Is it the Apocalypse?

Crossposted from Reflections Journal.

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Okay. I say that a lot these days. But some mornings are so surreal I feel like I've gone to sleep in one world and woken in another. This is what I get for watching the news first thing in the morning. I should probably start with the coffee and work my way up to the news. Tornadoes, blizzards, earthquakes...

We're having "the stormiest New Years Eve in 60 years." I just heard that on MSNBC. With the Northeast still digging out from under the massive, Christmas snowfall, and the political fallout from same, fresh blizzards are now burying other parts of the country. All sorts of fun events are occurring, such as this hundred car pile-up on North Dakota. Snow, at least, is seasonal. Tornadoes, however, are not. But a freakish warm front has wreaked havoc down south, with confirmed tornadoes in  Arkansas and Missouri. At least three people have been killed.

A tornado fueled by an unusually warm winter air sliced through parts of northwestern Arkansas early on New Year's Eve, killing three people, injuring several others and knocking out power to thousands of homes and businesses.

The dead were killed at Cincinnati, a hamlet of about 100 about three miles from the Oklahoma border. Washington County sheriff's dispatcher Josh Howerton said the storm touched down near the center of the community. He said "lots of injuries" were reported, and officials in nearby Benton County said the storm injured two people and damaged five homes there.

. . .

"In the winter you don't always have the instability" that would allow tornadoes to develop, Buonanno said. "This time, we have the instability."

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"Why Shamanism Now?" with Christina Pratt

Vitality and Life Force of Your Purpose

At the core of well-being is the cultivation of right relationship with your self. Shaman and host, Christina Pratt explains that, from a shamanic perspective, right relationship with your self involves your physical and mental health as well as your engagement with others, with your environment, and with the spirit world. And all of this is put into context by one thing-your unique genius or soul's purpose. Well-being in all of these areas can be cultivated when we feel vitality and energy. And when we don't feel our vitality, even getting out of bed feels impossible. Our vitality and life force rise and fall relative to how close or far away we are from our soul's purpose. As we set our focus on living our purpose in the coming year we draw inspiration from the words of Martha Graham, "There is a vitality, a life force, an energy, a quickening that is translated through you into action. And because there is only one of you in all of time, this expression is unique. And if you block it, it will never exist through any other medium and it will be lost. The world will not have it. It is not your business to determine how good it is, or how valuable, or how it compares with other expressions. It is your business to keep it yours clearly and directly, to keep the channel open."

Tuesday, December 28, 2010 at 11:00 AM Pacific

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Horoscope for December 27, 2010 – January 2, 2011

Cross-posted from Aloha Astro

Aries (March 21st - April 20th)
Work may be stressful at the beginning of your week, Aries. It could be that some things slipped while you enjoyed the holidays. When you return to your routine on Monday, it may be difficult to find your flow again. Extra time or thought you spend on work that takes attention away from a mate could be a reason for some frostiness in the area of romance early in the week, but as the moon progresses through your chart and joins Venus in your 8th house of intimacy on New Year’s Eve, romance should be back on track. Watch for a tendency to allow outer forces to sway you. You still have the planets assisting you in the guidance and intuition areas of life, but there is a chance a friend or group is not straight up or something about what they suggest is not the right path for you.

Taurus (April 21st - May 20th)
Are friends and social activities distracting you from work this week, Taurus? Work on your communication skills by using friends and group activities as a means to network and self-promote. Make plans to go somewhere special with your beloved on New Year’s Eve, or consider attending a dance or party specifically for singles if you are looking for a partner. The moon will be putting stars in your eyes that night. It would be a shame not to make the most of the energy when the moon kisses your ruling planet, Venus, and gives you an extra dose of physical appeal. Those loving feelings can lead to fantasies and daydreaming on the job. It takes supreme effort for you to apply discipline and focus at work. Thankfully, the holiday energy of the week will let you get away with sliding until next week brings a more grounded energy to assist you.

Astrological Trends for December 27, 2010 – January 2, 2011

Cross-posted from Aloha Astro

The beginning of the work week is busy on Monday, December 27th. In the morning, the moon in the last degrees of Virgo opposing Jupiter conjunct Uranus in Pisces and quincunx Neptune/Chiron in Aquarius could make you feel as though you have so many things to accomplish that you just don’t know where to begin. Emotionally, you may be feeling some post-holiday letdown and are already wishing it was Friday so you could keep the holiday feeling going. Maybe you are one of the lucky ones who doesn’t have to return to the working world today. You can find plenty to do with clean-up from weekend celebrations, chores, and errands. You will still feel the weight of Mars in Capricorn square Saturn in Libra this week. Not all squares are bad, just as not all trines are good. This combination of Mars and Saturn can help you find the ways and means of getting things done and pushes you to become more serious in your thinking and firm in your relationships. Make the best of it – it is losing effect and will fade by the end of this week. The sun and Pluto conjunct in earthy Capricorn can cause you to look more intently at things and anything that you feel strongly about can seem bigger and more important than it may really be. Mercury will be retrograde in Sagittarius for just a few more days. Continue to be cautious in transportation and communication. Get your plans for new projects together so you can be ready to move ahead when Mercury turns direct on Thursday. A mild semi-sextile between Mercury in Sagittarius and Venus in Scorpio aids in pleasant exchanges and even some flirtation between people. Mercury parallel Pluto makes for strong thoughts and speech, possibly about sensitive subjects. Venus parallel Neptune makes you feel nostalgic and romantic. Around dinner time, the moon in the air sign of Libra forms a brief but annoying square to the sun conjunct Pluto in Capricorn, which can trigger some “I’m right, you’re wrong” moments. When the moon is parallel to Chiron this evening, your day will end on a peaceful and possibly romantic note.

Boar's Head Concert: A Medieval Christmas

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A History of the Boar's Head Festival

This pageant is rooted in ancient times when the boar was sovereign of the forest. A ferocious beast, and menace to humans, it was hunted as a public enemy. At Roman feasts, boar was the first dish served. Roasted boar was a staple of medieval banquets. As Christian beliefs overtook pagan customs in Europe, the presentation of a boar's head at Christmas came to symbolize the triumph of the Christ Child over sin.

O Christmas Tree: A Contemplation

Crossposted from Reflections Journal.

I love Christmas trees. Always have. Many of my warmest, childhood memories are of decorating the Christmas tree and waiting for Santa to bring me a Barbie, some Silly Putty, or an Easy Bake Oven. That's because I was raised in a Christian home. Pine trees and magical, gift giving elves were beloved by the baby Jesus. Remember? In the stable when Joseph and Mary were visited by the three wise men and Santa Claus, with his reindeer, and they all sang "O Tannenbaum?" Okay... Maybe I have that wrong.

So, how did the Christmas tree come to be such an integral part of Christmas? Like so many of our beloved Christmas traditions they derive primarily from ancient, pre-Christian, pagan cultures. Historically, they have an uneasy relationship with Christianity; alternately rejected as pagan artifacts and claimed vehemently as Christian rather than secular. Many Christians would probably be surprised to learn that the ancient pagan practice of decorating tree cuttings, which occurred in parts of the Middle East long before the birth of Christ, is specifically condemned in the Bible.

"Thus saith the LORD, Learn not the way of the heathen, and be not dismayed at the signs of heaven; for the heathen are dismayed at them. For the customs of the people are vain: for one cutteth a tree out of the forest, the work of the hands of the workman, with the axe. They deck it with silver and with gold; they fasten it with nails and with hammers, that it move not." ~ Jeremiah 10:2-4

The use of evergreens has a specific symbolic appeal in the dead of winter. Many scholars of paganism and goddess worship will tell you that pine trees represent eternal life because they remain vibrant throughout the dead of winter. I read about this in far too many books when I first started exploring goddess traditions, many moons ago, for me to source and cite them all. Here is a good overview from Religious Tolerance.org.

Mr. Deity and the Eternal Fire

Crossposted from Reflections Journal.

Today is the winter solstice. All over the world, throughout history, various traditions have celebrated this day by keeping the flame alive through the darkness. So I thought it fitting that I post this recent Mr. Deity about his version of the eternal fire. It's a little different and a lot meaner. Actually there are two recent videos in the player. The first one is very short. Both are excellent examples of why I love this series. Mr. Deity as played by Brian Dalton totally embodies the God of the Bible; the jealousy, the vanity, the caprice, the total lack of critical thinking skill... Of course he's decidedly more affable but I suspect it would be unwatchable otherwise.

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"Why Shamanism Now?" with Christina Pratt

Ethics and the First Shaman

"The ethics of shamanic practice were brought by the First Shaman who was of Divine origins and not entirely human. The First Shaman brought knowledge and the skills across that broken bridge between the Creator to the humans in each shamanic lineage," explains shaman and host, Christina Pratt. "The First Shaman brings the teachings necessary for survival in all aspects of daily life, both ordinary and non-ordinary. The First shaman brought the teachings for how to live in good relationship with ones self, with each other, with the Ancestors and the beings of the spirit world, and with the physical environment. Cultures, traditions, and civilizations were all built on the knowledge brought by the First Shaman. The First Shaman taught the next shaman, a human shaman, how to work with the spirits, conduct ritual and ceremony and to serve the people. This is important for us as contemporary shamans to realize. Each shaman, though human, endeavored to walk the path of that First god-like shaman. From this effort comes the morals and the ethics of the practice as well as the continual need for personal sacrifice, cleansing, and ongoing transformation to stay on that path.

Tuesday, December 21, 2010 at 11:00 AM Pacific

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Into the Dark Night of the Solstice Eclipse

Crossposted from Reflections Journal.

This year's winter solstice marks a rare astronomical event. It coincides with a full lunar eclipse. So it will be a long, dark night, indeed.

As many as 1.5 billion people worldwide will be able to watch when the Earth's shadow creeps across the moon's surface early Tuesday morning, the first time in hundreds of years that a lunar eclipse will fall on the winter solstice.

With the full moon high in the winter sky, the lunar eclipse will be visible from four continents, with the best views from North America and Central America if weather permits, scientists say.

. . .

Geoff Chester of the U.S. Naval Observatory inspected a list of eclipses going back 2000 years for NASA.

"Since Year 1, I can only find one previous instance of an eclipse matching the same calendar date as the solstice, and that is 1638 DEC 21," Chester said, according to NASA. "Fortunately we won't have to wait 372 years for the next one ... that will be on 2094 DEC 21."

Horoscope for December 20-26

Cross-posted from Aloha Astro

Aries (March 21st - April 20th)
Thought followed by action occurs in all areas of your life this week, Aries. Your forecast sounds a bit broad, but the full moon in Gemini and total eclipse activate broad houses for you concerning thinking, teaching, selling, writing, and traveling. Other planets are keeping you busy with relationship and your career, too. As the moon moves through houses of your chart this week, it is forming multiple aspects with planets in houses opposite the transiting moon, so you do have a full platter. Literally anything and everything may require your attention. Not surprising, since it is a holiday week and you are likely to be doing more, seeing more people, and traveling to more places as a result. The mental stimulation and shifts the moon produces may have the greatest long-term effect on your work and career, but please read the Libra horoscope for more insight.

Taurus (April 21st - May 20th)
Personal values, money, investments, insurance, inheritance, or anything financial that looks toward the future are the important areas activated by the full moon and eclipse energy in the sign of Gemini for you, Taurus. A step toward greater responsibility and maturity with the intention of building wealth quickly is possible. The next area of your chart that is activated by the transiting moon will put you in touch with advisors who can help you attain your financial goals. Travel to visit family for the holidays is likely for many Bulls. Romance is heating up and turning serious. I think there will be a number of you giving or receiving a proposal of marriage and flashing an engagement ring this Christmas. Male and female Taureans both love precious metals and fine stones and I hope Santa remembers that well-known fact!

Astrological Trends for December 20-26

Cross-posted from Aloha Astro

Intense energy builds on Monday, December 20th, as the moon in Gemini approaches fullness and a total lunar eclipse early in the morning hours of the 21st. The mutable air sign of Gemini rules mental creativity, teaching, and learning. It is curious, playful, restless, fickle, and easily bored. I feel that the full moon and eclipse will show you areas of your life where you have been immature or not paying attention closely enough. In the evening, the moon opposes Mercury retrograde in Sagittarius conjunct the sun in Sagittarius while activating a T-square of moon opposing sun in Sagittarius, moon square Jupiter/Uranus in Pisces, and the sun/Mercury square Jupiter/Uranus in Pisces. Another characteristic of both Gemini and Sagittarius is the tendency to spin yarns or tell stories – in other words, lie. Pisces can do the same, but more through a casting of impressions or by alluding to things rather than using direct speech. It is rare for the mutable signs to lie deliberately with the intent to harm or mislead. It is their mutable, changeable, adaptable quality that leads them to shift their own energy to any given situation the way a chameleon changes colors to blend into the surroundings. It is a good defensive trait. They are all signs that love to be social, please people, and be liked in return. If that means embellishing the facts or telling a tall tale for entertainment value or to give an impression to get what they want, they will do so without a second thought. The mutable signs, in general, see the gray areas of life much more easily than the cardinal and fixed signs that see only the black and white. This full moon/eclipse/T-square pattern will ask you to look at the gray areas of your life. Where have you been too vague, misleading, evasive, or deceptive to yourself and others? Consider it a planetary game of Truth or Dare meets Show and Tell.

The Vatican: Enabling Predators, Passing the Buck

Crossposted from Reflections Journal.

As discussed, the Vatican refused to cooperate with the Murphy commission in Ireland and was apparently indignant at the request. Disclosures like this most recent one could explain their reluctance to being exposed. Here is yet another case of the Vatican refusing to defrock a horrifyingly prolific pedophile; a serial abuser with hundreds of victims.

The Vatican tried to stop Dublin church leaders from defrocking a particularly dangerous pedophile priest and relented only after he raped a boy in a pub restroom, an investigation reported Friday.

Dublin Archbishop Diarmuid Martin said he fully accepted the findings of the latest chapter in Ireland's investigation into child abuse by Catholic Church figures.

Martin called Tony Walsh an "extremely devious man" who should never have been ordained a priest, and said the report highlighted how the church had grown too powerful and arrogant in 20th century Ireland.

William Henry: The Seraphim, Kundalini, and Ascension

Crossposted from Reflections Journal.

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As I mentioned here, William Henry has been contemplating the seraphim. He may not be experiencing stigmata like St. Francis but he seems to have had a revelatory experience, marking the  Coast to Coast interview posted below something of a break-through. Embracing serpent myths will do that. Take it from one who knows. As I said here, the definition Henry gives of the seraphim -- "winged and/or fiery serpents" -- describes the fully awakened kundalini. Here is a breakdown of the Biblical context of this definition from the Wiki.

Seraphim, literally "burning ones", is the plural of "seraph", more properly sarap. The word sarap/seraphim appears three times in the Torah (Numbers 21:6-8, Deuteronomy 8:15) and four times in the Book of Isaiah (6:2-6, 14:29, 30:6). In Numbers and Deuteronomy the "seraphim" are serpents - the association of serpents as "burning ones" is possibly due to the burning sensation of the poison. ^[1] Isaiah also uses the word in close association with words to describes snakes (nahash, the generic word for snakes, in 14:29, and efeh, viper, in 30:6).

Isaiah's vision of seraphim in the Temple in Jerusalem is the sole instance in the Hebrew Bible of the word being used to describe celestial beings: there the winged "seraphim" attend God and have human attributes:^[2] "... I saw the Lord sitting upon a throne, high and lifted up; and His train filled the Hekhal (sanctuary). Above him stood the Seraphim; each had six wings; with two he covered his face, and with two he covered his feet, and with two he flew." (Isaiah 6:1–3) In Isaiah's vision the seraphim cry continually to each other, "Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord of hosts: the whole earth is full of His glory" (verses 2-3) before carrying out an act of purification for the prophet (verses 6-7). It is possible that these are winged snake-beings, but given that the word "seraphim" is not attached as an adjective or modifier to other snake-words ("nahash," etc.), as is the case in every other occurrence of the word, it is more probable that they are variants of the "fiery" lesser deities making up God's divine court.^[3]

"Seraphim" appear in the 2nd century B.C. Book of Enoch^[4] where they are designated as drakones (δράκονες "serpents"), and are mentioned, in conjunction with the cherubim as the heavenly creatures standing nearest to the throne of God. In the late 1st century A.D. Book of Revelation (iv. 4-8) they are described as being forever in God's presence and praising Him constantly: "Day and night with out ceasing they sing: 'Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty, who was and is and is to come.'" They appear also in the Christian Gnostic text On the Origin of the World, described as "dragon-shaped angels".^[5]

Prince Charles On Sacred Geometry

Crossposted from Reflections Journal.

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Well, color me gobsmacked. I've just added to my bookstore, of all things, a book by Prince Charles. I never thought I'd see the day. But this headline on The Huffington Post caught my eye: "Prince Charles Reflects on 'Sacred Geometry.'" Not only does he demonstrate a solid knowledge of sacred geometry but he is speaking to something that I have been saying for years; that if we constructed things according to the principles of sacred geometry, we would have far more efficient and durable systems. It's something that drives me mental, actually, on a daily basis. Little things like the way shampoo bottles tip over in the shower because the structure and weight don't account for changing center of gravity as you use up the shampoo. And, of course, on a grand scale everything from urban planning to architecture to farming would benefit from following the laws and principles of the natural world instead of fighting them. These greater world problems are what Prince Charles is addressing his book Harmony: A New Way of Looking at Our World.

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"Why Shamanism Now?" with Christina Pratt

Shamanic Inheritance with Jonathan Horwitz

The shaman's heart is an awakened heart. The path the shaman walks to free the heart offers a metaphor for each of us to find the courage to heal our broken heartedness and step into spiritual adulthood. "Contemporary life can break your heart on any day," explains shaman and host, Christina Pratt. "And from that wreckage most of us learn to stand in our own way, habitually, practically, and fearfully rationalizing why we remain disengage from our heart and the hearts of others." What the shaman knows is that while the broken heart is real, the story that we wrap around it is not. If we have the courage to unwrap the story and feel again, we return to reality. In reality the heart contains its own medicine to heal. Where the heart has been emptied by grief and loss, it can be freed to fill its great depths again. Where the heart has closed in fear and protection it can be opened by the wisdom of what truly matters. Where the heart is weak with the struggles of life it can find power in honoring the essence of life. Join us this week as we explore how to engage the medicine of the heart to heal and allow the energies of the heart to flow with passion in our lives.

This week's gust:
Jonathan Horwitz

Jonathan Horwitz has studied and worked with shamanism since 1972. For eight years he was on the staff of The Foundation for Shamanic Studies, USA. Jonathan has an M.A. in anthropology, and is a shamanic counselor (HMSC).

In 1986 Jonathan and Annette Høst began the Scandinavian Center for Shamanic Studies where the courses are centered on learning to use the ritual tools of shamanism, experiencing shamanism as a spiritual path, shamanic healing, and embracing the Circle and all of Nature. He also runs a small retreat centre, Åsbacka, in southern Sweden where her offers training in personal healing retreats, Sitting Out weekends and shamanic guidance for those who have previously worked with him.

Jonathan's focus on shamanism as a spiritual path centers around his own Three R's - Re-connecting with being alive, Re-discovering the spiritual power we are all born with, and Re-learning what it means to be a part of the whole. "The shamanic path is excellent for learning these things," he says. "And as soon as you feel you know, the Spirits show you something new... The road goes on forever."

Tuesday, December 14, 2010 at 11:00 AM Pacific

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Why Shamanism Now? on Co-Creator Network
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Horoscope for December 13-19

Cross-posted from Aloha Astro

Aries (March 21st - April 20th)
In the story The Emperor’s New Clothes, a child is not afraid to tell it like he sees it and declare that the Emperor hasn’t any clothes on at all. You are much like that child this week, Aries. You tell the truth as you see it and speak your mind. This may initially cause discomfort to both you and other people, but your personal integrity is important to you and you are willing to sacrifice your popularity to uphold truth. By week’s end, when the shock passes and the dust settles, people switch over to your point of view and want you to be Emperor.

Taurus (April 21st - May 20th)
You tend to be an easygoing, laid-back kind of person, Taurus. When your environment becomes uncomfortable for you or you feel you are losing control, you are not afraid to take action, though. Control is an issue for you now. It’s not so much an issue of someone else having control over you – it’s more an issue of past passivity and lack of self-control on your part. You are able to step back this week and see how your thoughts, demeanor, and exchanges with other people either support you and your goals or deplete your energy. You emerge from your self-examination wiser and wealthier.

Astrological Trends for December 13-19

Cross-posted from Aloha Astro

Your week begins on a mixed note Monday, December 13th, with the sun in eager Sagittarius square to the moon in dreamy Pisces. This emotional water sign moon joins expansive Jupiter and erratic Uranus, also in Pisces. What you would like to do or have happen may not be realistic or possible due to the challenging energy the square from the sun generates. Your intentions are sincere, but you may want to avoid overextending yourself or promising too much now while there is a planetary equivalent of a roadblock standing in the way of your ability to deliver. The communication and transportation planet, Mercury, is retrograde conjunct Pluto, the planet of intensity, and Mars, the planet of action, all in the cardinal earth sign of Capricorn. There is a strong practical and purpose-driven mental focus behind this Mercury retrograde that brings older plans to completion and works out kinks in existing structures or routines that stand in the way of perfection and success. On the downside, this Mercury retrograde can trigger outbursts of dictator-like temper tantrums, intolerant attitudes, and unexpected or inappropriate rudeness whenever people cross swords. Aggressive driving and road rage are possible, as well. You can look upon the challenges of this particular Mercury retrograde period as a test of character and maturity. An appropriate book to read, which can be of assistance this week, is Don Miguel Ruiz’s The Four Agreements. The tempering effect of a sextile between Venus in Scorpio and the Three Musketeers of Mars, Pluto, and Mercury in Capricorn is fading now. This sextile kept things polite, but now the gloves are off, so to speak, and people may become more blunt and forward when communicating.

WikiLeaks Pokes the Untouchable Vatican

Crossposted from Reflections Journal.

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If the priestly abuse scandal has taught us anything, it's that the Vatican values secrecy above all other principles. Enter WikiLeaks and a fresh wave of embarrassment for the Holy See. Amongst other disclosures comes a behind the scenes look at the Vatican's refusal to cooperate with Irish authorities in their abuse investigation.

The Vatican refused to allow its officials to testify before an Irish commission investigating the clerical abuse of children and was angered when they were summoned from Rome, US embassy cables released by WikiLeaks reveal.

Requests for information from the 2009 Murphy commission into sexual and physical abuse by clergy "offended many in the Vatican" who felt that the Irish government had "failed to respect and protect Vatican sovereignty during the investigations", a cable says.

Despite the lack of co-operation from the Vatican, the commission was able to substantiate many of the claims and concluded that some bishops had tried to cover up abuse, putting the interests of the Catholic church ahead of those of the victims. Its report identified 320 people who complained of child sexual abuse between 1975 and 2004 in the Dublin archdiocese.

Esoterica

Crossposted from Reflections Journal.

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Newly discovered da Vinci code in France:

A coded manuscript by Leonardo da Vinci has been discovered in a public library in the French city of Nantes.

The document was found after a journalist came across a reference to it in a Leonardo biography, the library said.

. . .

The text is written from right to left in Leonardo's trademark mirror-writing and has yet to be deciphered.

Tipping Points, Global Wars, and Secrets Revealed

Crossposted from Reflections Journal.

The Time Monks seem to be leaning towards the WikiLeaks phenomenon as a major component of the tipping point. George Ure posted a note from Clif High regarding the "global war" language that was in the forecast for this period. (I, for one, was just not feelin' either the Iran or the North Korea panic. I just haven't felt like either of those looming crises was about to go off. But that's just me.) Anyhoo, it turns out the linguistics were probably predicting the escalating situation with WikiLeaks.

Lingo-Lango: First thing to notice today is a note from Clif about how language is filling in all over the place about what we’ve had in linguistics as ‘globalrev’ and ‘secrets revealed’ for quite some time now…

“dude…the NBC news and the ABC news and CNN are all now using our ‘global war’ language! only it is about the cyber wars against MC and visa! but the linguistics are there.

this is a big ass hoooray IF and it is the BIG IF….it does not turn out to be a wide meme.

HOORAY, i think? later..”

The “Hooray!” reference?  Better in our work to get just words rather than glassmaking mushrooms popping off, so this is a good thing….really….

When Magic Lamps Aren't Enough

Crossposted from Reflections Journal.

You can always run your business like the Mafia.

The Secret brain trust loves to talk about how the universe is like a magic lamp. I've already addressed the supreme irony of relying on a genie analogy to explain how to get exactly what we want. (To sum up: Genies are tricksters.) But here we go again. Secret contributor Bob Proctor and an Australian vocalist named Michele Blood are off and running with a magic lamp of a book.

This revolutionary new book will open your consciousness to the truth of what wealth really is. This book could be the magic lamp you have been searching for!

This magic lamp comes complete with a brain pretzeling, mixed metaphor of a title: Become A Magnet To Money: Through The Sea Of Unlimited Consciousness. Proctor and Blood promise to teach, among other things, a successful marketing strategy. Here are some of the super exciting bullet points.

Sun Tricks

Crossposted from Reflections Journal.

The sun did something pretty today. But don't worry it's definitely NOT a solar flare or that nasty Carrington Event we've been on the lookout for.

First, there is very little danger to Earth from this event. Prominences like this tend to be local to the Sun, and collapse after a few hours. As far as I can tell, there are no flares or coronal mass ejections associated with this, which are what can hurt satellites and power grids here at home. So rest easy, and enjoy the beauty of this thing.

Cafe

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"Why Shamanism Now?" with Christina Pratt

The Shaman's Heart

The shaman's heart is an awakened heart. The path the shaman walks to free the heart offers a metaphor for each of us to find the courage to heal our broken heartedness and step into spiritual adulthood. "Contemporary life can break your heart on any day," explains shaman and host, Christina Pratt. "And from that wreckage most of us learn to stand in our own way, habitually, practically, and fearfully rationalizing why we remain disengage from our heart and the hearts of others." What the shaman knows is that while the broken heart is real, the story that we wrap around it is not. If we have the courage to unwrap the story and feel again, we return to reality. In reality the heart contains its own medicine to heal. Where the heart has been emptied by grief and loss, it can be freed to fill its great depths again. Where the heart has closed in fear and protection it can be opened by the wisdom of what truly matters. Where the heart is weak with the struggles of life it can find power in honoring the essence of life. Join us this week as we explore how to engage the medicine of the heart to heal and allow the energies of the heart to flow with passion in our lives.

Tuesday, December 7, 2010 at 11:00 AM Pacific

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Why Shamanism Now? on Co-Creator Network
Questions? Comments? Call: 1-512-772-1938

All episodes are now available in the iTunes Podcast Library.

Horoscope for December 6-12

Cross-posted from Aloha Astro

Aries (March 21st - April 20th)
The planets are keeping you extremely active now, Aries. If you are an Aries sun sign or have Aries on the ascendant, issues bigger than yourself and your immediate surroundings are impacting you strongly. The only time you have for yourself seems to be the time when you are asleep and even sleep is more active now, with periods of interrupted sleep, highly active dreams, or lucid dreaming. So much of your energy is flowing out and being received by people in your intimate relationships, career, friendships, and groups that you may be stretched to the utmost limit by the intensity of this week’s planets. Before your week begins, make a schedule that includes quiet time by yourself for recharging your batteries so that you can continue your high-octane output without a crash and burn consequence.

Taurus (April 21st - May 20th)
Partnerships play a vital role this week, Taurus. Depending on your own relationship status, you may find yourself thinking or talking about serious aspects of partnership – the work of it, the shared resources, and the plan for the future. Because marriage and divorce are just two sides of the same coin, the thoughts and discussions could be about one or the other. Business partnerships are a marriage, too. You may be working on a solid business plan or negotiating for proper recognition or compensation in exchange for your contributions to an existing business or company. Look to friends and groups that are aligned with your beliefs and values to help guide you toward success in career. Ask them what they think you excel at and how they would use your own skill sets and talents if they had them.

Astrological Trends for December 6-12

Cross-posted from Aloha Astro

The energy is high and rambunctious on Monday, December 6th, as the moon in Sagittarius joins an energized Mars, also in the fire sign of Sagittarius. With the sun in Sagittarius, as well, you may be feeling restless and eager to get things accomplished today. A supportive sextile between the sun and Saturn in Libra gives you the ability to use precise planning and strategy as you direct the expansive Sagittarius fire energy like a laser toward your goals. The challenging square of Mars in Sagittarius and Jupiter conjunct Uranus in Pisces keeps you on your toes. Not all things will flow smoothly and this could cause you to feel impatient. A positive effect of this particular aspect is a heightened interest in sex and romantic pursuit. A pleasant sextile between the moon conjunct Mars in Sagittarius and Neptune conjunct Chiron in Aquarius makes romance mysterious, alluring, and exciting. Venus in sultry Scorpio exchanges a harmonious sextile to Mercury conjunct Pluto, both in Capricorn. Your thoughts are passionate and you are not afraid to express them now. Later this evening, the moon moves into earthy Capricorn, creating a lineup of planets joining forces for a potent locomotive of energy. Mars in Sagittarius blends optimistic action with the emotional seriousness of the moon in Capricorn, the determined mindset of Mercury in Capricorn, and the intensifying effect of Pluto in Capricorn. For Sagittarius and Capricorn sun sign people, this can be a very busy week, indeed. You may not be a Sagittarius or Capricorn, but you do have those two signs somewhere in your natal chart. Check your own natal chart to see what areas of life will be hopping for you this week. The new moon of December 5th in the sign of Sagittarius will still be felt as this week unfolds. Today through Thursday of this week are important days for you to take action, direct projects, initiate plans, tie up loose ends, and delegate tasks to others clearly before Mercury goes retrograde on Friday. Imagine the new moon as the kickoff. Now you are running with the ball, but soon the planets will be gaining on you and you could be intercepted and tackled if you don’t take advantage of the extra hustle the beginning of this week delivers.

Revealing Secrets

Crossposted from Reflections Journal.

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In terms of the earth giving up her secrets, which I discussed here, this looks like what I was waiting for. Wikileaks is promising to out a major financial institution. If that information is revelatory and shocking and also embarrasses some governmental body, that would be in line with what I was sensing.  (The other possibility that I get an intuitive hit on could be something previously unknown regarding the torture scandal.) Obviously the recent Wikileaks dump has greater implications but none of it really speaks the gravity of revelation I was sensing. In fact, none of what I've read thus far has been terribly surprising. It does, though, facilitate the pattern that to my mind ties into the tipping point. That is the crumbling of international relations which is one of the major themes that is emerging. Having the internal communication of our diplomatic efforts exposed doesn't help. Bearing in mind the failure of the G20 summit to bring assurance of the dollar remaining as the reserve currency, the US is losing its grip on international hegemony. The implications of that are fairly staggering.

Cafe

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"Why Shamanism Now?" with Christina Pratt

What do you ask a shaman?

Can shamanism help with mental illness? What about my depression? Am I cheating myself out of healing by taking my pharmaceuticals? Can you heal my father's dementia? Does shamanic healing work long distance? How do I "pay the rent" with powerful psychoactive plants and stay in good relationship with the spirit world? Why does gratitude matter? Tune in this week for answers to these and many other listener questions. Shaman and host, Christina Pratt, explains, "Many of the questions we receive are thoughtful and complex. They come in after the shows, via email. This show is dedicated to circling back around to answer many of them." We will clarify what a shaman means when they say that experiential learning "writes on your bones" and why that matters. We will explore the difference between "entering the Void" and moving in the Taoistic nature of things. Finally, we will look at how shamans understand that while we are not our body, the fact that we are here in a body is essential to living our soul's purpose and doing what we have come into this life to do.

Tuesday, November 30, 2010 at 11:00 AM Pacific

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Horoscope for November 29 - December 5

Cross-posted from Aloha Astro

Aries (March 21st - April 20th)
Relationships, both personal and professional, are your primary concern this week, Aries. The personal variety appears to be easier and more enjoyable than the professional, but there can be a mutually rewarding business partnership that can be negotiated during the middle of your busy week. Negotiations will be another main topic. You seek and share information and utilize the power of the mind and persuasive speech to further your goals. Some may say you have a hidden agenda and they would be correct. Where you stand in life now – especially career-wise – feels like a rest stop, not a final destination. You may not even be consciously aware of the goal, but you feel deep down inside that something new, bigger, and better is possible. The power of future potential drives you now and you use your people and leadership skills to sway groups. The new moon on Sunday prompts a serious conversation with a lover or partner. It is important to you that long-range dreams are in harmony and you want the assurance of a commitment now. You want a partner to understand that the time you take to advance your own knowledge and career benefits not just you, but the relationship, as well.

Taurus (April 21st - May 20th)
Your job description may become unclear this week, Taurus. The planets indicate that you may currently be a jack of all trades in your work environment. Experimental, creative, or temporary assignments spring up like mushrooms now. Powerful passionate thoughts and words are flowing. The “I love you – do you love me?” conversations or the zeal you express over a subject close to your heart make those around you roll their eyes, but they have to admit that you’re a happier, more relaxed and flexible Bull when the love light is in your eyes. An on-the-job romance is possible now or joining forces with your mate to begin a business is another possibility now. Material gains can flow from a business partnership, marriage, or investments with the arrival of new moon energy on Sunday. If you are single and decide to choose just one person from among several potential partners, you may break a few hopeful hearts. Not everyone attracted to you now wants to hear, “Let’s be friends.”

Astrological Trends for November 29 - December 5

Cross-posted from Aloha Astro

The focus on the holiday season increases on Monday, November 29th, as the sun progresses in the merry fire sign of Sagittarius. A semi-sextile between the moon in detail-oriented Virgo and Saturn in Libra turns your attention to holiday planning. Mercury, the planet of communication, conjunct Mars, the planet of action, in Sagittarius forms helpful sextiles to both Venus in Libra and Neptune conjunct Chiron in Aquarius. This energy promotes the feeling of goodwill to mankind and you may find yourself wanting to do more for others than for yourself now. The Mercury/Mars conjunction in Sagittarius exchanges difficult energy through a square aspect to Jupiter and Uranus conjunct in Pisces. This aspect is in effect until next week and because it acts like an impediment to growth, change, and the ability to put plans fully into action, it can feel similar to a Mercury retrograde period. On the mundane level, you can expect gasoline prices to increase. Late this afternoon, around rush hour, the moon in Virgo squares both Mercury/Mars in Sagittarius and opposes Jupiter/Uranus in Pisces. With Mercury and Mars already squaring Jupiter/Uranus, we now have an awkward T-square in mutable signs, creating mental stress that can affect transportation and communication. Please be considerate and cautious during your evening commute and patient in your exchanges with others while the planetary energy is serving up a helping of discontent, irritability, and frustration. In the evening, the moon quincunx Neptune conjunct Chiron in Aquarius lifts hopes and moods. It feels good to be home. Connecting with friends online, playing games, or watching a movie is a relaxing end to a busy day.

Mr. Deity on Good, Evil, and David Caruso

Crossposted from Reflections Journal.

This was just the kind of chuckle I needed this morning. Mr. Deity figures out how to let himself off the hook for all the evil in the world.

Happy Thanksgiving

New James Arthur Ray Offer: Health, Wealth, and Vitality!

Crossposted from Reflections Journal.

Hat tip to the Salty Droid for the most recent addition to the James Arthur Ray audacity files. A while ago I posted on Ray's inability (unwillingness?) to reimburse people for seminars he never gave... due to the whole baking people to death in a sweat lodge fall-out.

Am I the only one who sees some irony in someone offering to "mentor" people in "Harmonic Wealth®" because he can't afford to pay them back the money he owes them?

As the Droid points out, nowhere in the email is it explicitly stated that accepting the offered program voids your right to sue for, or in any other sense expect, recompense for the canceled events. For that information you have to look at the disclaimers page which is about as clear as most legalese. The Droid, being an attorney, has helpfully zeroed in on the relevant passage to make that clearer. Unfortunately, I doubt the majority of Ray's students read the Salty Droid.

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"Why Shamanism Now?" with Christina Pratt

Shamanic Healing for Animals

Have you ever wondered if shamanic healing might help your animal or pet? Join us this week as host and shaman, Christina Pratt speaks with Carla Meeske, the shaman who pioneered Shamanic Method for Animal Communication. Shamanic healing with animals is the same in many ways as it is with humans. Animals lose soul parts and take on invasive energies, for example, just like humans do. At the same time, animals are different. They have animal tribes with members in the physical world and the invisible world, deeply interwoven soul stories with their humans, and they don't carry ancestral illnesses as humans do. Shamanic healing for animals gives the humans a way to know what a pet feels and needs to bring an animal relief. Often this healing involves giving the human rich advice from the animal. Shamanic skills also give humans a way to attend compassionately and completely to the dying and death of a beloved pet. Join us as we explore the rich and extraordinary gifts that come to us from our animals and their shamanic healing.

This week's guest:
Carla Meeske

Carla Meeske (formerly Carla Person) has been offering shamanism and animal communication for clients across the globe since 1998. A published author and acclaimed instructor, she teaches Shamanism through www.animalspiritnetwork.com. Carla teaches through distance education and live workshops. Her courses are geared toward healing animals, but the path involves deep personal transformation.

Carla pioneered the Shamanic Method for Animal Communication. She has been a professional shamanist for over 10 years, beginning her Shamanic studies in the mid 1980s and graduating from the Foundation for Shamanic Studies 3 Year Advanced Training in 2000.
Carla's publications include, The Calico Shaman: True Tales of Animal Communication, Speak to My Heart, and articles for Shamanism and Sacred Hoop Magazine. Her work has been described in Teaching Your Horse to Overcome Fears. Carla has presented her work at the Society for Shamanic Practitioners Conference in 2006 and the International Alliance for Animal Therapy and Healing Conference 2004.

Tuesday, November 23, 2010 at 11:00 AM Pacific

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Horoscope for November 22-28

Cross-posted from Aloha Astro

Aries (March 21st - April 20th)
The moon is supporting you in the flow of holiday happenings this week, Aries. Running errands, shopping, preparing your home, spending time with the family, relaxing over the weekend with entertaining or creative pursuits all happen in a logical, sequential way, making it easy for you to go on automatic pilot while you sit with your koan. Do you know what a koan is? It is a story, statement, or question the meaning of which cannot be understood by rational thinking, but may be found through intuition. A koan is often given to a meditation student. You have a koan in your life now. A brief glimmer of understanding breaks through midweek, but the true solution or enlightenment will take approximately two more weeks of deep inner searching. You may think you are ready to move ahead with something, but until you know it is already a done deal, nothing will take hold properly. Love feels more Universal and less personal now.

Taurus (April 21st - May 20th)
Avoid impulsive moves with money, investments, or property at the start of the week, Taurus. There is a short-lived, but potentially destructive, aspect pattern that leaves your money vulnerable and your judgment faulty on Tuesday. You can easily charm customers and increase sales now and you enjoy working cooperatively with groups of people. If you are in a retail business that looks forward to Black Friday every year, you can anticipate good numbers. The planets are influencing people to shop enthusiastically the day after Thanksgiving. Your own Turkey Day looks full of good food and happy family moments that become fond memories. Avoid getting on a soap box over a personal passion or cause and avoid engaging in debates with anyone over their viewpoints and you should sail through the week with more pleasure than discomfort. Take in a movie or a quick getaway this weekend.

Gemini (May 21st - June 21st)
Me, me, me is what the moon wants you to look at as your week begins. How do you feel about your relationships, your work, and you – and are you experiencing life as you would like it to be? Mix a serious attitude with pie-in-the-sky wishes and you can bring at least one of your dreams into reality. Some Twins eager to increase income may be working on Thanksgiving and Black Friday. Your partner shouldn’t mind – he or she may be working, too. If you are off from work, it looks like you will be out early with the other shoppers in the wee hours on Friday to get the best deals at the stores. The family feeling that Thanksgiving brings catches up with you later in the week when you may get together with relatives and friends for some potentially emotional reunions. Gratitude is an ever-present awareness this week.

Astrological Trends for November 22-28

Cross-posted from Aloha Astro

It’s off to a fresh week with a spring in your step on Monday, November 22nd, as the sun enters the feisty fire sign of Sagittarius. The moon in the youthfully curious air sign of Gemini feels light and bubbly – a nice change from the earthy weight of the full moon in Taurus, which is behind you now. To make matters even happier and more delicious, Venus has gone direct in Libra and Jupiter has gone direct in Pisces. Venus and Jupiter are known as the Lesser and Greater Benefics, meaning they bring good things. If you have been doing everything correctly, but haven’t been able to manifest something or achieve your intended results, these two kind and generous planets will assist you now. A pleasant trine aspect between the moon in Gemini and Saturn in Libra helps you make favorable decisions, solidify plans, and have productive conversations with people. Later this evening, the moon opposing Mercury and Mars conjunct in Sagittarius can curb excessive enthusiasm or put you in the mood for some debate. This is the kind of aspect that can tempt you to stage a practical joke or play devil’s advocate just to needle someone. The overall energy of today favors joking and playfulness, but take care not to cross the line between humor and hurt.

Iconoclasts, Stigmata Martyrs, and William Henry

Crossposted from Reflections Journal.

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I have previously expressed my amusement that so many of the greatest proponents of the ten commandments consistently violate the second. The most devout Christians I've known through the years have surrounded themselves with religious imagery. They bow and pray before crosses. They also wear them. Catholics, in particular, are heavily invested in statues of saints and the Blessed Virgin, some of which are believed to have healing properties and even exude divine unction. (Yes. In many cases it turns out to be a coating of air-born cooking oils most likely caused by frying a lot of zeppoles but we don't need to go there.)

You shall not make for yourself a carved image, or any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth; you shall not bow down to them nor serve them. For I, the Lord your God, am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers on the children to the third and fourth generations of those who hate Me, but showing mercy to thousands, to those who love Me and keep My Commandments.

The bottom line: Most Christians -- and Catholics in particular -- are idolators. The prohibition in the second commandment was probably a reaction against Egyptian practices and useful for stamping out pagan practices as Christianity expanded. And as I've pointed out previously, the iconoclast movements have long since been abandoned by Jews and Christians, making the second commandment a sort of vestigial relic.

Holiday Shopping with Astrology

Cross-posted from Aloha Astro

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The biggest holiday shopping day of the year, Black Friday, is just around the corner. You know the retailers will be offering fantastic bargains, but do you know what to get for the people on your gift list? Astrology can help you find the perfect gift. The recommendations below are based on sun sign personality traits. The sun is vibrant and masculine in nature, expressing sun sign character traits strongly for most people. The moon is subtle and feminine in nature and moon sign personality often expresses more strongly in a woman than her sun sign. If you want to make a woman happy, choose a gift for her based on her moon sign rather than her sun sign, unless her personality strongly expresses her sun sign traits. There are many free chart services online, including the one on my website, which make it easy for you to quickly and accurately find sun and moon signs for anyone with a birth date.

Aries loves the first of anything, whether it is a new video game, the first issue of a coin or stamp, or a signed first edition print or book. A scrapbook all about them; a portrait of them, their pet, or their home; or a gift certificate for something they’ve never done before, like a rock climbing lesson, makes them feel special. Monogrammed items and diamonds speak to them of luxury and wealth. In fashion, they are drawn to black and white together and accents of fire-engine red. Aries rules the head and they often are drawn to hats, scarves, headbands, and hair accessories that draw attention to the head or face. A gift certificate to their favorite styling salon is appreciated.

Taurus is an easy sign to please because they revel in all the senses. If it looks good, tastes good, sounds good, or feels good, Taurus says it is good! They have a keen aesthetic sense and know quality when they see it. Ask them what they want; they’ll be glad to tell you. Both sexes tend to enjoy wearing gold jewelry and colorful stones. Music or tickets to a live performance are a hit, as is a gift certificate to a fine restaurant or their favorite gourmet market. Some Bulls are collectors or love antiques – check to see what is already on display in their home. The weight and texture of wood and stone appeals to their earthiness and gives you a springboard for more gift ideas.

Watching California

Crossposted from Reflections Journal.

I noticed when I opened my start page last night that there were two more minor quakes centered in Baja California, Mexico. I have earthquake feeds on my start page. It has seemed to me for a while that there has been a sharp uptick this year in California quakes, particularly centered in Baja, where a big 7.2 quake shook the entire region last spring. So I did a bit of googling to see what I could find. I found that there's been a sharp uptick in Baja centered quakes this year. Here is a graph:

As per my recent post, I am increasingly concerned about the potential for major quake activity in California. I also noticed this morning that there was 3.2 in LA in the wee hours. It seems like every time I look at my feeds, something is rumbling in the California area. There is a school of thought that says that lots of minor quakes relieve pressure and reduce the chances of a larger quake. I'd like to think that this is so and that the stomach turning pressure I feel about that area will be relieved through a series of 3 point quakes. But if this guy is right, all these little tremors are more likely predictive of an impending quake of some magnitude. Sometimes quakes actually up the pressure on other fault lines and cause more quakes, as indeed happened following the big Baja quake. As they've recently discovered 50 more fault lines in California, that could another point of concern.

I'm not a seismologist. I'm just a psychic who has been very troubled by what I'm picking up in readings and dreams. I'm not saying the big one is necessarily on its way. I'm saying the system is blinking red and to please, please pay attention to your preparedness, animal behavior, and your own instincts and intuition.

Cafe

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"Why Shamanism Now?" with Christina Pratt

Tom Cowan: Conflux of Power

Tom Cowan joins host, Christina Pratt, to explore the art of "standing in the conflux of power." This traditional role of the shaman involved moving between forces, holding dynamic tensions, and finding balance in opposition. Tom joins us to explore how shamans practice this art today-or need to-when working in contemporary waking states of chaos like in war and large scale disasters, whether natural or man-made. Tom will share the timeless value in remembering ancient wisdom and embracing sovereignty as we seek to be wise and effective in the face of life's challenges. Tom is a much loved teacher, an internationally respected author of many books, lecturer, and a founding board member of the SSP. He joins us for the next show in the Society of Shamanic Practitioners sponsored interview series where we explore how contemporary shamans are meeting the challenge of their world where the relations of things-the living and the dead, the humans and nature, and Western Way and the spirit world-are profoundly out of balance. It is the ancient role of the shaman in all cultures to tend the balance of things. How are these shaman meeting this extraordinary need today?

This week's guest:
Tom Cowan

Tom Cowan is a deeply loved teacher and an internationally respected, author, lecturer, and tour leader. As a shamanic practitioner Tom specializes in Celtic visionary and healing techniques, while core shamanism continues to be Tom's primary spiritual practice. In his teachings Tom combines traditional European spirit lore with universal core shamanism to create spiritual practices that can heal and enrich one's own life and the lives of others. He is the author of many books, in particular one of the best books written on shamanism as a daily practice, Shamanism as a Spiritual Practice for Daily Life.

Tom's lifelong interest in mystical traditions led him to develop excellent tours to Ireland or Scotland to practice shamanism at sacred sites and work with the spirits of the land. Tom is also a minister in the Circle of the Sacred Earth, a church of animism dedicated to shamanic principles and practices. Today he lives in New York's Hudson River Valley where he offers training workshops, spiritual retreats, and healing sessions for groups and individuals.

Tuesday, November 16, 2010 at 11:00 AM Pacific

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Why Shamanism Now? on Co-Creator Network
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Tipping Point Update

Crossposted from Reflections Journal.

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Those who were waiting for drama yesterday were probably disappointed. Those of us who were looking for clues to significant events that could cause a couple of months worth of falling dominoes, less so. In terms of news reports, what jumped out at me yesterday was a ratcheting up of concern about Ireland's economy which appears to be imploding. It feels an awful lot like what happened in Iceland but with more of that pulling of a thread that starts to unravel a much larger tapestry kind of urgency. So I'd keep an eye on what happens there. Maybe it's because I still feel that the economic component to the tipping point is primary. But that's just me. I can't speak for Time Monks Clif High or George Ure. They speak well enough for themselves. Ure has posted his take on what events fall under the umbrella here:

Did the ‘tipping point’ begin on Sunday morning? Yes.  Not only did we have lots of release language surrounding the release of Aung San Suu Kyi of Burma/Myanmar, but there was the release of  Paul & Rachel Chandler who had been held by Somali pirates for 388 days.

Then – almost exactly on schedule – time-wise – we’ve had a big outburst of earthquakes in the area south of Yemen and northeast of Djibouti.  And no, we’re not talking 2′s and 3′s.  This is an area which hasn’t been seismically active and in the past 30-hours it has suddenly popped off – not with one or two - but with 40 quakes on the USGS site.

Meantime, in Indonesia, the Child of Krakatau (Krakatoa) has been active every five minutes. 

Horoscope for November 15-21

Cross-posted from Aloha Astro

Aries (March 21st - April 20th)
The outer world activity trend continues for you this week, Aries, with the planets bringing you relationships, learning, teaching or traveling, friends or an organization to deal with. Most of your week is productive and pleasant; however, throughout the entire week there is an issue involving a friend, group, or organization that may knock you off your stride. You may not be able to maintain the friendship or affiliation any longer or there may be an element to the situation that places you in the position of victim, savior, or martyr. There is a part of you that knows best what to do. It is a situation that requires an inner knowing – not thinking. Remove yourself from the situation and go within for guidance. Psychic skills are incredibly accurate now and odd synchronicities may occur several times a day. The full moon this weekend will bring the situation with the friend or group to a head. It also highlights values, finances, investments, insurance, and any partnership where you have shared resources, such as a business or marriage. The full moon will show you where you must eliminate fear, doubt, and negativity to bring things into balance.

Taurus (April 21st - May 20th)
You have the support of friends or a group who encourage you to grow and expand, Taurus. A challenge for you this week may come from a partner who feels neglected. They may think you are either too career-driven right now or that you are being taken advantage of at work. If you are not in a relationship, then the issue may be that you are neglecting your own needs at this time. While you do have planets pushing you to work hard, expand your business, and advance in your career, there is more to life than work. The full moon this weekend is in the sign of Taurus, putting you in the hot seat. It will make you look at yourself, relationship, and career and you will have to find a way to manage all three. Before the moon arrives in your sign, it may take you for a two-day ride through one of those dark nights of the soul. This time, you have advance notice, so you can gather some light affirmations to bring with you.

Astrological Trends for November 15-21

Cross-posted from Aloha Astro

Your week begins with the moon in the dreamy, intuitive sign of Pisces on Monday, November 15th. It exchanges some challenging energy with Mars, the planet of action, conjunct Mercury, the planet of the mind, in Sagittarius. Taking impetuous action without careful thought can result in disappointment because your expectations are greater than what reality can deliver now. This aspect can also make for misunderstandings between people due to the scattering quality of the energy. A supportive quincunx between the moon and Saturn in Libra helps bring you back down to earth and reminds you to pay attention and consider both sides of a situation. The sun in sensitive Scorpio trine to Jupiter conjunct Uranus in Pisces enhances intuition, sensuality, and risk-taking. All this week, the sun in Scorpio is involved in a challenging square with Neptune/Chiron conjunct in Aquarius. I believe this square will manifest itself in various nuances as your week unfolds. The key word that comes to mind is disappointment. As the moon approaches full, an undercurrent of dissatisfaction or a Divine discontent builds along with the full moon energy thanks to the sun/Neptune square. Mars is conjunct Mercury in Sagittarius sextile Saturn in Libra, giving you added mental strength throughout your week. The awkward aspect between the moon and Mars/Mercury passes by this afternoon – whew, it’s safe to speak again! Later this evening, the Pisces moon joins the Jupiter/Uranus conjunction, activating a Venus in Libra quincunx, which can step up your desire for romance and maybe some kinky or adventurous love. Venus is also trine to the Neptune/Chiron conjunction, increasing romantic longing; however, the challenging aspect between the sun and Neptune/Chiron indicates you may have a mild disappointment in matters of the heart or things may not be exactly as you wish them to be.

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"Why Shamanism Now?" with Christina Pratt

Choosing a Shamanic Teacher

How do we choose a shamanic teacher? And do we choose, or do the teachers select us? What should you look for? What are the signs that there might be problems lying just under the surface? And what if no teacher comes when the student is ready? Join host and shaman, Christina Pratt, as we navigate these tricky waters. Entering into shamanic training is not a decision to take lightly. Authentic training will take years and will come with no guarantees, which means that your relationship with your teacher will be a long-term relationship. How do you discern the difference between charisma and the passion of a teacher who comes from the heart? True teachers connect us to rivers. They connect us to a flow of information that existed before the teacher and will continue to flow after we are gone. The purpose of a teacher is to help us to use the river to create a more essential, authentic expression of our self. Learning from a really good teacher is like being carried in the current of a river directly into the self.

Tuesday, November 9, 2010 at 11:00 AM Pacific

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Why Shamanism Now? on Co-Creator Network
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