101 Wishes for New Year's

Picture of a lit candle from Microsoft Clip Art..... 

"You are never given a wish without also being given the power to make it come true. You may have to work for it, however. " - quote by Richard Bach

In 1991, after taking a sales training course, I started the year off with making a list of 101 wishes that I had for the coming year.   I still do this!  On New Year's Day, I will sit down and write out my 101 wishes, and as I achieve them, I will check the item off as complete.

The first several years that I worked on this task, it actually took me several days to complete the list.  You see, being younger, and knowing that I must wish only for those things that were entirely for me, it seemed like a difficult task.  The object is not to be selfish.  The object is to wish for the one person that you can be absolutely certain that you have permission to select "goals" for.  When you wish something for others, without their permission, you are actually interfering in their lives by thinking that you know what is best for them.  That is pretty egotistical!  It is easy to wish things for others.  However, when you run into difficulty in wishing stuff for yourself, like I did, what you are seeing is that you are not comfortable asking for things for yourself.  Becoming comfortable asking for wishes, help, or even defining what it is you need, is a learning curve of stepping into one's own power.

What if what ever we asked for for ourselves automatically benefited ten other people?  Would it be easier?  The answer is no.  Because we know other people are directly involved, we become even more reluctant to wish something for ourselves - because we might make the wrong choice.  Let me make one thing clear.  Our Angels tell us over and over that there are not any wrong wishes.  Even though someone on the outside may judge a wish as "wrong", what that person is really saying is that it is a wrong wish for them, and yet it is the perfect wish for you.  We are individuals.  Everything that we wish has ripple effects that act as a change agent and it is all good.

This year, I will start my list with things like:

1.  I wish that my blog readers total 1 million by December 31 2009.   (Note that the request needs to be specific, and that how that gets accomplished is left to the Universe.)

2.  I wish that my dining room table and chairs be delivered by January 23rd, without any damage to any piece of furniture.  (The first set had damaged legs and arms on chairs and damaged table legs.)

3.  I wish to create five new Angels And Ancestors workshops by June 30 2009. 

I offer that preparing this list of 101 wishes is a good way to tell Great Spirit and our Angels And Guides what it is that you want so they will begin working on fulfilling what it is THEY think you need.

When I have completed my list, I will send up all of the wishes with the flame of several candles, and then blow the candles out, much like blowing out the candles on a birthday cake.  Well, it is the birthday of a New Year, so I guess that is appropriate.

Have a wonderful New Year's Eve!

Judy@angelsandancestors.com

Spirit Animal - Chameleon

Picture of Chameleon from Wikipedia.

 

 

" When a person is described as chameleon, the reference to the animal is generally a commentary on the person's ability to blend into various social situations, often to mean the person has no true values, or that he quickly abandons them in company if it's convenient to do so." - quote from Wikipedia.

As another year ends, it seems that the World is taking on the characteristics of Chameleon.  Chameleon blends with her environment. She moves deliberately and with a slow grace.  When feeling threatened, she puts on a huge show of colour and puffs up to scare off those approaching her. 

Each day on the news, we hear about different countries posturing and threatening each other in a big show of force.  The contrast is that we hear nothing from many countries because the people there are deliberately doing their "stuff" each day, and working to blend in harmony with the planet. 

Chameleon has learned to blend in and "harmonize" with her environment.  By doing so, she finds the food that she needs, she stays safe, and she flourishes.  Chameleon has been appearing in ads on TV, in ads in magazines, and she has become advertised as a very easy to care for pet.

When Chameleon arrives in our life, we are being reminded that the turmoil around us is a gift.  We do not need to react to it.  We need to look at it, and figure out how to balance with it, and use it to further our journey.  If we fight against the environment, our path will be difficult.  Emotions, energies, and desires of others will conspire to block us.  If, however, we blend, we are able to navigate without interference.

Chameleon responds to the vibrations of her prey, of her predators, and of the environment (weather, vegetation).  She is an example of being able to "feel" the different energies or vibrations and to make use of them.  Many of us in this fast paced world ignore the energies around us and then wonder why we have been blind sided or misunderstood, or what ever scenario comes up for you in your victim mode.  Chameleon's guidance is to slow down, listen, watch, feel, and smell what is going on around you. 

May you walk with Chameleon's blessing on this Earth.

Judy@angelsandancestors.com  

See more on energy....

Earth Keepers - Minding The Earth 

Spirit Animal - Frog 

Spirit Animal - Ostrich

Ancestors Speak - NIYAN, Spirit of Man

Man in Celebration - picture from Microsoft Clip Art...

I was reading a legend of the Lakota that said Wakan Tanka (Great Spirit) created Niyan or the Human Spirit, so that man/woman kind would understand the significance of life and death.  Wakan Tanka created these two passages to help individuals realize that people were part of the Great Circle and that the human Spirit is eternal and will keep dying and living as it learns and understands how it is connected to all things. 

As we take our journey along the path of Spirituality, we learn that there is the human body, gifted to us by Mother Earth, and made from Her.  We require  oxygen, carbon, nitrogen and hydrogen to live.  Hydrogen and oxygen combine to create water, and the human body is anywhere from 60% to 80% water, depending on body size.  Additionally, we require minerals, again from Mother Earth, in order to survive.  All the minerals that we require come naturally from plants and animals. Hence the phrase, "we are what we eat". 

Over time, Man/Woman has given away power to others because we have forgotten that we have a Higher Self, a direct connection to the Divine.  We have been told by various religions that we cannot speak to Creator on our own.  We must go through someone who knows more than we do.  We are told that our deaths are final, in some religions, and in others, that our Spirit must go through Hell to be reborn.

As seasons change and as the calendar changes, we are given wonderful examples of cycles or circles being unending.  We are shown through the physical, what the metaphysical is - timeless.  With that timelessness, we are reminded that we have all that we need to be in this world peacefully and successfully.  We have a connection to our Higher Self - to our own Spirit.  And, this Spirit will give us answers, coach and guide us.  We have all of the answers and knowledge with in us to walk this world. 

Now is a good time to determine whether you have given your power away and are letting others direct your life. Examine whether someone is coaching you - such as an athletic coach who instructs and coaches to help the athlete perform better - or whether they are controlling you - limiting what you can do and when, and interfering with your connection to the Higher Self and to Source. 

If you wish to reconnect to your Higher Self, meditation and being attentive to the physical and symbolic messages around you will help you communicate with your Spirit.  Remember, no one can take your journey for you and no one is qualified to make judgements on your journey because it is unique to you. 

May you journey in a kind and peaceful manner.

Judy@angelsandancestors.com

Tarot Discussion - Osho Card 10 - Harmony

Picture of Osho's number 10 Card called "Harmony"... from the Osho Zen Tarot deck

The Earth's changes are thought by many to be symbolic of the destruction that Man has heaped on Mother Earth.   Man has moved so far away from the integrity of being in Harmony with the Earth - Man destroys much of what is on the Earth to use those resources and what is below the surface to fulfill some endless ache for power.

The symbology of the two dolphins - male and female - moving out from the heart - reflect that we must harness the male and female sides of ourselves to be in total balance.  And, as the destination that the dolphins choose is the Third Eye, the lesson in the card reflects that without our internal balance, we will not clearly see the world.  If we are too male, we will see it from a position of being in strength and wanting to conquer.  If we are too female, we are very nurturing of others, and sometimes may let ourselves be too soft, or used too easily. 

The dolphins, too, represent that "leap of faith" that we all need on our journey, spiritual or not.  We need to believe that we can be at peace, that we can be happy, that we can even be joyful and playful. 

May you find "Harmony" today!

Judy@angelsandancestors.com

Spirit Animal - Bat

"Common Bat" found throughout North America - picture from Wikipedia

There are many beliefs in this world about BAT.  Some people in Africa believe that the Bat is a physical manifestation of the soul - thus allowing the soul of the individual to travel at night to complete the work that the Soul has left unfinished.

North American indigenous people believe that the Bat is a trickster type spirit whose home is in the Underworld.  Bat comes to Earth to trap those with weak morals or ethics and when the individual shows their weakness, Bat takes them below ground to work out the person's sins.  Eastern cultures believe that Bat represents abundance and long life.  It seems that all of these beliefs might be true.

Since Bat represents the link between the Day and the Night because it flies only at night, it is said to be blessed by Mother Goddess of the Moon.  The colours of Bat - red, brown, black - connect it with Mother Earth and with the base chakra - representing how we walk on this Earth.  If we walk in harmony, one does not fear Bat.  Just as Bat uses sonar to find its food and discern obstacles, we can use our "hidden" connection to Mother Earth to know which of her creatures and plants and trees are around us.  If we understand that Bat is nearby, Bat does not scare us.  If we walk in power on this Earth, we do not understand the ways of animals, especially Bat, and we fear it.  We make up stories about what wrongs it does.

Bat has been appearing more and more in writings and in pictures.  For the west coast of North America, it may be the hero that is needed to fight against the pine beetle which is stripping the pine trees of their needles, and eventually killing the tree. 

Medicine Woman sees Bat as representing the Night - and with Night, astral travel, dreams, intuition, and past life scenarios.  Bat is also about seeing without one's eyes to see what is REALLY out in the world.  Bat is known for seeing TRUTH.

Bat brings messages such as:

- perhaps it is time to stop and reflect on life and make some changes.  When Bat thinks and sleeps, it does so up side down.  When the God, Odin, wanted to understand and make changes, he hung on a tree for nine days and nine nights.  So take some time to yourself.

- some say that seeing is believing.  Bat will tell you that is not true.  What truth is it that you are missing because you are looking right at it?  Close your eyes.  Be in silence and "listen" for the TRUTH as you send out your thoughts around the situation.

Judy@angelsandancestors.com

Ancestors Speak - Orbs as Guardians

  Picture of Judy and Magic and Sage under the Rock Overhead almost at the end of Lake Louise.  Taken in November, 2008 and used with permission.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

On a rainy day in November, Roger and I and the dogs took a day to drive up to Lake Louise.  We stopped and hiked along the way.  And, later, after a small lunch in Lake Louise Chateau, hiked almost to the end of Lake Louise.  It had snowed several times prior to that day. The rain was turning the steeper slopes into very icy walkways. 

This picture with the dogs and me with the Orbs shows how they tend to move around.  If you look closely, you can actually see an orb along side Magic - the black and white dog.  Even though we were having to tread carefully, and it was raining, we were having a lot of fun!  This was the end of the trail for the dogs and for me.  Roger had headed down the trail a bit further to see if the conditions improved.  I was laughing and singing to the dogs.  I could hear a gentle hum, like music that I couldn't place.  When this picture was snapped, we looked at it and realized that the Orbs were dancing all around the dogs and me.  You can see the movement on some of them, going up, and going sideways. Some would say that they are trying to get out of the picture, others would say they are dancing. 

When I thought that perhaps I would follow Roger down the steeper slope of the trail and try to hold on to two large dogs, I felt a gentle push on my chest pushing me backwards.  There was a definite warning not to try the descent.  So I waited at this spot until Roger appeared.  It took him a long time.  Not only was the descent quite icy, so the return climb was hard work - he was helping several other trekkers to get up the incline. 

I realized that the Orbs had pushed me back, and it seemed that they were acting as a Guardian for me and the dogs to keep us out of trouble and to prevent us from moving down the slope when the others were coming up.  I would not be able to see anyone coming up until I went down about two hundred feet, and went around the jut in the mountain.

I am very grateful to the Orbs for watching over us that day.

Judy@angelsandancestors.com

Ancestors Speak - Orbs

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Picture of orbs in Judy and Roger's back yard taken by our friend Caro, and used with permission.

Orbs are happy things!  It seems that they appear in our house and our yard when ever there is something very happy, joyful, or very spiritual going on.  I have seen pictures where the Orbs seem to be sitting and waiting for someone to come and discover what ever the Orb is sitting.  A good example was the Orbs waiting in an old barn in South America for someone to come and find the 1940's cars, mostly in new condition.  Making that discovery would indeed be a happy time!

The Orbs above appeared after a day of workshop that I was teaching.  I could hear them and feel them in the house and I knew that they would be stronger in the yard.  I said that if anyone wanted Orb pictures, now would be a good time.  I hear the orbs as a very high pitched hum or frequency disturbance. 

Our Ancestors, in Norse, Celtic, and Greek traditions, claimed that Orbs were Faery lights, or were souls who had not crossed over, or were impish spirits sent to spy on the humans. 

When Orbs appear to us, it seems that they are drawn by the light and the energy, and that they want to be part of the celebration.  They feel organic and intelligent, with a sense of goodness about them.  It seems, the ones we see, are similar to us in energy and are from a different time and space.

We were simply delighted to have all this little visitors hanging out around the deck in the trees.

May you have new light in your life!

Judy@angelsandancestors.com       See also:

Karma Files - Skills of the Mind;

Orbs in Our Yard on June 16 2008

We Wish You A Merry Christmas!

Christmas Wishes - picture by Judy

This is a very happy, peaceful day at our house.  The last two days have been filled with gathering and cooking, wrapping and laughing - and various phone calls across the miles to loved ones in cities from Victoria to Montreal.

We wish that each of you find the peace and the joy that surrounds us.  We wish that each of you is finding your own love and laughter with the family and friends that you are with! We wish that each of you find your path and that your journey is easy and blessed!

Judy@angelsandancestors.com

Ancestors - Home Remedy for Diarrhea, IBS, Colitis Symptoms

Picture from Kaboodle.com

 

I am hearing more about different individuals who suffer from diarrhea, Colitis, IBS, or Crohn's disease.  Dis-ease would truly be the description of this "irritating" problem of needing to be close to a bathroom.   Unless specifically caused by a bad flu virus or bad food, or over eating, the general medical opinion is that the diarrhea is caused by stress that hits the digestive system of the body.  The stress can actually cause the body to be intolerant of different foods or conditions.

My Dad had the problem of unpredictable diarrhea.  The doctors told him it was caused by his medication for diabetes - he was type 2.  The diarrhea seemed to hit harder and more frequently as he aged and began to worry about being out in public and getting caught in a "bad situation".  As a side note, Dad worried constantly about everything. He tried every known diarrhea remedy on the market, and nothing really worked.  His problem caused him so much grief and stopped him from traveling, from attending various family gatherings or social outings.  It helped him become a victim of circumstances.  It stayed with him until he died.

I was having a conversation about this problem with a stranger.  Imagine how intrigued I was when she told me that something call "Archway Coconut Macaroon" cookies stop diarrhea, in most cases.  I have never heard of the product so I had to look it up on the Internet.  The main ingredient is coconut.  It seems to be available at Walmart. 

When I was researching the coconut macaroon, I found some pretty interesting stuff.

1.  Coconut milk also seems to stop diarrhea in babies and youngsters.

2.  Some doctors recommend coconut macaroons as a remedy - two in the morning and two in the evening.  Another doctor recommended eating a large pinch of coconut in the morning and the evening, and to add fresh pineapple because it contains bromelain which has anti-inflammatory properties.

3.  Coconut oil, available at health foods stores, may also correct irritable bowel syndrome.

4.  As a substitute for macaroons when you are on the road, or have finished your supply, one can use Almond Mounds with similar success.

5.  People make sugar free coconut macaroons to be eaten by those who are diabetic.

6.  The coconut solution may not work for everyone.  For those who are not able to get relief with coconut, various sufferers of IBS or Crohn's have suggested probiotics from home made yogurt or from Activa (name brand) yogurt.

I wish someone had told our family about coconut macaroons years ago!  May this information be helpful to all that read it.

Judy@angelsandancestors.com

Ancestors Speak - Winter Solstice December 21 2008

"Winter Sanctuary"   © S. Roger Joyeux, used with permission.

A tradition we have every year is to participate in a Winter Solstice Celebration – whether we attend one or host one. This year, on Sunday, December 21, we will host a late afternoon Solstice event followed by a potluck supper.

On the longest night of the year, December 21st, we celebrate an ancient celebration, often called "Yule".  This is the Winter Solstice celebration that honours the long night, and welcomes the Mother Goddess to give birth to her child, the SUN. From this day, the daylight hours will grow longer, as Sun matures.  We celebrate Yule by lighting a big bonfire to welcome the light, and by burning Yule logs (pine logs) to honour the birth of something new.  At the same time, we set our intentions because Winter Solstice is a magical season . . . one that marks the journey from this year to the next, journeys of the spirit from one world to the next, and the magic of birth, death, and rebirth.  We ask to shed that which no longer serves us, set our vision of what we desire for the next year, and take the winter to dream it into being.  We also give wishes to loved ones, to ensure the blessing on our visions.  We take our vision of what we will become and offer this to the Goddess for a blessing. As well, we offer gratitude for what we have and gift good wishes to others.

In Sweden, The Goddess Lucina is known as the Sun Goddess. The people celebrate the return of the Sun Goddess on the day of the year when the night is the longest. By giving her this adoration, the next day, there will be an increase in daylight signalling something new! Lucina gives birth to the young Sun who will grow in strength to be able to nourish the Spring and the Summer so the world may flourish. Lucina asked the people to create joyfulness by decorating evergreens, the tree of life and death, which are sacred to her. As well, she asked them to put up holly, which is the symbol of rebirth (abundance and prosperity for the year). Mistletoe, also sacred to her, is the symbol of peace. The decorating of pine trees and the hanging of holly and mistletoe are traditions that originated with the Goddess Lucina.

That tradition was passed down to me and my siblings by my Grandmother. When I was little, my Grandmother, who was Swedish and Norwegian, always sent a big box of presents at Christmas time on the years they did not come to visit. In the box would be several branches of Holly and a sprig or two of Mistletoe, to wish our family prosperity and peacefulness for the upcoming year.

Note that the picture of holly comes from http://www.trainingreference.co.uk/ . We are grateful for their help.

We wish you all to have a branch of holly and a sprig of mistletoe!

Judy@angelsandancestors.com

Links to other discussions about Solstice and Equinox...

http://angelsandancestors.blogspot.com/2008/06/finding-site-for-ceremony-22-steps-to.html

http://angelsandancestors.blogspot.com/2008/06/summer-solstice-june-20-2008.html

Ancestors - Integrity

One of the Coca-Cola Company's headquarters buildings in Atlanta from Wikipedia...

 

 

The Internet is full of information, and one place to get a very interesting "story behind the story" look at events is a place called "Brasscheck TV"  at www.brasschecktv.com.   Brasscheck recently posted a video about how farmers in India are using Coke - the soft drink - to spray their fields for insects.  In fact, the bottled Coke seems to have insecticides in its chemical makeup.  Watch the short video at www.brasschecktv.com/page/495.html. 

What I find so thought provoking is that a corporation would sell this drink, loaded with chemicals, to the public, and seem to do so in good conscience.  In Munay-ki, two of the vows are:

   -  truthfulness (truthful means honest and not containing or telling any lies - from the Cambridge dictionary at  dictionary.cambridge.org)

   -  integrity (the quality of being honest and having strong moral (I like the word "ethical" better than the word moral) principles that you refuse to change - from the Cambridge dictionary at  dictionary.cambridge.org)

Given the stories that are told about corporate lack of integrity and individual lack of integrity, it seems that the vows are necessary to point apprentices back to the true path.  It seems that there are so many people and corporations lacking integrity, that one lacks good role models to see how integrity is carried out.

Integrity simply means, "Walk your talk!"

See other blogs that cover integrity.... Truth vs Facts;   Mysteries in Munay-Ki;  Spirit Animals - Peacock;  The Message From Pigeon

In munay,

Judy@angelsandancestors.com

Ancestors Speak - A Line In The Sand or Co-creation?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

This picture is from an email that I received about six months ago.  I do not know who the photographer is, however, that person did a great job!

What are the things in your life that are non-negotiable?  Who are those beliefs/values conflicting with?  Why do you feel so strongly about this issue? 

These are some of the questions that came up for me the other day when I was stopping to reflect over a situation that caused me great emotion.  For many of us, when we need to take a stand, we do it with every fibre of our being.  We are so wrapped up in our view that we fail to see that there are other options. 

When I was in a Leadership Training program back in 2000, one of the activities was to break down in to two teams. The Facilitator then drew a line in the sand on the volleyball court, and handed us a rope.  The idea was that one team had to drag the other team over the line to prove superiority.  Each day, in our activities, most of us still draw lines, standing on one side of the line and saying that our idea is the best or our belief is the best, or whatever. 

The idea of co-creation is that there is not one side that is bigger or stronger or best.  Co-creation is about doing what is best for all in the circumstances.  Generally, when clever people think through a problem, the resulting solution is the synthesis of all the ideas and shows that something greater can occur when people work in harmony.

Did I mention that a soul-ution tends to bring people together, and create a community that is excited about tackling new challenges?  When we are engaged in creating the best and most loving solution, we are happy; our soul is happy; and the Universe is happy. 

Next time you need to draw a line in the sand, make it a heart!

Judy@angelsandancestors.com

Stars And Planets - The Moon At Its Closest To Earth

The amazing lunar spectacle over the picturesque town of Winterberg in Germany

 

 

 

On December 12th, the cloud cover around Calgary prevented  me from seeing the full moon as clearly as I wanted to.  The power of the moon, at its closest to the Earth was quite intense whether one could see it or not.

I was lucky enough to find this article about the full moon and what some of the pictures were like from around the world.  Check out the article below and see some spectacular shots of the moon.

Judy@angelsandancestors.com

Over the moon: The lunar spectacle that was bigger and brighter than ever (even though most of us missed it)  By Daily Mail Reporter  Last updated at 10:31 AM on 13th December 2008   

Excerpt from article ....."If the shortening days were getting you down, last night's amazing full moon was sure to raise the spirits. It appeared 14 per cent bigger than usual and a stunning 30 per cent brighter thanks to a rare, natural coincidence..."

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Source for this image is "The Times" and "NASA"

Buddha Speaks - You Are Just A Visitor Here

    "Lady Traveler" from Microsoft Clip Art....

 

                                                           I have been experiencing many different lessons of life over the past twenty years.  Early in this adventure, after each experience, I usually would say, "Wow!  That was intense! I am glad that I am through that!"  As I grew older and wiser, I realized that the lessons were the journey. And, as I traveled around the world, I realized that the lessons of life were very much paralleled by the challenges one faces traveling in different countries where we cannot communicate in a common language and thus revert to signing and engaging in a genuine exchange.  Words do limit how another interprets what one says.

I had pretty much forgotten about my earlier discoveries as I am busy learning new things all the time.  Then, the other day, I found this passage when I was working through some Buddhist teachings.  I loved the phrasing!  It took me back to the earlier times when I was a visitor in so many countries and cities. 

May you enjoy this teaching as I did!

Judy@angelsandancestors.com

                                      Dhammavadaka

Remember always that you are just a visitor here, a traveler passing through. Your stay is but short and the moment of your departure unknown.

None can live without toil and a craft that provides your needs is a blessing indeed. But if you toil without rest, fatigue and weariness will overtake you, and you will denied the joy that comes from labour's end.

Speak quietly and kindly and be not forward with either opinions or advice. If you talk much, this will make you deaf to what others say, and you should know that there are few so wise that they cannot learn from others.

Be near when help is needed, but far when praise and thanks are being offered.

Take small account of might, wealth and fame, for they soon pass and are forgotten. Instead, nurture love within you and and strive to be a friend to all. Truly, compassion is a balm for many wounds.

Treasure silence when you find it, and while being mindful of your duties, set time aside, to be alone with yourself.
Cast off pretense and self-deception and see yourself as you really are.

Despite all appearances, no one is really evil. They are led astray by ignorance. If you ponder this truth always you will offer more light, rather then blame and condemnation.
You, no less than all beings have Buddha Nature within. Your essential Mind is pure. Therefore, when defilements cause you to stumble and fall, let not remorse nor dark foreboding cast you down. Be of good cheer and with this understanding, summon strength and walk on.

Faith is like a lamp and wisdom makes the flame burn bright. Carry this lamp always and in good time the darkness will yield and you will abide in the Light.

Note - I believe this was written by  Shravasti Dhammika ... I thank you for this writing.

Ancestors - Listerine Cure All..

Modern day bottles of Listerine from the picture on Wikipedia...

A saying that our Ancestors had was "the most common things do the greatest good."  One of those common things is LISTERINE.

I grew up with Listerine as the number one cure for colds, sore throats, bad breath, and an alternate to teeth brushing when we were all in a hurry!  I was amazed today, to find that there are many uses for Listerine - the original brand - and that it may be used for either humans or animals.  The original brand Listerine contains several oils -thymol, eucalyptol, menthol, methyl salicylate.  Eucalyptus and Menthol are believed to be anti-fungal oils.   Here are some of the remedies made with Listerine.

1.  Dogs and horses get itchy spots.  One enterprising veterinarian recommended to his client that he mix baby oil and Listerine and rub it on the itchy spots on the horses and the Doberman dogs. The client says that it works! (1 part Listerine to 4 parts baby oil and do experiment for your particular animal).  1/3 of Listerine and 1/3 of baby oil may be combined with  1/3 of water and put in a spray bottle to spray on the animals.

2.  People get fungus under their toenails.  Modern medicine has created anti fungal cures.  However, many people find that the cures do not work.  One treatment that works for many is to soak the toe nail(s) for 15 minutes at night in Listerine, before going to bed.  Happy cured individuals say that it takes about three or four nights and the fungus is gone.  The preventative treatment is to continue soaking the toes every other week in Listerine to prevent reoccurrence of the fungus.

3.  Do you have sensitive skin and get blemishes or rashes?  Listerine dabbed on to the abrasion, shaving cut, or rash will usually clear the spot up by morning.

4.  Humans - do you suffer from dandruff?  Rub Listerine into your scalp when it gets itchy and wash out when you wash your hair.  Apply nightly before bed.  If you are active and wash your hair daily, then rub some Listerine into your hair before you wash, and you should have your dandruff under control!

5.  Scum on your shower door or walls?  Try Listerine to remove the worst of the scum. Apply straight or dilute slightly with water. 

For those of you who enjoy the history behind something, see http://www3.telus.net/st_simons/cr9801.htm which is a short history of Dr. Lister.

May you have great success in using Listerine!  Tell me your great healing story using Listerine.

judy@angelsandancestors.com  

For more home remedies, see:

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

Juniper Medicine

Spirit Animal - Cardinal

Picture of "Cardinal" from Wikipedia....

 

As I was writing Christmas cards, I noticed how many of the cards have a picture of the "Cardinal" on them.  I looked at the cards I had accumulated and realized that I had not really bought a box of cards on birds.  Yet, several cards in a row were showing me Cardinal.  Therefore, there must be a message for me.

First, the brilliant red Cardinal is usually found in through Ontario, Quebec, and some of the Maritimes, and then down into Maine and the eastern States.  In western Canada, the Cedar Waxwing is more orangey-red than red in colour.  When the early explorers and settlers saw this bird, the crest reminded the people of the red robes of Catholic Cardinals, hence the name.  Cardinal, then, does have significance for people on either a religious or spiritual journey - and often the two are exclusive of each other. 

My task is to figure out what Cardinal was trying to say to me.  The colours of Cardinal - black and red - are about the base chakra, and a reminder to be more in touch with Mother Earth and to stay grounded.  The base chakra is about survival - having food and shelter and feeling secure from harm - the very issues that our Ancestors faced when they ventured out from their cave or their village.  Cardinal is very much about survival and she knows which seeds to eat, summer or winter, that will benefit her.  At this time of year when over indulgence may become a habit, Cardinal reminds us to eat healthily and to avoid harmful foods.  I paid close attention to this information about food and eating because we have many social eating situations over the next several weeks.

Cardinal has a very high, loud whistle that echoes through the air.  Cardinal may be singing to its mate - male and female sound alike.  The message is to integrate our masculine and feminine traits and then use the combined skills of intuition and logic to achieve a very large goal.  Only by moving forward with our being totally integrated will we achieve the steps on our life mission.  This message is especially true for me right now as I am working on new workshop materials and radio show materials.  I see the message that my communication must also be loud and clear!

As the colour of Cardinal is red, one often associates attributes of life with the colour.  So, Cardinal's message in this area is to live with assertiveness, courage, and to be pioneering in the areas of work/hobby that one does.  Cardinal may also imply that one is insecure, or fearful, or even self pitying or a victim, and urges the individual to be more like Cardinal - full of fun and life.

Again the message of courage and pioneering struck a chord with me as I am working on several things that go beyond the information that I have learned, and synthesizes ideas into something more - in fact, being a pioneer.  That message of pioneering felt good and right, and was affirming the steps that I am taking.  I am grateful for the message.

judy@angelsandancestors.com    See our Wise Words page at www.angelsandancestors.com.

Angels And Ancestors Internet Radio Show

Angel's Logo designed by Roger Joyeux

We, at Angels And Ancestors, are pleased to announce that we will have an Internet radio show starting in January - the 13th - to be exact at 12:00pm Noon Pacific Time.  Show details are below.

We would like feedback from you, on topics you would like to hear addressed in the show.  Would you like to hear more about items in this blog, or on other topics?

Some of our ideas are:

Show 1 – How To Benefit From Psychic Abilities Assessment

Join host Judith Hirst-Joyeux as she describes the process of Psychic Abilities Assessment  and learn the benefits of the assessment process and the compilation report.  You will hear an apprentice take part of the assessment to understand the process.

Show 2 – Ancestors and Divination; Tarot Spread of Aces

Discover why our Ancestors used divination and what it means to us, today and learn the Spread of Aces to “hear” the Divine give you messages.  You will experience several example readings to understand the perfection of the communication.

Show 3 – Experiencing Energy the Shamanic Way

This is especially for those who do not feel energy, this show facilitates experiential exercises to “feel” energy.  We will learn several ways to create sacred space using Angels.  We will also learn how to create sacred space bringing in the Four Directions in the way of the Inca and then experience a balancing meditation to harmonize the energy templates of your body.

Do these topics resonate for you?  Let me know.

Send your ideas to Judy@angelsandancestors.com 

What: Angels And Ancestors Internet Radio Show

This is a time of searching for “something” for most people. Many people feel dis-satisfied with their family and friends, with their jobs, and with their health. Many searches lead to Angels And Ancestors where Host Judith Hirst-Joyeux and her husband, Roger Joyeux teach people the tools to “shift” their blockages and set them on a path of learning about “self” and discovering their part in co-creation. Join Judith every Tuesday at 12:00pm Pacific time on “Angels And Ancestors” as she shares the tools that help you change and feel joy! Discover that you can do the work yourself, on yourself. Learn interactive mediations, and processes to clear the junky stuff from your body and mind, and find the Spirit within you. Hear Judith work through an actual process with a guest to create examples for you to follow. Discover how to work with the light in crystals. Throughout the show, our Angel Guides and our Ancestors pop in to share wisdom, and to remind us to have fun with what we do!

When: Tuesday, January 13, 2009 1:00 PM to Tuesday, April 7, 2009 2:00 PM  Mountain Time.

Where: 7th Wave Network by Modavox and Voice America on the Internet

http://www.modavox.com/7thwavenetwork/

Check out Modavox's 7thWave Network to hear some great shows!

Tarot Discussion - "Guilt" from Osho Zen Tarot, Card 8

This picture is of the "Guilt" card from the Osho Zen Tarot Deck

 

When I asked what it is I needed to know today, for December 12, 2008, I was actually surprised to pull the Guilt card.  In my mind, I have let go of guilt.  I believe that I live a joyful life.  I have carried much guilt in the past - over things like temper, parent care, not doing enough for step children, not doing enough for friends, etc.  You probably know the list - we all have/had a guilt checklist. 

So why am I pulling this card?  I kept reading the information on the card over and over and looking at the person's face and wondering why this card came up.  Then I realized what was going on.  I was being reminded of the lesson that everyone needs to be reminded of this season - that we need to LET GO OF GUILT!

What I was hearing was that I needed to tell everyone that this time - December 12th to December 25th is such a time of incredible light - that we must release all those feelings of guilt and blame to open up our hearts to the light and love that the Angels and Ascended Masters will be pouring in.

I love what Osho says and I hope that everyone heeds the message.... "You are absolutely okay as you are, and it is absolutely natural to go astray from time to time. Just learn from it, move on, and use the lesson not to make the same mistake again." 

Be filled with light!

Judy@angelsandancestors.com

See also:   Spirit Animal - Pelican

Ancestors Speak - A Parable of Two Wolves

Karma Files - "The Law of the Garbage Truck"

Garbage Truck runs over car! ---Photo from www.car-accidents.com

 

 

 

One of my favorite sayings is "How others treat you is their karma; how you react is yours!"  by Dr. Wayne Dyer.  I have been noticing that during my Christmas shopping, some people are just plain mean to those around them - other customers, clerks, and even their own families.  I wonder what it is in them that causes so much anger.  And, like a bad apple, the anger they spew out, seems to spread if others let it.

Here is a great story that my friend Roxanne sent me about how one can deal with toxic behaviour that is directed at us. 

Enjoy,

Judy@angelsandancestors.com

The Law of the Garbage Truck

One day I hopped in a taxi and we took off for the airport. We were driving in the right lane when suddenly a black car jumped out of a parking space right in front of us. My taxi driver slammed on his brakes, skidded, and missed the other car by just inches! The driver of the other car whipped his head around and started yelling at us. My taxi driver just smiled and waved at the guy and I mean he was really friendly. So I asked, 'Why did you just do that? This guy almost ruined your car and sent us to the hospital!' This is when my taxi driver taught me what I now call 'The Law of the Garbage Truck.'

He explained that many people are like garbage trucks. They run around full of garbage, full of frustration, full of anger, and full of disappointment. As their garbage piles up, they need a place to dump it and sometimes they'll dump it on you. Don't take it personally. Just smile, wave, wish them well, and move on. Don't take their garbage and spread it to other people at work, at home, or on the streets.  The bottom line is that successful people do not let garbage trucks take over their day. Life's too short to wake up in the morning with regrets so 'Love the people who treat you right. Pray for the ones who don't.'

Life is ten percent what you make it and ninety percent how you take it.
~Author Unknown~

Buddha Speaks - A Story of Hell

Picture of "Hell" from www.encyclopedia.com

 

 

 

I have been studying and learning the ways of Buddhism now for several years.  I find that Buddhism is a way of life, much like Shamanism is a way of life.  I enjoy the similarities and find the differences good questions for pondering. 

In the learning that I was doing, I had a chance to read the following story.  It was quite thought provoking for me.  May you find this a worthy read!

Judy@angelsandancestors.com

Hell
(Told by Master Thich Nhat Hanh)

The Buddha, in one of his former lives, was in Hell. Before he became a Buddha he had suffered a lot in many lives. He made a lot of mistakes, like all of us. He made himself suffer, and he made people around him suffer. Sometimes he made very big mistakes, and that is why in one of his previous lives he was in Hell. There is a collection of stories about the lives of the Buddha, and there are many hundreds of stories like that. These stories are collected under the title Jataka Tales. Among these hundreds of stories, I remember one very vividly. I was seven years old, very young, and I read that story about the Buddha, and I was very shocked. But I did not fully understand that story.

The Buddha was in Hell because he had done something wrong, extremely wrong, that caused a lot of suffering to himself and to others. That is why he found himself in Hell. In that life of his, he hit the bottom of suffering, because that Hell was the worst of all Hells. With him there was another man, and together they had to work very hard, under the direction of a soldier who was in charge of Hell. It was dark, it was cold, and at the same time it was very hot. The guard did not seem to have a heart. It did not seem that he knew anything about suffering. He did not know anything about the feelings of other people, so he just beat up the two men in Hell. He was in charge of the two men, and his task was to make them suffer as much as possible.

I think that guard also suffered a lot. It looked like he didn't have any compassion within him. It looked like he didn't have any love in his heart. It looked like he did not have a heart. He behaved like a robber. When looking at him, when listening to him, it did not seem that one could contact a human being, because he was so brutal. He was not sensitive to people's suffering and pain. That is why he was beating the two men in Hell, and making them suffer a lot. And the Buddha was one of these two men in one of his previous lives.

The guard had an instrument with three iron points, and every time he wanted the two men to go ahead, he used this to push them on the back, and of course blood came out of their backs. He did not allow them to relax; he was always pushing and pushing and pushing. He himself also looked like he was being pushed by something behind him. Have you ever felt that kind of pushing behind your back? Even if there was no one behind you, you have felt that you were being pushed and pushed to do things you don't like to do, and to say the things you don't like to say, and in doing that you created a lot of suffering for yourself and the people around you. Maybe there is something behind us that is pushing and pushing. Sometimes we say horrible things, and do horrible things, that we did not want to say or do, yet we were pushed by something from behind. So we said it, and we did it, even if we didn't want to do it. That was what happened to the guard in Hell: he tried to push, because he was being pushed. He caused a lot of damage to the two men. The two men were very cold, very hungry, and he was always pushing and beating them and causing them a lot of problems.

One afternoon, the man who was the Buddha in a former life saw the guard treating his companion so brutally that something in him rose up. He wanted to protest. He knew that if he intervened, if he said anything, if he tried to prevent the guard beating the other person, that he would be beaten himself. But that something was pushing up in him, so that he wanted to intervene, and he wanted to say: "Don't beat him so much. Why don't you allow him to relax? Why do you have to stab him and to beat him and to push him so much?" Deep within the Buddha was a pressure coming up, and he wanted to intervene, even knowing perfectly well that if he did, he would be beaten by the guard. That impulse was very strong in him, and he could not stand it anymore. He turned around, and he faced the guard without any heart, and said, "Why don't you leave him alone for a moment? Why do you keep beating him and pushing him like that? Don't you have a heart?"

That was what he said, this man who was to be the Buddha. When the guard saw him protesting like that, and heard him, he was very angry, and he used his fork, and he planted it right in the chest of the Buddha. As a result, the Buddha died right away, and he was reborn the very same minute into the body of a human being. He escaped Hell, and became a human being living on earth, just because compassion was born in him, strong enough for him to have the courage to intervene to help his fellow man in Hell.

When I read this story, I was astonished, and I came to the conclusion that even in Hell there was compassion. That was a very relieving truth: even in Hell there is compassion. Can you imagine? And wherever compassion is, it's not too bad.

Do you know something? The other fellow saw the Buddha die. He was angry, and for the first time he was touched by compassion: the other person must have had some love, some compassion to have the courage to intervene for his sake.

That gave rise to some compassion in him also.That is why he looked at the guard, and he said, "My friend was right, you don't have a heart. You can only create suffering for yourself and for other people. I don't think that you are a happy person. You have killed him." And after he said that, the guard was also very angry at him, and he used his fork, and planted the fork in the stomach of the second man, who also died right away, and was reborn as a human being on earth.

Both of them escaped Hell, and had a chance to begin anew on earth, as full human beings.

What happened to the guard, the one who had no heart? He felt very lonely, because in that Hell there were only three people and now the other two were dead. He began to see that these two were not very kind, or very nice, but to have people living with us is a wonderful thing. Now the two other people were dead, and he was alone, utterly alone there.

He could not bear that kind of loneliness, and Hell became very difficult for him. Out of that suffering he learned something: he learned that you cannot live alone. Man is not our enemy. You cannot hate man, you cannot kill man, you cannot reduce man to nothingness, because if you kill man, with whom will you live? He made a vow that if he had to take care of other people in Hell, he would learn how to deal with them in a nicer way, and a transformation took place in his heart. In fact, he did have a heart. To believe that he did not have a heart is wrong -- everyone has a heart. We need something or someone to touch that heart, to transform it into a human heart. So this time the feeling of loneliness, the desire to be with other humans, was born in him. That is why he decided that if he had to guard other people in Hell, he would know how to deal with them with more compassion. At that time, the door of Hell opened, and a Bodhisattva appeared, with all the radiance of a Bodhisattva. The Bodhisattva said, " Goodness has been born in you, so you don't have to endure Hell very long. You will die quickly and be reborn as a human very soon."   from http://www.ic.sunysb.edu/Clubs/buddhism/story/

Karma Files - Dealing with Asthma (EFT)

  Image from Microsoft Clip Art...

 

Recently, I have had some clients and met some people who complain about "asthma".  While there does not seem to be any one cause or any one cure that works, a process called EFT or Emotional Freedom Technique seems to help relieve the symptoms.   EFT was developed by Gary Craig and you can read all about this process and download some free training from http://www.emofree.com/.  There are some remarkable stories and helpful "how to do's" on this site.  I use EFT on myself to quickly heal injuries such as bad falls on the ice when I walk my dogs. 

I would like to share some stories about Asthma that Michael Valenti, M.D. put on the EFT site.  You can see his whole article at http://www.emofree.com/Asthma-relief/asthma-depression-vomiting-multiple-sclerosis.htm.  I have a big THANK YOU for Dr. Valenti for sharing this information.

"Here are a few experiences with asthma sufferers which were very successful.  One woman saw me with an asthma attack about six months ago.  She was severely wheezing and short of breath.  She reported she had asthma since she was small.  I asked, “What triggers the asthma?”  “Anything,” she said, “when I am cold, when I eat ice cream, when I am stressed, or when I worry.”  “When did it start?”  “I don’t know.  I always had it,” she replied.

“So what was the first time you remember when it was really bad?”  “Well,” she said, “when I was in school one day and they were all laughing about me.”  So we tapped on the set up: Even though they were all laughing about me in school and I got asthma…” with the reminder, laughing about me and asthma.  It took four rounds, and on a scale of 0 to 10, her intensity level went from 8 to 6 to 2 to 1 - and the asthma was gone.  I asked her to come back if she had anymore wheezing at all.  As far as I know she had no more asthma attacks.

A young man with asthma couldn’t remember any embarrassing situation with his asthma, but reported that it usually followed a cold and cough.  We tapped on Even though I have asthma with every cold…  The asthma stopped within three rounds.  No follow up.

Another young man with asthma couldn’t come up with any clues or triggers.  Since I believe that all psychosomatic problems and especially asthma must be related to a fear, we tapped on, Even though I have this fear of asthma…  After one round the client was breathing freer and after three rounds there was no wheezing at all.  I gave him copies of EFT on a page and a diagram of the tapping points and advised him to tap any time he had any wheezing.  He never came back for more help."

Send your comments to judy@angelsandancestors.com

Spirit Animal - Crow

Picture of
"Crow In Flight" from Wikipedia

 

 

 

 

We are at the time of year when all of the crows should have flown south - from Alberta - for the winter.  So, I was surprised to see one lonely crow in the park woods on my walk the other morning.  I know it was a crow because of the distinctive "caw" noise.  Thinking about the scene, I then began to wonder if I had actually seen the crow or whether it was a Spirit Crow that was there as the woods were eerily quiet.

Crow makes a wide range of noises, and it is possible to learn their language in our rather primitive human way.  Sometimes the sounds are about danger, others about gossip and where the food is, or where there are other animals that may present some fun! The shiny blackness of Crow's feathers remind us that absolute blackness is the chaos that we - the cosmos - was born out of. And, Crow represents the magic that is present during the day. (Appropriate for me in the woods.)

What messages does Crow bring?  Messages that really need to be reflected upon.  Here are some of them.

a)   Crow likes to be very high up to observe and watch for danger.  If you see Crow, and she is cawing at you, perhaps you need to be warned of danger ahead.

b)  Crow likes to gather with other crows.  Some liken this to a Council.  Perhaps it is time to turn to your Council of Twelve for guidance.

c)  Various legends of the Gods and Goddesses tell of their use of Crows as spies because Crow has an inherent knowledge of truth.  If Crow appears, it may be that she is saying that you need to look beyond the apparent for the actual Truth.  In Munay-Ki we say that you need to look for the story behind the story. 

d) Crow therefore is also about integrity.  Is there something that is challenging your truth and integrity?  Do you need to be diligent or discerning in your association with others?

As I look at my Crow experience, I realize that my  message came from Great Spirit, and that Crow was there to remind me that there is much beyond what we know, and that I need to turn more to guidance from Great Spirit, Ancestors, and my Council of Twelve.   I will be spending more time in mediation!

judy@angelsandancestors.com or www.angelsandancestors.com

Also see:

The Crow in The Tree

Spirit Animals – Deer

Ancestors Speak - You Receive What You Give!

           Smiling woman image from Microsoft Clip Art

 

 

 

 

 

I was at the grocery store the other day, and I was surprised at how grim people are looking.  It was a beautiful day, the store was not crowded as it was quite early, and I was feeling quite happy.  I am a happy person, and that sometimes is a problem for people who think that I do not take life seriously.  My answer to that view is - for too long I did take life too seriously.  The nicest thing people can say to me is that they like how I make them laugh.  What nicer compliment could there be? 

As I was pondering the unhappy faces, I just started smiling at everyone. Some people simply glanced away.  After several aisles of smiling, I started to see people that I'd seen several aisles ago.  Now, they were smiling at me first, and sometimes shaking their heads.  No matter.  Their mood had lifted.

Later that day, as I was going through some Buddhist lessons, I found this lovely poem that summed up why smiling is important.  Enjoy!

   SMILE!

She smiled at a sorrowful stranger.
The smile seemed to make him feel better.
He remembered past kindnesses of a friend
And wrote him a thank you letter.
The friend was so pleased with the thank you
That he left a large tip after lunch.
The waitress, surprised by the size of the tip,
Bet the whole thing on a hunch.
The next day she picked up her winnings,
And gave part to a man on the street.
The man on the street was grateful;
For two days he'd had nothing to eat.
After he finished his dinner,
He left for his small dingy room.
He didn't know at that moment that he might be facing his doom.
On the way he picked up a shivering puppy.
And took him home to get warm.
The puppy was very grateful
To be in out of the storm.
That night the house caught on fire.
The puppy barked the alarm.
He barked till he woke the whole household
And saved everybody from harm.
One of the boys that he rescued
Grew up to be President.
All this because of a simple smile
That hadn't cost a cent.

(Poet not noted.  This poem is from  http://buddhism.kalachakranet.org/)

What is your experience with people responding to your smile? judy@angelsandancestors.com

Also see:

Buddha Speaks - Daily Necessities

Ancestors Speak - Tree of Life

The CHA WAKAN card - Tree of Life, #32, from The Lakota Sweat Lodge Cards by Chief Archie Fire Lame Deer and Helene Sarkis

In many traditions, the TREE OF LIFE is recognized - for all people see the tree as having roots buried deep in Mother Earth, and branches reaching up to Great Spirit, and Father Sky. 

The Lakota say that the humans are like leaves - when we become a certain age, or ripeness, we leave this plane and go into the Spirit World.   We die, our bodies go to the Earth, like the leaves from the tree.

The guidance on this card is one that is timely, as we move towards Christmas, a time that is very stressful for many people who either visit family or have family stay with them.

"Open your heart to all your brothers and your sisters and to all of creation, relinquishing your judgements and expectations (of yourself and others).  Allow all our relations to be exactly who they are; accept all that you are."

If you feel the need to judge or criticize someone tomorrow, stop and ask yourself  - "Why does this bother me so much?"  For, often what bothers us in others is what we can not deal with in ourselves.  If we can identify why it bothers us, we are on the path to releasing that issue, like the tree releases the leaves.  When we release something that has bothered us for ages, we feel a deep stillness and peace.  The Shaman says that one must continually work on themselves-- if you believe that you have dealt with an issue and yet you remember it, then the issue is not solved.  Work towards Oneness and Peace!

Be compassionate...

Send me your comments judy@angelsandancestors.com

Also see:

Karma Yoga Thoughts - Namasté

Karma Files - Am I Worthless?

Ancestors Speak - Maka, Mother Earth Meditation

Ancestors Speak - A Parable of Two Wolves

Ancestors Speak - Using Energy Through Conscious Living....

Hands holding the sun, from an email.

I have been reading the book, "Beyond 2012" by James Endredy, and I am struck by some of the common sense phrases and statements that he uses.  One such phrasing comes under the heading of  "Conscious Living" or being mindful of how you interact with the Earth and the beings on the Earth. If you have the book or purchase the book, these lines come from page 152.......

1.  I acknowledge that I am a human being, part of the human community, and I respect the human rights and equality of all people on Earth.

2.  I acknowledge that I am a child of the Earth, part of the natural community, and I am responsible for nurturing and protecting the health and welfare of my Mother Earth.

3.  I acknowledge that I am a spiritual being, part of the eternal spirit of creation, one and indivisible.

4.  I acknowledge that I am a healer, with the strength and the ability to help heal the many illnesses and crises that exist on Earth.

5.  I acknowledge that I am an activist, dedicated to making a positive influence in the world.

These words are an echo of the knowledge that one gathers will working through the feeding and germinating of the Rites of Munay-Ki.  Acknowledging the Oneness with all, the spiritual being, and the healer are all parts of recognizing that each of us is a Creator.  And that somehow, perhaps through politics or religion, we have forgotten how to be connected with others and to honour their right to BE... as the first line says "I am a ... being". 

May you find the way to live mindfully, and in harmony with Nature.

If you have a comment, send it to me at judy@angelsandancestors.com

See also:

Earth Keepers  angelsandancestors.blogspot.com/2008/12/earth-keepers-minding-earth.html

Activating the Pineal Gland -   http://angelsandancestors.blogspot.com/2008/09/munay-ki-activating-pineal-gland.html

Munay-Ki Rite   2      http://angelsandancestors.blogspot.com/2008/08/munay-ki-rite-2-bands-of-power.html

Spirit Animal - Moose

Picture of Moose close to Carstairs, taken by Hillary Schneider, Oct 2008, Used with permission.

Moose are one of the more ancient four legged ones. In Alberta, we see them in the foothills, in wooded areas, and sometimes even along the rivers in the city. Moose was named from the Algonquin word “Moz” which roughly means stick or twig eater. Moose are totally herbivores and may eat up to 112 pounds of food per day in the summertime as the winter time is almost a time of fasting for them. Their great size – averaging six and a half feet at the shoulder, and one thousand pounds – makes sustenance a full time occupation. Their colouring allows them to blend into the bush, grass and water that are their habitat. Moose runs at about twenty-eight miles per hour, and swims quite rapidly as well. Even with its huge antlers which may weigh seventy-five pounds, the bull moose will move silently through the forest, and will appear invisible as well. When we do see Moose, it is so powerful a presence, one cannot help but feel a sense of the majestic force of Nature.

Our Ancestors have many legends surrounding Moose. Some are that those born with Moose’s shape – long legs and arms – will have Moose’s ability to connect with the higher realms. Moose’s gifts – presence and invisibility are also the message to those Moose appears to. Moose says to go and do what ever your journey is without drawing attention to yourself. If Moose has antlers, the message is to open up the crown chakra and connect to the universal consciousness and connect with the Heavens and Mother Earth and understand that balance is required. Moose reminds you that you do have great wisdom and that the wisdom is to be shared discretely; and that one should not be troubled by the garbled advice from those around them.

Moose’s habitat in summer is water. Here, Moose pulls up the tenderest shoots of marine plants, and feasts on the water lily, a brilliant yellow flower. This is a reminder that one must constantly plunge the depths of emotion to find the true moments of love and swallow them whole to incorporate them into one’s being, for love is the one true thing. All other emotion must be examined, and blessed and released to prevent this density from holding one back from growing into their full power.

Note - this article on Moose first appeared in the Angels And Ancestors' December 2008 newsletter (Tidings of Interest) available at www.angelsandancestors.com home page.

Ancestors Speak - Kuan Yin

Image from ww.exoticindiaart.com

As we move towards Christmas, I would like to talk about Kuan Yin, Goddess, and Ascended Master and Bodhisattva.

Kuan Yin is known as the Mother of Compassion.  She provides comfort to all and a peacefulness that allows one to comfortably practice meditation. 

Our Ancestors tell the tales of Kuan Yin being offered eternal life and bliss in the higher realms.  However, she found that with all the suffering still on the Earth, that she must turn back to Earth to help humans reach enlightenment.  She is, therefore, often called "One Who Sees And Hears The Cry From The Human World". 

Many women worship Kuan Yin because she is compassionate and because she believes in truth and justice, and she abhors inequality.  Kuan Yin protects the senile and unfortunate, comforts the troubled and the sick, and she works with women to help them in conception and childbirth, and in raising their families.  Sea going men, farmers, and travellers also ask for her protection - again because she is just.

When you are in need of peace, call on Kuan Yin to be there with you.  When you are feeling frightened, call on her.  When you need a blessing in your life, she will walk with you and offer the blessing.

Earth Keepers - Minding The Earth

Picture from the video MELODIAS DE ANGELES on You Tube

I saw this picture, and it made me think of the Earth Keeper Rites in Munay-Ki. 

 

Earth Keepers are about:

-unconditional love

-holding the Earth in your heart

-seeing the galaxy as an integral part of the Earth

-holding each action that happens on the Earth in love and being with it without fear or anger.

-compassion.

-bigger than either masculine or feminine - it is about the combination, or neutrality of the opposite energies

-a place of PEACE

My wish for December is that all humans find a place to be without fear and anger, and that all find enough water and food to sustain them.  For if if the people are satisfied, they will then turn to looking after the Earth, for they see that to keep themselves fed and watered, the Earth Mother must be cared for.

Spirit Animal - Caribou

These are the headlines that attracted my attention....

Another caribou herd in steep decline: study   Last Updated: Monday, December 1, 2008 | 9:12 AM MT   The Canadian Press

Caribou cross a river in this undated handout photo. Six of the eight western Arctic caribou herds appear to be in serious, long-term decline. (Canadian Press)   

Caribou facing extinction as recovery efforts stall, biologist says   Last Updated  : Wednesday, May 21, 2008 | 1:26 PM ET  CBC

This is the third time in several days that CARIBOU have popped up on the radar of "what I need to pay attention to".  For me, this "attention" is very much like a little TV with knobs and details streaming across it.  When something is important, the screen flashes and attracts my attention - hence the name. 

Going back to Caribou,  I wondered what the importance of Caribou was to me at the moment.  I always thought of Caribou as another "Deer".  If that was the case, then I should simply be seeing Deer.  So, what is the significance of Caribou and these articles?

Caribou are slowly becoming extinct.  They represented a way of life for the Inuit for hundreds of years.  The stats are showing huge drops in the number of Caribou, and yet, there is nothing about finding many skeletons of Caribou in one area, showing that a mass  hunting of the animal took place or that some disease wiped them out. 

What immediately came to mind is "the old ways are not required anymore - the animals do not have to sacrifice themselves".  That thought made me think of the Monarch Butterfly disappearing.  Perhaps the Caribou is now attuning to the next realm or realms and is slowly leaving the planet through an open portal.

Caribou is also about getting ready for new adventures.  Every year, Caribou migrates to new pastures, and this happens twice per year.  So, Caribou showing up may be a signal for long and wonderful journeys that will completely transform life.  Caribou is also about courage - the journeys take a month or so, and the Caribou must swim very cold rivers and seas.  At times, all one can see are the head and antlers.  The message - keep your head above water (emotions and challenges) and simply keep going.  Caribou never turns back.

If Caribou is showing up in your life, take a look at what you need to let go of, and prepare for the transformational journey!

(See the Articles at the Wise Words page at www.angelsandancestors.com)

Ancestors Speak - Remember December!

Image is from www.hellasmultimedia.com  

 

 

 

 

This is the first day of December - a signal to us that Christmas is twenty-four days away!  Do you know the following things about December?

1.  The Moon celebration is called "The Moon of Long Nights".

2.  During this time, the water is believed to be revitalized.

3.  The event of Winter Solstice, held on either December 21st or 22nd depending on the length of the year. This honours the longest night and the return of the Sun Goddess, Lucina.

4.  Our Ancestors thought that December was a time to  endure, for the elderly to die, and for the world, and their life, to be reborn.

5.  During this cold time of December, our Ancestors spent time on introspection and renewal - weaving new clothes, creating new tools, honouring the Gods and Goddesses.

6.  It is common for people to use this time as time of purification.  People have saunas and roll in the snow. Others participate in sweat lodges.  Some simply steam.  The hot and the cold are the balance to purify our bodies.

7.  The trees that we honour at this time are the family of evergreens - pine trees will be decorated for Christmas

8. The colour traditionally associated with Christmas was dark red.