tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-91815255255726374862024-03-13T21:58:15.689+10:30Please Visit New Web PageFrances, TDMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00274236416870252039noreply@blogger.comBlogger104125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9181525525572637486.post-67405923501582980802021-11-30T21:57:00.003+10:302021-11-30T21:57:17.349+10:30Be Aware of a Duplicate Account<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSTlhLE2W35J8hRIzhHcwx4eri8-EbYcbEfEGgJ8dL5nyRe9rM4qr2CcoXAyTOwOf6yIP2ZFD-V_1hnVZaH28P9SRgkswsIlu-UDEvkntsjF4hzgUfOxR5EpHgNTKJkIhpDJDB0AEfeO8/" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img alt="" data-original-height="548" data-original-width="730" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSTlhLE2W35J8hRIzhHcwx4eri8-EbYcbEfEGgJ8dL5nyRe9rM4qr2CcoXAyTOwOf6yIP2ZFD-V_1hnVZaH28P9SRgkswsIlu-UDEvkntsjF4hzgUfOxR5EpHgNTKJkIhpDJDB0AEfeO8/" width="320" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: verdana;">It has been brought to my attention that there is another Facebook account entitled TEMPLE OF THE DARK MOON that links to this web page. </span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Despite duplicating a number of my photographs taken of Temple events, this other Facebook account has a male image as the cover image as well as a number of posts with Arabic looking writing on it.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">It is not clear whether this account is a genuine duplicate of name or an attempt to tap into the Temple's identity due to the duplication of photos as well as it linking to this blog account.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Please note that this secondary account is NOT the authentic account for the Temple of the Dark Moon, based in Adelaide, South Australia, established c.1997.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">This blog page is NOT IN OPERATION. The Temple of the Dark Moon's web page can be<a href="http://templedarkmoon.com/"><b> found here</b></a>.</span></p>Frances, TDMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00274236416870252039noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9181525525572637486.post-54058659075604373422018-01-15T20:20:00.001+10:302018-01-15T20:23:37.134+10:30Revamped Web Site Up and Running<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCRhVy_ILaGYnjYjO0SctNuBy9sTOM2A5zM5vnaWVRo9BBOqo3EMBsk_hcD_-BK_5Zkxc8G3rn0hWb6Qn8d3iJCGuo_kvVUM_KIpsMk_eHz7_e0_TGCKzu0f0xaHagRdsePws6iR9bibs/s1600/TDM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="492" data-original-width="740" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCRhVy_ILaGYnjYjO0SctNuBy9sTOM2A5zM5vnaWVRo9BBOqo3EMBsk_hcD_-BK_5Zkxc8G3rn0hWb6Qn8d3iJCGuo_kvVUM_KIpsMk_eHz7_e0_TGCKzu0f0xaHagRdsePws6iR9bibs/s320/TDM.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
It has been a long time coming but finally time has been found to revamp the Temple of the Dark Moon's web site.
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While there are still a few formatting as well as other minor glitches to iron out over the coming weeks, overall, however, the end result is workable and, I hope, easy to follow.<br />
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The revamped web site can be found <a href="http://www.templedarkmoon.com/">here</a>.<br />
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With the web site now operational, it would be recommended that anyone wishing to receive updates on events and/or my blog posts, to subscribe to the blog on the web page as activity on this blog will no doubt lessen.<br />
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Blessings, Frances<br />
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<br />Frances, TDMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00274236416870252039noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9181525525572637486.post-20161267360292128032015-01-30T17:55:00.000+10:302015-01-30T17:55:13.408+10:30Lughnasadh - the Wake of the Lord of the Grain<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<span class="irc_su" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Lughnasadh / Lammas / Harvest</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As the Wheel of the Year turns once more, those of us residing south of the equator find ourselves at the gateway to the Autumn months and the darker months of the year. Ironically, however, this gateway tends to herald in the hottest weather as if the sun is determined to cleanse and purify the southern lands through the element of fire before its departure is well and truly noticed.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">Traditionally the Sabbat celebrated is that of the first harvest, Lughnasadh (from the Irish Gaelic <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span lang="ga" xml:lang="ga"><i>Lúnasa) </i></span>or</span> Lammas (from the Anglo-Saxon</span><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> <i>hlaf-mas</i>, "loaf-mass") and when "the feast of the first fruits" was observed. In the agricultural year, Lughnasadh or Lammas also marked the end of the hay making season that had commenced as early as mid Summer.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">According to Irish mythology, the festival of Lughnasadh were first observed by the God Lugh as a funeral feast and games in honour of his foster </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">mother Tailtiu who had died from exhaustion </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">after clearing the plains of Ireland for agriculture. Originally known as <span lang="ga" xml:lang="ga"><em>Óenach Tailten</em>, these games were held at Tailtin in what is now County Meath and were considered to be similar to </span></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">the a</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">ncient Greek Olympic Games</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> in that they included ritual athletic and sporting contests. The <span lang="ga" xml:lang="ga"><em>Óenach Tailten </em>also included</span> fairs, the drawing-up of contracts, and </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">matchmaking. Trial marriages were also </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">were conducted, where young couples joined hands through a hole in a wooden door. These marriages lasted a year and a day, at which time the union could be made permanent or broken without consequences. When the games were revived in the </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">20th century, they were known as the </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em>Tailteann Games</em>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">Here in central southern Australia, the hay and grain harvest has long been collect, and with the intensive weather at the start of the year (that brought an early and rather frightening start to the bush fire season), there is limited bounty to reap from my garden as corn, tomatoes, lettuce and celery all perished. Yet, being a festival which can also be seen as a Wake for the Sacred King (the Lord of the Grain), this appears rather appropriate.</span><span style="font-family: Arial;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">A Wake<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> (from the Old English
<i>wacan</i> meaning to "wake up" or <i>wacian</i> "to be awake, keep watch", was a custom in most Celtic countries in Europe for mourners to keep watch or vigil over their dead until they were buried. At Lughnasadh, we prepare ourselves to observe the Wake of the Sacred King whose life has been sacrificed in order for ours to be strengthened. And while the sun continues to entice us outdoors, we are reminded of the more festive aspect of this time of the year - the fairs, handfastings and feasts, as are expressed </span></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">in the following poem, "The Rigs O' Barley" by Scottish poet Robbie Burns</span>:<br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em>It was on a Lammas night, when corn rigs are bonie,<br /> Beneath the moon's unclouded light, I held away to Annie:<br /> The time flew by, wi tentless heed, till 'tween the late and early;<br /> Wi' sma' persuasion she agreed to see me thro' the barley. </em></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em>The sky was blue, the wind was still, the moon was shining clearly;<br /> I set her down, wi' right good will, amang the rigs o' barley<br /> I ken't her heart was a' my ain; I lov'd her most sincerely;<br /> I kissed her owre and owre again, among the rig o' barley. </em></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em>I locked her in my fond embrace; her heart was beating rarely:<br /> My blessings on that happy place, amang the rigs o' barley.<br /> But by the moon and stars so bright, that shone that hour so clearly!<br /> She ay shall bless that happy night, amang the rigs o' barley. </em></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em>I hae been blythe wi' Comrades dear; I hae been merry drinking;<br /> I hae been joyfu' gath'rin gear; I hae been happy thinking:<br /> But a' the pleasures e'er I saw, tho three times doubl'd fairley<br /> That happy night was worth then a' among the rig's o' barley.</em> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">CHORUS</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em>Corn rigs, an' barley rigs, an' corn rigs are bonie:<br /> I'll ne'er forget that happy night, among the rigs wi' Annie.</em> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Sources:</span></div>
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<a href="http://www.robertburns.org/works/30.shtml"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Robert Burns Country</span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Image: <span class="_r3"><a class="_ZR irc_hol" data-ved="0CAYQjB0" href="https://www.cctvcambridge.org/node/111871" jsaction="mousedown:irc.rl;keydown:irc.rlk"><span class="irc_ho" dir="ltr"><span style="color: #1a0dab;">Lughnasadh / Lammas / Harvest (Ritual and Drum Circle)</span></span></a></span></span></span></div>
Frances, TDMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00274236416870252039noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9181525525572637486.post-72195493239651040942011-12-01T18:56:00.000+10:302011-12-01T18:56:33.488+10:30The Power of Language<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZCrPPEP9bLA/Ttc03SdnXxI/AAAAAAAAEE0/RhZzA1PMLgE/s1600/words.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZCrPPEP9bLA/Ttc03SdnXxI/AAAAAAAAEE0/RhZzA1PMLgE/s200/words.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">At this time of the year, I find it interesting how many people who confess that they are Pagans throughout the year start becoming "Christianised" and celebrate Christmas. The reasoning behind this personally escapes me as being a Pagan, the only festival I acknowledge is the upcoming Solstice, and being in the Southern Hemisphere, this is the Summer Solstice, unlike my northern counterparts who will soon be celebrating the Winter Solstice, or Yule.</div><a name='more'></a><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I have recently come across indication that "oh it's only words, and words don't matter" - which statement in itself has prompted this posting for to me anyhow, as there is much power in words, they actually do matter.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G60XVUB-WYk/Ttc08Wv8cYI/AAAAAAAAEE8/xzvRW8LBsYA/s1600/speech.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="133" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G60XVUB-WYk/Ttc08Wv8cYI/AAAAAAAAEE8/xzvRW8LBsYA/s200/speech.png" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Geoffrey Rush, "The King's Speech"</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">Words are not just mindless dribble the flow from our brains out of our mouths, but they are the main form of communication, both verbally and written. We use words to empower our thoughts and desires and the impact of such is often dependent on the words we use. It is possibly that because words are often used automatically and unconsciously, that we have some how come to the view that they are no longer important.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Words shape the language we use and the way we define things. Language is equally as important for it creates and transforms our lives. In times of conquest, language was one of the first things the victor sought to suppress. Even within the English language this is happening today with the various definitions creeping in from other sources. For example, when I was at school, the emphasis was on "English" English, however today, and possibly thanks to the internet, an increasing number of "Americanisms" are creeping in with not only a change in the spelling of words but terminology - such as 4WDs are being replaced by SUVs.So goes the evolution of the English language I guess.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Words also do not just convey a meaning - they are actually a force. They can hurt and heal, be manipulated to carry hidden meanings, and if thought is not given to their interpretation, they have even been known to start wars. Therefore, to simply dismiss something becuase "it is just words" could be seen as being rather foolhardly.</div><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KZ3YgLB9fm8/TtczwB1DgNI/AAAAAAAAEEU/n5BJ8Ig1jHU/s1600/solstice.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KZ3YgLB9fm8/TtczwB1DgNI/AAAAAAAAEEU/n5BJ8Ig1jHU/s200/solstice.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Summer Solstice altar c.2007</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">Former Catholic monk and author, Thomas Moore, once said that the words a leader chooses are just as critical as their actions. This is something that I believe we all should be aware of. Words therefore are very important and not something to be merely dismissed as irrelevant.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Aside from the obligatory family orientated gatherings (most of which I have managed to avoid), I have not actually marked Christmas in over 10 or so years now. As a Pagan, I honour the Summer Solstice, which occurs around the 22nd December this year, and it pleases me when my non-Pagan friends and family wish me a "happy solstice" as opposed to a "happy Christmas" because, at least to me, this simple gesture indicates that in some way they are honouring my choice of belief.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div style="text-align: justify;">References and further reading:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.resurgence.org/magazine/article3284-the-power-of-language.html">"The Power of Language"</a> (author not noted) - article from Resurgence ezine</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.care2.com/greenliving/the-power-of-language.html">"The Power of Language"</a> (author not noted) - article from Green Living ezine</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://languagerichblog.eu/2011/09/16/the-power-of-languages/">"The Power of Languages"</a> by Eilidh MacDonald </div>Frances, TDMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00274236416870252039noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9181525525572637486.post-39875029386482756482011-11-27T08:12:00.000+10:302011-11-27T08:12:29.569+10:30Connection with the Divine<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Tz0iE4ZGgSY/TtFclaaNFmI/AAAAAAAAECc/QYLNlh2a3Ng/s1600/puja3_low.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="132" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Tz0iE4ZGgSY/TtFclaaNFmI/AAAAAAAAECc/QYLNlh2a3Ng/s200/puja3_low.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;"><em><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Performing a Hindu puja ritual is a wonderful way to experience </span></em></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;"><em><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">direct communication with the divine.<o:p></o:p></span></em></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Forging a spiritual connection with the divine is the ultimate goal of many forms of worship. In our devotions, we transcend the limitations of our humanity using prayers, rituals, and invocations, or we seek the celestial in sacred items such as statuary, imagery, or natural objects. In the Hindu tradition, worshipers bond with the divine through the puja ritual. The purpose of the ritual is to create an atmosphere in which humans and spiritual beings can enjoy communion with one another. </span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Though participants show reverence for their chosen deities, puja serves to bring the former and the latter together on an energetic level. Performing a puja ritual is thus a wonderful way to experience direct communication with the divine.</span></span></div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a name='more'></a> </span><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1eDhK-a2nEY/TtFcyjorUVI/AAAAAAAAECs/6jT4ghpDWDk/s1600/goddess_candle_copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1eDhK-a2nEY/TtFcyjorUVI/AAAAAAAAECs/6jT4ghpDWDk/s200/goddess_candle_copy.jpg" width="132" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;"></span><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">There are no limits as to whom may serve as the focal point of your puja. You need only choose a spirit guide to commune with and an object to represent them. Preparing for the puja ritual, however, can take some time, depending on the number of devotional acts you will perform.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A classic puja includes 16 acts, including meditation, chanting, the reading of sacred texts, offerings of food and drink, and cleansing. You may also wish to present gifts of incense, flowers, and jewelry during the ritual. An altar or table covered by an altar cloth provides space for the representation of the divine and the seat of the puja. To begin, prepare your offerings and place them to the right of the altar. Then center yourself and release any stress you may feel—the puja is meant to be a joyful experience. </span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Typically, the ritual begins with the ringing of a bell and an invitation, and progresses from chanting to the cleansing and dressing of the deity to the offerings to meditation. You can modify your puja in any way you wish. </span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UxzKml2d0XI/TtFcwKbfkMI/AAAAAAAAECk/EtkreG-Etkk/s1600/Contemplation-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UxzKml2d0XI/TtFcwKbfkMI/AAAAAAAAECk/EtkreG-Etkk/s200/Contemplation-1.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;"></span><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Though the elaborate puja rituals performed in Hindu temples take place at sunrise, noon, sunset, and midnight, puja performed in the home primarily takes place in the mornings and evenings. When your intention is to invite your spiritual guides into your home and heart, however, the time of day matters little.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">With practice, you will create a direct path to spiritual oneness that allows you to experience an amazing sense of closeness that reinforces your connection with the divine.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Source: </span><a href="http://www.dailyom.com/"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Daily Om</span></a></span></div>Frances, TDMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00274236416870252039noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9181525525572637486.post-38776079408690328602011-11-23T18:51:00.000+10:302011-11-23T18:51:37.426+10:30Perceiving the Infinite - Using Your Psychic Gifts<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TOknMfdx5g8/TsyselU5LuI/AAAAAAAAD_U/eMjtPrXOvLw/s1600/astral-body-asleep-1968.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TOknMfdx5g8/TsyselU5LuI/AAAAAAAAD_U/eMjtPrXOvLw/s200/astral-body-asleep-1968.jpg" width="128" /></span></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;"><em><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">People often have difficulty accepting tha</span></em></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;"><em><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">they have been blessed with psychic abilities.<o:p></o:p></span></em></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Psychic experiences are a natural part of our everyday lives. People often have difficulty accepting that they have been blessed with psychic abilities because without a frame of reference it is almost impossible to identify an extrasensory experience and to distinguish psychic sights, sounds, and sensations from the projects of the unconscious mind. To some extent, every human being on the planet is clairvoyant, clairaudient, and clairsentient, although most people discover that they are naturally adept at one more than the others. </span></span></div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a name='more'></a></span><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cBVDdZX536s/TsysrxA4ZCI/AAAAAAAAD_k/pPwDS7Zm8J4/s1600/deva.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cBVDdZX536s/TsysrxA4ZCI/AAAAAAAAD_k/pPwDS7Zm8J4/s200/deva.jpg" width="142" /></span></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When you trust in and take steps to hone your innate clairvoyance, clairaudience, and clairsentience, you will enter a new realm of being in which the universe, your higher self, and your spirit guides lovingly conduct you toward a more aware existence.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Clairvoyance, or clear seeing, is the ability to see with the mind's eye. An individual who has honed their clairvoyant abilities may be able to see in their mind's eye events in a remote location; to witness incidents that have yet to occur; or to perceive shapes, colours, and other images that are physically invisible. Clairaudience, which means clear listening, is the ability to hear sounds not physically audible.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A person with the gift of clairaudience perceives psychic information as auditory resonance and may hear angelic voices, music, or other sounds. A clairsentient, or clear feeling, individual is able to sense physical, emotional, and spiritual energy in the form of seemingly unearthly scents, touches, and movements. Each of these psychic abilities can manifest themselves within us voluntarily or involuntarily. It is natural for us to have these abilities; we need only practice.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Srxwr4fWd0k/TsysumJw7kI/AAAAAAAAD_s/rvk1tzRigf8/s1600/heart+self.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="141" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Srxwr4fWd0k/TsysumJw7kI/AAAAAAAAD_s/rvk1tzRigf8/s200/heart+self.jpg" width="200" /></span></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;"></span><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Developing your psychic talents is a matter of releasing your fear of seeing, hearing, or feeling inexplicable or disquieting stimulus. Before you attempt to consciously tap into your gifts, ground yourself to anchor your mind in the present to disconnect from any involuntary psychic experiences you may be having. Concentrate on your intuitive responses to the world around you and notice any sights, sounds, or feelings that enter your mind. </span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If you trust your perceptions, you will discover that each psychic impression you receive will be in some way relevant to your experience—even when that relevance may not be immediately recognizable.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Source: </span><a href="http://www.dailyom.com/"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Daily Om</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div>Frances, TDMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00274236416870252039noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9181525525572637486.post-73575492796357791182011-11-20T07:52:00.000+10:302011-11-20T07:52:22.817+10:30The Ripple Effect of a Virtuous Cycle<div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2q1XKoKCo8E/TsgdYi4LC2I/AAAAAAAAD_E/DgZimOitNzc/s1600/silent-thoughts-starry-sky.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="182" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2q1XKoKCo8E/TsgdYi4LC2I/AAAAAAAAD_E/DgZimOitNzc/s200/silent-thoughts-starry-sky.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> <em>Your thoughts and actions are like stones dropped into still waters, </em></span><span style="font-family: Arial;"><em>causing ripples to spread as they move outward.</em></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In a world of six billion people, it is easy to believe that the only way to initiate profound transformation is to take extreme action. Each of us, however, carries within us the capacity to change the world in small ways for better or worse. Everything we do and think affects the people in our lives, and their reactions in turn affect others. As the effect of a seemingly insignificant word passes from person to person, its impact grows and can become a source of great joy, inspiration, anxiety, or pain. Your thoughts and actions are like stones dropped into still waters, causing ripples to spread and expand as they move outward. </span></span></div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a name='more'></a></span><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The impact you have on the world is greater than you could ever imagine, and the choices you make can have far-reaching consequences. You can use the ripple effect to make a positive difference and spread waves of kindness that will wash over the world.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lcCG1NR_pYE/Tsgda1lWagI/AAAAAAAAD_M/ldTHb4-Y0og/s1600/world-in-black-and-white-hands-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lcCG1NR_pYE/Tsgda1lWagI/AAAAAAAAD_M/ldTHb4-Y0og/s200/world-in-black-and-white-hands-1.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Should the opportunity arise, the recipient of a good deed will likely feel compelled to do a good deed for someone else. Someone feeling the effects of negative energy will be more likely to pass on that negative energy. One act of charity, one thoughtful deed, or even one positive thought can pass from individual to individual, snowballing until it becomes a group movement or the ray of hope that saves someone’s life. </span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Every transformation, just like every ripple, has a point of origin. You must believe in your ability to be that point of origin if you want to use the ripples you create to spread goodness. Consider the effect of your thoughts and actions, and try to act graciously as much as possible. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; tab-stops: 45.8pt 91.6pt 137.4pt 183.2pt 229.0pt 274.8pt 320.6pt 366.4pt 412.2pt 458.0pt 503.8pt 549.6pt 595.4pt 641.2pt 687.0pt 732.8pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A smile directed at a stranger, a compliment given to a friend, an attitude of laughter, or a thoughtful gesture can send ripples that spread among your loved ones and associates, out into your community, and finally throughout the world. You have the power to touch the lives of everyone you come into contact with and everyone those people come into contact with. The momentum of your influence will grow as your ripples moves onward and outward. One of those ripples could become a tidal wave of positivity.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Source: </span><a href="http://www.dailyom.com/"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Daily Om</span></a></div>Frances, TDMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00274236416870252039noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9181525525572637486.post-48598518224643433152011-11-10T15:36:00.000+10:302011-11-10T15:36:36.625+10:30Remembrance Day<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eLW92ans0i0/Trtbv0yEkjI/AAAAAAAAD-8/jdKoJ8j2WBE/s1600/remembrance-day-poppy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200px" ida="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eLW92ans0i0/Trtbv0yEkjI/AAAAAAAAD-8/jdKoJ8j2WBE/s200/remembrance-day-poppy.jpg" width="177px" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;">At 5.00 am on 11 November 1918, three German Government representatives accepted the Armistice terms presented to them by an allied commander, General Foch of the French Army. The demands of the Armistice included the withdrawal of German forces to the east bank of the Rhine within 30 days; immediate cessation of warfare; and surrender of the German fleet and all heavy guns with no further negotiations until the signing of the peace treaty.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The armistice became effective at 11:00 am the same day, and as the guns fell silent on the Western Front in France and Belgium, four years of hostilities ended.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Remembrance Day is observed on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month. To acknowledge this important anniversary an one minute's silence is held to remember the sacrifice made by all involved, the armed forces as well as civilians in time of war.</div>Frances, TDMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00274236416870252039noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9181525525572637486.post-6964318975972510382011-10-23T08:44:00.000+10:302011-10-23T08:44:40.345+10:30An Unwavering Connection to the Infinite<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Your worth is not a product of your intelligence, your talent, your looks<o:p></o:p></span></span> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; tab-stops: 45.8pt 91.6pt 137.4pt 183.2pt 229.0pt 274.8pt 320.6pt 366.4pt 412.2pt 458.0pt 503.8pt 549.6pt 595.4pt 641.2pt 687.0pt 732.8pt; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">or how much you have accomplished.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; tab-stops: 45.8pt 91.6pt 137.4pt 183.2pt 229.0pt 274.8pt 320.6pt 366.4pt 412.2pt 458.0pt 503.8pt 549.6pt 595.4pt 641.2pt 687.0pt 732.8pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; tab-stops: 45.8pt 91.6pt 137.4pt 183.2pt 229.0pt 274.8pt 320.6pt 366.4pt 412.2pt 458.0pt 503.8pt 549.6pt 595.4pt 641.2pt 687.0pt 732.8pt;"><br />
</div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; tab-stops: 45.8pt 91.6pt 137.4pt 183.2pt 229.0pt 274.8pt 320.6pt 366.4pt 412.2pt 458.0pt 503.8pt 549.6pt 595.4pt 641.2pt 687.0pt 732.8pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Though much of who and what we are changes as we journey through life, our inherent worth remains constant. While the term self-worth is often used interchangeably with self-esteem, the two qualities are inherently different. Self-esteem is the measure of how you feel about yourself at a given moment in time. Your worth, however, is not a product of your intelligence, your talent, your looks, your good works, or how much you have accomplished. Rather it is immeasurable and unchanging manifestation of your eternal and infinite oneness with the universe. It represents the cornerstone of the dual foundations of optimism and self-belief.</span></span></div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a name='more'></a></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; tab-stops: 45.8pt 91.6pt 137.4pt 183.2pt 229.0pt 274.8pt 320.6pt 366.4pt 412.2pt 458.0pt 503.8pt 549.6pt 595.4pt 641.2pt 687.0pt 732.8pt; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; tab-stops: 45.8pt 91.6pt 137.4pt 183.2pt 229.0pt 274.8pt 320.6pt 366.4pt 412.2pt 458.0pt 503.8pt 549.6pt 595.4pt 641.2pt 687.0pt 732.8pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Your worth cannot be taken from you or damaged by life’s rigors, yet it can easily be forgotten or even actively ignored. By regularly acknowledging your self-worth, you can ensure that you never forget what an important, beloved, and special part of the universe you are.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; tab-stops: 45.8pt 91.6pt 137.4pt 183.2pt 229.0pt 274.8pt 320.6pt 366.4pt 412.2pt 458.0pt 503.8pt 549.6pt 595.4pt 641.2pt 687.0pt 732.8pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">You are born worthy—your worth is intertwined with your very being. Your concept of your own self-worth is thus reinforced by your actions. Each time you endeavor to appreciate yourself, treat yourself kindly, define your personal boundaries, be proactive in seeing that your needs are met, and broaden your horizons, you express your recognition of your innate value. During those periods when you have lost sight of your worth, you will likely feel mired in depression, insecurity, and a lack of confidence. </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; tab-stops: 45.8pt 91.6pt 137.4pt 183.2pt 229.0pt 274.8pt 320.6pt 366.4pt 412.2pt 458.0pt 503.8pt 549.6pt 595.4pt 641.2pt 687.0pt 732.8pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; tab-stops: 45.8pt 91.6pt 137.4pt 183.2pt 229.0pt 274.8pt 320.6pt 366.4pt 412.2pt 458.0pt 503.8pt 549.6pt 595.4pt 641.2pt 687.0pt 732.8pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">You will pursue a counterfeit worth based on judgment rather than the beauty that resides within. When you feel worthy, however, you will accept yourself without hesitation. It is your worth as an individual who is simultaneously interconnected with all living beings that allows you to be happy, confident, and motivated. Because your conception of your worth is not based on the fulfilment of expectations, you’ll see your mistakes and failures as just another part of life’s journey. </span></span><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></o:p></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; tab-stops: 45.8pt 91.6pt 137.4pt 183.2pt 229.0pt 274.8pt 320.6pt 366.4pt 412.2pt 458.0pt 503.8pt 549.6pt 595.4pt 641.2pt 687.0pt 732.8pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Human beings are very much like drops of water in an endless ocean. Our worth comes from our role as distinct individuals as well as our role as an integral part of something larger than ourselves. Simply awakening to this concept can help you rediscover the copious and awe-inspiring worth within each and every one of us.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; tab-stops: 45.8pt 91.6pt 137.4pt 183.2pt 229.0pt 274.8pt 320.6pt 366.4pt 412.2pt 458.0pt 503.8pt 549.6pt 595.4pt 641.2pt 687.0pt 732.8pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; tab-stops: 45.8pt 91.6pt 137.4pt 183.2pt 229.0pt 274.8pt 320.6pt 366.4pt 412.2pt 458.0pt 503.8pt 549.6pt 595.4pt 641.2pt 687.0pt 732.8pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; tab-stops: 45.8pt 91.6pt 137.4pt 183.2pt 229.0pt 274.8pt 320.6pt 366.4pt 412.2pt 458.0pt 503.8pt 549.6pt 595.4pt 641.2pt 687.0pt 732.8pt;"><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Source: Daily Om<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;"><br />
</div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span>Frances, TDMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00274236416870252039noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9181525525572637486.post-8081892271634045622011-09-30T09:41:00.000+09:302011-09-30T09:41:59.010+09:30Conscious Decisions - Going Against What Is Popular<div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8AHzHH2Tf8w/ToUJEU9_h0I/AAAAAAAAD6Q/J04wxc-6xOw/s1600/heart_soul.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8AHzHH2Tf8w/ToUJEU9_h0I/AAAAAAAAD6Q/J04wxc-6xOw/s200/heart_soul.jpg" width="153" /></a><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em>Because an idea or way of doing things is popular</em></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em>does not mean it is right for everyone.<o:p></o:p></em></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> <span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;"></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Just because an idea or way of doing things is popular does not mean it is right for everyone. However, part of the way that something becomes popular is that many of us do not take the time to determine what’s right for us; we simply do what most of the people we know are doing. In this way, our decisions about life are made by default, which means they are not what we call conscious decisions. There may be many other options available, but we do not always take the time to explore them. </span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This may be the result of feeling overwhelmed or pressured by family, peers, and humanity at large, to do things their way, the way things have always been done. </span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Regardless of the cause, it is important that, as often as we can, we decide for ourselves what to do with our lives rather than just drift along on the current of popular opinion. </span></span></div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a name='more'></a><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1w3pRN8cbWY/ToUI26HOE8I/AAAAAAAAD6M/WDJ2o1a1QgY/s1600/confusion_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1w3pRN8cbWY/ToUI26HOE8I/AAAAAAAAD6M/WDJ2o1a1QgY/s200/confusion_2.jpg" width="190" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It is not always easy to make decisions that go against the grain. Many people feel threatened when those close to them make choices divergent from the ones they are making. Parents and grandparents may be confused and defensive when we choose to raise our children differently from the way they raised us. Friends may feel abandoned if we decide to change our habits or behaviour. Meanwhile, on our side of the fence, it is easy to feel frustrated and defensive when we feel unsupported and misunderstood simply because we are thinking for ourselves. It can be exhausting to have to explain and re-explain our points of view and our reasons.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--JesXL1xhOU/ToUIyU4LKQI/AAAAAAAAD6I/0-HZ9h6mNiI/s1600/heart.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--JesXL1xhOU/ToUIyU4LKQI/AAAAAAAAD6I/0-HZ9h6mNiI/s200/heart.bmp" width="150" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; tab-stops: 45.8pt 91.6pt 137.4pt 183.2pt 229.0pt 274.8pt 320.6pt 366.4pt 412.2pt 458.0pt 503.8pt 549.6pt 595.4pt 641.2pt 687.0pt 732.8pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This is where gentleness, openness, and tolerance come into play. It helps if we are calmly persistent, consistent, and clear as we communicate to those around us why we are making the choices we are making. At the same time, we have the right to say that we are tired of talking about it and simply need our choices to be respected. </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; tab-stops: 45.8pt 91.6pt 137.4pt 183.2pt 229.0pt 274.8pt 320.6pt 366.4pt 412.2pt 458.0pt 503.8pt 549.6pt 595.4pt 641.2pt 687.0pt 732.8pt; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; tab-stops: 45.8pt 91.6pt 137.4pt 183.2pt 229.0pt 274.8pt 320.6pt 366.4pt 412.2pt 458.0pt 503.8pt 549.6pt 595.4pt 641.2pt 687.0pt 732.8pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Our lives belong to us and so do our decisions. Those who truly love us will stand by us and support our choices, never mind what is popular.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; tab-stops: 45.8pt 91.6pt 137.4pt 183.2pt 229.0pt 274.8pt 320.6pt 366.4pt 412.2pt 458.0pt 503.8pt 549.6pt 595.4pt 641.2pt 687.0pt 732.8pt; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; tab-stops: 45.8pt 91.6pt 137.4pt 183.2pt 229.0pt 274.8pt 320.6pt 366.4pt 412.2pt 458.0pt 503.8pt 549.6pt 595.4pt 641.2pt 687.0pt 732.8pt; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; tab-stops: 45.8pt 91.6pt 137.4pt 183.2pt 229.0pt 274.8pt 320.6pt 366.4pt 412.2pt 458.0pt 503.8pt 549.6pt 595.4pt 641.2pt 687.0pt 732.8pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Source: </span><a href="http://www.dailyom.com/"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Daily Om</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></div>Frances, TDMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00274236416870252039noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9181525525572637486.post-74645420361895221412011-09-24T16:55:00.000+09:302011-09-24T16:55:24.620+09:30Waves of Healing - Ocean Meditation<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em>There is much we can learn from the ocean </em></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><em><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">as we have a similar inner landscape </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">within us as well.</span></em></div><br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-z3v9uOcTys8/Tn2EiAHzcrI/AAAAAAAAD5w/-_0dgV-9B0c/s1600/Delaware+beach+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-z3v9uOcTys8/Tn2EiAHzcrI/AAAAAAAAD5w/-_0dgV-9B0c/s200/Delaware+beach+3.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Delaware Beach, South Australia</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Like us, the sea is ever-changing. And, like us, the earth’s vast oceans appear </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">at a distance to be stable and homogenous. But beneath the mask of solidity that both we and the sea wear, there lies unpredictability, sensitivity, and power. There is much we can learn from the ocean, representative as it is of our inner landscapes. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The rough sounds of the sea’s waves are spiritually soothing, and its salt can purify our physical selves. Yet not everyone has the luxury of living by the shore or even visiting the coastlines where water and land meet. The ocean, however, exists in our conscious minds, put there by images we have seen and descriptions we have read. Wherever we are, we can access that mental image and use it as the starting point from which we can help to heal our emotions by meditating on the sea.</span></div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a name='more'></a></span><br />
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</div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TB29G6uW7wQ/Tn2Eoda4QyI/AAAAAAAAD50/kk_8y6VMHm0/s1600/Delaware+beach+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TB29G6uW7wQ/Tn2Eoda4QyI/AAAAAAAAD50/kk_8y6VMHm0/s200/Delaware+beach+2.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Delaware Beach, South Australia</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">To begin, gather together any ocean artefacts you may have on hand. Seashells, </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">a vial of sand, beach glass, stones rubbed smooth by the pounding surf, or a recording of ocean sounds can help you slip more deeply into this meditation, but they are not necessary. Sit quietly and visualize the ocean in your mind’s eye. Allow all of your senses to participate in your mental journey. Feel the tiny grains of sand beneath your feet and the cool spray of mist; hear the sea’s rhythmic roar as the waves meet the beach and retreat; smell the tang of salt in the air. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Watch the sun’s rays play over the ocean’s surface, creating shifting spots of teal, cerulean, cobalt, and green. Do not be surprised if you see dolphins or whales frolicking in the waves—they are there to assist you. Spend a few minutes drinking in the ocean’s beauty and appreciating its vast splendour.</span></div><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-v2Gm1SvdGR0/Tn2EzT5HjTI/AAAAAAAAD54/ce42mrTyn_8/s1600/Tessellated+Beach+%25287%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-v2Gm1SvdGR0/Tn2EzT5HjTI/AAAAAAAAD54/ce42mrTyn_8/s200/Tessellated+Beach+%25287%2529.JPG" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><strong>Tessellated Pavement, Tasmania</strong></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">Once you are fully engaged with the setting before you, visualise yourself sitting </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">on the beach, facing the ocean, and watching the waves advance and</span> retreat. As each new wave of seawater approaches, imagine it carrying healing energy toward you. The magnificent ocean in your thoughts is sending you light and love while the sun supports your healing efforts and Mother Earth grounds you in the moment so healing can occur. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When you feel you are finished, grant the ocean your earnest gratitude for the aid it has given you. Thank the sun, the sand, and any other elements of your visualization that offered you guidance. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Perform this meditation daily or monthly in order to rid yourself of negativity and re-establish emotional equilibrium. Just as the ocean’s tides sweep the shores free of detritus, restoring balance, so can the waves in our mind’s eye cleanse our souls of what no longer serves us.</span></div><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"></span> <br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;">Source: <a href="http://www.dailyom.com/">Daily Om</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;">Photographs: Frances Billinghurst</span>Frances, TDMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00274236416870252039noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9181525525572637486.post-85712380747443752872011-09-24T16:40:00.001+09:302011-09-24T16:41:27.728+09:30Keeping our Minds Supple - Questioning Everything<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em>Being open-minded means that we are willing to question everything,</em></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em>including those things we take for granted.</em></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pe9k0WO_U_g/Tn2B45trKcI/AAAAAAAAD5k/9XZsLRGIz_w/s1600/heart.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pe9k0WO_U_g/Tn2B45trKcI/AAAAAAAAD5k/9XZsLRGIz_w/s200/heart.bmp" width="150" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A lot of people feel threatened if they feel they are being asked to question their cherished beliefs or their perception of reality. Yet questioning is what keeps our minds supple and strong. Simply settling on one way of seeing things and refusing to be open to other possibilities makes the mind rigid and generally creates a restrictive and uncomfortable atmosphere. We all know someone who refuses to budge on one or more issues, and we may have our own sacred cows that could use a little prodding.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Being open-minded means that we are willing to question everything, including those things we take for granted. </span></span></div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a name='more'></a><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A willingness to question everything, even things we are sure we are right about, can shake us out of complacency and reinvigorate our minds, opening us up to understanding people and perspectives that were alien to us before. This alone is good reason to remain inquisitive, no matter how much experience we have or how old we get. In the Zen tradition, this willingness to question is known as beginner’s mind, and it has a way of generating possibilities we couldn’t have seen from the point of view of knowing something with certainty. </span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The willingness to question everything doesn’t necessarily mean we don’t believe in anything at all, and it doesn’t mean we have to question every single thing in the world every minute of the day. It just means that we are humble enough to acknowledge how little we actually know about the mysterious universe we call home. </span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3avVMd3zYbo/Tn2B9ST1dnI/AAAAAAAAD5o/vOS_GciAKDw/s1600/pond.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="147" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3avVMd3zYbo/Tn2B9ST1dnI/AAAAAAAAD5o/vOS_GciAKDw/s200/pond.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;"></span><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-AU;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Nearly every revolutionary change in the history of human progress came about because someone questioned some time-honoured belief or tradition and in doing so revealed a new truth, a new way of doing things, or a new standard for ethical and moral behaviour. Just so, a commitment to staying open and inquisitive in our own individual lives can lead us to new personal revolutions and truths, truths that we will hopefully, for the sake of our growth, remain open to questioning.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Source: <a href="http://www.dailyom.com/">Daily Om</a></span></div>Frances, TDMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00274236416870252039noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9181525525572637486.post-42468433526484460812011-09-03T17:05:00.003+09:302011-09-04T08:49:40.465+09:30Understanding the Concept of Perfect Love and Perfect Trust<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-a8vRyHx6NLs/TmHYDG-FmgI/AAAAAAAAD5Y/JdQHimoXp6w/s1600/libra.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-a8vRyHx6NLs/TmHYDG-FmgI/AAAAAAAAD5Y/JdQHimoXp6w/s200/libra.bmp" width="200" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">One of the central phrases used within Wicca is the axiom of "Perfect Love and Perfect Trust". The origins of this phase is believed to have come from the <em>Rede of the Wiccae</em> allegedly penned by Lady Gwen Thomson and published in 1975. In the poem, we find the lines:</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em>"Bide the Wiccan Laws ye must, in perfect love and perfect trust ..."</em></span></div><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a name='more'></a><div style="text-align: justify;">Though often dismissed these days as unattainable, to act in accordance of the axiom of "Perfect Love and Perfect Trust" is still consisted an extremely important focus within groups such as the <a href="http://www.templedarkmoon.com/">Temple of the Dark Moon</a>. From the outset, "trust" is bestowed upon the individual as they are given entry to the covenstead of a working group, whether to attend a social function, an esbat or undertake training. This trust is that they will conduct themselves and act in a manner that is in accordance with their "True Will", and show the appropriate degree of respect and dignity that they would expect their own guest to show them if the situation was reversed.<br />
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<div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-z9JGP7DCIwk/TmHX8jQPWRI/AAAAAAAAD5U/BOfGVx6ezr4/s1600/maxinepaul%2526alex.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="158" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-z9JGP7DCIwk/TmHX8jQPWRI/AAAAAAAAD5U/BOfGVx6ezr4/s200/maxinepaul%2526alex.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: Arial;">"Trust" is also given in that any printed material provided is also treated with respect - that being, not shared to those who have not undertaken any form of training with the Temple unless permission by the Temple's High Priestess has been given.</span><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The "love" shown to those who have given entry to the covenstead shoud not be confused with the concept of "emotional" or even "sexual" love that most of us seek in a partner, but one of "unconditional" love, one that involves the opening of one's heart without any conditions and which again tends to be closely connected with "trust".</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">To the student, the concept of "Perfect Love and Perfect Trust" is shown in return from the outset in that the payment of teachings are often left up to the student to attend to - by placing any monetary donations in the appropriate container and/or other donations (usually in the form of canned food goods for charities such as the <a href="http://www.animalwelfare.com.au/">Animal Welfare League</a>) in the appropriate bag. There is no one marking off payment in any kind of book that goods have been received. "Trust" is placed upon the student that they respect the "conditions" of entry into the covenstead and in doing so, are happy to commit to the exchange of "energy" - a minimal fee/donation for time and knowledge shared.</span><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0f9Dmk31EaM/TmHX2kQGGaI/AAAAAAAAD5Q/wcr3aBIByRo/s1600/circle4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="155" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0f9Dmk31EaM/TmHX2kQGGaI/AAAAAAAAD5Q/wcr3aBIByRo/s200/circle4.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The ability to demonstrate such a concept assists the student at a later stage should they wish to gain entry into the Temple's Inner Court. This is often because of the very nature of the work undertaken here needs to be conducted in an environment where all members trusts implicity their fellow coven members. This, in itself, leads on to another axiom in that "what is said in the circle, stays within the circle".</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">"Trust" is something that can be hard and sometimes even difficult to earn - yet can be destroyed extremely quickly. In this day and age it can be a big expectation (on both parties) to show "Perfect Love and Perfect Trust" to complete strangers. It is for this reason that as part of our service to the Pagan community as a whole, the Temple of the Dark Moon offers <a href="http://templedarkmoon.blogspot.com/p/events-for-2011.html">various events</a> where initial meetings can take place.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">At the end of the day, after all of the above has been undertaken, should any person still demonstrate an unwillingness or inability to demonstrate "Perfect Love and Perfect Trust", then it would be strongly suggested that trainign with the Temple of the Dark Moon is not for them and that they seek training elsewhere.</span></div>Frances, TDMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00274236416870252039noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9181525525572637486.post-17399446671256746202011-08-26T16:48:00.004+09:302011-08-26T16:51:46.434+09:30The Mystical Phoenix<div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I thought I would share an article that I wrote for Insight magazine back in October 2005 about the phoenix ...</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HX2XAjBKb_k/TldINOX8p8I/AAAAAAAAD5A/D6Za4dpq1-4/s1600/phoenix+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HX2XAjBKb_k/TldINOX8p8I/AAAAAAAAD5A/D6Za4dpq1-4/s200/phoenix+2.jpg" width="148" /></a><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">"Like a phoenix from the flame, I will rise again …" so yelled Irish songstress Sinead O'Connor in the song "Troy" from her first album "<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">The Lion and the Cobra</i>".</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: justify;"><v:shapetype coordsize="21600,21600" filled="f" id="_x0000_t75" o:preferrelative="t" o:spt="75" path="m@4@5l@4@11@9@11@9@5xe" stroked="f"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> <v:stroke joinstyle="miter"> <v:formulas> <v:f eqn="if lineDrawn pixelLineWidth 0"> <v:f eqn="sum @0 1 0"> <v:f eqn="sum 0 0 @1"> <v:f eqn="prod @2 1 2"> <v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelWidth"> <v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelHeight"> <v:f eqn="sum @0 0 1"> <v:f eqn="prod @6 1 2"> <v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelWidth"> <v:f eqn="sum @8 21600 0"> <v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelHeight"> <v:f eqn="sum @10 21600 0"> </v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:f></v:formulas> <v:path gradientshapeok="t" o:connecttype="rect" o:extrusionok="f"> <o:lock aspectratio="t" v:ext="edit"> </o:lock></v:path></v:stroke></span></v:shapetype><v:shape alt="" id="il_fi" o:spid="_x0000_s1026" style="height: 195.1pt; left: 0px; margin-left: 0.2pt; margin-top: 65.9pt; position: absolute; text-align: left; width: 169.3pt; z-index: -2;" type="#_x0000_t75" wrapcoords="-43 0 -43 21562 21600 21562 21600 0 -43 0"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> <v:imagedata o:href="http://hornconcerto.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/07/phoenix_rising.jpg" src="file:///C:\Users\FRANCE~1\AppData\Local\Temp\msohtmlclip1\01\clip_image001.jpg"> <w:wrap type="tight"> </w:wrap></v:imagedata></span></v:shape><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The phoenix, a mystical bird most commonly believed to be of Arabic descent, is often described as being the size of an eagle, with a brilliant scarlet and golden plumage.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A popular medieval legend, which has been passed down to us today, states that after living for several centuries, the phoenix builds its own funeral pyre, and throws itself upon the flames to be burnt up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then, after a number of days, the phoenix emerges from the ashes (or flames, depending on the source of the legend).<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"> </span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span></div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It is this ability to renew itself that caused Pope Clement of Rome, in around 96 CE (common era), to suggest that the phoenix was evidence for the resurrection of the righteous.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A few centuries later, in 386 CE, Cyril of Jerusalem boldly proclaimed that God had created the phoenix in order to help man believe in the resurrection of Christ.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, as Barbara Walker points out, the phoenix is a purely mythical pseudo-bird, created by neither God nor nature.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She brings our attention to the Hebrew text, the Haggadah, where the phoenix is described as a vast Sun bird on whose wings were the letters: "Neither the Earth produces me, nor the heavens, but only the wings of fire".</span></div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Ms Walker believes that the phoenix more likely evolved from ancient Sun worship, where the imagery may have originated from the Egyptian horned wing Sun disc, however an earlier image comes from ancient Mesopotamian iconography where the Sun image appears more bird-like.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There, it was believed that the Sun flew on wings through the heavens and was constantly immolated and reborn from the fires of Sunset and Sunrise.</span></div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cTSyhpDWrLY/TldIIL0LNtI/AAAAAAAAD44/EIxuwSWkmpo/s1600/benu4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="153" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cTSyhpDWrLY/TldIIL0LNtI/AAAAAAAAD44/EIxuwSWkmpo/s200/benu4.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The ancient Egyptians identified the phoenix with their "bennu" bird, a heron sacred to Osiris, symbolising the human soul, as well as the God's cycle of rebirth or resurrection.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>According to a legend recorded on papyri, the bennu rose from a burning tree with such melodious song that even the Gods are transfixed by it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Thus, the bird became a symbol of the Sun God, Ra, and his rebirth each morning in a fiery glow of dawn.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In Phoenicia, when a king was cremated, his soul was released from his body above the pyre and took the shape of a bird, the phoenix, which some believe to be a representative of a God bearing the same name.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Egyptian pharaohs believed that a similar thing happened to them, only that their souls took the form of Horus, the hawk-headed God.</span></div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The first written account of the phoenix appeared in the works of Greek writer Herodotus (485-425 BCE), who related that as one bird died after 500 years, another took it to the Temple of the Sun at Heliopolis for burial.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This was later contradicted by both Ovid and Pliny the Elder, the latter suggested that the living phoenix constructed a nest of spices, upon which it incinerated itself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>From this a sort of maggot merged, which then developed into the progeny that took the ashes of the former bird in the nest to Heliopolis.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A later version still stated that the phoenix constructed its nest of spices and sang to the Sun God, who filled it with fire, consuming the bird.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>From the ashes a mature phoenix emerged, taking the ashes to the altar at Heliopolis.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Within the legends and traditions of both Greece and Rome, </span><v:shape alt="" id="_x0000_s1027" style="height: 172.4pt; left: 0px; margin-left: 338.35pt; margin-top: 44.25pt; mso-position-horizontal-relative: text; mso-position-vertical-relative: text; position: absolute; text-align: left; width: 169.25pt; z-index: -1;" type="#_x0000_t75" wrapcoords="-62 0 -62 21539 21600 21539 21600 0 -62 0"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> <v:imagedata o:href="http://www.china-family-adventure.com/images/chinese-dragon-and-phoenix.jpg" src="file:///C:\Users\FRANCE~1\AppData\Local\Temp\msohtmlclip1\01\clip_image003.jpg"> <w:wrap type="tight"> </w:wrap></v:imagedata></span></v:shape><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">the phoenix was the symbol of immortality and was portrayed on funerary furnishings.</span></div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-s2ENAGQqHxw/TldIK2lJt7I/AAAAAAAAD48/cxptVCSZ0qY/s1600/phoenix+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-s2ENAGQqHxw/TldIK2lJt7I/AAAAAAAAD48/cxptVCSZ0qY/s200/phoenix+1.jpg" width="196" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Images of the phoenix also appeared in the East for in Chinese mythology the bird symbolises high virtue and grace, and well as prosperity.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It encapsulates the union of yin and yang (the masculine and feminine energies), and is associated the Sun and the Moon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If the phoenix is depicted next to a dragon (which represents supreme spirituality to the Chinese), the phoenix was said to represent the undivided nature of imperial power, while as a piece of jewellery, shows that the wearer is of high moral values or of importance.<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"> </span></span></div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The major difference between the Arabic and the Chinese phoenix is that the Chinese version is depicted as having a large bill, neck of a snake, back of a tortoise, and the tail of a fish.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is also said to carry two scrolls in its bill, and its feathers are those of the five fundamental colours to the Chinese – black, white, red, green, and yellow.</span></div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">From the various myths that come to us from all around the world, the phoenix appears to have captured the imagination of many cultures, and is still an extremely powerful image today.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">References: </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;">"The Woman's Dictionary of Symbols and Sacred Objects" by Barbara Walker</span><br />
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</tbody></table>Frances, TDMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00274236416870252039noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9181525525572637486.post-38737511010985665892011-08-25T16:48:00.002+09:302011-08-25T16:49:23.457+09:30Affirming an Abundant Future<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em>Squirrel medicine reminds us to set aside a portion of our most precious resources</em></span><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eOL2GLP_ZVQ/TlX17B6HqjI/AAAAAAAAD4s/uLjy5shN5Bw/s1600/squirrel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><em><img border="0" height="148" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eOL2GLP_ZVQ/TlX17B6HqjI/AAAAAAAAD4s/uLjy5shN5Bw/s200/squirrel.jpg" width="200" /></em></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em>as an investment in the future.</em></span></div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br />
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Native Americans considered all living beings as brothers and sisters that had much to teach including squirrels. These small creatures taught them to work in harmony with the cycles of nature by conserving for the winter months during times when food was plentiful.</div><a name='more'></a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In our modern world, squirrels remind us to set aside a portion of our most precious resources as an investment in the future. Though food and money certainly fall into this category, they are only some of the ways our energy is manifested. We can conserve this most valuable asset by being aware of the choices we make and choosing only those that nurture and sustain us. This extends to the natural resources of our planet as well, using what we need wisely with the future in mind.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Saving and conservation are not acts of fear but rather affirmations of abundance yet to come. Squirrels accept life’s cycles, allowing them to face winters with the faith that spring will come again. Knowing that change is part of life, we can create a safe space, both spiritually and physically, that will support us in the present and sustain us in the future. This means not filling our space with things, or thoughts, that don’t serve us. Without hoarding more than we need, we keep ourselves in the cyclical flow of life when we donate our unwanted items to someone who can use them best. This allows for more abundance to enter our lives, because even squirrels know a life of abundance involves more than just survival. </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bwBQtspSkqQ/TlX2yyQjC0I/AAAAAAAAD40/iyNFo8isWgg/s1600/yellow-water-lagoon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bwBQtspSkqQ/TlX2yyQjC0I/AAAAAAAAD40/iyNFo8isWgg/s200/yellow-water-lagoon.jpg" width="197" /></a></div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Squirrels use their quick, nervous energy to enjoy life’s adventure. They are great communicators, and by helping each other watch for danger, they do not allow worry to drain them. Instead, they allow their curious nature to lead the way, staying alert to opportunities and learning as they play. Following the example set by our squirrel friends, we are reminded to enjoy the journey of life’s cycles as we plan and prepare for a wonderful future, taking time to learn and play along the way. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;">Source: <a href="http://www.dailyom.com/">Daily Om</a></span></div>Frances, TDMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00274236416870252039noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9181525525572637486.post-50951340512748142872011-08-23T14:28:00.001+09:302011-08-23T14:30:51.031+09:30Prayer of Awaking<div style="text-align: justify;">Feeling a bit stressed out? Something just isn't quite right but you can't seem to put your finger on it? Well, Imbolc has passed and we are now moving towards the Spring Equinox. As we do so, the energies shift around again, it is little wonder that things are feel out of sorts.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KE3u1IPCL4M/TlMzGCRHcnI/AAAAAAAAD4k/FcuHjicU2eU/s1600/Isis_holding_Sistrum.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="188" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KE3u1IPCL4M/TlMzGCRHcnI/AAAAAAAAD4k/FcuHjicU2eU/s200/Isis_holding_Sistrum.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">As I am finding myself waking earlier (along with the sun and the birds nesting outside my bedroom window), in the early mornings hours while the world still seems very much asleep, I like to spend this time atuning with Deity.<br />
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This usually involves lighting a candle on my personal altar (that is not used within the main covenstead) and performing a small rite so that I can have some "me" time with Deity.<br />
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The following "Prayer of Awakening" is one of my favourites - taken from <em>The Mysteries of Isis</em> by deTraci Regula, where she also has a version in Egyptian. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Prayer of Awakening</strong></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Anyone can perform this rite. It is best performed in the morning, although this rite can be performed at any time and under any conditions. The shaking of the sistrum to open and close your observance can be added.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
Awake, awake, awake </div><div style="text-align: justify;">Awake in peace </div><div style="text-align: justify;">Awake in beauty </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AfvyIGhwbTk/TlMzJAnQFMI/AAAAAAAAD4o/VBl8FBUjoJI/s1600/isisaltar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="289" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AfvyIGhwbTk/TlMzJAnQFMI/AAAAAAAAD4o/VBl8FBUjoJI/s320/isisaltar.jpg" width="320" /></a>Lady of Peace </div><div style="text-align: justify;">Rise thou in peace </div><div style="text-align: justify;">Rise thou in beauty </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
Goddess of Life </div><div style="text-align: justify;">Beautiful in heaven </div><div style="text-align: justify;">Heaven is in peace </div><div style="text-align: justify;">Earth is in peace </div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;">O Goddess </div><div style="text-align: justify;">Daughter of Nut </div><div style="text-align: justify;">Daughter of Geb </div><div style="text-align: justify;">Beloved of Osiris </div><div style="text-align: justify;">Goddess rich in names </div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;">All praise to you </div><div style="text-align: justify;">All praise to you </div><div style="text-align: justify;">I adore you </div><div style="text-align: justify;">I adore you </div><div style="text-align: justify;">Lady Isis </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">After the prayer is recited, stand in silence for a moment. If you can, leave a candle burning all the time - I don't as by now it is usually time for me to start getting ready for work. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
This morning rite will help you achieve the energies of Isis. You can alter the wording to suit your own preferences and/or Deity.</div>Frances, TDMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00274236416870252039noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9181525525572637486.post-85825077636635304542011-08-17T07:58:00.001+09:302011-08-17T07:58:37.147+09:30In Line with Spirit - Staying on Track<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VDpseFd0fio/Tkru1BgiDAI/AAAAAAAAD4A/nYwNpme-BFg/s1600/spiritual-moon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="140" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VDpseFd0fio/Tkru1BgiDAI/AAAAAAAAD4A/nYwNpme-BFg/s200/spiritual-moon.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em>In a world where we have routines to get everything done, </em></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em>we rarely have a routine for our spiritual self.</em></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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In a world where we have routines for nearly everything - our route to work, our physical fitness regimen, and our weekday schedule - it’s amazing how many people forget to create a routine for meeting their spiritual needs. We run around in an attempt to be at our many appointments on time and meet our many obligations. In our efforts to be as productive as possible, however, our spiritual needs tend to take a backseat. After all, taking care of our spiritual needs doesn’t directly pay the bills or tone our abdominal muscles. </span></div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We may even wonder who has time to meditate or write in their journal when there are more pressing matters to see to. The truth is that nurturing ourselves spiritually is what gives us the energy and grounding that we need to make sure that our lives stay on track. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_lOJ1PGewnM/TkrusALuYoI/AAAAAAAAD38/hR510fsDbBo/s1600/heart+self.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="141" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_lOJ1PGewnM/TkrusALuYoI/AAAAAAAAD38/hR510fsDbBo/s200/heart+self.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">How you choose to nurture yourself spiritually is a personal choice. For some people, meditating once a day may be what they need to stay centered. While spending 10 to 20 minutes with your eyes closed and your brain devoid of thought may seem like a lot of time doing nothing, this state of nothingness actually allows you to stay calm and focused so you can be as productive as possible. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Writing in your journal everyday lets you stay in touch with yourself so that you are always tuned in to your feelings. Repeating affirmations for success, happiness, and well-being on a regular basis can help you live with optimism and enthusiasm and create what you want in life.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Having a routine for nurturing your spirit that you do each day lets you feed energy to your soul and can serve you well if your life suddenly takes an unexpected turn into a difficult period. This kind of routine grounds your spirit in your body so that you stay anchored in yourself as you move through each day. Nurturing yourself spiritually allows you to not only stay on track in your life, but it allows for your life to stay on track with what your spirit wants.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Source: </span><a href="http://www.dailyom.com/"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Daily Om</span></a></div>Frances, TDMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00274236416870252039noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9181525525572637486.post-25308512959600379632011-07-23T12:01:00.001+09:302011-07-23T12:01:51.962+09:30Nine Ways to Help Awaken Consciousness<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kqr3xVKnPHg/TioxyGSXcAI/AAAAAAAAD1w/_uz0RHTM8Fw/s1600/aura+shield.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kqr3xVKnPHg/TioxyGSXcAI/AAAAAAAAD1w/_uz0RHTM8Fw/s200/aura+shield.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">By simply being yourself, you can help the people in your life see a living example of consciousness.<br />
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1. Living by your values allows you to become a positive source of inspiration for others. Don’t hide – express yourself and embrace life without reservation. By simply being yourself, you can help the people in your life see how one person can make a difference by being a living example of consciousness.</span></div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a name='more'></a><br />
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2. When you communicate your views, do so casually and in a nondogmatic manner. Allow the people you speak with to ask questions. Offer only as much information as they are ready to hear.<br />
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3. Igniting the spark of consciousness can be as easy as giving someone a gift. A favorite book, a medicine bag, or a beautiful gemstone can pique your loved ones’ curiosity and prompt them to begin an exploration of the soul.</span><br />
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4. Teaching a friend, relative, or colleague to meditate or chant can put them on the path to consciousness while simultaneously reducing their stress levels. </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> <br />
5. Others may want to know more about living consciously but are unsure of how to begin. Starting a discussion group – even a virtual one – can help you reach out to individuals that are eager to learn.<br />
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6. By recognizing and acknowledging the inherent value in everyone you encounter, you can teach them how to value others. Sometimes, the easiest way to encourage people – even challenging ones - to respect others is to respect them first.<br />
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7. Invite people from your personal and professional lives to join you in attending a ceremony or ritual. The experience may touch them in a profound way or introduce them to a new spiritual path. </span></div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> 8. Casually point out the interconnectedness of all living beings using concrete, everyday examples. Many people are unaware of how their actions affect the world and are intrigued when they learn of the power they hold.<br />
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9. Introduce your loved ones to conscious living in a lighthearted and enjoyable way. Serve delicious organic recipes at gatherings, volunteer as a group, and show them how wonderful it can feel to be truly aware and connected to the universe.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Source: </span><a href="http://www.dailyom.com/"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Daily Om</span></a></div>Frances, TDMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00274236416870252039noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9181525525572637486.post-90500891294828531572011-07-22T18:34:00.003+09:302011-07-22T18:47:10.952+09:30Making Sense of it all with "Covensense"<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VNpmPIQKwxo/Tik_22U7xGI/AAAAAAAAD1k/u8msTBqflqs/s1600/crowther.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VNpmPIQKwxo/Tik_22U7xGI/AAAAAAAAD1k/u8msTBqflqs/s200/crowther.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>It is always a joy to be reading a book that is funny, yet informative, not to mention insightful - and my current reading material, that being "<em>Covensense</em>" by Patricia Crowther (Robert Hale, 2009) is proving to be just that.<br />
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Crowther, for those not aware of who she is, was initiated into Wicca in 1960 by Gerald Gardner. Along with the likes of Doreen Valiente, Lois Bourne, and Eleanor Bone, Crowther is often consider to be one of the "early mothers" of Wicca.<br />
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Together with her late husband Arnold (who died in 1974), Crowther established what came to be known as the Sheffield Coven in 1961.<br />
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The author of many books (including two that have found their way into the Temple's own library "<em>Lid of the Cauldron</em>" and "<em>The Zodiac</em> <em>Experience</em>", this latest book is written along the lines of questions and answers - allowing Crowther's extensive knowledge and personal experience about the Craft to come through.<br />
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Well worth the read - I found a copy in my local library - and probably just as well as it does come with a slightly expensive price seemingly being available only in hardcover.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;">For more information about Mrs Crowther, visit</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.themystica.com/mystica/articles/c/crowther_patricia_c.html">http://www.themystica.com/mystica/articles/c/crowther_patricia_c.html</a> or</div><div style="text-align: justify;">http://www.controverscial.com/Patricia%20Crowther.htm </div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div>Frances, TDMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00274236416870252039noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9181525525572637486.post-8528055779388398722011-07-22T18:31:00.001+09:302011-07-22T18:32:16.716+09:30Things we cannot Control<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tVuCOGh28O0/Tik7rCmQ1GI/AAAAAAAAD1U/pk2PeVteNms/s1600/trust.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tVuCOGh28O0/Tik7rCmQ1GI/AAAAAAAAD1U/pk2PeVteNms/s320/trust.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em>We develop grace as we learn with the guiding hand of the Universe, </em></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em>life will unfold exactly the way it should</em>.</span></div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br />
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The idea of trusting the Universe is a popular one these days, but many of us do not know what this really means and we often have a hard time doing it. This is partly because the story of humankind is most often presented as a story about struggle, control, and survival, instead of one of trust and collaboration with the Universe.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Yet, in truth, we need to adhere to both ideas in this life.</div><a name='more'></a><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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On the one hand, there is much to be said about exerting control over our environment. We created shelter to protect ourselves from the elements. We hunted for animals and invented agriculture to feed ourselves. <br />
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We built social infrastructures to protect ourselves and create community. This is how we survive and grow as a civilization. However, it is also clear that there are plenty of things that we cannot control, no matter how hard we try, and we often receive support from an unseen force – a Universe that provides us with what we cannot provide for ourselves. <br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5ArAXHkqEsc/Tik7yO7u1aI/AAAAAAAAD1Y/G02SRjHxsmA/s1600/heart.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5ArAXHkqEsc/Tik7yO7u1aI/AAAAAAAAD1Y/G02SRjHxsmA/s200/heart.bmp" width="150" /></a>It is a good idea to take responsibility for the things in life that we can control or create. We work so we can feed, clothe, and shelter our loved ones and ourselves. We manifest our dreams and visions in physical form with hard work and forethought. But at a certain point, when we have done all that we can, we must let go and allow the Universe to take over. This requires trust. It requires a trust that runs deeper than just expecting things to turn out the way we want them to. Sometimes they will, and sometimes they won’t. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">We develop equanimity and grace as we learn to trust that, with the guiding hand of the Universe, life will unfold exactly the way it should. We are engaged in an ongoing relationship with a Universe that responds to our thoughts and actions.</div></span><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Source: <a href="http://www.dailyom.com/">Daily Om</a></div>Frances, TDMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00274236416870252039noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9181525525572637486.post-45950641064885513232011-07-10T20:01:00.003+09:302012-04-13T13:38:18.242+09:30A key to personal development<div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-k2z8WXtm9rM/T4emo2va7UI/AAAAAAAAEZE/sNnfMzX2-jE/s1600/ab.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" qda="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-k2z8WXtm9rM/T4emo2va7UI/AAAAAAAAEZE/sNnfMzX2-jE/s200/ab.jpg" width="131" /></a></div>One book that I have enjoyed reading in recent times is <em>Abrahadabra: Understanding Aleister’s Thelemic Magick</em> by Rodney Orpheus (which is probably obvious considering this is my second posting about this book). Within this book, I came across a passage that I have adapted for a more Wiccan focus, however regardless of what spiritual path one is following, I believe it gives much thought ...</div><br />
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<div style="text-align: justify;">"One of the keys to Wicca is personal development. This means you have to do the work yourself. Simply reading books and/or web sites is not good enough. While this may increase your theoretical knowledge (or then again may totally confuse you further), unless you do it, you are wasting your time. Knowledge is not the same thing as understanding."</div><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">It is only through personal experience that you yourself can access what are termed as the "Mysteries" contained within Wicca - no teacher, regardless of how wonderful they may be, can experience these Mysteries for you ... nor can their interpretation be 100% relevant for you. </div><a name='more'></a><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">It is YOU who needs to walk through the door that they hold open. And whilst they can help you in the interpretation, like dreams and other messages etc, at the end of the day, the ultimate understanding can only come from you. This is simply because it is YOUR path and the message is for you.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-g5ljz_LJ9sE/Thl_UsNn4jI/AAAAAAAAD1Q/RZai7pv4lss/s1600/air_earth_water_new_spiritual_fire-of-Gaia-sml%25252011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" m$="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-g5ljz_LJ9sE/Thl_UsNn4jI/AAAAAAAAD1Q/RZai7pv4lss/s200/air_earth_water_new_spiritual_fire-of-Gaia-sml%25252011.jpg" width="153" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Taking that first step at times can be rather frightening - it does take courage and inner strength - as well as a degree of belief in what you are doing as well as your own self. However the rewards received can be so much more - such as a greater understanding of the self (that is, your self ... your inner being).</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Putting what you have read or been taught into practice can be as simple as taking 10-15 minutes out for yourself at lunchtime to become aware of your surroundings (thus heightening your awareness), reciting a chant or invocation and thinking about what the words actuall mean, or if there are specific gestures performed, how they work in channelling and moving the life force, prana, chi. Even simply focusing on your breath, learning to breathe "properly", using the whole diaphragm as opposed to only the top portion of your lungs.</div>Frances, TDMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00274236416870252039noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9181525525572637486.post-8936773925092830892011-07-03T21:08:00.001+09:302011-07-03T21:08:44.490+09:30Your Perfect Teacher - Life<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ak9m0JLrq0s/ThBUTHdjuhI/AAAAAAAAD04/0it65k5cF1c/s1600/spiritual-moon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="140px" i$="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ak9m0JLrq0s/ThBUTHdjuhI/AAAAAAAAD04/0it65k5cF1c/s200/spiritual-moon.jpg" width="200px" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Many of us long to find a spiritual teacher or guru. We may feel unsure of how to practice our spirituality without one, or we may long for someone who has attained a higher level of insight to lead the way for us. Some of us have been looking for years to no avail and feel frustrated and even lost. The good news is that the greatest teacher you could ever want is always with you—that is your life. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The people and situations we encounter every day have much to teach us when we are open to receiving their wisdom. Often we don’t recognize our teachers because they may not look or act like our idea of a guru, yet they may embody great wisdom. In addition, some people teach us by showing us what we don’t want to do. All the situations in our lives, from the insignificant to the major, conspire to teach us exactly what we need to be learning at any given time. Patience, compassion, perseverance, honesty, letting go—all these are covered in the classroom of the teacher that is your life. </div><a name='more'></a><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qnCVT0R8aK4/ThBUDv2LMVI/AAAAAAAAD0w/Aj-jMUbam98/s1600/vcm_s_kf_m160_122x160.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200px" i$="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qnCVT0R8aK4/ThBUDv2LMVI/AAAAAAAAD0w/Aj-jMUbam98/s200/vcm_s_kf_m160_122x160.jpg" width="152px" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">We can help ourselves to remember this perfect teacher each day with a few simple words. Each morning we might find a moment to say, "I acknowledge and honor the teacher that is my life. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">May I be wise enough to recognize the teachers and lessons that I encounter today, and may I be open to receiving their wisdom." We might also take some time each day to consider what our lives are trying to teach us at this time. A difficult phase in your relationship with your child may be teaching you to let go. The homeless person you see every day may be showing you the boundaries of your compassion and generosity.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">A spate of lost items may be asking you to be more present to physical reality. Trust your intuition on the nature of the lesson at hand, work at your own pace, and ask as many questions as you want. Your life has all the answers.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Source: <a href="http://www.dailyom.com/">Daily Om</a></div>Frances, TDMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00274236416870252039noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9181525525572637486.post-4015350762985344212011-07-03T21:03:00.002+09:302011-07-03T21:04:23.920+09:30Creating Our Own RealityI came across the following article by Robin Wood (http://www.robinwood.com/index.html) who is the creator of the first deck of tarot cards (the Robin Wood tarot) that I purchased myself.<br />
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Creating Our Own Reality<br />
© Robin Wood 2005<br />
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It’s completely true that we create our own reality.<br />
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Not because we get to choose what happens to us; few of us are that lucky.<br />
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But because we get to choose how we perceive what happens to us.<br />
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We are in complete control of this. All we have to do is see things the way we wish to see them.<br />
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All we have to change is our minds.<br />
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Say we both wake up to a sink full of dirty dishes we didn’t use.<br />
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You see lazy, inconsiderate people who leave their messes for you to clean up.<br />
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I see a chance to play with water and soap bubbles.<br />
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Which of us will be less stressed? Which of us will be happier with the people we live with? Which of us will have a better day?<br />
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Which kind of perceptions will you choose?<br />
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Deliberately have fun, as you go through your day. Find something to enjoy in every thing you do. Smile, laugh, and joke a lot. Delight in the sunshine sparkling on the cars in the parking lot. Notice the shapes of the clouds. Enjoy the wheel of shadows caused by the interaction of the office lighting and your coffee cup. Look at the recalcitrant vending machines as challenging games; if you put your dollar bill in just right, you win!<br />
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Fix what you can fix, repair what you can repair, walk away from stressful things you can walk away from.<br />
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If you can alter a situation for the better, then alter it.<br />
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But if you can’t change the circumstances, change your mind!<br />
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And watch your stress melt away.Frances, TDMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00274236416870252039noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9181525525572637486.post-53904351780448528612011-07-01T07:57:00.003+09:302011-07-01T07:58:52.323+09:30Horns of Power: Manifestations of the Horned God<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Lwwi4CsWDyk/Tgz36BvDnuI/AAAAAAAAD0k/Odji6KVaiHg/s1600/hornsofpower.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200px" i$="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Lwwi4CsWDyk/Tgz36BvDnuI/AAAAAAAAD0k/Odji6KVaiHg/s200/hornsofpower.jpg" width="123px" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;">It is often said that despite the seemingly wealth of information avaailable of all aspects of Paganism, there is one area in particular that tends to be overlooked - that of the God, the Divine Masculine. Luckily for us, however, the team at <a href="http://avaloniabooks.co.uk/221/">Avalonia Publishing</a> recognised this gap when they produced an anthology of articles and poems back in 2008 entitled “<em>Horns of Power: Manifestations of the Horned God</em>” (edited by Sorita d’Este).</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
With Marc Potts’s wonderful painting of “Herne” painting glaring out from the cover, this book is truly something special. The series of articles, impregnated with illustrations, photographs and even guided visualisations, are well research and provide the reader with a wealth of information about this rather overlooked aspect within modern Paganism, and in particular Wicca.</div><a name='more'></a><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-X8CgqGqrLJo/Tgz4ArET_0I/AAAAAAAAD0o/NoQ4Z3MjZM8/s1600/horned+god++michael+ivan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200px" i$="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-X8CgqGqrLJo/Tgz4ArET_0I/AAAAAAAAD0o/NoQ4Z3MjZM8/s200/horned+god++michael+ivan.jpg" width="144px" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Written from both scholarly as well as personal experiences, the articles contained within this book (re)introduce the reader to the Deity our ancestors viewed as encapsulating the wild essence of life and nature. From the better known Celtic Cernunnos, Herne the Hunter of Windsor forest and the Greek goat-footed God Pan, through to lesser known Gods such as the Slavic Veles and Egyptian Khnum, this book offers up something for almost everyone. Also included is an interpretation of the Irish Táin Bó Cúailnge ("Cattle Raid of Cooley”), a look at the faery Puck and horned serpents in general even get a mention.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The final chapter brings a feminine slant to things as a matter of duality and completeness by acknowledging the horned Goddess – from those associated the Moon such as Hekate and Artemis, to even an antlered Goddess by the name of Elen. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">With my personal bias that I have towards Sorita and her husband, David Rankine, aside, this book goes a long way in filling a much needed gap and is a definite must for any Pagan bookshelf. It can be ordered direct from <a href="http://avaloniabooks.co.uk/221/">Avalonia Publishing</a></div>Frances, TDMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00274236416870252039noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9181525525572637486.post-86514179172305007282011-06-29T07:54:00.001+09:302011-06-29T07:55:06.193+09:30Let it Flow - Tears<div style="text-align: justify;">The messages from Daily Om that appear in my email box never fail to amazed me as to how relevant the topic is. They often appear after a thought has crossed my mind or news received, offering their words of wisdom and advice uncanningly when needed. Other people have almost commented on the wise words received from Daily Om and how relevant they seem to be at the time of reading.</div><br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fpy-lyPJtCE/TgpTsYK--fI/AAAAAAAAD0A/RHlRkk_g-HI/s1600/tear.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="132px" i$="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fpy-lyPJtCE/TgpTsYK--fI/AAAAAAAAD0A/RHlRkk_g-HI/s200/tear.jpg" width="200px" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: center;"><em>Tears are as natural to us as breathing</em></div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>and there is beauty in allowing yourself to be open to the pain of tears.</em></div><br />
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<div style="text-align: justify;">How wonderful it feels to give in and let tears flow when we are overwhelmed with emotions, whether we are happy or sad. Tears come from the soul, from our well of feelings rising from deep down. When we give in to the prickling behind our eyes and the lump in our throat to let teardrops fall from our eyes, we allow our feelings to surface so they can be set free. </div><a name='more'></a><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-L_CiIjlNkHg/TgpTvH398jI/AAAAAAAAD0E/sejP9_-VqCE/s1600/tears-of-love-photomanipulation.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="156px" i$="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-L_CiIjlNkHg/TgpTvH398jI/AAAAAAAAD0E/sejP9_-VqCE/s200/tears-of-love-photomanipulation.jpg" width="200px" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Proud parents shed tears of pride in a child’s accomplishments, a baby’s first step, birthdays, and graduations. Long lost friends fall into each other’s arms, tears rolling down their cheeks when they reunite after years of separation. Tears may flow from us when we are witness to a commitment being made at a wedding or even while we are watching a love story. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Tears of relief may spring forth from our eyes when we hear that a loved one has survived an ordeal, and tears may fall when we bow our head in sorrow over a loss or death. Tears born from heartache can flow like they’ll never cease, whether our tears are for a love that is over, a friendship lost, or an opportunity missed. We shed tears because of disappointment in ourselves, tragedy in the world, pain, and illness. Tears of anger can burn with emotion as they fall down our faces. Tears offer us a physical release of our feelings. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6l39T6HNIAc/TgpTovtHO7I/AAAAAAAADz8/THiSRvEXwEw/s1600/sad-hug.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="138px" i$="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6l39T6HNIAc/TgpTovtHO7I/AAAAAAAADz8/THiSRvEXwEw/s200/sad-hug.jpg" width="200px" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Shedding tears can sometimes make us feel better, although it can feel like the tears will never end once the floodgates are open. There is no shame in letting tears flow freely and frequently. Tears are as natural to us as is breathing. There is beauty in allowing yourself to be vulnerable enough to shed tears. Open up, release your tears, and let your feelings flow. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Source: <a href="http://www.dailyom.com/">Daily Om</a></div>Frances, TDMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00274236416870252039noreply@blogger.com1