Monday, September 29, 2014

9/29/14

Nine of Swords/Eight of Cups 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 unchangeable.  This card represents the “agony of the mind,” and the poison created by this agony can kill every positive opportunity that comes my way today.  I think perhaps forewarned is forearmed, and at least if I know this agony of the mind is a good possibility, I just might be able to react to challenges without losing it. **crosses fingers**.  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.  Walking away might not be that easy today because this one is reversed.  Can I hope that my Eight is reversed because my emotions will be good enough that I won’t want to walk away?  Sure!

My Thoth cards are The Hermit and The Magus.  Wow!!  Power to the people!!  I had both of these cards together and reversed almost two weeks ago; now they’re upright.  The Hermit corresponds with Earth (cold/binds and dry/shapes, and material, practical and stable energy that is slow to change), as well as Virgo (“I serve,” practical, analytical, work and service oriented, orderly), Yod (open hand, touch), and the Path between Tiphareth (the hub of the creation process where energies harmonize and focus to illuminate and clarify) and Chesed (the place where forms and structure are stabilized and nurtured), and is about searching within for a deeper meaning, often through solitude bordering on discomfort.  The Hermit tells us that in order to release the past and achieve something of value, the work must be done internally, usually involving solitude to the point of discomfort, and with an outward mantle of “business as usual.”  Like The High Priestess, he deals with hidden or not obvious knowledge, however The Hermit understands that his knowledge is insignificant when compared to what he does not know.  He also acknowledges that the maintenance of his solitude requires Will power.  The Magician corresponds with Air (hot/separates and wet/adapts, and quick and animated energy which usually presents problems or challenges), Mercury (reason, intelligence, orderliness, communication), Beth (house; builder) and the Path between Binah (female, receptive energy and the origin of form and structure) and Kether (the source, limitless possibility).  The Magician works hard to perfect his abilities, to make use of those abilities in unexpected ways, and to focus and carry through to the end of a task (which is pretty important to him).  This card is personally significant to me, and since he represents the manifestation of tangible knowledge (and the ability to control that manifestation), he just might work well with my Hermit.  The skills of The Magus can be easily manifested in a solitary fashion, and indeed this Major Arcana card was gifted to me after a particulary harrowing (and solitary) experience, so having them paired today makes sense.  The pair is encouraging as well because I benefited from that last experience, so I can also benefit from whatever appears today.

My Legacy card is the Ace of Coins reversed, flavored by the Page of Wands.  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 currently potential only, and since my Ace is reversed, I may not be able to tap into that potential in time to effectively encourage it to manifest.  My reversed Ace is being flavored by the Page of Wands.  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 fun to be around, unless you have a migraine. He is about being open to new experiences and about being enthusiastic about whatever is happening, and his optimism just might tip things into the right direction.  There is good potential throughout my cards today, even if there is also a prediction of some discomfort.  I can survive, and thrive!

My 6-digit date number is 7, the number that tells of the imposition of motion onto stability in order to prevent stagnation. 

My horoscopes: “Feel the love! You're a social, gregarious one, Sagittarius, and you'll feel the inclusive vibes today, as affectionate Venus enters your 11th house of group dynamics. If you've struggled to find your tribe, you have until October 23 to introduce yourself--and your efforts will be rewarded! Likewise, if you've been searching for something, be it a romantic relationship or even a business deal, you'll likely find it effortlessly through your social networks and friends of friends.

And: “A group event could put you in contact with a number of people interested in doing a healing meditation for the planet. This sort of activity can work wonders to strengthen the bond among those performing it. You might not talk much during the discussions, but you're apt to be in total agreement with the idea. Enjoy your day.

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Sunday, September 28, 2014

9/28/14

Transparent Oracle Sunday!

43, Sun (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 Sun brings light and warmth into our world, and thus life can exist.  The light illuminates truth, and the warmth brings wealth, success and happiness.  Our sun has a corona, so The Sun tells of charisma and brilliance.

8, Guide: Eagle (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.  Eagle is considered the King of Birds, and often is seen as a Divine Messenger because he can fly to such amazing heights.  He tells of being able to see into the distance, and of achievements (and associated honors) gotten through courage and focus.  When Eagle is around, courage and perspective and vision will bring great results.

10, Elemental: Sylph (East). East corresponds with the element of Air, which is hot and separates, and is wet and adapts.  Air brings animated energies which often bring challenges that offer the opportunity for growth, and thus it corresponds with knowledge, the working of the intellect, and new beginnings. Sylphs personify these concepts, and they encourage the use of imagination in an original way, they tell us to shift as needed in order to take advantage of the prevailing winds, and they tell us to fly free, filled with joy and unencumbered by life’s burdens (at least for a little while).

I then stacked my cards and created my mandala.  The image is a tight one, but with a clear progression.  As is right, The Sun is at the middle of the card.  Eagles circle The Sun, even touching its burning edges (and perhaps Eagle is the only one with the courage, strength and skill to fly as high as The Sun.  Sylphs circle the Eagles, following the powerful Eagles upward and maybe even riding the winds caused by their powerful passage, filled with joy as they experience flight.  This seems to be quite the powerful combination of energies.  Peak of power, the skills and courage to make use of that peak of power, and the ability to perceive all these experiences in an out-of-the-box way that will bring growth and joy!  Sign me up!

I did part three of Advanced Yoga for Cardiac Survivors today.  Awesome stuff!!  Next is getting the practicum hours in, then I get vetted by the hospital so I can teach.

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9/25/14

Four of Pentacles/Two of Cups (look for detailed background on this image!). The Four of Pentacles (the Sun, the inner core of a person or situation or the deepest self, in Capricorn, “I build,” ambition, authority, caution, cunning) tells of very solid foundations and an awareness of the value of our possessions.  The danger here is that once we realize how valuable things have become, we might expend too much energy protecting things and keeping them just as they are right now. The suit of Pentacles is more about following proven rules than experiencing the unknown, and today I may be more attracted to stability than new experiences. 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.  These additional meanings add to our understanding of the Two of Cups, which presents the Minor Archana version of The Lovers.  Perhaps this Minor card is asking us to understand the hows and whys of human love; something to think about today.

My Thoth cards are the Prince of Wands and the Five of Disks (“Worry”) reversed.  In the Thoth Tarot, the rank of Prince equals the rank of Knight.  The Prince/Knight of Wands (cusp of Scorpio, “I desire,” intense, controlling, deep, obsessive, and Sagittarius, “I seek,” philosophic, fun-loving, blundering) usually represents a person of passion, courage, enthusiasm and boundless energy; most definitely not background-type efforts.  My Knight adds passion to the romance and stability of my first two cards today, but he also warns me that I might see any differences of opinion as as a battle.  My armor will protect me, but will the end result be worth the fight?  Is the figt necessary at all? The Five of Disks (Mercury, reason, intelligence, education, skill, communication, in Taurus, “I have,” sensual, cautious, stubborn) tells of some loss or need within the physical world.  This card tells of wandering aimlessly looking for help and not finding it.  Since the image on the Thoth Five of Disks shows an upside-down pentacle, I may have a hint to the trouble.  Spirit is not the main focus, and perhaps it should be.  Success is not just measured by material possessions, and material possessions are empty if they are not accompanied by love and passion.  I am being offered a choice here: enthusiastically enjoy what I have at my disposal, or worry about what I don’t have.

My Legacy card is the King of Cups, flavored by the Eight of Coins.  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.  He is able to be calm, caring and diplomatic, and still get things done by getting others working together in a productive way.  My King is reminding me that taking actions for the betterment of others can often also bring us better times.  Today I may be very effective as a shepherd of others, and I should look outward rather than inward for I may not understand my own feelings.  My King of Cups is being flavored by the Eight of Coins.  The Eight of Coins (Sun, the inner core of a person or situation, in Virgo, “I serve,” practical, analytical, sensible, orderly) tells us that diligence and an awareness of details is important.  This card validates my interpretation of my King, and since it is also flavoring my King, my focus for the day should be to manifest love and compassion around me.

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

My horoscopes: “Raise that bow and be ready to shoot, Archer! Timing is everything today, and you don't want to get caught looking the other way when your target comes into perfect view. A harmonious angle between your celestial ruler, Jupiter, and transformative Uranus could attract the kind of supporters you need to get a key project off the ground right now. There's also a chance that you'll receive news of a travel opportunity or an invitation to work with folks in another country, so keep your ears--and options--open.

And: “Make some plans for recreation. Giving yourself something fun to look forward to can make even the toughest of times far easier to handle. You'll find it amazing how much you can manage when there's an end in sight. Your entire attitude can lighten, so take the bull by the horns, and create an incentive for yourself. Do something special to reward the hard work you do day after day.

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Thursday, September 25, 2014

9/24/14

Five of Wands reversed/The Magician reversed. The Five of Wands, which corresponds with Saturn (discipline, responsibility, law and order) in Leo (“I am, passionate, dramatic, egotistical) indicates a struggle caused by annoying cross-purposes when the card is upright.  Of course, this discomfort could be caused by growing pains, as well.  My card is reversed today, so serenity rather than irritation may be the word of the day.  The Magician corresponds with Air (hot/separates and wet/adapts, and quick and animated energy which usually presents problems or challenges), Mercury (reason, intelligence, orderliness, communication), Beth (house; builder) and the Path between Binah (female, receptive energy and the origin of form and structure) and Kether (the source, limitless possibility).  The Magician works hard to perfect his abilities, to make use of those abilities in unexpected ways, and to focus and carry through to the end of a task (which is pretty important to him).  This card is personally significant to me, and since he represents the manifestation of tangible knowledge (and the ability to control that manifestation), and since he is reversed, today may not be a day for consciously using the skills I have honed over the years.

My Thoth cards are The Chariot and The Emperor reversed. My only upright card today, 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 tells me that today is the day for me to be the driver, because I can control those contrary horses that are offering me mobility (if I can get them all moving in the same direction). I am also being told that I need to get to places today, and if I seriously want to go to bed tonight with my To-Do list accomplished, I need to get with the program.  The Emperor corresponds with Fire (hot/separates and dry/shapes, and spontaneous, impulsive, energetic change), Aries (“I want,” action oriented, assertive, competitive) and the Hebrew letter Heh (window, illumination), represents confidence, authority, and the archetype of the Father.  The Emperor instills balance, form and structure onto the fertility and creations of The Empress, an important task.  The Emperor says that the best way to make the day have a happy ending is to follow the rules, get things done on time, and encourage others to do the same, and he does his best to guide and protect others so they may do so.  Both The Chariot and The Emperor are about imposing personal Will onto a situation, but since my Emperor is reversed, today may not be completely about the higher good of those looking to me for authority.  I might be herding cats today, and that takes a strong (and sometimes ruthless) hand.  Also, perhaps the accomplishment of my personal goals (achieved by shutting out the needs of others) will in the end serve everyone.

My Legacy card is the Knight of Swords reversed, flavored by The Star 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.  His daring and courage are impressive, but he can also be disruptive, too.  While all of the Knights can be considered as mercinaries, the Knight of Swords truly personifies this career.  My Knight is reversed today, perhaps in order to highlight the differences between the Knight and The Chariot.  My Knight does not use emotions and a connection to the inner landscape in order to accomplish his tasks, and that lack could be dangerous.  My reversed Knight is being flavored by another reversed card, The Star reversed. Upright, The Star (Air, hot/separates and wet/adapts; Aquarius, “I know,” friendships, cause-oriented, the group, aloofness; Tzaddi, fishhook; the Path between Malkuth, the physical world of action and outer, physical reality, and Netzach, the stimulating factors of emotion and inspiration) is the “good will to all” card, and while it can hint at some unexpected darkness, it also reminds us that things will turn out okay in the end.  The upright Star reminds us to have faith, for while it may seem to be the darkest night, the dawn is just beyond the horizon.  But my Star is reversed, and once again I am being told that focusing outward on the needs of those around me, no matter how altruistic my intentions may be, will end up derailing the whole shebang.

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

My horoscopes: “Paging Team Sag! Today's New Moon in social Libra and your 11th house of community turns you into a veritable activities director. But don't squander the only Libra New Moon of the year on trifles like Scrabble tourneys. Use your organizational skills and innate charisma to get people to sign on to your next big thing. Since the 11th house also rules technology, this is the perfect moment to launch an e-venture, design a mobile app or rework your own website.

And: “You have a great deal of energy and self-confidence at this time, which may be wonderful and exciting, but keep in mind that it also may put you at greater risk for dangerous experiences and accidents. You may find that you are much more aggressive in all your actions, especially when someone crosses you on an emotional level. An emotional irritation may manifest in physical ways in the form of reckless behavior while driving, or an explosive argument with someone who is undeserving of your anger.

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Wednesday, September 24, 2014

9/22/14

The Hierophant reversed/Five of Swords. 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.  There is duty to be found in this card, as well as morality, and a suggestion that tradition should not be accepted blindly, particularly when the card is reversed, as it is today. 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 also be telling of what seems to be overwhelming opposition, or being made to suffer the sins of others, but because it is alongside my reversed Hierophant today I think it is warning me, shouting that warning.  My way is not necessarily everyone else’s way, and fundamentalist responses are a danger today.

My Thoth cards are the Queen of Disks reversed and The Emperor. The Queen of Disks (cusp of Sagittarius, “I seek,” philosophic, fun-loving, blundering, and Capricorn, “I build,” ambition, caution, cunning, authoritative) is very good at sustaining the physical world, keeping things dry and cozy and safe and orderly.  Crowley sees this Queen as striving to manifest pleasurable surroundings without going overboard, and because she is reversed (and because of the other cards in my throw today), I am not tapping into the message of this Queen very effectively.  More danger here of forgetting that traditions are not meant to serve just me. The Emperor corresponds with Fire (hot/separates and dry/shapes, and spontaneous, impulsive, energetic change), Aries (“I want,” action oriented, assertive, competitive) and the Hebrew letter Heh (window, illumination), represents confidence, authority, and the archetype of the Father.  The Emperor instills balance, form and structure onto the fertility and creations of The Empress, an important task.  The Emperor says that the best way to make the day have a happy ending is to follow the rules, get things done on time, and encourage others to do the same, and he does his best to guide and protect others so they may do so.  Perhaps The Emperor is offering me an alternative path to leadership, helping my reversed Hierophant above to remember that sometimes we need to sacrifice our own needs or beliefs for the good of all.

My Legacy card is the Eight of Wands, flavored by the Ace of Cups reversed. 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 sudden, and while the dust will surely fly, the end result should be balance.  This one is kind of a Minor Arcana version of The Wheel, and I might need this kind of energy today.  Yes, I will be challenged to keep the higher good of all in mind while I am tempted to impose my own needs onto situations, but things should evolve quickly, so I won’t need to consciously maintain my position for long.  My Eight of Wands is being flavored by the reversed Ace of Cups, a final warning for the day. Upright, the Ace of Cups (Libra, “We are,” partnerships, balance, cooperation, Scorpio, “I desire,” intense, deep, mysterious, obsessive, Sagittarius, “I seek,” philosophic, fun-loving, adventurous, blundering) tells of the potential to experience deep emotions, a connection to my Inner Voice, and a connection to those around me.  My Ace is reversed, however, and while that works well with my reversed Eight of Wands (which is being directly flavored by the reversed Ace), a lack of realistic connection to my Inner Voice could add to the possible disruptions being hinted at by my other cards.   

My 6-digit date number is 9, thenumber that tells of a completeness of manifestation or effect.

My horoscopes: “After a month of endless workdays, back-to-back meetings and political power plays, you're ready to peel off the power suit, slip into your comfiest jeans and reacquaint yourself with good old-fashioned fun. Today the Sun dives into Libra and your 11th house of community until October 23. Reward yourself for all your recent hard work by reconnecting with your friends and checking new scenes. If you must do anything, update your technology or start a blog--perfect 11th house activities.

And: “A love partner may have heard some great news about a career success today, Nanci, and could want to take you out to celebrate. Go--no matter what else you have to reschedule! Your friend is in a great mood, looks wonderful, and is feeling very passionate and sexy. If you want a night to remember, don't let this chance pass you by. And also make sure that you look your very best!

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Sunday, September 21, 2014

9/21/14

Transparent Oracle Sunday! 

31, Gateway: Winter (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.  Because this Gateway is square and solid, and appears unshakable and immovable, it seems like a safe place, or a strong foundation upon which we can exist and prosper.

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.

64, Hearing (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.  Hearing is about perceiving without using our ability to visualize, in order to understand; it is about an inward flow of knowledge, wisdom, information or energy.  Hearing can be accomplished with our physical ears, with our other physical senses, and also with our minds and our ability to be aware.  In order to Hear, we must open ourselves to being able to listen, maybe even to listen to things we don’t want to hear.

I then stacked my cards and created my mandala.  The Gateway of Winter always seems to be a portal of some sort to me, and it is interesting that this 4-sided card seems to work well with the three-imaged cards presented here.  Transmutation is the word of the day, and I certainly will be able to “consume” physical-workd knowledge by both hearing and listening.  Very simple suggestions, but very powerful ones too, and not easily accomplished over the long term.  However, with that Fiery power, I just might be able to endure, and benefit.

Today was the second of three advanced intensives offering Yoga for Cardiac Survivors.  Yes, I certainly was able to consume knowledge by both hearing and listening. 

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Saturday, September 20, 2014

9/18/14

Knight of Wands reversed/King of Wands.  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. This Knight can be seen to represent the coming and going of energy, but that process may not be effective because things are not seen through to completion.  Because my Knight is reversed, his intense way of dealing with the energies of the day may be more destructive than productive.  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 is admired by all, is able to assert authority without alienating others, and his achievements not only bring him benefits, but also increase the quality of life for those around him.  He presents a more mature way to deal with those energies the Knight is struggling with. 

My Thoth cards are The Sun reversed and the Queen of Disks.  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.  Even reversed, as it is today, The Sun is not a bad card, just a bit less intense in its illumination.  Because my card is reversed, I may need to resist the lure of shamelessness or vanity.  Okay, I can do that.  The Queen of Disks (cusp of Sagittarius, “I seek,” philosophic, fun-loving, blundering, and Capricorn, “I build,” ambition, caution, cunning, authoritative) is very good at sustaining the physical world, keeping things dry and cozy and safe and orderly.  Crowley sees this Queen as striving to manifest pleasurable surroundings without going overboard, and today I should work hard and quietly, striving to be practical and dedicated.  I think my Queen agrees that shamelessness and vanity are to be avoided.

My Legacy card is The Devil reversed, flavored by Death reversed.  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.  Not every deck sees this card as representing hopeless bondage, and the Legacy Devil offers instead the seductive allure of superficial beauty and attractiveness.  Because my Devil is reversed, I should be able to resist the allure and overcome the temptations of pleasures of the senses.  My reversed Devil card is being flavored by another reversed Major Arcana, the reversed Death card.  The Death card of the Major Arcana corresponds with Water (cold/binds and wet/adapts, and sensitive, imaginative energy that strives to stay the same or take the same course), Scorpio, Nun (fish head; liberation), and the Path between Tiphareth (the hub of the creation process where energies harmonize and focus to illuminate and clarify) and Netzach (the stimulating factors of emotion and inspiration), and it tells of natural change that cannot be stopped, and that usually involves the potential to step upward on the evolutionary ladder. Many people fear this card, but Death can be seen as representing natural change through alchemic putrefaction.  The important thing about this change is that I need to embrace it even though I don’t know where it will take me, and because this card is also reversed, I am being told that not only do I need to resist temptation, but I must also clear away the trappings of that temptation if I am to succeed.

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

My horoscopes: “Retire those rebellious ways! You like to act in the moment, Sagittarius, without much thought about the repercussions. However, with the Moon in your thrill-seeking eighth house getting a smackdown from steady and mature Saturn, you may actually find the willpower to hold off on some id-pleasing desire that you know isn't good for you. This applies to your interpersonal relationships as well as other temptations: If it doesn't get you further toward your goals, then just say no!

And: “Emotional levels run high among members of a group you're affiliated with, as disagreements turn into quarrels. Stay out of this - it won't do you any good. Write down your impressions and share them with the others at another time when tempers have cooled. You might find yourself wanting to make one final push toward attaining a personal goal of your own, but you could be blocked by forces beyond your control. Try to remain patient!

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Thursday, September 18, 2014

9/17/14

The Hanging Man/The Emperor.  The Hanging Man corresponds with Water (cold/binds and wet/adapts, and emotional, sensitive and imaginative energy that tends to move deep, and attempts to take the same path as in the past), Neptune (inspiration, spirituality, magick, enchantment, dreams, altered states), and the Hebrew letter Mem (water, stability and balance, the reflective quality of thought), and presents the kind of balance that comes to us through surrender, and through deliberately attempting to see things in a different way.  This card tells of initiation and destiny, as well as sacrifice and loss, but the interesting thing here is that in many situations, the face of the Hanging Man is not distorted by pain or suffering, as we would expect.  Instead he is serene, as if he was experiencing a quiet epiphany.  This card has a “wait and see” feel about it, or maybe a fatalistic acceptance of what presents itself.  The key to The Hanging Man’s evolution is his ability to see without expectations, and without including the input of his body or his physical world, and those are important focuses for me today.  The Emperor corresponds with Fire (hot/separates and dry/shapes, and spontaneous, impulsive, energetic change), Aries (“I want,” action oriented, assertive, competitive) and the Hebrew letter Heh (window, illumination), represents confidence, authority, and the archetype of the Father.  The Emperor instills balance, form and structure onto the fertility and creations of The Empress, an important task.  The Emperor says that the best way to make the day have a happy ending is to follow the rules, get things done on time, and encourage others to do the same, and he does his best to guide and protect others so they may do so.  It appears I am being offered a choice here: perceive the world by surrendering my own Will, or take on the responsibility of my environment by imposing my own Will for the good of all.  There is one common thread through these two seemingly opposing cards: sacrifice.  Perhaps their opposing natures are there to teach me that there are many ways to sacrifice for the good of a group, or a desired outcome.

My Thoth cards are The Hermit reversed and The Magician reversed.  The Hermit corresponds with Earth (cold/binds and dry/shapes, and material, practical and stable energy that is slow to change), as well as Virgo (“I serve,” practical, analytical, work and service oriented, orderly), Yod (open hand, touch), and the Path between Tiphareth (the hub of the creation process where energies harmonize and focus to illuminate and clarify) and Chesed (the place where forms and structure are stabilized and nurtured), and in an upright position is about searching within for a deeper meaning, often through solitude bordering on discomfort.  The Hermit tells us that in order to release the past and achieve something of value, the work must be done internally, usually involving solitude to the point of discomfort, and with an outward mantle of “business as usual.”  Like The High Priestess, he deals with hidden or not obvious knowledge, however The Hermit understands that his knowledge is insignificant when compared to what he does not know.  He also acknowledges that the maintenance of his solitude requires Will power.  Once again, the Will and the concept of sacrifice have appeared, but since my Hermit is reversed, he is suggesting that seeking a deeper meaning just might distract me from things.  Better I should surrender without an expectation of ever understanding why.  The Magician corresponds with Air (hot/separates and wet/adapts, and quick and animated energy which usually presents problems or challenges), Mercury (reason, intelligence, orderliness, communication), Beth (house; builder) and the Path between Binah (female, receptive energy and the origin of form and structure) and Kether (the source, limitless possibility).  The Magician works hard to perfect his abilities, to make use of those abilities in unexpected ways, and to focus and carry through to the end of a task (which is pretty important to him).  This card is personally significant to me, and since he represents the manifestation of tangible knowledge (and the ability to control that manifestation), and since he is reversed, I am once again being sent back to The Hanging Man (who, after all, is the opposite of The Magician).  

My Legacy card is the Queen of Cups reversed, flavored by The Emperor reversed.  Bookends!  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 is comfortable with her own feelings (whatever they are), and she is comfortable dealing with the feelings of others (whether serene or uncomfortable) without losing her own serenity.  She nurtures and encourages the serenity and dreams of others, too.  She is able to maintain her serenity no matter what outside discomforts may appear, and because she is reversed, that kind of emotional groundedness might be a challenge for me today.  My reversed Queen of Cups is being flavored by The Emporer reversed.  The Legacy Emperor in an upright position is about glorious civilizations and dominion over surrounding lands, and the ability to bring everything together in order to create a strong foundation and then act as a catalyst for orderly growth.  My Emperor is reversed, and he is flavoring my reversed Queen.  No emotional serenity and no predictability or ability to manifest dominion in a balanced manner.  Looks like The Hanging Man is my best option today.

More about my Bookends card, The Emperor.  The Emperor is an interesting card.  He has the vision necessary to create a dynasty, and the power, authority, experience and wisdom to manifest that vision.  In a way, we each are one version of The Emperor, because whether we know it or not, we control our immediate environment.  The best way to exercise this control is by imposing the laws of the Divine and the human laws of civilization.  The Emperor also reminds us that the good of the many must supercede the good of the few, and he reminds us that authority comes with responsibility, and even personal sacrifice.  In order to be a good ruler, we sometimes need to put aside our personal needs in order to lead and serve others, and The Emperor is good at sacrificing yet still inspiring others to reach upward and evolve toward fulfillment.

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

My horoscopes: “You already have that wild-child streak, Sagittarius, but you might lose all your self-restraint today, as the Moon in your danger-loving eighth house forms a tangled angle with rebellious Uranus. You won't be able to say no to temptation—whether it's a liaison with that emo loner, the cigarette you promised you'd never touch again or one too many macarons from the corner bakery. Be extra careful that you don't do something just for shock value or as a cheap thrill, since you'll be the one paying the price for that.

And: “Who IS that intriguing person who's just moved into your neighborhood? What is it about your new neighbor that makes it impossible for you to stop wondering about them? Quit obsessing over it! Get your courage up, and the next time this person is outside, go over and introduce yourself, using the pretext of a "welcome to the neighborhood!" Maybe you'll find this person likable, maybe not, but give it a shot, anyway! Enjoy!

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Wednesday, September 17, 2014

9/16/14

King of Cups/Six of Wands reversed. 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.  He is able to be calm, caring and diplomatic, and still get things done by getting others working together in a productive way.  My King is showing me how to turn physical world discomforts and mental puzzles into opportunities for emotional evolution, and he is showing me that sometimes I have to be the grownup and control my own feelings in order to better serve the group. 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 just yet, or perhaps my creative abilities are being dampened by some other effect. 

My Thoth cards are the Ten of Swords (“Ruin”) reversed and the Three of Wands (“Virtue”). The Ten of Swords (the Sun, the inner core of a person or situation, in Gemini, “I think,” curious, sociable, dual, talkative) in an upright position tells of the perception that interference, powerlessness and restriction will rule the day.  The traditional image on this one is of a body laying on its stomach, with ten Swords sticking up out of his back, a perfect example of overkill!  Because my card is reversed, I need to really remember that while things may appear bad, they are most lilely not as bad as they seem.  The arrangement of the Swords on the upright card is somewhat top heavy, which makes sense.  A bit of grounding into reality may be appropriate 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) is a card of planning ahead that tells of the excitement that comes with good possibilities at hand.  Crowley sees this one as representing primal energy that is beginning to manifest, one of the most fertile cards in the whole deck.  The Thoth version of these two cards are similar on first glance.  They both have an orange background, and they both seem to be expanding outward.  If I perform the grounding into reality requested by my reversed Ten of Swords, I just might be able to tap into all that great juju offered by the Three of Wands. 

My Legacy card is the Ace of Swords reversed, flavored by The High Priestess. 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; it offers the power to analyze that is necessary in order to make good choices, and in order to react correctly to events in our day.  My reversed Ace of Swords is being flavored today by The High Priestess, and that makes perfect sense. The High Priestess (Water; the Moon, feelings and emotions, illusion, imagination; Gimel, the camel who safely crosses Da’ath, the Abyss, and thus, has the secret of life; and the Path between Tiphareth, the hub of the creation process where energies harmonize and focus to illuminate and clarify, and Kether, the source, limitless possibility), is one-half of the Major Arcana representation of the Sacred Feminine, with The Empress being the other half. The High Priestess is the source of the power of The Magician (who is also in my spread today), the feminine version of The Hierophant, and the Keeper of the Mysteries.  She is the Gatekeeper who determines whether I am ready to experience the Mysteries, and she is somewhat removed from everyday life although her mind is receptive.  She is not about mental analysis at all; rather she tells me that in order to access the Mysteries she guards, I must know my inner self completely, and accept the messages of my Inner Voice, even if they defy analysis. 

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

My horoscopes:  What are you really feeling, Sagittarius? You're usually the type to think in broad strokes and let your optimism distract you from any deeper emotional processing. However, you have a rare chance to really inhabit the feelings you sometimes avoid today, as the Moon in your intimate eighth house gets a cosmic boost from healing Neptune. Just remember to be kind to yourself, whatever sentiments come up. You're human and can't be the picture of sunshine all the time!

And: “This is one of those days in which you are better able to stand back and look at your emotions from a cerebral perspective. Your freedom-loving nature is not built to deal with heavy emotional baggage and turmoil, so don't bother. This is not your bag, so don't even pick it up. Be especially wary of those who seem to plop it directly in front of you and then expect that you will deal with its unpredictable contents.

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