Monday, September 30, 2013

9/30/13


Five of Swords/Queen of Cups.  The Five of Swords (Venus, beauty, allure, relationships, pleasure, in Aquarius, “I know,” friendships, cause-oriented, the group, aloof) shows what happens when we insist that our way is right, or when we impose our needs or wants onto a situation.  Jamming that square peg into that round hole never works, it just does not work.  Looks like I might either be tempted to believe it can work after all, or I might be dealing with someone else who is convinced that it will work.  The Queen of Cups (cusp of Gemini, “I think,” curious, sociable, dual, and Cancer, “I feel,” sensitive, tenacious, nurturing, moody) represents the energies of Water and The High Priestess manifested into the Minor Arcana.  She tells me that no matter how I feel inside, the best way to handle things is through compassion and acceptance, all while striving to stick to the rules without ruffling feathers.

My Thoth card is the Two of Swords reversed.  “Peace” is Uncle Al’s keyword for the upright card.  The Two of Swords (Moon, feelings and emotions, illusion, imagination, in Libra, “We are,” partnerships, balance, cooperation) in an upright position this card represents a time of not looking or of shutting out the world.  The serenity of this card happens because we are vigilant and on guard, and because we choose to not receive or acknowledge as valid the information that comes to us from the outside.  I am being told, however, that shutting out the world might just end up being the same thing as sticking my head in the sand.  No avoiding issues today!

My Legacy card is The Empress reversed, flavored by the Eight of Cups reversed.  The Empress (which corresponds with Earth (cold/binds and dry/shapes, and stable, material, practical energies that are slow to change), Venus (beauty, allure, pleasure, relationships), the Hebrew letter Daleth (door or womb) and the Path between Binah (female receptive energy and the origin of form and structure) and Chokmah on the Tree of Life (dynamic male energy and the origin of vital force and polarity)) is one half of the Major Arcana representation of the Sacred Feminine, the half that is about creativity, fertility of all kinds, a deep connection to Nature and the nurturing of others, and an enjoyment of the senses.  She is my significator, so her presence either upright or reversed is a huge “pay attention!” to me.  My Empress is reversed, and she is warning me to be careful about feeling just a bit too sure of myself.  I can’t let my guard down or allow my awareness to go on vacation. Eight of Cups (Saturn, discipline, responsibility, limitation, law and order, in Pisces, “I believe,” feeling, duality, suffering, soul growth) in an upright position tells of an ending or a decline or a change of direction, often one associated with emotions, and it offers one possible response to that decline or change: moving on.  Like my Empress, my Eight of Cups card is reversed; together they could be showing me a kind of cause/effect scenario.  When we refuse to be realistic about our feelings and emotions (especially about those from which we should be walking away), we block our ability to effectively deal with them.

My 6-digit date number is 6, the number of vertical and horizontal balance.

My horoscopes: “New career opportunities appear on the scene to reawaken your ambition. You might come across some unusual possibilities for advancement that you've never considered before. This can be a bit intimidating but also exciting. You're unlikely to pass up any chances until you consider them. Success and good fortune are indicated.

And: “You may be especially sensitive to the moods of others, and today they could be a bit testy. It could be hard to get much accomplished with all the yelling and screaming that's going on. This is definitely not an environment conducive to deep thinking. Do your best to stay completely out of the fray and focus on what you need to do. The yelling is likely to subside by the end of the day.

My Shadowscapes Insight is regarding the Nine of Wands.  Vigilence; there is that concept again.  This card is reminding me that maintaining awareness is a continuous process, and in order to be effective at this, I need to think out of the box, and I need to keep plugged into my core well of personal power.

I shuffled my Wild Unknown Tarot again, and the result is interesting: The Eight of Wands, the card immediately following the last Wild Unknown Tarot card I threw.  The Wild Unknown Tarot Eight of Wands is not your traditional Eight of Wands. Yes, there are no people in this card, as is traditional, and yes, it shows 8 Wands.  But that is where the similarities end.  The Wands are all laid out point-in and spread out so they make a circle.  The background is dark, and coming from above is a lightning bolt, colored from red at the top, through orange, yellow, green and finishing with blue where the bolt is just hitting the center of the circle of wands.  Bam!  We know what will happen next: those wands are going to shoot out in all directions.  The message here is obvious, even with this non-traditional image: some outside influence, most likely a natural one, is going to set things in motion in a sudden and possibly shocking way. 

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Sunday, September 29, 2013

9/29/13


Transparent Oracle Sunday!

50, Polarity: White Dragon (Above). The direction of Above takes us up and out of the four traditional elements of Air, Fire, Water and Earth, and reminds us that we are but a small part of the Cosmos.  Above also reminds us that while the Machinery of the Universe is huge, it does have an effect on each of us, and each of us is an important part of the workings of that Machinery.  The White Dragon represents masculine, dispassionate, celestial energies that come into us and into our world from “Above.”  If you see the solar system and the universe as being alive, and as being filled with the manifestations of the Sacred Essences that are the source of life and awareness, then these energies are very important.  We are the Microcosm, after all, and these energies are from the polar opposite, the Macrocosm . . . filled with information, knowledge and wisdom.

56, Grail Hollows: The Cauldron (Below).  The direction of Below is not easily associated with spirituality, yet it is a powerful symbol representing the opportunity to create a strong foundation, and to connect to the tools and powers of the Underworld.  The Grail Hollows are ancient treasures deeply connected to each of the four elements, guarded throughout time by the Tuatha de Danaan.  The Cauldron corresponds with the element of Water, and thus, with feelings, emotions, intuition, nourishment and healing, all necessary for the balance and harmony of the Self.  Within Wicca, The Cauldron is also seen as a representation of the Sacred Feminine, the Goddess, and Her fertile womb.

65, Voice (Within). Within is the direction of the Self, and thus the cards associated with this direction deal with the ways our Self connects to the world and perceives the world, and the Self.  This direction is mostly abstract, and yet is our bridge to the Universe around us.  The Voice is used for communication, but it is also a tool for expression and for manifestation.  It is about an outward flow of knowledge, wisdom, information or energy, effected through the workings of the throat chakra, but supported by the solar plexus chakra.

I then stacked my cards and created my mandala.  Holy crow!  The Sacred Masculine, the Sacred Feminine, and the emanation of wisdom, information or energy from within.  But this message is about more than simple self-expression (not that self-expression is simple).  After all, anyone can talk, and not know and understand and believe that words have immense power.  Our words can soothe and our words can start wars.  Even silence, the lack of words, has power.  I am being told here that communications are important now; they may be connected to Deity and I should listen carefully.  I also need to monitor what comes out of me, for communication is two way. 

I’ve finally picked up my Wild Unknown Tarot again, and threw a card: The Seven of Wands.  This card shows one wand, emanating a flame that lights up the surrounding darkness, surrounded by six other wands that are leaning against each other, as if spent.  There is interesting symbolism here, for in the Tarot the number 6 represents vertical and horizontal harmony, and yet the Seven of Wands, the next step from the Six card, has a solitary feel about it.  Harmony has weight to it, and thus its nature is to become degeneration; the Seven of Wands tells us to look around and decide if this is what we want.  If this is what we want, we need to actively stake a claim, draw a line in the sand and insist that the boundary is valid.  It is only by actively and deliberately owning whatever we want that we actually achieve it.  

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Saturday, September 28, 2013

9/28/13


Three of Wands/Four of Swords. The Three of Wands (Sun, the inner core of a person or situation, the deepest self and personal power, in Aries, “I want,” action oriented, pioneering, assertive) is a card of planning ahead that tells of the excitement that comes with good possibilities at hand.  Looks like I will e able to perceive some good opportunities, and take advantage of them. The Four of Swords (Jupiter, expansiveness and growth, justice, fortune, in Libra, “We are,” partnerships, balance, cooperation) can represent a pause or truce or mutual deterrent, or a time of silence and isolation. Serenity and security are presented here, and even if they are temporary, perhaps I can take advantage of them.  Might be a good time to have a real good look around, while things are quiet.

My Thoth card is the Princess of Swords reversed. The Princess/Page of Swords (Capricorn, “I build,” ambitious, competent, cautious, cunning, Aquarius, “I know,” friendships, the group, society, cause-oriented, and Pisces, “I believe,” feelings, duality, soul growth, spirituality) tells us to use our mind and intellect to analyze our situations as well as our emotions and feelings. This Princess is cautious, sometimes to the point of being overly defensive, but since she is reversed, I won’t allow caution to tie me down.

My Legacy card is the Four of Swords reversed, flavored by the Six of Wands reversed.  Bookends!! The Legacy reversed Four of Swords tells of the readiness to resume whatever was being done before the pause represented by the upright card.  This means any rest period has been productive, and I will probably be less stressed and more alert because of it.  The Six of Wands (Jupiter, expansiveness and growth, justice, fortune, in Leo, “I am,” passionate, dramatic, noble, authoritative) in an upright position expresses the celebration we feel when we have passed some test or successfully met a challenge.  My card is reversed, and it is flavoring the reversed Four of Swords.  Looks like it was good that I rested while I could, because the time of rest could be coming to an end.  That’s okay, it just means that I am one step close to attaining the time of celebration represented by the upright Six of Wands.

My 6-digit date number is 5, the number that tells of movement that upsets stability but prevents stagnation.

My horoscopes: “Your strong yet steady pace may get a lift today, Sagittarius. It might seem like there's a fire under your feet, and you probably need to keep moving in order to keep yourself from getting burned. Use your independent streak to get things done the way you want them. This could be a powerhouse day for you!

And: “Join together with others today, and you will find that you will make tremendous progress on whatever tasks you undertake. Remember that many hands make light work. There is a distinct advantage in sharing you burden with the people around you. Don't pretend to be able to tackle everything by yourself. There is no reason to strain yourself when there are plenty of willing hands around you who are eager to help you.

My Shadowscapes Insight is regarding the Three of Wands.  This is such a great card!  It tells me that I am standing on a precipice; before me stretches the great unknown, alluring and filled with promise.  At first glance, the great unknown appears to be unattainable.  The lesson here is that the next step will not appear until I BELIEVE it is there!  The power of belief!

More about our Bookends card, the Four of Swords.  This card presents stillness or stalemate, or a temporary balance of power, or a conscious choice to rest before resuming our efforts.  It does present a kind of limbo, eh?  The Legacy of the Divine card talks of rebirth after a time of quiet, and it also presents the concept of trance.  I like this interpretation!  The Llewellyn Welsh card tells of asylum, and it also presents the concept of vigil.  Holding a vigil is a silent and solitary endeavor, but even though there is not a lot of activity, there is power present. The Wild Unknown Tarot tells of physical stillness, but this one also hints at the mental power to be had from stillness. The Thoth Tarot presents a temporary balance of power, as well as the idea of following rules or being conventional.  The Shadowscapes Tarot tells of taking a respite in order to seek the quiet core that is the home of inner strength.  This is not a wimpy card, even though the traditional image shows someone resting! 

Today was the Mind/Body/Spirit Fair at Off the Beaten Path, the shop where I teach belly dance and Reiki.  We had a beautiful Fall day, blue skies and nice temperatures.  I also gave a short demo on Chair Yoga, and one of the women there, who has MS, is interested in classes.  Yay!

I am expecting October to be a wild and crazy month.  I am entering my second Saturn Return, my 59th solar return is approaching, and at the end of October, I will complete (hopefully successfully) 200 hour Yoga Teacher Training.  I am also making my plans to visit my Covenstead for Third Degree Initiation, which will happen some time around Imbolc.  These next four weeks until Samhain I am going to make every effort to get my life organized, I am going to perform a physical, mental, emotional and spiritual Fall cleaning.  Normally when I sense the approach of some life-changing Aha! Moment, I sit back and wait.  Not this time, this time I am actively seeking that moment!

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Friday, September 27, 2013

9/27/13


Ten of Swords/Knight of Wands reversed.  The Ten of Swords (the Sun, the inner core of a person or situation, in Gemini, “I think,” curious, sociable, dual, talkative) tells of the perception of the complete manifestation of interference, powerlessness and restriction.  The message of this card makes sense to me, and I think it is hinting of things to come, rather than how I feel right now.  Although I do feel stretched a bit thin, things should be resolving over the next four weeks.  I should keep in mind during these next weeks that the limitations that affect me are the ones I believe are valid; those are the only blockages. The Knight of Wands (cusp of Scorpio, “I desire,” intense, controlling, deep, obsessive, and Sagittarius, “I seek,” philosophic, fun-loving, blundering) in an upright position usually represents a person of passion, courage, enthusiasm and boundless energy; most definitely not background-type efforts.  My Knight of Wands is reversed, and perhaps I’m not so ready for unexpected challenges today.  I know challenges are coming, but I’m not quite ready to face them yet.  Good thing they are still on their way, eh? 

My Thoth card is the Six of Disks.  “Success” is Uncle Al’s keyword for this card, success in the physical world. The Six of Disks (Moon, feelings and emotions, illusion, imagination, in Taurus, “I have,” Sensual, cautious, stubborn) brings an awareness of resources to the situation, both those that I have and those that I don’t have, in both the upright and reversed position. Crowley sees the Six of Disks as a card of balance, and while that balance is fertile, it is also temporary.  More hints of things to come.

My Legacy card is the Two of Wands reversed, flavored by the Knight of Cups.  The Two of Wands (Mars, action, spontaneity, aggression, drive, in Aries, “I want,” action oriented, pioneering, assertive, enthusiastic) in an upright position tells of power, influence and authority. My Two of Wands is reversed, and I am being told that now may not be the time for me to make use of my power, influence or authority.  Hmmm . . . more instructions to pause.  My reversed Two of Wands is being flavored by the Knight of Cups.  The Knight of Cups (cusp of Aquarius, “I know,” friendships, the group, cause-oriented, and Pisces, “I believe,” feelings, duality, suffering, soul growth) is about feeling things strongly and without restraint or grounding.  Today, feelings and dreams and imagination will be important, and perhaps I need to pay attention to my dreams and the messages of my Inner Voice..

My 6-digit date number is 4, the number of depth and stability.

My horoscopes: “If you've had some problems in your sentimental life during the last few months, Sagittarius, they're probably behind you now. It's a sure bet that you've learned something. You've been served the same dish for years and now it seems you've finally had enough! Know that from now on you'll be better about not falling into the same old traps.

And: “Try not to get too over-confident today, when you think you know the answer to everything. The thing to remember is that you don't know the answer to everything and that you are on an endless journey of more and more knowledge acquisition. The learning process never ends, so always keep your ears and eyes open to new information that comes your way. There should be plenty out there for you to digest today.

My Shadowscapes Insight is regarding the Ace of Cups.  More potential found in the suit of Cups!!  Feelings, emotions, dreams, tides and flows of energies are important today.  What is pulling at me?  How do I feel about that?  These are the questions to be asked, and answered. 

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Wednesday, September 25, 2013

9/25/13


Seven of Swords reversed/Knight of Cups.  The Seven of Swords (Moon, feelings and emotions, illusion, imagination, in Aquarius, “I know,” friendships, cause-oriented, the group, aloofness) in an upright position tells of the effort to maintain things as we want them, often through the use of deception and without considering the wants or needs of others.  My card is reversed, so hopefully I won’t be wasting time and effort (and integrity!) on projects that would be better left alone The Knight of Cups (cusp of Aquarius, “I know,” friendships, the group, cause-oriented, and Pisces, “I believe,” feelings, duality, suffering, soul growth) is about feeling things strongly and without restraint or grounding.  Today, feelings and dreams and imagination will all strive to have a say in how things manifest.  Because my Knight is upright, I am going to assume the intensity of those things will be good.

My Thoth card is the Knight of Disks.  In the Thoth Tarot, the rank of Knight equals the rank of King in other decks.  The Knight/King of Disks (cusp of Aries, “I want,” action oriented, assertive, competitive, and Taurus, “I have,” sensual, stubborn, cautious, physically oriented) is the expert on physical world manifestation of all kinds.  He is good at managing physical world resources, but he focuses a lot on the business end of things.  Today it might be easy to lose touch with nature as tasks are taken care of.

My Legacy card is the Knight of Swords reversed, flavored by The Empress reversed.  The Knight of Swords (the cusp of Taurus, “I have,” sensual, stubborn, cautious, and Gemini, “I think,” curious, talkative, dual, intelligent) is outspoken, assured, alert, and logical, as well as rude, domineering, critical and sarcastic.  My Knight is reversed, which means that ideas might tumble over each other, without the ability to be productive.  A lack of tolerance for others could cause some discomfort, and so could a lack of mental focus.  My reversed Knight of Swords is being flavored by another reversed card, The Empress.  The Empress (which corresponds with Earth (cold/binds and dry/shapes, and stable, material, practical energies that are slow to change), Venus (beauty, allure, pleasure, relationships), the Hebrew letter Daleth (door or womb) and the Path between Binah (female receptive energy and the origin of form and structure) and Chokmah on the Tree of Life (dynamic male energy and the origin of vital force and polarity)) is one half of the Major Arcana representation of the Sacred Feminine.  The Empress is about creativity, fertility of all kinds, a deep connection to Nature and the nurturing of others, and an enjoyment of the senses.  She is my significator, so her presence either upright or reversed is a huge “pay attention!” to me.  My Empress is reversed, and again I am being warned that I may have trouble concentrating or focusing today.  She also represents fertility and the pleasure of the senses, and that reversed Knight coupled with an imbalance within The Empress could bring stagnation or lethargy. 

My 6-digit date number is 2, the number of balance, polarity, and the energy of “distance between.”

My horoscopes: “Making use of state-of-the-art technology to increase your income could take up your time and energy today, Sagittarius. You might be starting a new business or enhancing the efficiency of a current one, but in order to do it your brain will have to process a lot of information. Don't be intimidated by the technical stuff. Just take it step by step and you'll catch on.

And: “Your intuition and imagination are operating at a very high level today, and you may be inspired to write. However, you aren't likely to have enough ideas or information to actually put pen to paper. There is no rush, though. Take some time to allow the ideas to crystallize and set them down later. Someone in a bad mood may try to draw you into a quarrel. Don't fall into this trap! Brush it off and say you're busy!

My Shadowscapes Insight is regarding the Eight of Cups.   A perfect solution to the muddy clouds of my cards today.  The Shadowscapes Eight of Cups urges us to turn away from the confusion and hustle and bustle of the outside world, and to turn instead toward the calm and quiet of the inner self.  Perhaps just a bit of time focusing within could allow me to make sense of the inability to focus presented by my cards today. 

Well, my computer is repaired, my iPod speakers are repaired, and I went to a lovely (and tough) Yoga class.  Now all I need is a good night’s sleep!

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Tuesday, September 24, 2013

9/24/13


Four of Wands reversed/Eight of Cups.  The Four of Wands (Venus, beauty, allure, relationships, in Aries, “I want,” action oriented, assertive, enthusiastic), is about building enough to become established, about the results of harmony and effort and creativity combined.  This is often considered a fortunate card because it tells of an effectively planned and manifested foundation already in place. But, my Four is reversed today.  Perhaps I am being told that it is not yet the time to relax and let my guard down.  The Eight of Cups (Saturn, discipline, responsibility, limitation, law and order, in Pisces, “I believe,” feeling, duality, suffering, soul growth) tells of an ending or a decline or a change of direction, often one associated with emotions, and it offers one possible response to that decline or change: moving on.  This ends up being the only realistic choice when all else appears doomed to failure.  And today, I think I am being told not only to be on my guard, but also to consciously choose to walk away from the things that no longer serve me.  Hmmm . . . time for some deep thought.

My Thoth card is the Ace of Swords reversed.  The Ace of Swords (Capricorn, “I build,” ambition, caution authority, cunning, Aquarius and Pisces, “I believe,” feeling, duality, soul growth, artistic) tells of the birth of ideas and concepts.  The Ace of Swords me that I am ready to make use of logic and analysis in order to assert my Will.  But the skills offered by this card are potential only, not yet manifested, and I can’t just assume that they will be there when I need them.  Potential is great, but manifestation is better; since my card is reversed, I’m not yet connecting to what I need in order to make that manifestation happen.

My Legacy card is the Nine of Cups, flavored by the Five of Coins reversed.  The Nine of Cups (Jupiter, expansiveness and growth, justice, fortune, in Pisces, “I believe,” feelings, duality, suffering, soul growth) is about emotional satisfaction and the ability to find pleasure in feelings and emotions, and in our expectations for the day.  This is a lucky card, and it is interesting that it appears on a day when I don’t feel lucky.  I will take any luck that presents itself, and I will visualize good things and happy endings. 

My 6-digit date number is 10, the number that tells of the completion of a cycle, which reduces further to the number 1, potential and position.  My Nine of Cups is being flavored by the reversed Five of Coins.  The Five of Coins (Mercury, reason, intelligence, education, skill, communication, in Taurus, “I have,” sensual, cautious, stubborn) in an upright position tells of some loss or need within the physical world, but today my Five of Coins is reversed.  Perhaps this is why the Nine of Cups has appeared?  In any event, hopefully this card means that my issues won’t be too much of a financial burden.  Okay, then.

My horoscopes: “You might be thrown off balance by the flightiness of today, Sagittarius. Perhaps it's difficult to make a decision about anything. Try not to get too caught up in the gossip swarming around you. People may talk quite a bit today, but what you should be concerned with is substance. You want results and action, not empty information and promises.”

And: “Restlessness and boredom with your daily routine could draw you out of your usual sphere of influence today, and into group activities of some kind. Perhaps you've decided to take a class, or perhaps you simply need some congenial company. You could also decide to stroll through an art gallery, or attend a concert. A sports event would also be a lot of fun! Whatever you decide, this is not the evening to stay in. Get out and enjoy yourself!”

My Shadowscapes Insight is regarding the Page of Pentacles.  Potential in the physical world; that is what this Page offers me, with a gentle smile on her face.  She tells me to expect good things, and then work toward them.  She tells me to think out of the box, and to approach any task with the enthusiasm of a child.  I can do that!

Lots of confusion and upheaval of late.  I’ve had car issues, and I still am not sure if things are fixed yet, but I should know as I drive the car this week.  Now, my laptop is giving me problems.  I think it is just a battery issue, and I have an appointment with the Apple Store tomorrow morning.  Crossing my fingers!!

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Monday, September 23, 2013

9/23/13


Two of Cups reversed/Three of Swords.  Yep, I get this one.  The Two of Cups (Venus, beauty, allure, relationships, in Cancer, “I feel,” sensitive, family and home oriented, tenacious, moody) in an upright position tells of about love and connections, usually having to do with feelings, relationships and commonalities.  Today may have a bit of an isolation feel to it, and connections that I thought were good might end up to be troubling.  The Three of Swords (Saturn, discipline, responsibility, limitations and resistance, in Libra, “We are,” partnerships, balance, cooperation), my least favorite card in the entire deck, usually indicates the possibility that logic, rationalizing and the intellect could end up causing harm if they are not used with balance and compassion. I need to remember that knowing of whatever issue is bringing my Three of Swords to me today is the first step in dealing with that issue, and mitigating possible damages.  Grieve, and get over it.

My Thoth card is the Seven of Swords reversed.  Crowley’s keyword is “Futility.”  The Seven of Swords (Moon, feelings and emotions, illusion, imagination, in Aquarius, “I know,” friendships, cause-oriented, the group, aloofness) in an upright position tells of the effort to maintain things as we want them, often through the use of deception and without considering the wants or needs of others.  Thankfully, this one is reversed, so if I maintain a positive attitude today, I might be able to extricate myself from a problem situation without creating enemies.

My Legacy card is The Chariot reversed, flavored by The Wheel.  The Chariot, which corresponds with Water (cold/binds and wet/adapts, and sensitive, emotional and imaginative energy that likes to stay the same or follow the same course), Cancer (“I feel,” sensitive, tenacious, nurturing, moody), Cheth (the fence), and the Path between Geburah (the place where forms and structure are challenged or affirmed) and Binah (female receptive energy and the origin of form and structure), tells of having the control necessary to focus on goals, and to avoid distractions. My Chariot is reversed, and perhaps I am forgetting that my attitudes have more of an effect on a situation than I realize.  If I keep control of my attitudes, I might get to where I want to be by the end of the day.  The Wheel of Fortune (Fire (hot/separates and dry/shapes, and spontaneous, impulsive and energetic change), Jupiter (expansiveness and growth, justice, fortune), Kaph (grasping hand), and the Path between Netzach (the stimulating factors of emotion and inspiration) and Chesed (the place where forms and structure are stabilized and nurtured)) tells of sudden movement, but not movement caused by us or controlled by us.  This is actually encouraging news to me today; I have no control of what happens to me, only of how I choose to respond to what happens to me today.  My Wheel is flavoring my Chariot, which just might enable me to remember to keep optimistic no matter what happens. 

My 6-digit date number is9, the number that tells of the completeness of manifestation or effect. 

My horoscopes: “There may be doubt about the outcome of a project that means a lot to you. It may involve financial problems or lack the support from others that you require in order to complete it. Your doubts are most likely groundless, Sagittarius, but it doesn't hurt to hedge your bets a little and seek what you need elsewhere. This is likely to be a temporary delay. All signs indicate success.”

And: “The key for you today is follow-through. You may have one hundred different projects lying around your house and not one of them is finished. Perhaps you are too busy going off on adventures to really settle down and commit to something for an extended period of time. This sort of attitude is apt to be a reflection of emotional issues you are dealing with as well. Attend to unfinished business.

My Shadowscapes Insight is regarding the Nine of Pentacles.  The balance of material well-being and refinement with the warmth and joy that comes with being self-sufficient.  Solitude is the best way to enjoy this reward for hard work!

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9/22/13


Transparent Oracle Sunday!

44, Moon (Above). The direction of Above takes us up and out of the four traditional elements of Air, Fire, Water and Earth, and reminds us that we are but a small part of the Cosmos.  Above also reminds us that while the Machinery of the Universe is huge, it does have an effect on each of us, and each of us is an important part of the workings of that Machinery.  The Moon is a card of cycles and tides, and of mystery, the subconscious, and fantasy.  All are useful tools and effects, except when taken to extremes.  The Moon also represents the Sacred Feminine, and inner, passive and receptive energies. 

16, Guide: Snake (South). South is the direction of the midday sun and the peak of power and illumination; this direction is associated with passionate drive and creativity.  Snake has powerful symbolism in our world; it is seen to represent many medical/healing modalities, and the Kundalini energy.  Snake corresponds with the dragon, and is seen as a mundane representation of that mythical beast.  Because Snake can shed its skin and appear renewed, it is associated with healing, fertility, regeneration and rebirth.  Snake can access places that would be out of reach for most of us, and so Snake can share both knowledge and wisdom.  However, the knowledge and wisdom owned and shared by Snake is neutral, and we need to be careful what we choose to do with what we learn.  Eve learned that lesson in the Garden of Eden.

49, Saturn (Above). The direction of Above takes us up and out of the four traditional elements of Air, Fire, Water and Earth, and reminds us that we are but a small part of the Cosmos.  Above also reminds us that while the Machinery of the Universe is huge, it does have an effect on each of us, and each of us is an important part of the workings of that Machinery.  The planet Saturn is about structure and boundaries, and about constricting energies within a particular format, often involving time. 

Interesting mandala once again.  Mystery, the ability to access places that most would seem out of reach, and the benefits of structure and boundaries, and a long-term plan.  The Snakes are fused with the crescent phases of the Moon, while Saturn is corralling everything.  Somehow my instincts say that the Snakes are the important part of this mandala, and I am being told that both the concept of a dragon, and the concepts of renewal, regeneration, and unusual access abilities, are of importance to me now.  Perhaps I am being told to watch for unusual events or opportunities.  Now, I need to figure out if Saturn is an obstacle or a support.  Only time will tell. 

I was in a fog yesterday as I did not get much sleep Saturday night.  Thus, this post did not go up until this morning.  Can’t make sense of a spread when the brain is asleep!

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Friday, September 20, 2013

8/20/13


King of Wands/Two of Cups.  Niiice!! The King of Wands (cusp of Cancer, “I feel,” sensitive, nurturing, moody, and Leo, “I am,” passionate, dramatic egotistical) is honest and open hearted, and rules his realm through the advantageous use of his creative impulses.  He knows how to tame enthusiasm, like a wild stallion, so that not only can he get the best results, but also so he can show others how to succeed as well. The Two of Cups (Venus, beauty, allure, relationships, in Cancer, “I feel,” sensitive, family and home oriented, tenacious, moody) tells of about love and connections, usually having to do with feelings, relationships and commonalities.  These things will all seem to go my way today, and the emotions will help my King of Wands to tame that wild stallion!

My Thoth card is the Four of Cups.  “Luxury” is the keyword for this one. The Four of Cups (the Moon, feelings and emotions, illusion, imagination, in Cancer, “I feel,” sensitive, nurturing, tenacious, moody) tells us that too much pleasure, or maybe too much nurturing or overprotectiveness, deadens the senses.  Crowley sees this one as presenting a danger: purity becoming lost in the distracting clouds of satisfaction.  This is a danger today, and I need to enjoy, but also keep a small part of myself on the task at hand.

My Legacy card is the Eight of Swords reversed, flavored by the Queen of Swords. The Eight of Swords (Jupiter, expansiveness and growth, justice, fortune, in Gemini, “I think,” curious, sociable talkative, dual) in an upright position tells of a confused and restrictive response to obstacles, or maybe perceived obstacles.  My Eight of Swords is reversed, and interestingly enough is being flavored by another Swords card, the Queen of Swords.  The Queen of Swords (cusp of Virgo, “I serve,” practical, sensible, work and service oriented, and Libra, “We are,” partnerships, balance, cooperation, grace) can be considered a Minor Arcana representation of the Justice card, which is about responsibility and the relationship between “cause” and “effect.”  This Queen knows of joy and she knows of sorrow, and she is well able to balance good and evil in her life, and choose the response that is appropriate to the occasion.  Perhaps she is just what I need to escape from the trap of the Eight of Swords, for she reminds me that thoughts stay in the mind, and the only way they can affect our outside world is if we allow them to do so.  My Queen’s confidence and ability to effectively judge a situation should help to end the stalemate of the Eight of Swords, which in a reversed position is already starting to tumble.

My 6-digit date number is 5, the number that tells of motion which dispels stagnation.

My horoscopes: “You're energetic and enthusiastic today, Sagittarius, and those around you respond favorably. It seems everyone wants to be in your orbit. Work at home and the office goes quickly and smoothly. Because you have so much energy, why not take on a new project? Normally this would send you over the edge, but today you feel you could take on anything. Go for it.

And: “If you feel like staying in bed today with the blanket pulled up tight, why not do so. No one will begrudge you a little time to yourself. You may need some time to lick your wounds if you've recently had a fight with someone close to you. You may see this argument as a step backward into your old habits, but do not be so hard on yourself. Forgive yourself, and perhaps the other person as well, and move on.

My Shadowscapes Insight is regarding the Queen of Pentacles.  Another Queen.  This one is always there, ready, willing and able to support others, to heal others, to feed others, and to bring them ease.  She knows that if she offers love, unconditional love, to those around her, that is what she will attract to herself.

Yesterday, I led both of the Sacred Mists Esbats; I love leading Esbats!  Because I direct the program that presents them, I don’t get to lead them very often.  My purpose as Esbat Program Director is to encourage others to experience leading a ritual, not to hog them all myself.  But occasionally, someone signs up for an Esbat and then can’t do it, and if the ritual has not been written yet, I get to write it, and lead it. 

What a lovely mindset to have on this day, the Sabbat of Mabon, the Second Harvest.  I will end up missing both Sabbats today, but I will have my time on the Parkway, to meditate and connect to the energies of this day.

I am blessed, rich with gifts that cannot be bought with any coin.

Mabon Blessings!

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Wednesday, September 18, 2013

9/8/13


The Lovers/Eight of Cups.  Hmmm . . . looks like today’s theme is choices.  The Lovers (Air, hot/separates and wet/adapts, quick and animated, intellectual, problems or challenges; Gemini, “I think,” curious, talkative, sociable, dual; Zayin, double-edged sword; and the Path between Tiphareth, the hub of the creation process where energies harmonize and focus to illuminate and clarify, and Binah, female receptive energy and the origin of form and structure) tells of duality, union, and personal choices.  This card is about love, but it is also about our personal values and how they affect our choices, and the promises we make to others.  We need to feel good about ourselves, but we also need to feel good about those that we love, and the promises we make to them.  The Eight of Cups (Saturn, discipline, responsibility, limitation, law and order, in Pisces, “I believe,” feeling, duality, suffering, soul growth) tells of an ending or a decline or a change of direction, often one associated with emotions, and it offers one possible response to that decline or change: moving on.   This ends up being the only realistic choice when all else appears doomed to failure.

My Thoth card is the Three of Swords reversed.  **Whew**  “Sorrow” is Crowley’s keyword for this one.  The Three of Swords (Saturn, discipline, responsibility, limitations and resistance, in Libra, “We are,” partnerships, balance, cooperation) in an upright position usually indicates the possibility that logic, rationalizing and the intellect could end up causing harm if they are not used with balance and compassion. Thankfully my card is reversed today, so I will be able to own any discomforts, and deal with them in a balanced and effective way.  No guaranty of smooth sailing, but I will reach the destination.

My Legacy card is The Devil reversed, flavored by the Two of Swords.  The Devil (Earth (cold/binds and dry/shapes, and stable, material, practical energies that are slow to change), Capricorn (“I build,” ambitious, competent, cautious, cunning), Ayin (the eye, senses), and the Path between Hod (which provides analysis and communication) and Tipareth (the hub of the creation process where energies harmonize and focus to illuminate and clarify) tells of being caught up in the physical world and the effects of the physical senses, to the point of being bound or addicted to those things. The Devil is not always a card of addiction; at times it just indicates that the call of the wild and primal world of Nature may be a distraction.  My Devil is reversed today, and being flavored by the Two of Swords.  The Two of Swords (Moon, feelings and emotions, illusion, imagination, in Libra, “We are,” partnerships, balance, cooperation) represents a time of not looking or of shutting out the world.  The serenity of this card happens because we are vigilant and on guard, and because we choose to not receive or acknowledge as valid the information that comes to us from the outside.  Perhaps the influence of the Two of Swords is what is keeping my Devil in a reversed position; distracting myself from the draw of physical world pleasures could break the bonds.

My 6-digit date number is 4, the number that tells of depth and stability.

My horoscopes: “Do you sometimes go about things backward, Sagittarius? Are you caught up in the rat race of trying to have more money and security with the idea that eventually you'll earn the freedom to do what makes you happy? The happiness factor actually works in reverse. You must first be who you are and then take the necessary actions in order to have what you really want.”

And: “Your imagination is soaring today. Now that you've finally acknowledged your interest in mystical and metaphysical matters, you can't seem to get enough information. You've bought out the New Age bookstores, yet still you're hungry for more. Travel might be in your future, so you can experience some of the world's holy places first hand.”

My Shadowscapes Insight is regarding the King of Pentacles. Where’ve you been, my friend?  I haven’t seen this one in a bit.  The King of Pentacles.  The expert at managing resources so everyone benefits.  That is who I am today.

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Tuesday, September 17, 2013

9/17/13


Page of Cups/Knight of Cups. The Page of Cups corresponds to Libra (“we are,” partnerships, balance, cooperation), Scorpio (“I desire,” intensity compulsion, mystery) and Sagittarius (“I seek,” philosophic, adventurous, blundering); is a card of soft and tender energies and of getting fulfillment through connections to others, and through innocent and simple joys.  The Page of Cups is imaginative and playful, and eager to serve, and she is telling me that helping others and nurturing others is another way to nurture myself. The Knight of Cups (cusp of Aquarius, “I know,” friendships, the group, cause-oriented, and Pisces, “I believe,” feelings, duality, suffering, soul growth) is about feeling things strongly and without restraint or grounding.  Often, this Knight appears calm but actually there can be turmoil within him.  He thrives on strong emotions and fantasies and dreams, loves those Aha! Moments, and can empathize with others.

My Thoth card is the Princess of Cups.  Ditto!!  Crowley sees this card as representing dreams and fantasies, and he sees this Princess as representing a more immature version of the Queen of Cups.  While the Queen can work with both the emotions and the intellect, the Princess may not always be able to do so.  This Princess is gracious and intuitive and loving, but she can also be unstable, or unable to control her emotions. 

My Legacy card is the Page of Wands reversed, flavored by The Moon.  More Water! The Page of Wands (Cancer, “I feel,” sensitive, tenacious, nurturing, moody; Leo, “I am,” passionate, dramatic noble egotistical; and Virgo, “I serve,” practical, analytical, work and service oriented) is a fun guy to be around, unless you have a migraine.  If he was upright, he would be telling me that enthusiasm and originality are the things to strive for today.  Because he is reversed, the unpredictable nature of the element of Fire may be more of a challenge than a catalyst for creativity. The Moon of the Tarot Major Arcana corresponds with Water (cold/binds and wet/adapts, emotional and sensitive energy that strives to stay the same), Pisces (“I believe,” feeling, suffering, soul growth, duality), Qof (the back of the head), and the Path between Malkuth (the physical world of action and physical, outer reality) and Netzach (the stimulating factors of emotion and inspiration), is about feelings and emotions and instincts and the subconscious.  My Moon is reversed, and it could be presenting discomforts, deceptions or disillusions.

My 6-digit date number is 3, the new creation out of the position and potential of the Ace, and the balance, polarity, and energy of “distance between” of the number 2.

My horoscopes: “Stop planning and start doing. There may be pressure to leave your normal routine and do something on a whim, Sagittarius. Although this may not be your usual way to do things, it certainly isn't a reason not to. Let your mind explore new realms. Feel free to pick up loose pieces of an old dream that you left hanging in midair. Rekindle your passion for life.”

And: “If dramatic changes have not already occurred in your household, they likely will today. You could be moving out, or someone important may be moving in. What is clear is that you have resolved an outstanding argument with your mate. Wrenching as the disagreement was, all is forgotten in the joy of your reunion. Spend an intimate evening together to cement your new bond.”

My Shadowscapes Insight is regarding the Five of Cups.  This one tells of focusing on sadness, getting almost sensual pleasure from its manifestation, to the point of distraction.  While we may feel that all is not well, in actuality things may not be as bad as they seem, and we may not be as alone as we think we are. 

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Monday, September 16, 2013

9/16/13


Eight of Cups reversed/Three of Wands reversed. The Eight of Cups (Saturn, discipline, responsibility, limitation, law and order, in Pisces, “I believe,” feeling, duality, suffering, soul growth) in an upright position tells of an ending or a decline or a change of direction, often one associated with emotions, and it offers one possible response to that decline or change: moving on. My Eight of Cups is reversed, and re-evaluation may not be my strength today. The Three of Wands (Sun, the inner core of a person or situation, the deepest self and personal power, in Aries, “I want,” action oriented, pioneering, assertive) in an upright position is a card of planning ahead that tells of the excitement that comes with good possibilities at hand.  This one is also reversed, and they both have the concept of action in common, so today may be a good day for treading water.

My Thoth card is the Nine of Pentacles.  “Gain” is Uncle Al’s keyword for this one. The Nine of Disks (Venus, beauty, allure, relationships, in Virgo, “I serve,” practical, analytical, work and service oriented) in an upright position tells of accomplishment through the imposition of discipline.  Perhaps this card is not as active as the other two above, but it still implies the imposition of discipline onto a situation, and perhaps that is enough action for the day. 

My Legacy card is the Six of Swords, flavored by Justice reversed. The Six of Swords (Mercury, reason, intelligence, education, communication, in Aquarius, “I know,” friendships, the group, cause oriented) in an upright position is about balance, healing, moving towards a better place, and even about learning the science behind things that work (because understanding why they work makes them more effective).  This also allows us to extricate ourselves from unhealthy situations.  Yes, I am beginning to see a pattern here.  My Six of Swords is being flavored by Justice reversed. Justice is a card of adjustment, and it corresponds with the element of Air (hot/separates and wet/adapts, and quick, animated energy that usually brings problems or challenges that bring growth), Libra (“we are,” partnerships, balance, cooperation), Lamed (ox goad; training or teaching), and the Path between Tiphareth (the hub of the creation process where energies harmonize and focus to illuminate and clarify) and Geburah (the place where forms and structures are challenged or affirmed).  My card is reversed, and it hints at a danger of misjudging, or of allowing prejudice to cloud judgment.  I may be a bit sensitive today, but overall the energies are flowing toward recovery. 

My 6-digit date number is 2, the number of balance, polarity, and the energy of “distance between.”

My horoscopes: “Try not to be harsh and judgmental today, Sagittarius. You don't understand others' perspectives and the codes they live by. Differences are no reason to find fault with people. You have a powerful personality that's perceptive and creative. Use these gifts in a positive, healthy manner instead of using them to get down on others and their behavior

And: “You have been caught up in a social whirlwind lately, and today you are happy to stay home by yourself and unwind. You might want to get out pen and paper and record some of the incidents of the past few days. It could be that you've gained new insight or understanding into a particular problem. Some quiet time spent analyzing the situation could yield some interesting solutions.

My Shadowscapes Insight is regarding the Knight of Pentacles.  The Knight of Pentacles takes the focus of the Nine and turns it into a crusade.  His vision is narrow, but that means he is not easily distracted from his task.  Is that the way to go today?  Knowing exactly what we want and striving with determination to attain it is not a bad thing, but taken to extremes, it could cause me to miss something important.  Balance!!

Ugh, what a day.  I actually was ready to leave a bit early this morning, and then went out to start my car.  LOL, that is where the trouble began.  I ended up driving home at about 50 mph, all 160 miles of the trip, because of a car issue.  Now I cross my fingers and hope it isn’t anything too huge.  I am tired; four hours plus of waiting for the car to die does that to ya.  But my car held up, thankfully, and fer sher it could have been much worse.

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Sunday, September 15, 2013

9/15/13


Transparent Oracle Sunday!!

3, Element: Air (East).  East is the direction of the rising sun, and thus of new beginnings and fresh ideas, as well as knowledge, intellectual ideas and thoughts.  The element of Air represents the purest of clear thought, logic, and the ability to analyze.  Air is also connected with knowledge, education, science, and inspiration or a new way of thinking about things.

41, Gateway: The Celestial Realm (Above). The direction of Above takes us up and out of the four traditional elements of Air, Fire, Water and Earth, and reminds us that we are but a small part of the Cosmos.  Above also reminds us that while the Machinery of the Universe is huge, it does have an effect on each of us, and each of us is an important part of the workings of that Machinery.  Both our solar system, and the vast reaches of space beyond, have an effect on us, and we need to acknowledge this effect and be aware of it.  While we should not allow only these effects to control our choices and actions, they are valid, and there can be higher meanings to seemingly mundane events at this time.  But if I don’t look up into the night sky, these events will happen without me knowing about them.

51, Gateway: The World Tree (Below). The World Tree is a powerful symbol in many cultures; in Wicca, the Tree is seen as representing the cast circle, and it is seen as a gateway to the Underworld.  The World Tree is about initiation of the most exciting kind; it tells of the ability to tap into the knowledge and wisdom that is a part of me through my ancestors, and it tells of the ability to connect with non-physical beings.

Wow.  Two Gateways, Above and Below.  Before I even stacked my cards to create my mandala, I am already being told, “Pay attention!”  This mandala looks like a secret sigil, and it is interesting how Air and the Celestial Realm Gateway are in and around the roots of The World Tree.  Our world, our physical world, seems to be the realm that is under foot, and indeed The World Tree is the Gateway to the realm of Below.  But in this mandala, things are reversed, and it is the Gateway to The Celestial Realm that appears to be the core support.  Obviously, I am being told today that many things are having an affect on the way I live my life, and on the choices I make as I live my life.  It looks like I could be at a crossroad of some kind, and no matter which direction I choose, there are opportunities for me to learn and grow.  Cool!!

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