Tarot Discussion - Osho Zen Card 9 - Ripeness

 

From the Osho Zen Tarot Deck... "Ripeness"

 

Life is pretty exciting right now!  I feel energized and I am getting constant input from friends and clients about the healing work I do and the workshops I teach.  As well, I am getting information, some would call them downloads from the Universe, about new workshops and healing sessions to offer. 

I have good feelings around writing the Angels And Ancestors Blog.  According to the Blog Stat Counter, daily, an average of fifty new readers are hitting the blog.  And, I am receiving thoughtful commentary from the readers that helps me understand the impact that my writing has for some people. 

Regardless of the economic situation, I feel as though the world is opening up and is poised for a wonderful, evolutionary shift for 2009.  I look for the funny, happy things that people are doing, even though the Media and Governments are throwing gloomy headlines at us that invoke fear in many.

So with all of these happy feelings, I was wondering what the Osho deck would have to say.  The card I pulled was "Ripeness". I felt a flash of concern! To me, ripeness is about reaching maturity and dying.  When we get ripe fruit, it has been picked off the tree or bush or vine, and then we "make" something of it - pie, jam, or, we simply eat it.  I wondered for a moment whether the card was telling me that my time was almost up.  Then I read the commentary. This part of the write up made my day!

"When the fruit is ripe, it drops from the tree by itself. One moment it hangs by a thread from the branches of the tree, bursting with juice. The next moment it falls--not because it has been forced to fall, or has made the effort to jump, but because the tree has recognized its ripeness and simply let it go. When this card appears in a reading it indicates that you are ready to share your inner riches, your 'juice'. All you need to do is relax right where you are, and be willing for it to happen. This sharing of yourself, this expression of your creativity, can come in many ways--in your work, your relationships, your everyday life experiences. No special preparation or effort on your part is required. It is simply the right time."  - From Osho Zen Tarot

I wish you the chance to let go and share who you are and what you know.

Stars & Planets - Earth-like Planet

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gaps in Epsilon Eridani's dusty comet and asteroid belts suggest that an Earth-like planet could be hiding past the inner asteroid belt.  ---Credit for Illustration --by Tim Pyle, SSC/JPL/Caltech

Many of us have long wondered if there was another "Earth" in the Universe.   This year, 2008, more and more evidence seems to be showing up and pointing to the possibility of another Earth being real!  The two articles below are showing planets that might be similar.

What does that mean to us?  First, that perhaps there are other beings like us on those planets.  We exist, why not have others existing?  Second, down the road, it may be a place that we can immigrate to and live peacefully.  Simply crossing the ocean to a new land did not lead to peace for our Ancestors! Third, it begins to make us conscious of  cosmology, and of the human being's place in the Universe; and that the Universe is finite as we know it.

A definition of cosmology is, "The science of the world or universe; or a treatise relating to the structure and parts of the system of creation, the elements of bodies, the modifications of material things, the laws of motion, and the order and course of nature." - from www.brainyquote.com

In Munay-ki, the Star Keeper Rites are about the human tie to the stars, and that we are responsible for the upkeep of the Universe just as we are responsible for the upkeep of our planet.  The astronauts in space and the various countries or companies that have satellites out in space are already starting the pollution of space by dumping their junk or unwanted machines in to empty space, much the way those on board ships dumped refuse into the ocean.  One needs to learn to take care of the junk! 

Perhaps that is why the other Earth-like planets are so far away - they do not want humans to hop over to them and bring their problems of discord and pollution.  Brian Swimme, cosmologist, talks about an intelligent Universe.  He may be on to something.

Earth-like planet in Epsilon Eridani? It is logical, Captain Updated 10/27/2008 12:31 PM  "NASA astronomers today report that the triple-ringed star has an asteroid belt and a Jupiter-like giant planet in roughly the same orbits as in our own solar system. Only 850 million years old, a fifth the age of Earth's sun, Epsilon Eridani resembles a younger twin to our solar system. About 62 trillion miles away, it is the closest known solar system"......excerpt from the article.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sky map with Alpha Centauri labeled. (Credit: NOAA Earth System Research Laboratory)

Alpha Centauri Should Harbor Detectable, Earth-like Planets  ScienceDaily (Mar. 7, 2008) — A rocky planet similar to Earth may be orbiting one of our nearest stellar neighbors and could be detected using existing techniques, according to a new study led by astronomers at the University of California, Santa Cruz.

Spirit Animal - Narwhal

 Narwhal tusking picture from Wikipedia....

 

 

 

 

 

 

Today, I was going through the news, and I saw the headline on trapped narwhals.  The headline is noted for people to reference. DFO seeks satellite imagery to trace tracks of trapped narwhals Last Updated: Friday, November 28, 2008 | 7:57 PM CT

I love whales and dolphins as do many people.  It saddened me to read that the article that showed that 500 narwhals are trapped in water that is confining them from the greater ocean.  To alleviate the situation, MAN is going in and killing some of the whales to allow the others to have more food and oxygen in the small space.  I wondered why there was not a better solution to the problem.  MAN's response made me think of Chief Seattle's words,

"Whatever befalls the Earth befalls the sons of the Earth.  Man did not weave the web of life, he is merely a strand in it.  Whatever he does to the web, he does to himself!"

To see Chief Seattle's speech see the blog - Words from a Savage?

The response to the whale's plight makes me think that MAN will respond that way to humans in distress.  If there is a shortage of food and water, some will be killed so there will be plenty for others. 

I trust that someone will come up with a better way to deal with situations where shortages seem evident. 

One of the messages that WHALE brings is...

"Some problems are too big to handle alone.  Get some help. Don't allow pride to keep you from sharing your worries with another.  They will deem it an honour that you asked them to help and will enlighten you."  --- from Animal Totems, The Power and Prophecy of Your Animal Guides by Trish MacGregor and Millie Gemondo

It seems that the narwhal's situation is somewhat ironic and a way that the whale is mirroring man's actions back to him.

Karma Yoga Thoughts - Namasté

Picture from the video "Namaste" as presented in the You Tube video noted below

 

When I first began to learn Yoga positions in the Seventies, classes were not common. So, I learned from a book.  Quite often, after a lesson, the word "Namasté" appeared on the page.  I asked some of my friends what it meant, and the definition that I learned was "peace be with you".  For years, this was my definition of the word. 

Over the last ten years, the use of the word "Namasté" has become quite common.  It is used in lectures in the New Age community, in Reiki teachings, in writing, and even in every day greeting, much like those in Asia did where the use of this word originated.  The actual word is a Sanskrit word.

My favorite definition is now...

"I honour the place in you in which the entire Universe dwells, I honour the place in you which is of Love, of Integrity, of Wisdom and of Peace. When you are in that place in you, and I am in that place in me, we are One." from Yoga Heals Us (2007). "Yoga Philosophy - Namasté". Yoga Heals Us. November 10, 2007.

I now have a new appreciation for the concept of Namasté from the videos on You Tube.  This video link... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YcgNJ7cgDVs  is a very lovely explanation of the concept.  May you enjoy the movie.

Namasté!

Ancestors Speak - Sun Enters Sagittarius

"Sagittarius" from Microsoft Clip Art                                            

                       

I was reading the wonderful book, "The Grandmother of Time" by Zsuzsanna E. Budapest, when I came across a day of celebration that I was not familiar with - the date is November 22!

On this day, according to Budapest, the Sun enters Sagittarius, and the Ancients honoured the Goddess, Artemis, the twin sister of Apollo.   Artemis was a Greek goddess that protected the forests and hills, and virginity and fertility.  Artemis roamed the hills and woods, most often carrying a bow and arrow.  The Deer and the Cypress Tree were very sacred to her.  Women all over prayed to her to aide them through conception and birthing.  One of the legends describes Artemis hunting the sacred Deer to kill it so that it is reborn again immediately to honour the cycle of life and death, and the sacrifice of the animals.

Sagittarius, in the Zodiac, is the sign of the Archer.  The dates for this sign are  November 22 - December 21 and it is the ninth house in astrology.  Sagittarius covers the qualities of:

* philosophy, idealism, religion, spiritual growth

* optimism, positive outlook, forward planning

* travel, freedom of movement, the outdoors

* honesty, justice, morality

* imagination, aspirations, open-mindedness

* wit, intellect, flashes of intuition

* generosity, pleasure, romance

Coincidentally, deer hunting season in Alberta is roughly around this time.  The actual dates vary between provinces and jurisdictions.  Bow hunting starts earlier than hunting with rifles.  The Ancestors would say that some things never change - we just do it differently.  The Deer is still sacred and still sacrifices itself to honour the cycle of life and death and the sacrifice of all animals.

For more about the Spirit Animal - Deer see Deer Dancing, Deer, When Great Spirit Talks Through Deer, 

Tarot Discussion - Osho Zen Card III - Creativity

 

The card called "Creativity" from the OSHO Zen Tarot deck

Over the last two days, I have been working on making cloth bags for Christmas presents.  As an Earth Keeper, it almost is making me ill to think of all the wasted paper that begins to accumulate this time of year because of the presents we wrap.  The gift bags are eco friendly and reusable, and that makes me feel like I am caring for the Earth.

Also, over the last several weeks, I have been making medicine bags, leather bags for wands, different bags for sacred tools, and I have made some talking sticks that are blessed and powered to create a feeling of peacefulness and a feeling of harmony with all.  And, most days, I write one or two blogs. 

All of these tasks are about recognizing the Creator in me.  Today, when I pulled my Zen Tarot card, the card pulled was "Creativity".  First, I am constantly intrigued by how Great Spirit communicates with us, and honours our endeavours.  For me, this card was a blessing on the things that I do.  Second, I loved the wording in the explanation of the card - YOU BECOME MORE DIVINE AS YOU BECOME MORE CREATIVE - and that seemed a very great blessing, as well.  The phrase comes from the following passage....

"Whatsoever you do, if you do it joyfully, if you do it lovingly, if your act of doing is not purely economical, then it is creative. If you have something growing out of it within you, if it gives you growth, it is spiritual, it is creative, it is divine. You become more divine as you become more creative.

All the religions of the world have said God is the creator. I don't know whether he is the creator or not, but one thing I know: the more creative you become, the more godly you become. When your creativity comes to a climax, when your whole life becomes creative, you live in God. So he must be the creator because people who have been creative have been closest to him. Love what you do. Be meditative while you are doing it - whatsoever it is! "- From the OSHO Zen Tarot

Whatever you are doing today, do it with love and find your creativity for then you will also find your Divinity!

Ancestors Speak - Signs From Above - Meteorite

On Thursday evening, November 20th, I flew into Lloydminster. The flight was to land at about 6:00pm.  Just as we approached the runway, a brilliant reddish light appeared on the right of the plane and seem to fall apart, much like fireworks.  On the plane, we all thought that someone had shot a huge flare skyward.  As this was my first trip to Lloyd, I wondered if the airport routinely fired flares to help light up the runway.  

What we all discovered the next day is that as passengers on the airplane, we witnessed an incredible event!  We saw a meteorite enter the Earth's atmosphere, and burn up as it fell to the ground.  For me, this was an incredible symbol that the work that I was doing was going to "light up" the lives of the people that I would be working with.  The Ancestors could not have given me a more positive sign!

To see more on the Meteorite, read the excerpt piece below.  The link leads to the entire story.

May you have many "flashes of light" in your life!

Pieces of large meteor may have landed in Saskatchewan - CHRIS PURDY    The Canadian Press  November 21, 2008 at 8:52 PM EST

SASKATOON — A leading researcher says one of the largest meteors to streak over Canada in the last decade broke up into pieces that may have landed in central Saskatchewan.

Planetary scientist Alan Hildebrand from the University of Calgary plans to spend the weekend in the Manitou Lake area near the town of Macklin, Sask., about 100 kilometres south of Lloydminster, near the Alberta boundary.

As co-ordinator of the Canadian Fireball Reporting Centre with the Canadian Space Agency, Mr. Hildebrand was busy Friday talking with some of the witnesses who sent him 300 e-mail reports about the fireball they saw light up the night sky Thursday.

Spirit Animal - Elk

North American Elk picture from Wikipedia

 

 

 

 

 

 

On Saturday, during the drive to Banff, we were constantly on the alert for Elk.  I have had past encounters with Elk on the road, and, in their majestic way, neither the bull or cow Elk will give way.  If Elk appears in your life, and you have a strong, personal energy, Elk may be reminding you that you descend from a lineage of royalty, and to carry yourself accordingly.

Elk is very strong and agile, and can run for miles.  When wolves or cougars attack the herd, all the Elk scatter in different directions to confuse the predator.  And, if cornered Elk will fight to the death either predator.  The message that Elk's strength and courage sends to you is to first understand the environment you are in - either home or work - and watch for changes in energy indicating that some danger is occurring for you.  The message is also about standing your ground and answering to your own principles.  When you are attacked, fight for what is true relentlessly.  To keep from being provoked, Elk cautions that you should take time for yourself and retreat to Nature occasionally, or simply spend time in solitude, away from friends and family.  This time of recharging will regenerate your strength and power.

Elk is well known to The People of the plains and the mountains.  Many of the stories told by the Ancestors tell of Elk being very large - as in giant large, and that in the days of creation, Elk created the mountains and the valleys by dragging its antlers through the ground in pursuit of those who would harm Elk.  Elk is also known as an animal that protects, and therefore is the totem animal for some, and the spirit guide for others.

When Elk walks into your life, you may be sure that you are in for an adventure!

Earth Keepers - To The Rescue of The Monarch Butterfly!

Picture from Microsoft Clip Art

 

In August, I wrote a blog about the disappearing Monarch Butterfly, and how it almost seemed a mystery that it was leaving its normal migration routes.  You can read about the Monarch at http://angelsandancestors.blogspot.com/2008/08/spirit-animals-monarch-butterfly.html.  Now, people are working together to help the Monarch move through the country. 

A delightful story appeared on CBC that talked about a woman who picked up an injured butterfly and worked to bring it back to health so it could migrate to Mexico.  Unfortunately, the broken wing was not mending.  So the young woman and her partner solicited help for the butterfly.  Read the entire story at New York couple and trucker help injured butterfly migrate south Published: Thursday, November 20, 2008 | 8:13 PM ET Canadian Press: THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

It seems that everyone is working to help the other species on Earth because we are all starting to realize that we are all related - Oneness is a truth.  Nature is deputizing people to help Her move the evolution of Her animals forward. 

Karma Files - Am I Worthless?

Picture of Arch from Microsoft Clip Art....

The question "Am I worthless" came up for me during an intense Karma Clearing session. 

The process started with a very bad pain in my hip and upper right thigh.  I felt the pressure of putting weight on my leg as I walked.  I had no idea what was going on.  The day had started out quite lovely - the sun was shining, the chickadees were singing in the woods, and flying around me like they were so happy to see me.  Yet, the pain was intense!  So, when physical pain comes up, one either throws it to fire by doing an Incan Fire Ceremony, or one can clear the karma surrounding the pain.

I chose to sit in Karma Clearing Through The Akashic Records Meditation to see if I could determine why the pain was there and so very intense.  As I drifted through time, I found myself observing a scene that was so clear, I would not misunderstand the vision.  I saw a small group of five or six humanoid type people walking upright on two legs.  They were intent on following something from the gestures that were made towards the trail and the jungle around them.  A female was very pregnant.  She kept walking and started to grunt.  A baby dropped out on the ground, landing on its hip, and then on its head.  The neck bent and it was clear the neck was broken.  The female realized that something unusual happened.  She did not seem prepared for birth at all.  She stopped and picked up the baby and looked at it, and then realizing it was dead, simply threw it off into the bush, discarding it as worthless.

The karma around the baby was the holographic memory that I was to clear.  It seemed that this baby was part of the feeling of isolation and not being wanted and of being worthless, that would surface from time to time in my life.  I have a very strong sense of self because of the great guidance of my Angels, particularly Archangel Michael, so I would easily overcome these times of despairing.  What was clear to me was that I really "felt" a connection to this tiny baby, and that it came in alone and went out alone.  What was also clear was that by witnessing the birth and death, I gave honour to the baby's short time because I mourned it and blessed it's passing over.

The Ancestors were not always about caring for the young and the old.  Many times they were simply about preservation of self.  I realized that many people today must be feeling some of these same feelings  - of  being here to take care of self, of being isolated and of feeling worthless.  This may be very true if the person has lost a job, a spouse, or perhaps their home.  The "movie or story" that I saw was about having faith that a situation is perfect and at some point, will be corrected.  There is also a strong sense of "healing self" that comes up with this story.  One needs to have the courage and to be willing to work with Karma, the Angels, and the Ancestors to help shift life patterns.

Does one need to be religious?  I know that one needs to be spiritual.  I don't know if they need to be religious.  I know that one needs to have faith in the balance and intrinsic law of "rightness" that pervades the Universe.  We may not know when our life will be validated.  To me, this movie and the death of this newborn gave validation to the event because it provided a lesson of life, for me, and possibly for anyone that reads this.

The other message is that our time on Earth is short for we do not know when we will leave.  We must, therefore, live our lives well - in loving kindness, in peace, and in ease.

Spirit Animal - Frog

Leopard Frog of North America - from Wikipedia

 

 

 

If you grew up in the country or if you live in the country or near a park, chances are that you have had a frog experience.  My frog experience started yesterday, when someone sent me a video of a little girl who had collected five frogs.  Then, I read a headline that talked about a frog being found in a package of spinach.  And finally, last night, I dreamt about frog.  So having received my Spirit Animal message in symbolism of three, I decided to find out what Frog was trying to tell me.

Frog has eyes that bulge out of its head to allow it to see in many directions at the same time.  It also has excellent hearing.  Frog's message then relates to clairvoyance and clairaudient abilities - one needs to look in all directions, rather than straight ahead, and one needs to listen closely for guidance or information that may assist in decision making.  Frog's voice comes from a windpipe similar to humans.  Therefore, Frog may produce some very complex sounds and many of these sounds do resemble human speech. Frog's message is also about speaking truth and communicating clearly. 

Frog is equally comfortable on either land or water.  It will jump from place to place, or swim for a long while.  While we may not be comfortable with all our emotions, Frog's message is that we need to "dive in and swim through" the emotions that are coming up for us right now.  Some of the emotional energy has to do with the shifting of the Earth, and some has to do with the changing times.

Since Frog goes through many transformations on its way to becoming an adult, humans see it as a symbol of transformation from the earthly to the spiritual.  The green colour of Frog  represents heart healing.   To heal the heart, one must deal with unresolved emotions.  (Not all frogs are green coloured, the colours of Frog around the world may represent different things.)  The leopard frog's spots represent "eyes".  The ability to see clearly in any situation, emotional or physical, or even cloudy, since Frog does like the mud. 

Our Ancestors have many legends and stories about Frog.  The story that relates to huge transformation is the one where the Princess kisses the Frog, and it turns into a handsome prince.  The story reflects change, trust, faith, and love.  There are fables and stories about Frog's relationship with other animals.  And, who can forget the most famous Frog of all time - Kermit, The Frog. Young and old have been able to learn lessons from Kermit's experience.  And, Kermit reflects that Frogs are about change!

May you hop from adventure to adventure!

Ancestors Speak - Maka, Mother Earth Meditation

Picture from Microsoft Clip Art

 

The Sioux believe that Maka, Mother Earth, is the third spirit that was born from Great Spirit or Wankan Tanka (the Sioux name for Creator).  Maka is about life, and particularly birthing new things - ideas, babies of every species - and love unconditional.

The meditation around Maka is written by Chief Archie Fire Lame Deer and Helene Sarkis, and appears in their book for the card deck "Lakota Sweat Lodge Cards".

I live that you may live.

In the dream time of Creation, I brought forth the womb for mankind and all his brothers. I represent the form of the woman's body. I nourish all to whom I give birth. You, child, are as dear to me as the ELK that roam the forest glade and the Trees that grow upon my body.  I Speak to you of abiding Love, of sustaining nourishment, of endless rounds of seasons and change.

I give you the gift of being yourself, being creative through your own individual expression.  And as a loving mother, I endure the separation and loss of my children, knowing that even as they leave me and denounce me, they are returning to me.

I am a place of rest where you are known in all your aspects. I am your home.

I am she who is your own Heart of hearts. I am creator of life upon this plane. With the energy of the Sun in Motion, I create the Passion that manifests.

Know that I am please with my children as they remember their origins and the wisdom of my heart, which is your own.

May you find your connection to Mother Earth, to Maka, within this meditation.  Peace be with you.

Spirit Animal - Deer Dancing

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Image of two deer from Wikipedia... These are Mule Deer.

Yesterday, The dogs and I were walking along the trail that borders the channel of water surrounding an island called "Poplar Island".  We heard a loud snort and felt commotion in the field.  The dogs and I glanced over to see a doe bounding through the field, flicking her tail, and then stopping to prance around, and then bounding away again.  The big buck galloped into the field, snorting, and puffing.  On of my dogs whined.  Both deer stopped dead and looked at us, in a manner quite similar to the two deer above.  The grass is even similar to what the deer were dancing in.  The deer were doing a mating dance.  Assessing that the dogs and I were not a threat, they began their dance of bounding, running, leaping and prancing for about ten minutes until finally the doe led the buck into the bush.

I was struck by several things:

-the harmony of rebirth actually starts in the fall when the world begins to go still.  Here, in Calgary, we also have a coating of snow in places.

-the male and the female, however, they are presented to us, are incomplete without the other half.  As we harmonize the male and female within us, the male and female in the physical will harmonize.  This will lead to men and women ceasing to dominate one another and setting rules to degrade or manipulate one another in the interest of power and religion.

-the dance of the deer is about the joy of living and participating in life.  Sitting on the sidelines is not a helpful thing to do!

-deer, male and female, bring a strong message about adaptability.  One needs to adapt to the situation and to the relationships around them; otherwise, one ends up alone. (from Animal Totems by Trish MacGregor and Millie Gemondo.)

-deer are ultimately about being peaceful and loving.  It is time to be good to yourself and learn to be at peace with all those around you and with the world in general.  All will be well!

Ancestors Speak - Turmeric Root

A picture of the Turmeric Root  from www.chinesemedicinenews.com

 

""Turmeric has strong antioxidant activity. It is more potent than either vitamin C or vitamin E. In the body these important disease-fighting substances mop up unstable oxygen molecules called free radicals that can otherwise damage cells and cause diseases such as cancer. One component, dimethylbenzyl alcohol, normalizes cholesterol in the blood, while curcumin removes accumulation of cholesterol in the liver. Turmeric normalizes arterial health. Turmeric is also called for when indigestion, gas, and eliminatory issues imbalance the body.   From http://www.bellybytes.com/nourish/turmeric_root.html""

  After reading the information above, it is easier to understand what our Ancestors wanted to do with  roots and creating medicine from combinations of food.  Yogis and herbalists have worked to create many recipes that both balance the ACIDIC/ALKALINE levels in our body as well as working to provide good nutrition. 

Other properties of Turmeric are that it lubricates joints, cleanses the skin, cleanses the mucous membranes and cleanses the female reproductive organs. Yogis advise that Turmeric lubricates the spine and helps break up calcium deposits.  One of the drinks that Yogis recommend is "Golden Milk".

Golden Milk Recipe

1/4 to 1/3 teaspoon Turmeric       1/3 cup of water

8 ounces of milk, dairy or non dairy,  1 teaspoon almond oil and honey to taste

Boil Turmeric ain water for about 8 minutes.  If water boils away, add more water.  Add milk and almond oil.  When mixture boils, remove from heat and add honey.  Makes 1 to 1 1/2 cups of Golden Milk.

(from Kundalini Yoga as taught by Yogi Bhajan, written by Shakta Kaur Khalsa)

Spirit Animal - Prairie Chicken

"Prairie Chicken Rooster" - From Wikipedia

 

On Friday morning, as I entered the last cul-de-sac prior to entering into the park, a flock of prairie chickens flew up off the road, almost in front of me and the dogs.  Sage, our golden retriever, was quite excited about seeing all of these birds fly up.  He barked and wanted to run after them.  I was simply astonished!  Prairie chickens are not normally in the residential area.

Chickens of all sorts have been part of the cycle of food for Man for a very long time.  Therefore, they speak about nourishment - for the physical, the spiritual and the emotional.  Since Chicken prefers to be in flocks, the message a flock brings is about the need to be with one's community from time to time.  Like beings "flock" together.  Prairie Chickens also like to form small circles of protection and comfort.  This message was actually a foreshadowing of the weekend that I was participating in... fourteen participants and two Shaman formed a small, tight circle for the purpose of growing, sharing, and releasing.

May you grow and change with a like minded community!

Tarot Discussion - Change - Card 10

This card of "Change" is from the OSHO Zen Tarot deck.

If you look around you, the change that is happening on this planet in the past few weeks has been fascinating to watch.  And, as each of us watch this huge movement of change in ideology, in financial structure, in the belief/lack of belief in the different governments and in the church, be aware that each of us is changing profoundly as well. 

This weekend, I attended a Sangoma Retreat.  It was two intense days of looking at myself, again. (Shaman are constantly re-looking at themselves.)  It was an intense time of change for me!  So, when I drew this card this morning, I was not surprised.  The Universe was reminding me that I needed to honour my changes and tell people how I was feeling.  The write up on the card describes the emotions that I went through this weekend.....

""Just see! If you can watch just for a few days, you will see a pattern emerging, a wheel pattern. One day, a fine morning, you are feeling so good and so happy, and another day you are so dull, so dead that you start thinking of committing suicide. And just the other day you were so full of life, so blissful that you were feeling thankful to God, that you were in a mood of deep gratefulness, and today there is great complaint and you don't see the point why one should go on living.... And it goes on and on, but you don't see the pattern. Once you see the pattern, you can get out of it.  Osho Take it Easy, Volume 1 Chapter 7""

Buddha Speaks - What is Self?

This picture of the Dali Lama comes from Wikipedia

In a workshop that I participated in on Wednesday, the notion of self came up.  I thought this passage was relevant to discussion of self!

- Judith

 

 

...when we talk about the notion of self in Buddhism, it is important to bear in mind that there are different degrees or types. There are some types of sense of self which are not only to be cultivated but also to be reinforced and enhanced. For instance, in order to have a strong determination to seek Buddhahood for the benefit of all sentient beings, one needs a very strong sense of confidence, which is based upon a sense of commitment and courage. This requires a strong sense of self. Unless one has that identity or sense of self, one will not be able to develop the confidence and courage to strongly seek this aim. In addition, the doctrine of Buddha-nature gives us a lot of encouragement and confidence because we realize that there is this potential within us which will allow us to attain the perfection that we are seeking. However, there are different types of sense of self which are rooted in a belief in a permanent, solid, indivisible entity called "self" or "I." There is the belief that there is something very concrete or objective about this entity. This is a false notion of self which must be overcome.
From Healing Anger by His Holiness the Dalai Lama 

Spirit Animal - Dragon

Dragon image from fantasygalleryart.com/library. Picture by Ciruelo.

 

 

 

 

What does Dragon mean to any of us?  Wikipedia has a wonderful list of general characteristics of a dragon which it draws from many cultures.  It says:

"There are many kinds of dragons in the different cultures. In general:

• A dragon is usually big and impressive
• A dragon has: none to four legs, claws, scales and possibly spikes. Optional wings
• A dragon perhaps looks like a snake with wings, or like lizards
• A dragon has a tail and a long neck.
• A dragon has a wide mouth with big and dangerous teeth
• Sometimes they have horns and hair.
• A dragon can fly
• A dragon can perhaps breathe fire (or other dangerous substances).
• A dragon has special powers.
• A dragon could have flight sacs full of hydrogen and methane, that not only help it to fly, but also to breathe fire.  - from simple.wikipedia.org/dragon "

The article clearly states that the dragon is mythical, and yet, here are some well known characteristics, and a picture to prove the traits.  We humans have a great love affair with Dragon.

When protégées take the rites of the Munay-Ki, the Third Rite, the Harmony Rite, provides the protégée with a "serpent" in the base chakra.  The archetype of serpent may be either a dragon or a lizard or snake.  Many protégées tell of receiving a black or red or blue or multi-coloured dragon as their first archetype.

What message does Dragon bring?  Dragon is about  being in integrity, about being a healer, about walking softly on this earth.  Each of these aspects of Dragon speak to us about being able to walk and talk our truth, and healing those around us.  The "walk softly" means that we need to stop leaving our footprints of destruction of nature on this Earth. 

Ancestors tell us that Dragon was one of the original earthly guardians of all things.  When Man advanced, Dragon believed that it could retire to another realm because Man would care for the world.  Dragon had taught its knowledge to Shaman, Wise Men and Wise Women.

If Dragon appears, she is telling you to remember that YOU must care for the Earth and help restore it to health.

Buddha Speaks - The Worm, A Buddhist Teaching Story

This is a teaching story by Ajahn Brahmavamso. It beautifully tells the story of how we get attached to our "stuff" or our "story".  Enjoy the read, and next time someone wants to help you change your circumstances, think of this tale.

Daibutsu-Buddha at the Kotokuin Temple in Japan  Picture from http://www.writespirit.net/religious_traditions/buddhism/Daibutsu-Buddha.jpg

 

There is a wonderful little story about two monks who lived together in a monastery for many years; they were great friends. Then they died within a few months of one another. One of them got reborn in the heaven realms, the other monk got reborn as a worm in a dung pile. The one up in the heaven realms was having a wonderful time, enjoying all the heavenly pleasures. But he started thinking about his friend, "I wonder where my old mate has gone?" So he scanned all of the heaven realms, but could not find a trace of his friend. Then he scanned the realm of human beings, but he could not see any trace of his friend there, so he looked in the realm of animals and then of insects. Finally he found him, reborn as a worm in a dung pile... Wow! He thought: "I am going to help my friend. I am going to go down there to that dung pile and take him up to the heavenly realm so he too can enjoy the heavenly pleasures and bliss of living in these wonderful realms."

So he went down to the dung pile and called his mate. And the little worm wriggled out and said: "Who are you?", "I am your friend. We used to be monks together in a past life, and I have come up to take you to the heaven realms where life is wonderful and blissful." But the worm said: "Go away, get lost!" "But I am your friend, and I live in the heaven realms," and he described the heaven realms to him. But the worm said: "No thank you, I am quite happy here in my dung pile. Please go away." Then the heavenly being thought: "Well if I could only just grab hold of him and take him up to the heaven realms, he could see for himself." So he grabbed hold of the worm and started tugging at him; and the harder he tugged, the harder that worm clung to his pile of dung. Do you get the moral of the story? How many of us are attached to our pile of dung?

Spirit Animal - Cat

From Wikipedia - A six-month old Chocolate Abyssinian (left) with his Sorrel father

 

At the Crystals' Light workshop on Saturday and Sunday, the subject of "cats" came up, several times, as a topic of conversation.   As well, several of my friends and my clients have been telling me that they have the overwhelming urge to get a cat or a kitten.   Then yesterday, at a store, the following sign struck me as funny - "The cat and his housekeepers live here!"  It seemed to me that Cat was giving ME a message to write some information about it to share with everyone.

Cat has some amazing characteristics, and we humans are very fond of them and just a little in awe of them!  Several mystery writers have written series featuring cats.  Walt Disney had a hit movie with "That Darn Cat!".  And, in nursing homes and some hospitals, cats are being used as healing therapists.  Cat has many talents!

This animal has moved from the wild to the domestic scene with relative ease, and, as many cat housekeepers will tell you, Cat as never been truly domesticated for she moves in the night and kills with ease.  Cat is sacred to the goddesses Bast, Sekhmet - both Egyptian deities - and Palu, the Celtic goddess.  The legends of our Ancestors retold as fairy tales tell of Witches with Cat familiars.  And, do you remember the story of "Puss In Boots" from your childhood?

When Cat comes into your life with purpose, one may be sure that a message is involved.  Cat is about staying true to who you are, to being conscious of one's surroundings and living in the present.  Cat does not worry about the past or the future.  The moment is the "present". When the circumstances seem difficult, take a page from Cat's operating manual, and be confident that all will work out and trust your intuition.   After all, Cat has some immortality, for she has nine lives!

Buddha Speaks - What is Happiness?

 

  Picture of Buddha's first sermon - from Wikipedia

Clients come to see me for a variety of reasons.  Recently, however, clients come in and talk about how they feel, and they talk about how they are not happy.  The best teaching story about happiness that I have read comes from Buddhist teachings. 

Here is a story about happiness.

"Once I was staying with my mother in London. At the time she was the housekeeper for a very wealthy Canadian who lived in a luxury flat just off Hyde Park. They all went off for a while, and I had the flat to myself. There I was in London, living in this luxurious flat with two huge colour television sets and all the food I could possibly eat! I had enough money for whatever I wanted, lots of records, lots of everything. But I was so bored!  I told myself, "Please remember this. If you are ever tempted to think that physical comfort gives happiness, remember this."

But then, another time I was staying in a cave, not my cave but another cave, which was very small. It was so small that you couldn't stand up in it, with a tiny box you could only just sit in, and that was the bed as well. It was full of fleas, so I was covered in flea bites. You had to go half a mile down a very steep track to bring up water. There was also almost no food at all, and it was hot. But I was in bliss. I was so happy. It was a very holy place, and the people there were wonderful. Although from a physical point of view the situation was difficult, so what! The mind was happy. I remember that whole place as being bathed in golden light. Do you see what I mean?"   from Ani Tenzin Palmo, from "Reflections on a Mountain Lake: Teachings on Practical Buddhism'

Each person reading this story will have a different take away, and that is a good thing.  What I hope that everybody understands from this story is that our happiness stems from how happy we are at the time we examine our happiness.

As the last line of the "Loving Kindness" Meditation says, "May you be happy!"

Ancestors Speak - Faerie Folk

Golden Fairy - picture from Webweaver's free clipart  www.webweaver.nu

 

From the earliest legends in most of the countries around the world, stories exist about "little people with wings" - the Fey Folk or the Faerie.

When our Ancestors still honoured the Fairy Folk or Faery Folk, the Fey would visit newborns and give them blessings that included beauty, wealth, kindness, wisdom, love of music, storytelling, and/or strength and courage.  The legends say that it is from the blessings bestowed by Faery that some of our greatest ancient heroes emerged.

Faeries love fun, music, flowers and are said to be the true caretakers of Nature since humans did not seem to be up for the job.  Therefore, most humans do not see Faerie Folk, however, all animals do seem to see them.  Legend also says that when Faery Folk want to travel along the Earth, they hitch a ride on some agreeable animal such as Fox, Wolf, Hawk, or Eagle. 

More and more humans, however, are believing that Faeries exist.  People out walking in the woods or meadows often see the bright sparkling light that is a fairy light.  Others see them in the plants and the trees which they care-take and may merge with from time to time.  Some people have seen the Faery come out and dance around their bonfires, after the humans have retired for the night.  More and more, people are talking about the odd rings found in lawns - rings that are called "Faery Rings".

"The myth of the fairy was thought to have originated in Celtic and Norse regions. The fairy gave the Irish a sense of pride that they had never felt before. They had never had a folk story originate from their country and were proud to say that fairies were seen there first. Many countries after Ireland soon began to report the sightings of these magical beings, but in Ireland "fairies were almost a political and cultural necessity" (Silver 34). Many legends and stories originated from them and began to expand into the whole culture of Europe."  from http://www.umd.umich.edu/casl/hum/eng/classes/434/charweb/Holmes1.htm

Watch for further stories about Faery Folk and how they interact in our lives.

Spirit Animal - Red Fox

"Red Fox" - picture from Microsoft Clip Art

 

Several Saturdays ago, I was talking on the phone and staring out our living room window into the cul-de-sac where I live.  I was totally surprised when a very large red fox ran into the cove, circled it, and raced out.  I stopped talking!  My friend thought the cordless phone had died and started shouting - "Hello, hello! Are you there?"

In truth, I wasn't for several minutes.  I was far away wondering why a fox had showed up in my life.  Fox's colour is black feet with red back and sides and head, and some white on the belly, throat and muzzle.  Fox does blend in to it's surroundings, and yet running through the cove, it did not blend at all.  It stuck out!

What we know about fox is that we humans think that it is sly or cunning.  We hear phrases like "smart like the fox" or "a thief like a fox" or "crazy like a fox".  All these expressions are an aspect of Fox's character that humans recognize but do not necessarily understand.  We also recognize the beauty of the fox, for we refer to beautiful women as "Foxy Ladies". 

Fox has a reputation throughout the world.  In Chinese mythology, Fox is said to be a demon or spirit in disguise because Fox has shape-shifting power.  In Bolivia, the legends pay tribute to Fox for bringing heavenly fruit seeds to Earth, from a feast Fox attended in Heaven.  The Oneida Nation tells the story that Fox was responsible for Bear loosing his great, bushy tail, and that Fox's trick on Bear is the reason bears and foxes do not get along.

All of these characteristics and stories reflect the messages that Fox wants us to know.  Some may apply for your current situation, and others may not.  Fox comes to teach us and remind us that:

--one must use their ability to be invisible, by camouflaging themselves, to blend in when one is not sure of the group.

--one must use great cleverness in moving out of situations where one is not sure who the predators (bad guys) are.

--Fox likes the dusk and the dawn the best because it is easier to blend in, and this time is also the time that we associate with magic and fairies, and therefore Fox reminds you to look to the dawn for guidance from the Spirit realm.

Follow the guidance of Fox, and move through this world with grace!

Ancestors Speak - A Way of Life Is Being Measured

  Picture from Microsoft  Clip Art

As I read the article about the small Saskatchewan town, I realized how much our Ancestors looked for locations that would provide a healing place to live, allow people to be out in Nature, prove that people may be at Peace, and show that Life is what one makes it.

The legend of the name of the town, changing the name from Omega to Ogema (Big Chief in Cree) was actually a prophecy of what was to come for the town.  Now, one hundred years later, this town is taking a position as a world wide choice - as the global village has really become smaller - as a place to live and raise a family.  The Angels have kept the town from most of the harm that befalls small towns of under 500 people, and has allowed it to blossom and become a leader in small town growth and design. 

Even as the Chiefs of The People worked hard to find good settlement sites for the tribe, this "Big Chief" has managed to draw more people to it in the last several years simply by innovating.  The far sightedness of the Ancestors and the ability to see outside the box of the Mayor and Town Council have moved this little town into a very healing place for the residents and the surrounding community. 

Well done!

Small Sask. town up for award as world's most livable community Published: Tuesday, November 4, 2008 | 10:15 PM ET Canadian Press: THE CANADIAN PRESS   - excerpt from this article " OGEMA, Sask. - A tiny community in southern Saskatchewan is being recognized as one of the most livable places in the world. Ogema has made the shortlist for the 2008 International Awards for Livable Communities" ...... " The town's quirky name wasn't the first choice for the pioneers who settled in the area starting in 1908. According to the town's website, townsfolk picked the name Omega, the Greek word for end, since at that time, the settlement was the "end of the rail line." But when they applied to register the name, they were told another town already had that name. So the settlers changed it to Ogema - it was original and it retained all the letters of the original name. Ogema is Cree and means "big chief."

Spirit Animal - Deer

A picture of a young buck, early in the morning, taken by my student Carol...

One of my friends and students was out walking with me and my dogs the other morning.  I asked her to write an account of her meeting with Deer. This account might resonate with you, as well...........

 

"One morning on our walk with the dogs, a young Buck springs out of the trees about 100 yards ahead of us. The  Buck slows his journey and turns and looks at us. This is uncommon for these creatures as they are shy and tend to stay away from humans. For about a total of 5 minutes, the buck was bounding in slow motion then stopping and looking at us. He was parading for us and making sure we saw him.

When animals go outside their normal behaviour and make a point of us seeing them, usually they are there to bring a message to us. Deer is a very intuitive animal. This skill along with acute hearing and eye sight is what protects them from their predators. Deer is about gentleness.   "When a deer shows up in your life it is time to be gentle with yourself and others. A new innocence and freshness is about to be awakened or born. There is going to be gentle, enticing lure of new adventures. When a deer shows up, there is an opportunity to express gentle love that will open new doors to adventure for you. The buck can also represent rejuvenation, rebirth, and the passage of time." 

So what this means for me is that things are about to change.  Recently I have been in a roller coaster of emotions and difficult events. It seems that now I will enter into my role as teacher and student, where I was six years ago,  and prepare for my next step in life in gentleness. 

I used the very helpful book, Animal Speak, by Ted Andrews, First edition 2006, page 264 to help me with my message.  I also used http://www.greatdreams.com/animals.

Ancestors Speak - Thy Will Be Done

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

This amazing slide comes from a loving movie called
"The Lord's Prayer".  You may see the movie and download it at www.LordsPrayerMovie.com. 

As this day - US Election Day 2008 - unfolds, will the world be at peace with the outcome?  Will we accept that the new president is in divine order, whoever he may be? 

"Thy will be done" is such a strong statement of faith in Great Spirit or The Divine or The Universe, or what ever you may see the guiding hand as. 

Our Ancestors saw all as being ordered and peaceful.  They saw the Earth as our healing place and many times individuals would go out into the wilderness to heal.  They had that faith that all is well and ordered.  Our Ancestors accepted - thy will be done - and watched how perfectly events seem to happen, whether or not we understand them. 

The Meditation for today is:  "Great Spirit, help me find the balance in my life.  Help me to see through all the stories to know the truth in all things.  Help me find a place of peace where I may view the events with out emotion, and enjoy them in their perfection.  May I be filled with love for all.  And, it is so!"

Spirit Animal - Swan

Swans in a field on a frozen pond in October -- by Hillary Schneider, used with permission .

 

 

 

 

 

Swan is one of the most beautiful birds, and as the winter months approach, the picture of Swan reminds us of the song line - "Seven swans a-swimming" from "The Twelve Days of Christmas".  The line is quite poignant because it is telling us that Swan moves through the water quietly, and that at this stressful time of year, we too should learn to move gently through life, through our emotions, and not battle life.

If Swan shows up for you, it is a message that one needs to take on the Swan's endurance.  Swans are a fast, steady flier, and they have the ability to go great distance without tiring.  Swan tells you to set your goal and move steadily towards it, without fear.

The white outline of Swan is long noted as a symbol of purity, of spirit, of wonder and of innocence.  This magical bird seems to fly high and use its long, graceful neck as an antennae to gather information from Great Spirit and the heavens.  We are reminded to stretch up and ask The Divine, The Universe, for both help and for the knowledge to carry out our tasks.

If you are having personal relationship issues, and Swan shows up for you, then you are being reminded of Swan's integrity in committing to a mate for life.  Humans make commitments they do not honour. This message is about choosing wisely, speaking the truth, and walking with integrity so that others recognize you as one who is honourable.

May your journey be one filled with magic moments and great truths!

Spirit Animal - Skunk

This lovely picture of a striped skunk comes from the posting on "Skunks" on Wikipedia...

 

One of the most feared and least understood animals is the skunk. Most of us simply know Skunk by reputation – it is small, black and white, and protects itself with a fearsome smell that takes months of washing with tomato juice to fully clear from your skin and hair or your dog’s skin and hair.

Skunk, with it’s black and white colouring, is about magic and mystery, from the very basic, dark mysteries (black) to the highest pure and good mystery (white). Skunk comes to us as a teacher. First, it teaches us about moving slowly, and being in command of our environment; of understanding what is around us fully. It teaches self confidence. Because it is very small and the prey of the very big (Great Horned Owl “loves” skunk as the feature menu), Skunk is very aware of what it feels. It teaches us to trust our instincts. If it feels threatened, Skunk stamps to give warning that it is not happy. Skunk teaches us to look beyond the physical site to “search out what is going on by using our inner site or third eye, and to trust this other vision”.

Skunk is unobtrusive and goes about its business quietly. It does not blunder around making loud noises or in any way drawing attention to itself. It’s scent warns others away from the area it is in, even if others cannot see Skunk. The message for those who are receiving Skunk Teaching is to go through your journey quietly, doing what needs to be done, and slipping away when the work is finished.

Skunk medicine is about being in balance. If the Skunk is feeling secure, the scent it emits is very faint and may be confused with the scent of the skunk cabbage which grows in small bush areas. Skunks eat a very balance diet consisting of insects and larvae, earthworms, small rodents, lizards, salamanders, frogs, snakes, birds, moles, and eggs. They also commonly eat berries, roots, leaves, grasses, fungi, and nuts. (Information on diet from Wikipedia) Skunk clearly shows that it eats what is in season and what is provided to it by Mother Nature. For those getting a lesson in Skunk Teaching, this lesson is about balancing one’s diet with the food readily available in one’s environment, and allowing the digestive system to process food that is compatible and not from wildly different geographic locations. Skunk loves honey, and therefore teaches us to enjoy the sweetness of life – to “take it as it comes, and have a good sleep to celebrate the feast of sweetness”.

If Skunk is appearing to you, pay attention to what is going on around you. Examine your environment, your food intake, and your spiritual journey. Perhaps it is time to make some changes. © October 2008 Judith Hirst-Joyeux. Judith is a Sage-Healer-Shaman who works with the Goddesses and Gods, Great Spirit, and angelic realms to move quickly to the source of issues or blocks.

Ancestors Speak - How to Make Ancient Yogic Recipe For Weight Loss Tea

Picture from Microsoft Clip Art

 

One of the more common ailments amongst the clients that I see is the issue of weight, and the effect of extra weight on one's health.  Our food is processed, filled with chemicals that are toxic to our bodies, and much of the active vitamins and minerals may have been removed, essentially leaving "toxic waste" for our digestive systems to work with.

As the body tries to work with the nourishment that it gets, it moves the toxins and puts them in our fatty tissues and then builds more cells around the toxin to protect the body.  The layers of build up increase our bulk and our weight.

In the book, "Kundalini Yoga as Taught by Yogi Bhajan", and written by Shakta Kaur Khalsa, some of the ancient secrets for dealing with weight issues are included in the section, "Healing Foods".  The recipe is called "Weight-Loss Tea" and has several benefits if you drink two to three glasses of it per day:

a) it is used to dissolve fatty tissue,

b) it improves the beauty and youthfulness of the skin,

c) it cleans the mucous membrane of the colon, and,

d) it is a very good source of Vitamin C.

Making Weight Loss Tea

1/4 to 1/3 cup of dried mint leaves             2 cups cumin seeds

1 tablespoon fresh or frozen tamarind*      ¼ teaspoon black salt**

4 lemons, quartered                              ½ tablespoon of black pepper

3 quarts of water

* tamarind is a tropical fruit and may be purchased as a paste at any Asian store

** black salt has been used as a cancer preventative, and may be purchased at an Asian store. The taste and smell are strong so use very little of this ingredient.

Combine all the ingredients in a large pot and boil, and then lower the heat and keep at a low boil for several hours to release the benefits of the cumin seeds. If water evaporates, replace it. Strain out the solids to use again with 4 fresh lemons. Serve hot or cold. Tea and solids may be stored in the refrigerator for a week. Makes 2 ½ to 3 quarts.

As with anything one eats, or with any exercise program, the benefits and inches will come off over time.  I suggest taking this tea for four weeks, and then taking a four week break before continuing for another four weeks.  This tea will help people take off four to seven pounds off in three to four weeks without other changes to the diet.

May you be well!

Judith