Sunday, March 30, 2014

3/30/14

Transparent Oracle Sunday!

51, Gateway: The World Tree (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 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.

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.

38, Guide: Owl (North).   North is the direction of Earth, and thus of the physical or physically formed or manifested world, and of nurturing, health, finances and security, and the wisdom associated with living simply, being well-grounded, and being in touch with our physical body.  Owl is a night hunter, and thus is very good at perceiving things, even in the dark.  Because Owl can fly silently, he is also associated with silence; dark silence can be uncomfortable for some.  Owl tends to be solitary, but this nature allows Owl to be objective and detached, and to gain much wisdom from life experiences.

I then stacked my cards and created my mandala.  It is obvious at first glance that Snake and Owl are interacting with each other, with The World Tree acting as the “platform” for this interaction.  It is interesting that my Underworld Animal Guide is the horned owl.  It is also interesting that along with the representation of “as above, so below” we also have a South card and a North card in this throw.  The connections through knowledge, wisdom, and advice from those who came before me, is being made through healing, renewal and regeneration, and through a solitary embrace of the dark, my own body, and the simple life, are quite important to me right now.  That is a powerful message!

$>

Friday, March 28, 2014

3/28/14

King of Cups reversed/Seven of Swords.  The King of Cups (cusp of Libra, “We are,” partnerships, balance, cooperation, and Scorpio, “I desire,” intense, controlling mysterious, obsessive) is the expert on emotions and the subconscious, mainly because of his life experiences.  When upright, he is able to be calm, caring and diplomatic, and still get things done by getting others working together in a productive way.  Because he is reversed today, I may find that I am more concerned about my own feelings than the feelings of those around me.  The Seven of Swords (Moon, feelings and emotions, illusion, imagination, in Aquarius, “I know,” friendships, cause-oriented, the group, aloofness) 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.  I kind of get the feeling that I had better be conscious of the needs of others, because I might end up causing pain to someone important to me through attempting to stay to my own plan. 

My Thoth cards are The Moon and the Ten of Cups (“Satiety”) reversed.  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.  This card tells of falsehood and illusion and the Dark Night of Soul, and about magick and mystery.  Things won’t end up as they seem on the surface, and I need to keep that in mind.  Visions and dreams could be quite transformative, but they probably should remain private in order to prevent misunderstandings.  The Ten of Cups (Mars, action, spontaneity, aggression, drive, in Pisces, “I believe,” feeling, duality, spirituality, suffering and growth) in an upright position offers the manifestation of happiness, simple joys, and fulfillment. The number Ten is about the completion of a cycle or manifestation, and the suit of Cups is about emotions, feelings and the inner self, so this card in an upright position tells of the manifestation of all the Cups cards before it.  However, my Ten is reversed and My own happiness might not be the important focus of the day.  Yes, it may seem important on the surface, but that Moon card is warning me that even if I do look more carefully, what I see may not be real.

My Legacy card is The Wheel, flavored by the Nine of Coins.  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.  My Wheel is being flavored by the Nine of Coins today.  The Nine of Coins (Venus, beauty, allure, relationships, in Virgo, “I serve,” practical, analytical, work and service oriented) tells of accomplishment through the imposition of discipline.  And this all makes sense, particularly when taken along with the other cards today.  Events will happen as they will, and while I might not be able to change those events, I certainly can control my own responses to those events.  It seems that my responses are particularly important today, and I need to use every skill and talent I have to make certain my responses are balanced and fair to everyone involved, if I don’t want to end up hurting someone. 

My 6-digit date number is 9, the completeness of manifestation or effect. 

My horoscopes: “Today you could realize that a friend is actually your soul mate, Sagittarius. You've been spending a lot of time together attending social events, and you've come to realize how much you look forward to each other's company. Your new level of affection seems obvious, but it would be a good idea to put it into words. If you can't screw up the courage to do so, express your thoughts with a gift.”

And: “Your intuition, physical and intellectual energy, and insight are at an all-time high today. You'll probably want to spend much of the day alone, reflecting on your ideas and deciding how you want to put them to work for you. At some point you may want to memorialize your thoughts in writing. You could also find yourself tuning in more strongly than usual to the thoughts and feelings of others.”

It’s going to be a rainy weekend, but I’m spending the time at the Blue Moon House with a Yoga friend, and we will have an awesome weekend, no matter what!  Lots of walks, lots of Yoga, and maybe even a martini or two!

Happy Solar Return to my dear son, Brian.  He turns 35 today; am I really old enough to have a 35 year old child?!

$>

Thursday, March 27, 2014

3/27/14

Six of Wands reversed/Six of Cups reversed.  Hmmm . . .  two reversed Sixes. 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. Since my card is reversed, the results may not be clear or conclusive.  Doesn’t mean the results are bad, just that we can’t see them yet. The Six of Cups (Sun, the inner core of a person or situation in Scorpio, “I desire,” intense, compulsive, deep, obsessive) in an upright position is a card of innocence, emotional balance and harmony, of simple joy that begets even more simple joy by infecting all that is around us at this moment.  Because my Six of Cups is also reversed, I just might find that I can’t connect with the past.  Perhaps it is time to look forward instead of behind me, and then the results might be more clear.

My Thoth cards are the Three of Wands (“Virtue”) and the Nine of Swords (“Cruelty”). 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.  Crowley sees this card as representing Will and dominion, the establishment of a primal energy.  Cool! The Nine of Swords (Mars, action, spontaneity, aggression, in Gemini, “I think,” curious, talkative, social, dual) represents brooding and worrying, usually self-caused, and usually unproductive.  Often the worrying attached to this card is connected to insecurity or suspicion, or it is connected to things that are over and done with, and thus unchangable.  Crowley calls this card the “agony of the mind,” and it is interesting that we have an optimistic card and a pessimistic card here.  Is this a call and response?  Or am I being offered a choice, and an indication that my response to any situation today is important?

My Legacy card is the Ace of Coins, flavored by the Three of Swords reversed. The Ace of Coins (Aries, “I want,” action oriented, assertive, competitive, Taurus, “I have,” sensual, cautious, stubborn, and Gemini, “I think,” curious, talkative, dual, social) tells of the presence of potential that is connected in some way to the physical world.  This card represents the seed of something that could be great, but it is potential only, not yet manifested.  My Ace of Coins is being flavored by the reversed (whew!) Three of Swords.  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.  But since my Three of Swords is reversed, I just might be able to overcome this possibility, or at least minimize it.  More optimism to manifest that Ace of Coins.  Yes!

My 6-digit date number is 8, the number that tells of the conscious response to the approach of degeneration that is the number 7, in order to maintain for a bit longer the balance of the number 6. 

My horoscopes: “Assessment of others' ideas may be a main focus today, Sagittarius. Group activities could require your intellectual input. A friend could come to you with an idea for a project of some kind. Writing or speaking may be involved in some way. Your friend isn't in a very practical frame of mind, so don't be surprised if the ideas don't seem very workable right now. Don't be discouraging, however. Your friend may surprise you!”

And: “If you've been thinking about starting a new business partnership, this is the day to take some positive action toward that end. Any new business enterprises started today, particularly where partnerships are involved, show a lot of promise for success. This might make a profound difference in the course of your life, so make sure you allow for as many possible contingencies as you can. Go for the gold, and enjoy the adventure!”

Boy, did I have a busy day today, filled with Yoga.  I did my own Yin practice this morning, then went to visit a friend who had broken her ankle in early January.  She had just transitioned from a cast to a boot, and wanted some chair Yoga.  Then, I attended a Hatha Yoga class followed by a Gentle Yoga class.  I’m tired, but tomorrow is Friday!

$>

Wednesday, March 26, 2014

3/26/14

Five of Swords/Six of Swords reversed. 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. This card could be telling of what seems to be overwhelming opposition, or being made to suffer the sins of others.  Hopefully, forewarned is forearmed.  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). My card is reversed, and it could be telling of some frustration, or some snag that prevents me from moving forward.  These two cards together are telling me that if I am careful today, perhaps tomorrow things will be better.

My Thoth cards are The Sun and Aeon/Judgement.  Wow. The Sun corresponds with Fire (hot/separates and dry/shapes, spontaneous, impulsive and energetic change), our Sun (the inner core of a person or situation), Resh (the face; reason), and the Path between Yesod (the place where patterns and images emerge that may manifest in the physical world) and Hod (provides analysis and communication), and it tells of a time of enlightenment and peace that comes after the completion of some ordeal.  Glory and triumph and success are all foretold by this card, but not with permanence, so I should enjoy the moment. Judgement corresponds with Fire (hot/separates and dry/shapes, and spontaneous, impulsive and energetic change), Pluto (power, metamorphosis, cycles of dying and becoming), Shin (fang), and the Path between Malkuth (the physical world of action and physical, outer reality) and Hod (provides analysis and communication) and represents an opportunity to tally up and pay the bill so we can have a fresh start.  Crowley calls this car Aeon, and sees it as representing a final step that ends an issue of the past and at the same time brings us forward.  Powerful pair.

My Legacy card is the Nine of Cups, flavored by the Six of Swords reversed again. 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 card is about fulfillmet and good times, and perhaps getting what we wished for.  Interesting that this card, which is about the granting of wishes, shows up along with the Five of Swords, which is about demanding to receive what we want.  Two sides of the same coin, eh?  My Nine of Cups is being flavored by another reversed Six of Swords.  Again I am being told of possible frustration or changes in plans that I can’t control.  And again, I am being offered a possible response, a more passive one (and a more optimistic one) than the first pair.

My 6-digit date number is 7, the number that tells of the pause that occurs when growth slows and stagnation approaches, usually requiring a choice of some kind. 

My horoscopes: “Career matters may be put on hold today, as important communications you're expecting fail to come on time, Sagittarius. As you're anxious to conclude the matters involved, you could make yourself crazy with frustration. Don't do this. Find something else to do while you're waiting and the time will pass more quickly. You'll get something done besides. Your primary concern will be resolved, just not when you'd hoped. Be patient!

And: “Attempt to contact others in different states or foreign countries today could go awry, as technological marvels that we tend to take for granted such as telephones and the Internet could go awry, perhaps due to solar flares. There isn't much point in making yourself crazy, as this is beyond human control. The only thing you can do is wait! In the meantime, do something else that you love to do

$>

Monday, March 24, 2014

3/24/14

Nine of Wands/Ace of Wands reversed. The Nine of Wands (Moon, feelings and emotions, illusion, imagination, in Sagittarius, “I seek,” philosophic, fun-loving, adventurous, blundering) tells us that the final challenge approaches, and we need to ready ourselves so we can guard our assets.  This card also tells of order and control, and it reminds me that I must be on my guard. The Ace of Wands (Leo, “I am,” passionate, dramatic, egotistical, Virgo, “I serve,” practical, analytical, sensible, orderly) tells of the initial emanation of enthusiasm or inspiration that could very well energize an entire process or project.  Because my Ace is reversed, I need to guard against biting off more than I can chew.  I also need to remember that at least for today, I won’t be real good at plugging into my creative potential.

My Thoth cards are the Five of Cups (“Disappointment”) reversed and the Ten of Wands (“Ruin”) reversed. The Five of Cups (Mars, action, aggression, drive, in Scorpio, “I desire,” intense, controlling, mysterious, obsessive) in an upright position tells of an emotional setback or disappointment, or perhaps the belief that a wrong choice has been made.  This could be an energy drain, or it could just be crying over spilled milk; Uncle Al sees this card as representing the disturbance of the pleasures of the Four of Cups, which is unpleasant (but could end up being invigorating). The Ten of Wands (Saturn, discipline, responsibility, limitations and resistance, in Sagittarius, “I seek,” philosophic, fun-loving, blundering) tells of being taxed to some perceived limit, or of feeling as if we are out of gas at the bottom of a hill.

My Legacy card is Faith (The Hierophant), flavored by The Chariot. Faith/The Hierophant corresponds with Earth (cold/binds and dry/shapes), Taurus (“I have,” sensual, cautious, stubborn), Vau (the nail which holds tradition in place), and the Path between Chesed (the place where forms and structures are stabilized and nurtured), and Chokmah (dynamic male energy, the origin of vital force and polarity).  This card is an archetype of Spirit (with The Emperor as archetype of the Sacred Masculine, The Empress as archetype of the Sacred Feminine, and all three representing the supernal triad) that reminds us of the value of tradition, ritual and ceremony, and conforming to the rules and traditions with the aim of presenting the highest good of the group.  My Faith card is being flavored by The Chariot. 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.  Both of these cards tell of focus, one on tradidtions and rituals, and the other on goals.  One is about physical world focuses,a nd the other is about feelings and emotions.  Interesting. 

My 6-digit date number is 5, the number that tells of motion that stirs up stability in order to prevent stagnation. 

My horoscopes: “New discoveries that capture your imagination could find you spending most of your day sequestered in your home and learning as much as you can. All indications are that you aren't going to want to do much else, Sagittarius, but it's important to remember to take breaks and get a little exercise throughout the day. Moving the body and shaking out the kinks in your muscles can get your mind going as well.

And: “A legal matter, perhaps the establishment of a new business partnership, could require a lot of paperwork today. It might be really tedious trying to make sense of all the jargon involved, but it's important to you, so you're likely to be more persistent than usual. Someone more familiar with these matters may explain the ins and outs to you. This is likely to be a very fortunate development for you, so don't lose heart. Hang in there!

$>

Sunday, March 23, 2014

3/23/14

Transparent Oracle Sunday!

35, Landscape: Forest (North). North is the direction of Earth, and thus of the physical or physically formed or manifested world, and of nurturing, health, finances and security, and the wisdom associated with living simply, being well-grounded, and being in touch with our physical body.  Forest is about the results over the long term, results which happen because of fertility and nurturing and patience; Forest represents the manifestation of age and wisdom and patience, connections (and results) that are not openly apparent but rather, like roots under the ground, are all around us.  Different energies can work together; a Forest is proof of that.

67, Empathy (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. Empathy is about receptivity, sensitivity, and shared emotions or experiences.  This is not a detached understanding of another, but rather it is about being able to communicate without words, without conscious understanding, as if we ourselves are experiencing the feelings of another being. 

20, Elemental: Salamander (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.  Salamander is also intense in personality, but this one is about consumption of fuel, and the changes and transformations that happen through consumption of fuel.  The changes presented by Salamander are more transmutation than transformation or metamorphosis.  Salamanders are actually known for putting out fires!  This is because they consume all fuel and then the flames themselves.  They are true experts, and know just how to handle Fire and its tricky nature.

I then stacked my cards and created my mandala.  This one is incredibly powerful!  The intensities of Salamander are emanating from the hearts within Empathy, not only creating the central point of the Landscape of Forest, but also supporting the lobes of the shape of the Forest card, and also being contained by the wisdom and patence and long-term outlook of the Forest card.  I am also being reminded here that the maintenance of a Forest takes the combined efforts of many entities over a long period of time.  Physical connections empathic connections are needed here, and when combined with the transformative powers of the element of Fire, I can make use of the natural energies around me.  Those natural energies may seem chaotic, but they do have their own patterns.  I am also being reminded that I have the perfect tool that will allow me to connect with those natura energies: my breath.  Pranayama, anyone??

This weekend and next weekend are busy ones for me, smack dab in the middle of several very transformative weeks.  I am being reminded by my Transparent Oracle spread that even uncomfortable changes offer great possibilities.  If nothing else, the chaos can scour clean the lenses through which I perceive my world. 

I went for a walk at Point Park yesterday.  It is still winter along the trails, and there is a beauty to be found in the stark stillness of the grays and browns in the meadows and forests.  I am actually enjoying these last weeks of stillness, because I sense that once Spring begins to manifest, everything will awaken all at once.  And that awakening is coming!  Yesterday three crocus blossoms opened in my garden!  My neighbors have narcissus in their gardens, and the little daffodils are out, thumbing their noses at the snow predicted for Tuesday. 

There is a pair of cardinals building a nest in the cypress trees in my yard.  I’m really enjoying the hustle and bustle as the pair build their nest.  There is nothing more beautiful in late Winter than a pair of cardinals sitting on the lefless branch of a tree.

Aaaand, I woke up to my first “attack of the beach ants”!  Now I KNOW Spring can’t be far away!

$>

Thursday, March 20, 2014

3/20/14

Six of Wands/Two of Cups. The Six of Wands (Jupiter, expansiveness and growth, justice, fortune, in Leo, “I am,” passionate, dramatic, noble, authoritative) expresses the celebration we feel when we have passed some test or successfully met a challenge. I am being told I should feel satisfied because I am in good standing with the powers that be.  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, and a recognition or acknowledgement that a bond is beginning to happen, or is beginning to be restored after forgiveness is offered and received. The Llewellyn Welsh Two of Cups image contains the traditional Caduceus of Hermes (the Messenger of the Greek Gods, guide of the dead and protector of merchants, gamblers, liars and thieves), with a lion (representing strength, courage, authority over the subconscious, sound judgment and prudence) between the wings at the top.  The Caduceus of Hermes or Staff of Hermes shows a staff being climbed by two serpents (representing peace, rebirth, restoration and regeneration) entwined in the form of a double helix, and sometimes surmounted by wings.  The Roman version of Hermes is Mercury, and so the Caduceus of Hermes can be used to represent both the planet Mercury, and the elemental metal of the same name; thus, the Two of Cups is connected to alchemy.

My Thoth cards are the Knight of Wands and the Six of Disks (“Success”).  Ooooh, niiice. In the Thoth Tarot, the Knights equal the rank of King.  The Knight/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 is admired by all and is able to assert authority without alienating others, but he can still be impulsive.  Crowley sees this Knight as being both fierce and generous, but also unpredictable.  However, being paired with the Six of Disks, I don’t think this will be an issue today.  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.  My Knight/King should make the best of even a temporary balance.

My Legacy card is the Two of Cups (again!) and the Ace of Wands reversed.   The Two of Cups can be considere the Minor Arcana version of The Lovers, and it tells of entwining energies and friendships or alliances with emotional components. The Legacy card represente our reflection as seen in the eyes of our lover; a nice image.  My Legacy Two of Cups is also paired with a Wands card, the reversed Ace of Wands.  The Ace of Wands (Leo, “I am,” passionate, dramatic, egotistical, Virgo, “I serve,” practical, analytical, sensible, orderly) tells of the initial emanation of enthusiasm or inspiration that could very well energize an entire process or project.  Because my Ace is reversed, I need to guard against biting off more than I can chew.  Can’t overextend myself, and perhaps I need to remember that I don’t need to do it all on my own.  After all, the Two of Cups appeared twice in my throw today. 

My 6-digit date number is 10, the number that tells of the ending of a cycle, which reduces further to 1, the number of potential and position. 

My horoscopes: “Feel free to match your plaid pants with your paisley shirt today, Sagittarius. Accessorize with wild sneakers and a striped jacket. Let the oddball within you shine brightly! This is a terrific day for you, and you should feel free to express yourself openly and loudly to the world. You should experience a great deal of self-confidence. Take full advantage of it at this time.

And: “You may feel that you have to defend your motives today. And this can really put you off - especially if you can't see a reason for it. Try not to take it personally. Just because you know where you're coming from doesn't mean the other person does. It may simply be a communication problem. Work to clarify your position. If this doesn't suffice, it's not your problem anymore. The other person will have to look at their trust issues.

I feel pretty good about my card throw today, because it is validating my own thoughts.  This week and next week are a time of transitions for me.  Not only is today Ostara, the Spring Equinox and a day of balance, but my Yin Yoga substitution gig ended this past Tuesday, it looks like my Gentle Yoga substitution gig may end at the end of class this evening, and next Tuesday is my last belly dance class at Off the Beaten Path, which is closing as of April 1.  The majorityof my focus these past two months has been on these three endeavors, and by the end of March, they will all transform into something new. 

$>

Wednesday, March 19, 2014

3/19/14

Three of Pentacles/Ten of Pentacles reversed.  Three of Pentacles/The Magician reversed. The Three of Pentacles (Mars, action, spontaneity, aggression, drive, in Capricorn, “I build,” ambition, cunning, competence) tells of competence, planning and teamwork.  I am being reminded that the best reputation is the one earned by hard work.  There is money to be made here, but more important than money is personal satisfaction.  The Ten of Pentacles (Mercury, reason, intelligence, education, communication, in Virgo, “I serve,” practical, analytical, work and service oriented) represents physical world wealth and bounty, and the attempt to maintain the status quo.  This card in an upright position is about having the time to enjoy the fruits of our labors, but it is also about being aware of the connections we have in the physical world.  Because the Ten is reversed, there is not a sense of accomplishment today.  However, that Three of the same suit tells me that things might not be that bad. 

My Thoth cards are The Lovers and the Ace of Swords.  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.  The Lovers present the two halves that when united are greater than the sum of their parts.  Interestingly, it also could indicate a moment of doubt; sometimes doubt is the catalyst for choice. 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.  Interesting that this one is paired with The Lovers, for one goal of the suit of Swords is to know and understand our own mind.  This Ace certainly offers the power to analyze that is necessary in order to choose.

My Legacy card is the Two of Swords reversed, flavored by the Seven of Cups. 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 choose to not receive or acknowledge as valid the information that comes to us from the outside, or maybe because we choose to not listen at all, whether the information is valid or not. But my card is reversed, and thus perspective and impartiality won’t be easy for me today.  My reversed Two of Swords is being flavored by the Seven of Cups, and perhaps this is the reason for my ineffectiveness. The Seven of Cups (Venus, beauty, allure, relationships, in Scorpio, “I desire,” intense, controlling, obsessive, mysterious) represents the distraction, sensory overload and dissipation that can happen when we are presented with too many enticing choices.  There is a theme of choices throughout my cards today, as well as a flavor of doubt or distaction.  I’d better be careful!

My 6-digit date number is 9, the number of completeness of manifestation or effect. 

My horoscopes: “Practical abilities that you didn't know you possessed might suddenly appear today, Sagittarius. You could be working behind the scenes on a project of some kind, perhaps involving earning some extra money or raising funds for a worthy cause. Your intuition is operating at a high level, so don't be surprised if you tune in to the thoughts of others. Your imagination and inspiration are also on target. Make use of them!

And: “Today may be a good day for you to spend some time creating. While many Sagittarians are known for a love of sports, an innate artistic streak is common, as well. The joy of creating something is immeasurable, and the process of producing a finished product can be very enjoyable and therapeutic. Crafts, baking, cooking, and gardening are all activities conducive to this. Take time to express yourself through your favorite hobbies today.

$>

Tuesday, March 18, 2014

3/18/14

Eight of Wands/Three of Wands.  Wow, Fiery power today!  The Eight of Wands (Mercury, reason, intelligence, education, skill, communication, in Sagittarius, “I seek,” philosophic, fun-loving, adventurous, blundering) is a card of action, of quick developments, and of pulling it all together so things can be completed.  The energies of this card are fast and strong, and while the dust will surely fly, the end result will be balance . . . once that dust settles.  What I need to remember is that the eruption represented by this card has very little to do with the people in my life, and probably more to do with forces that can’t be controlled by people. 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.  I am being told that I need to take the long view; worrying about day-to-day events will not serve me today.

My Thoth cards are The Tower (eeep!) and the Four of Cups (“Luxury”).  Strange pair, that. The Tower (Fire (hot/separates and dry/shapes, and spontaneous, impulsive, energetic change), Mars (action, spontaneity, aggression, drive), Phe (mouth or speech), and the Path between Hod (which provides analysis and communication) and Netzach (which offers the stimulating factors of emotion and inspiration)) is one of the Major Arcana cards that talks of adjustments.  This one tells of a violent or explosive correction in the way things are going that usually happens after more gentle corrections don’t bring the needed result.  I do understand what this card is about, and it is interesting that it appeared today along with the Eight of Wands above. The Four of Cups (the Moon, feelings and emotions, illusion, imagination, in Cancer, “I feel,” sensitive, nurturing, tenacious, moody) reminds me of that too much pleasure, or maybe too much nurturing or overprotectiveness, deadens the senses. This is a card that describes what can happen when nothing goes wrong in our lives, and it is interesting that it is paired with The Tower.  I should probably remind myself that the violent adjustment of The Tower could serve many purposes, and could clear the way for new growth.

My Legacy card is the Nine of Swords, flavored by The Empress reversed. The Nine of Swords (Mars, action, spontaneity, aggression, in Gemini, “I think,” curious, talkative, social, dual) represents brooding and worrying, usually self-caused, and usually unproductive.  Often the worrying attached to this card is connected to insecurity or suspicion, or it is connected to things that are over and done with, and thus unchangable.  I do get this, I do understand the message here, particularly with the other cards presenting themselves today.  Change happens, and when that change is sourced from some thing or someone I can’t control, then I need to accept the change and respond appropriately.  My Nine of Swords is being flavored by the reversed Empress. The Empress (my significator card, 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. My Empress is reversed, and she is telling me that expansion will not be easy today.  Ya think??!!  Looks like a bit of discipline might be in order.

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

My horoscopes: “You should be feeling emotionally strong today, Sagittarius, although you could find that an idea runs through your head that asks you to slow down and take things once step at a time. The internal dialogue could drive you crazy if you aren't careful. The most important thing to do now is simply follow your heart. Do what you love to do, and associate with the people you love and respect the most.

And: “Welcome to another great day. The energy from the day's aspects is positive and encouraging when it comes to communication and interaction with others. So why not take advantage of this? Get together with friends and family to visit and enjoy yourself. Consider inviting people over for a game or dinner. Even a potluck can be a lot of fun. You work hard all the time, so play hard today!

$>

Sunday, March 16, 2014

3/16/14

Transparent Oracle Sunday!

60, Polarity: Red Dragon (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 Red Dragon’s energy begins within, and radiates outward with amazing power.  While the Red Dragon is in a sense about balance, it presents only one extreme for our consideration: inner power that expands outward.  This card is about passions and drive, and even the life essence itself, all of which begin within and then manifest outward.

57, Grail Hallows: The Sword (Below). The Grail Hallows present esoteric and hidden knowledge about the elements and the Tarot suit of Swords/Air.  The Sword stands for truth, authority, empowerment, nobility and destiny.  It may only be wielded by one who earns the right, and when this card appears, it tells of a higher calling that when responded to will bring the respondent into their true and destined spiritual power.

11, Gateway: Summer (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.  This Gateway is about warmth and bounty, abundance and blessing, passion and wealth.  Summer is a time of physical world manifestation and abundance, and it is also a time to bring magickal awarenesses into the open.  After all, with an abundance of manifestation into the physical world, this would be an easy time to sense non-physical world abundances as they often happen around physical manifestations.

I then stacked my cards and created my mandala.  This one is interesting.  Of course, the first thing I see is that Red Dragon, but there is another card present from the direction of Below, The Sword.  Both of these Below cards point toward inner energies that emanate outward, one with passion and drive, and one through the process of earning the knowledge I have received.  The point of The Sword is pointing toward the Red Dragon, as if it was grounded into the Dragon.  Surrounding The Sword is the Gateway of Summer, also associated with passion and drive.  Perhaps I am being told that I am in a period now of peak power or influence regarding energies that are sourced from within me and that emanate outward.  These energies are connected to some kind of ownership or authority that has been achieved through hard work and through the passing of some kind of verifying test. 

$>