Spirit Animal – Sea Gull

Picture of Sea Gull from Wikipedia….

 

 

 

Sea gulls live in seaports and around big water.  There are many gulls in Calgary as they follow the river system.

What do we know about gulls?  Well, many of us are fans of the book “Jonathan Livingston Seagull” because it was about following your heart and achieving as much as you could achieve.  It was inspirational and a heart warming story at the same time.  Yet, Sea Gull is often chased away and regarded as a nuisance bird.  Why is that?

Well, Sea Gull eats rubbish, pulls apart garbage bags if they smell good, eats dead fish as well as live ones, eats dead meat that washes onto shore or is road kill, eats vegetation, and makes messy nests out of whatever garbage it can find.  Sea Gull is noisy – she talks all the time to all those in the flock around her. There is a very loose social structure in the flock, and yet it is honoured.

So, if Sea Gull shows up in your life, what message is she bringing you?  It may be several messages or one message that will resonate with you.  Sea Gull shows up because:

1. She finds garbage around your house/yard and she is telling you to start recycling, reusing, and rethinking what you are eating and buying and throwing away.
2. She says you are eating out too much or eating too many packaged foods.  She eats what is immediately around her – the original 100 mile diet.  Are you eating healthily?  Sea Gull does – even if we consider it garbage.
3. Sea Gull flies around and soars and wheels and has fun.  She asks you to lighten up and go out and try new things – yell a little.  Making noise is good for your primal self.
4. Are you too quiet?  Do you need to find some friends?  Sea Gull has a lot of friends and is quite comfortable expressing herself.  Perhaps you need to take lessons about communicating and about relationship building from Sea Gull.
5. Sea Gull treats her flock members with fairness and respect. Situations like first come, first served are common and the others wait.  Are you too pushy?  Do you respect others, or do you consider yourself above the common Gull?

Enjoy the teachings of Sea Gull.  She does not usually show up often.

Judy@angelsandancestors.com   Do you have a good sea gull story?  I would love to hear it!

Radio Show – Crystals With A Purpose

Tuesday, March 03, 2009 at 12pm Pacific

Picture is of Mexico’s Cave of Crystals – from email.

 

 

 

Crystals have been used as a source of energy and for healing as far back as the written word has been recorded. Jade, it seems, has always been used for amulets and jewellery in Eastern tradition. Indigenous people around the world have used turquoise as the icon of truth - those that wear it walk in integrity and speak the truth. Egyptians used ground malachite to create green eye shadow. Join Judith Hirst-Joyeux and her guest Roger Joyeux for Part 2 of the discussion on crystals. Hear about crystals that heal trauma. Learn about the crystal that creates its own light from within. Discover facts about clear quartz and smoky quartz. Find out which green stone may be placed on any part of the body. Gain some clarity in understanding what qualities one should look for in purchasing these crystals. Enjoy the knowledge that is being gifted in "Crystals With A Purpose".

“That we find a crystal or a poppy beautiful means that we are less alone, that we are more deeply inserted into existence than the course of a single life would lead us to believe.” – John Berger

Listen Live at: http://www.modavox.com/voiceamericacms/WebModules/HostModaview.aspx?ChannelId=4&HostId=603&Flag=1

Can’t catch the show – down load the mp3 for the show at the above link.  Recordings are available several hours after the show.

For More Information Visit : http://www.angelsandancestors.com

 

Ancestors Speak – Universal Law One

Mountain Lake – Picture from Microsoft Clip Art

 

Indigenous people around the world and our Ancestors recognized the truth of the first Universal Law - Maximum efficiency with minimal effort.  Humans, now, are not that tuned in.  It seems that we struggle against all odds all the time. And, if it looks like we will not win the goal we want to achieve, then we scheme and plot and manipulate to get our results.  It is called “control”. 

Animals do not waste effort. They tend to go with the flow of life.   Cows will take a meandering path which is always the easiest road. Pioneers followed goat tracks through the mountains because it was the easiest road. 

Water will always take the easiest path. And, as it washes over stones and down gullies and rushes along the bank of a river bed, it smoothes and polishes.  The dirt and rocks offer no resistance.  As they “move” in the flow, they become less, and yet more than they are. The rock becomes rounded and shiny and pure – for that which it does not need, dissolves and flows with the water.  Dirt becomes free to move, to travel to far away places and, when it settles, offers new energy to the environment around it.  It becomes more.

And what will you do now"?  Will you flow or will you not? 

Judy@angelsandancestors.com

Spirit Animal – Squirrel

  Black squirrel picture from Wikipedia..

After several inches of snow last night, I expected the yard to be very quiet.  Instead, I saw a miniature snow squall erupt from the mountain ash tree.  Three black squirrels were chasing one another through the tree, around the tree, and then back up the tree.  This lasted for about five minutes, and then all three of them shook off the snow, and climbed up on the bird feeder to forage out some sunflower seeds.

Squirrel and her companions sat on the bird feeder and munched, and glanced at the house, as though wondering whether I would put out more food.  Squirrel has never been shy about letting me know when more is needed.  I then realized that Squirrel’s lesson today is about trust!  Just as she trusts that there will be food in the yard, she tells me to trust that Great Spirit will provide for me.  Just as Squirrel feels comfortable and safe in my yard, Squirrel tells me to feel safe and comfortable in Great Spirit’s yard – Mother Earth.  The message that was coming through, loud and clear, was that I was not trusting enough, and in being somewhat reluctant to trust, I was limiting myself to all the treats that might be handed to me or left out for me.

As soon as I muddled through all of those thoughts, Squirrel chattered happily to the other two squirrels and they bounded down the pole, across the yard, and up the fence to disappear to a neighbouring yard.   I realized that I had received a very great gift.  I am grateful!

Judy@angelsandancestors.com    I would love to hear your squirrel story!

Spirit Animal – River Otter

North America River Otter – picture from Wikipedia… 

 

Last night, in my dream, several river otters were transformed from carefree, playful creatures into an ankle length fur coat.  I could only see the back of the coat, and every once in a while, it seemed that an eye would open on the back of the coat and look at me.  I woke up this morning with this image in my head.  Years ago, when I worked for Hudson Bay Northern Stores, we would get in shipments of cured furs, including otter.  The pelts were very soft and warm.  Most often, the pelts would be made into coats or jackets.  I wondered why I was getting this sequence of events.  Then I realized that I needed to talk about spirit animals today, and Otter was telling me that I should write about her.

Otter was born with a great curiosity, and will investigate anything that strikes her fancy.  She brings a message that we should indulge our curiosity about all things, and take no ones word for anything. Otter also looks at things from land, the surface of the water and from beneath the water.  Perspective may change, depending on the angle one views life from… so do not limit your self to one view point.  Explore many. 

We hear the words “go with the flow” and do not really know what that means because humans are constantly trying to control everything around them.  Otter drifts on the water, and follows the current, truly moving as one with the environment.  When in this state, it is easy to relax, and enjoy life.  The message is that we humans should not take life so seriously. 

Otter’s ability to be on land or deep in the water – it will hold its breath for up to four minutes – is a message about learning to get in touch with one’s deepest emotions.  It gives the example of going deep in the water to get food and this tells us that delving deep into our emotions to free up pain is food for our soul. 

Family has deep meaning for Otter who takes care of her offspring for as a two years.  Additionally, Otters love company and live in social groups.  Conservationists have found Otter to be very gentle and trusting.  She will come up on the bank to visit.  Her openness teaches us that we too need to be more trusting, and to embrace new adventures with enthusiasm. 

I wish you “Otter” filled days!

Judy@angelsandancestors.com

Buddha Speaks - Attachment

The following words come from a teaching by Venerable Jagaro of the Dhammaloka Buddhist Centre in Perth.  These words were a lesson that I needed around understanding attachment, and to help clients who are attached.  May these words help you as well.

Judy@angelsandancestors.com

Picture from Microsoft Clip Art

 

In Buddhism we are interested in freedom the freedom of non- attachment. We carry around an immense burden of attachment to everything we consider 'me' and 'mine' , like a big heavy stone on our shoulders. When a wise person points out to us that we could throw off this burden, we regard them with suspicion. 'Throw it off? Then I wouldn't have anything left! I couldn't do that!' Thinking they will bring us happiness, we continue to lug around our personal investments and self interests this great big heavy burden! The Buddha taught that nothing is worth attaching to. Do not attach to anything: that will bring true peace and happiness. Reflect on the process of what we call suffering: what it really is how it arises. Only then can one begin to appreciate what attachment really is, what the result of attachment is, and begin to glimpse the idea and the possible results of non-attachment.

Attachment is something we create in the mind. When we let it go, we begin to experience the silent empty mind. This still, peaceful mind can be found when sitting in meditation. Is it possible to bring it also into our daily lives? Can we live as ordinary people with this non-attachment? There is one vital factor needed if we wish to live skilfully, and that factor is mindful awareness. This factor of knowing, of being present, is essential if we wish to go beyond our continual stream of thinking, projecting, analysing and reacting. It is difficult, isn't it? Without awareness, we are locked into our stale conditioning, like a monkey with its paw stuck in the biscuit jar . All it has to do to become free is let go, but this is just what it won't do. Actually , non-attachment is not something you have to do: all you have to do is stop attaching. This is natural for the enlightened mind, and it is awareness which makes this a real possibility in our lives.

The Buddha taught a Path, gave us a method of skilful means. Meditation is the tool to help us with the process of being present, of seeing attachment and tensions arising, of knowing when to relax and let go. The practice of meditation is very highly emphasised. The more you become aware, the more you can begin to experience true peace and happiness. There is no need to have anything else, no need to achieve anything.

Radio Show - The Shamanic Way of Working With Messenger Animals

Tuesday, February 24, 2009 at 12pm Pacific

Wolf image from Microsoft Clip Art

We do not have the same relationship with animals that our Ancestors did, even a hundred years ago. The change has been that we have moved away from depending on them as a food source to depending on them for emotional satisfaction, whether that is entertainment or comfort. In the process of this change, generally, we have lost our understanding of what animals mean to us at an energetic, mythic and symbolic level. We interact with them strictly at the physical. In this show, Judith Hirst-Joyeux will discuss how to recognize the messages that animals bring to us, and apply the direction to our lives. She will also guide listeners in an exercise to use spirit animals to bring you information on a question. Find out why cartoon animals sometimes show up frequently in your life. Begin looking for the Animal Messengers in your life!

Listen LIVE to 7thWaveNetwork!
Be sure to tune to Angels And Ancestors Tuesdays at 12PM PST. Link   http://www.modavox.com/voiceamericacms/WebModules/HostModaview.aspx?ChannelId=4&HostId=603&Flag=1

Angels Speak – Archangel Haniel

  Archangel Haniel artwork by Virginnia www.starlightangel.co.uk

 

I was sitting and wondering what the blog should be about, and I felt an energy on my left side… behind my shoulder.  I heard “write angels speak” and then I asked who? I had some difficulty hearing, and finally heard “Haniel”. 

I am grateful that she has come to support the New Moon Ceremony for Wednesday.  AA Haniel is often called the Angel of the Moon.  She also helps those with strong psychic or mystical gifts.

Her message is…

Dear ones, as the Moon changes in relationship to your home, know that it is because of the different Earth shifts, as polarity shifts and your awareness rises.  The Moon will call you more now as she speaks of the ebb and flow of life force on Earth. Your life force is anchored in water, therefore you feel the pull of the Moon just as she pulls the waves of the Ocean.  The waves are. Whether they are large ones for surfing, or gentle ones that lull the sailors to sleep, the waves never question.  They simply exist.  If you will pardon the pun, they go with the flow. 

That, dear Ones, is exactly what you all need to do.  This is a time of letting go.  Attachments will be like cement blocks holding you back.  It is in not attaching significance to the changing monetary systems and the changing economies that the change will happen swiftly.  Healing will begin even as the changes are still completing.

Do what you need to do, and do it with grace and joy.  Provide for one another. Share what you have. Do it with love and compassion.

Blessings,

judy@angelsandancestors.com

Tarot Discussion – King of Disks

 

  The King of Disks card from the Maxwell Miller deck “The Universal Tarot”

 

My goal this morning was to see what today had in store for me, and what I had to be prepared for.  I was surprised to pull the King of Disks.  I use the Maxwell Miller deck because I enjoy the blending of all of the physical, symbolic and mythic images from all cultures and from all belief systems.  I find the power of the cards to be one of integrity.

Back to the card, this card is the Archetypal Shaman, who in his power, is one with Nature.  Shaman converse with the birds, animals and plants. They heal with herbs (leaves).  The Thunderbirds carry him to the heavens or bring messages from the Ancestors. 

While Kings generally are shown on horseback, or on a throne or beside a throne, the Shaman is unique.  Shaman create their own tools and carry them, giving them power where ever they are.  The drum will have been made in the sacred way, and possibly made with horse hide, deer hide, or buffalo, depending on the locale.  The amulet on his neck will be bone on leather and indicates a feminine aspect of self as does the sheath type dress.  The horns – the Shaman’s mask – are about creation and renewal since all stags shed their horns come spring.  The Shaman then is in perfect balance between worlds, between the masculine and the feminine, and between the seasons. 

The message for me then, is to honour my role as a Shaman, and to stay balanced.  The Shaman is comfortable with the material world as a supporting tool for what he does.  It seems that there will be a period of growth in the business that will support the many things I will be doing for Spirit.  Aho!

judy@angelsandancestors.com

Spirit Animal - Badger

Badger in an inquisitive moment! Courtesy Microsoft clipart.

 

Did you know that badgers are by nature very playful? This trait is because Badger is part of the same family as otters (very playful!), ferrets (also playful) and weasels. Most of us though, tend to think of badger as grumpy and perpetually fierce. Most of what we know comes from Britain where they have lived forever, and are one of the favoured animals of the Green Man - keeper of the forest and all things wild.

Badger may be solitary or may live in clans of up to about a dozen members. They are very family oriented and will stop at nothing to protect their mates and their young. Badger's courage is widely admired as it has been known to fight wolves, bears and man, and send them all fleeing. For this reason, many European coats of arms feature badger as a prominent insignia - to show stamina and courage. In tribal cultures, the badger skin was a worn as a head dress to show that the chief or warrior was strong and full of courage, just like a badger. Indeed the black stripes on the badgers head, around the eyes is reminiscent of war paint used from the time of the ancients.

When Badger appears in your life, you may be sure that it is now time to put fear aside, and to take the step beyond compromise. Badger encourages you to stand your ground, to be firm in your boundaries, to speak your truth and stand in your power, and to disregard what others may think or feel about what you are doing. Be sure that when Badger appears you are in a place where all you love is being or going to be challenged. She says that you must fight now or risk losing all forever.

Judy@angelsandancestors.com  Do you have an experience with Badger? Is she your power animal?  Send us your story!

Spirit Animal - Flamingo

Pink flamingos on someone’s lawn are a common site in North America. Yet, these birds are not native to North America, even though every zoo has an exhibit of flamingos.  They actually live in  in Southern Europe, Africa, India, Madagascar, Central & South America and the Caribbean West Indies.

American Flamingo from Wikipedia

 

 

Flamingo, however, carries many messages from Great Spirit to share with those who are meant to see her.  If Flamingo does not eat the proper foods, she turns white. The white connects her to Spirit, and yet shows that her diet is lacking, and may indicate that she is close to shifting from this plane to the next.  Flamingo may be an early warning for those that abuse their bodies, a warning that Death is fickle.  Flamingo has a black tipped beak and several black wing feathers, again, indicating a link to mystery and magic.  If Flamingo looks at you and stretches out her neck and her wings, she is indicating to take off in your study of mysticism.

However, she warns that one must stay in a large group of like minded people for safety and for strength of the energy. Each Flamingo blends with the rest, one seldom sees a lone Flamingo any where out side the flock.  Flamingo counsels that one can be innovative without being the leader.  It is very important to hold to one’s integrity and truth while in the flock, and yet be one with the flock.

Flamingo has large eyes and a small brain so the individual bird may have some difficulty in interpreting a situation.  She relies on the knowledge of the flock and therefore, taps into the community consciousness or “herd mentality”.  The message is clear to those who tend to want to be loners and do things on their own. Community and the synergy of the minds in community will achieve more than any single individual.  The individual needs to learn to work in harmony with the group and use the group to achieve a better quality of life.  Those that stay alone tend to die sooner.

Perhaps Flamingo is coming to you in a dream.  As she walks along, she wades through water that is up to the elbow on her leg.  Now, she is sending a message that you need to be like her, and wade through the water of emotion.  What is it you have not dealt with?  Often, Flamingos legs are longer than her body.  The idea is that one can always touch bottom and stay grounded if one is surrounded by a community.

May your Flamingo message bring you good medicine.

Judy@angelsandancestors.com

Ancestors Speak – Healing Grief

“I am the gentle autumn rain” ~ picture from Freefoto.com

 

 

 

Generally, we associate grief with the death of a loved person or pet.  For some reason, and it is different for each of us, we feel angry that the person/pet had to die at this time.  At some point, many of us are angry at God for allowing the disease or illness or even age to take the object of our grief.  And with our grief, we internalize it, until, one day, it simply needs to come out.  The release happens by way of tears.

I was at a funeral recently where this poem was in the program, and I found that these words helped me heal some grief that I felt.  For some reason, thinking that the person would become an active part of nature gave me solace. Our Ancestors have known this for centuries.

NATIVE AMERICAN PRAYER

I give you this one thought to keep --I am with you still – I do not sleep.

I am a thousand winds that blow,I am the diamond glints on snow,

I am the sunlight on ripened grain, I am the gentle autumn rain.

When you awaken in the morning’s hush, I am the swift, uplifting rush of quiet birds in circled flight.

I am the soft stars that shine at night. Do not think of me as gone – I am with you still – in each new dawn

                     Author Unknown

Sometimes, we just need to sit in a quiet place and let the grief come out of us.  What if, however, the grief is for a different reason than loss of life?  What if it is a personal grief over the loss of a job, or lover or whatever?  Grief is a mental or mind activity.  In the book, “The Buddha and The Way To Happiness” by Tien Cong Tran, Ph.D., one finds the Buddhist definition for grief on Page 44.  It reads, “GRIEF: “And what, bhikkhus, is grief? Whatever mental painful feeling, mental unpleasant feeling, painful or unpleasant sensation results from mental contact, – that is called grief.””

The meaning of this passage, seems to me to say that grief is what we make it.  The opposite than is that we can unmake grief. While that may be true, it is very much an individual action.  Just as each of us will heal a cut on our body in different ways and times, each of us will heal our grief differently.

I know that I am still grieving – it just does not hurt quite so much. 

Judy@angelsandancestors.com

Buddha Speaks – Truth

Chrysanthemum styled porcelain vase with three colors from the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644 AD) at the National Museum of China  from Wikipedia…..

 

 

 

In my study of all things Buddhism, I came across a little book called “The Little Book of Zen Haiku, Koans, Sayings” from Barnes and Noble, and edited by Manuela Dunn Mascetti.  Now, Koans are stories that are meant to be puzzling to help the student gain enlightenment after meditating on the story – sometimes for great lengths of time.

The Koan that I am sitting with is called “Tipping Over A Vase”. 

Hyakujo wished to send a monk to open a new monastery.  He told hi disciples that whoever answered a question most ably would be appointed.  Placing a water vase on the ground, he asked, “Who can say what this is without calling its name?”

The Chief monk said, “No one can call it a wooden shoe.”

Isan, the cooking monk, tipped over the vase with his foot and went out. 

Hyakujo smiled and said, “The chief monk loses.” And, Isan became the master of the new monastery.

The point of the Koan is to show that truth, as symbolized by the water vase, can only be shown. The cooking monk makes this demonstration very effectively.

As one meditates on the story, the idea is to assimilate the message into one’s life.  As I contemplated, I realized that President Obama is very much like the cooking monk.  He is being called out of the kitchen (Chicago and area) to open a new era of politics.  And, Obama has no other way to give Americans and the World the truth then to show the truth, over and over. 

One of the leadership tools that I used to teach in my Organizational Behaviour Class was “How to Refute Rumour”.  The only way was to ignore it, not comment on it, and show the employees what the truth was. 

Truth is healing! It gives us a spiritual peace.  We feel balanced and at one with all things… Nature is our friend.  Sadly, we as a civilization seem to have moved far from Truth.  Perhaps we have reached the furthest swing of the pendulum and we are now ready to start kicking over vases, politicians, corrupt CEO’s and Boards, to get at the Truth.

May you find Truth in all you do!

judy@angelsandancestors.com

View my page on Healing International

The Light in Crystals - Black and Green Crystals

Tuesday, February 17, 2009 at 12pm Pacific

Amethyst Geode by S. Roger Joyeux  Copyright 2006 Joytography, used with permission

 

 

When you were a kid, did you love to collect stones? Did you feel each stone was telling you a story? Perhaps you gather stones and crystals now. Do you know why, other than you feel drawn to them? Join us for an hour of discussion on how LIGHT works with crystals. The light that comes in with a crystal may be highly specialized or quite general. Learn some of the reasons that we like black and green rocks/crystals. My guest, Roger Joyeux, is a Crystal Master who has been working with crystals for twenty years. He explains that crystals may act on our subtle body or on our physical body. To be clear, crystals may work with our minds, chakras, etherics, emotions, awareness, polarity and our souls and vibration. Some crystals even facilitate inter-dimensional communication. Bring out your black and green crystals so you can work with them! This is Part One of a two part series.  Listen at http://www.modavox.com/voiceamericacms/WebModules/HostModaview.aspx?ChannelId=4&HostId=603&Flag=1

Missed the Live Show ?  This episode is rebroadcast at 12am Pacific. Past Episodes are available On Demand and Podcast Ready

Listen LIVE to 7thWaveNetwork!
Be sure to tune to Angels And Ancestors Tuesdays at 12PM PST.

For More Information Visit : http://www.angelsandancestors.com

Or email judy@angelsandancestors.com

Buddha Speaks – Compassion Of The Blue Bird…

The photographer who took this series of pictures was in the right place at the right time.

Although these are unusual pictures, similar actions have been observed throughout non-human   life forms on land, and in the air and  water.  Many animals have shown signs of remorse over   the death of another.  You may have read a recent news report of a dog that dragged a dead dog   off a busy highway, apparently to keep cars from hitting it. 

 

Here his wife is injured and the condition is fatal.

 

 

 

 

Here he brought her food and attended to her with love and compassion.

 

 

 

 
He brought her food but shocked to find her dead. He tried to move her.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  Aware that his sweetheart is dead and will never

come back to him again, he cried with adoring love.

He stood beside her, saddened of her death. 
 

Finally aware that she would never return to him,

he stood beside her body with sadness and sorrow.

Millions of people cried after watching this picture in

America and Europe and even in India. It is said that the

photographer sold these pictures for a nominal fee to the

most famous newspaper in France. All copies of that newspaper

were sold out on the day these pictures were published.

And some people think animals don't have a brain or feelings?????

Photo credits go to AbuNawaf.com and many thanks to my friend, Roxanne, for sharing this great story.

judy@angelsandancestors.com

Spirit Animal – Snow Leopard

"Their big eyes are so well adapted for low-light vision that snow leopards can hunt in near total darkness—but they can still go hungry when humans compete for their prey. Though trophy hunts for wild sheep and goats bring income to local communities, they can deplete food stocks for snow leopards."   Out of the Shadows, photo project by Steve Winter  The Winner of The Best Wild Nature Photo 2008

Snow Leopard has the colour brown, for the Earth, black for the Night and mystery and magic, and white for the Day, and connection to Great Spirit.  The reverence for Snow Leopard is displayed in the many legends around it.

In  Nepal, in Dolpo, there are stories of great lamas frequently making trips to Tibet in the form of snow leopards, in search of rare medicinal herbs. Other folklore describes the snow leopard as a “fence” for the crops, meaning that in the absence of snow leopards livestock would be free ranging and thus would invade crop fields.

Dr. John Mock, in 2004, went to Pakistan, and investigated some of their myths.  This is one around the Snow Leopard.

Pari are female supernatural denizens of the high mountains. People in Pakistan, Afghanistan, north India and throughout Central Asia are familiar with pari. The Wakhi ethnic population in northern Pakistan, China, Tajikistan and Afghanistan have their own word for pari: mergichan. The mergichan inhabit the mergich realm, which is the realm of the mountains and high pastures. It is a pure, even sacred realm, where the supernatural mountain spirits tend their wild flocks of blue sheep and ibex. The Wakhi word for snow leopard is pes. A pes is a mergich animal found only in mergich areas. It rarely interacts with people, is hard to see, powerful, beautiful, and potentially dangerous. As such, it exemplifies many of the qualities of the mergichan, and so is an appropriate animal shape for them to assume.

If Snow Leopard comes to you, then know it brings several messages, and all of them or some of them may be for you!

1. Living high in the mountains, this animal is at one with Great Spirit and Mother Earth.  Leopard communes with the Wisdom Keepers (in Munay-Ki the mountains are Wisdom Keepers).  She reminds you to open up your intuitive abilities.
2. Snow Leopard moves invisibly and so is able to stalk her prey, as elusive as her prey is.  The message is clear – keep a very low profile as you pursue your goals to avoid drawing attention and competition to what you do.
3. Leopard is a hunter that attacks the neck from the back. As many belief systems say the soul enters and leaves through the back, it is believed that Leopard may consume souls. If Leopard comes to you, know that she is telling you that it is difficult for you to meet people face on, and to ensure your back is covered.  She also cautions about moving up on someone else’s back.  Balance in all things is required.  If you do need to defeat someone, beware of taking on their “stuff”.
4. Leopard medicine is one that requires strong bodies – and quick action.  This may lead to humans with quick, angry tempers.  Leopard cautions that the angry energy must be released. If not released, it will settle into the body causing pain in the bones and limbs…arthritis may result.

May those of you with Leopard medicine find peace.

judy@angelsandancestors.com

Ancestors Speak – Uncovering the ANCESTORS on Isle of Wight

The world is going through huge changes in the way we live…

1. our ancestors started out on a barter system and as we find our financial system no longer viable because of the fraud built into it, we return to a barter system.
2. our ancestors honoured their elderly by keeping them in the home, however small the home might be.  We put our elderly into residences to be cared for, or not, by others.  And now, these residences are becoming infested with germs that the workers carry into the environment.  Our elderly are abandoned.  And we wonder what will happen to us.
3. our ancestors kept the bones of the deceased close to the home, quite often in a crypt or mausoleum, because it was easier for the Ancestral Spirits to visit the home and to guard the family.  In turn, it was easier for the living to take gifts (incense, food, flowers, trinkets) to keep on good terms with the Ancestral Spirits so they would continue to act as guardian angels.  Now we bury our dead in cemeteries, sometimes hours from where we live, and we forget them.  We are caught up in the “doing” and we wonder if God has forgotten us.
4. our ancestors lived using the bounty from the land.  As towns and cities emerged, the age of wastefulness dawned. There was little room in the cities for recycling anything including human waste, and disease spread.  Now, we are aware of wastefulness and governments encourage consumers to reduce, reuse, and recycle. Yet corporations dump waste from cruise ships into the oceans and toxic waste is dumped from factories and research facilities.  The cycle of waste has gotten larger and more lethal.

The outlook may seem dark, yet paganism (shamanism and Buddhism in all its forms) balance out the effects of the negative.  The celebration of love and life, and merging with nature by celebrating Nature, are making big differences.

Perhaps one day archaeologists will be able to dig through the soil and find our perfectly preserved bones in the same way that Dr. Sweetman has been able to uncover the bones of our Ancestors.  130 million years ago, the bones were simply left in place, and so honoured because they were not disturbed – until now. 

Enjoy the read about Sweetman’s discovery!

 

The dinosaur hunter who has discovered 48 species in just four years... on the Isle of Wight  By David Derbyshire  Last updated at 10:07 AM on 10th February 2009………..FROM THE ARTICLE>>>>>>Discoveries: Dr Sweetman has mastered a technique which has helped him unearth 48 new species of prehistoric creatures, including eight dinosaurs. His haul includes at least eight new dinosaurs, along with frogs, lizards, salamanders, sharks  - and rarest of all - six tiny mammals, some as small as a shrew. The discoveries were found hidden in mud of the Isle of Wight and are shedding new light on life in prehistoric Britain around 130 million years ago.

judy@angelsandancetors.com

Ancestors Speak – The Act of Creation

Our ancestors from Africa, where scientists believe we all descend from related sisters. – picture from Microsoft Clip Art.

 

 

This selection comes from a thought provoking book that I am reading called “Beyond 2012 – A Shaman’s Call To Personal Change and the Transformation for Global Consciousness”.  It seems like a good follow up to the article on Innovation.  I was reading in the news where more women have been killed in an act of self righteousness by men – based on the men’s religious beliefs.  It seems odd that one’s religious beliefs gives them leeway to act as judge and jury. 

The Goddesses and Gods of our Ancestors, the Angels, especially Archangel Michael, all fit into legends where they fight the injustice of the religious just.

Here is the selection that I feel compelled to share.

“Please tell me more, Grandmother!”

“First of all, this idea that there is one MALE god that sits above all else, and idea that is dominant in your culture, is at the core of the crises of your people.  This immature view of reality, that God is an Authoritarian Father, has historically caused, and continues to perpetuate, the empowerment of men and the devaluation of women.  Seeing God as the Father is completely imbalanced, for there can be no Father without a Mother. Masculine and feminine are a sacred pair.  They are equals.  This truth must be put back in balance on your world.  The feminine acts of creation must be allowed to re-emerge.”

“Feminine acts of creation?”

“Yes, hijo, this is very important for you to learn. Masculine and feminine acts of creation are complementary but different.  Men will typically either fight or retreat when under stress, while women will usually communicate or nurture.  Men generally define themselves by their work, and they form hierarchies based on dominance.  Women tend to bond together, talk about problems, care for the children.  The maternal aspects of creation are what is needed now in order to heal your Mother and stop your wars. women with maternal instincts must be given equal voice in your patriarchal governments and religions.  This is the only cure in healing your Mother and your people.”  --- quoted from James Endredy, “Beyond 2012 – A Shaman’s Call To Personal Change and the Transformation for Global Consciousness”, page 71 of Chapter Five.

Part of the Rockies – the last frontier from Microsoft Clip Art

 

While not every man is looking for dominance, and not every woman is nurturing, the theme of dominance vs. nurturing has been getting stronger as our civilization struggles with a failing economy, lack of food and water, and lack of community.  The community is a feminine construct that nurtures the people within it.  Our Ancestors had villages that were loved and nurtured by the Shaman, WiseMan or WiseWoman, who were in balance and were both the Mother and the Father.

As we watch light workers begin to move into the rural areas and by farms and create communities, it seems that the circle of life is completing yet again.

May each of you find your community and feel the peace and love of that harmony.

judy@angelsandancestors.com

Ancestors Speak - Thunder Above Eagle Symbols

Thunder Symbol - Totem Element of the direction “East”

Eagle Symbol - Totem from the Direction "Above"

 

These symbols represent one direction that we may travel  - the path of INNOVATION.  The last thirty years have been a time of complex innovation.  The Ancestors speak that new ways or innovation is the way that humans continue the process of creation on behalf of Creator.

Nature does this very well.  Overtime, animals, plants, birds, fish, and insects have all made innovations in their behaviour or in their colouring to ensure the species continues.  Mother Earth innovates the changes in topography and climate.  Australia is currently going through the "great burning".  When burning happens in the forests in Western Canada, pine cone seeds are allowed to "pop" out of their casing and given the Phoenix blessing to grow and prosper.  When we do not have the understanding of the very large picture, it is hard for us to see what Great Spirit is creating.  And so we judge things good/bad, right/wrong.  We are human.

Thunder is part of the rain storm. It provides nutrients in the air that feed the plants.  It also provides an energy that invigorates us, and we say that "lightening strikes" when we get a new idea. The thunder then, is bringing Divine inspiration. 

What if innovation seems to be a negative, such as the creation of weapons for war, or resistant strains of airborne viruses that may cause epidemics?  When creation happens with out "The Heart" direction, or one's accountable place in creation, then Darkness prevails.  If the act of creation is done without love, then the item created is actually "anti-creation" or, destruction.  And, as we live in a ying-yang world, the Destruction balances the Creation. In the balance lies the perfection, although we may not see it.  As the Algonquin say, "Harmony is achieved through counterbalance".

How does the Eagle fit in?  Eagle is the “earthly” messenger from Great Spirit.  The Elders say that the eagle represents body, mind and spirit, and that is why it is a strong totem for man who may forget the source of one’s spirit. The Eagle, then, grounds the inspiration for change or innovation.  It is a reminder to do the innovation in the name of Great Spirit; in the name of all that is good.  Legends of Eagle always show that Eagle stands on the path of THE LIGHT and champions greatness. 

If you are feeling “THUNDER OVER EAGLE”, you may be receiving the calling to create.  You may be an inventor or an artist/crafts spirit.  Simply sitting down and doing a craft, fixing something, or making plans to create something new, will quiet your spirit and give you peace.

Many blessings to those of you called on this path of Innovation.

Judy@angelsandancestors.com

Buddha Speaks - When?

Sun Circle... © S. Roger Joyeux and used with permission...

 

 

I am doing some reading on various teachings from Buddha, and I am finding that I enjoy the teachers as well as the various lessons from Buddha. 

One reading that strikes chords in me, at various chakras is the teaching "When".  Perhaps it will strike a chord in you as well. 

It makes me think of the the book "Outliers" which talks about the best performers of any work or art having to put in their "bootcamp" time of 10,000 hours before they can be great.  If we cannot determine even when to start, we will never be great.  In fact, we won't even make mediocre. 

When?

At this time, while you have all the opportunities, if you do not do your best to achieve the pure, stainless path to enlightenment when will you do it?

If you don't meditate, don't practise the graduated path to enlightenment, especially bodhicitta, in this life, then when?
When will you practise? When will you have this realization?
If, in this life, you don't achieve renunciation, bodhicitta and sunyata, as well as the two stages of tantra, when will you?

When will you have these attainments?
When will you become enlightened?
When will you perform perfect work for sentient beings?  ~~~~~~Lama Zopa Rinpoche~~~~~~~~~~~~~

judy@angelsandancestors.com   Let me know if this made you review what you are doing in your life.

Ancestors Speak - What Warriors Used To Soothe Feet After Marching - Rosemary Footbath

"Rosemary in bloom" - from Wikipedia

I love using Rosemary in cooking, especially with wild meat such as venison.  However, I was blown away when I was reading how our Ancestors treated badly mistreated feet after days of marching  - they used a ROSEMARY FOOTBATH.

The recipe for this is quite simple:

1 handful of rosemary (1/2 cup)    1 cup boiling water

Add rosemary to boiling water to make an infusion.  Let sit for 25 minutes.  Strain the rosemary out of the water, and add the strained water to a tub of lukewarm water.  Soak feet for at least 15 minutes.  Do this twice per week to alleviate sweaty feet and the resulting blisters.  This also kills the bacteria that cause sweaty feet.

Let me know how this recipe works for you!

judy@angelsandancestors.com

Reminder of radio show on 7th Wave Network on Tuesday, Feb 10th at 1:00pm Mountain Time,

Tarot Discussion - Osho Zen Tarot X and

I have been experiencing an aimlessness for the last several weeks, ever since the triangulation of January 11th.  I feel lost in what I am doing - I have been serving the light in my own way intensely for the last two years.   Asking what I needed to do, the CHANGE card came up in the Osho Zen deck. 

Card X from the Osho Zen Tarot...

I have had this card before... in November just after another triangulation.  I understand about change and I understand that I must change... however, I do need more guidance than that.  What am I supposed to be doing?

So I drew another card. 

This was the card BEYOND ILLUSION, card XX in the deck.... a X and a double X.  I am seeing a pattern here.

Card XX from the Osho Zen Tarot - BEYOND ILLUSION

The commentary on this card rocked me!  It said that I was almost hanging on to the old - because that is where I feel comfortable...

"The butterfly in this card represents the outer, that which is constantly moving and that which is not real but an illusion. Behind the butterfly is the face of consciousness, looking inward to that which is eternal. The space between the two eyes has opened, revealing the lotus of spiritual unfoldment and the rising sun of awareness.

Through the rising of the inner sun, meditation is born. The card reminds us not to look outside for what is real, but to look within. When we focus on externals, we too often get caught up in judgments - this is good, this is bad, I want this, I don't want that. These judgments keep us trapped in our illusions, our sleepiness, our old habits and patterns."  from Osho Zen Tarot

The summary is that I need to spend more time inside - in meditation, and looking at a new way to manifest what I desire.  I now take responsibility for what I desire.

I wish you many new ways of viewing life!

Judy@angelsandancestors.com   See our website at www.angelsandancestors.com for links to our radio show and to see the workshops coming up.

Life 2009 - Event: Releasing Negative Energy That Causes Blocks In Our Life - Feb 10th at 1:00pm Mtn Time

Picture from Clip Art at Microsoft

 

Do you remember a time when you were doing something that made you absolutely happy? And then, someone, a parent, teacher, friend or stranger, came along and told you to stop, and perhaps, even had something derogatory to say. These experiences over time, over many lifetimes, are negative energies that seep into our bodies and block us from experiencing wholeness in our lives. Our Ancestors had various ways of releasing - saunas and sweat lodges, purging, submerging in water or earth, and working with Shaman. In this show, work with Judith Hirst-Joyeux to learn several different methods to clear negative energy. Learn, too, how to re-balance the body after releasing negative energy, and feel the lightness return to your body with these processes. Learn a simple process to clear your body daily. Take a step forward in self healing! Enjoy the peace in the process!

Connect with us on Tuesday Feb 10th at 1:00pm Mountain Time for the Angels And Ancestors Radio Show on 7th WaveNetwork...

See more at our host page: http://www.modavox.com/voiceamericacms/WebModules/HostModaview.aspx?ChannelId=4&HostId=603&Flag=1

You can also pick up the .mp3 for past shows at this site.

Or, email judy@angelsandancestors.com to ask questions, give comments or provide feedback to a show!

Spirit Animal - Eagles And Horses

When I was walking the dogs one morning (last week), we heard a racket to the left of us as the sun was rising.  There were five eagles sitting in one tree along the river. As we watched, the eagles lifted off the perch, one by one.  Later that day, we saw several horses playing in a field. 

The sequence of events made me think of the weekend of Jan 9th when we were at our friends' ranch.  We went from the horse corral through the bush to the small lake where I ran and soared like an eagle.

Then this morning, all morning, all I could see in my mind were "eagles and horses".  Later, as I was looking for some information to send to a friend, I found the link below to John Denver singing "Eagles and Horses", and the words. 

I am not sure why this is important.  Perhaps it is because the eagle and the horse represent freedom - freedom of movement, of thought, of infinite possibilities.  Whatever the reason, I invite you to enjoy the two links to movies about "Eagles and Horses" and lose yourself in the mystery.

Blessings,

Judy@angelsandancestors.com 

Click here to hear John Denver sing "Eagles and Horses...I'm Flying Again.

Click here for the Spirit animated version of Eagles and Horses.

Pictures from Microsoft Clip Art...

The Song - EAGLES AND HORSES

Horses are creatures who worship the earth
As they gallop on feet of ivory
Constrained by the wonder of dying and birth
The horses still run, they are free

My body is merely the shell of my soul
But the flesh must be given its due
Like a pony that carries its rider back home
Like an old friend that's tried and been true

I had a vision of eagles and horses
High on a ridge in a race with the wind
Going higher and higher and faster and faster
On eagles and horses I'm flying again

Eagles inhabit the heavenly heights
They know neither limit nor bound
They're the guardian angels of darkness and light
They see all and hear every sound

My spirit will never be broken or caught
For the soul is a free-flowing thing
Like an eagle that needs neither comfort nor thought
To rise up on glorious wings

I had a vision of eagles and horses
High on a ridge in a race with the wind
Going higher and higher and faster and faster
On eagles and horses Im flying again

My body is merely the shell of my soul
But the flesh must be given its due
Like a pony that carries its master back home
Like an old that's tried and been true

My spirit will never be broken or caught
For the soul is a free-flowing thing
Like an eagle that needs neither comfort nor thought
To rise up on glorious wings

I had a vision of eagles and horses
High on a ridge in a race with the wind
Going higher and higher and faster and faster
On eagles and horses Im flying again

Words and music by john denver and joe henry

Life 2009 - A Flying Car??

Flying car takes to the sky  - Mark Nichol

From the article.....It's ironic that, as car sales are sinking faster than ever, cars themselves are looking up and up - as the world's first 'affordable' flying car is unveiled. Click on the heading FLying Car to read more about this unique machine.

So why do I think this is so cool?  I like the plane/car idea because it is sooo... fantastical and "Back to the Future"!  We are in such fascinating times when we are all able to be so much more than we have been.  We do not need to be stuck in the past...the future is now and we all have the ability to be something new.

I wish you dreams of flying!

Judy@angelsandancestors.com

Spirit Animal - Eagle

"Eagle" from Microsoft Clip Art

 

 

Around the world, the Eagle is revered for its majesty, size, fierce look, and for its ability to soar so high. A sports team adopts it as a team name. Countries use it as their symbol. Shaman and warriors have worn its wings and claws to represent their power. In the Inca Tradition, the Eagle/Condor represents the Winds of the East. The prayer for the East goes,

To the winds of the East.
Great eagle, condor
Come to us from the place of the rising Sun

Keep us under your wing.
Show us the mountains we only dare to dream of.
Teach us to fly wing to wing with the Great Spirit.

- Alberto Villoldo, PhD. published in his book – Mending the Past and Healing The Future With Soul Retrieval…

The words linking Eagle to Great Spirit give one the sense of the majesty of Eagle, and why our Ancestors believed that Eagle was a traveler between worlds. Stories are told that one may watch Eagle soar up into the sky until she disappears. At that point, she walks with Creator and the Ancestors that have gone before.

Eagle has only ever killed for need, never for greed! If Eagle appears to you, then perhaps she has a message that someone around you is using you to satisfy their greed by using you and what you know. Eagle is known for her swiftness. She counsels that what ever you need to do, you must do it swiftly. However, before striking, Eagle rides the wind up high, and scans the land to see the “big picture”. She does not ever get caught in details. Eagle is a shining example that one must look at the consequences of all actions to see how it affects a much larger plan – Great Spirit’s plan. Often humans only have thoughts for themselves and not for others.

May you live your life with the grace of Eagle!

Judy@angelsandancestors.com  This story was first published in the February Issue of the Angels And Ancestors newsletter.  For the full newsletter, or to sign up for the free newsletter, go to www.angelsandancestors.com.

Ancestors Speak - Feb 2 is Imbolc or Groundhog Day

The people of the early British Isles were called Gaelic or Celts. They were similar to the people across the English Channel in that all grew tired of the cold, dreary winter and looked forward to spring.  In late January or early February, our Ancestors noted that the first signs of spring were appearing - the heralds of spring one might say.  In different parts of the land, it might be an animal, a bird, or even a tree or bush that showed the Sun was becoming stronger and the days longer.

To help the Goddess of Fertility to encourage good birthing in the animals for this was also the time of the early calves and lambs, the Ancestors would hold celebrations when the weather seemed that it was turning better - most frequently on February 2.  A festival of light and bonfires and dancing and story telling honouring the Goddess (Brigit) and the God (The Horned God) to ensure their divine help in keeping a food supply until the harvest happened.  The celebration was also to help cheer the Sun in to shining more brightly and warmly to hurry the thaw. 

Our Ancestors used animals that hibernate to determine the upcoming month of weather.  Bears, badgers, groundhogs, hedgehogs and snakes (serpents) are all used as guides.  People used to have faith that Mother Nature and the Oneness with all would adequately predict what their year would hold.  Once the prediction was finished, the Ancestors felt peaceful, and went about their lives.

Prosperous Imbolc to each of you!

Judy@angelsandancestors.com

Spirit Animal - Hippopotamus

   Hippopotamus pair standing on sandy riverbank, Kruger National Park, South Africa. © Scotch Macaskill

 

Hippopotamus lives in the water, most of the time, and as any of us are, is very protective of its home.  To adapt to the watery home and yet to be able to come out and eat greens on the side of the river, Hippo needed to change.  The evolution of Hippo puts all of its senses on the top of its very large head.

If Hippo is now showing up for you, perhaps it is because she is telling you that it is time to change.  If you have been looking down, nose to the grind stone, Hippo tells you that now is the time to look up. Look at the HEAVENS and know that it is time to pursue your multidimensional abilities and walk a path of spirituality.  It is time to pay attention to Mother Earth and hear and see the beauty around you.

Hippo's large body is perfect for her life style.  The Ancestors say that she represents fertility, and that she represents all of the Elder Fertility Goddesses... Pachamama is the great goddess of the Aztec and Inca. She represents Mother Earth and all fertility. Brigit is the Irish/Celtic goddess of fertility, and it was she who the women and the herders prayed to for bountiful births.  Hippo too has the ability to feed her children easily and to feed the crocodiles when her (Hippo's) time is up.  Representing great abundance, Hippo may be bringing you a message that you need to find ways to nourish yourself.  And, perhaps it is time that you nourished someone else.  When we help others is when we receive the most help ourselves. 

Hippo likes to be with others of her kind.  She will float in the water, secure in knowing that those around her keep watch and keep her protected.  As well, when she dives to the bottom of the river for food, she shows faith in her herd, that she may eat peacefully.

Hippo (Hippopotamus amphibius) opens its jaws wide in a yawning display, Elephant Plains Game Lodge, Sabi Sand Game Reserve, South Africa.  © Scotch Macaskill

Hippo's guidance may also be around getting back in touch with friends and family.  Know that they are the ones you may trust. Going it alone is hard and as you skimp on nourishing food to save time, you begin to erode your body and health.

Hippo says that it is now time to look to your very foundations.  Are they holding you up?  Do you need to strengthen your legs and arms with swimming? Do you need to eat with family and friends to slow down and to eat empowering food?  Do you need to take a walk in your emotions to see why you have become alone?

I wish you many blessings as you walk with Hippopotamus as a guide in your life!

Judy@angelsandancestors.com    Has Hippo shown up for you recently?  What was her message?