm9hJ0SnaCGCWDN7yt1wHos9luqcjMtjuj4QQIGdR0dBpPh993/s1600/pentacle_of_goddess.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5EacdcyAYDRSz9Ab8YgS0oym_ypLKSvbp-nq4pKA_OxDHr-NL2sOKOs0kdFNf50zxhe1FXCgkUkI0_o79MPqnEdAlXEpm9hJ0SnaCGCWDN7yt1wHos9luqcjMtjuj4QQIGdR0dBpPh993/s1600/pentacle_of_goddess.jpg" width="149" /></a></div>
I have been leery of wearing the pentacle in public due to the negative connotations surrounding the pentagram and its associations with Satanism and black magick. However I found this necklace and it is just so beautiful (and I am sick and tired of succumbing to the expectations and ideals of the masses) that I had to get it.<br />
<br />
I love the knot-work feel to both the pentagram and the flower design, it gives it a Celtic aspect almost. My favorite thing about the necklace is the fact that it takes a symbol of faith and divinity for so many and adds to it femininity, strength, and nature in a gorgeous display. <br />
<br />
For those of ya'll who don't know, the pentagram is a big aspect of pagan culture, especially Wiccan. But it is also important in other religions and cultures, including Ancient Christianity. I can see the "Holy Crap" faces now, but it is true. The Ancient Christians believed that the five points of the pentagram were directly associated with the five wounds that Christ received while on the cross and that it warded off demons and other evil spirits.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
The oldest evidence of the pentagram was around 3000 BC in Mesopotamia. At the time, the pentagram was a hieroglyphic for the word "UB" which meant angle, cavity, or pitfall. Pythagoreans named it after the Greek goddess of health, Hygieia and associated it with mathematical perfection. The number five has always been seen as magical and human. We have five finger and toes on each limb. We have five senses. We experience five stage of life: birth, adolescence, puberty, parenthood, and death. The number five is also prime. It is the smallest number with which we can draw a star. The symbol of the star is important for the fact that every man and every woman is a star, explained in the picture below.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh39ejdFUsGOb6halsdiLYv3_mufxvAwaaS6qrmAqA9rue8c0MKUAa89V7T6KWy1eFXczN5YQp3gjYIybHTJ3AvwEw_ljCq4VhxBX-xHUqbn746o6_abQZxVnRseyB54YB3q7YXJO8qJhzx/s1600/pentacle_of_goddess.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgurkKwOrO3upzI-872dMhqOS50LYY2FkQJgx9lGXsipb-fhHymP44syy5aIAXH6TqXJc5EsU-fcQTowcz6lMNaWxeS7DtG_hmkr8EqajO7oKfy3PspP8_985JLNQBkJxfugbkVz0ffcjWp/s1600/fig1.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgurkKwOrO3upzI-872dMhqOS50LYY2FkQJgx9lGXsipb-fhHymP44syy5aIAXH6TqXJc5EsU-fcQTowcz6lMNaWxeS7DtG_hmkr8EqajO7oKfy3PspP8_985JLNQBkJxfugbkVz0ffcjWp/s1600/fig1.gif" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Human beings in microcosm, symbolizing our place in the Macrocosm and the concept of As Above, So Below</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh39ejdFUsGOb6halsdiLYv3_mufxvAwaaS6qrmAqA9rue8c0MKUAa89V7T6KWy1eFXczN5YQp3gjYIybHTJ3AvwEw_ljCq4VhxBX-xHUqbn746o6_abQZxVnRseyB54YB3q7YXJO8qJhzx/s1600/pentacle_of_goddess.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a></div>
<br />
In Chinese, it is called the Wu Xing and is traditionally used in medicine, Feng Shui, and Taoism. The points of the pentagram represent the five Chinese elements (Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water), and the pentacle diagrams the cycles of control, generation, and destruction. <br />
<br />
<dl><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGt7yBninY0WIjo3tjp55z6IHewYeCOz4GHlx3ec0ejCQ-nAQuW8MFuFnciGo9vVJ21P4sS0xEzO7C1TkrV88YYX370GAd0F9Cc7mlP1hVg8hiea2lg2_FcrFXMZ1sOGwlbkahctdDuweR/s1600/Wuxing_en.svg.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGt7yBninY0WIjo3tjp55z6IHewYeCOz4GHlx3ec0ejCQ-nAQuW8MFuFnciGo9vVJ21P4sS0xEzO7C1TkrV88YYX370GAd0F9Cc7mlP1hVg8hiea2lg2_FcrFXMZ1sOGwlbkahctdDuweR/s1600/Wuxing_en.svg.png" width="271" /></a></div>
<dt> </dt>
<dt>Controlling cycle</dt>
<dd><span class="nowrap">wood <b>breaks</b> earth,</span> <span class="nowrap">earth <b>absorbs</b> water,</span> <span class="nowrap">water <b>douses</b> fire,</span> <span class="nowrap">fire <b>melts</b> metal,</span> <span class="nowrap">metal <b>splits</b> wood.</span></dd>
<dt>Generative cycle</dt>
<dd><span class="nowrap">wood <b>feeds</b> fire,</span> <span class="nowrap">fire <b>makes</b> earth,</span> <span class="nowrap">earth <b>bears</b> metal,</span> <span class="nowrap">metal <b>collects</b> water,</span> <span class="nowrap">water <b>nourishes</b> wood.</span></dd>
<dt>Destructive cycle</dt>
<dd><span class="nowrap">wood <b>absorbs</b> water,</span> <span class="nowrap">water <b>rusts</b> metal,</span> <span class="nowrap">metal <b>breaks</b> earth,</span> <span class="nowrap">earth <b>smothers</b> fire,</span> <span class="nowrap">fire <b>burns</b> wood. </span></dd></dl>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The pentagram is also employed by the Order of the Eastern Star, an organization associated with Freemasonry that accepts members of both genders. The reversed pentagram with each point colored in with a different color and symbol, was the original symbol of this organization. After a time, the organization rotated the central pentagon 36 degrees meaning that the symbol is no longer a true pentagram.</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh39ejdFUsGOb6halsdiLYv3_mufxvAwaaS6qrmAqA9rue8c0MKUAa89V7T6KWy1eFXczN5YQp3gjYIybHTJ3AvwEw_ljCq4VhxBX-xHUqbn746o6_abQZxVnRseyB54YB3q7YXJO8qJhzx/s1600/pentacle_of_goddess.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The pentagram was used heavily in Arthurian myth, especially when associated with Sir Gawain. In the myths, the five points of the pentagram had five meanings: the five senses, the five fingers, the five wounds of Christ, the five joys that Mary had of Jesus, and the five virtues of knighthood. The five joys were the Annunciation, the Nativity, the Resurrection, the Ascension, and the Assumption. The five virtues are noble generosity, fellowship, purity, courtesy, and compassion.</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-ypBD-xZeiM0CpULu-SfwqDBQMD7k8ae3AaDR2KnpkTYgkLjOCcAE-Ds_NUrCuA_aWzpkbekStk5RAAwW7QhieOxpj8q2dQK-CGYu1mRB0jRK_sm1TWfw4bPIJdnsmNeH801_ny05YU3X/s1600/five_elements_and_pentagram.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-ypBD-xZeiM0CpULu-SfwqDBQMD7k8ae3AaDR2KnpkTYgkLjOCcAE-Ds_NUrCuA_aWzpkbekStk5RAAwW7QhieOxpj8q2dQK-CGYu1mRB0jRK_sm1TWfw4bPIJdnsmNeH801_ny05YU3X/s1600/five_elements_and_pentagram.png" width="200" /></a>Today the points of the pentagram are generally viewed as representing the four classical elements (Fire, Earth, Air, and Water) plus the fifth element, Spirit. The topmost point corresponds with Spirit, the perfect element and the one that presides of the other four. Going clockwise, or deosil, from there you have Water, then Fire, Earth, and finally Air.</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
An interesting aspect about the pentagram that I have noticed is the combination of male and female symbolism. Each point is created with a phallic symbol while the central pentagon resembles a cup or a womb. So in this one symbol we have the duality of the masculine and feminine. No wonder the pentagram has become the leading symbol of paganism. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWONcWhaWrH1EAcX7dBck1asubiP9UEwLYmYwKPg5qDH457VKj6daKqbM8oBfoTR4LzVTuay8wHqMbeD2pj_M19_uzVuw7ZX7qt-ppTKDutw_TJTbVDMlk2DqdZDblZzpUUI65t7PZZr-z/s1600/Pentagram_with_one_point_down_(de_Guaita).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWONcWhaWrH1EAcX7dBck1asubiP9UEwLYmYwKPg5qDH457VKj6daKqbM8oBfoTR4LzVTuay8wHqMbeD2pj_M19_uzVuw7ZX7qt-ppTKDutw_TJTbVDMlk2DqdZDblZzpUUI65t7PZZr-z/s1600/Pentagram_with_one_point_down_(de_Guaita).jpg" style="cursor: move;" /></a></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
A big distinction today is the orientation with which the pentagram is drawn. The "upright", with one point facing up and two facing down, is the orientation used by most pagans and earth-based views. The "reversed" or "inverted" pentagram, with two points up and one down, is generally considered a sing of evil and Satanism. While the symbol is used commonly in Satanism today, this form of orienting the pentagram is not inherently connected with evil or darkness. It actually is the original form of drawing the pentagram and was employed by the Mesopotamians and Pythagoreans. This form of the pentagram was blasphemed through history by the inverted pentagram being combined with the head of a goat, a symbol of black magic.</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The concept of Spirit being at the crest of the star only added to the wrongness of the inverted pentagram. The reversed orientation became associated with the idea that the proper order has been overturned and that, instead of spirit ruling the material, the material (basal, secular, profane) now rules the spirit and this break in order allows evil to enter.</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh39ejdFUsGOb6halsdiLYv3_mufxvAwaaS6qrmAqA9rue8c0MKUAa89V7T6KWy1eFXczN5YQp3gjYIybHTJ3AvwEw_ljCq4VhxBX-xHUqbn746o6_abQZxVnRseyB54YB3q7YXJO8qJhzx/s1600/pentacle_of_goddess.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR3K1B0XBuy2CLO3XvhdlRJ3o55yClO3f8ifljMXv13-3ikkxIUAmLrgVNzAQvZuBWtDCZxwf3wj8zlLe7YD30BVtod5k0ZkUFdwAjApUdH__5RtsY30x0Mk9iTO2BkTqnZPO-W4WVTltZ/s1600/654238_300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR3K1B0XBuy2CLO3XvhdlRJ3o55yClO3f8ifljMXv13-3ikkxIUAmLrgVNzAQvZuBWtDCZxwf3wj8zlLe7YD30BVtod5k0ZkUFdwAjApUdH__5RtsY30x0Mk9iTO2BkTqnZPO-W4WVTltZ/s1600/654238_300.jpg" width="200" /></a>An ironic aspect of modern society is the fact that the Congressional Medal of Honor, the highest medal of valor in combat that can be received by a member of the armed forces, is actually an inverted pentacle (I wonder if they've ever noticed that?).</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The pentacle, a pentagram encased within a circle, is a very popular symbol in Paganism. Including the circle represents protection and unity as well as eternity, infinity, the cycles of life, and nature. The circle touches all five points showing that the five elements are all connected. It is also a display of containment, showing the common practice of most pagans to keep their paths personal and secret and their adherence to paganism non-proselytizing traits.</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMBbkuOcd1qZVu3UUt8XVHYVZy1cha999RvnduQx7fAbAPa_nvyIZN4PQMRekdu4ONxR3G9h3vBwnP1bEW97yV9iFf-5OHPFrn9hyphenhyphenOSnpx05ZNtqrvdPDXXZs21uL1MsA6LGTb81x2iWyS/s1600/Pentacle_for_a_project_by_forcesinmotion.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMBbkuOcd1qZVu3UUt8XVHYVZy1cha999RvnduQx7fAbAPa_nvyIZN4PQMRekdu4ONxR3G9h3vBwnP1bEW97yV9iFf-5OHPFrn9hyphenhyphenOSnpx05ZNtqrvdPDXXZs21uL1MsA6LGTb81x2iWyS/s1600/Pentacle_for_a_project_by_forcesinmotion.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I hope ya'll liked this post about the different aspects of the pentagram. There is WAY more information out there, more than I could ever include in a single post. So ya'll go out and do a little research and find some more interesting facts about the pentagram. Well, I am done today, but I'll be back!</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
As always, a heartfelt</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Blessed Be!!</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYx0s3D-XqCwsEEjTaej09OiciOOSOmu5YUpQUGaQ7Yot-RPMM_uOVEdWw_dJeQjHKcQ9JzrryahAiLq-YRGceoMIseQvb6K8UG0JYiOgdz2W8xvStsx596K1256_yGbyYoDS0Tkgzrj0o/s1600/OrderEasternStar_logo_from_saucer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYx0s3D-XqCwsEEjTaej09OiciOOSOmu5YUpQUGaQ7Yot-RPMM_uOVEdWw_dJeQjHKcQ9JzrryahAiLq-YRGceoMIseQvb6K8UG0JYiOgdz2W8xvStsx596K1256_yGbyYoDS0Tkgzrj0o/s1600/OrderEasternStar_logo_from_saucer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh39ejdFUsGOb6halsdiLYv3_mufxvAwaaS6qrmAqA9rue8c0MKUAa89V7T6KWy1eFXczN5YQp3gjYIybHTJ3AvwEw_ljCq4VhxBX-xHUqbn746o6_abQZxVnRseyB54YB3q7YXJO8qJhzx/s1600/pentacle_of_goddess.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<!-- Blogger automated replacement: "https://images-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=http%3A%2F%2F4.bp.blogspot.com%2F-sWsA-wjHFoA%2FUH8WUeI6ySI%2FAAAAAAAAAYc%2FTsKtpPMkbaE%2Fs1600%2FWuxing_en.svg.png&container=blogger&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image%2F*" with "https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGt7yBninY0WIjo3tjp55z6IHewYeCOz4GHlx3ec0ejCQ-nAQuW8MFuFnciGo9vVJ21P4sS0xEzO7C1TkrV88YYX370GAd0F9Cc7mlP1hVg8hiea2lg2_FcrFXMZ1sOGwlbkahctdDuweR/s1600/Wuxing_en.svg.png" -->Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-732243169594714751.post-24888366151332280572012-10-16T13:04:00.001-04:002012-10-16T13:04:35.543-04:00We've Hit 1000!!!!I cannot believe that ya'll have come back over 1000 times. That is freakin' incredible. I know for the veteran bloggers out their, 1000 is miniscule compared to their number of pageviews. But for a girl who's only been blogging for a few months, and who has been slacking in the past one [:( SORRY!], 1000 views is unbelievable. I love you guys, ya'll are amazing, and I promise, promise, promise, that I will get back to posting.<br />
<br />
As Always (but with some added love today)<br />
Blessed Be!!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-732243169594714751.post-36464073967760128232012-09-26T11:08:00.002-04:002012-09-26T11:08:56.789-04:00ApologiesHey guys!<br />
<br />
I am so sorry I haven't been posting these past few weeks. It's just been so hectic with school and work and studying and family and trying to squeeze in some time to focus on my path. But I will defenitely get back to posting on a regular schedule.<br />
<br />
One exciting thing though, is that I have joined a group on campus that is focused on education and acceptance for pagan practices. The group is called Earth Spirit Association (ESA for short). It was started last year at my campus but unfortunatley I was not aware of it. It's really exciting for me that GSU has this group now because I finally have a community of like-minded individuals to go to when I have questions or concerns. Up until now I had never even met another pagan face to face, so this is a big deal to me.<br />
<br />
Well this post is gonna be kinda short, but I promise that I'm gonna post another one either later today or tomorrow that will be longer. I am also gonna try and catch up with PBP posts that I have gotten behind on.<br />
<br />
Glad to back up.<br />
Blessed Be!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-732243169594714751.post-28693740154739739362012-08-24T11:01:00.002-04:002013-05-20T12:20:56.936-04:00Barefoot Beauty<div style="text-align: center;">
Hey guys. Y'all are probably mad at me 'cus I didn't post Wednesday like I said I would. It's been kinda hectic this week starting back to school and having to juggle classes with work for the first time. So it might take me a little while to get back into the groove of posting regularly, but I will get there.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Well today is supposed to be my Pagan Blog Project post. However, today's letter is "Q". Okay so this is like the toughest letter ever to come up with topics about (besides like Z but that's a rant for another time). So instead of coming up with a subpar post that I hate and that probably will suck majorly, I think I'm just going to skip it and if I ever come up with a good idea I'll post it late.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
So instead of doing PBP, I'm gonna do the newest prompt from Sunfire over at Pagan Blog Prompts.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<em>How do you feel about going barefoot?</em></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<em>Do you? When, how? Where?</em></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<em>And of course, why?</em></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<a name='more'></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Well I have always preferred to be barefoot since I was a kid. I take of my shoes any chance I get. There just something freeing and innocent about not having shoes. I love walking around my backyard without shoes and having the grass tickle my toes. Walking barefoot on the beach is my all time favorite guilty pleasure. Scrunching my toes in the sand and having the cool ocean water lap against my ankles. OMG it's almost profane in its pleasure.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Going barefoot as become especially important to me in the past few years, since I have embraced my path as a pagan. I have never felt closer to Mother Earth as I have here recently. Coming to the realization that I was pagan and all that it encompassed opened up a line of communication between me and the earth that had only been cracked for a very long time. Removing my shoes not only physically puts me closer to the earth, but it also symbolically removes the barriers between me and my mother. Having that physical connection strengthens my spiritual connection to her.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It is a beautiful experience to stand under the pecan trees in the field next to my house, feeling the grass and soil beneath my toes and the warmth from the setting sun on my skin. Watching the leaves above filter the late afternoon sun while casting playfull patterns of light over me. Listening to the forlorn sound of whippoorwills and the gentle rustle of leaves has a cool breeze caresses my skin. Tasting rain in the air and hoping it will catch me before I go inside. Smelling the scents of fresh cut grass mixed with pine and oleander.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
That moment would not be as sublime if that sense of touch was removed because that skin to earth connection was broken. That is why I go barefoot.</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-732243169594714751.post-7586297724569275512012-08-21T13:43:00.000-04:002013-05-20T12:21:25.121-04:00Pagans In CollegeHey guys, how are y'all doing. Well like I said the other day, I'm gonna be trying really hard to get back into a regular posting schedule. I don't think I'm gonna be posting almost every day like I was, but I do think I might start posting on certain days. I will defenitely be posting on Wednesday and Friday so check back then for updates. I might include Tuesdays and Sunday to that list, which would mean four posts a week and that sounds pretty good to me. What do ya'll think? I also want to ask y'all to send me emails with any topics or ideas that y'all might want me to talk about. I am open to any suggestions.<br />
<br />
Well yesterday was my first day back to school. It went pretty well, I only had two classes: World History and Ancient Philosophy. Since it was the first day we really didn't get into any topics, we just covered the basic outlines for the course and basic "house-keeping" stuff.<br />
<br />
What was interesting for me though was my philosophy class. Though we didn't jump right into the course material, my professor did give us a little lecture about what we would be learning in class this semster. One of the things she said we are going to be focusing on is the struggle between pagan and anglo religious belief systems.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
I was excited to hear her say this because it isn't something that most professor choose to discuss. Even the intro to religion course focuses purely on the three biggies: Islam, Judaism, and of course Christianity. People don't talk about paganism in general academia because it is considered taboo or inconcequential. To actually be in a class where paganism is a major focus will not only be refreshing but enlightening. It will be interesting to hear the other students' perspectives on this topic, especially since there is a guy in the class that is a super devot Christian.<br />
<br />
It just got me thinking about the need for a bigger emphasis on alternative religions in acedemia. It's like my lit professor said this morning, "A four year university is meant to foster intellectualism. This means the ability to confront new ideas and topics and not just learn about them, but learn from them." How can we foster intellectualism if a good portion of the spiritual and philosophical world is ignored? How can people make intellegent and informed decisions about life, ethics, and spirituality if they are never challenged about what they believe? One thing I have learned from my previous philosophy classes is that you can not really choose a belief system or a school of thought if you have never been challenged by an opposing set of ideas. Confronting opposition and engaging in debate with those of alternative beliefs helps to salidify your reasons for choosing your belief system. If you do not go through this process, you are simply a automoton, a midless robot going throught the motions of life and basing your decisions on what others have programed onto your harddrive.<br />
<br />
I think all pagans and wytches need to focus on this need. I know the last point in the wytches pyramid states, "To be silent," but I think the time for silence is past. How will paganism ever be acknowledged as a legitamite belief system if we refuse to speak out. I think it is our time to be heard and to create a place for ourselves in acedemia alongside the biggies of the Western world. Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-732243169594714751.post-19012783672057480562012-08-17T21:22:00.000-04:002013-05-20T12:21:53.269-04:00Pagans and Parents and Questions, OH MY!!Hey guys, how y'all doing? I cannot believe that it has been over a week since I last posted! I feel so horrible that I've left y'all hanging. It's just been so hectic 'cus we've only had the internet back up for the past few days and then I've been so busy juggling work and back to school errands that I haven't had time to think much less blog. But I promise that I will get back on my regular schedule and I won't abandon y'all again.<br />
<br />
Well, I missed the P's for the Pagan Blog Project and I will get to those, but I want to skip on ahead to the Q's. Actually this one could technically be both, so I guess this post is me minding my "Ps & Qs". That was a really dorky joke...but I like it :).<br />
<br />
So the thing is that I am still living with my parents and my older brother, the problem is that they don't know I'm pagan. Oh they know certain aspects of me being pagan: like I'm extremely eco-friendly and I am in to magick and fey. But they don't realize that it is more than recycling or thinking Tinkerbell is awesome (which I do). They don't know that I actually think the Earth is alive and sentient or that I believe that magick and the fey are real and not myth.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
The main issue is that it is hard for me to keep secrets from my family, especially when it is something I'm not ashamed of. See most people would think I haven't told them because I am ashamed, but I am not. The reason I haven't told them is for one, I am worried about their reactions. My family isn't real religious (they don't go to church or say daily prayers or anything like that) but my dad does have the whole superstitious aspect of Christianity. He thinks tattoos are the "mark of the beast" (I have a tattoo by the way and he does know about that), that the bad economy is a sign of the apocalypse, and that black cats can actually put a curse on you. So telling him I'm a wytch might not go over so well. My brother is an enigma, again he doesn't go to church but he does believe saying God's name in vain is a sin and other things like that. So I have no clue what he would think. But they really aren't the main problem. The one I'm really worried about is my mom. Me and her are really close and we have been since I was little. She was raised Methodists but she hasn't gone to church in years. She has even told me that she doesn't think that there is one right way as far as faith and that as long as you believe in something you are okay. But would she really accept me if I told her that I worship a dual divinity and that I practice magick. To have her turn her back on me would be devastating for me and I'm not sure I would be able to handle that. But I don't like keeping secrets from her, it feels unnatural and I have never kept a secret from her (some of you might not believe that, but it is true I have told her EVERYTHING: getting drunk, making out with the wrong guy, etc. she knows it all).<br />
<br />
It really hit me today when my mom was checking the mail and an ad came to me from a pagan supply store. However, she didn't know it was for me because it was addressed to Phoenix Starfire and not my real name. So she asked my dad and my brother if they knew what is was and they said no. Then she asked me if I knew and I didn't know what to say. I didn't want to lie and say that it wasn't mine or that it was sent to us by mistake. I thought about just telling her it was mine and then going from there, but that voice in the back of my mind that knows all my fears and deepest thoughts decided to speak up and I lost the nerve and just told her I didn't know.<br />
<br />
So now I am left feeling sick and frustrated and angry at myself. How can I truly accept who I am when I hide it from those closest to me? I can I show love to my deities when my actions suggest I am ashamed? I am just denying myself when I deny them the truth. I am just so lost and confused.<br />
<br />
So I want to ask y'all your opinions. How did y'all go about telling your friends and family? Did you write out talking points or did you just go with your gut? Did you talk to all of them together or did you go at it one-on-one? And please don't say that I don't have to "come out" to my family and that I shouldn't worry about it. I know that telling them is not mandatory, but it is affecting me and my path negatively. Therefore it is a necessity and a priority for me and I would really appreciate y'alls advice.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-732243169594714751.post-51920942957620461482012-08-10T19:42:00.000-04:002012-08-17T21:25:37.221-04:00Trouble On The Net<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Hey guys, sorry I haven't been posting this week. My internets still down from that light ing strike Monday. Thankfully we now have our water back though. A friend of my brothers came by Wednesday and looked at it. We were worried we were gonna have to pull up the pump and replace it like last time, but it turned out it was just the relay box. So we went from having to spend $700 to only paying $150. I think it was a pretty good turnout, the most important thing is that I can take a shower at my own house now.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">I am excited because I just started back up with my tarot journal. He past few months have been very hectic with starting the new job and everything, so I kinda let it get lost in the shuffle. But things like that happen, and I have gotten better and I am making entries every day now. I forgot how much fun it can be to read the cards and try to interpret what the combinations mean. Hopefully I won't get outa practice again</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Well I've got to go unfortunately. I will try to get the net fixed this weekend so I can back to my regular posting schedule. For now I hope y'all have a great weekend and as always Blessed Be!</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-732243169594714751.post-49412999485829938972012-08-07T17:36:00.001-04:002012-08-17T21:27:26.407-04:00Mother Nature Strikes Back<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); font-family: '.Helvetica NeueUI'; font-size: 17px;"></span><br />
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); font-family: inherit;">Hey guys sorry I haven't posted in a while. This weekend was a girls weekend with my BFF so we vegged on pizza and Bourne movies. We also saw the new Total Recall which is really good. It reminded me of Inception because of the whole question of wether memories are real or implanted and if it even matters. I kinda liked the one character's take on memories: they are just chemical reactions in your brain brought on by sensory perceptions and implanted memories just take out the middle man. Overall it was really good especially when your in the mood for an ass-kicker.</span></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span><div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I couldn't post yesterday cus lightning hit a pine tree in our front yard and blew off a trail off back going sown the side. Thats not all though the lighting ran down the tree to the water pipes nearby and then all the way to the well pump out back. At one point the pipe couldn't handle the pressure and exploded. So now the well is out and we don't have water. It must have followed the phone lines too, cus it blew the phone, the wireless router, and the e-car in the desktop so we have no Internet (thankfully we had a spare phone we could hook up so we can get calls).</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The weirdest part is that almost the exact same thing happened last year at around the same time too. Lightning hit a tree in the back yard then but it still blew the well, an took out our 65" tv too...we still haven't got that thing fixed if we even can. These things amaze me: not only did the same circumstances happen but they happened almost exactly a year apart. I wonder if there is a lesson or a message in this, cus everything happens for a reason. Are we taking to much for granted and we are being shown what it would be like not to have creature comforts? Is this Mother Nature's attempt at telling us that we aren't appreciating her? I don't know, what I do know I that this proves that nature is not something that can be predicted or controlled. And as for that saying bout lightning not striking at the same place twice, I do believe that might be an old wives tale (a false one).</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Well that's going to be all for tonight, I was lucky to get a chance to post what I have. I hope y'all are safe and happy and as always Blessed Be!</span></div>
</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-732243169594714751.post-32372034300220624042012-08-03T00:02:00.000-04:002013-05-20T12:22:29.422-04:00Revisiting the House of Night<br />
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">**Warning May
Contain Spoilers**</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I just finished
Destined, the last book (for now) in the House of Night series by P.C. and
Kristin Cast. I've been reading the series for fun as well as for the Pagan
Reading Challenge and I thought I would give a review for the whole series.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxIbS5HN9EEUSaJ2cHcMhUO8ye2Macy7hHrU6HD8ylv2eTCm6HXD4S4PwLpJo0SbySKuqbNX6dBXE6VecTAfRPIzoxUlZCcyZP1xWeov8nDd1b6JTdE9RUxDnfdyIxntTPLisZKKA8S-GU/s1600/Destined_FINAL_CVR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxIbS5HN9EEUSaJ2cHcMhUO8ye2Macy7hHrU6HD8ylv2eTCm6HXD4S4PwLpJo0SbySKuqbNX6dBXE6VecTAfRPIzoxUlZCcyZP1xWeov8nDd1b6JTdE9RUxDnfdyIxntTPLisZKKA8S-GU/s320/Destined_FINAL_CVR.jpg" width="211" /></span></a></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">For those of ya'll
who don't know, these books are about a 16-year-old Oklahoma girl named Zoey
Redbird who is chosen by the vampyre goddess Nyx to become a vampyre fledgling
and Nyx's representative in the modern world.
After she is "marked" she moves into the Tulsa House of Night
(vamp finishing school) and soon forms a close-knit group of friends and
allies.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Throughout the next
nine books Zoey and her friends team up with other vamps backed by Nyx to
battle against the House of Night's High Priestess (principle) turned evil
immortal, Neferet, who is allied with the personification of Darkness and who's
main goal is to cause chaos and destruction.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<br />
<a name='more'></a></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Many people have
commented negatively about this series
for various reasons. The complaints that I have heard the loudest have
been the fact that the dialogue and prose are poorly written, the books are
confusing because they switch between the first person point-of-view of Zoey
and the third-person POV of supporting
characters, and that the books are basically boring because they are full of
teenage drama.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I will say the POV
changes can take some getting used too, especially since it doesn't happen
until the sixth book. However, I believe the switches provide necessary
information and insight into character development that would otherwise be lost
if the Casts stuck with Zoey's first person narration.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">What many people
consider to be poorly written prose is actually down-to-earth and real-life
dialogue that again shows the characters attitudes and personalities. For
example, we learn just as much about Zoey's character by her repetitive use of
"poopie" rather than being vulgar and crude. I find the Casts to be
refreshing in their choice to refrain from using lofty and unrealistic language
that would be at odds with the characters and the time period.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">As for the
"teenage drama", the serious and life-changing themes of morality,
the battle between Light and Dark, and the death of loved ones are balance by
boyfriend drama, fights with friends, bullying and "mean-girls", and
the desire to fit in and be normal. I respect the Casts for adding these themes
because too often people choose to ignore these topics and forget that they are
real-life issues that everyone deals with, not just teenagers.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The House of Night
series has become a personal favorite of mine because of the religious aspects
and the focus on love, forgiveness, the power of choice, and the fight between Light and Dark that
permeate all nine books.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The books are
heavily based on pagan and Wicca practices as well as Native American
(specifically Cherokee) myths and legends. Zoey is the grandaughter of a
Cherokee Wise Woman and her grandmother's teachings, as well as her
unconditional love, help strengthen and guide Zoey throughout the series. Some
of the books' main villians, the Tsi Sgili and Raven Mockers, come from real
Cherokee legends. As Nyx's representative and High Priestess, Zoey is gifted
with an affinity for all five elements (including spirit). With her friends
(who each have their own single element affinity) they cast circles to
communicate with Nyx or fight against the forces of Darkness. The idea of
reincarnation and life after death is discussed later in the series when Zoey's
childhood love is killed.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The ideas of love,
forgiveness, the power of choice, and the struggle between Darkness and Light
are the main themes seen throughout the series. From the very first book Zoey
has to deal with the idea that "Darkness does not always equate to evil, just
as light does not always bring good", an idea that gets repeated often in
the series. She struggles to forgive and see redemption in mean-girl Aphrodite
and evil-born Raven Mocker Rephaim, balance the love she has for Heath and her
Warrior Stark as well as come to terms with her love for her flawed absente
mother, and to understand that her past
lives do not dictate her present. The Casts put special emphasis on these ideas
and try to help readers understand that forgiveness must be earned, love is
never a mistake, and that we all have both Light and Dark within us but it is
our choices that determine our path.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Overall, I highly
recommend the House of Night series to anyone who is looking for an
ass-kicking, edge-of-your-seat, insightful, inspiring, tear-jearking, and
thought provoking read. It literally has something for everyone: vampyres,
fallen angels, ancient goddesses, magick, mystery, friendship, love, betrayal,
life-or-death struggle, redemption, and much, much more.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">These truly are some
great books and I can't wait until the tenth book, Hidden, that comes out this
October!</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0lhyPC-EUPzU8DstudzOluWk8p3xoG3CCcggQk3cNI-0Ffpeugn__fz0MvZZMUeNIjdirGWmONkdWxVZiy4-mbZFUpBvY0Phik9D667J4qX8Ytfh9lLy3ATPJL79Zhgcl5pRjC1aSgLSh/s1600/Hidden_FINAL-CVR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0lhyPC-EUPzU8DstudzOluWk8p3xoG3CCcggQk3cNI-0Ffpeugn__fz0MvZZMUeNIjdirGWmONkdWxVZiy4-mbZFUpBvY0Phik9D667J4qX8Ytfh9lLy3ATPJL79Zhgcl5pRjC1aSgLSh/s320/Hidden_FINAL-CVR.jpg" width="211" /></span></a></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I also found out here recently found out that there is a companion book that discusses the mythology
and religion discussed in the books. Even if you aren't a fan of the books this
would be interesting pagan read because it contains lecture type essays written
on topics like Nyx and various night goddesses, feline familiars, priestess and
goddess worship in general, and even one discussing the similarities between
the goddess Nyx and the Virgin Mary.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPYHVPRM8y84yT2qLxM3sfo8zhp_KHZF_ES2YK6PaGweXvhEGEdklEBGGn-5Z70LMf0UVCPTn9mX7NjyGutDYwIjtMFWIUJMyJrvqd4vaA0ls01IlIQQtYqJaVsckTFE0sB6N4DWV4mv7i/s1600/nyx-in-the-house-of-night.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPYHVPRM8y84yT2qLxM3sfo8zhp_KHZF_ES2YK6PaGweXvhEGEdklEBGGn-5Z70LMf0UVCPTn9mX7NjyGutDYwIjtMFWIUJMyJrvqd4vaA0ls01IlIQQtYqJaVsckTFE0sB6N4DWV4mv7i/s1600/nyx-in-the-house-of-night.jpg" /></span></a></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">There is also a House of Night themed oracle deck coming out in October that I want to get. Hopefully the artwork will be gorgeous.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5zjS0GIV9e65p__Zqo4mhezR51M4cmnwtrUkNLV5X-0LxXaCdutSZgUNzp9dSCTQ98DU47qYZ3jYnZ50UstzwvBmU4nJawqB2Q7fwiB9ghw7f7VXGXPm3ChrhlCW7Y_beomiqGyowTVpW/s1600/51oTcuFdixL._SS500_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5zjS0GIV9e65p__Zqo4mhezR51M4cmnwtrUkNLV5X-0LxXaCdutSZgUNzp9dSCTQ98DU47qYZ3jYnZ50UstzwvBmU4nJawqB2Q7fwiB9ghw7f7VXGXPm3ChrhlCW7Y_beomiqGyowTVpW/s320/51oTcuFdixL._SS500_.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Well, time for me to hit the sack, it's been a long day. I hope ya'll come back tomorrow to see my Pagan Blog Project post, it's the first day of the letter "P".</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I hope ya'll have sweet dreams and as always Blessed Be!</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-732243169594714751.post-50711108097181296342012-08-01T22:38:00.001-04:002013-05-20T12:22:42.625-04:00Celebrating the Harvest<span style="font-family: inherit;">Brightest Blessings Everyone!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Today is the
ancient Celtic festival of the harvest, the first of three harvest festivals
including Mabon and Samhain. This day takes its name from the Irish god Lugh,
one of the Tuatha De Danann. Today is know as<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><i>Lughnasadh</i><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>is Ireland and<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><i>Lunasdál</i><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>in Scotland. However, Lughnasadh has
an older name,<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><i>Brón Trogain</i>.
This name refers to the pain that comes with childbirth, which is fitting
because this is the time of the year that the earth gives birth to the first of
her bounty.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFqgCXc3kJ1jpqfU5wSmv7UkJJsn836v2iX6K27Am1BJ0-DswL9aJBYkQRixhyphenhyphenWsoRNdICz0PwHeuiIysA3hzwWl2yFcyVG7mxi0rGiwZOiSzVTowWBnDupLqjrrgIQsDVGNqYevouPqWL/s1600/132_lugh_w.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFqgCXc3kJ1jpqfU5wSmv7UkJJsn836v2iX6K27Am1BJ0-DswL9aJBYkQRixhyphenhyphenWsoRNdICz0PwHeuiIysA3hzwWl2yFcyVG7mxi0rGiwZOiSzVTowWBnDupLqjrrgIQsDVGNqYevouPqWL/s320/132_lugh_w.jpg" width="257" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The Lughnasadh
festival was started by Lugh as a feast dedicated to his foster-mother,
Tailtiu, who died from exhaustion after clearing a great forest in Ireland to
be cultivated and farmed. She told the men of Ireland on her death-bed to hold
games in her honor, and if they did so, Ireland would not be without song. That
is why it is not uncommon to have contests of strength and skill at this time.
Her name, which comes from the Celtic<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><i>Talantiu</i><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>or "The Great One of the
Earth", suggests that she was a personification of the land
itself. We honor her today for her sacrifice as well as the sacrifice of the
earth, because no harvest comes without a sacrifice.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<br />
<a name='more'></a></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The Anglo-Saxon
and Christian version of this festival is Lammas or<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><i>hlaf-maesse</i>, which means
loaf-mass. In Wales this day was called<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><i>Gwyl
Awst</i> or the "August Feast". This day marks the end of the hay harvest that began at Midsummer. In ancient times the first loaves of the harvest were blessed by the Church. In Ireland it was considered bad to harvest before Lammas because it meant that last year's harvest had run out early.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">In pagan culture today the names Lammas and Lughnasadh are used almost interchangeably. Though the name is not important, the festival itself is. Today is the time to celebrate the first day of harvest and the beginning of the grain reaping. We honor those who have come before and who have sacrificed for our benefit. We give thanks for that which we have and send out hopes for that which we need. Today is a time of transformation. It is a time of death and endings, but also of rebirth and new beginnings. I personally like to use today as a time to reflect on the Circle of Life (yes another Disney reference). We sacrifice the crops and grains of the seasons to nourish our bodies but we will one day nourish the crops and it continues in a never-ending cycle of life and death and rebirth.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Tonight decorate
your altar with the symbols of the harvest like sickles and scythes. Fill
baskets with dried grains such as wheat or corn, late summer fruits like apples
and peaches, as well as early fall vegetables like pumpkins and squash. </span>Cornucopias<span style="font-family: inherit;"> are actually really good Lammas decorations. Create
garlands out of ivy and grapes. Include</span><span class="apple-converted-space" style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><a href="http://gypsymagicspells.blogspot.com/2010/08/making-corn-husk-doll.html" style="font-family: inherit;">corn
dolls</a><span class="apple-converted-space" style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">and statues of harvest
and hearth gods like Demeter, Dionysus, and Hestia. Incorporate colors of the
season. The leaves are beginning to change so pull from them fiery reds,
yellows and oranges. Honor the earth and the crops of the harvest with cool
browns and greens. Burgundies and purples are other good choices for this time.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-hHqOQ8bQnQAhaHF9D73L6g6MeRdH_m-OoY1G5evSWpTQGPBFJLCPidWdRBYf37KJFMIJvxkVmtT-S0omAEaCVXryGrlAgoTFvEX4TOedGDAIMM9FTWg7L8H_X5ceDskhL9axjNZ4aRGm/s1600/corn-husk-doll.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-hHqOQ8bQnQAhaHF9D73L6g6MeRdH_m-OoY1G5evSWpTQGPBFJLCPidWdRBYf37KJFMIJvxkVmtT-S0omAEaCVXryGrlAgoTFvEX4TOedGDAIMM9FTWg7L8H_X5ceDskhL9axjNZ4aRGm/s1600/corn-husk-doll.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw3qGSG-YhLVLrdvhpNI9FNOXY2w665UKxl6_zAmH_chCBR7vxNqz-kNYoEhWbJy9ibVnAhgMRP1in1VWAT8A42syeauHh6f4QrVsGGl2yei2srhcTcRzxseipgKZ7-SW68YskdISVs6v4/s1600/cornucopia-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw3qGSG-YhLVLrdvhpNI9FNOXY2w665UKxl6_zAmH_chCBR7vxNqz-kNYoEhWbJy9ibVnAhgMRP1in1VWAT8A42syeauHh6f4QrVsGGl2yei2srhcTcRzxseipgKZ7-SW68YskdISVs6v4/s400/cornucopia-2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">My favorite way
off celebrating Lughnasadh is by baking homemade bread with local ingredients
I've gathered either from my own garden, from friends, or purchased at the
local farmers market. The closer the connection the ingredients have to me the
better. I don't have a specific recipe or type of bread I bake, I usually try
to do something new every year and it also depends on the ingredients I can get
my hands on (though I like ones with honey and raisins). It's tradition to make
the loaf in the shape of a man to symbolize the god or goddess of the harvest.
However, I like the look of braided bread. Besides the more time I spend on the
bread the more energy and power that gets put into it (I'm a little bit of a
kitchen wytch because I use cooking as part of my magick). I then
(symbolically) break bread with the deities and make an offering of my
labors to thank them for my bounty. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinJYX5SVCUmJh3VPcbfxoSG6LZ6KPeuqdpiuhHLileVv6H9KfNfoCTJ0Pw7kOrv5UgS2NHfO5JumTG_ROzsxNcJhJT5pcDGLl6LjhoP6xhfI9lnhV2wtolsAycLPo50d4JExQEpKE6rgbY/s1600/round-braid.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="257" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinJYX5SVCUmJh3VPcbfxoSG6LZ6KPeuqdpiuhHLileVv6H9KfNfoCTJ0Pw7kOrv5UgS2NHfO5JumTG_ROzsxNcJhJT5pcDGLl6LjhoP6xhfI9lnhV2wtolsAycLPo50d4JExQEpKE6rgbY/s320/round-braid.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Another of my ways
of celebrating the harvest is using smudge sticks to cleanse my home of negative
energies. White sage is a personal favorite, which I sometimes follow with
sweetgrass to draw in positive energies (especially during ritual). After smudging, I meditate on what I will be harvesting for this year, whether in the physical sense or the spiritual sense. I think about my ancestors and the hardships they had to face in order for my life to be as comfortable as it is today. Lastly, I think about the earth and the changing of seasons and how we all go through the cycles of life and death.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Well hope ya'll had a good ritual and a great day, and as always Blessed Be!</span></div>
<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-732243169594714751.post-2954513975851621122012-07-31T20:44:00.000-04:002013-05-20T12:22:53.812-04:00Blue Corn MoonMerry Meet everyone! I hope ya'll are doing great.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Just in case ya'll don't know, this August we are actually gonna have two full moons. The first will be tomorrow and the second will be on the 31st. (Oh and the title <i>IS</i> a reference to Pocahontas :) for those of ya'll who didn't catch it)</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
When two full moons happen within the same month, the second is usually called a "blue moon", even though the moon usually looks like an other. Another interpretation of the blue moon rule concerns when four full moons occur within the same season (spring, summer, fall, or winter) and the third full moon out of the four is considered the blue moon. Most years have twelve full moons and they normally occur monthly. However, the solar calendar year has about eleven more days than the lunar year. Those extra days accumulate and so every 2~3 years (2.66 to be exact) there is an extra full moon. It's works very much like leap years, which is why some people use the term leap month rather than blue moon.<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBESL4qB8DQ3qVjH5juwUGvSDQ2P_Rrj5tWTDpxDmUUu2TFppJm5APwruGe2h-v2BMMJi8K1G-xwg5zhwMWqQSQNpycdSJ0iMEWb5ZXJqlvWb0YIc8vyNUyANyf-z-GioaZmkKdZi5vC0B/s1600/blue-moon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBESL4qB8DQ3qVjH5juwUGvSDQ2P_Rrj5tWTDpxDmUUu2TFppJm5APwruGe2h-v2BMMJi8K1G-xwg5zhwMWqQSQNpycdSJ0iMEWb5ZXJqlvWb0YIc8vyNUyANyf-z-GioaZmkKdZi5vC0B/s320/blue-moon.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
The term "blue moon" is thought to come from the Middle English <i>belewe</i> which means both "blue" and "betray". Therefore a belewe moon is one that betrays the normal cycle of one full moon per monthly cycle.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The term "once in a full moon" has been used since the early 1800s and refers to situations that are uncommon, but not rare. The ironic part though, is that blue moons are actually not that uncommon. Like I said before, they occur about every three years. In 1999 there were two blue moons within three months of each other. The association with blue moons and rare occurrences may come from the literal meaning of "blue moon" where the full moon appears to have a blue tint, which actually is a rare event. This event can be caused by smoke and dust particles in the atmosphere, which happens after severe forest fires or volcanic eruptions.</div>
<div>
<br />
<a name='more'></a></div>
<div>
Now this August is special not only because we are having a blue moon month, but also because the first full moon falls on Lammas (or Lughnasadh) night. So we are having an esbat and a sabbat on the same night. So here's some information ya'll might need for your esbat ritual and I'll talk about Lammas rituals tomorrow.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Pagan names: Corn moon, Wyrt/Wort moon, Herb moon, Dispute moon, Barley moon</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Native American names: Sturgeon moon, Grain moon, Red moon</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Nature Spirits: dryads</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Element: fire</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Herbs: chamomile, St. John's wort, rosemary, basil, bay, angelica, fennel, rue and orange</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Colors: yellow, red, organge and gold</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Flowers: sunflowers and marigolds</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Incense: frankincense and heliotrope</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Crystals: tiger's eye, carnelian, jasper and fire agate</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Trees: hazel, alder and cedar</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Animals: lion, phoenix, sphinx and dragon</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Birds: crane, falcon and eagle</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Deities: Ganesha, Vulcan, Mars, Thoth, Hathor, Diana, Hecate, Nemesis, Lugh, Danu and Aine</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Themes: harvesting, gathering, gratitude, vitality, health and friendship</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Magickal focus: spiritual and physical health, harvesting for later</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Well, come back tomorrow and we'll have a chat 'bought Lammas rituals and correspondences.</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-732243169594714751.post-15891927706700271072012-07-28T00:14:00.000-04:002013-05-20T12:23:38.513-04:00The Mystery of the OracleHey guys! How ya'll doin' today. It's been a good day for me and it'll get even better when I can cuddle with my pillow :). Today is day number two for the O's on the Pagan Blog Project.I had a hard time coming up with an idea, but I finally decided to write about something that confuses the heck outta me while at the same time mystifies me: Oracle Decks!<br />
<br />
I am currently learning to read tarot cards and when I was searching for a deck to purchase (I eventually got the Mystic Dreamer deck and I LOVE IT!!) I kept coming across oracle decks. I've tried to search for information about oracle decks but there doesn't seem to be much information about them. The only thing I have learned so far is that an oracle deck can have anywhere from 44 to 55 cards in it and that no deck has the same kinda cards. I guess it is a completely unique experience for each person and no two people read the cards the same way.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br /><br />
I have some decks that I would like to buy to try my hand at reading oracle cards. Though the whole concept kinda confuses me, I like the idea of how intimate and personal it is to read oracle cards. Here are some cards from the decks I like with my interpretation of their meaning, to show just how varied and beautiful these cards can be.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><u>Oracle of the Shapeshifters by Jasmine Becket-Griffith</u></b></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaHqAZW6lhd2ijvgENAeVR5Im7RJe58f_SebeeMpVO0JPGx8MGmodKEARdmzY8GxREU61el0UrSY_G80piVCwrYjRh0GA4uyt59yw-si4kg3q8jNunY9Kg_2UrjrHAdlV7nHSv-t7SBX_x/s1600/OoS-LilOwlyn.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaHqAZW6lhd2ijvgENAeVR5Im7RJe58f_SebeeMpVO0JPGx8MGmodKEARdmzY8GxREU61el0UrSY_G80piVCwrYjRh0GA4uyt59yw-si4kg3q8jNunY9Kg_2UrjrHAdlV7nHSv-t7SBX_x/s320/OoS-LilOwlyn.jpeg" width="218" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wisdom is a gift not a burden</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidtX-QYJMeRgnbBuMGIyk4LjBZycUghoLWD4TVoKtx1Bp2gnoX2SNqOX125KFmi2XPSkJMV3PWbD0pSR-OzgzTPsInNHboanxIylZg5HHRl3Itf2HJGUDT82MXZ-5lg9EwuooN4POizc9V/s1600/OoS-Raccoon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidtX-QYJMeRgnbBuMGIyk4LjBZycUghoLWD4TVoKtx1Bp2gnoX2SNqOX125KFmi2XPSkJMV3PWbD0pSR-OzgzTPsInNHboanxIylZg5HHRl3Itf2HJGUDT82MXZ-5lg9EwuooN4POizc9V/s1600/OoS-Raccoon.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sanctuary is not far from here</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><u>Oracle of Shadows and Light by Jasmine Becket-Griffith</u></b></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZRv8srzKWUeTZAQJYWWhI9jZSVe1BpLz1greWqj-a7hwBLEt0ZVqoyJVS3uIokQsjioK0lgH7QuA3ICh6YbxmmorccQH0EkuJsFoT0jwlw0t6gxtGkwgp02lrI6GgJIW5rX9I524jrPB8/s1600/45.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZRv8srzKWUeTZAQJYWWhI9jZSVe1BpLz1greWqj-a7hwBLEt0ZVqoyJVS3uIokQsjioK0lgH7QuA3ICh6YbxmmorccQH0EkuJsFoT0jwlw0t6gxtGkwgp02lrI6GgJIW5rX9I524jrPB8/s1600/45.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It is time to let the past go and<br />
embrace the future</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZTNNvH0zxOG7e9kgOCiORSxZM_OZrQtnIZUbYl5d7GCQeUngiYS64eradoPpsOegMjj8cuCQtn7VAjB7XVSiCqnod0elH0NIZIXrdZpJr14J7df2Pe0mR39Z6_d_7plSUOPSSDqLipAZO/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZTNNvH0zxOG7e9kgOCiORSxZM_OZrQtnIZUbYl5d7GCQeUngiYS64eradoPpsOegMjj8cuCQtn7VAjB7XVSiCqnod0elH0NIZIXrdZpJr14J7df2Pe0mR39Z6_d_7plSUOPSSDqLipAZO/s1600/1.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Be thankful for what you have<br />
already received</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFnoXUb6yqzdoftaYZCPnj3KBjqdsjyWYmQUBhRQXrPylC2N-MorOCOh28TiyWmCSL3xABcwj6MoKQFB0ssc15CypwqJq4kVY_uOThpN9dA-RrfUx8lpYFWSyLKkN5djRThkkrjdQVzAT6/s1600/untitled.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFnoXUb6yqzdoftaYZCPnj3KBjqdsjyWYmQUBhRQXrPylC2N-MorOCOh28TiyWmCSL3xABcwj6MoKQFB0ssc15CypwqJq4kVY_uOThpN9dA-RrfUx8lpYFWSyLKkN5djRThkkrjdQVzAT6/s1600/untitled.png" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You already know what everything<br />
that you need to succeed</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<u><b>The Faeries' Oracle by Brian Froud</b></u></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXks4cHn0FtguJvuihfFQBajVrxlYlcQyEv9A9vU-rUoVd4iLaRhcZIOSRz_tm8TTFDzW1FSEpnWdp1uHKPzsjVBuhXjssZguzTcxbOBmkuNGbhydUfNEL41sJD1oSh74kODYMODYlWRNL/s1600/faeries-oracle-04984.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXks4cHn0FtguJvuihfFQBajVrxlYlcQyEv9A9vU-rUoVd4iLaRhcZIOSRz_tm8TTFDzW1FSEpnWdp1uHKPzsjVBuhXjssZguzTcxbOBmkuNGbhydUfNEL41sJD1oSh74kODYMODYlWRNL/s1600/faeries-oracle-04984.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You hold great wisdom</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLXxsSrEYyhfaLY-HBEPNk6PMkUHDsWIz3wj7rxl_wQYd98U0fd0A4SaxgkQNZpVQ8HBu_gH0dWzMT3zszkLyyqmsFi1RGsGLOSdJPxVr22pVB2G79BuLeSWB9a1UzmPiCl_-tLVjtt9N1/s1600/faery_oracle_36.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLXxsSrEYyhfaLY-HBEPNk6PMkUHDsWIz3wj7rxl_wQYd98U0fd0A4SaxgkQNZpVQ8HBu_gH0dWzMT3zszkLyyqmsFi1RGsGLOSdJPxVr22pVB2G79BuLeSWB9a1UzmPiCl_-tLVjtt9N1/s1600/faery_oracle_36.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Embrace your inner child</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<u><b>The Heart of Faerie Oracle by Wendy Froud</b></u></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2Ldx2D8uJVLUaiTzip_HB1Wrwx4SR-vSGntCAcKeVEATylXQBiYA52QolXBbMEt-R3FRfVvOX9jmqMXwnHGA8ykWfQWvan-8tBN6ZSks4LdwnFNeQ4_1_Rt4ZTcOK45BAdejWFsoDEVFD/s1600/heart-faerie-oracle-08713.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2Ldx2D8uJVLUaiTzip_HB1Wrwx4SR-vSGntCAcKeVEATylXQBiYA52QolXBbMEt-R3FRfVvOX9jmqMXwnHGA8ykWfQWvan-8tBN6ZSks4LdwnFNeQ4_1_Rt4ZTcOK45BAdejWFsoDEVFD/s1600/heart-faerie-oracle-08713.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Laughter is essential for life</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsC0OnVhAhBkgT158nzTZljJDEEfyv7pE15_xVBdVmgpgTKWQGD4ZCFas9sSVD5IOCfIf1gEsvBvDwwpWafglm9gW8gKRg9XDu-c64N-h2_xD-meYYEwOEZE_fD9YkLvBE_lVHDDFzyy5l/s1600/LofUnicorns.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsC0OnVhAhBkgT158nzTZljJDEEfyv7pE15_xVBdVmgpgTKWQGD4ZCFas9sSVD5IOCfIf1gEsvBvDwwpWafglm9gW8gKRg9XDu-c64N-h2_xD-meYYEwOEZE_fD9YkLvBE_lVHDDFzyy5l/s1600/LofUnicorns.JPG" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Magick is all around us</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div>
Well that's all for today. I hope ya'll have a great weekend and as always: Blessed Be!</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-732243169594714751.post-31713322218670148182012-07-27T01:15:00.001-04:002013-07-09T01:38:31.493-04:00Phoenix Rising<br />
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The first few lines
of this poem just came to me while I was trying to go to sleep. They were so
emotional that I had to write them down. Once I started writing I couldn't stop
and this is the result, without editing or review. It's very descriptive of my
life and I think the words and the imagery are beautiful, I even cried a little while writing. I decided that I couldn't wait to post it and see what ya'll thought about it.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfNOuSoOWZWCsgmIgwHodV2QdBZFHpyIQ6B1LSQNCp9tJa-rHeMRN3v1tr2aN7HuXofbGeOte67tvPKmNHen3IOWRG5EmQP0nqMSBOIRpVjexU2MVGxiGo8pOKDMpWt2H39CsbjChafpN3/s1600/phoenix_by_brandrificus-d3a8eeq.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfNOuSoOWZWCsgmIgwHodV2QdBZFHpyIQ6B1LSQNCp9tJa-rHeMRN3v1tr2aN7HuXofbGeOte67tvPKmNHen3IOWRG5EmQP0nqMSBOIRpVjexU2MVGxiGo8pOKDMpWt2H39CsbjChafpN3/s320/phoenix_by_brandrificus-d3a8eeq.jpg" width="318" /></a></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br />
<a name='more'></a><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in;">
</div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I am falling,
tumbling</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The ground rises to
break me</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">My wings are
shattered, torn</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">They cannot hold me,
cannot lift me</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I am fragile, broken</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">An empty shell</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Lying still, I
breathe</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Trying to think, I
dream</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I remember flying
high</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Soaring through the
clouds</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">My world was
shattered, broken</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">No one can help me
now</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I scream, I wail</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">No one can hear my
cry</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I feel the flames</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">They torch my soul</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Tonight is where I
die</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCzm8HOmJUJqtAbZ8BMwm8mz5Nigdmlc5zZeRyuZAyboDU64HqZ5FhvjU1SiaWqSkhy8gmQlU2AWip-kDJh92lTgatzMppK0MaTQNjb9gcLYaa8D206MMknCPfPrM8JVlmzNkKiXFVKCA-/s1600/phoenix_by_blackmage9-d4wy2il.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCzm8HOmJUJqtAbZ8BMwm8mz5Nigdmlc5zZeRyuZAyboDU64HqZ5FhvjU1SiaWqSkhy8gmQlU2AWip-kDJh92lTgatzMppK0MaTQNjb9gcLYaa8D206MMknCPfPrM8JVlmzNkKiXFVKCA-/s320/phoenix_by_blackmage9-d4wy2il.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">My sins are my
funeral pyre</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I blaze in the glorious fire</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I am burnt, I am
scorched</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I am rekindled, I am
new</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I rise from the
ashes that I once was</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I soar from the pain
that I once knew</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Reborn from the
flame</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Renewed from the
fire</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Wrapped in gowns of
crimson</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">My feathers are
tipped in gold</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Now a vermilion
fire-bird</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I cry with a
strength of ages untold</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Soaring again in the
heavens</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I embrace my
beautiful release</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">What once was my
death note taken</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Is now my power and
peace</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Away I fly from the
horror</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">From the sins of a
past gone to rest</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I rise like the
flames of the pyre</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">A phoenix rising to
the test.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">After I finished writing I noticed that the first stanza is very sharp and the lines are kinda clipped and blunt. There is also not a lot of rhyming. However the lines in the second stanza are long and flowing with several rhymes. I also noticed that the vocabulary became richer in the second stanza. Again there was no editing involved I basically </span>vomited<span style="font-family: inherit;"> on paper (a phrase from my high school Lit teacher) and then posted it straight away. I don't usually edit things, especially poetry, because I believe there is a reason why I chose that phrasing in that instant of time and that reason can add depth and meaning to your work. I would love to hear your reviews of this and your takes on the symbolism behind the differences in the stanzas. Oh and I know I used the first pic before on my magickal names post, but I thought the scene fit really well with the overall imagery of the poem. And yes the second is supposed to be Phoenix from the X-men (yes I am a nerd) but again I thought it fit well. Here are two more that I liked and that I think fit well. P.S. I get the majority of my pictures from <a href="http://www.deviantart.com/">Deviant Art</a>, I love the artwork on there and the people are amazingly talented. </span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2hZhPFvVPJaqnlniBwMm7W6NhSzNLLGi-m8MDuWFupz8V-lotok2HmFRwqY7pEU2wdet7piUDw1M1PRK_cqjmR5_BR2yjQYtcdCNQy08hrb_hWhyphenhyphenhlOAzsnAp55RC7OhJxIJedxhF4yU_/s1600/Fallen_Angel_by_cemac.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2hZhPFvVPJaqnlniBwMm7W6NhSzNLLGi-m8MDuWFupz8V-lotok2HmFRwqY7pEU2wdet7piUDw1M1PRK_cqjmR5_BR2yjQYtcdCNQy08hrb_hWhyphenhyphenhlOAzsnAp55RC7OhJxIJedxhF4yU_/s320/Fallen_Angel_by_cemac.jpg" width="256" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQu_WL7hxRKTLEzfFrb6KchIQg4Xiv9ZgV8YXEYoaBifym7HzjcbMXGRkd4IrYJLP6oF2k_VBjX8KtHZAnYk7qahsNdAfzh8tCnQ8dV-9akJuxdCfjYkQp7FJgBTO862IPzN7Jys-mij1k/s1600/phoenix_by_bamfette-d1xvas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQu_WL7hxRKTLEzfFrb6KchIQg4Xiv9ZgV8YXEYoaBifym7HzjcbMXGRkd4IrYJLP6oF2k_VBjX8KtHZAnYk7qahsNdAfzh8tCnQ8dV-9akJuxdCfjYkQp7FJgBTO862IPzN7Jys-mij1k/s320/phoenix_by_bamfette-d1xvas.jpg" width="199" /></a></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Well I am going back to bed now to rest my weary wings and renew my burnt batteries. I hope you all have sweet dreams and </span>restful<span style="font-family: inherit;"> sleeps.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">As always Blessed Be and lots of love!!</span></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-732243169594714751.post-44332212719278270722012-07-24T22:25:00.002-04:002013-05-20T12:24:16.218-04:00Jobs and AtheismHey guys! I hope ya'll are doing great. Update on the whole job scandal: I will get put on payroll on the 6th of August. That means that I won't get paid for this week or next week, not to mention the month I've already been there, but I will get paid for any time after that. WHICH SUCKS!!! I'm kinda torn about whether I should stay or go. I mean I've already put in so much time trying to get this job that I feel like I need to just go ahead and finish it out. Besides I need this job if I ever hope to get into vet school. On the other hand though is the fact that these people will get a month and a half of my time and I get nothing for it. I just feel really lost and really confused about what I should do.<br />
<div>
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br /></div>
<div>
But I had another thing bashing around in my head all day today that I would like to share. OK, so my boss asked me today where I go to church. Not that unusual I get asked that a lot so I told him the truth and said that I don't go to church. His next question hit me like a ton of bricks: "Why, are you atheist?"</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Alright like I said, I am used to people asking me about church and my religion and I usually just tell them that I am spiritual and I believe in "god" but I don't adhere to any religion and I don't like going to church. That way I can tell the truth without having the backlash that usually comes with telling people I am pagan. But I have never been asked if I am an atheist. I didn't know what to say I was so stunned. He honestly thought that not going to church meant that I didn't believe in the divine. Do people honestly not understand that "church" is only a Christian tradition. Even Muslim and Islamic traditions, which worship the same god as Christians, don't do "church". It was like he didn't even acknowledge that there are other religions and other choices. To him it the Christian God or no god at all.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I was actually pretty pissed. This is an excellent example of why I turn my back on the Christian tradition. Now I totally believe that there is no right way to the divine and I honestly don't have anything against the belief in Jesus Christ. What I don't agree with, and the main source of my bitter attitude toward Christianity, is the centuries of brainwashing people into believing that it's either the Christian way or the highway.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The whole situation had me flashing back to the day when I finally made my decision to become pagan. It was during the time that I was floundering spiritually and I was trying to find answers and hope and I was going to youth group at my childhood church to learn more about Jesus Christ and the Christian path as well as doing research into other faiths. I had been going for about a month when they took all of the kids who hadn't be baptized or "saved" to talk to the preacher. He talked to us separately and asked why we had not been baptized yet. I told him that I did not want to go through with it yet because I still had concerns and questions. He asked me what they were and I told him that I didn't believe in everything that the church and the Bible taught: like homosexuals are evil and anyone who does not believe in Jesus is damned. He actually told me that I was wrong and that I should forget everything that I personally believed and replace them with what the Bible and the church told me to believe. No I am not exaggerating, those where his EXACT words. That was when I realized that I could never find what I was seeking on the Christian path and today's situation brought back all of those negative feelings.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Again, I don't have anything against Christianity in general and I believe at it's core it has great values and intentions. I do however, have something against Christians and their haughty attitudes and their narrow mindedness. We are in 21st century people not the freakin' dark ages. It's past time to realized that different does not equal wrong or evil or less than. We are not robots or the damn Stepford Wives. We are not all going to look the same or dress the same or even believe the same. So get over and shut up!</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-732243169594714751.post-41015203480280102722012-07-23T19:34:00.000-04:002013-05-20T12:24:35.068-04:00A Very Lost Wicked WytchOkay so today is gonna be a simple and pretty short post, but I was hoping to get some frustration off my chest and hopefully get some advice if ya'll have any.<br />
<br />
I put in an application to one of the vet offices in town about three months ago. A few weeks after I put in the application I got a call back from them asking me to come in for an interview. I ended up going back for another one a few weeks after that. After about a month of going back and forth for interviews, they told me I had the job as a vet tech. YAY!? Well I celebrated too soon.<br />
<br />
I noticed something hinky after about the first week: they had not given me any paperwork to sign, which is not a good thing because that means I am not on their insurance or workman's comp which means if I get hurt they are screwed. OK weird but hey they might have just gotten distracted, it does get pretty busy there and there is a major employee shuffle going on (they are losing three techs and there are two including me in training). Well the week before last (3rd week working) I took matters into my own hands and asked the office manager about paperwork and I was wondering when I would get my first paycheck. I was told that I was still in my training period and guess what: I DON'T GET PAID FOR TRAINING! So that means they got three weeks of my labor and they don't have to give me anything for it.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br /><br />
Okay so I gave them one more week to get everything straightened out and put me on payroll. I know some of ya'll are wondering why I put up with it that long and that's because I am getting ready to go to vet school in about two years and working at a vet office means that I have a better chance of getting in. So I went to them today after four weeks of working and asked about paperwork and payroll. They spun me in circles and each person told me that I had to talk to someone else (RIDICULOUS).<br />
<br />
So now I have to decide whether to bury my pride and keep going up there without getting paid so I can get the experience or tell them that I have to be put on payroll tomorrow or I walk. I don't want to leave because I love working with the animals and the possibility of a paid job seems better than going back on the hunt. Yet I am not the girl who lays down and lets people walk all over me, which is what they are trying to do.<br />
<br />
I am definitely going to meditate tonight and see if the Goddess will give me some help. I have even considered doing a Tarot spread to see what the cards have to tell me. I might even do a money/job spell and tweak it to my particular situation.<br />
<br />
Well that's it for today. I know it wasn't particularly pagan but it is a speed bump on my path and I need guidance from my community and deities, so that makes it spiritual and therefore pagan. If ya'll have any advice please let me know, I could really use it.<br />
<br />
As always BLESSED BE!!<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-732243169594714751.post-37383159525947599972012-07-21T21:17:00.001-04:002013-05-20T12:24:55.658-04:00Owls In Myth and Legend<span style="font-family: inherit;">Okay it's a little late but like they say, "Better late than never!" So here is my first "O" post for the Pagan Blog Project. I decided to do Owls and their connection to different pagan traditions (mainly Celtic and Cherokee but I also threw in some Greek). I have always had a special love and affinity for owls so this post is one that is close to my heart.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsCz-8BMIYVv4yHEOT7IJqeaSMv7tMHkU6NhZy7Z3vjNcWDrPqY744RYvY_y0DSwcqdQU0aPc25VBkQ13W7cRbalFMUS4qQ7SxxDdIO-nzswPCiYP0un-i9HAfXkoM7IXuqm5Kmr4NKP3j/s1600/Owl_Painting_by_Jaochim.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsCz-8BMIYVv4yHEOT7IJqeaSMv7tMHkU6NhZy7Z3vjNcWDrPqY744RYvY_y0DSwcqdQU0aPc25VBkQ13W7cRbalFMUS4qQ7SxxDdIO-nzswPCiYP0un-i9HAfXkoM7IXuqm5Kmr4NKP3j/s200/Owl_Painting_by_Jaochim.jpg" width="198" /></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
One of the most well known myths about owls is the sacred owl companion of the Greek goddess Athena. Originally she had a crow as her companion. she eventually grew tired of the crows prankster attitude and banished him. Seeking a replacement, Athena chose the owl for her wisdom and serious nature. As Athena's companion, the owl would reveal to her unseen truths.</div>
<br />
In the Celtic tradition, the owl is know as cailleach-oidhche and she represents wisdom, stealth, initiation, change and detachment. She is clairvoyant and a seeker of deeper knowledge. She is also a sign that death is only a new beginning. She has great intuition and courage and she always follows her instincts. She is a bringer of hidden truth, omens, and secrets and she can help unmask those who wish to deceive you. Barn owls are especially sacred and known for being able to see the hidden and hear the unspoken. This is because barn owls have exceptional hearing and sight, even compared to other owls.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br /><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHTx6IZ4YfPU9IJvCYUYw26FSzPib1v9FOAho6jf8acSw9d6pPj0IPQB6s3mUp1-65-RTFO8rCEhMllVqcEw3i3B47sdKNMTMrk6v7qeBxdDnfLqK2Gs_VP4B19f7EI3q483zRSNLKbzt6/s1600/th.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHTx6IZ4YfPU9IJvCYUYw26FSzPib1v9FOAho6jf8acSw9d6pPj0IPQB6s3mUp1-65-RTFO8rCEhMllVqcEw3i3B47sdKNMTMrk6v7qeBxdDnfLqK2Gs_VP4B19f7EI3q483zRSNLKbzt6/s1600/th.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The owl is a sacred animal associated with the goddesses of the Underworld and she is a guide between that realm and ours. Raptors are often associated with the Moon and the Crone aspect of the Triple Goddess. This association can also bring connotations of death and darkness. Not only are owls sacred in Celtic traditions, but they are believed to have magickal powers due to their ability to see in the darkness.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">In the Welsh tradition, owls symbolize death and renewal, wisdom, moon magick, and initiations. The Goddess Arianrhod's second form is that of an owl and uses the sight the owl to see into the darkness of the human soul. Her wings bring comfort and healing to those who seek it.
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2Ib91upoRcblgmNuoMDcav_FFfJ_F-jm46XXxX8FmVpniArfMghluJq6uSToI-JDBYaENr1G37hecqiJi5giCIb8G3OfqR7GUbe4CUgEfXBsJHIWbXCbHc7j6qJWTZXgwSm2WEurofj9g/s1600/JessWebPicArianrhod.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2Ib91upoRcblgmNuoMDcav_FFfJ_F-jm46XXxX8FmVpniArfMghluJq6uSToI-JDBYaENr1G37hecqiJi5giCIb8G3OfqR7GUbe4CUgEfXBsJHIWbXCbHc7j6qJWTZXgwSm2WEurofj9g/s320/JessWebPicArianrhod.jpg" width="231" /></span></a></div>
<div style="margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">A famous Celtic
legend about owls tells of
Blodeuwedd. The hero Lleu Llaw Gyffes has been told by his mother Arianrhod that he may never marry an ordinary human wife. To counteract her declaration, the magicians Math and Gwydion (his uncle) gather flowers of broom, meadowsweet, and oak and create from them a beautiful woman and named her Blodeuwedd (meaning 'flower face'). Blodeuwedd has an affair and her and her lover conspire to murder Lleu. However, Lleu cannot be killed at day or night, indoors or outdoors, riding or walking, clothed or naked, nor by any weapon lawfully made. Blodeuwedd tricks Lleu into revealing that he can be killed at dusk, wrapped in a net with one foot on a cauldron and one on a goat and with a spear forged for a year during the hours of mass. Using this information, Blodewedd arranges Lleu's death. When Lleu is struck by the spear, he transforms into an eagle and flies away. The magician Gwydion finds Lleu and manages to return him to his human form. As part of Lleu's revenge, he transforms Blodeuwedd into an owl because the owl is despised by other birds and that is why the owl hunts at night while other birds rest.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXU1X-bgCXs_F10eKMuq__810xQRN9tPoO2h82l1bO0Yf-qjUjAnKxkqmeqqCpO8Vokcle5Rolk9Laws0c1h0SHrXQ1ZjulX_bjehl_prnNMbCAAobZWCXq6MCA2UL6TUstU06CnLTLrR_/s1600/bloddewued.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXU1X-bgCXs_F10eKMuq__810xQRN9tPoO2h82l1bO0Yf-qjUjAnKxkqmeqqCpO8Vokcle5Rolk9Laws0c1h0SHrXQ1ZjulX_bjehl_prnNMbCAAobZWCXq6MCA2UL6TUstU06CnLTLrR_/s320/bloddewued.jpg" width="218" /></span></a></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0in; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Within the Cherokee
nation, the owl reached the ultimate level of sacredness and purity. The owl,
along with the cougar, were the only creatures that did not fall asleep during
the seven days of Creation, and that is the reason why they are nocturnal. They
are also sacred because of their human characteristics. The owl has large round
eyes situated at the front of its face, just like a human. She can also close
each one individually. Cherokee shamans believed that Eastern Screech Owls were
consultants on punishment and sickness. To this day owls represent vision and
insight.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNEFpkVTENMs-sptdPn9rqO-XITmZ_ywtWmRLTL2GQTHocwQTRjfitSgSWQYD_TwQSQk8ie7mlE8957MvCbzcoF8DpvIMuU3V9RCdHy5dK5ALititcK-eXrdLLxIBawHWryLQloBaeDBM2/s1600/dreamcatcher_by_flyingsalmon-d4k7to7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNEFpkVTENMs-sptdPn9rqO-XITmZ_ywtWmRLTL2GQTHocwQTRjfitSgSWQYD_TwQSQk8ie7mlE8957MvCbzcoF8DpvIMuU3V9RCdHy5dK5ALititcK-eXrdLLxIBawHWryLQloBaeDBM2/s320/dreamcatcher_by_flyingsalmon-d4k7to7.jpg" width="215" /></span></a></div>
<div style="margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in;">
</div>
<div style="margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Many cultures focus
on the dark aspects of owl symbolism due to human's fear of the dark and the
creatures that dwell there. The hoot of an owl is a portent of death and bad
luck. Modern medicine has confirmed that the majority of people die at night,
therefore the owl, the raptor of the night, is seen as a messenger of death.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The owl is a mysterious and mystical animal that appears in many cultures and myths. She is a symbol of wisdom and knowledge as well as a creature of the night. This combination reveals the owl to be a creature capable of clairvoyance and premonition.</span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-732243169594714751.post-60960763694865570712012-07-18T23:42:00.000-04:002013-05-20T12:25:15.312-04:00Respect the VeilHey guys, hope ya'll had a good weekend. I know I've missed a couple posts for this week, it's just been one of those weeks, and I could not think of anything to write about, but thankfully my writer's block has been cured. Thanks to the lovely ladies at Covered In Light and It's Only Cloth, I have a topic that is controversial, widespread, and extremely important for any woman whether she be Pagan or otherwise.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
The topic for today is concerned with women who veil, which means they cover their head and/or hair for spiritual reasons. Covered In Light is a group, a sisterhood as they call themselves, of pagan women who have chosen or been called to veil themselves. Their mission is to raise awareness of the discrimination that women face when they do make the decision to wear a veil. These women are met with outright anger and hatred and are often shunned for their choice in dress. Those individuals who act so heinously towards these women defend themselves by claiming that veiling is wrong because it oppresses women and supports the Muslim and Islamic faiths (I will discuss this shortly). The sisterhood has decided that this year they will hold the First Annual International Covered in Light Day on which they ask women of all faiths to wear a covering to show support for women who choose to veil.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhboOax3RICFdmN0Ewin6-i7IV2r9VERp3tAOYby5hQ91YRHz0QzTaYABkszwYLN-TwXU31tRuA_HWxRR9V6sfllklERqRwlDX6hHjtMey0NvGyp7tWwUGWN2645B2uWDlgq6odH-08fW6E/s1600/cilday1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhboOax3RICFdmN0Ewin6-i7IV2r9VERp3tAOYby5hQ91YRHz0QzTaYABkszwYLN-TwXU31tRuA_HWxRR9V6sfllklERqRwlDX6hHjtMey0NvGyp7tWwUGWN2645B2uWDlgq6odH-08fW6E/s320/cilday1.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br /><br />
I LOVE this idea and I plan on participating and hopefully sparking interest in others to participate. I think it is distasteful and ridiculous that these women have been mistreated because of a simple piece of cloth. What make me the angriest is how these horrible people try to defend themselves. They claim that a veil oppresses women. Pardon my French but: THAT IS THE BIGGEST PILE OF BULL-SHIT EVER!!!! These women are CHOOSING to wear a veil, they have not been FORCED to wear it.<br />
<br />
Yes, I am completely aware that there are women who are forced to wear veils against their will and I do think that it is unacceptable. However, that is not always the case and besides there are a lot more women being oppressed by other means. Hell American women are being oppressed every day by advertising and clothing lines bashing the idea into their heads that they have to be fifty pounds, have size DD knockers, have an ass like J-Lo, and wear see-through bikinis and Daisy Dukes to be considered pretty. These women are expressing their individuality as well as showing devotion to their god/goddess. They are not oppressed, expect by bigots and assholes who harass them and try to force them to remove their veils.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTag6LTUfxxEn4KHYYEaJz3m05vpd5ArULYhp0YfP2sPjtBMwq1vSrQZ_DSpwQEuouQg1SLpuIiIl9H3U9Dnl5Ibaw4nbCZBbaWeAD4EH6zYvX8A48JbSUaGyeTW7yUrpXCT3NvVPSieXF/s1600/Rosie-the-Riveter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTag6LTUfxxEn4KHYYEaJz3m05vpd5ArULYhp0YfP2sPjtBMwq1vSrQZ_DSpwQEuouQg1SLpuIiIl9H3U9Dnl5Ibaw4nbCZBbaWeAD4EH6zYvX8A48JbSUaGyeTW7yUrpXCT3NvVPSieXF/s320/Rosie-the-Riveter.jpg" width="247" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rosie the Riveter covering her hair with a bandana</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk08-GlkMQjOISgTtLoG-5iRpOBtMa1IRaRs3-8CHneTlyv6YZyeFtm_Re7Idfo6cE05fN4FDZXVljQ_Xky29YnwN3rJyMxMXyXw42qsYJGsLG4KKH7QKhDzK8Ah8dC7V0tgCpO5bRgr7W/s1600/struth.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk08-GlkMQjOISgTtLoG-5iRpOBtMa1IRaRs3-8CHneTlyv6YZyeFtm_Re7Idfo6cE05fN4FDZXVljQ_Xky29YnwN3rJyMxMXyXw42qsYJGsLG4KKH7QKhDzK8Ah8dC7V0tgCpO5bRgr7W/s320/struth.jpg" width="287" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sojourner Truth wearing a head covering</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Clearly these women were not oppressed. Both Rosie and Sojourner Truth are symbols of women's rights and equal treatment for all. Their choice in covering their heads is just that, a choice.<br />
<br />
They also try to claim that their are being patriotic because veils support the Muslim and Islamic faiths. Number 1: SO THE FUCK WHAT! Who cares if they are Muslim or Islamic or Buddhist or from freaking Mars. IT IS NONE OF YOUR BUSINESS!!!! I am sick and tired of people claiming that people who are Middle Eastern or Muslim or Islamic are American hating, women oppressing, terrorists. Yes, the people responsible for 9/11 and all of that hateful stuff happened to be Islamic. That does not mean that every single person who is part of that faith is a terrorist. Number 2: VEILS DO NOT EQUAL MUSLIM OR ISLAMIC!! Come on people, if you are going to be hateful and pigheaded at least do your homework and do it right. Veils are not exclusive to the Muslim or Islamic faiths.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMyhBPruKGUzo9oR3f3d6c9oZbu79Ts-DewYS9_sWMTSaJ9BfdgB50yMfafrFkmByuNm21Jj5tr8Ev3YOwla3cMhbpLpUZ90IQ8jEGb2QTX35PrcRG6b58qJUpOMSuurPrKgdqG5FIPoFP/s1600/beautiful-nuns.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMyhBPruKGUzo9oR3f3d6c9oZbu79Ts-DewYS9_sWMTSaJ9BfdgB50yMfafrFkmByuNm21Jj5tr8Ev3YOwla3cMhbpLpUZ90IQ8jEGb2QTX35PrcRG6b58qJUpOMSuurPrKgdqG5FIPoFP/s320/beautiful-nuns.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Catholic nuns during service wearing the traditional habit</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWmG9EsdYUTxNiRFvpo1zf8F6awVvzyChXf3Nk-wx0XItl4f7E1sShnWqK-6__aavbjpZuHqFTK7vavyi_owEV3ougxImpp4lwjpWO4HwB4mdd3_znfHJDBefiVWpZzc9cjpEu11fhXN7Y/s1600/Veil_Nancy_Reagan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="251" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWmG9EsdYUTxNiRFvpo1zf8F6awVvzyChXf3Nk-wx0XItl4f7E1sShnWqK-6__aavbjpZuHqFTK7vavyi_owEV3ougxImpp4lwjpWO4HwB4mdd3_znfHJDBefiVWpZzc9cjpEu11fhXN7Y/s320/Veil_Nancy_Reagan.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First Lady Nancy Reagan wearing a veil with the Pope</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEzFIuI5e1cobCNCNIlRCO_Tbk04FgmW2-B5Uo3rvJhIRj0GVGNT1bG8o5e-tQdEh4B96B_0YnzUpE4Hw9N2cOiJm0J2ekD1SqgQZknRwQingJUQRm6pmBkfpq-tXfLkLYs7_62YBVIfhP/s1600/800px-Women_praying_in_the_Western_Wall_tunnels_by_David_Shankbone.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEzFIuI5e1cobCNCNIlRCO_Tbk04FgmW2-B5Uo3rvJhIRj0GVGNT1bG8o5e-tQdEh4B96B_0YnzUpE4Hw9N2cOiJm0J2ekD1SqgQZknRwQingJUQRm6pmBkfpq-tXfLkLYs7_62YBVIfhP/s320/800px-Women_praying_in_the_Western_Wall_tunnels_by_David_Shankbone.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Orthodox Jewish women wearing head coverings</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFiEGz0jvt3kciQQRXbn4e3qzirnvj-dnmzDHcqwLunoangciovQL2I4cgGraRArax5NYbv_hI47XLr5m6LIlcJtlIVi1dDnicA6EoiFw0XhKRCmvcwPpvp3DT9IXYgwUYCjmLKZSeJM9W/s1600/Eleanor-of-Aquitaine-51244266a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFiEGz0jvt3kciQQRXbn4e3qzirnvj-dnmzDHcqwLunoangciovQL2I4cgGraRArax5NYbv_hI47XLr5m6LIlcJtlIVi1dDnicA6EoiFw0XhKRCmvcwPpvp3DT9IXYgwUYCjmLKZSeJM9W/s320/Eleanor-of-Aquitaine-51244266a.jpg" width="229" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Eleanor of Aquitaine, Queen of France (Catholic)<br />
wearing a veil</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
So lets stop the excuses and the bigotry and let people be. Like I said before, it's none of our business if a woman chooses to cover her hair. They are not being oppressed and they are not supporting a terrorist faction. They are just supporting their belief that women can choose to wear whatever they want while showing their devotion to their deity.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I ask everyone to go to the <a href="http://coveredinlight.org/">Covered in Light</a> blog as well as their sister blog <a href="http://itsonlycloth.wordpress.com/">It's Only Cloth</a> and read more about women who veil and the Annual International Covered in Light Day.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSChTEgDyRIU2Wp08w3ZD4ouVpRMnV6bouUAK8XpVtjKaP5pqoxJf2WraXhHc2m9US3PwfKIVqAauEOnJZwRCrm3ByqBgeRzarkYTWSsX3piv7lyYopF0UmT5n2x1Ij972iRWO5sMUws9K/s1600/cilposter2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSChTEgDyRIU2Wp08w3ZD4ouVpRMnV6bouUAK8XpVtjKaP5pqoxJf2WraXhHc2m9US3PwfKIVqAauEOnJZwRCrm3ByqBgeRzarkYTWSsX3piv7lyYopF0UmT5n2x1Ij972iRWO5sMUws9K/s320/cilposter2.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
As always thanks for reading and Blessed Be!!</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-732243169594714751.post-27061319544489896902012-07-14T00:24:00.003-04:002013-05-20T12:25:28.975-04:00Names, Magickal NamesIT'S FINALLY FRIDAY!!! I've been leading up to this post all week and now I'm finally get to talk about Magickal Names. I love discussing magickal names because it is such and intensely personal and complex process (if you do it right).<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Taking a magickal name means choosing a name other than your birth name to use during ritual and other craft practices. Magickal names are not required but they do add dimension and mysticism to your work. I took on a magickal name as part of my spiritual dedication to the craft and my deities. When part of a coven, it is often traditional to study for a year and a day before deciding on ones magickal name. Being a solitary practitioner, I had no limits or guidelines to how or when I chose my name. It was a long time before I discovered my name, and I do mean discovered because I never made the conscious decision to take on a magickal name.</div>
<div>
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br /><br />
There are many ways of discovering your magickal name. It can be revealed to you through meditation or dreams. It can be bestowed upon you by you High Priestess or coven. You can create it by combining certain traits and aspects of yourself along with your totems or spirit animals. Some choose to name themselves after their patron deity. A rare but possible phenomenon is where your patron deity reveals themselves to you in a vision and reveals your name to you. Some people believe that names received in this manner are actually our true names. True names are different than magickal or craft names because it is believed that ones true name is part of that person and can be used to control them. Therefore it s tradition to never reveal ones true name to others unless you trust them with your life.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I have not yet discovered my true name (and I am a little apprehensive to know it). However I have discovered my magickal name Phoenix Starfire. Like I said I never really decided to choose a name, but like many things: my name chose me.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I began my journey into Paganism in response to a pretty traumatic stretch of years where I lost many people close to me. The breaking point was when my uncle passed very suddenly of drowning with suspected foul play. No we have never determined what happened. I had been floundering as far as spirituality went for awhile before this happened. I was raised Baptist but had long turned my back on the Christian beliefs. There were some moments when I lost all faith in the divine. After my uncle's death, I began to search for answers, for any connection I could get to a higher power. I felt raw and empty, kinda burnt up and destroyed. I wanted to have faith, faith that I was not alone and that there was something or someone watching, faith that there was something after death, but I knew that I could not find what I sought within the confines of the Christian faith.<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
So I started digging, and the more I dug the more I was drawn into the Pagan community. I began to believe again, to have faith again. I found my spirituality and in so doing, that burnt and destroyed feeling began to fade. I still feel the flicker of flames, but instead of a destructive inferno within my soul, I feel the cleansing burn of my Goddess. I am the newly born phoenix rising from it's predecessors funeral pyre to greet the new dawn. I am something proud and graceful and rare. I am unique and powerful. I am a firebird who does not get burned. I am Phoenix.<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZH9hTq-zU-4t42IQP3Ot6IfPiqtR9jRIOt9maOXfjIvH1NrUaPGmECNNB9EIhQzBcp8-0T4iriVa4wwCwA28R_jX2JFSC-UCtdaNuLXROUQ33h_TY94FEJ9yLGZH8U0WY8etvr2M_mSQF/s1600/phoenix_by_brandrificus-d3a8eeq.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZH9hTq-zU-4t42IQP3Ot6IfPiqtR9jRIOt9maOXfjIvH1NrUaPGmECNNB9EIhQzBcp8-0T4iriVa4wwCwA28R_jX2JFSC-UCtdaNuLXROUQ33h_TY94FEJ9yLGZH8U0WY8etvr2M_mSQF/s320/phoenix_by_brandrificus-d3a8eeq.jpg" width="319" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div>
After I discovered my magickal name, I decided that I would pair it with another name for when I am at functions and group rituals. I guess I just don't like doing the whole one name thing: it's too Madonna :). So I began to combine certain words that I felt connected with and that paired well with Phoenix. Of course I tried various forms of fire combined with bird or eagle, but that never worked, it never felt RIGHT. So I did a little more soul searching and the word star kept sticking in my mind. I liked the idea of having star in my name because stars are symbols of achievement and authority as well as symbols of protection, balance, truth, hope, and the heavens it just fit so well with why I started my spiritual journey: a search for balance and hope.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
But Phoenix Star just doesn't have a ring to (at least it doesn't to me). So I tried to think up another word to pair with Star that would represent another trait of my personality. Again I tried many things and it didn't work. Then I decided to go back to fire, after all Phoenixes can only be reborn after they have died by fire.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUAQHTNHlSiijjDkZXLHLieVeG-CJoanOx7X57ds3ywCkGl9Ni_tP4vGrCJE8-XjRON2bv6oxrpzDfYKGJpQQiMqXrI5gQZ938ICrIS3OgBE1uF5Vpl-kXmjDSsqtKde-j5Lc_j2NtTjal/s1600/Eye_of_Fire_by_A_DD.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUAQHTNHlSiijjDkZXLHLieVeG-CJoanOx7X57ds3ywCkGl9Ni_tP4vGrCJE8-XjRON2bv6oxrpzDfYKGJpQQiMqXrI5gQZ938ICrIS3OgBE1uF5Vpl-kXmjDSsqtKde-j5Lc_j2NtTjal/s320/Eye_of_Fire_by_A_DD.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Besides, I have always had a connection to fire (technically I should be diagnosed as a pyromaniac), I am an Aries whose element is fire, and the symbolism of fire fits with my personality: passionate, spirited, intense, creative, and untamed. So I tried several different forms of the word: flame, blaze, ember, inferno, and of course fire. Starfire really popped out at me, it sound better than Starblaze or Starflame. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I really convinced myself that Phoenix Starfire was my magickal name when I began studying numerology. It is a widespread custom to use one's Life Path number (usually referred to as Birthday number but it is the same) to determine whether the name you have chosen is acceptable. How it works is you first determine your Life path number: mine was 1. Then you determine the number of your name in a manner similar to calculating your Expression number. You assign a number to each letter based on the Pythagoras chart (the one I included in post two of the Numerology cycle). After that you compare the two numbers and see if they match. If they do, great you have found your magickal name, if not you can try alternative spellings (wytch vs witch) or possibly another form of the word (fire vs flame) to see if you can get the right number.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I went a step further than just matching my name's number to my Life Path number. I divided my name into three parts: my "first name" Phoenix, my "last name" Starfire, and my whole name Phoenix Starfire. I found the number for each part and then compared each one to the numbers in my Numerology chart.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Phoenix = 7+8+6+5+5+9+6 = 46 = 4+6 = 10 = 1+0 = 1</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Starfire = 1+2+1+9+6+9+9+5 = 42 = 4+2 = 6</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Phoenix Starfire = 1 + 6 = 7 (I took a shortcut hear by adding the already reduced numbers from above)</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Phoenix corresponds to my Life Path number. This is fitting since my Life Path number influences my attitude towards life as well as acting as a road map to how that life will play out. The name Phoenix was chosen for me based on roadblocks and speedbumps that I have had to overcome in my short life as well as for the outlook I have gained based on those conflicts. Instead of letting life overpower me and letting those obsticales become my funeral pyre, I chose to be like the mythical Phoenix and use destructive forces as a means of cleansing myself of negativity and rising above them with my head held high and a song on my lips.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Starfire corresponds with my Personality number. To me this is also fitting because my Personality number reveals the outward aspects of my personality, that which I can reveal to the world. Surrounded by Starfire, I show my personality to be one full of hope and balance as well as passion and creativity. I am a blazing comet, scorching the night sky. I am compassionate and confident. I stand as a symbol of protection and romance. I am both domestic and wild.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The combination of both names corresponds with my Sun number. Your Sun number acts as your anchor in the tumultuous sea that we call life. Just like how my Sun number is the starting point of my personality, a doorway which you must cross to uncover my true self, my magickal name is the starting point within my magickal journey. It is the culmination of both who I am and what I have experienced. It is the first impression other practitioners get upon meeting me. In it's whole form it only reveals some of me, you must cross that threshold and inspect the individual pieces to see all of who I am.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Finding one's magickal name should not be a simple process, it should be a spiritual journey of self-discovery. Don't take the shortcut and clump together some cute or magickal sounding words that you think sound good. Take the time to actually find a combination of words that touches your heart and your soul. Your magickal name should reflect who you are and what you have learned thus far in your life. You don't want to wake up in five to ten years and regret ever calling yourself Lady Fearietwinkle or Panther Strongclaw (that's ones not so bad actually). Plan on keeping your magickal name for a long time, possibly until to time you cross over the veil into the Summerland, I do.<br />
<br />
Yay! So that concludes my magickal names post. I know I got kinda serious and poetic in there a few times and I apologize if your not into all that but I really like this topic and I get carried away. Well I am done for the weekend 'cus we're leaving for the beach tomorrow. Yep!Yep! I promise to post again on Monday though. Maybe I'll finally do those Core numbers I've been promising (cue conspiratorial eyebrow wiggle.....I have no clue what that means). I don't know, we'll see what the Muses have in store for us on Monday.<br />
<br />
Bye Bye everyone and as always Blessed Be!<br />
<br />
P.S. Please, Please, Please start commenting! I really need the input. Luv you guys!</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-732243169594714751.post-81310346450969380132012-07-12T22:29:00.003-04:002013-05-20T12:25:45.677-04:00Numerology, Decoding Your Personality (Part 3)Hey guys, hope ya'll are doing great.<br />
<br />
Well I did promise that I would do numerology today, and I'm going to keep that promise. Today we're gonna talk about your Sun number.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><u>Sun Number</u></b></div>
Basically your Sun number is Numerology's equivalent of Astrology's Sun or Zodiac sign. It is based on the month and day you were born and describes your personality on a basic level. Often Sun numbers are described as the anchor of one's numerology chart. It is your starting point, your island in the vast sea that is your life. Your Sun number reveals how you approach changes and how they influence you.<br />
<br />
The Sun number was discovered by Master Numerologist Hans Decoz. The combination of our birth month and birth date is a very special number and it is used in many Numerology calculations. Before Hans Decoz, this important number had no name. He realized that looking at the Sun number level, we are better able to tune into our baseline personalities. Understanding your Sun number can help you understand why you make the choices you do as well as understanding why you experience certain feelings at different moments.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br /><br />
Your Sun number is one of the easiest numbers in your Numerology chart to calculate. It only takes two pieces of information to determine: the month and date that you were born. All you have to do is add the two numbers together and then reduce the sum to a single digit (you do not stop at Master Numbers in this calculation).<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><u>My Example</u></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
We will use my birthday as an example. I was born April 12th.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
April is the 4th month of the year, so we have a 4.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
It was the 12th day, so we have 12. You do not reduce this, only reduce after adding.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
So you add the two together: 4 + 12 = 16 = 1 + 6 = 7.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
So my Sun number is 7 (Easy, Peasy, Japanesey!).</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Having seven as my Sun number means that I am intuitive and philosophical. I never take anything at face value and I am always searching for a deeper meaning (in other words "I complicate the shit out of everything"). I am both and introvert and an extrovert, both sides fighting for dominance. I am a dreamer, but I'd rather dream of lofty goals than materialistic desires. I avoid being in a situation filled with superficial and hedonistic beings. I am opinionated to a fault and I tend to have a close circle of friends, with few or no casual acquaintances. I am extremely curious and scholarly (I definitely do read/research ALOT). I am very eccentric and there is little about me that could be described as conventional (Yes I am weird and I love the crap out of every minute). Though I am very logical, I embrace my emotions. I strive to be the best in any endeavor. I am more concerned with the spiritual and the intellectual aspects of life, as a result there is much to be desired when it comes to physical relationships. When I do fall, it begins as a platonic friendship but when the sparks fly, they really do fly :). I do not fall very often, but when it does it becomes all consuming. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Here is a link that talks about calculating your Sun number, yes I know I did it here but I am adding it because it has links to all 9 of the Sun number descriptions at the bottom of the page. That way ya'll can go and check out what your number means: <a href="http://www.numerology.com/about-numerology/sun-numbers">http://www.numerology.com/about-numerology/sun-numbers</a>.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I know this has been a much shorter post than what I normally do and I'm sorry about that. It's been a long day and I am really tired. Make sure to come back tomorrow and check out my next post for the Pagan Blog Project, it's gonna be about magickal names! I would also like to ask for ya'll to comment on the posts and tell me what ya'll like or don't like about the blog. If you don't want to post it publicly, I have added my email address to The Wicked Wytch page so ya'll are always welcome to email me.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Blessed Be!</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-732243169594714751.post-17107396165815518442012-07-11T23:00:00.000-04:002012-07-23T19:43:44.446-04:00Wicked Wytch Mashup<span style="font-family: inherit;">I hope ya'll are having an awesome week. I was having a pretty good one until today. I recently started a new job, been there about two weeks now. Well today I found out that I will not be getting paid for the hours I have already worked. Technically I am still in the "training" period so that I can learn all the procedures, but this training is unpaid and I won't get put on payroll until after my training ends. The kicker is the fact that there is not set length for the training period, it's kinda a play by the ear thing, so I currently have no clue when I will actually start getting paid for working. YIPEE!!! Well enough about me, let's go ahead and jump into today's topic.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I know ya'll are expecting me to talk about the last two Core numbers in numerology, and I was so planning on doing that today. However, I was worried that I would bore ya'll by repeating the same/similar topic each day and besides, pushing that post back gives me a carrot to dangle to keep ya'll coming back :). So instead of numerology, I'm going to use the latest prompt from Pagan Blog Prompts (there is a button on the right hand sidebar if ya'll want to go check out this blog)/ So her it goes...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">"Religion, Faith, and Beliefs...while these three words are often used interchangeably, they are not the same. What do they mean to you?"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I really like this topic because I have strong opinions on religion and faith. I personally do not like the institution of religion and I usually respond to questions about my religion with the statement that I "am spiritual, but not religious." Before I actually get to my dissection of that phrase I'd like to discuss the official definition of each word versus my own interpretations.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"></span><br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><u><span style="font-family: inherit;">Belief</span></u></b></div>
</div>
<div>
<br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">An acceptance that a statement is true or that something exists</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Something one accepts as true or real; a firmly held opinion or conviction</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">To me beliefs are those ideas and opinions that we personally belief are true. In my opinion, beliefs are specific and unique to each individual and no two people can hold the same collection of beliefs. Also our beliefs are not stagnant, rather they evolve as we change and grow. The beliefs we have when we are children are not always the same beliefs we have as adults.</span></div>
</div>
</div>
<br />
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<u><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Faith</span></b></u></div>
</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>Complete trust or confidence in someone or something</li>
<li>Strong belief in God or in the doctrines of a religion, based on spiritual apprehension rather than proof</li>
</ul>
<div>
<br />
Faith to me is a word that holds a myriad of meanings. My personal definition not only includes the faith in a divine presence, but also includes faith in my family and in myself. Some people see faith as a blind trust in something that cannot be seen or proven, and faith is therefore a waste of ones energy. I however believe that faith and trust (and a little pixie dust) is what keeps one sane. Without faith, we would all be cynical and our lives would have less meaning.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><u>Religion</u></b></div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>The belief and worship of a superhuman controlling power, esp. a personal God or gods</li>
<li>Details of belief as taught or discussed</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div>
<br />
Now for the main event. Like I said earlier, I do not like the concept of religion. On paper it sounds really good: the belief in the divine. However, the true implications of religion are never included in the write-ups. Religion to me is a prison where dogma and tradition are used to control and dominate those who choose to enter into its domain. Religions are bureaucracies that are usually patriarchal and underhandedly (and often more publicly) scorn the role of women through scripture and dogma. They also lead to an alienation from the divine in the general community through their teaching that only chosen individuals within the religion can truly understand the will of their deity. The main problem I have with religions is their incessant need to denounce any form of worship that does not adhere to their personal dogma.<br />
<br />
I guess I don't believe in the institution of a religion because of my definitions of belief and faith. Beliefs are individual and personal, religions are uniform and their teachings dictated by those in power. Faith is based on trust and ones personal beliefs, religions are based on dominance, scare-tactics, and founded on the ideals of others long passed.<br />
<br />
This is why I say that I am spiritual rather than religious. Refusing to label myself as a member of any particular religion means that I am free of any dogma that will be attached to that label, and it is a mistake to believe that you can dedicate yourself to any organization or group without having to combat dogma. I am free to believe and worship as I will without having to worry about wading through all the red tape that comes with religion.<br />
<br />
Well it is time for me to call it a night. I hope you liked the change of pace for today. I promise I will get back to numerology tomorrow, I have to or I won't be able to do my post for Friday. However, I will go ahead and let you know that I won't be talking about the last two Core numbers. Like I said, I have to set up my post on Friday and there is another number besides those two that I need to talk about before I can post Friday. So the Core numbers are going to take a backseat for now, but I promise: I will get to them soon!<br />
<br />
Blessed Be Everyone!!</div>
</div>
</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-732243169594714751.post-80572240367420653662012-07-10T22:43:00.001-04:002013-05-20T12:26:04.462-04:00Numerology, Decoding Your Personality (Part 2)Ok so last time we talked a little about the history of numerology as well as some detailed information on the
Life Path number. Today we are going to discuss the Expression number as well as the Personality number.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><u>Expression Number</u></b></div>
<div>
The Expression number, also called the Destiny number, is concerned with your natural strengths and weakness that are given to you and influenced by the time your were born. This number is considered the foundation on which your Life Path rests. It is based on the letters of your full birth name (the one on your birth certificate), because your name represents the your personal history and heritage up to the moment of birth and this history shaped who you are. What we are named is no accident, our parents use intuition as a guiding force in choosing those names. I am a good example of this. My parents had two options for my name, my mom was set on one and my dad on the other. Eventually they chose the one that combined the names of my grandmothers. See, it could have gone either way, but there was a reason why they chose the one over the other, and I for one have not regretted their decision.</div>
<div>
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br /></div>
<div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBaotg6PR5AOuEjbZFrHxHG9nBUBtxmtzYMPzG51cmPG6MjnNWfpRtDLF8v1gm69mui7bNKJ1q7YACSXBTZCVA2scR4pYYpS6GKORclUxFUuUX313Lztw-mD5T7sdtrwpL6Zo6BSFtsGK-/s1600/pythagorean-chart-300x175.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBaotg6PR5AOuEjbZFrHxHG9nBUBtxmtzYMPzG51cmPG6MjnNWfpRtDLF8v1gm69mui7bNKJ1q7YACSXBTZCVA2scR4pYYpS6GKORclUxFUuUX313Lztw-mD5T7sdtrwpL6Zo6BSFtsGK-/s1600/pythagorean-chart-300x175.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pythagoras chart</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Your Expression number is calculated by assigning a number to each letter in your full birth name (first, middle, and last). The number for each letter is determined by the chart to the left. The chart was created by Pythagoras and the number for each letter is determined by reducing that letter's position in the alphabet to a single digit. For example A is 1 because it is the first letter, but J is also 1 because it is the 10th letter and 1+0=1 and S is the 19th which reduces to 10 and again to one.<br />
<br />
Next add the numbers of your first name and reduce to a single digit or a Master number (remember Master numbers are 11, 22, or 33). Do the same for your middle and last. Lastly all three numbers together and reduce to a single digit or master number.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<u>General Example</u></div>
So if your name was Emily Lynn Johnson (no that is not my name) your Expression number would be 8.<br />
<br />
Emily = 5+4+9+3+7 = 28 = 2+8 = 10 =1+0 = 1<br />
<br />
Lynn = 3+7+5+5 = 20 = 2+0 = 2<br />
<br />
Johnson = 1+6+8+5+1+6+5 = 32 = 3+2 = 5<br />
<br />
1+2+5 = 8<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><u>My Example</u></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
My personal Expression number is 5. Having this Expression number means that I am a free spirit who loves change, adventure, and excitement. Freedom is a need for me and is required for me to be successful. I will try anything at least once which leaves me vulnerable for unhealthy addictions and indulgences. I am often unorganized, whether it be my thoughts or actions. However, I have a gift in communication. I have a youthful enthusiasm that can be infectious and attractive as well as annoying. I fall in and out of love frequently and I avoid shallow feelings and relationships. I tend to be self-disciplined and set myself healthy limits.<br />
<br />
Unlike your Life Path number which details the person you ARE, your Expression number outlines who you CAN be. It is a guideline that, when followed, will lead you to the person you WANT to be.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><u>Personality Number</u></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Your Personality number describes the first impression that people get when meeting you. It represents the traits that you are most willing to reveal to strangers. This number acts as a censoring device, in terms of what you reveal to people as well as those people and situations that you interact with. This number is derived in a similar manner to your Expression number. However, instead of using ones full name, one only uses the consonants within that name. Vowels reveal the tender side of our personalities, traits like compassion and empathy. Consonants represent the characteristics that shield our vulnerabilities. Therefore our outer personality, the one that is represented by our Personality number, is best derived by using consonants exclusively.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><u>General Example</u></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Therefore, using the example from before, we would only use ML + LNN + JHNSN.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
ML = 4+3 = 7</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
LNN = 3+5+5 = 13 = 1+3 = 4</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
JHNSN = 1+8+5+1+5 = 20 = 2+0 =2</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
7+4+2 = 13 = 1+3 = 4.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
(Here is a <a href="http://www.decoz.com/Y_vowel-consonant.htm">link</a> to a page outlining how you can determine whether the Y in your name should be counted as a vowel or a consonant)</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<u>My Example</u></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I have a Personality number of 6. This means that I reveal myself to be understanding and compassionate. People generally sense that I am warm and fair. I tend to attract people who are in need of comfort and support. I inspire confidence and I am a figure that people feel comfortable enough to unload their burden to. I strive to uphold justice and harmony and will sacrifice personal desires for the good of others. However, I can sometimes assume the mantel of the martyr. I am always an guard of being taken advantage of due to my tendency to misjudge an individuals character. I tend to see the best in others and overlook the bad. I am domestic therefore I love children and will make a good parent. I am a romantic, faithful, and protective. I am artistic and I love music and gardens as well as having a knack for interior design. I am more concerned with my personality than my appearance and I am more likely to choose an outfit for its comfort and utility than its statement. I am generous and sometimes not very logical about finances. I am vulnerable to both praise and criticism and I am likely to worry, which causes health problems.<br />
<br />
OK, so there are two more of the Core numbers of numerology. Hopefully I will be able to post the final two tomorrow. Remember to come back Friday to see how I link all of this into to topic of magickal names.</div>
</div>
</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-732243169594714751.post-83274972531698161882012-07-07T15:12:00.000-04:002012-07-22T16:32:14.341-04:00Comments Please!Hey everyone,<br />
<br />
I just wanted to thank all of you for viewing my blog. I know that it is very small and shabby right now but I am working on that. I wanted to ask ya'll to please comment on things that you like, that you don't like, and just general ideas for the blog. I want to turn this into a really good blog and the only way I can do that is to know what you guys want to see. So I am open to any and all comments and suggestions, just post it directly to the blog or shoot me an email (my email address is listed on the Wicked Wytch page).<br />
<br />
Again thanks for the views,<br />
Phoenix StarfireUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-732243169594714751.post-60868131778258596632012-07-07T15:05:00.001-04:002012-07-23T19:44:33.108-04:00Numerology, Decoding Your Personality (Part 1)Since today's post is for the Pagan Blog Project 2012, the topic is a N word. This is actually going to be a multiple part blog involving numerology and magickal names. To start off lets get a little 411 on Numerology 101 (yes pun is intended).<br />
<br />
<div>
Numerology is the study of how numbers can be used to predict the future or gain knowledge about ones personality and attributes. Numbers have been used to gain divine wisdom since ancient times and evidence of numerology can be seen in many civilizations including the Chinese, Greek, Egyptians, and Mayans. The Mayan calender that predicts the end of the world this December employs the use of numerology (I am neither promoting or discounting the authenticity of their prophecy).</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
What is widely used today is the Greek system created by the mathematician Pythagoras. He combined the disciplines of the Arabic, Druid, Phoenician, Egyptian, and Essene sciences to create something new. It did not stop there though, it has continued to grow and evolve over the centuries and is still growing today. Numerology has become more widespread today than it has ever been.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Though numerology declares ALL numbers significant, there are five numbers that are considered the Core numbers of numerology. These numbers define you and have great insight into who you are. These numbers are your Life Path number, your Expression number, your Heart's Desire number, your Birth Day number, and your Personality number. Each one uses your personal birth name and/or birth date, therefore they are rooted in the person you are.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><u>Life Path Number</u></b></div>
<div>
We will start with the Life Path number because it is the most important number in your Numerology chart. Your Life Path is a road map to how your life will play out and it will influence the challenges that you face along the way. It also influences your general character and attitude towards life. The reason the Life Path is so important is because it uses your entire birth date and never changes.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
To calculate your Life Path number you must reduce each unit of your birth date (month/day/year) to a single-digit or Master number (Master numbers are 11, 22, and 33). Then add each of the resulting numbers together and reduce the total again to either a single-digit or Master number. I'll do mine as an example: April 12, 1992.</div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
April is the 4th month, so we have a 4.<br />
<br />
It was the 12th day of the month and 1 + 2 = 3, so now we have a 3.<br />
<br />
The year was 1992 and 1 + 9 + 9 + 2 = 21 and 2 + 1 = 3, so now we have another 3.<br />
<br />
Now you add them all together: 4 + 3 + 3 = 10 = 1 + 0 = 1<br />
<br />
So my Life Path number is 1</div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
One thing to remember about numerology is that the numbers are not the only important part, the method of getting the numbers is also important. The reason why you have to get your Life Path number by first adding and reducing each section of your birth day is because each part represent other sections of your numerology chart: your Period cycles. Your Period cycles (this has nothing to do with menstruation) are three long term cycles that divide your life into thirds. The first is derived from the reduced number of your birth month (4), the second from your birth date (3), and the last from your birth year (3). This is what makes your Life Path number so important: it is found by combining the numbers of your three Period cycles.<br />
<br />
Once you know your Life Path number you can use it to learn about yourself and make important decisions about your life from your major in college to whether you and your partner will be compatible.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<b><u>My Example</u></b><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
Having 1 has my Life Path number suggests that I have the skills to be a leader and that I demand independence and personal attainment. i am also capable of creative inspiration and great determination and ambition. i am also a great project started and I am at my best when challenged. I have a natural tendency to lead and I generally take charge even when not appropriate. I am highly original and have the talents of an innovator/inventor. i have a strong personality and I feel it is necessary to folow my own convictions regardless of consequences. Routine tasks bore and tire me quickly. I can be self-centered and demanding, though I tend to hide it in social settings. Regardless I may be considered friendly and good-natured. I am sensitive to disapproval and tend to not take criticism lightly. Though I show great potential for leadership, I may fail as a follower. Due to my strong personality, I should avoid being to bossy or </div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Ok so this is only the first part of my numerology, so keep checking in to get information of the other four Core numbers and check back next Friday to seek how I add in magickal names.<br />
<br />
Blessed Be!</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1