Your New Years Tarot Reading is ready to view! Open your heart to healing!

The Healing Star of Aquarius

New Year Tarot Spread

2013-2014

 

Every year I give myself a personal tarot reading, to have better insight into my year ahead. This year I have decided to do one for you all. Some of you I know personally, some I have never met. However, after doing this Universal reading, I feel so connected with each and every one of you. You see, we are all in need of some type of healing as we go into the New Year. I hope this reading inspires you all, to live to the fullest of your potential. To find those hidden talents that are lying dormant within the deepest depths of your soul, waiting to shine through for others to see. And to love one another with all your heart. We are all connected, and this is already proving to be a powerful year ahead, allowing us to open our minds to great possibilities. Namaste my friends, and enjoy!

 

1.( center card) Focus- Ask yourself, what causes you the most pain? What is your priority in healing? Where do you begin?

            Card: Nine of Staves- Protected by a wall of staves, the woman rests for the moment to regroup her thoughts. There is still much to do before success is secured.

            Meaning: A pause in work to reconsider plans. Completion is so close, yet so far away! You are stressing too much on the work that is yet to be completed, instead of pausing to look at it from a new prospective. Don’t give up, simply rest and regroup. The answer will be right in front of you as soon as you slow down long enough to see it.

 

2. ( right card)  Strengths-  Ask yourself, What are your strengths? What are your resources, gifts, talents? What do you need to nurture?

            Card: Five of Swords, Reversed- Two swords are laid down in truce. However, the woman still grasps three others, showing that the fight isn’t over just yet.

            Meaning-Defeat because of indecisiveness. Lack of trust. Learn to trust your instincts. Trust in yourself that making a solid decision with any matter will be the right choice. Learn to listen to that inner voice that speaks to you, and train your eyes to see the signs in nature all around you. Take time to nurture your mind, body and spirit.

 

3. (Bottom right card) Self-understanding- Ask yourself, how can your current insights start the healing process?

            Card: Six of Pentacles- The richly dressed woman decides to help the two beggars. She is so wealthy that giving only adds to her prosperity.

            Meaning: Philanthropy and generosity. Sharing talents with the world. Helping others. Generosity.  Money will never be able to buy happiness, and the most wealthy person in the world may not have a single penny. Give and share freely with compassion in your heart. That is true wealth. Understand your full potential, so that you can shine your light into the world! You may just change a persons’ life by one simple act of kindness.  

 

4. (Bottom left card) Obstacles- Ask yourself, what obstacles to healing do I face? What situations in my past block my growth?

            Card: Princess of Cups- The princess of cups, an adolescent girl as beautiful as Venus, is crowned with a waxing moon. Anticipating love, pleasure, and the ripeness of womanhood. She drinks fully.

            Meaning: Artistic inspiration and receptivity. A young woman who symbolizes the gifts of Venus- love, beauty and emotional richness. Movement in these areas of life. Grace. Keep yourself open to receive the gifts that the Universe has to give you. Find love in yourself and beauty in all things before you seek it in others. Allow yourself to find emotional stability and release the negative energy blocking your true self. Only then will you be able to grow into the Light Being you are destined to become!

 

5. (Upper left card) Advice- Ask yourself, what concrete creative action can I take to support my healing?

            Card: Two of Pentacles- The woman juggles two pentacles. Completely focused upon her act, she does not drop the pentacles.

            Meaning: The ability to juggle several situations at once. Job opportunities. Grace and bounty. Commerce and expansion. Stay positive and focused that you are on the right track, and don’t lose faith in yourself. Success is right around the corner, even if you can’t see your own progress.

 

6. (Top center card) Overview- Ask yourself, How does my healing relate to a larger picture? What does my pain tell me about the story of my life? What will I gain as a result of my healing?

            Card: Princess of Staves- The princess of Staves, a fiery-haired young woman, is as stalwart as the rocks surrounding her. She is an inspiration to others to live passionately without compromise.

            Meaning:  The ability to create beauty that is useful, like the Goddess Freyja. Energy, integrity, creativity. Initiative. New ideas or ventures to be acted upon immediately. A young woman who inspires others to live this mission. We all have a greater purpose to help others, and in doing so will give us peace and pleasure within ourselves. We all have a story to tell, so sit everyone down around the fire and tell it!  Set your own worth, and never let others take that away from you. Bring your amazing creative ideas into fruition. Trust in yourself that you are a born leader, and you will always succeed in all you do.

Breathe in this amazing upcoming year and release and let go of the things holding you back. Meditate to the rhythm of your own heartbeat, and allow it to pulse outward, for the whole world to hear. You ARE a born leader, so step up and accept your new role. WE are the blessed light workers that the winds of change have spoken of! Make this year your own!!

Namaste, and blessings to you all!

 

A little about this deck:

The Goddess Tarot, created by Kris Waldherr

This is my one and only deck, I have had it for over a decade. The artwork is skillfully done, and its representations are beautifully written, and always accurate. The Goddess speaks to me, on a personal level throughout this deck, and I hope some inspiration has touched you as well!

Thank you, Melissa W.  

I have a very important message for you, please take a moment to see your tarot spread! We are all in need of healing, but perhaps you haven't quite known where to start. This spread spoke to me on levels I cannot even begin to explain, and I hope it speaks to you as well. You are looking for answers as you go into the upcoming year, and this is the place to start. We are all connected my friends, and I can feel the pain and hurt you have lived with for so long. It is time for Universal healing, and it starts with you!

 

Learning to Let Go; A Personal Journey of Friendship and Loss

As winter quickly approaches, I am left with the stain of Summer left on my mind. I am already longing for summer nights again and fresh fruit from the Farmer's Market. Unfortunately, our days have become shorter, our nights colder, and there has already been slick ice and bitterly cold air to stop me dead in my tracks.



The warmth of summer is frozen under sheets of ice. Bare trees stand naked and vulnerable, the Dark half of the year is upon us, and the annual death and rebirth cycle has been completed. And even though this past year has been very good to me, and my family, I cannot shake the loss that I endured recently. A life-long friend of mine for 25 years, betrayed my trust and my friendship, forcing me to sever all ties to her and her children. I have never had to physically remove a person from my life like that, it was sudden, and completely uncalled for. However, it was the only way to let go and move on, from the chaos she had chosen to bring into my life.

But, I haven't been unable to move on. I haven't yet forgiven her, so that I can have peace. I still have anger and hurt towards her, and the things that she did, the selfish things, that she didn't even seem to care who she hurt. I know I shouldn't feel guilty for the actions of another person. But something inside me is keeping me from moving past this, It keeps telling me that it is unfinished. I want more than anything, to stand before her, shake her awake, and make her see what she has done. Make her feel what I feel. I know better though. I know she will never see my side. She will never hurt the way I am hurt. So I will probably never have a chance at releasing the energy I have, swirling around this sore, raw topic.

So what do I do with that energy?? How to I turn it into something positive and release it? I have done releasing spells, letting her go from my life, and wishing her only the best. but deep down I know it has only been on the surface. I haven't really  put my intent out into the universe 100%. I do sincerely wish her only the best though. I want more than anything for her to find happiness in her life, a life that she can feel alive in once again, after years of loneliness. But I also wish for her to find happiness in a life that she can be honest in. Honest to herself. I suppose though, that that makes me selfish to think that way. It's not about what I want for her. It's about what she wants for herself. It's about the actions and choices in her own life, that she will make and live with, to find her own personal happiness.   

One of the main foundations of Wicca, taken directly from the Wiccan Rede is, 'An it harm none, do what thou will'. I strive to follow this on a daily basis, constantly reminding myself to watch my actions, so that I do not harm another person, or animal, or spirit. I know there are times when morals and values stand in the way, and harming another person seems small compared to the larger picture. it is still, non-the-less, a constant in my life, and something I take very seriously. Which is why, I suppose, that I took my friend's actions so personal. She's not Wiccan, and has never really studied the path. She's never really taken the time to fully understand my views, or my faith. It hurts my feelings that she never cared to, and in the past she has even made remarks about it, in her mind to be funny, but in my mind I knew she was only speaking her truth about how she felt about a non-Christian way of life.

She will always, however, be my childhood best friend. I will always remember the good memories we made as children, the inside jokes that no one else understood, and probably never will. We were there for each other during a time of innocence and growth, when we needed each other the most, and I will never forget that. Life has a funny way of catching up with people. Our friends and family grow up, into their own ways of life. They move away and get married. Have children. And the old personalities, the old friends that you knew, get shed away, like snake skin. Leaving a fresh person standing before you that you don't even recognize. A person that is full of new ideas and perspectives.





 We must all walk along our own paths, and see things in our light. That is the way it is intended to be. That is how the cycle must go. Always and for eternity. There is no stopping it, or slowing it down, or even reversing it. The cycle of death and rebirth will always be. Old relationships must die, before new ones can begin to grow and flourish. Accept that into your heart, and you will always be moving forward, as you are meant to. And never feel guilty for being yourself. No matter who may say harsh things, and false assumptions. NEVER feel guilty for being honest, because the people who truly love you, and understand you, would never want you to settle for second best. Namaste.   

Bunnies Warm the Heart

          

Finding Your Own Zen; Living as a Solitary Witch

 For a majority of Pagans and Wiccans, being a solitary practitioner is a way of life. Unlike Christianity, Wicca doesn’t usually fit into the ‘organized religion’ category. The main reason for this is because each and every one of us has a different set of beliefs. A different value system, which allows us to practice and worship in a way that works for us. Although there is a general guideline we follow as Pagans (and harm none, do what ye will, and the rule of 3 for example), the way we incorporate them into our lives may be very different than that of your fellow brothers and sisters. And it is for that main reason alone, that I love my faith, and honor all of the diversity that comes along with it. Although I am not Buddhist, I honor Buddha, and respect him, those who follow him, and the beautiful symbolism associated with this culture. Although I am not 100% Native American, I am drawn to the deities of several Native American tribes, and have often wondered if I lived among them during another life. ‘Wicca’ and ‘Pagan’ are very generalized terms, making your views and preferred deities for worship an endless sea of possibilities. You could be Heathen, or Alexandrian. Or perhaps you follow the Druids or Celtics. Or maybe you follow a more eclectic path like myself, and love to study many religions and cultures, taking with you the things you love from each one. There is no right or wrong way to pray, no wrong God or Goddess to pray to. That is the ultimate beauty of the Craft.    

 

I have been a HPS for several covens, and have always left for the same exact reason: We didn’t all worship the same. It’s not that it was a bad thing, and I never left my covens on bad terms, it’s just that because we all learn and grow in different ways, it has always been easier to fully give myself to the Goddess when I am alone. It just feels more comfortable to me. I have my rituals memorized and I know what my intentions are as I go into my personal circle. I am in a safe place to fully be me. There is no judgment, no right or wrong way.

There are, however, plenty of occasions when a group circle is needed in order to raise energy as a collective. I have definitely had many awesome and personal experiences while in circle with a group of people, large and small. One shared thought begins to form. Many steams of energy and light slowly begin to form into one intense linked stream of energy. It is truly magical when that happens, and not an experience I would trade for anything. When you do choose to work with a group though, make sure everyone’s intentions are true, and that these people are all people you can trust. The best social mixer for meeting fellow Wiccans in your town is to host a monthly Magic Coffee night at your local coffee shop. Get involved with any New Age store your town may have, or even a Non-denominational church in your area. You will be surprised how many of us are really out there ;)

When flying solo, you are your own teacher. Find the best authors and let them serve as your mentors. Find those top 3 ‘go to’ books and keep them readily at hand. Don’t learn 5 different ways to cast a circle, only to have to reference back to your book each time you are in the middle of performing a ritual. Find only one, the one that speaks most to you, and learn it. That way, over time, you will know it, and feel it. Then, you can change it, add or take away from it, to serve your needs. To make it yours. Don’t feel lost just because you don’t have anyone near you to share your rituals and spells with. Embrace that solitude, and grow from within. Only then, will you find others around you that share the same common interests as you.

 

Below I have shared my personal basic ritual outline. I use this any time I am casting a full circle, and calling the quarters. It is the same outline I have used for over 10 years, and has been changed many times to fit my needs. I have used it for Solitary rituals, Sabbat celebrations and more, and it has never failed me. Feel free to add it to your personal book of shadows and use at your own accord.  Blessings to you and yours!! Namaste!

Basic Ritual Outline

*Make sure you gather all your materials, and have your altar set up, prior to beginning. It is frowned upon to leave the circle once it has been cast! I usually set my altar up in the east, however I have also set it up in the North, depending on the need.

Sweep the perimeter of the circle clockwise 3 times while saying;

With besom of heather, all harm and evil must vanish and scatter

With besom of heather, only peaceful and good are invited to enter

(this can also be swapped out with a smudge stick and reciting  ‘smoke of sage’ if you don’t have a besom)

Anoint yourself

Placing a dab of essential oil on your fingertip, place it in the center of your forehead and say

May my mind be free and clear to do thy will

Next place it over your heart and say

May my heart be pure and free to do thy will

Finally over your stomach and say

May my body be of good health always, so mote it be!

Smudge yourself while saying

With smoke of sage I sweep the worldly woes from off my back

May I be blessed as I enter this carefree state

Return to your altar and raise your chalice filled with water. With the other hand over the top, say a small prayer to bless and purify the water. Return it to the table and put 3 pinches of sea salt into the water, stirring with your athame.

Going back to the perimeter of your circle, sprinkle your salt water around while walking 3 times and saying:

Water and salt where thou art cast

Let no evil presence last

Act in complete accordance with me

As I do will, so mote it be

Return your chalice back to your altar and take your Athame and return to the perimeter of your circle.

Cast your circle while saying

By the power of the witch’s staff is the magic circle made

A strong enclosure, a powerful room

Safe within the Goddess’s womb

A sacred place, a world apart

Where energies merge and magic starts

With Air and Fire this circle I tread

To know our will is magic tis said

With Water and earth this circle is complete

To dare and keep silent after we meet

Calling the quarters

East-

Guardians and keepers of the East

Element of Air

The breath of life

I ask you to be here this nite

As I perform a {Full Moon, Protection, etc.} Rite

I bid you hail and welcome!

South-

Guardians and keepers of the South

Element of Fire, energy and will

I ask you to be here this nite

As I perform a {___} Rite

I bid you hail and welcome!

West-

Guardians and keepers of the west

Element of water

Sustainer of life

I ask you to be here this nite

As I perform a {___} Rite

I bid you hail and welcome!

North

Guardians and keepers of the North

Element of Mother Earth

I ask you to be here this nite

As I perform a {___} Rite

I bid you hail and welcome!

Invocation of the God and Goddess

For all the Gods are one God

And all the Goddesses are one Goddess

But there is but one Initiator

And to each man his own truth, and the God within

And to each woman her own truth, and the Goddess within

**Any spell workings and meditations are done now**

Close the quarters, beginning in the North, and working backwards

Mighty ones of the North (west, south, east)

We thank you for your presence on this magical nite

As we performed a {___} rite

Stay if you will, leave if you must

We bid you hail and farewell!

Thank the gods and goddesses for attending your Rite

End by saying

The circle is open but unbroken

May the love of the God and Goddess be forever in my heart

Merry ye meet, and merry ye part

And merry ye meet again!!

 

 

Preparing For Change; The Autumn Equinox (Spell Included!)

Preparing for Change

The Autumn Equinox

 

 

As beings of this Earth, we are blessed with the cycles of Nature that come with it, and a responsibility to honor those cycles. We have our Moon, in all her beauty, shining her silver beams down upon us. And we have our Sun, warming the dirt below our feet with his golden rays. With Spring and Summer come light, rebirth and renewal, and as Fall and Winter approach, we are now fixing to enter the cycles of darkness, death and hibernation.  A change is already in the air. It is inevitable. And as the seasons prepare to change, so must we. By learning to see and accept these changes around us, it allows us to transition a little more smoothly. It gives us time to adjust our sails as we begin to enter the dark half of the year.

Of all the Sabbats and Equinox’s, I do believe that Autumn is a favorite among Pagan and Wiccan tradition. We have cooler evenings to spend outside with family and friends, circled around wood burning fires. Our “witchy” attire is pulled from the broom closet, and we are finally able to wear our favorite black skirt again (without looking downright creepy for wearing black!). Kitchen magic returns in full force, as we bake apple pies and stir cider in our cauldron.  And, even if unintentional, for a brief moment, no matter what your religion or beliefs, the meaning of the Autumn harvest, of family and communion, is honored by everyone, regardless of faith or income bracket.

Beginning to shift your own internal cycle now, will help ease you into the natural cycle of the seasons, and you will feel yourself 'going with the flow' so to speak, instead of waking up one frosty dark morning feeling disoriented and out of sorts. Just as you are watching the squirrels stock up on their winter foods, you should take note and do the same. Clean out your pantry of old, stale foods, and slowly begin to stock up on all those winter staples, like canned broth and soups. If you can your own foods, you are already stock piling those summer foods, but if you don’t, you can still find plenty to buy and store, making sure you always have a meal on hand for a cool November day. Rice, noodles, spices and canned foods are always good to have in stock, as well as all your freezer foods, like meats and frozen veggies.

I watch certain summer flowers die off in the garden, while others begin to take over and shine, and it reminds me to clear out the clutter in my home, physically and spiritually. Pick a cool sunny morning and open all the windows and doors, allowing that sweet aromatic breeze to flow through your space. Sweep every corner starting the furthest from your back door, and work your way through every room, sweeping the cobwebs and dust bunnies, until you reach the back door, sweeping it all out, releasing all the negativity with it. Now is also the perfect time of year, to pull out all your blankets and winter clothes, and get rid of what no serves you. Take inventory of the things you need, and start re-stocking now, before that first freeze hits and you are without a warm fuzzy coat! And while you’re at it, don’t forget to re-stock your magical tools too. Candles and herbs are must-haves, so burn off all those tiny candle pieces, and begin fresh for the Fall!

Fall gardening has already begun too. Garlic and leafy greens are always planted during this time of year, as well as bulbs. They need to go in the ground now, so they can lay dormant through winter, and will be ready to bloom next spring.  Mulch is also put down now, to protect your tender plants as much as possible. Those in pots need to be brought in if you can, so they can be safe throughout the cold season. Herbs can be planted now too, simply grab some tiny pots and get to planting, making sure to keep them in a sunny spot in your home until spring.

Though there is plenty to keep you busy this time of year, don’t forget to take time for yourself. As we enter the dark half of the year, it is a time for reflection. Take note and give thanks, for the things that were brought to you throughout the year. Set new goals for yourself, yet don’t forget to forgive yourself, for the things that may have fallen through this past year, or didn’t quite come to fruition as you had expected. This is a time for rest, so conserve your energy when needed, and know that a new year will bring fresh new ideas, and stamina.

To help with your transition, below is a candle prayer from my favorite author and book, By Candlelight, by Janina Renee.

 

 

For Candlelit Autumn Evenings

Light a candle of your choice, preferably one with your favorite autumn scent or color, 

then say aloud,

I set this candle

Against the lengthening darkness

Change is everywhere

And truly, all life is change

So may I honor the seasons of life

Let me savor the fleeting beauty,

And yet, let go

When time has come and gone

So may change bring new vitality

So may change bring added wisdom

So Mote it Be

 

 

 

Seeing Signs in Nature

They are everywhere. Signs. To help you along your path, to show you a glimmer of which way to go. They are a constant in my life, I am always spotting them, although not always listening to them, even when I should. Usually my signs come in the forms of birds, insects, or other animals, however they have come to me in a dream, or a song. The Blue Jay, has a very strong connection to my mother, who passed in 2009, and has planted its roots very near, to my home and my heart. Whenever I am in need of guidance, and sometimes even tough love, the blue jay never fails me with making its presence known. Now, that doesn't always mean that I will see it or even hear it. Sometimes It will come as a flash in my mind, or a ceramic figurine in the store. Or even just a small blue feather directly in my path as I am walking. It is these little subtle signs, that you have to really look out for. Your guardians are always around you, and the Universe is always watching you, doing what it can to help you, to reassure you about the world around you. Helping you along the path you are on, or warning you of obstacles ahead.



Associating birds with my loved ones that have passed has just always been in my life. I was 12 when my grandfather died. We were inseperable, he was a father to me throughout my entire childhood, and I was completely heartbroken when he died. On the way to the cemetery though, the most personal thing happened to me. A road runner crossed right in front of us, as we neared the cemetery gates. This is a very small cemetery, in the middle of sandy Texas cotton fields, in case you are needing a visual. I didn't think anything of it, other than the fact that we always ran into road runners when the two of us were together. Gathering around his plot, the services started. But I couldn't help but gazing off, through the headstones, not too far away, and there it was. The road runner. He stayed through all of the service, assuring me that he will always be there for me, no matter what. For several months after that, I would always see it, around my house, along the roads as we drove. Eventually it's presence became fewer and fewer, as I healed from his passing. Today, I only see him when he is really needed. When I am in need of being reminded of the powers that are at play around me.

I was 18 when my grandmother passed, and just truly coming into my way as a Pagan. She had been so very, very sick for many years, and it was extremely hard to see my sweet, gentle grandmother suffering. The day she left us, she had gone into the hospital. My parents had gone up there, but told me to stay home until they called for me. I sat at home, pacing the floor, waiting for a phone call I didn't want. After a few hours, I went outside in the shaded space of my backyard. I closed my eyes, and asked the Powers that Be to ease my grandmother's pain and suffering. To help her to cross over and find peace. All was quiet for a bit as I cried and prayed. Then, directly above me, I heard it. A woodpecker. I watched him so intently, he knew I was there, yet he wasn't afraid of me. It wasn't long after, my parents pulled up to tell me the news, but I already knew. The woodpecker had told me. And I felt at peace. I knew she had crossed over gently, and without pain.

I never know when a sign will come, or how it will show itself to me. But when I am in need, and can focus my mind on finding an answer, I am never failed by the Goddess, as long as I keep my heart and mind open to see what I am supposed to.

Our totem animals often reveal themselves too, on a very common basis. I have several, however my primary totem animal is the rabbit. A solid white rabbit visited me in my dreams for several nights in a row. I had quite a lot of hardships going on in my life during that time, but once I realized the rabbit was there to help me, I began to research him. Learn through him. Eventually my life began to run smooth again, and I can honestly say that I have the wisdom of the rabbit to thank.

The absolute best book I have found, on the topic of totem animals and learning to trust the signs in nature is:

Animal Speak, by Ted Andrews

 

 

 

Click this link, to purchase your own copy of Animal Speak!

 

Take time out of your day, every day, to listen to the rhythms of nature. Learn to speak to the Goddess on a very personal level, and in time, you will learn to see her responses. She is everywhere, listening to you, always.

Namaste

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Moon Child; Learning to Follow the Path of the Moon



Supermoon, June 2013

 



Our Moon. Wonderful and glorious. A sacred symbol of life, death, and rebirth, and associated with the Triple Goddess. Mysterious and perfect in all its beauty. Everything I do on a daily basis, is in tune with the Moon. With its waxing and waning, pushing and pulling, everything flows the way it is supposed to when you follow the course of the moon. From spellworkings, to childbirth, our Moon influences it all. Even our monthly cycles get into a pattern with the waxing or waning of the moon. That is why it is called a 'cycle', and is around 28 days apart(just like our moon cycles). When we begin to flow with these cycles, instead of against, a peace will instantly wash around you. You will begin to learn when to act on certain things, and when to back down, and patiently wait things out. Or when to release, all the things and people that hold you back, or that no longer serve you.

My youngest son was born during a Full Moon lunar Eclipse, and it was the most magical experience I have ever been through. Contractions started about 30 minutes after the eclipse started, and he was born about 30 minutes after sunrise(six hours total), when the moon had completed its pass through the skies, and its pull subsided. It was intense and amazing all at the same time, to look out my window and have our Moon, the beautiful Diana herself, as a birthing coach. An experience I will never forget, and one I love to share. No other moment can compare, to the connection I felt that night to my path, and to the Goddess.

The best book I have found, to keep up with the daily change in moon phases, is Llewellyn's Witches Notebook. I always refer to this book before doing a spell! It also has great info on the Sabbats, as well as recipes and more!



Click here to purchase the Llewellyn Witches Datebook for 2014!

 



Waxing- When the moon is growing in size, the phase before the Full Moon. This is the time for growth, and for spellworkings associated with gaining things. More money, increased hours at work, new love. A time for action and change. All these things have a better chance at fruition when the moon is waxing. Your period and p.m.s. will usually be stronger, and more emotional when it comes during this phase, as it is working against the flow.
Waning- When the moon is getting smaller in size, the phase between the Full Moon and the New Moon. This is the time for releasing. Let go of people or things that hold you back, or no longer serve you. During this phase is the perfect time to smudge your home, and release negativity. Your period and p.m.s. will usually be more mild, when it comes during this phase, as it is going with the flow, and is a form of release.
Full Moon- This is a time for completion of things that may have been started during the New Moon. A time for guidance from the Goddess, and reflection. Always "wash" your crystals and magical tools during this phase. Bask under the glow of a Full Moon when you are working spells regarding fertility. Full Moon phases are usually the most potent, therefore spells of great importance can be done for all 3 days of a Full Moon phase. The day before, the day of, and the day after a Full Moon. High strength spellworkings, such as Drawing down the Moon, and the Charge of the Goddess are always done on Full Moon nights.
New Moon- This is a time for new beginnings. Set goals and realize dreams during the New Moon. During this phase, our moon is absent from the sky, reminding us of faith in the things that cannot always be seen. It is a time of darkness, allowing us a time to look within ourselves.

Void of Course- A time when the moon is in a gap from one constellation to the next. Our moon is always traveling through the sky, passing through constellations as it goes. However, as it is moving, there will always be a small gap between signs. Sometimes these gaps only last a few hours. Other times, they can last nearly a full day or longer. When our moon is 'V/C', it is usually best to basically do the same. Wait to cast spells, because usually they rarely come to fruition, or may in fact backfire on you! Hold off on final transactions and contracts, and avoid confrontation or making any rash life changes. Giving yourself a timeout and being patient during a V/C moon will save you big time, in the end!

Moon in Astrological Signs- In order to properly enhance a specific spell, wait for the moon to land in the proper astrological sign. Specific signs assist for many specific goals, so many times, although it can be hard to be patient, it is well worth the wait, when dealing with something of great importance to you. For example, If you are working spells involving money or real estate, wait for the moon to enter Taurus. For freedom, friendship, or to break bad habits you could use the extra strength from an Aquarius moon. Each sign carries different strengths, so study them closely, and make them work for you and not against you.

By simply paying just a little more attention to the gravitational pull from our very own moon, we can shift our lives to live in a more cycled lifestyle, the way Mother Nature intended for us. Stop going against the current, and learn to follow your instincts. Love yourselves, and love one another.

Namaste

"The moon is always female"-Denise Levertov

 

The Charge of the Goddess

By, Doreen Valiente



Whenever ye have need of any thing, once in the month, and better it be when the moon is full, then shall ye assemble in some secret place and adore the spirit of She, who is Queen of all witches. There shall ye assemble, ye who are fain to learn all sorcery, yet have not won its deepest secrets; to these will She teach things that are yet unknown. And ye shall be free from slavery; and as a sign that ye be really free, ye shall be naked in your rites; and ye shall dance, sing, feast, make music and love, all in Her praise. For Hers is the ecstasy of the spirit, and Hers also is joy on earth; for Her law is love unto all beings. Keep pure your highest ideal; strive ever towards it; let naught stop you or turn you aside. For Hers is the secret door which opens upon the land of youth and Hers is the cup of wine of life, and the cauldron of Cerridwen, which is the Holy Grail of immortality. She is the gracious goddess, who gives the gift of joy unto the heart of man. Upon earth, She gave the knowledge of the spirit eternal; and beyond death, She gives peace and freedom, and reunion with those who have gone before. Nor does She demand sacrifice, for behold, She is the mother of all living, and Her love is poured out upon the earth.

She who is the beauty of the green earth, and the white moon among the stars, and the mystery of the waters, and the desire of the heart of man, calls unto thy soul. Arise, and come unto Her. For She is the soul of nature, who gives life to the universe. from Her all things proceed, and unto Her all things must return; and before Her face, beloved of gods and men, let thine innermost divine self be enfolded in the rapture of the infinite. Let Her worship be within the heart that rejoiceth; for behold, all acts of love and pleasure are Her rituals. And therefore let there be beauty and strength, power and compassion, honor and humility, mirth and reverence within you. And thou who thinkest to seek Her, know thy seeking and yearning shall avail thee not unless thou knowest the mystery; that if that which thou seekest thou findest not within thee, then thou wilt never find it without thee. For behold, She has been with thee from the beginning; and She is that which is attained at the end of desire.