tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-56823681460344772122024-03-12T23:21:53.243-04:00Pulstar's WhispersAutumnPulstarhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17184460745882096042noreply@blogger.comBlogger16125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682368146034477212.post-47590319384340285512013-03-02T11:42:00.001-05:002013-03-02T11:43:53.712-05:00Celebrating Easter...And All The Rest<br />
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Easter is coming up in 4 weeks in case you have been oblivious to the Peeps in the stores (along with Cadbury eggs, pastel colors and plastic grass). Along with it are some amazing pagan workshops and festivals, including one local workshop that I would love to take on the Iron Pentacle. But I won't. It's Easter weekend, and my place is at home with the rest of my non-pagan family.</div>
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Nor will I partake in any Imbolc celebration that takes place the first Sunday of February (unless it's a sunrise ritual...I have made that exception in the past). It's Superbowl Sunday and I hate to break it to you, but there ARE Pagans that actually like football.</div>
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Got a St. Patrick's Day pagan book club/discussion group meeting? Nope, I will be eating corned beef and cabbage...or at least drinking beer and "honoring" my Irish roots. My soul tells me that St. Brighid and St. Patrick were best buds anyway, and I raise a glass in honor of Brighid being able to excel on both sides of the fence. Why? Because it's so gosh darn hard to do that, and the most flak comes from the Pagan community. Don't even get me started on Christmas.</div>
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For a group that begs for acceptance, sometimes they are the least sensitive to those of us who live our lives in a non-pagan family. Every month my family makes itself scarce so my coven can hold full moon ritual at my home. My pagan study group meets here most of the time and Sabbats end up being held here too. Again, they not only stay out of my way, but clean the house beforehand. I could say that being with them for Easter is the least I could do, but you know what? I WANT to spend Easter with them. I want to color Easter eggs with my granddaughter (on Holy Saturday as was traditional when I was growing up, and not for Ostara) and I'd love to cook a ham and have a wonderful family Easter dinner. </div>
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I understand that sometimes these pagan events are specifically planned around these dates so that pagans have something to do - which is great. But when I decline to attend, please don't give me a dirty look, or make some disparaging remark. I can't wait for the day when a pagan simply says "We will miss you, but have a wonderful Easter with your family" and mean it.</div>
AutumnPulstarhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17184460745882096042noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682368146034477212.post-27782369846897920442013-02-22T16:34:00.003-05:002013-02-22T16:35:24.781-05:00<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";">Spiritual Doldrums</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";"><s><u><o:p></o:p></u></s></span> </div>
<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";">Remember when you first took those
steps along the pagan path?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How new and
fresh and exciting everything was.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
smell of the incense.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The burning of the
flame.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The chants and the drumming.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You were passionate about putting words to
paper for that special spell or ritual.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>What a great time!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";">Now, maybe not so much.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Doldrums is a word that comes from an area of
the ocean near the equator where the wind is so light that boats can be trapped
for weeks waiting for the wind to return.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We usually use the word to refer to a mental slump, depression,
inactivity, or state of restlessness or unhappiness. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";">The doldrums can apply to our
spiritual practice as well.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We feel nothing
inspiring about the ritual and find excuses to miss that full moon
gathering.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The drum gathers dust in the
corner.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We feel so caught up in the
everyday tasks of our lives, that we feel we are better served during our time
alone by playing solitaire on the computer instead of meditating or doing
yoga.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";">When we find our spiritual practice
has become stagnant, we need to find ways to change it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Here are some ideas:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";"><o:p></o:p></span> </div>
<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Verdana; mso-fareast-font-family: Verdana;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1)<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Find what interests you now.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You may be an expert on herbs – is there
something else you would like to learn about?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Crystals?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Chakras?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Explore other topics.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<div style="background: white; margin: 8.4pt 0in 8.4pt 0.5in; mso-line-height-alt: 11.35pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Verdana; mso-fareast-font-family: Verdana;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2)<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";">Practice your kitchen witchery.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Cook.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Make a dish that reflects the season or a special treat for the full
moon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There’s nothing like appreciative
comments such as “This is so yummy!” to help raise one’s spirits.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div style="background: white; margin: 8.4pt 0in 8.4pt 0.5in; mso-line-height-alt: 11.35pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Verdana; mso-fareast-font-family: Verdana;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3)<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";">Talk to other pagans.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Especially important if you are a solitary practitioner.
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Join a discussion group or book
club.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Attend a public ritual or a pagan
festival.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No pagan is an island.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div style="background: white; margin: 8.4pt 0in 8.4pt 0.5in; mso-line-height-alt: 11.35pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Verdana; mso-fareast-font-family: Verdana;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">4)<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";">Get acquainted with another deity.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That doesn’t mean you have to dedicate
yourself to another God or Goddess, but studying the mythology and holding
ritual for another can be enlightening and open up some interesting
possibilities.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div style="background: white; margin: 8.4pt 0in 8.4pt 0.5in; mso-line-height-alt: 11.35pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Verdana; mso-fareast-font-family: Verdana;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">5)<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";">Be creative.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Write a song, a poem, a chant.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you write three pages in your journal
every day, how about changing it up a bit and do some visual journaling
instead?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Put together a spiritual
scrapbook or photo album.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div style="background: white; margin: 8.4pt 0in 8.4pt 0.5in; mso-line-height-alt: 11.35pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Verdana; mso-fareast-font-family: Verdana;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">6)<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";">Declutter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do a major cleaning of your home, organize
and perhaps redecorate.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Get rid of the
candle stubs and that box of incense that makes you sneeze.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As you clean your altar, change it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div style="background: white; margin: 8.4pt 0in 8.4pt 0.5in; mso-line-height-alt: 11.35pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Verdana; mso-fareast-font-family: Verdana;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">7)<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";">Adopt a park, a highway, a
stream.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Commit to doing something for
the environment.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div style="background: white; margin: 8.4pt 0in 8.4pt 0.5in; mso-line-height-alt: 11.35pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Verdana; mso-fareast-font-family: Verdana;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">8)<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";">Instead of holding a full moon
ritual, celebrate the new moon, dark moon, first quarter, the sunrise…anything
that will change it up.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div style="background: white; margin: 8.4pt 0in 8.4pt 0.5in; mso-line-height-alt: 11.35pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Verdana; mso-fareast-font-family: Verdana;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">9)<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";">Create an outdoor shrine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It can be as simple as a stone circle or more
elaborate with wind chimes, shells, herbs, flowers, and statuary.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Just like your indoor altar, make sure you tend
to it often.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Verdana; mso-fareast-font-family: Verdana;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">10)<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif";">Play
with the elements.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Fly a kite, make s’mores
by the campfire, go water skiing or rock climbing. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
AutumnPulstarhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17184460745882096042noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682368146034477212.post-71521805891880110732013-02-16T12:05:00.000-05:002013-02-16T12:17:27.154-05:00<br />
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<span class="line"><i><span style="border: 1pt windowtext; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; padding: 0in;">Sweet dreams are made of this</span><span id="line_2" style="background-attachment: scroll; background-repeat: repeat repeat;">, Who am I to
disagree<o:p></o:p></span></i></span></div>
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<span class="line"><i><span style="border: 1pt windowtext; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; padding: 0in;">I travel the world and the seven seas, Everybody’s looking for
something<o:p></o:p></span></i></span></div>
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<span class="line"><i><span style="border: 1pt windowtext; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; padding: 0in;"> </span></i></span><span class="line"><b><span style="border: 1pt windowtext; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; padding: 0in;">EURYTHMICS<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></div>
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<span class="line"><span style="border: 1pt windowtext; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; padding: 0in;">Dreams are a great tool to use
to connect with your subconscious, other realms and deity. However, the messages are rarely clear cut,
and it’s often difficult to discern if it’s truly a message or simply that over
spiced taco you had for dinner. Then
there are those of us (me included) who rarely remember dreams at all. It can be very disheartening to listen to
tales from others who have dreams that occurred over several nights and are
recalling them in detail.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="line"><span style="border: 1pt windowtext; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; padding: 0in;">Keep a dream journal
anyway. Even if upon wakening you can
only recall a person, a color, a location, jot it down. What you remember is usually the key…the one
clue you need to decipher the message.
If ever you wake and find you clearly remember the dream, you will be so
glad you have that paper and pen on your nightstand to scribble away. I have found over the years that if I recall a
dream, I better pay close attention. For
me, a remembered dream had better be remembered.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="line"><span style="border: 1pt windowtext; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; padding: 0in;">There are also hundreds of
books that you can use for a reference as to what various objects mean. Use these books lastly, if at all. YOU are the key as to what the objects that
appear in your dream mean. Trust your
instincts. For example, often you will
read that if you dream of flying in an airplane it signifies travel…either
physically or you are reaching a higher level of knowledge or spirit. If however you are scared to death of flying,
or someone close died in an airplane crash, there is certainly something else
going on. What that object means to YOU
should always be the first question. If
you are stumped, then check with other sources and see if it resonates. Jot it down in your dream journal and see if
a pattern develops. Alone, that one
symbol may not make any sense, but in a bigger context it just may.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="line"><span style="border: 1pt windowtext; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; padding: 0in;">Don’t ever think of yourself as
a “lesser” witch if you simply don’t remember your dreams. Everyone dreams, whether they can recall them
upon wakening or not. The messages are
still getting through to your subconscious.
As I first said, dreams are a tool, but only one of many.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
AutumnPulstarhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17184460745882096042noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682368146034477212.post-25328564940059311932013-02-08T15:10:00.000-05:002013-02-08T15:10:20.993-05:00<br />
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The circle is open but unbroken</div>
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May the love of the Goddess be ever in our hearts</div>
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Merry Meet, and Merry Part, and Merry Meet Again.</div>
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Almost every Pagan ritual ends with these works…either
spoken or sung. Most of it is pretty
straight forward. Who wouldn’t want the
love of the Goddess…or peace, or joy depending on your own tradition…in one’s
heart. And yes, let’s wish each other
well until we meet again. It’s an
endearing little chant but the meat of these words, the part that has the most
meaning and shouldn’t be spoken so lightly is that very first line.</div>
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The circle is open but unbroken.</div>
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What does that mean to you?
For most it’s the fact that you can now move freely around the space but
the bonds that have been formed are still intact. I would add that what is spoken in sacred
space is treated confidentially. That
your circle mates are treated with respect and compassion…no matter where you
are. Circle space is a magickal place - keep that magick alive even after the release
of Deity and the Elements. </div>
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Most likely you entered the circle in perfect love and
perfect trust. In doing so, you have a
created a safe environment within the circle.
You have shared with those also in attendance, a very special and
hopefully meaningful ritual. You may
literally have bared your soul in sacred space.
When the ritual ends, that love and trust doesn’t dissolve. You said it yourself…the circle is
unbroken. That connection is the very
reason why some folks will not enter the circle with strangers. Do not enter a circle lightly, and remember
your commitment after the circle is open.</div>
AutumnPulstarhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17184460745882096042noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682368146034477212.post-18904782257236191892013-02-01T14:49:00.002-05:002013-02-01T15:11:24.938-05:00<br />
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<span style="background: white; color: #676767; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Candle Magick<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<i><span style="background: white; color: #676767; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">“You didn't know that rock-n-roll burned</span></i><i><span style="color: #676767; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br />
<span style="background: white;">So you bought a
candle and you lived and you learned….”<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
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<b><span style="background: white; color: #676767; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> Once
Bitten Twice Shy – Great White<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="background: white; color: #676767; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Substitute “rock-n-roll”
with “witchcraft” and you have set the scene for my entry into spell crafting. That’s how I started…with one simple candle
(black or white depending on what I was doing) and an intention. I quickly added incense – I found it helped. But that was it. For years.
One candle, a match, a cone of incense and an incense burner. It would be nice to say that all my spells
turned out exactly as I had planned, but everyone who practices would laugh
hysterically, or give me that look and say “yeah, right.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: white; color: #676767; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">I lived and I learned.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: white; color: #676767; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">But candles are still my
favorite tool. As we celebrate Imbolc I
figured I’d use this opportunity to go over the finer points of candle magick –
everything you can do to improve the chances of the spell going exactly as
planned helps. There really is a bit
more to it than just a candle, and a way to light it. Consider - <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: white; color: #676767; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Timing – the hour of the
day, the day of the week, where we are in the lunar cycle and the season of the
year are all important. Some days are
energetically better than others for specific goals, so consult sources and
pick the proper time to cast the spell.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: white; color: #676767; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Prepare yourself – Ritual bath
or shower, putting on your ritual clothing (or taking off everyday clothes) or
jewelry gets you in the proper mindset.
And please be absolutely clear about what it is you are trying to
accomplish. Be as specific as possible
so there can be no misunderstandings. Write
it down and read it several times.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: white; color: #676767; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The Candle – It is easy to
buy a candle, but have you given thought to making your own? It’s a great craft to do at Imbolc, and a handmade
candle will be much more energetically charged.
Pressed for time? You can always
take a sheet of beeswax and roll it around a wick while thinking/speaking your
intention as you roll. Wax and the wicks can be purchased from local
craft stores or on line. Dipped…rolled…poured
into a mold or jar…the choices are endless.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: white; color: #676767; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Color – Consider the color
of the candle you will use. I began by
using just white or black, but there are other options. You can easily find color associations in
various sources and use that as a guide.
For example, green is often used to represent money/wealth, so if you are
trying to acquire more money, green would be a good choice. I always warn folks though to never use a
color you dislike in a spell to gain something.
If you hate green, you might want to use a gold candle. OR rework your spell that the main focus is
to banish debt. If you are making your own colored candles,
use powered color or natural dyes. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: white; color: #676767; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Prepare the Candle –
Inscribe the candle with symbols that represent your intention…engraving from
the wick end to the base so the candles burns in the correct direction. Then anoint the candle with oil that also
represents the candle’s purpose. For
example, if you are anointing a candle for love, you may wish to use an oil with
rose. If you’re not quite sure what to
use, a really good virgin olive oil will work too. Annoint the candle with the oil beginning at
the center of the candle and working your way out towards each end. Keep concentrating while you are working on
your intention. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: white; color: #676767; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">You’ve got all you
need. Cast your circle and work your
spell.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: white; color: #676767; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Have a very Blessed
Imbolc.</span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />AutumnPulstarhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17184460745882096042noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682368146034477212.post-28037267409241279402013-01-26T15:58:00.000-05:002013-01-26T15:58:25.231-05:00<br />
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Beltane Ramblings</div>
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For my next Blog, I wanted to write a piece on Beltane. Ah.
Beltane. Arguably the second
biggest festival of the Pagan year…and yet one of the few that really has no
counter celebration in the mundane world.
(Even Imbolc has Groundhog Day…only Lughnasadh is as covert as
Beltane.) Imagine collecting spring
flowers and putting them in small baskets to deliver to all your neighbors, or
weaving them into wreaths to wear on your head.
Picture young, unmarried men going into the forest and returning with a
tree that would be turned into the maypole.
Young folks dancing around that pole…with those colorful ribbons winding
around and around. Tables set with a
feast and the laughter and dancing and music.</div>
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<br /></div>
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So why was it so difficult to write about this Sabbat? Beltane is a fertility holiday, but unlike
many other holiday and rituals that clearly mark fertility in agricultural
terms, Beltane is often THE Sabbat for sex.
If you’ve been around Paganism long enough, you have certainly heard the
stories of old of young couples disappearing into the woods on May Eve only to
return the following morning wearing flowers…and apparently big smiles. </div>
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Could it be that for those of us who are clearly on the
other side of youth, Beltane seems to rarely live up to its potential. Let me honest here. I don’t care how many articles I read that
the fertility of Beltane can apply to any creative project…it’s just not the
same. Beltane = sex. It’s the Pagan equivalent of New Year’s
Eve. Goddess forbid you don’t have a
date…you’ll be stuck at home watching Ryan Seacrest in your PJs with a bowl of
chocolate ice cream – only in May it’s on American Idol instead of at Times
Square.</div>
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Work schedules and weekday commitments usually push public ritual
and private group celebrations to the weekend…leaving May Eve to my husband and
I. I absolutely despise “scheduled sex”. I am much more the spontaneous type, and as
a woman who reached menopause over 10 years ago, those moments of spontaneity
are less and less frequent. After
arriving home from a long work day, we’re both tired. So we have changed our own Beltane custom to
one of romance. Soft music, candlelight, great food, a bottle
of wine…either out at a restaurant or in our own living room helps set the
stage for a night that is about us. We concentrate on the partnership aspect of
Beltane. Those wild nights of youth may
just be a pleasant memory now, but we have each other and we can cuddle in each
other’s arms, just enjoying the moment.</div>
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Unless of course, he whips out that leather Green Man mask….I
said I was older, not dead.</div>
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What are your suggestions for celebrating Beltane for those
of us who are on the other side of the hill…or for those of us who are currently
not in a relationship?</div>
AutumnPulstarhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17184460745882096042noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682368146034477212.post-55846527251215126532013-01-18T01:00:00.000-05:002013-01-18T07:41:45.955-05:00BESOM<br />
<br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">How many of you actually own a besom?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Or must admit that it is the last ritual tool
you either bought or made?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">A besom is a broom made of a bundle of twigs
tied to a handle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The brush part of the
besom is usually round instead of flat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The bristles can be made of straw, herbs or twigs, and folks have used
various woods for the handle.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Besoms are used mainly to sweep out negativity
from a space…be it the ritual circle or your home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Many also believe that if you keep your besom
by your hearth, it will help in preventing negativity from entering in the
first place.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is often used in
handfasting ceremonies, with the couple jumping over the besom during the
ritual.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Despite these uses, I have found that often
folks just aren’t fond of the besom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It
could be that it’s reputation with witches in a negative sense makes folks
cautious in obtaining one.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They can’t
get over the picture of ugly crones (or the Wicked Witch of the West) flying
around on a broomstick…or are loathe to endure snide comments from non-pagan
friends when they see the besom next to the fireplace.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve experienced those comments first
hand:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do you actually ride that
thing?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I knew you were a witch – there’s
the broomstick!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Followed by
chuckles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is such a stereotypical
symbol that some shy away from it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They don’t
want to be a caricature of their spiritual beliefs.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">On the other hand, why not?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is thought that since the besom was an
everyday household object back in the Middle Ages, it was an important tool used
in witchcraft because it wouldn’t raise suspicion.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I like the idea of embracing our roots…of
honoring those who have walked this path before.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>An item can only demean your beliefs if you
allow it too.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This year embrace one of
the oldest ritual tools and acquire a besom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>You can find instructions on making one on the web…or purchase one you
love at a county or Renaissance Faire.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Display
it proudly and use it often.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Come up
with answers to all those questions…answers that you can give with a wink and a
mischievous smile.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s great to keep
them guessing.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
AutumnPulstarhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17184460745882096042noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682368146034477212.post-33027246170223526452013-01-11T01:00:00.000-05:002013-01-11T11:57:34.254-05:00<br />
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Arianrhod</div>
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Have you ever been aware of the presence of a Goddess, but
not quite sure who that Goddess was? So
was my relationship with Arianrhod in my teens…weaving my fate on her silver
wheel and watching…yes, always watching (and usually shaking her head in dismay)
as I often faltered along my spiritual path.</div>
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Arianrhod is a take no prisoners no nonsense goddess in my
experience. I was aware of her presence,
but had no name for that figure with those eyes that could cut through all the
BS. I worked closely with Brighid back
then…Brighid was patient. Brighid was
motherly. Brighid would answer my
questions with a smile. But this
one! She made me nervous. Observing from the corner, her quick fingers
working with the thread on that beautiful wheel, I would catch her asking
Brighid if I were ready yet. The answer
was always no.</div>
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I abandoned the Goddess path for many years once I reached
college. It wasn’t until I was in my
late 30’s that I heard the call of the Goddess once more. I recall that Imbolc ritual back in the 90’s
when I went to dedicate myself to Brighid again…and she was stern, making
it quite clear that there was no room for doubts. Be a Priestess, or don’t be. There is no middle ground. I assured Brighid that I was in…present…ready
for wherever she led me. And poof…almost
like a magician act…Brighid was gone and there stood Arianrhod.</div>
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This Goddess had a job for me and we started down a very
bumpy highway to get the task done. I
held a ritual dedicating myself to Arianrhod, and many of my friends still
claim it was one of the most powerful rituals they have ever experienced. Years later, her plan was completed and I
knew my reason for working with Arianrhod was finished. We were done…and since she was finished with
me, I expected her to fade away into the cosmos. But that hasn’t happened. She’s still with me, though I only feel her
presence in times of trouble - her silver beacon like a warning light. I take heed.
She has embraced me as her child and watches over me. Reward for a job well done? Where once her ever watching eyes unnerved
me, I am now comforted that she is still there in the distance. Weaving and watching. Weaving and watching. Though her task may have ended, I am still an
unfinished project. Pick up the next
piece of thread and spin that web and let’s see where the Goddess takes me.</div>
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AutumnPulstarhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17184460745882096042noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682368146034477212.post-32837986373053291472013-01-04T01:00:00.001-05:002013-01-04T09:03:38.964-05:00<br />
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Altars</div>
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I have read enough books
that specify exactly how an altar should be set up…put the Goddess candle here,
the chalice there…that I wonder how the authors miss the point. An altar is a personal expression of the
things that are most important to you at this moment, and placement of objects
on the altar should be guided by your creativity and imagination. If it energetically feels right, then it
is. Think outside the box!<o:p></o:p></div>
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An altar may be large or
small – you are only limited by the space you have. A side table, a windowsill, a mantle, a shelf
on a bookcase or outside on the porch or in the garden – all work for an
altar. Before you begin, think about
what you are trying to achieve by setting up an altar. If you will be meditating at the altar, you
will need to create it in a quiet place where you will not be disturbed. If you are going to leave candles burning on
the altar, you will want to select a space away from pets and small children –
as well as curtains and other flammable objects. You may wish though to place a seasonal altar
or one of remembrance in a prominent place in your home so that family and
friends can see it often. Be sure it
blends well with the rest of the room…you want it to stand out in a good way!<o:p></o:p></div>
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Just about anything can be
put on an altar…as long as it has meaning and is relevant to your goal. Candles, statues, pictures, crystals, stones,
artwork, incense, essential oils, small bowls or boxes, flowers or plants, shells,
money, water and salt – all work beautifully.
You may also wish to keep paper and pen on the altar so that you can
write things down after meditation for future reference. But be sure to keep it simple…too many items
and it will just look cluttered. Watch
the colors you use on your altar – as in chose colors that you like and are
relevant to you. If you are creating a
spring altar, and you hate yellow, don’t use it! Other pastel colors will work just fine. Be sure to keep the altar clean and well
tended. An altar left to stagnate is of
no use.<o:p></o:p></div>
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When you have achieved your
goal, the season changes, or the altar just doesn’t “feel right” anymore, then
it is time to make adjustments. Be
sure to remove everything off the altar, clean the surface as well as all the
items you are removing…both physically and energetically, and begin anew. <o:p></o:p></div>
AutumnPulstarhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17184460745882096042noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682368146034477212.post-14783353497178264932012-06-01T10:54:00.001-04:002012-06-01T10:57:01.973-04:00Favorite Books<br />
<br />
I have found that I am often asked what are my favorite books on Paganism or Witchcraft. I guess having been a Pagan for so long, folks figure I have read quite a bit, and may actually have some good advice. I have to admit I sometimes feel this is a loaded question. Some books I have enjoyed would probably get me "run out of town" and some classics don't make the cut in my opinion. So here is my list of five of my favorite authors and their books that I love. These are NOT necessarily books I would put on a "must read list" if you were to ask what books I would suggest to someone who was just beginning to study. These are simply the books that have spoken to me - the books that make me smile - the books that I thumb through time and time again when looking for inspiration. <br />
<br />
1. Sybil Leek: Diary of a Witch. Published in 1969, I think I read it that year - and if not, certainly in 1970. It's the book that changed my entire life. It gave a name to what I was experiencing all along, and a direction to take it to the next level. Though I think I read it at least 10 times throughout the 70's, I've not read it since. Having read several other books that are now dated, I would hate to think that I would be disillusioned by the piece (after all, time changes everything).<br />
<br />
2. Pauline & Dan Campanelli: Wheel of the Year - Living The Magical Life and <span id="btAsinTitle">Ancient Ways: Reclaiming Pagan Traditions. Who has read these books and not wanted to live as they do? LOL. They make you yearn for a simple lifestyle in a cottage somewhere. Both books can be used to help inspire Sabbat celebrations, and keep your journey throughout the year on track. These books are the ones I love to read on a stormy night by the fireplace...alot like the cover of Wheel of the Year! They make me smile.</span><br />
<br />
3. Phyllis Curott: Book of Shadows and Witch Crafting A Spiritual Guide to Making Magic . Book of Shadows tells the story of Ms. Curott's personal journey into Paganism, Witchcraft and her relationship with the Goddess. IMHO, it is required reading for anyone serious about pursuing this path. It's a great read, refreshing and so different from the other cookie cutter books on Paganism and Witchcraft. I am in the middle of Witch Crafting right now, and it's wonderful. This is the "how to" book I wish I had read right after Diary of a Witch!<br />
<br />
4. Marion Green - A Witch Alone - Thirteen Moons to Master Natural Magic. In my opnion, one of the best books to use if one is following a solitary path. I really liked the exercises she includes at the end of each chapter, and the reading list that accompanies it.<br />
<br />
5. <span id="btAsinTitle">Shekhinah Mountainwater: Ariadne's Thread: A Workbook of Goddess Magic. One of the best books to use for Goddess Studies. Great for solitaires, great for women spiritual groups, just plain great. I've used this book countless times to fill a small basket with questions that my coven uses to spark discussions. </span><br />
<br />AutumnPulstarhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17184460745882096042noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682368146034477212.post-76407055109325948402012-04-06T01:00:00.000-04:002012-04-06T01:00:00.731-04:00<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
Gaia – CELEBRATE Earth Day</div>
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Earth Day is April 22<sup>nd</sup> and it’s a Sunday this year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What a great opportunity to really get in touch with Mother Earth and refocus our efforts in making the environment a priority.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What other element has its own special day?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Don’t let it just pass by – get out there and celebrate.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Make a difference!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Every little bit helps and can be the catalyst for a larger change down the road.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Here are some suggestions to get you thinking about how you can keep Earth Day sacred.</div>
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<span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span>Attend an Earth Day event.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Check your local paper or the local news website for a listing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span>Organize an event yourself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It doesn’t have to be a “pagan” gathering.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Perhaps you can simply rally the neighbors to walk around the neighborhood picking up trash.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Serve simple refreshments after and you can turn it into a social event as well and build strong relationships with those who live next to you.</div>
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<span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3.<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span>Don’t drive.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If at all possible, leave the car in the driveway for the day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Walk where you need to go, or take public transportation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Car pool if necessary.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<span style="mso-list: Ignore;">4.<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span>Plan your errands.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>While the car is taking a break, think about the errands you run during the week. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Are your trips to the store well thought out that you are only picking up groceries once a week and consolidating all your other stops into that one trip?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Are your stops in order so that you are not cris-crossing back and forth across town?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you must have a car the rest of the year, use it wisely.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<span style="mso-list: Ignore;">5.<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span>Recycle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Though I would hope that as a Pagan you are already doing this, sometimes it’s helpful to take a look at your efforts and make sure you are still on track.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do you take the easy way out and throw “just this one can” in the garbage since the recycling bin is not nearby?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do you donate unused items to the local thrift shop?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do you shop at the same thrift store to see if they have what you need?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do you sell your items on a website or list them as a free giveaway?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do you use what you already have for art projects?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The web is full of great creative ideas for items easily found around the home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Get creative with cans, plastic bottles and toilet paper rolls.</div>
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<span style="mso-list: Ignore;">6.<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span>Keep electrical use to a minimum.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I HOPE you get through an entire day without the television or computer on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Keep the lights off too (let’s face it; we probably all have enough candles to make it through a month long power outage.)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you start to get jittery about not having TV or the computer, just remember that also means no laundry or vacuuming.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>See?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can see you smile already.</div>
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<span style="mso-list: Ignore;">7.<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span>Plant something.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There is no better way to get in touch with Mother Earth than getting your hands dirty.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Plant a tree, a vegetable garden, some flowers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Get in there and DIG.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<span style="mso-list: Ignore;">8.<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span>Research environmental organizations and choose one that you would love to support.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Even if you can’t financially help out, these groups often need volunteers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Find one and commit to doing what you can to help them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you’d like to keep it on a local level, search parks or lakes/rivers that are nearby. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Frequently there is a group that works to protect that park or body of water.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Get involved.</div>
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<span style="mso-list: Ignore;">9.<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span>Teach.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Are you knowledgeable about composting?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Collecting rainwater or building your own rain barrel?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Solar energy?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Have you mastered simplicity and downscaling?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>See if you can find a way to share what you know with others.</div>
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<span style="mso-list: Ignore;">10.<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hold a ritual to Gaia.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Many Earth Day events have a place where you can “pledge” to go greener in everyday life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Take it further and dedicate yourself and your efforts to Gaia in Sacred Space.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At the least, celebrate her and everything this earth has provided to us and say THANK YOU!</div>AutumnPulstarhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17184460745882096042noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682368146034477212.post-29398330543794492572012-03-30T00:42:00.000-04:002012-03-30T00:44:36.071-04:00<br />
<div style="font-family: 'times new roman', arial, verdana; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-left;">
Gaia</div>
<div style="font-family: 'times new roman', arial, verdana; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-left;">
<br />
All that we know</div>
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all that we are</div>
<div style="font-family: 'times new roman', arial, verdana; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-left;">
The sun is in the sky</div>
<div style="font-family: 'times new roman', arial, verdana; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-left;">
The moon is in the sky</div>
<div style="font-family: 'times new roman', arial, verdana; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-left;">
But Gaia is here</div>
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We touch her</div>
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We feel her </div>
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We breathe her</div>
<div style="font-family: 'times new roman', arial, verdana; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-left;">
Dirt beneath our feet</div>
<div style="font-family: 'times new roman', arial, verdana; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-left;">
Leaves tumbling down</div>
<div style="font-family: 'times new roman', arial, verdana; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-left;">
Rotate, Rotate</div>
<div style="font-family: 'times new roman', arial, verdana; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-left;">
It doesn't matter.</div>
<div style="font-family: 'times new roman', arial, verdana; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-left;">
We are here </div>
<div style="font-family: 'times new roman', arial, verdana; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-left;">
On Gaia</div>
<div style="font-family: 'times new roman', arial, verdana; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-left;">
The Great Mother.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Air, Fire, Water</div>
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If not the Mother Earth</div>
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Than where would they be?</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: 'times new roman', arial, verdana; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-left;">
We are born of earth</div>
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And at death we return</div>
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The Great Mother sustains us</div>
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And gives us hope.</div>
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<br /></div>
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I can say no more</div>
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Other than love and wish</div>
<div style="font-family: 'times new roman', arial, verdana; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-left;">
And hope and pray</div>
<div style="font-family: 'times new roman', arial, verdana; font-size: 13px; text-align: -webkit-left;">
That what I plant can be harvested</div>
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That what I sow can surely be reaped</div>
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And that Gaia circles around the sun</div>
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And that we can rejoice in the new day.</div>
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<br /></div>AutumnPulstarhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17184460745882096042noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682368146034477212.post-25242490199395808302012-03-23T00:47:00.000-04:002012-03-23T00:47:09.705-04:00<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Feasting
During Ritual – Otherwise Known as Cakes and Ale</span><br />
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Raising energy during ritual for magickal work can be draining to the participants of the ritual. Eating and drinking helps ground everyone and begins the journey back to the real world. Yet this phase of the ritual, often referred to as Cakes and Ale, can ruin a perfectly crafted and executed ritual. I've seen it happen way too often. Attendees can be on top of the world after a successful energy raising, or reflective and deeply connected to deity after a meditation, only to be handed a paper cup of a kids drink in a color unknown in nature. This is presented in conjunction with a mass produced confection containing only one pronounceable ingredient: water. As if on cue, the reverent attendees turn into a cackle of school children, discussing everything "under the moon" including their last date with the plumber who helped them with the broken toilet. Spare me!</span></div>
If your group is going to incorporate Cakes and Ale as part of the ritual, be sure that everyone understands that this is truly PART OF THE RITUAL and that you are still in sacred space. A predetermined set of guidelines helps to keep everyone focused on the task at hand with the right mindset. These guidelines will help you keep the mood on the sacred.<br />
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<span style="color: #29303b; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;">1)<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> Have a
Blessing. It can be as simple as having the
participants pass the items around the circle with the familiar words “May you
never hunger, May you never thirst.” Or
the High Priest/Priestess can bless the offering much more elaborately. Either way, participants should get the idea
that this is a sacred act.</span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #29303b; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;">2)<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Keep in mind the size of the ritual. It is fairly easy to pass out cakes
and ale in a timely manner when there are 13 or less participants; not as simple
when there are 30. Figure out ahead of
time how to quickly distribute the items in order to keep everyone engaged. This also includes planning for any necessary
cleanup before the ritual continues (what are the participants suppose to do
with those paper cups?)</span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #29303b; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;">3)<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Ask yourself if after the blessing whether or
not everyone should remain silent. If
you do allow talking, keep the subject matter on the ritual. A passing comment such as “Look at the beautiful
full moon!” or “Does anyone else notice the interesting shapes being made by
the incense smoke?” may even enhance the ritual experience, especially if folks
may find silence unsettling. Save the
talk about the dog’s fleas to after ritual.</span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #29303b; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;">4)<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Carefully choose what you are going to serve
to compliment the ritual. There are
lists of food correspondences for each Sabbat readily available, and often food
items can be paired with the magical working.
</span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="color: #29303b; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;">5)<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Be considerate of dietary needs. In a small ritual where everyone knows all
the attendees it is fairly easy to accommodate the group – but even then
sometimes things change. Be sure to
always announce prior to the start of the ritual exactly what is being served
and any other information that if withheld, could literally mean life or
death. “The muffin contains eggs and
milk.” “I used peanut oil to bake this.” Remember that not everyone can or wants to
drink alcohol, even if it’s just a sip.
Water is usually a safe bet.</span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="color: #29303b; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;">6)<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">If as a participant you find that you are not
going to be able to partake of Cakes and Ale, say nothing. There is no reason to put the host on the
spot by proclaiming “I can’t eat that!” in front of the crowd. Just accept the offering during the ritual,
hold it to the heavens indicating you are offering it to deity, or close your
eyes and hold it close to your heart. Then
simply pass it along to the next person.
It is respectful and keeps with the sacredness of the moment. Afterwards a few words to the host,
especially if you are going to circle with these folks again, are warranted. “The cake looked delicious, but unfortunately
I’m allergic to lemon” is all that is needed.</span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #29303b; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;">7)<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">The High Priest/Priestess should keep a close
watch on the energy levels of the group.
When everyone has partaken of cakes and ale, move to the next part of
the ritual quickly. It goes a long way
in keeping everyone on track.</span><span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">If
all else fails and you still feel that Cakes and Ale disrupts the flow of the
ritual, drop it. There are other ways to
ground after energy raising if it’s immediately necessary. Hug a tree. Get down on the ground (kneel, sit, lay) and
press the palm of your hands flat against the ground or floor and reconnect
with earth. You can also raise both
hands and give any excess energy to the sky.
Pat yourself down, clap your hands, stomp your feet, wiggle around. Leave the feasting to after ritual where
folks can laugh, tell jokes and discuss the cute plumber. <br />
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</span><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; float: none; orphans: 2; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"></span>AutumnPulstarhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17184460745882096042noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682368146034477212.post-23340901950263834682012-03-09T01:00:00.000-05:002012-03-09T01:00:02.555-05:00Earth and Money<br />
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East and Earth, North and Air</div>
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Two elements to despair</div>
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When I was trying to come up with a topic for this week’s blog this quick little rhyme came to me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I had already written about my experiences with East, and how folks can from time to time lose that special connection with one of the elements.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Did I feel like I was experiencing the same thing with Earth?</div>
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I could visualize myself in ritual, standing in the North with arms outstretched.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My mind quickly made a checklist of those characteristics that are often contributed to Earth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Stength.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Stability.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Endurance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I could sense the quietness of midnight or snow falling steadily on a winter’s morning.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All I had to do was open the door and head outside to touch earth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Plant my feet firmly on the ground or better yet, pick up some dirt, get a whiff of that musty aroma and run it through my fingers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I hummed a few bars of Paul Simon’s “I Am a Rock” for good measure.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I felt connected, what was going on?</div>
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As often happens when one tries to concentrate or meditate, the mind wanders.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We all have an internal check list of projects and decisions that are pending.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We learn quickly to recognize those thoughts that creep in and then just let them go. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Or at least try to. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was no different.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Internal conversation:</div>
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Me:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So I’m going to write about despair and Earth?</div>
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Mind:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Did you mail in the payment for the car insurance?</div>
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Me:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can smell freshly mown grass as if it’s right here outside the window.</div>
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Mind:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Did you figure out a way to budget for taxes due next month?</div>
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Me:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Green.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I love the color green.</div>
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Mind:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How much do you think the hotel is going to cost?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We’re leaving in six weeks!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Where is that coming from?</div>
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Me:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I like brown too…</div>
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Mind:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do you know how many expenses are coming up?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I think the family will be feasting on peanut butter and jelly for a long, long time.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Money.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>From its color to the pentacles/coins of a Tarot deck.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is the one elemental correspondence that seems so, can I use the word, mundane.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Many pagans try to pretend it’s not necessary to have money.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For years pagans have balked at the idea of having to pay someone to teach or counsel, even if that teacher had out of pocket expenses to do so. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Only recently has that attitude seemed to change – that folks realize that everyone needs to make a living.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As long as you’re not taking advantage of anyone, it’s okay to be compensated.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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But I digress.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I realized that my concern about my own financial situation had subconsciously changed my connection with the element Earth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I thought about the term “The Power of Money”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How appropriate – look at what it had done to me!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It wasn’t obvious either.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Just a silly rhyme that had played in my head made me pause.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Despair?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Earth?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What the heck?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I had to admit though that I was stressed about money lately.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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The things that happen in our everyday lives can greatly influence our relationships with everything on the magickal plane.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The elements, our totems, Deity.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You can’t separate the two.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s all part of the whole.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Just pay attention.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Work with the appropriate element to solve the problem.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Earth and I will be spending some quality time together.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Find the element that can help you.</div>AutumnPulstarhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17184460745882096042noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682368146034477212.post-48542038711654556922012-03-02T01:41:00.001-05:002012-03-02T01:41:48.747-05:00East and The Kite<br />
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">One of the
first things a beginner to the Craft learns is how to cast a circle and call
the Quarters. A circle defines a protected
space that is separate from the outside world.
It not only keeps unwanted energies out of the space, but helps contain
the energy created by your working until it is time to release it. An important part of creating that circle is
to call the Quarters – each of the four elements: Air (East), Fire (South),
Water (West) and Earth (North).
Sometimes Ether or Spirit is called as a fifth element (Center). </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">We learn
that each Quarter is equally important.
We memorize the appropriate direction, ritual tool, color, animal and
deity association and all the attributes that go along with that element. We know the time of day and the season of the
year that corresponds with it. We create
and memorize a quarter call for each one, and eventually feel confident enough
to burn the paper and call the quarter from what speaks to our heart. That is usually the first moment when you
realize that you have only been going through the motions and now you have that
feeling that you actually succeeded in doing it. You truly feel the presence of the
element. The room gets hotter when you
speak of Fire. There is a sudden
downpour when you beckon to Water.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">You get
better at it and it becomes second nature.
You relish that feeling of working with the elements. You may take anywhere from a week to a year
to work with each element individually. It’s a great opportunity to grow in your
practice. You’re excited about your work
and your progress and then WHAM it happens.
You may be with a group of folks who are planning a ritual and asking
for volunteers for Quarter Calls and they need someone for North/Earth and you
feel panicked that they might ask you.
Why? Because you suddenly realize
that it’s not your strongest quarter.
You not only have a favorite one, but there’s one you really would
rather not deal with. There’s no way
getting around it when working alone, but if you can dodge it otherwise, you
would be more than happy to.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">East was the
Quarter I avoided for quite awhile. When
I lived farther north, I was in an area where almost every day you could feel
wind. It was always around you, and the
sound of rustling leaves in the trees before a summer storm was magickal in of
itself. When the air was still, it had
an eerie quality and you just knew something was amiss. Paganism was a new beginning, I wasn’t even a
Maiden yet when I started having spiritual experiences, I was born in the spring,
spent summer vacations at the shore flying kites every evening, brought home
every feather I could find and majored in literature and communications in
college. East and I were on very good
terms.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Then I moved
farther south. What wind. It’s either very still or we are under a
hurricane or tornado watch. We had one
very windy day a few years back. I sat
on my porch for hours just listening to the trees sway with the breeze. Last year we went to the mountains and I had
a moment of homesickness when the wind picked up and there was that sound
again. I’ve moved way beyond the spring
portion of the wheel in chronological years and I look hideous in yellow. East and I had become merely acquaintances.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">What can we
do when we find that our relationship with an element is not quite what it
should be? A few years ago some friends
and I gathered at the beach for a weekend away.
We planned on working on each of the elements individually for a few
hours. Part of our East project was to
build a kite and then fly it on the beach.
First off, I’m not the most creative person when it comes to anything
crafty, and my version of a kite was, shall we say, interesting. But there I was, running across the sand
trying to get the kite up in the air. I
had flown kites for years in my youth. Instead, it stayed close to the ground and
just spun wildly like a pinwheel that had too much to drink. But it made me
laugh. A lot. I was a kid playing with a homemade toy. The wind whipped that poor kite around until
finally it tore apart. I was still
chuckling as I picked up the pieces. The
kite may have been a disaster, but I had once again connected to East. I could see it, feel it, and hear it. It was fun, just like the old days. East had brought out the inner child.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">If you find
yourself hiding when volunteers are being sought for a particular element, then
find a way to play with that element.
Figure out a way to have that element speak to the kid hiding inside. Calling Quarters in ritual is serious. But having a connection with the elements
outside of ritual will enhance your journey through life. Make it a fun one. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>AutumnPulstarhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17184460745882096042noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5682368146034477212.post-87214393786282249612012-02-24T00:09:00.000-05:002016-02-28T21:55:06.483-05:00To Dare<br />
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">If you have been spell crafting for awhile, you probably have heard the term “To Know, To Dare, To Will and To Keep Silent.” You may have even seen it with Will and Dare reversed. It is a worthy guideline to help ensure a successful magickal working. Most of it is pretty straightforward.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">To Know - You have to know exactly what you want to accomplish. The more precise you can be, the greater the likelihood that you will get what you want. Write it down and be as specific as possible. Draw your goal – or use another art form - if it helps to see it clearly. Keep it in a positive light. Know exactly what you are going to do in creating the spell. Gather whatever materials you will need so everything is in order before you begin.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">To Will – You have to want it. The more emotionally attached you are to the goal; the better your chances to succeed. Use whatever tools or visualization techniques you need to raise that emotional energy and awareness. All the candles and rhymes won’t mean a thing if you don’t care. Find that connection that will lift your spirits or tug at your heart strings.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">To Keep Silent – Once the spell is done, let it go and let the universe take over. Don’t talk about it, and certainly don’t dwell on it internally. Take what steps you need to help it along, but do it with the mindset that it is all part of the course of the spell. For example, if you cast a spell to win the lottery, it is okay to actually buy a lottery ticket and put it in your wallet and forget about it until after the drawing. It is not okay to tell everyone that you cast a spell to win millions. (We do all know that for the most part, spells for winning the lottery don’t work, right?)</span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">That leaves To Dare. It is the most complicated of the four in my opinion because it has more complex levels to it. First of all, you have to dare to do the spell. There is a reason you have to be precise in what you want to accomplish, careful in your choice of words. You don’t want the universe to misunderstand and have the spell totally backfire. Spells can be nerve-racking. It’s an excellent reason to keep spells as simple and clear as possible. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Second, you have to dare to follow through. Do everything you can to make it work. You may have crafted a beautiful spell to find a better job with higher pay in an industry you adore, but if you don’t polish up your resume, brush up on your skills, watch the classified ads and let those who can help you know that you are looking for another position; it’s probably not going to go very far.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Lastly, you have to dare to accept responsibility for the outcome of the spell – and accept the outcome itself. Remember the adage “Be careful what you wish for.” If the spell is a disaster, what are you going to do to fix it? Will you have the courage to accept the results because upon reflection the outcome is really for the best? If the results are okay, but not quite what you wanted, was it something you did to change the outcome or is the universe setting you up for something that is for your higher good? Do you dare wait to find out? If that job offer for a higher paying position comes through, do you dare accept it knowing that you will have to move 150 miles away from your family and friends?</span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">To Know, To Dare, To Will and To Keep Silent. Use those words as a template as you begin to put your spell together. I would really focus on To Dare. If you visualize every scenario and picture yourself facing each one with courage, it will aid in putting together a successful working.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt;">. </span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 7pt;">I</span><b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 24pt;"></span></b></div>
AutumnPulstarhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17184460745882096042noreply@blogger.com1