The Wisdom of Dominoes

Robert H Schulz

(Revision 3)

There is safety in Numbers. Old English proverb.

Index
Announcement Domino History Divination History Divination Introduction Schematic of Numbers and their Context. Domino Faces: 0 / Bank 1 2 3 4 5 6 Appendix 1 Maslows Hierarchy Appendix 2 Easons correspondences Appendix 3 Paces correspondences Appendix 4 Divination using face numbers Appendix 5 Defence Mechanisms Appendix 6 Care of the Client Appendix 7 Domino Reading Template Appendix 8 Domino Reading Template 2 Appendix 9 The What and How of Divination The Body as Oracle Domino Readings 11 13 15 17 19 21 23 25 2 3 5 6 8 9

27

28

29

33

36

38

39

40 43 46

In this revision (Revision 3) I have made amendments to the text and deleted some sections, but the divination process remains the same: You can divine using more than one domino. Various spreads can be found on the Internet and in books. Usually they simply replicate Tarot layouts. Personally I think that even just one domino can provide a depth of information if interpreted wisely. Id recommend that a maximum of two dominoes are used. The first representing HERE and NOW, i.e. the PRESENT. The second reveals how the present is likely to develop into the NEAR FUTURE. In other words, how seeds which have been sown recently are going to grow: They may produce good fruit in abundance. They may prove to be a disappointment. They may wither through lack of attention! I have now included an option for a transitional domino in the reading. This is described in Appendix 4. Once you have established the possibilities with your client, it is up to them to take the appropriate action.

Note
I have provided a short justification for my understanding of divination at Appendix 8. This is adapted from my article, De-mythologizing and de-mystifying the I Ching. Additional information on the characteristics of numbers can be found in my compendium, Numbers and Their Meanings.

Dominoes.
History
Unlike dominoes dice have a well established history thanks to archaeology. Wikipedia has a good summary: Dice have been used throughout Asia since before recorded history; the oldest known dice were excavated as part of a 5000-year-old backgammon set at the Burnt City, an archaeological site in south-eastern Iran. Other excavations from ancient tombs in the Indus Valley civilization indicate a South Asian origin. Dicing is mentioned as an Indian game in the Rigveda, Atharvaveda and Buddha games list; it also plays a critical role in the great Hindu epic Mahabharata, where Yudhisthira plays a game of dice against the Kauravas for the northern kingdom of Hastinapura, which becomes the trigger for a war. There are several biblical references to "casting lots", as in Psalm 22, indicating that dicing was commonplace in the region during King David's reign. Knucklebones was a skill game played by women and children; a derivative form had the four sides of the bone receive different values and count as modern dice. Gambling with two or three dice was a very popular form of amusement in Greece, especially with the upper classes, and an invariable accompaniment to symposia. Dice were originally made from the talus of hoofed animals, colloquially known as "knucklebones". These are approximately tetrahedral, giving the term "bones" used for dice. Modern Mongolians still use such bones as shagai, for games and fortunetelling. Besides bone, materials like ivory, wood and recently plastics like cellulose acetate have been used. Dice are hard to differentiate from knucklebones because ancient writers confused the two, but both were used in prehistoric times. The Romans were passionate gamblers, especially at the peak of the Roman Empire, and dicing was common though forbidden except during the Saturnalia. Horace derided what he thought as a typical youth of the period, who wasted time on dicing instead of horse-chasing. Throwing dice for money was the cause of many special laws in Rome; one of these stated that no lawsuit could be filed by a person who allowed gambling in his house, even if he had been cheated or assaulted. Professional gamblers were common; some of their loaded dice are preserved in museums. The public houses were the resorts of gamblers, and frescos exist showing two quarrelling dicers being ejected by the host. Twenty-sided dice date back to the 2nd century AD and late BC. Tacitus stated that the Germans were passionately fond of dicing, so much that they would stake their personal liberty when bankrupt. During the Middle Ages, dicing became the favourite pastime of the knights, with dicing schools and guilds. After the downfall of feudalism, the landsknechts established a reputation as the most notorious dicing gamblers of their time; many of the dice then were curiously carved in the images of men and beasts. In France, dicing was played by both knights and ladies, despite repeated legislation, including interdictions on the part of St. Louis in 1254 and 1256. The markings on Chinese dominoes evolved from the markings on dice. The known history of dominoes only begins in the twelfth century, in China: Nobody is sure where or when Chinese dominoes came into existence, but they were reported by European travellers during the Renaissance and are still popular in Asian countries today. According to some Chinese accounts an heroic soldier called Hung Ming (181 - 234 AD) invented them to help keep his soldiers awake during night watches when encamped before battle. Others state that Keung T'ai Kung invented them in the 12th-century. A Chinese historical account called the Chu sz Yam ("Investigations on the Traditions of All Things") states they were invented by a nobleman who then presented them to the Chinese Emperor Hui Tsung whose son Kao Tsung (1127 - 1160 AD) subsequently had them circulated abroad. Other interpreters say that this document refers to the standardization and not the invention of the game itself, which is much older. According to Andrew Lo, the earliest extant manual on dominoes is by Qu You (1347-1433) who wrote the "Xuanhe paipu" (manual of dominoes in the Xuanhe period 1119-1125). Also Xie Zhaozhe (1567-1624) mentions the legend of their invention in 1112. Even if these and various other references to domino playing

4 in the 12th century are not to be trusted, they must certainly have been in use well before the early 15th century, when the first of these books was written. Interestingly Chinese dominoes have the one and four pips in red, the rest of the set being white dots. This is exactly the same as Chinese dice. A full Chinese domino set consists of 32 tiles as some combinations are duplicated. There are no blanks, unlike the western set which has 28 tiles, and no duplicates. One authority states: I may suggest, in conclusion, that dominoes may have been first used as counters or tallies in a dice game or in a method of fortune telling with dice. They existed in their present form in China in the year 1120 AD, according to the Chinese records, with similar astrological associations as at the present day. They are clearly descended from dice, and particularly from that game with two dice which appears to have been introduced into China from western Asia. Further support for dice-derived dominoes comes from Korea: It is readily apparent that the 21 individual domino pieces represent the possible throws with 2 dice, and that the domino pieces may be regarded as conjoined dice. Of this the Korean dominoes furnish the best material evidence. Consonant with many other Korean objects, they are typical of an earlier age of Chinese culture than that now existing in China. Their material, colour of spots, and the manner in which the "one" spots are incised and made larger than the other spots, complete their resemblance to 2 conjoined dice. If we accept this theory the bone faced bamboo dominoes may be regarded as directly related to the preceding, the wooden backs being substituted as a matter of economy. Dominoes made entirely of wood would naturally follow, and the long dominoes used in the south of China might be regarded as a later type. Even they bear a suggestion of their origin in the spots with which their ends and tops are decorated. The names of the dominoes are the same as those of the corresponding throws with the 2 dice, and the pieces are divided, like the dice-throws, into the series of man and m, in which they rank in the same order as the dice. The correspondence extends to the game as well, the most characteristic domino game, t t'n kau, closely resembling the most characteristic dice game, chk t'n kau. Indeed, if dominoes are invented for the purpose of a game, they doubtless had their origin in the game with 2 dice. This game with 2 dice, shung luk, which, according to one Chinese authority, is said to have come from India, finds a parallel in an Indian dice game.

A further speculation is that the numbering of clay tiles was used by the Babylonians in their business accounting, and they could possibly have been the forerunners of dominoes. It doesn't take much imagination to see dice used in games being crossed with accounting tiles used for business, to produce dominoes. In Western Europe dominoes made a belated appearance, and there is no obvious link with their Chinese counterparts. Although a single domino, along with other gaming artefacts, was found in the wreck of the Mary Rose, a 16th century warship of Henry VIII, there is little evidence of them in Western literature, as compared with many other games from the same period in history. The history of dominoes indicates that they were probably first played in the Western world in Italy, Venice or Naples, and from there in France. In addition to the game itself, the French invented domino puzzles, using tiles to complete matching patterns, in the latter part of the 18th century. In Discovering Dice and Dominoes, R C Bell provides a history of dominoes in the West. He states:

5 Dominoes of bone seem to have appeared first in Italy during the early eighteenth century and spread throughout Europe, reaching England about 1790 from France, brought in by prisoners-of-war. Joseph Strutt, in his Sports and Pastimes of the People of England, 1801, commented that dominoes is a very childish sport.

Divination History.
Although there are many books available today on dice and domino divination, there is little historical evidence on early divination systems and procedures. The Elliott Avedon Virtual Museum of Games has the following article regarding divination with Chinese dominoes: Fortune Telling with Dominoes

Dominoes are regularly used in fortune telling in China at the present day, and their use for this purpose is generally known to the labourers who come to America. I have before me a book entitled Ng p'i shan sh t' ch ts'ung ki, "a chart for finding out the numbers by divine aid and with ivory dominoes, with an explanation and commentary." This work was printed in Canton in 1865, the name of the author being given as Ch'ing Ngok. The preface, which professes to explain the attributes and astrological significance of the dominoes, is followed by a series of diagrams illustrating different combinations formed with dominoes taken three, or in one class, two at a time. Specimens of the different classes are represented in Plate 7.

The following names and numerical value: are given to them: pat t'ung, "unlike," counts 6 hp hu "ingeniously divided," counts 4 'ng tsz', "five spots," counts 5 fan shung, "divided reciprocally," counts 3 m kuan, "cavalry," counts 3 sm luk, "two, three, six," counts 3 i sam, "ace, two, three," counts 3 ti tsz', "corresponding spots," counts 3 ching fi, "correctly satisfied," counts 1. In telling fortunes an entire set of dominoes is placed face down upon a table and well mixed. The dominoes are then all placed side by side in a row and reversed. The manipulator selects from this row as many combinations as possible, formed by adjacent pieces, according to the diagrams, and adds together the numbers corresponding with them. This sum is referred to the following table and result noted: 1 to 4 is to be esteemed h h, "lowest" 5 to 7 is to be esteemed chung h, "below the middle"

6 8 to 9 is to be esteemed chung p'ing, "even middle" 10 to 11 is to be esteemed shung shung, "highest" The dominoes are then reversed again and mixed, and the preceding operations twice repeated, and 3 sets of terms from the above series obtained. Reference is then made to the text of the book. This consists of 125 pages, arranged in order under all the different combinations that may be formed with the 5 pairs of terms given above, taken 3 pairs at a time, commencing with shung shung, shung shung, shung shung. An oracular verse, apparently of original composition, is found on each page, referring to some well-known personage or incident, with a short text to aid the diviner in applying the prognostication to the various affairs of life.

The earliest book containing advice on Western domino divination I have come across is: Fontaines Golden Wheel Fortune Teller and Dream Book. (1862). This has seven pages devoted to domino fortune-telling, and provides a reading for each of the 28 tiles.

Divination.
Looking at books on domino divination as well as searching the Internet, it would appear that domino (and dice) divination are relegated to second place. The most comprehensive and subtle, as well as complex, systems are the YiJing, Astrology, Tarot, Gematria and the African Ifa oracle. They all have a well developed methodology to determine the answer to a question and are broad enough to encompass a whole range of queries. They have a long developmental history and it is appropriate to call them divination systems. In contradistinction, domino readings are often only a sentence or two. Even books like Predicting the future with Dominoes gives little information and is certainly not comprehensive. There are variations on how to consult the dominoes. Some treat 1:2 the same as 2:1. Others allow for the distinction between the first and second number on a horizontal domino. This results in a possible 42 readings as opposed to 28. Interestingly Tarot readings also include the possibility that some cards will be upside down and therefore merit a different reading. Comparing one set of readings with another reveals that there is no commonly accepted standard for what each domino represents. This seems to imply that each domino is simply an indicator for what reading to select, in essence a page number. Sara Zed, in the book just mentioned, strongly insists that dominoes mustnt be interpreted by their numerological values. She provides no justification for this. Possibly she has inherited a set of readings from her family and just continues to use them? Many of the readings from the Internet and books are in the form of: A blissfully happy marriage is likely, Dramatic change in romance and love life, Be prepared for a visitor, who may be a stranger offering interesting news. As such these merit the description of Fortune-Telling rather than divination. Taking my cue from my YiJing studies, I consider divination as the process of outlining the development of situations in terms of what changes are beginning in the present, and then giving advice on how best to manage the changing situation to maximise the benefits. In short, guidance for negotiating change. Fortune telling is telling what will happen in the future, in the sense of what Fate has in store. It pays no attention to an individuals free will but concentrates on what will happen, come-what-may. This particular view of the future as inevitable is completely erroneous as everyone has free will. Usually they provide no guidance on how to respond to changing situations and altered circumstances, which is one of the key elements of divination proper. Sara Zed offers an alternative way of using dominoes by linking them with the Major Arcana of the Tarot deck. Her methodology is shown below. It is true that amongst divination systems many practitioners have found links and correspondences between them. There are several books which list correspondences for magical use; linking

7 gemstones, herbs, planets, elements and numbers to list but a few. However I think dominoes, properly understood, can stand in their own right as a sophisticated divination system rather than just fortune telling. They do not need to be allied with a system that carries more status. Similarly Nigel Pennick in, Secret Games of the Gods, in the context of Geomantic divination, makes some comments on possible links between geomancy and European dominoes. The same comment applies here. See below. (N. B. The only reference to double-eight dominoes I have found mentions Austria and says that they are no longer available).

In both of these cases it seems to me to be an attempt to unnecessarily link dominoes with another divination system, as though dominoes need to derive their value from elsewhere.

9 It was a complete coincidence, (are there any meaningless coincidences ?), when I came across Ancient Wisdom by Cassandra Eason. (1997). She devotes thirteen pages to domino divination, but in that short space she reveals a sophisticated understanding of divining with dominoes. She uses the sequence of dots on a horizontal domino. Thus 2:3 is not the same as 3:2. She provides an explanation of the numbers 1 to 6 as well as the blank. This probably comes from numerology? She also considers whether the two numbers show an increase, e.g. 1:4 or a decrease 6:2. The former she calls waxing and the latter waning.

The book is a compendium of forty systems of divination from around the world and so the section on dominoes is small. Nevertheless her systematic way of understanding dominoes is quite remarkable and I have not come across anything as sophisticated elsewhere. I expect that her brief texts for each domino could be expanded to become a more comprehensive reading whilst still keeping to the principles she outlines. This is the motivation behind this book.

Introduction.
I have attempted to provide descriptions of what the domino faces could mean. Some of the information is drawn from the meanings attached to numbers, from numerology and some from my personal experience. Numerology has a vast compendium of ideas from most of the ancient religions as well as mythology and folk lore. I have not drawn on much of this material as it is too vast. Should the reader wish to explore this treasure trove he will have to search through the many books on numbers and numerology. Some are good, some are dire, but I refrain from recommending any in the interests of fairness. What I like you may think is rubbish. Many authors of books on dice divination have also written books on domino divination. This is hardly surprising as domino faces are simply the same as two dice throws. The same text for a reading will be applicable in both cases. However there is one crucial difference. The dominoes, in a double-six set, have eight blank squares as well as the numbered squares. This situation cannot be reproduced in dice throws. The importance of the blank faces cannot be over-emphasised. The blank, as you can see from the readings below, is all about hidden elements that arise in a situation, or the collapse of a situation into darkness and the unknown. Such an experience cannot be read into any dice throw. This may seem unimportant, but I think not. It does show that dominoes are a more comprehensive system than dice. Whilst working on further revisions to The Wisdom of Dominoes it became apparent that I had missed an obvious fact. As the numbers increased, from one through to six, so the individuals horizons and awareness expanded. Number one is essentially about me, my and mine: A preoccupation with oneself. In the worst of cases rampant egotism, but in the average person just a concern with ones personal life, health and wealth. Number two expands the horizon to include a significant other. Then the sequence of a small intimate circle of family and friends, then the wider community of work, neighbourhood, social activities. Beyond this is a concern for the wider world which may take the form of actively engaging in climate change, ecology, Third World poverty etc. The final horizon is that of ultimate meaning, spirituality in whatever form appeals to the individual. Maybe established religions or new forms of spiritual seeking or just a developing philosophical perspective on life. As the horizons widen, so new experiences and motivations build on what has already been achieved in the individuals life. This is shown in diagrammatic form below.

10

Schematic Diagram of the Numbers and their Context

Universal Concerns..........................

6 5 4 3 2 1
Expansion

The Wider World............................... ..

The Community.........................................

Intimate Circle................................................

Contraction

Partnerships........................................................

The Individual............................................................

Personal Unconscious............................................. BLANK

Collective Unconscious......................................

BLANK

11

BLANK or 0:

Hidden uncertainties and opportunities

The symbolism of the Blank is best appreciated on a black rather than a white domino. In all creation myths, before anything started there was only chaos. In Genesis, before the creation of the world all was dark and formless. In nature, the seed remains in the dark ground and only when it penetrates the surface of the soil does it see the light. In pregnancy the baby remains an unknown, in the darkness of the womb, until it is born. The blank is, very emphatically, pregnant with possibilities. In terms of human creativity, the unconscious churns and sifts through a multitude of ideas until it makes a breakthrough, connecting ideas that seemed unconnected in the first instance. Then the new idea moves from the unconscious to the conscious as a Eureka moment. So the blank is about hiddenness. In the individual as well as the group, this means the unconscious. Those drives and passions which we repress - our negativity, judgmental nature, and our other secret peculiarities and struggles. Jung called this the Shadow; all that we wish to deny about ourselves and end up projecting onto others. We want to pretend it isnt there and in so doing actually give it energy and a life of its own. Jung believed that in spite of its function as a reservoir for human darknessor perhaps because of this, the Shadow is the seat of creativity. It needs to be acknowledged and worked with so that all the repressed energy has a creative outlet. In practice the energy of anger and envy can fuel constructive action and motivation. However for most of us, however enlightened we think we are, will always be prey to some degree from our unconscious drives and passions. See Appendix 5 for details of how our unconscious can affect us, and how we might see it affecting others. So the blank suggests the unknown both as a potential positive and creative beginning, but also as potentially damaging and dangerous. Not only can the blank represent the individual, the person who is asking for a divination, but it can also represent the situations surrounding the individual: Close to hand a partner, or the wider family or the workplace or any elements that are having a positive or negative effect. However, because this is the Blank reading and we are in the dark, it will be difficult to ascertain exactly what is in fact, going on. In these circumstances the other domino faces need to be consulted for clues. Cultural Depictions: In the story of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde we see an extreme example of how the individuals shadow can be destructive.

If waxing, it suggests unconscious energies, good or bad, are coming into consciousness and being expressed.

Being a blank it cannot wane.

12 If doubled it indicates that a profound surge of unconscious drives and energies. How these are expressed is determined by the other dominoes in the reading. Associated ideas Unknown, secret, undecided, unresolved, unsettled, unsure, undiscovered, nameless, new, novel, strange, oblivious to, indifferent, unaware, instinctive, uncontrolled, unintentional, unthinking, concealed, unseen, out-ofsight, unfathomable, cryptic, covert, arcane, ulterior, deep, subliminal, hidden, mysterious, obscure, incomprehensible, imaginative, innovatory, original, inspired, visionary, artistic, experimental, expressive, mysterious, secret, veiled, obscure, negative, fatalistic, despondent, advance, development, discovery, innovation, revolution, vitality, spirit, enthusiasm, force, dynamism, drive, power

NOTES.

13

ONE:

The Individual
We are born, live a life and then die. Inevitably therefore, we are orientated to ourselves. We talk of I, me, myself and mine. We might also use the pronoun one or oneself. We see the world through our own eyes and act accordingly. One represents identity and independence the individual. It is the individual who has the drive and energy to make things happen, more so when he/she is strong willed, positive and goal-striving. One suggests leadership, originality, inventiveness, self-sufficiency. Also courage, inspiration, creativity and ambition. One, as an ego, initiates, creates, perseveres, and even vacillates and destroys depending on their motives: It is the individual acting in and on his surroundings: Man as the actor with the world as his stage. One also can be seen as first: First in place, first in line, first away. First steps as the start of a new venture. Further characteristics include uniqueness, solitude and unconventionality. It can also represent isolation. The One could be alone and not connected. As a prisoner in solitary confinement. As being sent to Coventry, rejected or spurned by ones fellows. Being regarded as a leper. On the positive side there is choosing to go solo on some adventure. Choosing to be single for whatever reason. In the wider context One indicates new beginnings and pioneering activity. Negative Aspects: However One can become excessively egocentric, manifesting impatience, dominance, aggression, pride and selfishness. The individual can be so stubborn and tenacious as to ignore good judgement. Their frustration may be manifest in anger, demanding respect and attention and the need to feel in command. It is worth noting that it may be difficult to tell whether the I is the real person or whether they are hiding behind their persona, their social mask. The mask is a defensive manoeuvre. It is the real person that needs to be addressed in a divination. See Appendix 5. Cultural Depictions: Superman, Clint Eastwood in the Spaghetti westerns and as Dirty Harry. James Bond amongst many others heroes. This is best exemplified in Joseph Campbells book, The Hero with a thousand Faces, (1949/1993).

A waxing one represents a surge of individual power and energy in the direction of the other number on the domino. The larger the number, the greater the determination and drive of the individual to achieve.

A waning one can represent a loss of certainty or confidence. It may also suggest alienation from family, friends or a specific situation. It suggests a fall back or return to relying just on oneself rather than co-operating with others.

If doubled it indicates a very strong individuality on the one hand. Or a strong need to be alone, associated with a withdrawal from social activities.

14

Associated ideas Single, separate, independent, sole, distinct, distinctive, peculiar, special, unique, exclusive, unusual, unorthodox, idiosyncratic, different, on-ones-own, solitary, unassisted, unaided, lonely, deserted, isolated, abandoned, committed, resolute, determined, devoted, tireless, tenacious, persistent, dogged, initiative, activity, vitality, drive, forcefulness, conflict, hostilities, imaginative, innovatory, original, inspired, resourceful, inventive, egocentric, self-obsessed, vain, thoughtless, egotistical, clever, wise, shrewd, ingenious, insightful, idealist, romantic . Creation, independence, new beginnings, striving forward, motivation, positivity and positiveness, originality, courage, ambition, progress, will power, pioneering, activity, raw energy, force, masculine attributes, assertive, successful, self, leadership, initiative, organizer, instinct, love, intuition, courageous achiever, strength, creativity, self-reliance, tenacious, forceful, authoritive, inspirational, leniency, attainment, happiness, glory, fame, unique, omniscience, fulfilment.

NOTES.

15

TWO:

Partnership(s)
The duality of two is very prominent in the natural world: day/night, black/white, up/down, north/south, male/female. In the human sphere it indicates partnerships of various sorts. Marriage, an intimate friend, a business partner or a confidante. All of which involve mutual dependence. The animals went into the ark two by two. The reference here is to the fact that for most animals, reproduction involves both the male and the female of the species. Humans are no exception and relationships are the foundation of a society. This duality between people can be outstandingly positive and productive or disagreeable and destructive. Two heads are better than one indicates that problem solving is easier if there is more than one person working alone. This is true of a therapist and client, and similarly, a diviner and his client. When positive it suggests balance, like-mindedness, compromise, compassion, companionship and communication. As well as harmony, support, diplomacy, empathy, understanding and co-operation. People who display these characteristics are unselfish team players sensitive to the needs of others. They usually appreciate both sides of an argument and act as good mediators. In the Hegelian dialectic, a thesis is countered by its antithesis resulting in a new creative solution a synthesis. Two can indicate harmony reached between two sides where before there was disagreement. It may include the sharing of resources, information or benefits. Negative Aspects: Two-person relationships can involve rivalry, opposition, insensitivity and lack of emotion. One partner can be indecisive, unstable and unloving. They may also fear being alone and feel threatened by change, which exacerbates their low self-esteem and lack of self-confidence. Two may carry the connotation of being second best having failed to come first, with the resulting frustration. Cultural Depictions: Adam and Eve, Sherlock Holmes and Dr Watson, Batman and Robin, Starsky and Hutch. On the anti-social side, Bonnie and Clyde.

A waxing two suggests a creative and productive partnership, and a drawing together of the two individuals or sides.

A waning two suggests disagreement, separation and the dissolution of an existing partnership. An end to cooperation. A lack of harmony.

If doubled it indicates a vibrant and creative partnership going from strength to strength. Or serious problems in intimate relationships.

16

Associated ideas Apportion, allocate, measure out, contribute to, take part in, be involved in, collaboration, team work, liaison, synergy, combined effort, coalition, union, alliance, relationship, business, association, partnerships, obligation, duty, tie, arrangement, dedication, devotion, alliance, loyalty, fidelity, contract, pact, decision, unite, attach, bind, participate in, join in, band together, get together, secondary, lesser, inferior, lower, subordinate, detach, disengage, split-up, sever, disentangle, disband, divorce, discord, conflict, feud, enmity, disagreement, disunion, service, balance, love, harmony, adaptability, diplomacy, charm, friendliness, musical rhythm, receptivity, consideration for others, co-operation, personal will, understanding, diplomat, friend, artist, enduring peacemaker, gentle, kind, insightful, sensitive, team-player, ambitious, spirituality, well-mannered, placid, just, unselfish, sociable, supportive, attention to detail, co-operative, decisive, poise, intuitive, adaptable, agreeable, cautious, considerate, emotional, flexible, loving, understanding, consideration, grace, devotion, the subconscious, mediation, Divine life purpose, faith and trust, partnership, encouragement, happiness.

NOTES:

17

THREE:

Intimate Circle
Three has many religious and mythical connections: three wishes, three witches, the Christian Trinity. Three Fates, three Furies and three Muses to name but a few of the Greek threesomes. This suggests the importance of the dynamics involved in an intimate threesome. Twos company, threes a crowd. This expresses the potential difficulties in human relationships: the problem of actual and perceived loyalties. Three represents the first expansion from the simply duality of two. As such it suggests social activity based on inspiration, imagination, motivation and enthusiasm. It may mean a sociable personality, even the life and soul of the party. This entails good communication, being positive and optimistic, fostering harmony and acting as a good mediator. This versatility leads to co-operation from others. Three can also represent the family with two parents and a child. Such a situation can be both rewarding and stressful. Also the extension of life outside the family into social and work-based relationships that are more than simply casual. Negative Aspects: Three might indicate jealousy, impulsiveness, bad temper, nervousness, and insecurity. The person may be highly critical of others yet be hedonistic themselves. They could also lack direction, be indifferent and fail to finish projects. Cultural Depictions: The Three Musketeers, the Three Amigos. A fairly common, but negative scenario, is the love triangle.

A waxing three can represent optimism and confidence. An awareness of new possibilities in the future.

A waning three can herald frustration and pessimism, even anger against others.

If doubled it indicates a concentration on happy family life and devoted and rewarding relationships. Or an intolerance of others and their beliefs and views.

18

Associated ideas Allegiance, faithfulness, adherence, devotion, trustworthiness, hope, probability, mystic, other-worldly, sacred, devotional, confidence, positiveness, buoyant, assured, persuaded, assertive, poised, unruffled, pious, reverent, doctrinal, devout, godly, fiendish, diabolical, infernal, devilish, evil, wicked, possessed, manic, unfaithful, cheating, disloyal, untrustworthy, false, deceitful, pessimistic, cynic, sceptic, suspicious, doubting, depressed, union, fusion, working together, making, creation, Joy, artistic expression, optimism, inspiration, creativity, communication and communicative, good takes, talent, imagination, sociability, friendliness, conception, kindness, compassion, manifesting and manifestation, easy going, visionary, humorous, energetic, growth, expansion, principles of increase, spontaneous, broadminded thinking, kindness, encouragement, assistance, speech, faith, hope and charity, culture, wit, fun-loving, freedom-seeking, brave, adventurous, exuberant, brilliant, non-confrontational, open-channel, free-form, rhythm, love of pleasure, passion, surprise, intelligence, sensitivity, psychic ability, social, self-expression, affable, enthusiastic, youthful, enlivening, imagination.

NOTES.

19

FOUR:

The Community
Four is part of our common experience. Traditionally there are four elements (water, earth, wind and fire), four seasons, the four phases of the moon, four directions, four humours (blood, yellow bile, black bile, and phlegm), four temperaments (sanguine, melancholic, choleric and phlegmatic). These fours suggest the basis for our experience of the world and our place in it. How we relate to things, people and situations. In Jungian psychology individuals are divided into four cognitive functions: Thinking, feeling, sensing and intuition. All individuals experience the world through these modalities, but some functions are more dominant for a person than others. Four is essentially about solidity and stability, epitomised by the four legs on tables and chairs. Having four grandparents further emphasises these qualities. It also indicates persistence, endurance, practicality, steadfastness and responsibility. All manifesting in an orderly and logical manner. Other noticeable traits include being precise, reliable, dependable, trustworthy and methodical. In total, being and feeling at home in the world. Negative aspects can include being rigid, stubborn, judgemental and inflexible. Also being too bossy and too serious. Cultural Depictions: The Four Musketeers, The Fantastic Four, The four Mutant Teenage Ninja Turtles. The Gang of Four who led the Chinese Communist Party at the end of the Cultural Revolution. On the negative side the four horsemen of the Apocalypse are the agents of doom and destruction.

A waxing four indicates order out of chaos. A safe and secure place in the world through self-awareness and stability.

A waning four predicts possible insecurity, confusion, breakdown and loss.

If doubled it indicates a sense of joy with life and ones position in the world. Or a feeling of despair and depression with what life has to offer.

20

Associated ideas Place, situation, grounded, position, setting, stability, steadiness, security, normality, rationality, reason, move towards, draw closer, near, understand, knowledge, figure out, realize, be aware of, recognize, acknowledge, stance, orientation, firm, set, unshakeable, authoritative, convincing, implausible, dubious, doubtful, unrealistic, weak, ineffectual, bewilderment, perplexity, disarray, turmoil, upheaval, disruption, disorganisation, chaos, shambles, fail, collapse, crumble, disintegrate, practical and practicality, exactitude, organization, service, patience, application, devotion, conservatism, pragmatism, patriotism, dignity, trust, endurance, worthiness, economy, loyalty, mastery, production, solid foundations, hard work and hardworking, security-conscious, selfcontrol, loyal, conscientious, high morals, traditional values, honesty, strong-willed, wisdom, imperturbable, determination, serious builder, progress, doer, manager, traditional, solid foundations, realistic values, stability, ability, justice, goal-orientated, system, order, management, responsibility, maintenance, constructive, determined, serious, discipline, dependability, conviction, passion and drive.

NOTES.

21

FIVE:

The Wider World

There are five vowels, and five fingers on each hand. Words and hands are both means of communication. The hands especially are capable of many emotions, from inflicting hurt to expressing tenderness. Our five fingers can denote physical creativity: making, building, constructing and also the arts painting, dance, creative writing, music and the like. We also have five senses: sight, hearing, touch, smell and taste. It is through our senses that we understand and organize our world, and share our experiences with others. This may involve a concern for balance and harmony, order and perfection. Although not exclusively concerning the fine arts, nevertheless a focus on artistic endeavours. The are five oceans (Pacific, Atlantic, Indian, Arctic and Antarctic) with the five parts of the geographical world: Europe, Asia, Africa, America, Oceania An orientation towards adventure, exploration, variety, sensuality and seeking knowledge. Being restless, visionary, free thinking, curious, versatile, imaginative and adaptable. Wanting to have fun and be playful. Negative Aspects: Include impatience, lack of discipline and order, irresponsibility and taking too many risks. As well as disliking confinement and routine, and being vulgar, immoral and profligate. In this context a bunch of fives suggests aggression and belligerence. Cultural Depictions: Five is traditionally related to the pentagram, which when imposed on the human figure represents humanity in general.

A waxing five suggests new adventures and new enthusiasms. New experiences with new people.

A waning five denotes withdrawal, fearfulness, anxiety and feeling under stress.

If doubled it indicates an intense social life and being involved in building in all its aspects. Or suffering from stresses and strains cause by friends and circumstances.

22 Associated ideas Tell, impart, report, recount, relate, disclose, divulge, broadcast, liaise, meet, talk, emotive, sentimental, emotional, contact, stroke, caress, embrace, feel, handle, hold, move, make use of, skilfulness, dexterity, ability, flair, expertise, journey, tour, voyage, traverse, roam, wanderings, expeditions , intrepid, valiant, daring, bold, audacious, brave, heroic, decisive, assured, forceful, insistent, determined ,nervous, scared, daunted, terrified, troubled, apprehensive, tense, strain, worry, pressure, taxing, traumatic, freedom, choice, change, understanding, life lessons learned through experience, versatility, variety, adaptability, curiosity, intelligence, progress, cleverness, life experiences, travel, adventure, non-attachment, sociability, companionability, release, surrender, freedom-loving, activity, influence, adventurer, sensualist, promoter, natural flair, vivacious, courageous, healthy, sympathetic, motivational, idealistic, unconventional, curiosity, intellectual, telepathic, experience, pleasureloving, vitality, visionary, expansion, opportunity, story-telling, imagination, individualism, healing, choice, mercy, kindness, invention, resourceful, magnetic, competitive.

NOTES.

23

SIX:

Universal Concerns
On cubical dice six is the maximum number, and in board games the throw of a six allows another throw of the die. In cricket, when a ball is hit over the boundary, it scores six runs. Six is the most perfect number as it is both the sum and the product of its parts. In Masonic symbolism, six signifies growth on a spiritual level. It also indicates compassion, enlightenment, mental and spiritual balance and forgiveness. Six represents harmony, beauty, nurturing, responsibility and service. Also understanding, empathy, sacrifice and generosity along with kindness, commitment and humility. Negative Aspects: It may suggest a superiority complex, being selfish and impractical, self-righteous and egotistical. Or too emotional, overly sentimental and susceptible to flattery. Cultural Depictions: In the book of Genesis God creates the world in six days and then rests. Creation is not instant but takes place over time in an organised fashion. It is on the sixth day that man is created. Six is therefore about the macrocosm the cosmos beyond the wider world. A sixth sense describes a person who is said to be psychic. Just Six Numbers: The Deep Forces That Shape The Universe, by Martin Rees . The genesis of the universe elegantly explained in a simple theory based on just six numbers.

The six cannot wax.

If waning it represents a decline in outward success and inner certainties, a loss of faith in fact. What was going well is now problematic.

If doubled it indicates outward success and inner wellbeing. Life is indeed rosy. Or negatively, it could herald an antagonistic attitude to life.

24 Associated ideas Successful, triumph, wealth, riches, compatibility, agreement, peace, friendship, co-operation, consensus, rapport, union, oneness, benefit from, gain from, put to good use, invest, take care of, tend, support, rear, raise, clairvoyance, second sight, understanding, knowledge, awareness, insight, perception, convinced, assured, trustworthy, magical, mystical, metaphysical, confidence, sureness, conviction ,assurance, unsure, doubtful, unknown, unsuccessful, fruitless, futile, worthless, useless, love, harmony, family, home, responsibility, musical talent, sympathy, adjustment, domesticity, guardianship, parenthood, stability, poise, protection, firmness, healing, idealism, balance, justice, conscientiousness, burden-fearing, service, solutions, seeing, responsible, care, teacher, conventional, provider, protector, healer, idealistic, selfless, honest, charitable, faithful, nurturer, truth, order, economy, emotional depth, curiosity, humanitarian, unselfishness, balance, good provider, peaceful, self-sacrifice, empathy, sympathy, unconditional love, circulation, agriculture, balance, grace, simplicity, ability to compromise, reliable, provision and providing, material needs, honesty and integrity.

NOTES:

25

Appendix 1

Maslows hierarchy is designed to show how once certain needs are satisfied, the individual then turns his attention to other goals. For example, until an individual feels safe and secure, they are unlikely to contemplate starting a family. I have included this diagram as its developmental stages have an affinity with the development of the domino number from 0, hiddenness to 6, enlightenment.

0: The unborn child and the youngster are both motivated by basic biological and physiological needs, most of
which are unconscious. The baby simply cries until it is fed, with little conscious awareness.

1: For an individual to survive, he must feel safe and secure in a predictable environment. Working for a living is
impossible in the midst of chaos.

2: It takes two to tango. Individuals seek affection and family life. This is often the basis for good working and
social relationships. Humans are essentially social animals.

26

3: The family brings numerous responsibilities. The work place and important social connections bring
achievement and status.

4: How we understand the world and our place in it is a question of meaning. This may involve philosophical or
religious quests. It is a time for introspection to discover who we are for ourselves.

5: Once we are settled and secure we can be creative in the world. Not just in the fines arts but also in managing
various activities, e.g. Working with children, scouts, sporting and adventure activities. Finding beauty and satisfaction in both the large and small details of ones life.

6: Enlightenment is finding a meaning in life beyond the everyday. It is a knowing or sensing the answer to why are
we here. It may involve a mystical appreciation of the cosmos.

27

Appendix 2

Cassandra Easons List of Correspondences.

0.

Saturday

Saturn

grey/purple

Lead

1.

Sunday

Sun

gold

Gold

2.

Monday

Moon

silver/white

Silver

3.

Tuesday

Mars

red

Iron

4.

Wednesday

Mercury

yellow

Mercury

5.

Thursday

Jupiter

blue

Tin

6.

Friday

Venus

pink/pale purple

Copper

Hers is a rather basic list. Interestingly it appears that the planets she lists are the same as the major planets in Babylonian astrology, dating back to the third millennium BCE. If you are interested in correspondences between numbers and other systems of classification or divination, youll need to consult books on magical correspondences. There are at least three that I know of. There is also the ubiquitous Internet where you can find almost anything.

Looking up the correspondences for days, planet, colours etc etc can provide an additional perspective for each of the numbers. The correspondences may cohere or clash with my meanings. It is up to you what meaning you think each number best represents. I may well be out on a limb, but ultimately its all down to what works for you and your intuition.

28

Appendix 3 Key Words and Attributes for Numbers by Richard Pace

(http://www.accessnewage.com/numerology/NUMLISTS.HTM)

Number meanings for Positive Attributes 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. Leadership Cooperation Optimistic Discipline Versatile Loving Mystical Strength Tolerance

Number meanings for Negative Attributes 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. Fearfulness Faultfinding Lying Rigid Overindulgent Unreliable Moody Materialistic Selfishness

The Colour of Numbers 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. Red Orange Yellow Green Turquoise Blue Purple Peach Saffron

The Gems of Numbers 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. Ruby Moonstone Topaz Emerald Aquamarine Sapphire Amethyst Diamond Opal

The Crystals of Numbers 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. Garnet Rutile Galena Tinstone Muscovite Indicolite Alexandrite Morganite Alum

The Planets of the Numbers 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. The Sun The Moon Venus Saturn Mars Jupiter Mercury The Sun All

When compared to Easons list it is apparent that no two diviners have the same set of correspondences. If you are using correspondences in your readings, just stick to one system and avoid any confusion.

29

Appendix 4
Divining with two dominoes using the face numbers.
With a little experience it is possible to use just the numbers on domino faces to engage in a reading.

1. Put all the dominoes face down on a table or board and shuffle them around. 2. Pose the question or let the client state the question. 3. Select one domino. Before turning it over to read the numbers ensure it is horizontal, so that when you turn it over there will be one number on the left and another on the right of the domino. 4. Read the text for the left number, then the right and finally weld them together taking account of the information below. This is where you allow you intuition full reign. 5. Depending on the two numbers you may have a waxing or waning pair, or even a double. You will therefore take the following into consideration. Double. This represents a situation in harmony, stable or unaffected by outside influences or even internal ones. There seems little that is changing. However this may either be positive or negative.

Waxing numbers. This is where the left number is less than the number on the right. For instance: The difference 4:5 1:3 2:5 1:5 1:6 0:6 1 2 3 4 5 6 The meaning almost imperceptible improvement or change slight improvement or alteration significant change or improvement pronounced improvement or change large scale and very significant changes massive and unequivocal improvement, change, development

Waning numbers. This is when the number on the left is larger than on the right. For instance: The difference 3:2 5:3 4:1 6:2 6:1 6:0 1 2 3 4 5 6 The meaning almost unnoticed slide into decline slight setback or decrease significant decrease, setbacks or problems pronounced decline or setback large scale decline and decrease monumental setback, decrease or chaos

30 The fact of waxing or waning or even doubling adds an extra dimension to the divination by modifying the reading appropriate to each number.

The Reading
The first domino selected represents the here and now of the question: What is happening in the present. The reading will take the clients question and set it against the reading of the two numbers on the domino and their modifications. This by itself may be sufficient to satisfy the questioner. However, if this is not the case, a second domino can be randomly selected and the process used to read the first domino repeated for the second. The second domino represents the likely development of factors already nascent in the present. The present contains the seed which will germinate and influence the future, one way or another. Any divination using the two dominoes should take this emerging into account. In addition there are boxes containing Associated ideas. These are an aid to find the right word to express what you see in the divinatory text, or to help you unwrap the texts meaning. Similarly Appendix 1 provides another aspect to the divination which may be appropriate to consider or not, as the case may be.

Here it is shown in diagrammatic form A B Reading A affects reading B C D Reading C affects reading D Conclusion A/B affects C/D Conclusion

Final Divination

Domino Dynamics
It should be emphasised that even a single domino represent a dynamic changing situation. One number changes to another and the changes express increase / decrease /flow/ development / transition /alterations/ flux. Thus when reading the first or present domino, the numbers tell of the current external or internal dynamics behind the current situation and the clients question. The second domino represents the further development that has its roots in the first domino.

Responding to Readings
When the domino (es) are read, they describe a changing situation. However it is not set in stone. Unlike fortune telling, it doesnt describe a fixed and unalterable fate. The reading allows the enquirer to understand what is happening in his life and take appropriate action. If a situation is worsening or declining, he can act to limit the damage, or he can decide to adopt a different viewpoint or even change direction to avoid any pitfalls. If the

31 situation is improving, he can make the best of the opportunities available or use it as a springboard for further plans and projects.

Remember
There is no right or wrong to a reading. Its all about the fit between the enquirer, the diviner and the reading. In African divination systems, the Sangoma spends a good deal of his time adjusting his reading so that the enquirer feels he has been told something significant, useful and pertinent to his circumstances.

Transitional Domino. There may be occasions when further information is sought regarding the transition from present circumstances to the potential future development. Generally the readings for the two dominoes should take care of the change from now to then, when correctly and comprehensively interpreted. However it is possible to obtain a further reading which specifically addresses this issue of transition: The two dominoes are selected and read according to the previous instructions, but now an additional domino is constructed from the right half of the left domino, and the left half from the right domino as is shown in the diagram.

This created domino represents the process of transforming the present into the future. It is the bridge between the two and can reveal how the specific process of transition operates. Clearly correct interpretation is of the essence. This skill will come once you are familiar with the attributes of the numbers and have had extensive practice in readings. Appendix 7 has a template using the arrangement shown above. Appendix 8 shows a different template that can be used in a reading. It has the advantage that waxing, waning and doubling can be seen at a glance. Using the same dominoes selected, as above, the template is completed as shown. The transitional domino is seen as a combination of the right face on the left domino and the left face of the right domino.

32 Left Domino Left Face 6 5 4 3 2 1 0 Right Face Left Face Right Domino Right Face

Final Note
Many books suggest that one should read the dominoes for an enquirer, but never oneself. I think I have some sympathy with this. We all have blind spots and unconscious desires and I think these may well intrude when we try to conduct a divination for ourselves. But, nevertheless we may still need the knowledge from a divination, so I think we just have to be circumspect. The advantage of reading for an enquirer is that the dialogue between you, the texts and the enquirer are open to adjustment and fine-tuning. Quite often people ask for readings but ask the wrong questions. Either they have not thought it through or else they are avoiding the real issue. The diviner, with experience, can get to the real question that the enquirer wants answered and adjust the reading to reflect this.

33

Appendix 5
Defence mechanisms
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Defence_mechanisms

The characteristics of the blank domino are unconscious and therefore necessarily hidden. However, unconscious elements can enter consciousness albeit in disguised form. Freud pointed this out in his psycho-analytic writings and others have refined his ideas. It is very important, therefore, to be aware of how and what happens, otherwise one is at the mercy of emotional and irrational thoughts and behaviours. Gaining insight by introspection or with the assistance of a trusted friend is, I think, essential. This must be considered as part of the Wisdom of Dominoes. In Freudian psychoanalytic theory defence mechanisms are psychological strategies brought into play by the unconscious mind to manipulate, deny, or distort reality (through processes including, but not limited to, Repression, Identification, or Rationalization), and to maintain a socially acceptable self-image or self-schema. Healthy persons normally use different defences throughout life. An ego defence mechanism becomes pathological only when its persistent use leads to maladaptive behaviour such that the physical and/or mental health of the individual is adversely affected. The purpose of ego defence mechanisms is to protect the mind/self/ego from anxiety and/or social sanctions and/or to provide a refuge from a situation with which one cannot currently cope. In George Eman Vaillant's (1977) categorization, defences form a continuum related to their psychoanalytical developmental level Vaillant's levels are: Level I - pathological defences (i.e. psychotic denial, delusional projection) Level II - immature defences (i.e. fantasy, projection, passive aggression, acting out) Level III - neurotic defences (i.e. intellectualization, reaction formation, dissociation, displacement, repression) Level IV - mature defences (i.e. humour, sublimation, suppression, altruism, anticipation).

Level 1 - Pathological
The mechanisms on this level, when predominating, almost always are severely pathological. These six defences, in conjunction, permit one to effectively rearrange external experiences to eliminate the need to cope with reality. The pathological users of these mechanisms frequently appear irrational or insane to others. These are the "psychotic" defences, common in overt psychosis. However, they are found in dreams and throughout childhood as well. They include: Delusional Projection: Delusions about external reality, usually of a persecutory nature. Conversion: the expression of an intrapsychic conflict as a physical symptom; some examples include blindness, deafness, paralysis, or numbness. This phenomenon is sometimes called hysteria. [18] Defence mechanisms 4 Denial: Refusal to accept external reality because it is too threatening; arguing against an anxiety-provoking stimulus by stating it doesn't exist; resolution of emotional conflict and reduction of anxiety by refusing to perceive or consciously acknowledge the more unpleasant aspects of external reality. Distortion: A gross reshaping of external reality to meet internal needs. Splitting: A primitive defence. Negative and positive impulses are split off and unintegrated. Fundamental example: An individual views other people as either innately good or innately evil, rather than as an individual who is defined by his or her actions. Extreme projection: The blatant denial of a moral or psychological deficiency, which is perceived as a deficiency in another individual or group.

Level 2 - Immature
These mechanisms are often present in adults. These mechanisms lessen distress and anxiety provoked by threatening people or by uncomfortable reality. Excessive use of such defences is seen as socially undesirable in that

34 they are immature, difficult to deal with and seriously out of touch with reality. These are the so-called "immature" defences and overuse almost always leads to serious problems in a person's ability to cope effectively. These defences are often seen in major depression and personality disorders. They include: Acting out: Direct expression of an unconscious wish or impulse in action, without conscious awareness of the emotion that drives that expressive behaviour. Fantasy: Tendency to retreat into fantasy in order to resolve inner and outer conflicts. Idealization: Unconsciously choosing to perceive another individual as having more positive qualities than he or she may actually have.[19] Passive aggression: Aggression towards others expressed indirectly or passively such as using procrastination. Projection: Projection is a primitive form of paranoia. Projection also reduces anxiety by allowing the expression of the undesirable impulses or desires without becoming consciously aware of them; attributing one's own unacknowledged unacceptable/unwanted thoughts and emotions to another; includes severe prejudice, severe jealousy, hyper vigilance to external danger, and "injustice collecting". It is shifting one's unacceptable thoughts, feelings and impulses within oneself onto someone else, such that those same thoughts, feelings, beliefs and motivations are perceived as being possessed by the other. Projective identification: The object of projection invokes in that person precisely the thoughts, feelings or behaviours projected. Somatisation: The transformation of negative feelings towards others into negative feelings toward self, pain, illness, and anxiety.

Level 3 - Neurotic
These mechanisms are considered neurotic, but fairly common in adults. Such defences have short-term advantages in coping, but can often cause long-term problems in relationships, work and in enjoying life when used as one's primary style of coping with the world. They include: Displacement: Defence mechanism that shifts sexual or aggressive impulses to a more acceptable or less threatening target; redirecting emotion to a safer outlet; separation of emotion from its real object and redirection of the intense emotion toward someone or something that is less offensive or threatening in order to avoid dealing directly with what is frightening or threatening. For example, a mother may yell at her child because she is angry with her husband. Dissociation: Temporary drastic modification of one's personal identity or character to avoid emotional distress; separation or postponement of a feeling that normally would accompany a situation or thought. Defence mechanisms 5 Hypochondriasis: An excessive preoccupation or worry about having a serious illness. Intellectualization: A form of isolation; concentrating on the intellectual components of a situation so as to distance oneself from the associated anxiety-provoking emotions; separation of emotion from ideas; thinking about wishes in formal, affectively bland terms and not acting on them; avoiding unacceptable emotions by focusing on the intellectual aspects (e.g. isolation, rationalization, ritual, undoing, compensation, magical thinking). Isolation: Separation of feelings from ideas and events, for example, describing a murder with graphic details with no emotional response. Rationalization (making excuses): Where a person convinces him or herself that no wrong was done and that all is or was all right through faulty and false reasoning. An indicator of this defence mechanism can be seen socially as the formulation of convenient excuses - making excuses. Reaction formation: Converting unconscious wishes or impulses that are perceived to be dangerous into their opposites; behaviour that is completely the opposite of what one really wants or feels; taking the opposite belief because the true belief causes anxiety. This defence can work effectively for coping in the short term, but will eventually break down. Regression: Temporary reversion of the ego to an earlier stage of development rather than handling unacceptable impulses in a more adult way. Repression: The process of attempting to repel desires towards pleasurable instincts, caused by a threat of suffering if the desire is satisfied; the desire is moved to the unconscious in the attempt to prevent it from entering consciousness;[20] seemingly unexplainable naivety, memory lapse or lack of awareness of one's own situation

35 and condition; the emotion is conscious, but the idea behind it is absent. Undoing: A person tries to 'undo' an unhealthy, destructive or otherwise threatening thought by acting out the reverse of unacceptable. Involves symbolically nullifying an unacceptable or guilt provoking thought, idea, or feeling by confession or atonement. Withdrawal: Withdrawal is a more severe form of defence. It entails removing oneself from events, stimuli, interactions, etc. under the fear of being reminded of painful thoughts and feelings.

Level 4 - Mature
These are commonly found among emotionally healthy adults and are considered mature, even though many have their origins in an immature stage of development. They have been adapted through the years in order to optimize success in life and relationships. The use of these defences enhances pleasure and feelings of control. These defences help us to integrate conflicting emotions and thoughts, whilst still remaining effective. Those who use these mechanisms are usually considered virtuous. They include: Altruism: Constructive service to others that brings pleasure and personal satisfaction. Anticipation: Realistic planning for future discomfort. Humour: Overt expression of ideas and feelings (especially those that are unpleasant to focus on or too terrible to talk about) that gives pleasure to others. The thoughts retain a portion of their innate distress, but they are "skirted round" by witticism, for example Self-deprecation. Identification: The unconscious modelling of one's self upon another person's character and behaviour. Introjection: Identifying with some idea or object so deeply that it becomes a part of that person. Sublimation: Transformation of negative emotions or instincts into positive actions, behaviour, or emotion. Thought suppression: The conscious process of pushing thoughts into the preconscious; the conscious decision to delay paying attention to an emotion or need in order to cope with the present reality; making it possible to later access uncomfortable or distressing emotions whilst accepting them.

36

Appendix6
http://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/compassion-matters/201010/being-good-therapist-and-being-good-parent-require-the-same-skills

Care of your Client

When you conduct a reading for your client you have two areas to consider. Firstly and primarily, your client with his/her question(s). As the reading progresses you may well discover the question behind the question that brought your client to see you. The second area is of course the reading itself. This is partly the words of the text itself, but also your interpretation as you follow your intuition. In effect you are part of a triangle that seeks to enable your client to reach a conclusion about their next course of action. You have a dialogue with your client and the reading, seeking to weld the two together. In many ways this is similar to counselling a client, and the skills required are the same. As a reminder I have included a list of basic counselling skills below. Not all may be necessary depending on what sort of relationship you maintain with your clients.

Research into what makes psychotherapy effective has shown that the most important element that brings about therapeutic progress is a good working relationship between the therapist and client. The personal qualities of the therapist largely set the tone and the emotional impact of the therapy process. A good therapist is real and authentic Being open and non-defensive is essential. Not having a judgmental attitude and being compassionate and forthright in communication style is also important. A good therapist does not fit clients into a particular theoretical framework or model but instead, relates to them as real people. The ideal therapist refrains from placing social conformity above the personal interests of a client. Rather than attempting to remove or cover up emotional pain to fit clients into society, it is important to help them learn to cope with the realities of life and maintain their individuality. The good therapist is interested in learning from clients and feeling with them and is willing to experience the painful personal truths clients reveal over the course of treatment. This open attitude and approach to clients, together with the therapist's ability to access and regulate his/her own emotions, permit him/her to be in tune with the deepest levels of a client's verbal and nonverbal communication. A good therapist relates as an equal and not from a superior role Effective therapy takes place in the context of a respectful, equal therapeutic alliance between two individuals. A therapist does not operate as an all-knowing doctor to an inferior client. He/she does not assume a posture of omnipotence or condescension. Rather than acting out a role, the therapist is fully conscious that both he/she and the client are human beings deserving the same respect. The equality of psychotherapy is evident in its inherent nonintrusiveness; that is, in the therapist's acknowledgment of a client's basic worth and right to an individual existence. A good therapist is consistent A therapist provides consistency and stability. Ideally the therapist has the ability to be present and is comfortable with the expression of feeling. The therapist must have the maturity to suspend his/her own needs and priorities during the session so that his/her responses to the client's communications can build trust. At times when the therapist is mis-attuned and responds in a way that disrupts the therapeutic alliance, he/she acknowledges this error and with the client, "talks it through" so as to repair the rupture to their relationship and move forward with therapy. This talking through involves the therapist having a dual focus, one part being on their internal experience and another being the experience of the client. The therapist invites the client to express how he/she experiences the rupture and validates his/ her reality of how he/she experienced the event. The therapist can then re-establish rapport and connection with the client. A good therapist exhibits honesty and integrity. It is important that a therapist conduct his/her personal life with integrity and personal honesty. Because the client is in such a vulnerable position, he/she is impacted by the subtleties of a therapist's interpersonal style of relating when a therapist lacks integrity.

37 A good therapist is a role model In the course of therapy, the therapist is inadvertently acting as a role model for clients. He/she is modelling an interest in self-exploration, an accepting attitude toward feeling, and the ability to regulate feelings and behaviour. The therapist is also exhibiting a style of relating to another person that is respectful, compassionate and equal. What happens in therapy? The therapeutic process is essentially one of inquiry in which the therapist listens with empathy and compassion, in an attempt to get to know and understand the client. The therapist suspends judgment while intuitively searching, wondering, and questioning: "How is this person feeling?" "What is this person experiencing?" In psychotherapy, there is a strong emphasis on freedom of speech and expression of feeling. In the therapy setting, clients are able to express themselves unhampered by the rules of logic or censorship. This allows them to think clearly and to gain insight into themselves. The therapist refrains from punishing or rejecting clients for their communications, no matter how distorted or negative. Clients come to understand, on an emotional level, that any thought or feeling is acceptable. The client learns to control actions In conjunction with encouraging clients to freely express and explore their feelings, the therapist teaches clients to confront and examine the consequences of their behaviour. Maladaptive responses and acting out behaviours are exposed and evaluated in the nonjudgmental and non-punitive atmosphere of the therapy session. Clients learn to act in accordance with their personal values and standards, and thereby represent themselves accurately and live with integrity. The therapist directly and implicitly teaches clients that feelings are not equivalent to actions: that is, while they are accountable for their actions, any and all feelings, thoughts, dreams, or fantasies are morally acceptable and valid subject matter. Termination The therapist anticipates the termination phase of therapy by continually encouraging the independent development of healthy autonomy in clients. Excessive dependency or attempts by clients to seek gratification from the therapist are discouraged. In therapy, the issues surrounding termination are dealt with sensitively and compassionately.

38

Appendix 7
Two Dominoes Readings Template Question:
Present Potential Date:

Transitional

(Optional)

Key Comments:

39

Appendix 8
Domino Reading Template 2 Question:
Left Domino Left Face Right Face 6 5 4 3 2 1 0 Right Domino Left Face Right Face

Date:

Key Comments:

40

Appendix 9

The What and How of Divination A Personal View.

Abridged from my De-mythologising and De-mystifying the I Ching.
The consultation process in divination is quite simple: A problem is acknowledged which has no immediate solution. An oracle is consulted and provides a random text, by one method or another. The individual links the reading to the problem and wrestles with both to obtain a new understanding. The individual acts on the knowledge obtained and solves the problem.

Essentially the ambiguous words or concepts from the reading, applied to the situation, provide an opportunity for creative thinking. No divinatory method gives you an unambiguous answer, there is no sage guiding the process, there is no dialogue between you and your particular oracle. You and your brain in partnership do all the work to find a resolution. A psychological concept that is useful here is cognitive dissonance. It explains why the brain is motivated to reconcile conflicting ideas, concepts or elements. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cognitive_dissonance). While searching the Web, I found this article by John Malouff, Ph.D., J.D. Over Fifty Problem Solving Strategies Explained. It was interesting to note that many of the strategies parallel how divinatory systems work. (http://www.une.edu.au/bcss/psychology/john-malouff/problem-solving.php). There are many other sites on the Internet that deal with problem solving / creativity / insight. If you have an unresolved problem you could try out some of the strategies suggested, e.g. brainstorming and Lateral Thinking. You might find that they can work better than your chosen oracle, or maybe not. You have the choice of how you solve your problems, and there are many, many alternatives. Ive taken this well known understanding of Insight from Wikipedia: Creative insights and illuminations may be explained by a process consisting of 5 stages: (i) Preparation (preparatory work on a problem that focuses the individual's mind on the problem and explores the problem's dimensions), (ii) Incubation (where the problem is internalized into the unconscious mind and nothing appears externally to be happening). This would be the stage where the oracle text is placed in the unconscious and interacts with elements of the problem already internalized. (My insertion). (iii) Intimation (the creative person gets a "feeling" that a solution is on its way), (iv) Illumination or insight (where the creative idea bursts forth from its preconscious processing into conscious awareness); and (v) Verification (where the idea is consciously verified, elaborated, and then applied). One doesnt have to resort to out-dated mythic explanations or philosophies to understand how divinatory systems help in generating solutions to problems.

Conclusion: The Tarot, I Ching, Runes and Dominoes etc are not magical, mystical or inhabited by some spiritual being. If you believe this you need to check out the psychology of projection and anthropomorphism. These oracles work by selecting specific words and concepts. A reading is a specific selection from those words.

41 To act as a catalyst, the words and ideas need to be ambiguous with a rich variety of meanings. The words, internalized by the client, allow a different perspective on the problem. Such thinking, outside the box, is what results in the solution. It is the individual NOT the oracle that solves the problem. Any creative dialogue is in your own head. There are many other divinatory systems, I dont think any can claim superiority. There are many creative problem solving techniques. Divinatory systems can claim no superiority over them either.

Corollaries Any oracular system is probably as good as any other. Every reading is unique to you and your situation. It cannot be compared to the same reading received by someone else. They are incomparableThe individuals and circumstances are totally different. You cannot step into the same river twice. Every reading you receive is totally new and only appropriate to the situation that required it. If a problem is solved you should congratulate yourself, not the oracle. To constantly consult any oracle may indicate a lack of self-confidence as, in general, it tends to be consulted only on major issues. Those who are very intuitive are unlikely to resort to oracles.

What an oracle is, is not an entity. It is not alive and so cannot care about the reader. The meaning of the oracle comes from the individual wrestling with the text vis vis the problematic situation. It certainly is a comforting thought that an oracle can form a partnership with us. It makes our problems seem more easily manageable. In a materialist world with its greed and pain we can do with as many friends as possible. However this is a case of psychological projection and wish-fulfilment that turns any oracle into that sort of sage. Having described it as a problem-solving tool, Ive listed some parallels between oracles and creative problem solving techniques. (From the Internet): 1. Randomness is a great asset in creativity. Brainstorming is one excellent way of doing this. Unfortunately even in the open-ended context of a brainstorm session there are some ideas that you simply won't come up with. They're just too weird, your internal censor deletes them before you even become conscious of them. That's where randomness comes in. Generating ideas at random turns off the censor totally. Random creativity is of most use, either when you're just starting a project or when you're completely stuck and even brainstorming has failed to produce an answer. The simplest way of creating randomly is to take a large number of file cards. On each one write a word or phrase associated with the problem (if you're stuck) or the general project domain (if you're just starting). Throw in a few "jokers", words or phrases with no immediate connection with the subject yet which have the potential to be interesting. When selecting the contents of the cards, try not to be too specific. You want flexibility, even ambiguity.

2. Use cards from a shuffled "idea" deck. The idea is simple: select a card from a shuffled deck, and act as though whatever the card says is directly relevant to your current problem. Some sample decks: Brian Eno's Oblique Strategies (designed for musicians and artists, but works for anything.) Roger von Oech's original Creative Whack Pack and Innovative Whack Pack. The IDEO Method Cards.

42

3. Random Words: When to use this. Use it to stimulate open and divergent thinking and seek creative new ideas. Use it to re-ignite creative thinking when you are running out of ideas. Use it to get people out of a rut when their thinking is still rather conventional. Good random words are (a) evocative and (b) nothing to do with the problem being considered. Ambiguity also helps. Nouns are usually best, but verbs and adjectives can also be used effectively. 4. Randomly introduce things from completely unrelated domains If you aggregate home improvement stories, for example, have a place where you insert a semi-random--but high quality--post from a non-home-improvement field. 5. In problem-solving contexts, the random-word creativity technique is perhaps the simplest method. A person confronted with a problem is presented with a randomly generated word, in the hopes of a solution arising from any associations between the word and the problem. A random image, sound, or article can be used instead of a random word as a kind of creativity goad or provocation. Collectively, there are several hundred techniques published in books on creative thinking. Techniques are like tools in a workshop, with different tools for different parts of the creative process. For example, there are techniques for defining a problem, exploring attributes of a problem, generating alternatives, visual explorations, metaphors, analogies, and evaluating and implementing ideas. The following hyperlink gives many examples: http://members.optusnet.com.au/charles57/Creative/Techniques

A similar approach is outlined in Erwin Hessles article: The Value of Divination. http://www.erwinhessle.com/writings/valuediv.php

43

Appendix 10

The Body as Oracle.

In his book, Creative Throw, (no longer available on the Internet), Andreas Gerolemou makes some interesting observations. According to Tor Norretranders our conscious minds only process up to forty (40) bits of information per second, where as our non-conscious minds can process up to eleven million (11,000,000) bits per second. Our non-conscious minds handle all the microstates that enter through our senses, all the little details that surround us....These details are often too overwhelming and do not play such an important part individually...but form part of the macrostates that our conscious minds use to communicate. Because the non-conscious processes, filters and summarises the incoming information, the original input is lost and we cannot truly experience it first hand, we only experience the condensed macrostate as information. The non-conscious works primarily on the principle of association (I would also suggest pattern making), it associates related and similar subjects....... (the basis) of our ability to create metaphors and symbols. Divination...could allow us to improve the relationship between the conscious and the non-conscious...

I quote from his book to emphasise that our self awareness is such a tiny aspect of consciousness. We take on board so much more information than we are aware of. An example of this in practice is the recall, under hypnosis, of facts that the individual wasnt aware of but had obviously seen.

Barbara Tedlock, ph.d., in her article, Toward a Theory of Divinatory Practice, writes the following summary: Recent findings in biophysics indicate that cognition is found not only in the brain and nervous system but also throughout the entire protein matrix of our bodies, most especially in our connective tissues. Divination is a way of knowing that depends only partly on cognitive information from our brains and nervous system. It also depends, perhaps to a larger extent, on the electronic conduction of information stored throughout the tissues of our bodies. The mind/brain/body interaction is currently under the spotlight with many high tech investigations. We already have an awareness of some interactions. Here I am thinking of somatoform illnesses, where mental stress is displayed in the body rather than in consciousness. In both of these excerpts there is a clear indication that much information is located in the body as opposed to thinking solely in terms of the mind/brain. Divination is a process that aims to access these hidden sources of information. However there is the constant problem in divination, of translating the oracles symbolic and mythical language into terms the conscious mind/ego can understand. Practice and a developing intuition help in this. But there is a way to talk directly with the body. Eugene T. Gendlin in his book, Focussing. How to gain direct access to your bodys knowledge, provides a method to listen to your body as well as ask it questions. Ive copied the procedure below. The book is good and his website is: http://www.focusing.org/bios/gendlin_bio.html

44

Focusing: Short Form by Eugene Gendlin, Ph.D. 1. Clear a space

How are you? Whats between you and feeling fine? Dont answer; let what comes in your body do the answering. Dont go into anything. Greet each concern that comes. Put each aside for a while, next to you. Except for that, are you fine?

2. Felt Sense
Pick one problem to focus on. Dont go into the problem. What do you sense in your body when you sense the whole of that problem? Sense all of that, the sense of the whole thing, the murky discomfort or the unclear body-sense of it.

3. Get a handle
What is the quality of the felt sense? What one word, phrase, or image comes out of this felt sense? What quality-word would fit it best?

4. Resonate
Go back and forth between word (or image) and the felt sense. Is that right? If they match, have the sensation of matching several times. If the felt sense changes, follow it with your attention. When you get a perfect match, the words (images) being just right for this feeling, let yourself feel that for a minute.

5. Ask
"What is it, about the whole problem, that makes me so _________? When stuck, ask questions: What is the worst of this feeling? Whats really so bad about this? What does it need? What should happen? Dont answer; wait for the feeling to stir and give you an answer. What would it feel like if it was all OK? Let the body answer What is in the way of that?

6. Receive
Welcome what came. Be glad it spoke. It is only one step on this problem, not the last. Now that you know where it is, you can leave it and come back to it later. Protect it from critical voices that interrupt. Does your body want another round of focusing, or is this a good stopping place? I suggest that some self-divination becomes unnecessary if this method is used. In other cases it will enable the correct question to be formulated.

45 I have used Gendlins method and found that it has enabled me to find an accurate feeling for my mental state, rather than thinking in clichd labels. The book is an easy read and deals with the practicalities of this approach. Try it and see what happens. You only stand to lose your ignorance.

46

Domino Readings.
Until a more comprehensive set of readings are available, the following basic texts can be used. Or, using the guidelines in Appendix 4, you can derive your own readings for those dominoes that turn up in your divination sessions. You may also develop new readings when you read for a client, which you should save for further use. What is written here is not sacrosanct by any means.

Key
Bold type is a double domino.

Standard type is a waxing domino. Underlined Italic type is a waning domino.

0:0 Much energy and creativity is developing in your unconscious, of which you are unaware.

And/or there are hidden dynamics in your immediate surroundings. You can do nothing until the unconscious becomes conscious and available for evaluation. You will have to wait and watch for it to surface. With such a surplus of energy you will be able to achieve many things. CAUTION: Be aware that your negative as well as your positive energies may surface. Your Shadow can be destructive if not controlled and sublimated. Ideas just pop into your head and it is easy to make plans, consider new enterprises and change directions. Whether at home, work or in your social life, you are focussed on the future and improving your circumstances. CAUTION: Plans and ideas need to be tested before implementation.

0:1 You find yourself energised and creative.

0:2 You and your partner are in the process of planning for the future, whether this means a family, a house move
or changes at work. You are both full of ideas which you eagerly discuss. You have a sense that youre on the threshold of major and constructive changes. CAUTION: Two people can be as irrational and headstrong as one. Keep your feet on the ground.

0:3 To your surprise, your family/social or work group has jelled together.

There is a common consensus on where youre headed. This may involve moving house or some project at work or in the community. All seem to be of one mind. CAUTION: Crowd mentality can lead a group in the wrong direction.

0:4

In your life everything seems to be fitting into place. Your family/job/social life all seem to be secure and assured. Unexpectedly you feel at peace with yourself and your life circumstances. You life looks rock solid. CAUTION: There may be unsettling elements which you have not yet recognized. You find this surprising but exciting at the same time. You are motivated to discover more about nature as well as the arts. All those things you have neglected in the past. CAUTION: You still need to maintain the fundamentals of your life. As such, life is no longer mundane and common place but reveals hidden truths behind ordinary realities. You are drawn to yoga, meditation or other spiritual disciplines and/or religious groups. Meaning for you is all important. CAUTION: Watch out for unhealthy spiritual practices and group dynamics.

0:5 Creativity and adventure are now of primary importance.

0:6 Religion and spirituality have made an appearance in your life.

47

1:0 You sense the need to withdraw from your active life.

Introspection and self-examination seemed called for. You are waiting for guidance on what to do next. CAUTION: Withdrawing like a hermit can only be a temporary solution Your plans and aspirations are bearing fruit. Dynamic leadership has had a positive and beneficial effect and is achieving much. CAUTION: Restrain any tendencies to become dictatorial and take note of those less able than you. You need to share your vision/ideas/plans with another person. This may be your partner, workmate or a close friend. Working together will bring better and quicker results. CAUTION: Listen to your partner if they talk about your excesses and/or difficulties. This feels like an exciting time as you freely interact with others and find new friends and interests. Sometimes you are the life and soul of the party. CAUTION: Dont get lost in the crowd. You still need to remember your values and beliefs. Colleagues, family and friends are all supportive and give positive feedback. You have a strong sense of self-worth and your own abilities. CAUTION: Do not neglect to be positive to those who rely on you. You have become aware of the beauty and complexity of the world that surrounds you. Now is the time for you to explore and appreciate it in depth. CAUTION: Dont concentrate solely on the exotic and bizarre and overlook the riches of the mundane. You have been searching and now you have found a door to open. You sense that everything has its place and what was previously dismissed now has multiple layers of meaning. CAUTION: Do not exchange rationality for wholesale irrationality. Test everything. You no longer communicate and share your thoughts with others. In consequence your relationships are strained. You insist on keeping your own company and withdrawing from social activity. CAUTION: You need to establish if the partnership is over or is it the result of a misunderstanding. Perhaps the vision was all yours and the partner(s) never really shared it, or perhaps they cannot match your dynamism. You feel that now you should go solo. CAUTION: Only end the partnership if the other(s) really want to opt out. You can achieve much by working in harmony. Openness and honesty are a prerequisite for creativity in joint endeavours. Dynamic duo seems an appropriate description. CAUTION: Beware of forcing your own way or passively conceding to others. Both will doom the partnership.

1:1 You are in the situation of being both in control of yourself as well as others.

1:2 To continue going it alone isnt your best option.

1:3 You have left your splendid isolation and realised the benefits of engaging with others at work or at play.

1:4 Now feeling safe and settled in your situation gives you a sense of belonging.

1:5 Having established your place in life you are now open to new challenges and experiences.

1:6 Spirituality and religion have become tremendously important to you.

2:0 Your partnership(s) have taken a turn for the worse.

2:1 You seem to be doing all the work and wonder if the partnership(s) still function.

2:2 Working and emotional partnerships are dynamic and strong.

48

2:3 The partnership expands to include significant others.

This may indicate children and/or establishing a wider circle of friends. The partnership will be strengthened by new input. CAUTION: You should agree any new directions with your partner before making those changes. Relationships with your extended family, at work and in your social life are vibrant and provide a secure basis in your life. Your environment is enjoyable, productive and stress free. There is a place for everything and everything is in its place. CAUTION: Growth demands changes. Be on guard against unstable elements.

2:4 What was a partnership has expanded.

2:5 A new stage has been reached.

You are no longer preoccupied with the basics of living like accommodation and income. You feel the time is ripe to attend to cultural concerns. Values, virtues and beauty now determine your decisions. You look at life with fresh eyes. CAUTION: The basis of the partnership still requires your attention. Life has certainly been good but you sense that some essential part is missing. Behind outward appearances there surely must be more. You feel you are on the quest for the Holy Grail, metaphorically. CAUTION: Be aware that all that glitters is not gold. You cannot understand what is happening or why. You seem unable to take any effective remedial action. In this chaos you have lost your self-confidence and have withdrawn into yourself. CAUTION: You can do nothing until an opportunity presents itself. You are more or less left to your own devices with little support from anyone. This may be extremely discouraging or it may be the opportunity for you to go it alone. Whatever you decide to do all the drive must come from yourself. CAUTION: Assess your contribution to the breakdown of your relationships before acting. It may be due to arguments, misunderstandings or just the fact that you had little in common. But from now on the two of you are isolated. CAUTION: Check if any of the blame belongs to you. People respond to your suggestions as you do to theirs. Shared values and beliefs bond your social groups together. You have developed a close intimacy with everyone. CAUTION: Beware of crowd mentality. If this occurs, withdraw. You have a need for a greater sense of achievement and belonging beyond family and friends. You want to establish yourself. CAUTION: Restrain yourself from risky ventures. Indeed, they also want to shake off old patterns and try new experiences. Creativity is dominating your life and situation.

2:6 You and your partner feel the need to explore what spirituality has to offer.

3:0 Family life, jobs and social friendships have fallen apart.

3:1 People no longer share your enthusiasms and values.

3:2 A hectic family and social life has degenerated into just the two of you.

3:3 Your social life and engagements are very strong and full.

3:4 You are looking to widen your horizons beyond your immediate circle.

3:5 You are looking for adventure and excitement and want to carry others along with you.

49 CAUTION: Make sure all agree on where youre headed.

3:6 You and your circle of friends are considering the spiritual aspects of life.

In different ways you are exploring traditional or new religious movements, and various spiritual disciplines. You feel on the cusp of important discoveries. CAUTION: Discriminate between the true and the false. The usual habits, routines and beliefs no longer seem to work. There are no guidelines or signposts to help you navigate this crisis. All you can do is bear the confusion until it changes. CAUTION: Was your security based on false assumptions in the first place. You are forced to rely on yourself. Only your resilience and determination will keep you afloat. You look to evaluate your old priorities. CAUTION: Dont become a hermit. Others are still a necessary part of your life. You have to rely on each other to remake your lives, whether this includes new jobs, houses or situations. The two of you have sufficient dynamism to make things happen. CAUTION: Resist feeling defeated. Circumstances will change with or without you.

4:0 All that provided you with security and stability has evaporated.

4:1 Things around you have become chaotic and seem to be falling apart.

4:2 Your stable life has collapsed leaving you and your partner to carry on.

4:3 You have chosen to withdraw from your wider circle of acquaintances to concentrate on family and trusted
friends. You were disillusioned with aspects of you life and needed to make changes. For the time being your inner circle have your attention. CAUTION: You live in the world. Dont forget the wider issues.

4:4 Your life is as solid as a rock.

A place for everything and everything in its place. This firm foundation is the basis of your self-confidence. No storms are looming on the horizon. Youre enjoying your sense of peace and good luck. CAUTION: Have empathy for those whose lives are disrupted, difficult and painful. You feel drawn to engage in some artistic activity whether a specific craft or simply making your home attractive. Books, music and art are now firmly on your agenda. CAUTION: Be restrained. There are no limits to beautifying your environment. Your circumstances are pointing you in the direction of spirituality and religion. Money and security are taking a back seat as you explore these new avenues. CAUTION: All forms of spirituality need testing to establish their truth. You cannot rouse your creativity or motivation. Your circumstances cannot assist you. Everything remains grey and unattractive, bleak and barren. You are at a loss as to how to deal with this state of affairs. CAUTION: The best response is to wait, expecting things to change for the better.

4:5 All aspects of your life are now measured in terms of their intrinsic beauty and harmony.

4:6 Your environment suggests there is more to life family, jobs and hobbies.

5:0 Harmony and wholeness have disappeared leaving an ugly hole.

50

5:1 You feel you are standing alone in a sea of chaos.

You are not sure what action to take to return to your comfortable life. Life seem nasty, brutish and short but you are able to persevere against the odds. You still have energy and determination. CAUTION: Keep in mind that all states are transitory and subject to change. Quite unexpectedly the good life has faded away. Those things that you valued now seem worthless and have undermined your sense of competence. Nevertheless you and your partner have a robust relationship. CAUTION: In the midst of crisis mutual support is essential. You are uncertain if it is down to you or your circumstances. At this moment in time you are devoting yourself to your immediate family and close friends. CAUTION: Watch out for a renewal in your creative endeavours.

5:2 You and your partner are under a great deal of pressure.

5:3 The creative and artistic side of you life has ground to a halt.

5:4 Although you continue to feel safe and settled some of the sparkle has gone out of your life. Things in general
seem drab and boring, and what you once regarded of special value is now unimportant. CAUTION: Do not indulge in excesses to regain a sense of excitement.

5:5 You are full of self confidence and eager to try new things.

You want to be adventurous and broaden your horizons. You are brimming with energy and motivation and these feelings are reflected in your immediate environment. A new career, travel or artistic involvement are the order of the day. The world is your oyster. CAUTION: Do not be reckless and foolhardy. Always assess the risks. The

5:6 All is harmony in your environment but your circumstances are pointing you in the direction of spirituality.
harmony and beauty you have already experienced suggest there even more to life. You are eager to see what else life can offer. CAUTION: With all things spiritual, test them by their fruits.

6:0 Suddenly your old certainties have disappeared or evaporated.

You find yourself in a sea of confusion. There seems nothing you can hold on to, to weather the storm. You feel locked up within yourself. CAUTION: Do not make important decisions at this time. Irrational ideas may seem attractive. You are left alone with your creativity as noone else is persuaded. You hold onto your goals none the less even though its all down to you. CAUTION: You need to determine whether you are being realistic. Life is now limited to your partner or intimate friend. Life goes on but for the moment without the overriding purpose it once had. CAUTION: Communicate with your partner to prevent any more disillusions. This has broken down and now you are only linked to immediate friends and family. Never the less you feel this is enough and gives you sufficient goals to achieve. CAUTION: Give and take are essential in maintaining relationships.

6:1 Your clever schemes and insights are not appreciated by others.

6:2 The vibrant life you once had has gone and you are now left with just you and your partner.

6:3 You were once a part of various groups sharing the same values and purposes.

51

6:4 You have moved away from your religious/spiritual inclinations and now concentrate on family, work and
friends. At the moment this seems more than enough to cope with, and gives you satisfaction. CAUTION: Do not be surprised if you discover a new set of values and motivation.

6:5 You are satisfied with the values you hold in life.

You no longer worry about having some special role to play. You are content to admire beauty in nature and your environment, and this gives you contentment. You and your friends share the same concerns for the world. CAUTION: Spirituality may well return to your life in some form or other. All seems right with the world and with you. You are in tune with your inner self and are happy to call your life, spiritual. You are aware of the needs of others and respond to their requests. CAUTION: Moments of bliss are fleeting, but good works need to conscious effort.

6:6 You are experiencing a period of peace and harmony.