A Favorite Solstice Ritual by Flash Silvermoon

A Favorite Solstice Ritual

Flash Silvermoon shares her thoughts for the Winter Solstice.

Along with jumping over the fire to affirm one's new path, which is a wonderful tried and true ritual, I have created a fun and third eye opening ritual for Yule.

Tell all who come to your circle to bring a wrapped gift of something that they want to pass on. It needn't be new but it can be and not too expensive - just something you want to pass on. These gifts are placed in a box or sack in the center of the group.

The Priestess or another group member places a lovely blindfold over the first woman’s eyes and then she reaches into the sack. She lets the gift pick her. At this point she uses psychometry (a form of object reading where the diviner tunes into the object and gets impressions of the gift or giver) to divine the message from the gift etc.

After she does this, the woman who placed the gift in the bag removes the blindfold. She gives her a kiss and a sip of Mead or other drink in the Chalice After explaining something about the gift the "giver" dons the blindfold aided by the gifted. This exercise continues until all the gifts are removed from the bag. Whoever hosts the circle might want to always have a few extra gifts in case someone comes empty handed.

In my Circles this has always been a favorite Holy Day Ritual as the Yule logs burn warm into the Longest Night and we welcome the return of the SUN full of Holy Day cheer and renewed hope and inspiration.

THIS YEAR WE ASK ESPECIALLY FOR PEACE TO EMBRACE THE PLANET FOR ALL PLEASE JOIN US WHERE EVERE YOU ARE.

Blessed Be

Flash Silvermoon

The Wise Woman's Tarot

Art by Orna Ben-Shoshan

Please visit Orna Ben-Shoshan’s website at: http://www.ben-shoshan.com to see more beautiful pieces. There is a tab to read short essays that give the metaphysical background and philosophy behind them. There are also a couple of new full length articles and video presentations. Another exciting feature is the Kabbalistic art amulets, based on the “72 Names of God”. Each amulet contains my art with a three letter combination. You’ll find it interesting to read the interpretation and purpose of each amulet.

"Three Optimistic Angels"

Oil on canvas
Size: 70x120
Date Completed: 2009

 

"Three Wise Men"

 

 

Oil on canvas
Size: 40x50 cm
Date Completed: 2007(sold)

 

"Star Catchers"

 

 

Giclee print on canvas
Date completed: 2004

ABOUT THE ARTIST

Alternative Realities lie parallel to the world we are familiar with.

Orna Ben-Shoshan's artwork gives the viewer a rare and insightful visit to places beyond consciousness. Her paintings release the imagination and extend the limits of ordinary perception. In her colorful scenes, which take place in a distant world, creatures and objects interact in unpredictable ways and are uninfluenced by the laws of physics.

Artist Orna Ben-shoshan receives the images she paints through channeling. Unlike most artists, all of her paintings are completed in her mind before she transfers them onto the canvas. Orna's works infuse deep spiritual experience with subtle humor.

Critics remark that each of her pieces is a world unto itself. The images are executed with intricate detail and seasoned by a multitude of colors and decorative patterns that are influenced by her work as a designer. During her career as a fine artist for the past twenty years, Orna has created a large body of work and is presently focusing on oil paintings. In addition to oil paintings, she creates computer art. These images are transformed into hand-decorated prints on canvas. Currently she also works as a freelance illustrator and textile designer.

Orna Ben-Shoshan was born in Kibbutz Yifaat, Israel, in 1956. She received her training as a graphic designer in Tel-Aviv. In 1982 she moved to the U.S. where she lived for fifteen years.

Since her first one person show in 1983 (Lancaster, PA) Orna has exhibited her work in museums and galleries throughout the U.S. and abroad, including "ART EXPO N.Y." in 1996. She has recieved several awards, such as the "Grumbacher Award" from the Copley Society of Boston. Her work was published in "Yoga Journal" and by "Recycled Paper Products". She is also featured in the 10th edition of "The Encyclopedia of Living Artists".

Orna returned to Israel in 1996 where she is continuing to work from her studio in Ra'anana. Her first one person show in Israel took place at "Tzavta", Tel-Aviv, in 1998 and won remarkable reviews. Since then, she has been exhibiting her art at numerous one-person and group shows in Israel and Europe.

View her artwork and become enchanted by an astounding world, where anything is possible. Snatch this opportunity to enrich your imagination, expand your horizons and become familiar with a rapidly rising and talented artist. You will be captivated, exited, enthralled and inspired...

Ethics & Professional Practice for Neopagan Clergy by Katherine MacDowell - A Book Review by Bendis

Ethics & Professional Practice for Neopagan Clergy by Katherine MacDowell, D.Div.,D.Th.,MA, M.Ed., HP, Sh,OCP

Reviewed by Deanne Quarrie

 

Ethics & Professional Practice for Neopagan Clergy is the first text of its kind, designed to provide an in-depth exploration of the parameters of ministerial practice and the importance of such practice being grounded within an ethical framework. Specifically designed for clergy and clergy-in-training, Ethics & Professional Practice seeks to provide critical guidance, exploring issues such as:

* An introduction to the philosophy of ethics;

* Discussion on values, virtues, & worldviews;

* Professional parameters of practice, including an in-depth discussion on the role of pastoral counselor;

* Introduction to religious developmental theory with spiritual care tips;

* Ethical issues associated with money, sex, working with children & adolescents; Introduction to ethical dilemmas & problem-solving;

* Developing an ethics code & more ...

Complete with case studies, questions for contemplation, diagrams for decision-making, and ample journal activities, Ethics & Professional Practice for Neopagan Clergy empowers the religious professional to feel confident in their capacity to care for the spiritual and emotional lives of their membership and students.

I am taking a course right now at Ocean Seminary College taught by Katie and the book is our text. I am loving this course! The book is and will be a tremendous resource for pagan clergy and those aspiring to become pagan clergy. Ethics is a very difficult topic for pagans, as we have no theological ethics provided for us by the Divine. “An ye harm none” is all most of us get and that is a widely debated base for forming ethical values.

It is very important for us to have clear ethical values and to make sure that those we train bring them into their practice as well. This little book will give you things to think about and certainly help you clarify for yourself your own ethics and values and then, being more informed, help you in discussing them with your students.

Here is a list of the chapters in the book so that you can see the topics covered.

One - Defining Ethics- An Introduction

Two - Theological Ethics of Neopaganism Defined

Three - Character & Worldview of the Priest/ess

Four - The Professional Role

Five - The Pastoral Relationship

Six - Power & Confidentiality

Seven - Sex & Multiple Relationships

Eight - Ethical Issues & Money

Nine - Working with Children & Adolescents

Ten - When to Refer

Eleven - Resolving Ethical Dilemmas

Twelve - Establishing an Ethical Code

Ethics & Professional Practice for Neopagan Clergy

ISBN 978-0-557-09718

$16.95

   Available at amazon.com

  

  

Found Goddesses Maiden Goddesses - Part 6 by Barbara Ardinger, Ph.D.

Miss Piggy [1]

          The Goddess Of Everything hurled herself into the world in the first episode of The Muppet Show, September 27, 1976. She had a supporting role at first, as an astronaut (porkonaut?) in “Pigs in Space,” but then … well … she and Kermit fell in love. She demanded more lines, bullied the guest stars. Soon we witnessed a satined, sequined theophany. Excuse me. Theaphany. Starring in five seasons of The Muppet Show and five Muppet movies, she ascended in purple-gloved glory to the heavens of the Muppet pantheon. Who can forget the Busby Berkleyesque underwater ballet sequence in The Great Muppet Caper where The Pig rises in perfect balance atop the fountain of life? It’s a porcine apotheosis.

And then she ventured into epigraphy: she wrote a book. We pray to our goddesses to help us live our lives more happily. Like the oracles and sibyls of old, The Pig pronounces words of wisdom. Her Guide to Life tells us everything we will ever need to know about beauty, fashion, finance, manners, romance, success, and other vital topics. Do we think we’re ugly? “Not everyone can be a superstar,” Miss Piggy says, “but anyone can be a semistar, a starette, or a teensyweensystar.”

          Our goddesses attend to our emotional needs. Henson knows, life in the 21^st century is not easy. “Misery loves timpani,” The Pig writes:

If your depression is particularly acute, you may be able to deglumify things a bit with some upbeat music. But if you like classical music—as moi does—do be careful: even the most sprightly, toe-tapping symphonies have at least one grouchy movement filled with oboes, doldrums, and bassinets.

          There’s no one like The Pig. Aggressive and winsome at the same time, she loves her Kermie. Maybe she’s the reason it’s not easy being green….

Barbara Ardinger, Ph.D. (www.barbaraardinger.com), is the author of Pagan Every Day: Finding the Extraordinary in Our Ordinary Lives (RedWheel/Weiser, 2006), a unique daybook of daily meditations, stories, and activities. Her earlier books are Finding New Goddesses, Quicksilver Moon, Goddess Meditations, and Practicing the Presence of the Goddess. Her day job is freelance editing for people who don't want to embarrass themselves in print. Barbara lives in southern California. To purchase a signed copy of Finding New Goddesses, just send Barbara an email at bawriting@earthlink.net.

Ghost Queen MarVeena Meek

The Ghost Queen MarVeena Meek from Dallas, TX

publishes her Ghost Queen E-zine twice a month

with hints and tips for Spiritual Awakening and Psychic Development.

Sign up for Free at her web site:

www.ghostqueen.com

Intentional Insights: Q&A From Within by S. Kelley Harrell

Observation is Action

Kelley, My husband has PTSD and major clinical depression. I've been married to him for 15 years. It takes a lot of my energy just to live with him. Living without him would be hard, too, especially financially. What do I do? L.

Thank you for your note, L. All signs point to observe. If he is not actively in therapy, it is appropriate for him to be. When I see his life force it is an enormous flame, which indicates to me that he is too active in his higher chakras (in his mind). He is in dire need of mental, emotional, and psychological soothing, and that is not something you can provide. You have tried, to the point of your own detriment. There is a myth in our culture that as life partners, we are and should be obligated to provide every ounce of support to our significant other. The reality is, that kind of fishbowl support burns out more relationships than it sustains. If that has been the case, it has to change. When a loved one is dealing with deep trauma, as he is, the insight and skill of a trained professional are required. No significant other can carry that load; no significant other should have to. For the balance to shift between you, both must see the value in finding an objective third person in whom he can confide, or you have to elect to make the changes in your life that you need for yourself. Sure, in relationships we weather the worst of each other. But we must also relish the best of each other, and that has not sustained your joining for some time. You cannot control him or direct him in self care. All you can do is make the suggestions.

If he is already in therapy and not making progress, perhaps it's time for a switch, or for you to start making plans independently of him.

There are many styles of therapy, many approaches.  It is time for him to do something, or to do something different; again, forcing him will do no good.

It's also imperative for you to decide your reasons for staying in this relationship. If compassionate coexistence can no longer be honored by you, you are doing neither of you favors by staying together. If you are genuinely vested in staying, changes will be required on your part, as well. While his conditions have created friction in the relationship, the dynamic that has developed has been a joint endeavor. Be very honest with yourself about what you want from this relationship, and clearly discern if you are already finished. Sometimes it's amazing what progress can be made from merely gathering more info.

Be well, L!

~*~*~*~

Saturn Loves Libra Loves Shadow

I read your story on what Saturn gave you.  It really touched me. I am a September Libra, and as you know, I now have Saturn in Libra. Any Insights? Linda

Thanks for writing, Linda. Your concern is duly noted. I have a Libra moon, which is curiously productive and stabilizing, and is now insisting that I value and be authentic in relationships. I never thought I'd turn to the Sun for shade. Along that line, in Libra, Saturn's focus is relationships and how they are an extension of ourselves. The usual indecisiveness attributed to Libras is more balanced and manageable. In Libra, what weights the other end of the scale is our 'shadow' self, our Other we rarely if ever talk about.

It is this facet of self that has the most emphasis for you during this Saturn-Libra dance.

To do this reading I call in your guides, who show me a triangulated dynamic that is the focus of the next three years. What I see is your earthly consciousness, another woman, and a man. The other woman in the dynamic is furious at the man, who doesn't feel like he is completely in the formed world. If he isn't, he is an attachment dominating your energy and you should seek depossession help. If he is in the formed world, he is not physically present or active in your life, as his essence is barely rooted here. He feels to be a man who hurt you badly, if not one that has already died. At any rate, this other woman is your shadow.

To get specific insight into this dynamic, I call in the big gun, himself, the spirit of Saturn. His presence is leaden, but not in a heavy, cumbersome way. Rather, he is solid, reliable, dependable. I ask him what the primary focus is for you during this time, and he emphasizes shadow work. I ask him how shadow is represented in this triad. He says, "The shadow is light." Lovely metaphor, but he literally means that in this era of Saturn, it is appropriate for your more controlled, subdued conscious approach to life to take a backseat to your real, primal truth, which is screaming, "Run for the hills!" where the connection with this man is concerned. This man feels like a slow bleed, perhaps so slowly that you're not aware just how toxic his energy is in your life. On a conscious level you have tolerated his mild annoyance, maybe even enabled him to some degree. What I see is that on a conscious level, you have achieved intellectual peace with his misdeeds, but at an unconscious level visceral parts of yourself are still hurting, raw, and very angry. That kind of split is common in wound dynamics. We do what we have to do to find peace day-to-day. Saturn is holding your hand in an effort to help you find a deeper peace, for all time. Shedding this relationship is the primary focus of the next few years. I feel that the real challenge for you isn't in letting the man go, but in healing the parts of you he's affected, and letting go of habits, crutches you've created to sustain living with the energy drain that he has been.

You are up to the task. In doing this reading I drew a card from The Wise Woman's Tarot. The card is the Seven of Wands, represented in this mythos by the female warrior Scathach, the Scottish "Shadowy One." Her message is that yes, you are under attack, and you are up to the task of victory.

~*~*~*~

Love and Light, Bless Your Heart

"Be Impeccable With Your Word." Don Miguel Ruiz, The Four Agreements

"Bless whatever you can with eyes and hands and tongue. If you can't bless it, get ready to make it new." Marge Piercy, What are Big Girls Made of?

Bless your heart. It's a Southern staple, old and rife with colorful implications. Although commonly heard, it's an expression that I never found authenticity in; thus, I forewent using. Several years ago I had an experience that solidified my thoughts of it, and of the necessity of differentiating between judging people and their behaviour, and honoring shadow truth. With thoughts of word choice and how we use them at the fore, this feature isn't intended for young readers

I never liked the expression. It was too Southern, too religious, too... pitifully cloying, disempowering. In reality, I've rarely heard it used with sincerity. Most often it's insinuated into an off-color remark, such as, "She shouldn't be wearing those pants, bless her heart," or "Bless his heart, I can't believe he spent money on that." An expression of righteous indignation, the judgemental piety somehow transmutes the fact that its heart is an insult. Ever the wordsmith, that twisted intent never set well with me.

As I began my own lessons in speaking and discerning truth, and learning not to judge, I re-examined the phrase. While not necessarily religious, it should be uplifting. It should be kind and inspiring. It should be a reminder that 'they' are no different from 'us,' such that the speaker and recipient walk away from the exchange better than they entered. As it stood, the expression was a dead metaphor; no one seemed to remember its original reverence.

My cause to avenge clearly laid out, I began voicing the affirmation. I specifically used it in situations that challenged my truth, such that I genuinely intended a wish of Universal improvement to the situation, the person, the ailment.  Then I made a disturbing observation. Whenever I said, "Bless his heart," the response of those around me was to snipe about the person/situation, or to chastise me for speaking ill. I discovered that the phrase was so badly misused and misunderstood, that even when used with high intent it was poorly perceived. Because the words had long been so carelessly bandied about, no one recognized my heart-centered use.  It was perceived as just more glib gab. The reaction of my "community" left me wondering if I perhaps I didn't understand that the phrase was meant to be double entendre, and that any commentary on ill-behaviour or situation is judgmental regardless of honorable intent. I thought my cause was lost.

A year ago I was working with a long-term client, a gifted Reiki Master who has observably immense compassion. We were engaged in a fairly deep conversation on his experience of recently being hurt by someone.  His perspective toward the offending person was intensely stirring and radically calm, which is in keeping with his overall passionate but gentle disposition. In his closing assessment of the altercation, he held up his hand in the Reiki beaming position and said, "I just said, 'Love and light, motherfucker. Love and Light.'"

My initial reaction was muted laughter. After working together for years, we'd spoken candidly, comfortably. Despite that, his northern need to romanticize my southern gentility most often pre-empted colorful interaction; read, he was more embarrassed than I was. Yet, when he said those words, I understood that was his "bless his heart." My quest on speaking with intent clarified.

I realized that there is implied assessment in honoring someone after reproach, not for no reason. We must be able to distinguish behaviours that support our truth and those that do not. That distinction can be made without judgment. There is a huge difference between saying, "You hurt me and that was unacceptable," and saying, "You hurt me and you're a bad person." Likewise, we must be able to express anger when our truth is not honored. For most of us that expression comes in the form of potent speech. However expression is manifest, remember that it's needed. What is stuck creates imbalance inside and outside. Recall as well, that once voiced, words can't be taken back. Speak truth.

We must be able to bless, without damning, what we don't like. On some level we are all acting in our best capacity. That recognition doesn't mean have no boundaries. It doesn't mean be a doormat, and does not offer license to be mean to someone who has offended. It means cultivate the ability to send love and light to what angers or hurts us most. Don't overlook its true nature, which may have no one's best interest in mind at all. Be aware of it, step away from it, bless it, and don't become it. The challenge is to find the means of interacting with shadow dynamics without falling prey to our own. This isn't news. "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you." "An it harm none, do what ye will."

In the end it isn't about judging the behaviour of others, but what we can honor within our own actions when we've been offended. It's about our intentions, regardless of the words coming out of our mouths. I use the phrase copiously now, as a self-check when I'm really annoyed about something, with the hope that my intentions for "blessing" someone might help them in some way, and with the hope that I may be a trendsetter, yet.

Indeed, love and light. Bless your heart.

~*~*~*~

Intentional Insights is a Q&A column inviting you to look inside yourself. If you have a question that you would like for me to address in my column regarding a brief Soul Reading or questions about spiritual healing and shamanism, please send them to me at Kelley at soulintentarts dot com, or contact me to schedule a full-length Soul Reading. Intentional Insights is a production of Soul Intent Arts. Follow me on Facebook and Twitter!

Let's Clarify by Bendis

Let’s Clarify Some Things…

I would like to talk about two things.  The first is the term Dianic and the second, the validity of ordinations.  I feel compelled to do this because lately I have been seeing women claim their Dianic Path to be the only valid one and/or their ordinations to be the only ones that are legal.  I frankly, do not understand the whys of any of it unless possibly, it is done for self-promotion.

You will see several definitions of Dianic out there – it all depends on who is speaking!  One will say Dianic means women only religion.  Another will say that it is because we worship Diana.  Others will say that the term means that the path honors the Goddess as whole and complete and that she is Mother of all.

It is true that many Dianics practice in women only space.  It is true that worship is focused solely on the Goddess and all Her many names.  Women who practice in this way find that by working in women only groups they are able to know themselves better and come into their own power in deeper ways.  For these women, in its essence Dianic tradition is a Woman's Mysteries tradition, linked to such traditions across time and across cultures. They are a celebration of woman's bodies, woman's experiences, the Divine Feminine, and the biology and culture of womanhood, rather than a rejection or dismissal of men and masculinity.

Dianics recognize that the God is a variation of the Goddess, sourced from and contained within Her, just as both males and females are created, contained within, and birthed from the wombs of women. Therefore, the God is included as one of Her sacred creations, but He is not invoked in Dianic ritual. For women, it feels more appropriate for the Goddess and Her symbols to be present.

However, for some, being Dianic includes the idea that both men and women may come together to learn and grow in Her love.  We do not have a standard definition.  The only thing that is a constant is that Dianic is not typically a dualistic path.  There is not a shared role between God and Goddess as in other Wiccan paths.  Gods may be acknowledged but they are done so as Her sons and Her role as Creatrix is not shared with him.  Typically, if a god is brought into a Dianic ritual it is to demonstrate the sacrifice.  He dies.  He is mortal and She gives him back his life.  And this is from a mixed-gender Dianic point of view.

What needs to happen is that all of us who identify as Dianic use terms appropriate to our path or explain ourselves a little bit better.

Z Budapest calls her tradition Dianic Wicca.  She also sometimes says Feminist Dianic Wicca. Most of the time she just uses the term Dianic but when she does, she means women only.

I identify what I do as Feminist Dianic Witchcraft.  I do not think the term Wicca is appropriate for what we do in the Apple Branch, even though I am an ordained high priestess in Z’s lineage.  I also carry lineage from traditions that include men.  In actuality, the Apple Branch is inclusive of men.  I personally work in women only Circles because I have taken a vow with that intent.  Frankly, men can love the Goddess and can be feminists. I wish more did!   It is my hope that their numbers are growing, for feminism really means being against oppression of any kind!  With that in mind, I do work with men on an individual basis and would even facilitate a study group for them if they sought it.

The McFarland Dianics identify as Dianic and include men according to the desires of the high priestess of each Circle. Theirs is not the only tradition that includes and identifies as Dianic.  I know of the Dianic Nemorensis Tradition and have heard there are several others.

Then there is RCG-I, which to the best of my knowledge includes Dianic but members do not need to identfy as Dianic.  It is a women’s church, leaving personal practice to just that, personal.  People often refer to RCG-I as Dianic because it is woman only.

There is, unfortunately, so much bad information out there on the Internet.  I did a search recently looking for web sites describing Dianic or the Dianic Tradition.  I could not believe the amount of bad information.  Some of it was as if pulled out of thin air and had no basis in fact.  One site I found called the McFarland Tradition a Danaanic branch.  Where in the world did that come from?

What is also upsetting to me is the need for some people to create stories in order to authenticate themselves.  Do they think that we cannot create something beautiful and perfectly suited to our needs right now?  Why must we invent a history that never existed?

Everyone who claims to be Dianic does so based on what being Dianic means to them.  When someone says I am Dianic or if they refer to someone who is, it might be a good idea to ask for clarification!  And if you tell people you are Dianic, you might add a little more to your label for that clarification.

On to the subject of ordaining clergy…

 We are privileged to live in a country that holds separation of church and state as a holy law!  Any group is entitled to call itself a church and those they ordain are legally recognized as such.  It really is so simple!  Many of you might think that there must be a non-profit religious organization doing the ordaining but that is not so.  The only reason any organization takes on non-profit status or calls itself a church with the IRS is so that they can accept donations that are tax-free and that it will be a tax write off for the donor.  It has nothing to do with anything else, certainly not about their right to be a church or a religious organization.

 In the past few years I have seen Dianic groups claim that ordination through them is the only true Dianic ordination.  In those cases, I read it and shook my head, and read it again and I thought what?  Are they saying that all ordination of the many high priestesses out in the world that identify as Dianic are not real?  That they are not valid?  What is this about?

I hope that once you understand that any group can become a church and any church can ordain its clergy, you will see that any claims as to one or the other being legal or not legal or Dianic or not Dianic is clearly conflicted and not to be taken seriously by anyone.

Here at Global Goddess, we used to perform ordinations for women who were in service in their communities.  All it took were two letters from people they served telling us what they did and vouching for them.  That plus a commitment to give of their time and effort to Global Goddess for a period of one year.  For the most part, the ordinations were claimed and we never saw any assistance from those who were ordained.  There were a couple of exceptions.  However, we discontinued doing ordinations because frankly, it was a lot of work with very little benefit to Global Goddess.  How can you be an ordained priestess of a religious organization and not serve it?

Here in the state of Texas, you are considered clergy by the state if the people you serve consider you their clergy.  How simple!

And finally, when it is all said and done, a title is a title, is a title and as such means absolutely nothing until it is backed up in service and dedication  By our actions and by our deeds and by the value of our gifts to others, these are the marks of a priestess or priest.  She may have come up on her own, learned in the doing, without benefit of someone who came before bestowing a title upon her.  If she is in service to the Goddess and her community, is she not a priestess? 

The proof is in the pudding …

In honor and respect for the freedom of religion,

Bendis

Priestess of the Goddess

Modraniht by Barbara Ardinger, Ph.D.

December 24

Modraniht

            If we have Mother’s Day in the springtime, it seems only fair that we should celebrate Mother’s Night in the winter.

            We get the term Mothers’ Night from the English monk, Bede, who said that the Angles began their year on the night of December 24–25. We don’t know if he was reporting on a custom that honored three goddesses called the Mothers or referring to Christmas, newly arrived in Germanic lands. In 706, the Church forbade believers to follow the old Roman ceremonies honoring the confinement of the Mother of God, which included the distribution of cakes called placentae (the Divine Mother’s afterbirth). Christmas Eve became the night of the Virgin Mother.

            Tonight is probably the night we go home to our own mothers. (If I were cynical, I’d add, “… at least if we want our Christmas presents.) Reader, I’m guessing that your birth family is not pagan. I’m guessing they don’t understand what you’re up to with your talk of solar gods and solstices. I’m further guessing that Mom and Dad still invite you to go to the midnight service with them.

            Go to church with them. Your mother has cooked for you. She’s shopped for you. We pagans are pantheists and panentheists. We see deity everywhere. Why not in a Christian church on the night their god was born? Go to church and enjoy the ritual and the singing. Don’t argue theology. Don’t announce that Jesus may be mythological and if he was a real person, he was probably born in the spring or in the fall between 7 and 4 B.C.E. If we can agree that other pagans can celebrate their gods in their ways, why can’t we extend that privilege to Mom and Dad? Keep peace in the family. Go to church with them.

Barbara Ardinger, Ph.D. (www.barbaraardinger.com), is the author of Pagan Every Day: Finding the Extraordinary in Our Ordinary Lives (RedWheel/Weiser, 2006), a unique daybook of daily meditations, stories, and activities. Her earlier books are Finding New Goddesses, Quicksilver Moon, Goddess Meditations, and Practicing the Presence of the Goddess. Her day job is freelance editing for people who don't want to embarrass themselves in print. Barbara lives in southern California. To purchase a signed copy of Finding New Goddesses, just send Barbara an email at bawriting@earthlink.net.

Moon Schedule from Winter Solstice to Imbolc by Dawn "Belladonna" Thomas

Moon Schedule from Winter Solstice to Imbolc

By Dawn “Belladonna” Thomas

(Times are Eastern Time)

1^st Quarter – December 24^th 12:36 p.m.

Full “Blue” Moon – December 31^st 2:14 p.m.

4^th Quarter – January 7^th 5:41 a.m.

New Moon – January 15^th 2:13 a.m.

1^st Quarter – January 23^rd 5:54 a.m.

Full “Wolf” Moon – January 30^th 1:18 a.m.

Moon Void of Course Schedule

Date                                   Starts                                  Ends

Psychic Shield by Caitlin Matthews - A Book Review by Bendis

Psychic Shield
By Caitlin Matthews
Published in 2006 by Ulysses Press, Berkeley, California



This is the finest book I have ever read on the topic of psychic self-defense.  One of the reasons I like it so much is that the author includes the process of self-analysis as to cause and effect.  In other words, she includes self-responsibility in the process.

I offer here an excerpt demonstrating this.

Maintaining Your Sanity

Remember that while you are undergoing the trials. Anxieties and confusions associated with psychic disruption, you are still yourself – a human being in a state of transition and development.

When you are blown off course, you need to get a fix on where you are and ride out the storm as best you can. Psychic disturbance may give you an opportunity for becoming more consciously focused in your life, helping you to live with greater depth and connection. It can call forth an underdeveloped soul into greater maturity and discernment.

To keep a sense of your true self while you are being blitzed by conflicting factors, you need a strong support network of both physical friends and family, as well of spiritual allies and advocates. These are part of your frontline defense. Also:
 
•   Simplify your affairs.
•   Downsize your workload.
•   Avoid large gatherings of people.
•   Avoid over-stimulating events.
•   Create a sanctuary of peace for yourself.
•   Clarify yourself and your situation in silence.
•   Keep close to supportive friends.
•   Avoid the company of influences and people that escalate psychic disturbance.

How We Cause Psychic Disruption

Psychic disruption is not just something we experience; it is also something we cause. We don't have to be malign in intent for this to happen. Unless we can see how we stand in the chain of cause and effect, we cannot truly call ourselves psychically-responsible or spiritually-aware people. We all like to be seen in a good light and will endlessly manipulate the evidence and appearances to produce this result, but the truth is that we all have self-serving intentions. The following actions and attitudes can precipitate psychic disruption:
 
•   Stepping over boundaries without invitation.
•   Neglecting psychic hygiene (see Chapter 6).
•   Refusing to change.
•   Holding on to the power and soul of others (see Chapters 4 and 5).
•   Being careless of our words, deeds and intentions.
•   Having our own way no matter what.
•   Being convinced of the rightness/justice of our cause.
•   Being a do-gooder with meddling intentions that fracture boundaries.
•   Being inactive or passive when we should be active.
•   Letting things slide.
 
If you are currently suffering psychic disruption, you might want - ask yourself, "What is my responsibility in causing this?" not to evoke guilty feelings, but in order to examine the chain of events leading to this problem so that you can gain clarity and avoid it happening again.

Blueprints for Psychic Protection

•   Call upon Advocates and the Source of Life for immediate aid.
•   Pay attention to your breath.
•   Keep a sense of proportion.
•   Retain a sense of humor.
•   Check what's really going on around you by questioning and paying attention.
•   Be aware that conditions change and so must your defense strategies.
•   Use your intelligence and discernment.
•   Ground and center yourself rather than following the confusion.
•   Validate your lifesaving instincts by acting upon them.
•   Be attentive to the present moment rather than the past and future.

So many books or articles on this topic get pretty deep into esoteric matters in the world of the seen and the unseen. Matthews stays in this realm and her book is full of practical applications in maintaining ourselves in times of stress and anxiety.

Deanne Quarrie, December 2009

The Girdle of Ishtar: Astrology for Everywoman by Jessica North-O'Connell

The Girdle of Ishtar: Astrology for Everywoman

Ah, the Dark of the year, when the Light withdraws; daylight arrives late and vanishes early, and the dark is deep. When the night-time skies are clear, we are left with the pin-prick light of distance stars, and the light of the moon, whose three-day absence at her new phase is even more keenly felt. Some of us fall victim to SADness.  We use light-treatment lamps to make ourselves feel better.

Yet it is at this very time that women can shine, shine, shine. Whether we shine our light outwards in seasonal hospitality, goodwill and charity, or inwards, “lighting our way in the dark,” while seeking Self-knowledge and understanding, the dead of winter offers us the opportunity to explore our own unique aspects of the Divine Self.

Despite our culture's belief tendencies to the contrary, there is a long-standing, worldwide tradition of the Solar Feminine. One such tradition is that of the Shinto of Japan, whose premier Goddess, Amaterasu-ō-mi-kami ("Great Goddess Who Shines in the Heavens")[1] was said to withdraw her light from the skies after being gravely insulted by her brother, thus bringing to humankind the first winter. It was through the guile and cunning of the shaman Uzume, the Sky Frightener, using bawdy humor and the first mirror (a symbol of the Solar Feminine around the world), that Amaterasu was inspired to venture forth from her Sky-Rock Cave once again, thus restoring her glorious light to Earth and the heavens.[2] Sometimes all we need is a little coaxing.

Though it has become fashionable to decry the excesses of the season, the tradition of excess at Winter Solstice has a long, long history throughout the northern hemisphere, and reflects our faith that the Sun's generous light will return, and that the Earth will yield her bounty to us once again.  As we reach deep into our resources - be they financial, foods, goods, or less tangible inner qualities - to gift those around us, we “step up” to the experience of exhibiting our own Solar traits, thus emulating our celestial benefactress. We bring our “light” to those whom we love and cherish. The Sun never considers whether or not giving light is excessive; she just shines on us all!

In the beginning, woman really was the sun.

...We, the completely hidden sun,

Must now restore ourselves.

We must reveal the hidden sun -

our concealed genius.

Excerpted from “The Hidden Sun”

by Hiratsuka Raicho[3]

Seasonal Outlook

This year's Winter Solstice occurs on Monday, December 21, 9:47 a.m. PST. You can adjust the time according to your own time zone (e.g., New Yorkers will celebrate the Solstice at 6:47 a.m., being three hours ahead of the West Coast).  The Sun is in Earthy Capricorn and the Moon is increasing in progressive, independent Aquarius. The rising sign spans Sagittarius/Capricorn across the North American continent, with visionary Sagittarius in the east and pragmatic Capricorn in the west.

Constellations visible in the December night sky include Aries, Cetus, Eridanus, Fornax, Horologium, Hydrus and Perseus. On a clear night, (and away from artificial lights), venture outside and take a look.[4]

This is a time for us to consider our own personae; what we think we're projecting or expressing about ourselves may not be what others perceive. Ask those you trust for feedback if you think you may be off-track. Some of us may also be considering re-defining our personal styles right now, especially Earth (Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn) and Fire (Aries, Leo, Sagittarius) signs. There's nothing quite like breaking free of a groove, and what better time to shine?

Scorpio and Sagittarius, take time this season to look at situations from others' perspectives. Practicing compassion benefits not just others, but yourself as well.

Libra and Scorpio, many of you may find yourselves busy striving toward ideals. Bear in mind that excellence isn't the same as perfection; given all the factors, choices, decisions and what have you, each moment is perfect in its own right. Delivering excellence, on the other hand, is always something we can work towards, as it invites us to challenge ourselves. Give credit where it is due; everyone needs to feel recognized and appreciated.

Leo, you  may find that this is a time of doing for yourself, rather than waiting for someone else to do things for you. Some of you really want to take the lead right now, and independence can be a really good thing. Remember the story of the Little Red Hen - cluck, cluck!

Aries, Cancer, Libra and Capricorn, this is a great time to start things, as there is abundant energy to not only begin, but also to see things through (with a little help from your Taurus, Leo, Scorpio and Aquarius friends). Just remember that life seldom proceeds “according to plan” and we need to keep a certain amount of flexibility in order to achieve our goals. Take some time to make plans before plunging ahead (this can be a challenge!). Things aren't really “life or death” right now – they just seem that way. There's no reason not to take the middle road, and leave a few options open.

Financially, money may come in unexpectedly, but could flow out just as quickly. Aquarius and Pisces, guard against gullibility, and check things out before committing financially. Rash expenditures may leave you wanting in the long run. Also, some of us may experience the urge to “clean house.”  Watch hasty decisions,  as you may later regret giving items away too quickly. Revisit your urge again at Imbolg, a most appropriate time to pass along those treasures!

Don't forget to play, Gemini, as we all know about “all work and no play” making us dull. Luxuriate a bit; this is an Earthy season.  Along with the tendency to overwork is the tendency to neglect our personal health. This may be the perfect  time to “be your own Mom,” Cancer, and practice your culinary flair by making nutritious home-cooked meals, from baked beans and slow-simmered soups (that's what your crockpot is for!) to gourmet haute cuisine. Gemini, check out  Alice Waters, Charlie Trotter and Julia Child  for inspiration. Food doesn't have to be complicated to be delicious.

Intimate relationships may take on a nurturing or playful tone – either way, we can all benefit by paying more attention to our “significant others.”  Cancer and Virgo, partners may turn to you (or you to them) for help with details and “putting things in order.” Keep things light-hearted, but do a good job. It will pay off later.

Capricorn, Virgo and Gemini, this can be the perfect time listen to your dreams, as practical insights or solutions to situations you've been grappling with are likely to reveal themselves now.

Enjoy the returning light, both the Sun's and your own! See you at Imbolg.

Jessica North-O'Connell is a founding Priestess of Thirteenth House Mystery School, Victoria, B.C., and Faerie Mound Covenstead, Lake Cowichan, B.C. on beautiful Vancouver Island. She has been a practitioner of astrology since 1978 and currently teaches a course for beginners called The Girdle of Ishtar. Online classes will begin at Rowan Tree School in January, 2010.

The Healing Tree: A women’s Column Rooted in the Wheel of the Year by Vanessa Timmons

From Light to Darkness to Light Again: The Journey of Amaterasu

I love Amaterasu, she is one of my guardians. I believe she is the guardian of all of us on the healing journey. Her story goes that she was born a powerful goddess whose great beauty was responsible for lighting the world. One day she suffered a great loss at the hands of those she loved and trusted most. This was a deep and brutal betrayal.

Amaterasu retreated to a cave plunging herself and the world into darkness. In order to coax her from her cave, the people of her village held a mirror at the cave door, they sang and danced and filled the world with laughter and joy. Amaterasu, curious at this ruckus peaked out and caught a glimpse of herself in the mirror. Upon seeing her own beauty and goodness her grief dissipated. Amaterasu, believing that good had returned to the world, returned also.

This is common of our healing journey. We are born strong and able. But the circumstances of life take their toil. Pain, loss, grief, abuse, can take us to dark places. We can lose our way. Yet is our own light that leads us once again to our strong and able center.

Use these journal writing prompts to take your own journey of Amaterasu;

What grief am I ready to release?

What does my cave look like?

What is my inner strength?

What joy must I return too?

How can I express my passion and joy?

What beauty within has gone unnoticed until now?

May your light shine brilliantly!

Goddess bless,

Vanessa

Vanessa Timmons

vtimmons2@yahoo.com

www.thewayoftheheroine.com

The Solstice of the Great Bear by Byron Ballard