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November 2012 Magazine

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Root working The Hedge Witch way. The Mulberry That Came To Me
Posted by Harobed

Every project has its beginnings and mine for the most part come to me dirt covered and humble.during the spring my buddy Kendal had to pull a few invading 5-6 foot Mulberry trees from his property.Armed with his spade he popped them out of the ground to discover that 3 seasons of drought ,overcrowding and being bush hogged had given a few of them slender trunks and swollen /contorted roots.Those he kept and brought to me.Now most people would look with fleeting interest and then toss these sad things away.But I saw nice sized besom handles .So I set the three out at my doorstep to dry,with roots swollen such as this I knew the slender trunks would cure much quicker than they would so I had to be patient.One of the things time has taught me is don't trim now and regret it later so other than brushing off most of the dirt I left them intact to dry.With this one I didn't think to take pictures of the root before I started working with it but it was a mess, just like the one above which happens to be next on my list !

I choose my first for two reasons .... 1> It had a wound that was always going to be visible and I love a battle scarred warrior! ..... 2> I glimpsed something else.It was just a glimmer but I knew some creature was there and had been from the very beginning seed. I saw what I thought.... might be.....maybe...... antlers lol I started off by trimming off all the hairy little capillary roots next I trimmed the trunk of the treeling neat ,close and free of the branch nubs Kendal had left behind. last step here was ,with a dry scrub brush I knocked off any remaining dirt and thoroughly rubbed it down with a piece of rough burlap . I knew I wanted the root as the focal of this piece so I started from there.The outer layer of the root was akin to the thick peel of an orange only woody.By the time I had finished "peeling away the mask of calloused and swollen skin the creature had revealed itself. It started by showing me the shape of its head flowing down into along graceful neck that ended with a proud jutting chest.

I was captivated I didn't need to carve or manipulate the wood in anyway "The Stag" had always been there!I wanted to fade the peeled wood back into the trunk that had evolved from it ,so I peeled a bit farther.

As I worked on this the Mulberry revealed one other secret .The colors of the Stag were all present!There was the rusty red of his coat and ivory white of his chest.Leaving the bark on in places gives the sense of glimpsing a deer as it slips through wooded shadows.

Now I was ready to sand . I do all my sanding by hand ,this allows me to feel nuances in the wood that would otherwise be lost.It took me three nights to sand this and I'll sand it at least once more.I sanded with a fine grain paper from the start and each evening after sanding I oiled it before putting it away. Wood workers hold many opinions on the proper oil for wood and will caution you on the use of any other.I however am not oiling wood for the same purpose.They are oiling to capture a look or tone of color.I'm oiling to insaturate the wood with energy.

All my oils are made by my hand and I pair the oil used with the wood according to the properties both hold.This brings me back to the same thread that runs through the heart of all my blogs.....Know your materials.If you don't or are unsure Research is your friend! If your not going to take the time to know what your working with then its best to just not oil the wood at all.Mixing the wrong properties together will only muddle the energies and reduce the potency of your crafting. Mulberry is one of the best woods for Astral projection and prophetic dreams so the oil Ive used is a divination oil made of Mugwort , Cedar ,Lavender, Peony root ,Hydrangea & Iris.Because of the Stag spirit I had uncovered I added a pinch of Powdered Antler and a dash of Ground Snake Skin to feed the spirit in the wood.As you can see in the picture below I rub it on "floaters" and all ,then wipe it down. Eventually the regular use of oils such as this will change the color of your wood but it will strengthen the wood's metaphysical energies so for me its a fair trade off. My project is over for now ,the Mulberry rests on my altar and this little lesson on hedge witchery is over. Later on once I have harvested what I need This will become a very witchy besom with talismen of antler and stone ;)

Listening to our elders

Posted by Willow Raine

The Elderly In tribal cultures, the elderly play an important role. They are the keepers of the tribe's memories and the holders of wisdom. As such, the elderly are honored and respected members of tribes. In many modern cultures, however, this is often not the case. Many elderly people say that they feel ignored, left out, and disrespected. This is a sad commentary on modernization, but it doesn't have to be this way. We can change this situation by taking the time to examine our attitudes about the elderly and taking action. Modern societies tend to be obsessed with the ideas of newness, youth, and progress. Scientific studies tell us how to do everything - from the way we should raise our kids to what we need to eat for breakfast. As a result, the wisdom that is passed down from older generations is often disregarded. Of course, grandparents and retired persons have more than information to offer the world. Their maturity and experience allows for a larger perspective of life, and we can learn a lot from talking to elderly people. It's a shame that society doesn't do more to allow our older population to continue to feel productive for the rest of their lives, but you can help to make change. Perhaps you could help facilitate a mentorship program that would allow children to be tutored by the elderly in retirement homes. The elderly make wonderful storytellers, and creating programs where they could share their real life experiences with others is another way to educate and inspire other generations. Take stock of your relationships with the elderly population. Maybe you don't really listen to them because you hold the belief that their time has passed and they are too old to understand what you are going through. You may even realize that you don't have any relationships with older people. Try to understand why and how our cultural perception of the elderly influences the way you perceive them. Look around you and reach out to someone who is elderly - even if you are just saying hello and making small talk. Resolve to be more aware of the elderly. They are our mentors, wise folk, and the pioneers that came before us and paved the way for our future.

How To Find Beauty In Life....

Posted by Marjabella Le Fey
Life is mostly made up of routines and patterns. Every day we act them out and they are what make up the bulk of our lives. Many of us live according to a socially acceptable template, within the realm of safety, while living repetitively and dreaming of ways to escape. Every day events and what we would commonly classify as normal, is often extraordinary if you just take a closer look. even if youre not exactly where youd like to be, that doesnt mean that life right now cant be beautiful or enjoyable. And the best part is, you dont have to do anything to make it beautiful. It already is beautiful. ~Jonathan Mead~

~All you have to do is open your eyes.~ Being an empathic soul, healer and whisperer of words. I am blessed with the ability to not only feel others but to feel, see, taste and touch that which goes beyond the visible.. What lies within the depths of music and imagery. Becoming one with the vibrations and energy I feel and see upon lyrics, tones, palettes of color . As I leave my body and enter magical worlds that are laid out before me. Entwining with orchestrated notes that dance in everflowing waves of beauty . Weaving my very core into stillshot frames of artistic design..taking me into the Beauty Of Life...It is the ability to step into other worlds that graces my heart and soul with the passion love desire..the essence of being that I hold dear..One I shall forever carry..as I dance to the rhythm of this most wonderful universe. Upon white sands my spirit is free to become one with all.....May you find that beauty in life that stirs your heart and soul to dance, to sing. To step beyond the invisible.. Much Love oxBellaox<3

The Craft
Discussion night with Foxxy
This Class is Weekly Classes Every Tuesday, the class is taught in a live chat box and it is a time for people to share and learn. Basic Topics taught each week and then a time of Q & A after class is finished. All classes are then written up and put up in group for all group members to read over. Please come along and join in this is an amazing chance to learn with others

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The Zen of Cat (Story by Jim Willis)

Posted by Loraeli_MoonStone
The Man was very sad. He knew that the Cat's days were numbered. The doctor had said there wasn't anything more that could be done, that he should take the Cat home and make him as comfortable as possible. The man stroked the Cat on his lap and sighed. The Cat opened his eyes, purred and looked up at the Man. A tear rolled down the Man's cheek and landed on the Cat's forehead. The Cat gave him a slightly annoyed look. "Why do you cry, Man?" the Cat asked. "Because you can't bear the thought of losing me? Because you think you can never replace me?" The Man nodded "yes." "And where do you think I'll be when I leave you?" the Cat asked. The Man shrugged helplessly. "Close your eyes, Man," the Cat said. The Man gave him a questioning look, but did as he was told. "What color are my eyes and fur?" the Cat asked. "Your eyes are gold and your fur is a rich, warm brown," the Man replied. "And where is my fur the darkest?" the Cat asked. "It is darkest along your back, your tail, your legs, nose and ears," the Man said. "And where is it that you most often see me?" asked the Cat. "I see you...on the kitchen windowsill watching the birds...on my favorite chair...on my desk lying on the papers I need...on the pillow next to my head at night." The cat nodded. "Can you see me in all of those places now, even though your eyes are shut?" the Cat asked.

"Yes, of course. I've seen you there for years," the Man said. "Then, whenever you wish to see me, all you must do is close your eyes," said the Cat. "But you won't really be here," the Man said sadly. "Oh, really?" said the Cat. "Pick up that piece of string from the floor - there, my 'toy.'" The Man opened his eyes, then reached over and picked up the string. It was about two feet long and the Cat had been able to entertain himself for hours with it. "What is it made of?" the Cat asked. "It appears to be made of cotton," the Man said. "Which comes from a plant?" the Cat asked. "Yes," said the Man. "From just one plant, or from many?" "From many cotton plants," the Man answered. "And in the same soil from which grow the cotton plants, it would be possible that other plants and flowers would grow? A rose could grow alongside of the cotton, yes?" asked the Cat. "Yes, I'm sure it would be possible," the Man said. "And all of the plants would feed from the same soil and drink the same rain, would they not?" the Cat asked. "Yes, they would," said the Man. "Then all of the plants, rose and cotton, would be very similar on the inside, even if they appeared outwardly very different," said the Cat. The Man nodded his head in agreement, but didn't see what that had to do with the present situation. "Now, that piece of string," said the Cat, "is that the only piece of string ever made of cotton?" "No, of course it isn't," said the Man, "it was part of a ball of twine." "And do you know where all of the other pieces of string are now, and all of the balls of twine?" asked the Cat.

"No, I don't...that would be impossible," said the Man. "But even though you do not know where they are, you believe they exist. And even though some of the string is with you, and other pieces of string are elsewhere...even though some pieces of string are short and others are long, and even though your ball of twine is not the only one in the world...you would agree that all the string is related?" the Cat asked. "I've never thought about it, but yes, I guess they would be related," the Man said. "What would happen if a piece of cotton string fell onto the ground?" the Cat asked. "Well...it would eventually be covered up and decompose into the soil," the Man said. "I see," said the Cat. "Then perhaps more cotton would grow above it, or a rose." "Yes, it would be possible," the Man agreed. "Then the rose growing on your windowsill might be related to the string you are holding as well as to all the pieces of string you do not know about," said the Cat. The Man knit his brow in thought. "Now take each end of the string in one hand," the Cat ordered. The Man did so. "The end in your left hand is my birth and the end in your right hand is my death. Now bring the two ends together," the Cat said. The Man complied. "You have made a continuous circle," said the cat. "Does any point along the string appear to be different, worse or better than any other part of the string?" The Man inspected the string and then shook his head "no." "Does the space inside the circle appear to be different from the space outside of the circle?" the Cat asked. Again the Man shook his head "no," but he still wasn't sure he understood the Cat's meaning. "Close your eyes again," the Cat said. "Now lick your hand." The Man widened his eyes in surprise.

"Just do it," the Cat said. "Lick your hand, think of me in all my familiar places, think about all the pieces of string, think about the cotton and the rose, think about how the inside of the circle is not different from the outside of the circle."

The Man felt foolish, licking his hand, but he did as he was told. He discovered what a cat must know, that licking a paw is very calming and allows one to think more clearly. He continued licking and the corners of his mouth turned upward into the first smile he had shown in days. He waited for the Cat to tell him to stop, and when he didn't he opened his eyes. The Cat's eyes were closed. The Man stroked the warm, brown fur, but the Cat was gone. The Man shut his eyes hard as the tears poured down his face. He saw the Cat on the windowsill, then in his bed, then lying across his important papers. He saw him on the pillow next to his head, saw his bright gold eyes and darkest brown on his nose and ears. He opened his eyes and through his tears looked over at the rose growing in a pot on the windowsill and then to the circle of string he still held clutched in his hand. One day, not long after, there was a new Cat on his lap. She was a lovely calico and white...very different from his earlier beloved Cat and very much the same.

Living Too Fast?

Posted by Shadow
Through time ..A very short time and we have went through great advancements in Human reality. just 50 or so years ago was black n white TV and shortwave radio. now its all circuits and computers high tech and along with that everything else we are involved with got HIGH tech. we are humans trying to keep up with a high tech World. Humans werent designed as such that we are presented on this planet at this time I am sure some would say we have it in our DNA to be able to.. but that DNA is not activated or is our physical systems use to this mass very fast paced change. and many have found their selves caught up in it..and get lost. not even long enough to breathe notice the real Worlds around them. They have gotten so tied up in today's modern society of must have or must be ..or has to.. they have lost sight of whats real. you have to at some point stop and think and give yourself time for things that are very Tangible to life as with nature ,, animals ..find the blue sky beyond the chemtrail ..lol I look at the pace the world is going and the human physicality trying to keep up.. I am afraid we will become more cyborgs then human.. and people saying they cant slow down .. yes they can..do away with a few features you added in your life that sped it up.. Games,, TV,, cell phones.

people were going through schools and appts and school functions coming and going were never pressured as much these days as in past to do so.. somehow many have let their computer high tech world complicate it.. By trying to keep up with its demands it is good to want to believe we are super human but realisticly physicaly we can only be and do so much when it comes to trying to keep up with technology. Take time to stop once in awhile take in whats real in life ..computers and technology may seem real but we have become prisoners to that which is lot faster then us and has sped life up so much..and at this rate..will do us in.. in a short time. And for those in a hurry to learn path because you feel your letting your Goddess down..remember it goes with intent and thought as long as you try to take the time..it is recognized..you just have to give it time..it doesnt work like these computers..and will not The magic of the higher realms does not allow such things to enforce it to progress you before its time. Slow Down!!! it is ok remember a time of when it wasnt so hectic and compare it to today..you can eliminate a few things temporarily to get that natural peace of mind so many deny themselves of.. What are you trying to prove by trying to keep up or speed up life..to shorten it? I surely hope not.. Much Peace Shadow

P.S. I realized something at the end of that..I have had many come here just wanting to be off planet couldnt handle turmoil..maybe they also keep them selves so wrapped up and in this speed up their life to get it over with ..and when they slow down..so does time..

Chats with Susun Weed

~ Third Monday of every month ~ Please join us with Susun Weed every month as she discusses different Herbal topics. Very informative and helpful to all. Check the dates below and time sand hope you can come by and visit and check out some of Susuns classes

November 19 - Saw palmetto December 17 - Chaste tree scheduled time for all chat sessions: Eastern - 7 pm Central - 6 pm Moutain Time - 5 pm Western - 4 pm Australia (Melbourne) - 9 am UK - 12 am

Awaken Your Soul and Find Your Purpose

Posted by SoaringEagleSpirit
A wise man once said that though we may travel our earth path alone, we carry with us ghosts. Ghosts of loved ones, ghosts of those that have passed, as well as ghosts of thought such as worry, obsession, regret, sorrow and challenge. With such a chorus of voices, is it any wonder that each of us at some point in our lives have experienced varying degrees of insecurity and bewilderment? Wondering beyond the mundane Am I normal? or Am I doing the right thing? to a deeper point. A philosophic imperative given to us by the Great Spirit of the Universe and it funnels down into one simple question: What is my purpose in life? Such a sacrosanct inquiry will never be answered on this earth walk. Nor is there one way to arrive at a destination. But the contours of this inquiry and what it means in your life are chiseled through your own experiences and actions. Imagine, if you will, that each of us is a thread in a magnificent tapestry of life with colors far beyond what traditional color spectrums show. Rich hues made more vibrant with the added dimensions of light, touch, smell and taste. And these colors are either enhanced or dimmed by our decisions. Not just our decisions but what we do in the face of these decisions. Will I take the good Red Road or will I elect to indulge my baser instincts? Instincts that are not founded in the universal law of love but in a law counter to love; one that results in suffering. When we examine our life path it is usually at a juncture when we're starkly reminded that what we're doing is not satisfying or is, in fact, painful. We are born with a pure intuition that makes us ask questions. We, in turn do many things in our quest to find the answers. When we're younger, our attempts at self-discovery are awkward and clumsy like a child learning to walk. As we get older and use this information in the way it was designedexperiencewe find that some behaviors serve us better than others. We are also baptized by the pain inflicted upon us by others, warranted or not, in the forms of heartbreak, death, trauma, scorn, being ostracized, etc. These very human experiences can place in our mind's eye what we believe to be a truth especially if we're young when the first betrayal of love's law is breached. This impression follows many of us throughout adulthood affecting our choices and the subsequent aftermath of those choices, good or bad.

No experience is ever wasted and no suffering not without a lesson. With that said, how does our past help us understand our true self. Our soul's future? More importantly, how can we transform our desire into something more satisfying even if we are unclear of how that desire might manifest. There is no one answer but there are ways we can all use our built-in radar to find the joys that bring great fulfillment to our lives. Have faith that the Creator of the Universe is ever-present. Ever watchful. Ever faithful and ever loving even if we are not present for Creator. And you were designed to be exactly who you are from your big green eyes to your penchant for chocolate or your ability to sprint like a cheetah. It therefore stands to reason that this unique DNA combination was designed to serve you on the most important mission of your life and that is to achieve your soul's purpose. The laws of self-discovery are vast but they start with having a relationship with your Source. The Divine guide, counselor and friend. Regular communication and mindful meditation help to connect you to your Source. The body, mind, spirit connection isn't there by fluke and when we do something positive, the joy we feel emanates outward like rays of sunshine. When we do things we know do not serve our higher self or the greater good, we feel shame. Ever wonder why you get a headache or can't sleep at night in the wake of a misdeed? A cross word to your son, driving by an injured animal or blowing off a friend's birthday celebration create a vortex of angst. That tornado is your inner radar telling you you swerved off-course and now are experiencing turbulence. Intuition calls to you that there is a better way and you don't need anything exotic to achieve it. You have all the resources at your disposal if only you'd look with a quiet mind and heart. Determine what it is that you do not want to do, be or have. Think about it, you might not know how your talent in growing an abundance of tomatoes in your family garden might result in achieving your soul's purpose but you do know that putting together accounting reports would be a fate worse than death. Our soul's destiny is not a singular magical moment to awarenessthough that has occurredbut is more likely a series of vignettes in your life that stand out. In retrospect you see each experience like a brick in the foundation of your life. When they're sufficiently placed you begin to see the outline of the house. This inspires you to continue even though you know that building the house is hard work. That won't dissuade you. Best of all, you can make changes as you go, adjusting your vision for dormer windows into spacious glass enclosed gothic arches instead. The house's foundation won't be shaken by adjustments necessary to make it a place of joy in which to view and reside. The same holds true for your path to higher self.

There are no must-do's in life but there are do nots. Do not think your value comes from what you do either as a profession or talent. We are much more than the sum of our elements. Do not base your value on what you possess other than thoughts of gratitude, love, faith, forgiveness, empathy and hope. Do not live for the expectations of others. Instead pursue the direction of what you know to be true. The truth that is felt in the deepest part of your heart for this won't lie to you. Do listen with your heart and your mind. If painting houses is your passion, do it! Not just for yourself but maybe for a local charity. Do remember that Creator will help guide you if only you ask. Prayers are answered though not necessarily in the way you want but surely in the way you need. Its not enough to travel to your soul's fulfillment but to recognize the connection we have to everyone and to support them and love them in achieving their destiny too. From Plato to the Dali Lama, Descartes to Sark, Chief Joseph to Paul Coehlo, our contemplations are complemented by the observations of others but cannot replace our journey in finding our own sacred place in the world. Nothing is too small and nothing is too large but everything is possible if that is your soul's truest path. Remember too that you will be given the time necessary to achieve your soul's purpose if you follow it with integrity. Embrace it, understand that you will never know it completely but have faith that if you follow the good Red Road of life, you will feast on the bountiful joys that counter any of pains of living. Live, laugh, learn and, above all, love. Aho.
By ChayraCom on November 1, 2011 http://www.shamanswell.org

10 Tips to Unlock the Healing Powers of Basil

Postted by SoarriingEaglleSpiirriitt Pos ed by Soa ngEag eSp
Sweet, silken and fragrant, basil is queen among healing herbs. Native to tropical nations such as India and Iran, it has been used for centuries in combating a staggering range of health problems. I remember my grandmother prescribing it as a panacea for almost every ill, ranging from coughs to cuts to malaria, and everything in between! She followed the ayurvedic way of healing, in which basil has been given the status of a rasayana, or revered ingredient. 5 Ways to Heal with Basil:

Pound 6 to 7 basil leaves with a pestle and mortar. Mix the paste with 1 tsp honey. Take this first thing in the morning to boost immunity and get relief from hypertension. Boil a handful of basil leaves in 4 cups of water. Strain the water and sip it, warm, every 30 minutes or so. Your throat will feel relieved, your stomach settled, and your senses calmed. If you dip a ball of cotton in basil-infused water and dab it on your skin, you will get instant relief from itchiness and sore skin. Sweet and wonderfully aromatic basil essential oil brings relief from inflammatory conditions such as joint ache and heartburn. It is also reputed to sharpen the mind and strengthen the nervous system. Applying a dot of basil essential oil on the tip of your nose and on your temples brings quick relief from stress.

5 Fresh Ways to Cook with Basil: When we think basil, it is usually in the context of pesto. Here are some easy and exciting ideas to bring more of this bountiful herb into your kitchen and your life:

Knead some fresh chopped basil leaves into your bread dough. Tear up a few leaves and scatter them upon your omelette, pizza or toast. Intensifies the aroma and flavor dramatically. How about trying a couple of finely chopped basil leaves in a tall glass of iced tea or a cool summer mocktail? Chop some basil leaves really fine, and whisk them into a knob of butter. You have delicious basil butter! Basil, tomato and mozzarella are a match made in culinary heaven! But you knew that, of course. Shubhra Krishan June 5, 2012

Stones to enhance spiritual growth

Posted by Foxglove
Many of these stones are wonderful tools to employ on your spiritual journey. They can help you access high-energy frequencies, creating a spiritual awakening and a desire to connect to the higher realms. Danburite: This activates the heart, third eye, crown and etheric chakra. It is linked to angelic communication. It is excellent for meditation as it calms the mind, clearing any mental chatter. It gently helps you resonate with high frequency light energy and facilitates connection with guides and spirits. Petalite: This stone activates the third eye, crown and etheric chakra. It connects to the realm of spirit and activates the higher mind. When worn it maintains that higher state of awareness throughout your day. It is calming and balancing and good for emotional trauma. Its lithium content creates a sense of peace and harmony. It helps to release worries and when used during meditation enables you to enter a state of deep relaxation and peace. It brings with it a frequency of calm, selfacceptance and universal love. Its loving qualities are very much amplified when combined with rose Quartz. Selenite: This activates the third eye, crown and etheric chakra. It cleanses the auric field and clears unwanted energies from the physical and etheric body. Selenite lifts your awareness to higher planes allowing you to access and contact guides and guardian angels. Celestite: This stone connects to the third eye, crown and etheric chakra. Its gentle energies raise and expand awareness, linking with the higher realms. It is one of the most effective stones for connecting and communicating with the angelic realms. It stimulates the spiritual senses and gently directs you towards enlightenment. Place on the third eye to connect to universal energies. A large piece placed in a room heightens the vibrations within the room. Phenacite: This connects to the third eye and crown chakra. It has one of the highest crystal vibrations. It resonates with the etheric body, activates the light body and aids the ascension process. It allows you to rapidly access higher levels of guidance and awareness. Stimulation of the third eye is greater with Phenacite than virtually any other stone. It promotes psychic perception, visions and dreams. It is an excellent stone to use during meditation, providing access to greater spiritual understanding. Other stones with high frequency vibrations include Elestial Quartz ,Angelite, Cathedral Quartz, Cavansite, Azeztulite, Angel Phantom Quartz, Amethyst, Moldavite Ajoite, Lazulite, Kunzite, Blue Kyanite, Blue Halite. These high frequency stones raise your vibration, triggering spiritual development and awareness and enhancing higher states of consciousness, opening to another reality. Combining these stones with Moldavite strengthens their vibrations. Love and light Foxglove

How to meet (virtual) strangers

Posted by Foxxy
Some of us are pretty secure in our beliefs and abilities: some are less so. Since meeting total strangers can be nerve-wracking, and since like Shadow and Breeze, Herm and I met online, I thought Id offer some guidelines. 1) Trust your gut. If at any point in this process, your gut tells you to slow down or stop, theres usually a bloody good reason for it. Most of us want to give others the benefit of the doubt, but if your intuition is saying NO, please listen to it! 2) Check Profiles: Read their posts, see what groups they are involved in. That alone will give you a reasonable understanding of what their interests are, and how they communicate; i.e. a window into their heart. 3) Talk on site. Use forest Email or PMs to just chat. Get to know them. If youve read their profiles and posts, you should have enough common ground to chat. Take your time here. You want to be comfortable before you give out even your phone number. Sad to say, predators have the same access to reverse phone numbers and other such personal information as cops do: only difference is predators have to pay for it. 4) Talk in open EF chat, then ask others you trust their opinions. One can be so enthusiastic about finding someone local that one may inadvertently overlook red or yellow flags. If the others in chat arent ambivalent or negative, odds are pretty good the other persons safe. We have a lot of perceptive regulars: take advantage (in a nice way) of their skills. 5) If theyve passed muster this far, and youre still leery about giving out your phone number, try chatting on one of the freestanding messenger services like Yahoo, MSN or AIM. Its more personal, but still pretty anonymous and not as Ram bulky as EF. Stay aware of restrictions they may put on communication (like Dont PM me, Ill PM you), or I cant talk right now take that as a caution flag. Granted, many arent supposed to chat at work, but if theyre hiding their conversations from others, best to question why before it goes any further. 6) Phone conversation would be the next step. Listen not just with your ears and heart, but with your gut. IF you dont like what youre hearing, you can cut it off at this stage. But again, take your time. Multiple phone calls at various times of the day should assure you the other person is not hiding what theyre doing. 7) When you plan to meet, do so publicly. Coffee shops, book stores, etc. are good meeting places because there are always others within yelling distance. A good back up plan is to have someone phone you an hour or so into the meeting. If its not going well, you can use the phone call to escape the situation. If it is, then someone else is at least aware youre comfortable at this point. Alternate locations to meet would be Pagan Prides, Public rituals or gatherings. It does help to specify what youll be wearing or some other identifiable feature. For me its the red head with hat and cane. Pretty limiting description. Again, heed your gut. Odds are if you havent picked up any red flags by now, you arent going to. 8) Have fun. But remember too, there are few things as completely intimate as sharing ritual. Dont compromise your core beliefs just to have a body to share your practice with. Far too many of the predators in the pagan community are of the my way or highway variety, self-appointed HPs who will brow beat you into things youre not comfortable doing. Dont fall into that trap. May the Lord and Lady guide you to like-minded others as They have me. Blessings, Foxxy

PLEASE JOIN US..WILL BE A CHAT PLACED IN THIS GROUP BEFORE EACH CLASS!!! THANK YOU AND ENJOY USA CENTRAL - 7pm EASTERN - 8pm WESTERN - 5pm AUSTRALIA(MELBOURNE) Noon Friday UK - 1am With Blazing Eagletree

Willow Saille
Posted by Bruce
Pronounciation: (Sahl ay) Moon Phase: 5th Moon of celtic calendar (March to April) Moon Name: Moon of winds, Chaste, Witches moon Letter: S Title: Peasant Height: (mature) up to 25ft 5mtr Influence: Feminine Age: Will live to see your great grandchildren. Shape: Storm Umbrella or mushroom Legend: A wise womans healing tree, capable of healing all womens ailments. Calming emotions, holding secrets, a womans knowledge is shared by women. Medicinal Qualities: All water or damp caused diseases, the bark should be grated and steamed before using for an elixir. The fresh leaves and flowers should be placed inside a pillow or mattress. The flowers once picked and still fresh will help with menstrual cramps and pains. This tree provides the base of aspirin such is the versatility of it's use as homeopathic, herbal or natural and now conventional medicines.
The White Willow and more recently the Weeping Willow are very understated trees. Sisters to the Birch but they will seldom be seen together, the willow comes into her own once she reaches two generations about 50 years of age. From the age of 50 to about 200 she will blossom and share her secrets with anyone who cares to listen, like the Birch it is the full moon that brings her into her glory she will call out into the light of the moon and bring forward the joys of spring.

Her long branches creating a haven and providing shade for many a heated soul by day and by night encouraging the fae and all elementals to dance with her to take her branches and dance with the serenity of a swan and the poise of an angel. This tree was so highly revered by the druid/ess, the village wise woman for its healing qualities that it became known as the witches tree and as such led to its fall from popularity and its reputation for magick. A willows branches have long been used for baskets, small boats, lobster pots, dyes or tanning. With a long history of being an enchanted tree and one to welcome into your fold more recent times have seen it surrounded in a darker and more sinister reputation. The older willow that survived the floods and remained on the river bank knarled and hollowed was seen as a witches tree and the cause of bad luck, instead of a survivor and creator of new life. A cutting from willow will grow easily in most conditions living up to 300 years they will flourish in most places constantly reseeding and growing. Hecate had a grove of willows, Hecate being a goddess of death with Persephone also having a grove of Poplar with ancient willow, this did nothing to enhance the reputation of this goddess among trees. Always growing in or near water she is known to glory with the moon, also the ebb and flow of the tides controlled by the moon enhance her image of being a female amongst females. Like the Birch she whispers into the night, a keeper of secrets and a seducer of many a poet and medic. Orpheus being one of the more celebrated of ancient Greek poets is said to have carried willow branches to enable him to travel to other worlds and thus share his eloquence. Hipokrate's was also an ancient greek who created foundations for investigating the medicinal qualities of the willow. Used for making magical harps to woo or seduce a new love, to carry willow flowers or branches to encourage love, the willow is known as a potent bringer of magic and is suspected of uprooting and following wanderers muttering enchantments as they walk. A waning moon to encourage spirits to help cast off old ways and a waxing moon leading to new love and new beginnings the willow will encourage spirit to work with you and provide the protection needed for spells to work as they should. Many a witches wand has been made with the permission of the willow and many a harp for enchanting new love. It is written if a fair maidens shoe is caught by the willow then marriage is sure to follow.
Copyright Bruce October 2012

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Alder Fearn
Posted by Bruce
Pronounciation: (Fair - errn) (faer n) Moon Phase: 4th Moon of the Celtic calendar (February to March) Moon Name: Moon of Ice, Storm Moon, Snow Moon Letter: F Title: Chieftain Height: (mature) up to 75ft - 25 mtr Influence: Masculine Age: Will live to see your grandchildrens, children Shape: Traditional pine cone Legend: This tree is an oracle and is also vocal. It is a library containing the wisdom of the ages. A prophet and philosopher combined. Medicinal Qualities: A sprig of Alder to keep the cold away, A sprig kept under the pillow will aid arthritic joints also help fight off chesty or wheezy coughs. To turn the sap into an elixir (heavily diluted) will help cleanse the blood, liver, bladder from toxins. A tea can be made from the bark to aid diarrhea and reduce the pain from toothache. The Alder is a solitary tree, he is happy to stand alone and offer protection to any that seek it. Used to make the shields for Celtic warriors and used to sink piles deep into river beds, craigs and lochs, this tree gives support and provides protection. Many a blacksmith has been pleased with the Alder, the smithy knowing yet more secrets the Alder brings, a hot furnace with hotter coals the coming of the iron age. The alder didn't just make the shields, it heated the furnaces to make the spearheads and arrows.

Bran the blessed is reputed to have led his followers to the White Mount in London where his head was buried, this leading to the legend of the Ravens at the Tower of London. The ravens said to have the oracular strength of Bran himself. Should Brans head ever be dug up or removed then London would fall to it's enemies. The builders of Venice recognised the strength of the piles made of Alder and a lot of Venice today still stands on these piles. If this tree is cut it's sap will turn red, this contributed towards it's sacred status and the belief that it is unlucky to harm this tree. In many cultures the alder will be avoided this is also because it thrives in wet marshy earth, thus letting travellers know that a bog or marsh was underfoot. The roots of this tree go deep and are thick, so planted on river banks will bring solidity to the earth. Like his sister the Birch this tree promotes new growth around it but does not like family to be close, it's cones and catkins are carried away on the wind or drift away with the stream. There are many legends surrounding the Alder, it is known as a talking tree and is associated with Odin from the North, Bran a native to Prydain and Ireland, it is no coincidence that it is favoured by Ravens who nest in it's uppermost branches. Odin had two Ravens that would be sent out each morning to return to him each night having collected information for the God. Bran is said to have stretched his body across a river and allowed his troops to escape, but being caught himself he was beheaded, his head spoke to his followers for 7 years before being buried at what is now the Tower of London. His ravens to this day are kept at the tower as it is believed that should they leave then London will fall. If the Alder is cut then its sap will turn red, A ravens high shrill alert will travel for miles, alerting and calling to others. Odin is said to have had a horse with 8 legs and this tree is known for it's oracular abilities, in the same way Odin with his Horse and Ravens collected and shared knowledge so this tree does the same. It is known that being one of the first trees to flourish it attracts and feeds the first bees and birds of the coming year, it also allows the elementals to play beneath it's branches. It is known as the faery tree and is known to accomodate the water spirits and the king of the elves. The twigs, bark and leaves serve many purposes, the twigs and bark attract insects and so placed onto furniture infested with woodworm it will attract the wood worm away from your wood. The young leaves are sticky and scented these will attract fleas where once stuck they become prey to bigger insects. The wood when burned is favoured by smithys because it is hot, it is favoured by cobblers because it is light. Many a pair of clogs have been made from this wood.
Copyright Bruce Sept 2012

Cleansing the Energy Centers, Expanding the Aura

Posted by Hedral
The state of our energy centers directly affects our aura. I firmly believe that this relates directly with our well being on all levels, the physical, emotional, mental and spiritual. These are not separate parts but parts of a whole. Optimally that is how it should "be"..the ultimate way to "BE". I personally work with my energy centers and aura daily. No matter what is happening, no matter what I am facing I consistently find my coping skills are enhanced by this practice. Not only am I able to cope more effectively with the challenges; I am also able to see the opportunities to acquire more wisdom from these dilemmas. There are many ways to cleanse and heal the energy centers. I don't believe there is one way that is better than another. What matters is the intent and what works best for you, personally. It's good to read about the ways other people accomplish this. It's a good starting point but as you begin to work with aura cleansing and healing ; you will find a way that works best for you. My practice of chakra/ aura cleansing and healing is very eclectic. However, it always begins with Gratitude, Reiki. and breathing. This is what resonates with me. Sometimes it takes 10 minutes and sometimes it takes me an hour or so. Another important step is to prepare your space. Whatever your tradition, always ask your Higher Source to help prepare your space with healing and protection. It prepares us for the working and gives a heightened sense of relaxation and openness. These enhance the clearing and healing practice. What you will accomplish is a life force charged with higher vibrations, energy centers flowing with fewer blockages, release of tensions and a healthier aura. Center, Balance and Focus. That is what it's all about.

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