Bubble Bubble
Toil and Trouble
Eye of Newt
Rack of Lamp
2 sticks of butter
½-cup milk
Freshly ground stick of cinnamon
Oh, wait, wrong list.
I have been called many things in my lifetime. Wizard, sorcerer, mage, sage, magician, witch, warlock, druid, and yes even an asshole believe it or not – oh wait that is my wife’s pet name for me isn’t it. As you read those different words though, we all get our own preconceived ideas of what each one represents. All basically the same thing, it is just tweaked a little differently. Well take the asshole part out o.k. and then think about it.
If you go back to ancient writings and thoughts though, you will get different impressions. Whereas the warlock was a traitor, the wizard was still a nice guy doing things for the people. The denotation of warlock as a male witch really comes from our watching Bewitched when we were younger. Let’s face it, we all did it, and all wished we could do those things with our noses too. I really wished I could have been Samantha’s dad, I thought he was cool. Oh, and let us not forget about Paul Lynn, the uncle he played was hilarious.
We can dig out all the old dusty tombs and read through them all until we are full of dust and cobwebs, and our conception of them may change. However, what you will not change is the mundane outlook on the descriptions. What matters the most is not what we think we are, it is truly, what others think we are. That is where the true power lies anyway. We can boast and brag all we want. We can change our appearance to greatly reflect the persona that we want to project, but in the end, the true end of it, all we are deceiving is ourselves
I was asked once if I was a Druid. I stated that I was a Wanna-be Druid. That is wrong. I tried to label myself, to fit into some stereotype, to be something more than what I truly am. Just like a person who professes to being a witch, or a wizard or any of the other hundreds of things a person can be.
I am just…..Rog
Monday, July 19, 2004
Sunday, July 18, 2004
A Dragon Story (cont)
Finally everyone was asleep in the house. He gathered his old cloak and wrapped it around him to ward of the dampness in the air. He walked out the back door and closed it quietly behind him. No sense in waking the sleeping people inside. Not tonight, especially tonight. He did not want anyone to know he had left and he especially did not want anyone to see him leave. They may try to follow.
The pathway was dimly lit by the moon that was out. He didn’t carry a flashlight or torches to help light his way. He knew the way though, walked it many times in the past. Would have walked it many times more if things hadn’t changed. But something had happened and he meant to put an end to it.
Finally he arrives at his destination. “Come out Dragon, I have need of you.”
I am here Old one
She saw you
Yes, she caught me – just like you did.
“I didn’t catch you and you know that – just like I know she didn’t catch you. But you promised me – you swore – she would not be The One.”
She is the chosen one just like you were.
“You have gotten forgetful in your old age, Wyrm, I chose you,” the old man shouts
No Old Man, you were chosen, just like your grandfather was and his grandfather before him. She is the one in line now. She will carry the burden for the next generation.
“No Wyrm, the burden was mine alone. You cannot take another, not of my kin. It will stop with me.”
The old man slips out the sword he had hidden behind him. He holds it up in front of him like he has so many times in the past. Its blade shines in the moonlight. The iridescent aura shimmers along its sharp edge. The dragon hilt pulses with the energy that is emanating this night.
“This is the mark of my burden that I have carried. The burden that was placed upon my family generations ago. That burden ends tonight Dragon!”
The old man slides one of his hands up the tip of the blade. He holds the Dragon sword by the hilt and the tip of the blade. Bending to one knee, he cries out. “The Burden Ends tonight!” He swings the sword down across his knee and breaks the blade cleanly in two. The pieces drop to the ground. Time stands still.
A thousand thoughts race across the minds of both human and dragon. Altercations and brawls, fights and battles. Some won and some lost, but through all of them, there was a bond that was shared between the human and dragon. Alliance formed so many years ago.
The old man looks down at those two pieces and fully realizes what he has done. He has broken a promise, a vow he made so many years ago. But the curse will not affect his beloved granddaughter, that much he knows. She will be spared the burden; it will not be placed upon her shoulders to carry. He stands and turns, never to look back again. A tear forms and runs down his cheek as he starts to realize what he has lost.
The old man is to far away to see or hear the dragon pick up the sword. He is too far away to notice the glimmer of light emanating from the two broken pieces as they are formed together as one.
As you wish - Old Friend – as you wish
The pathway was dimly lit by the moon that was out. He didn’t carry a flashlight or torches to help light his way. He knew the way though, walked it many times in the past. Would have walked it many times more if things hadn’t changed. But something had happened and he meant to put an end to it.
Finally he arrives at his destination. “Come out Dragon, I have need of you.”
I am here Old one
She saw you
Yes, she caught me – just like you did.
“I didn’t catch you and you know that – just like I know she didn’t catch you. But you promised me – you swore – she would not be The One.”
She is the chosen one just like you were.
“You have gotten forgetful in your old age, Wyrm, I chose you,” the old man shouts
No Old Man, you were chosen, just like your grandfather was and his grandfather before him. She is the one in line now. She will carry the burden for the next generation.
“No Wyrm, the burden was mine alone. You cannot take another, not of my kin. It will stop with me.”
The old man slips out the sword he had hidden behind him. He holds it up in front of him like he has so many times in the past. Its blade shines in the moonlight. The iridescent aura shimmers along its sharp edge. The dragon hilt pulses with the energy that is emanating this night.
“This is the mark of my burden that I have carried. The burden that was placed upon my family generations ago. That burden ends tonight Dragon!”
The old man slides one of his hands up the tip of the blade. He holds the Dragon sword by the hilt and the tip of the blade. Bending to one knee, he cries out. “The Burden Ends tonight!” He swings the sword down across his knee and breaks the blade cleanly in two. The pieces drop to the ground. Time stands still.
A thousand thoughts race across the minds of both human and dragon. Altercations and brawls, fights and battles. Some won and some lost, but through all of them, there was a bond that was shared between the human and dragon. Alliance formed so many years ago.
The old man looks down at those two pieces and fully realizes what he has done. He has broken a promise, a vow he made so many years ago. But the curse will not affect his beloved granddaughter, that much he knows. She will be spared the burden; it will not be placed upon her shoulders to carry. He stands and turns, never to look back again. A tear forms and runs down his cheek as he starts to realize what he has lost.
The old man is to far away to see or hear the dragon pick up the sword. He is too far away to notice the glimmer of light emanating from the two broken pieces as they are formed together as one.
As you wish - Old Friend – as you wish
I think therefore I am
I read that somewhere and I really don’t remember where. I use it here unquoted for I don’t remember who wrote it. I apologize and would state who wrote it if I remembered. But I don’t, so I won’t.
That statement though, denotes the difference between animal life and human life. We have evolved with an imagination, thoughts, and ideas. Now I am not going into the merits of evolution or creationism, but I will say that “IF” God did create us in his image – well he has a sadistic sense of humor.
Well, let’s face it. I am 5 foot 6 inches and maybe 140 pounds (soaking wet with a parka on). I cannot tell you the number of times when I could have been a few inches taller. You know, like when you need to get that bowl from the top of the cupboard, or changing that light bulb. It would be so much easier and simpler if I could have just reached up there and got it. But Noooo, I have to FIRST try to reach it, and then grab a chair, stand up on it, reach and pull the item down, climb back down off the chair, and then put the chair back. It would have been so much faster just to be able to reach the dog-gone thing.
Then, and I am talking to you guys out there on this one, how about when we are going to do some type of manly thing like cutting a board, working on the car, or any number of other Manly type feats of strength, cunning, and fortitude. There are times when a third arm and hand would have come in handy. One sticking right out of the middle of our chest. O.k. o.k. I know, but give it a second now and think about this. How about when we have to carry a bunch of something small. Like the Christmas decorations. All those little boxes of ornaments and the like. O.k. so we got like 15 boxes all piled in a semblance of order and we go down the stairs, walk into the house and get like 5 inches away from where we are going to put them down and POOF all the boxes go flying across the floor. How many times has something similar to that happened to you? Now, wouldn’t it have been easier if we had a third arm to help steady them? I am not going to go into the many other times when we could have used another hand or arm when there weren’t any other people around.
However, I digress, sorry. We humans think, we have an imagination, we have thoughts, and we can come up with ideas. Our thoughts have made the cave into a 3-bedroom cottage, on a concrete road lined with trees. We plant flowers and other fancy weeds, into eye-appealing formations throughout the grassy subdivision we live in. We seek refuge from the day-to-day trials that we face in these places of safety. Bottling ourselves up from the harsh outside world, we watch the TV for our entertainment. We are slowly losing ourselves, our humanness. Turning into mindless zombies waiting and watching the latest wonderful entertainment idea presented upon that small screen.
Take a moment and go outside. Feel the grass comfort your steps as you walk. Sit in the middle of your yard and look around you. See the trees and flowers for what they are, an abstract form of a very primitive time, where the outside world was truly a harsh place to be. Look at the stars and the moon as they come out at night to play. Feel the caress of the Lunar Maiden as She looks down upon you. It is all there, just waiting for you.
Come outside. Sit in the grass and look at the Moon and the Stars. Come and play with us. I share nicely
That statement though, denotes the difference between animal life and human life. We have evolved with an imagination, thoughts, and ideas. Now I am not going into the merits of evolution or creationism, but I will say that “IF” God did create us in his image – well he has a sadistic sense of humor.
Well, let’s face it. I am 5 foot 6 inches and maybe 140 pounds (soaking wet with a parka on). I cannot tell you the number of times when I could have been a few inches taller. You know, like when you need to get that bowl from the top of the cupboard, or changing that light bulb. It would be so much easier and simpler if I could have just reached up there and got it. But Noooo, I have to FIRST try to reach it, and then grab a chair, stand up on it, reach and pull the item down, climb back down off the chair, and then put the chair back. It would have been so much faster just to be able to reach the dog-gone thing.
Then, and I am talking to you guys out there on this one, how about when we are going to do some type of manly thing like cutting a board, working on the car, or any number of other Manly type feats of strength, cunning, and fortitude. There are times when a third arm and hand would have come in handy. One sticking right out of the middle of our chest. O.k. o.k. I know, but give it a second now and think about this. How about when we have to carry a bunch of something small. Like the Christmas decorations. All those little boxes of ornaments and the like. O.k. so we got like 15 boxes all piled in a semblance of order and we go down the stairs, walk into the house and get like 5 inches away from where we are going to put them down and POOF all the boxes go flying across the floor. How many times has something similar to that happened to you? Now, wouldn’t it have been easier if we had a third arm to help steady them? I am not going to go into the many other times when we could have used another hand or arm when there weren’t any other people around.
However, I digress, sorry. We humans think, we have an imagination, we have thoughts, and we can come up with ideas. Our thoughts have made the cave into a 3-bedroom cottage, on a concrete road lined with trees. We plant flowers and other fancy weeds, into eye-appealing formations throughout the grassy subdivision we live in. We seek refuge from the day-to-day trials that we face in these places of safety. Bottling ourselves up from the harsh outside world, we watch the TV for our entertainment. We are slowly losing ourselves, our humanness. Turning into mindless zombies waiting and watching the latest wonderful entertainment idea presented upon that small screen.
Take a moment and go outside. Feel the grass comfort your steps as you walk. Sit in the middle of your yard and look around you. See the trees and flowers for what they are, an abstract form of a very primitive time, where the outside world was truly a harsh place to be. Look at the stars and the moon as they come out at night to play. Feel the caress of the Lunar Maiden as She looks down upon you. It is all there, just waiting for you.
Come outside. Sit in the grass and look at the Moon and the Stars. Come and play with us. I share nicely
Friday, July 16, 2004
a mothers trust
I’m not sure if mom trusts me anymore. Seems like every time I walk outside and start to do any type of yard work at all, she suddenly shows up to see what I am doing. My son’s brother-in-law is staying with him during the summer. He has come over and mowed the yard a couple of times and he ventured again today in that direction. I thought the least I could do is trim the yard while he mowed. So, I was outside with the weed trimmer and moving stuff around when she came outside. She stood a good distance away, but she watched me for quite some time before she went back inside. I did catch her a few times looking out the windows at us, but for the most part I think she realized I wasn’t doing any major damages to the yard today.
Now, you ask, how do I know she doesn’t trust me. Maybe she was just interested in what we were doing and just was out there in the nice sunshine. Yeah, right. After the last two weeks a.k.a. Compost Pile?? No, I know mom. She, if she was going to be openly interested in what I was doing, would have been talking about it. No, she feigned indifference, and hence the worry. She talked about everything in the world but what was going on in the yard at that moment. She talked about the sewing program, the sale flyer in the mail today, what she had for lunch. Everything but the yard.
See, if she was not worried about the yard she would have talked about trimming the flower beds (watch out for the hosta that is laying on the rock border) to not forgetting about these weeds over there. She would have talked about how the cone flowers are in full bloom, or how the butterfly bushes being so full this year. No, she talked about the sewing program, and how they modeled a quilt on it that her group had made a number of years ago. She told me about the sandwich she had made and taken with her yesterday and how much money we will save if we buy milk at the grocery store this week.
I would have heard about how nice this and that looks, how we could plant something in this flower bed or some other thing. What we could be doing here and there. But no, she did not say a word about the yard and what I was doing. The conversational topic didn’t come up in the least. I think she is afraid to find out.
Nope, she don’t trust me.
Now, you ask, how do I know she doesn’t trust me. Maybe she was just interested in what we were doing and just was out there in the nice sunshine. Yeah, right. After the last two weeks a.k.a. Compost Pile?? No, I know mom. She, if she was going to be openly interested in what I was doing, would have been talking about it. No, she feigned indifference, and hence the worry. She talked about everything in the world but what was going on in the yard at that moment. She talked about the sewing program, the sale flyer in the mail today, what she had for lunch. Everything but the yard.
See, if she was not worried about the yard she would have talked about trimming the flower beds (watch out for the hosta that is laying on the rock border) to not forgetting about these weeds over there. She would have talked about how the cone flowers are in full bloom, or how the butterfly bushes being so full this year. No, she talked about the sewing program, and how they modeled a quilt on it that her group had made a number of years ago. She told me about the sandwich she had made and taken with her yesterday and how much money we will save if we buy milk at the grocery store this week.
I would have heard about how nice this and that looks, how we could plant something in this flower bed or some other thing. What we could be doing here and there. But no, she did not say a word about the yard and what I was doing. The conversational topic didn’t come up in the least. I think she is afraid to find out.
Nope, she don’t trust me.
invoking the watchtowers II
Invoke Watchtowers Two:
East:
Hail to Thee Guardians of the Watchtower of the East, the powers of Air!
Spirit of the invisible, and of the fresh, cool winds,
Your living breath animates all life
Yours is the power of clarity, to hear the inner sounds
To bring change and challenge,
Bring your power to our circle this night,
So that your power may flow through us
For the good of the Earth and all the beings living here.
So Mote It Be.
South:
Hail to Thee Guardians of the Watchtower of the South, the powers of Fire!
Spirit of the Sun, the great nuclear fire,
O power of life energy, vital spark,
Power to see far and to imaging with boldness
Power to purify, and to mesmerize,
Bring your power to our circle this night.
So that your power may flow through us
For the good of the Earth and all the beings living here.
So Mote It Be.
West:
Hail to Thee Guardians of the Watchtower of the West, the powers of Water!
Spirit of new beginnings, Spirit of the great waters,
Of rain, rivers, lakes and springs,
And ancient ocean, deep matrix, womb of all life,
Power to taste and to feel, to cleanse and to heal,
Bring your power to our circle this night,
So that your power may flow through us
For the good of the Earth, and all the beings living here.
So Mote It Be.
North:
Hail to Thee Guardians of the Watchtower of the North, the powers of Earth!
Spirit protector of the fruitful land,
And of all green and growing things.
O soul of Nature, of nurturance and endurance,
Power to grow and to bring forth
Bring your power to our circle this night.
So that your power may flow through us
For the good of the Earth and all the beings living here.
So Mote It Be.
East:
Hail to Thee Guardians of the Watchtower of the East, the powers of air.
We thank you for sharing with us the Spirit of your powers.
And as ye depart to your mighty realms, we bid thee Hail and Farewell
And harm ye none on your way, So Mote It Be.
South:
Hail to Thee Guardians of the Watchtower of the South, the powers of fire.
We thank you for sharing with us the Spirit of your powers.
And as ye depart to your mighty realms, we bid thee Hail and Farewell
And harm ye none on your way, So Mote It Be.
West:
Hail to Thee Guardians of the Watchtower of the West, the powers of water.
We thank you for sharing with us the Spirit of your powers.
And as ye depart to your mighty realms, we bid thee Hail and Farewell
And harm ye none on your way, So Mote It Be.
North:
Hail to Thee Guardians of the Watchtower of the North, the powers of earth.
We thank you for sharing with us the Spirit of your powers.
And as ye depart to your mighty realms, we bid thee Hail and Farewell
And harm ye none on your way, So Mote It Be.
East:
Hail to Thee Guardians of the Watchtower of the East, the powers of Air!
Spirit of the invisible, and of the fresh, cool winds,
Your living breath animates all life
Yours is the power of clarity, to hear the inner sounds
To bring change and challenge,
Bring your power to our circle this night,
So that your power may flow through us
For the good of the Earth and all the beings living here.
So Mote It Be.
South:
Hail to Thee Guardians of the Watchtower of the South, the powers of Fire!
Spirit of the Sun, the great nuclear fire,
O power of life energy, vital spark,
Power to see far and to imaging with boldness
Power to purify, and to mesmerize,
Bring your power to our circle this night.
So that your power may flow through us
For the good of the Earth and all the beings living here.
So Mote It Be.
West:
Hail to Thee Guardians of the Watchtower of the West, the powers of Water!
Spirit of new beginnings, Spirit of the great waters,
Of rain, rivers, lakes and springs,
And ancient ocean, deep matrix, womb of all life,
Power to taste and to feel, to cleanse and to heal,
Bring your power to our circle this night,
So that your power may flow through us
For the good of the Earth, and all the beings living here.
So Mote It Be.
North:
Hail to Thee Guardians of the Watchtower of the North, the powers of Earth!
Spirit protector of the fruitful land,
And of all green and growing things.
O soul of Nature, of nurturance and endurance,
Power to grow and to bring forth
Bring your power to our circle this night.
So that your power may flow through us
For the good of the Earth and all the beings living here.
So Mote It Be.
East:
Hail to Thee Guardians of the Watchtower of the East, the powers of air.
We thank you for sharing with us the Spirit of your powers.
And as ye depart to your mighty realms, we bid thee Hail and Farewell
And harm ye none on your way, So Mote It Be.
South:
Hail to Thee Guardians of the Watchtower of the South, the powers of fire.
We thank you for sharing with us the Spirit of your powers.
And as ye depart to your mighty realms, we bid thee Hail and Farewell
And harm ye none on your way, So Mote It Be.
West:
Hail to Thee Guardians of the Watchtower of the West, the powers of water.
We thank you for sharing with us the Spirit of your powers.
And as ye depart to your mighty realms, we bid thee Hail and Farewell
And harm ye none on your way, So Mote It Be.
North:
Hail to Thee Guardians of the Watchtower of the North, the powers of earth.
We thank you for sharing with us the Spirit of your powers.
And as ye depart to your mighty realms, we bid thee Hail and Farewell
And harm ye none on your way, So Mote It Be.
Saturday, July 10, 2004
The Moon and Stars
***** MAJOR WARNING ****
O.k. so here is the deal. I was given the Moon and the Stars when I was 4 years old. You all get to look at them and yes, I will even allow SOME to walk on the moon. However, they are mine understand? My Great Grandmother Elizabeth (Grandma Lizzie) gave them to me. She told me that they were hers and hers alone to give to me. Now, a great grandmother DOES NOT LIE!!! And if any of you tell me otherwise, well that is just sacrilegious.
Dad and I had gone over to their house and had stayed late. It was usual for us to go there almost on a daily basis. See, I was Grandma Lizzie’s birthday present. Yeah, I was born the day before her birthday so hence, claimed that I was given to her. There where many little perks to this distinction and I do not have a problem with that. For example, there was always a candy bar on the table or a Popsicle in the freezer. Nope, not a problem at all.
For the first 6 to almost 7 years of my life we would go to their house (3 whole blocks away) and visit with her and my Great Grandfather Emanuel (Grandpa Manuel). We did that until Grandpa Manuel passed away when I was around eight
Well, we had stayed late, the outside light burned out just as we were getting ready to leave and let’s face it, it was fricken dark outside. Too dark for this little boy to go outside. Grandma took pity on her grandson, picked me up, and started to comfort me. She started talking as she started to walk to the car. As we stepped outside, she stopped and let dad go ahead. That is when she had me look at the sky.
Tonight there was a full moon or dang close to it. I remember her pointing out the shape of a face on the moon to me. Pointing to the different stars and telling me to look over there and there. That is when she told me – that is when she gave me the Moon and the Stars. That She and They were there to light up the night for me.
That is when she told me wondrous things. I do not know how long that magical moment lasted, but I know it was over way too soon. I sorely wish I remembered everything she said. And the way she said it. But I did walk away with the knowledge that it was a magical time and she believed in the Fairy kingdom. Believed and respected. We walked the pathway from hundreds of year’s gone bye. She told me things that night, that were told to her when she was young. Things that have been handed down from generation to generation. I know that, I feel that, and I believe that.
She talked about Grandpa’s flowers and how there were things there to watch the flowers and plants. How these things came to be there she did not state. But they were and I did not have to do a thing. They were there no matter what. Whether I looked for them or not (but if I did I would not find them) it did not matter. They were there just because. Because we were who we were, they are there to watch and protect us too. That no matter what, because of them, there was nothing outside for us to ever be afraid of. That no matter where I went, I could find them in the flowers, plants, or trees around me.
As we walked towards the car, Grandpa Manuel followed. When we reached the front of the house, Grandpa told me about the buckeye tree. How it grew in the front of the house and protected the entranceway. He bent down and picked up one of the buckeyes that had fallen. He handed it to me and told me to keep this in my pocket. Never put it in my mouth, but to always keep it in my pocket.
I cannot express in dismal words and sentences everything I felt that night. How can I share with you what was said, what was heard, what was seen, or what was felt. Because that is really where the magic was. It was a feeling I felt. Total love and commitment from my grandmother emanating from her to that world. I felt it from her through her gestures, words, and in the way she held me close. I felt the magic leave her body and go through mine out into that realm. Part of her and part of me traveled that night, together, to that world. We only stayed a short time, a fleeting second, but that was enough. I have been touched (and I am pretty sure I will not hear any arguments there either).
I learned in those few moments. What it fully means to behold the world around us. I strive to gain that goal. For you see, like many before and after, we forget. We forget what we are. The mundane life enters our world and then we have to “grow-up.” It has a tendency to knock on the door quite often. Bills in the mail, tank of gas, groceries. Yeah those little perks all interrupt. However, we can push the boundaries a little bit and keep them at bay.
That realm is there, all we have to do is allow it to enter our lives. FULLY enter our lives. Open your eyes, your ears, and your heart and see what surrounds us. Even amongst all the implements of a normal, mundane contempory 21st century person, they are here. That flowerbed you walked by, the trees in the backyard, the front lawn, they are there. What about the flowerpot in the front room window? Do you see them? Can you feel them?
So, I simply don’t care what you say. The Moon and the Stars are mine. Try to tell me otherwise.
O.k. so here is the deal. I was given the Moon and the Stars when I was 4 years old. You all get to look at them and yes, I will even allow SOME to walk on the moon. However, they are mine understand? My Great Grandmother Elizabeth (Grandma Lizzie) gave them to me. She told me that they were hers and hers alone to give to me. Now, a great grandmother DOES NOT LIE!!! And if any of you tell me otherwise, well that is just sacrilegious.
Dad and I had gone over to their house and had stayed late. It was usual for us to go there almost on a daily basis. See, I was Grandma Lizzie’s birthday present. Yeah, I was born the day before her birthday so hence, claimed that I was given to her. There where many little perks to this distinction and I do not have a problem with that. For example, there was always a candy bar on the table or a Popsicle in the freezer. Nope, not a problem at all.
For the first 6 to almost 7 years of my life we would go to their house (3 whole blocks away) and visit with her and my Great Grandfather Emanuel (Grandpa Manuel). We did that until Grandpa Manuel passed away when I was around eight
Well, we had stayed late, the outside light burned out just as we were getting ready to leave and let’s face it, it was fricken dark outside. Too dark for this little boy to go outside. Grandma took pity on her grandson, picked me up, and started to comfort me. She started talking as she started to walk to the car. As we stepped outside, she stopped and let dad go ahead. That is when she had me look at the sky.
Tonight there was a full moon or dang close to it. I remember her pointing out the shape of a face on the moon to me. Pointing to the different stars and telling me to look over there and there. That is when she told me – that is when she gave me the Moon and the Stars. That She and They were there to light up the night for me.
That is when she told me wondrous things. I do not know how long that magical moment lasted, but I know it was over way too soon. I sorely wish I remembered everything she said. And the way she said it. But I did walk away with the knowledge that it was a magical time and she believed in the Fairy kingdom. Believed and respected. We walked the pathway from hundreds of year’s gone bye. She told me things that night, that were told to her when she was young. Things that have been handed down from generation to generation. I know that, I feel that, and I believe that.
She talked about Grandpa’s flowers and how there were things there to watch the flowers and plants. How these things came to be there she did not state. But they were and I did not have to do a thing. They were there no matter what. Whether I looked for them or not (but if I did I would not find them) it did not matter. They were there just because. Because we were who we were, they are there to watch and protect us too. That no matter what, because of them, there was nothing outside for us to ever be afraid of. That no matter where I went, I could find them in the flowers, plants, or trees around me.
As we walked towards the car, Grandpa Manuel followed. When we reached the front of the house, Grandpa told me about the buckeye tree. How it grew in the front of the house and protected the entranceway. He bent down and picked up one of the buckeyes that had fallen. He handed it to me and told me to keep this in my pocket. Never put it in my mouth, but to always keep it in my pocket.
I cannot express in dismal words and sentences everything I felt that night. How can I share with you what was said, what was heard, what was seen, or what was felt. Because that is really where the magic was. It was a feeling I felt. Total love and commitment from my grandmother emanating from her to that world. I felt it from her through her gestures, words, and in the way she held me close. I felt the magic leave her body and go through mine out into that realm. Part of her and part of me traveled that night, together, to that world. We only stayed a short time, a fleeting second, but that was enough. I have been touched (and I am pretty sure I will not hear any arguments there either).
I learned in those few moments. What it fully means to behold the world around us. I strive to gain that goal. For you see, like many before and after, we forget. We forget what we are. The mundane life enters our world and then we have to “grow-up.” It has a tendency to knock on the door quite often. Bills in the mail, tank of gas, groceries. Yeah those little perks all interrupt. However, we can push the boundaries a little bit and keep them at bay.
That realm is there, all we have to do is allow it to enter our lives. FULLY enter our lives. Open your eyes, your ears, and your heart and see what surrounds us. Even amongst all the implements of a normal, mundane contempory 21st century person, they are here. That flowerbed you walked by, the trees in the backyard, the front lawn, they are there. What about the flowerpot in the front room window? Do you see them? Can you feel them?
So, I simply don’t care what you say. The Moon and the Stars are mine. Try to tell me otherwise.
Wednesday, July 07, 2004
Calling the Quarters
Hail guardians of the east, spirits of Air, powers of Thought
I call you to lend your essence to this rite and protect us from
all negativity from the east.
Hail guardians of the south, spirits of Fire, powers of Will
I call you to lend your essence to this rite and protect us from
all negativity from the south.
Hail guardians of the west, spirits of Water, powers of Emotion
I call you to lend your essence to this rite and protect us from
all negativity from the west.
Hail guardians of the north, spirits of Earth, powers of Stability
I call you to lend your essence to this rite and protect us from
all negativity from the north.
Guardians of the east, We thank you for your presence here and for your gift of clarity. Hail and farewell
Guardians of the south, we thank you for your presence here and for your gift of purity. Hail and farewell
Guardians of the West, we thank you for your presence here and for your gift of empathy. Hail and farewell
Guardians of the north, we thank you for your presence here and for your gift of stability. Hail and farewell
I call you to lend your essence to this rite and protect us from
all negativity from the east.
Hail guardians of the south, spirits of Fire, powers of Will
I call you to lend your essence to this rite and protect us from
all negativity from the south.
Hail guardians of the west, spirits of Water, powers of Emotion
I call you to lend your essence to this rite and protect us from
all negativity from the west.
Hail guardians of the north, spirits of Earth, powers of Stability
I call you to lend your essence to this rite and protect us from
all negativity from the north.
Guardians of the east, We thank you for your presence here and for your gift of clarity. Hail and farewell
Guardians of the south, we thank you for your presence here and for your gift of purity. Hail and farewell
Guardians of the West, we thank you for your presence here and for your gift of empathy. Hail and farewell
Guardians of the north, we thank you for your presence here and for your gift of stability. Hail and farewell
A Dragon story
The old man was sitting on the porch reading his paper when she came busting in. “PaPa, Papa, I saw a dragon. I saw a dragon.”
Chuckling slightly the old man looks at the bundle of energy running through the door. Oh you did, did you?
Yes PaPa, I did see a Dragon.
Are you sure Little One?
Yes PaPa, it was all shiny and glowed, just like your ring does in the sunshine.
The old man takes a long, deep breath; "It glowed? Like gold? Are you sure?
Yes PaPa, it was a Golden, it was a Gold Dragon.
But she is too young – It’s not the right time.
PaPa, I’m seven years old.
The old man looks at his pride and joy as he says; “Yes, Yes maybe it is time.
Inhaling deeply and letting it out slowly the Old man takes out his pipe, fills it with tobacco, lights it and then starts to spin his tale
O.k. Little One; let me tell you about the Dragons."
Ah, the Dragoons, well they are old * ancient * Deep * an Earthly Magic. Some say that they are dark and foreboding, that they are bad and should be feared. For some, they are, but for others, well it is an all together different story.
Legends say that they have vast and great hordes that are worth a small fortune. It is also said that they guard this great horde and will destroy all who enter their vast underground lairs. Now, to the oriental people, the dragon is a good sign. That great fortune will befall the person who sees one. Though they look very menacing to the onlooker.
In ancient days, the dragon was regarded as a most sacred animal, and used to be the imperial emblem of Chinese emperors. To the Chinese they are the first of the four Divine Creatures. The others are the unicorn, the phoenix and the tortoise. But, unlike the dragon that the West sees, the Chinese Dragon is a benevolent and gracious creature and is worshipped as the divine ruler of Lakes, Rivers and Seas. It is the powerful yet gentle ‘Loong" that brings rain to the earth, hastens the crops and cools the toiling farmer. It is one of the most popular of Chinese art motifs. It is sculpted on stone pillars, on Chinese temples and embroidered on beautiful gold and silk tapestries.
Legend says that the Dragon first appeared in the sky, while an heir to the throne was born, and the country was blessed with peace and prosperity for many generations thereafter. Thus, the Dragon served as a symbol of good fortune.
However, to the western world, the dragon is seen as evil, greedy, and mean. A hoarder of great wealth, it is said that if you are able to steal a dragons horde your family will be wealthy for many generations. They were sought out and slaughtered one by one, until most had gone far underground. That is how the western world perceives things they do not understand. They would rather destroy the very ground they live on than to understand the great burden that has been given to them.
Dragons are an ancient race that walked this land long before many creatures that roam the world today. They are part of the earth, the air, the water, and fire. Long-lived, they are also highly intelligent. If you are ever lucky (or to some unlucky) enough to spend time with them you would understand. For this is the primary reason Western Man fears the dragon. They show the frailty of humankind. That we are not the ultimate rulers of the world.
Now it is said that the dragons are the messengers of the gods and some say they are the protectors of the elements, and of the land. They are a mythical creature with great magic and great lore. They are all this, and much more. Their magic is old, ancient, and very powerful. They are very intelligent and their knowledge is vast, for they know many things. To befriend a dragon, is a commitment for your whole life. For you not only commit to the dragon, but to all dragon kind, humankind, and the riches of Mother Earth.
But just like humankind, there are good and bad dragons. Would you not be bad if you were not treated with admiration, love and respect? If all you have seen is hatred, how could you not show the same? Moreover, this is the primary reason why some (but not all) dragons are bad.
Good and evil is not a concept to the normal dragon. They only know what must be. Now some have been tainted, their hearts have turned as cold as the stone of their lairs. These are the ones that must be feared, for they know no fear. They are the ones whose colors have turned dark. They are the ones who have lost their truth. However, the others, whose colors are still bright and clear, are the ones who you must abide by, the ones who deserve your admiration for goodness and gladness are in their hearts still. They are here to help you, if you so desire it. However, do not take their gifts lightly, my child, for to accept the dragons favor places a great burden upon your shoulders. They will look to you to be their eyes and ears. You will become their helpers in the world. Moreover, you can never turn your back on them again. Their spirit will be around you and in you. You will walk with them, and they will walk with you until the end of time.
Now, Little One, it is your bedtime so bundle yourself off.
Night Papa
Good night Little One, Happy Nightmares
He sits, puffing on his pipe; the bowl is in the shape of a dragon. It glows to life again. In a voice only he can hear, “You did well Old One”
“Old one huh” and he losses himself in thought……
Chuckling slightly the old man looks at the bundle of energy running through the door. Oh you did, did you?
Yes PaPa, I did see a Dragon.
Are you sure Little One?
Yes PaPa, it was all shiny and glowed, just like your ring does in the sunshine.
The old man takes a long, deep breath; "It glowed? Like gold? Are you sure?
Yes PaPa, it was a Golden, it was a Gold Dragon.
But she is too young – It’s not the right time.
PaPa, I’m seven years old.
The old man looks at his pride and joy as he says; “Yes, Yes maybe it is time.
Inhaling deeply and letting it out slowly the Old man takes out his pipe, fills it with tobacco, lights it and then starts to spin his tale
O.k. Little One; let me tell you about the Dragons."
Ah, the Dragoons, well they are old * ancient * Deep * an Earthly Magic. Some say that they are dark and foreboding, that they are bad and should be feared. For some, they are, but for others, well it is an all together different story.
Legends say that they have vast and great hordes that are worth a small fortune. It is also said that they guard this great horde and will destroy all who enter their vast underground lairs. Now, to the oriental people, the dragon is a good sign. That great fortune will befall the person who sees one. Though they look very menacing to the onlooker.
In ancient days, the dragon was regarded as a most sacred animal, and used to be the imperial emblem of Chinese emperors. To the Chinese they are the first of the four Divine Creatures. The others are the unicorn, the phoenix and the tortoise. But, unlike the dragon that the West sees, the Chinese Dragon is a benevolent and gracious creature and is worshipped as the divine ruler of Lakes, Rivers and Seas. It is the powerful yet gentle ‘Loong" that brings rain to the earth, hastens the crops and cools the toiling farmer. It is one of the most popular of Chinese art motifs. It is sculpted on stone pillars, on Chinese temples and embroidered on beautiful gold and silk tapestries.
Legend says that the Dragon first appeared in the sky, while an heir to the throne was born, and the country was blessed with peace and prosperity for many generations thereafter. Thus, the Dragon served as a symbol of good fortune.
However, to the western world, the dragon is seen as evil, greedy, and mean. A hoarder of great wealth, it is said that if you are able to steal a dragons horde your family will be wealthy for many generations. They were sought out and slaughtered one by one, until most had gone far underground. That is how the western world perceives things they do not understand. They would rather destroy the very ground they live on than to understand the great burden that has been given to them.
Dragons are an ancient race that walked this land long before many creatures that roam the world today. They are part of the earth, the air, the water, and fire. Long-lived, they are also highly intelligent. If you are ever lucky (or to some unlucky) enough to spend time with them you would understand. For this is the primary reason Western Man fears the dragon. They show the frailty of humankind. That we are not the ultimate rulers of the world.
Now it is said that the dragons are the messengers of the gods and some say they are the protectors of the elements, and of the land. They are a mythical creature with great magic and great lore. They are all this, and much more. Their magic is old, ancient, and very powerful. They are very intelligent and their knowledge is vast, for they know many things. To befriend a dragon, is a commitment for your whole life. For you not only commit to the dragon, but to all dragon kind, humankind, and the riches of Mother Earth.
But just like humankind, there are good and bad dragons. Would you not be bad if you were not treated with admiration, love and respect? If all you have seen is hatred, how could you not show the same? Moreover, this is the primary reason why some (but not all) dragons are bad.
Good and evil is not a concept to the normal dragon. They only know what must be. Now some have been tainted, their hearts have turned as cold as the stone of their lairs. These are the ones that must be feared, for they know no fear. They are the ones whose colors have turned dark. They are the ones who have lost their truth. However, the others, whose colors are still bright and clear, are the ones who you must abide by, the ones who deserve your admiration for goodness and gladness are in their hearts still. They are here to help you, if you so desire it. However, do not take their gifts lightly, my child, for to accept the dragons favor places a great burden upon your shoulders. They will look to you to be their eyes and ears. You will become their helpers in the world. Moreover, you can never turn your back on them again. Their spirit will be around you and in you. You will walk with them, and they will walk with you until the end of time.
Now, Little One, it is your bedtime so bundle yourself off.
Night Papa
Good night Little One, Happy Nightmares
He sits, puffing on his pipe; the bowl is in the shape of a dragon. It glows to life again. In a voice only he can hear, “You did well Old One”
“Old one huh” and he losses himself in thought……
A conversation
So, you guys don’t believe in the Ten Commandments anymore, do you?
Huh, what do you mean?
Well, like, it’s a Christian thing right? I mean, I mean, Christians are suppose to follow them and all. So does that mean you guys don’t follow the Ten Commandments any more?
Well, shoot Mike, it’s like we have the Wicca Rede and there are some other little litany’s and such. But no, not really any Ten Commandments.
So, then, it’s o.k. for you guys to break those things then. You know, since you don’t follow them.
It’s a little more complicated than that. But wouldn’t you say that the Ten Commandments make some type of sense though. I mean, why not follow them? Just because they are a “Christian” thing or a Muslim thing, or any of the other multitude of religions out there, doesn’t mean it’s worthy of the trash just because you don’t adhere to them.
Lets take those Ten Commandments. Now, don’t most all religions have some type of litany, saying, verse, or written communications from a Higher Source stating virtually what those Ten Commandments state? I mean, they can be worded differently, but they will have something similar to them, right? Shouldn’t the Ten Commandments and others like that be more of a way of life than anything else? It would be a whole lot easier life if we wouldn’t run around stealing things, committing adultery, killing people, or any number of other things we shouldn't be doing. Makes common sense to me, that a person should lead a life that incorporates these thing, plus others. But the one I like the best – Do unto others.
Lets face it,
less stealing = less killing,
less adultery = less killing. (just ask your significant other about this one)
Where’s the problem????
Huh, what do you mean?
Well, like, it’s a Christian thing right? I mean, I mean, Christians are suppose to follow them and all. So does that mean you guys don’t follow the Ten Commandments any more?
Well, shoot Mike, it’s like we have the Wicca Rede and there are some other little litany’s and such. But no, not really any Ten Commandments.
So, then, it’s o.k. for you guys to break those things then. You know, since you don’t follow them.
It’s a little more complicated than that. But wouldn’t you say that the Ten Commandments make some type of sense though. I mean, why not follow them? Just because they are a “Christian” thing or a Muslim thing, or any of the other multitude of religions out there, doesn’t mean it’s worthy of the trash just because you don’t adhere to them.
Lets take those Ten Commandments. Now, don’t most all religions have some type of litany, saying, verse, or written communications from a Higher Source stating virtually what those Ten Commandments state? I mean, they can be worded differently, but they will have something similar to them, right? Shouldn’t the Ten Commandments and others like that be more of a way of life than anything else? It would be a whole lot easier life if we wouldn’t run around stealing things, committing adultery, killing people, or any number of other things we shouldn't be doing. Makes common sense to me, that a person should lead a life that incorporates these thing, plus others. But the one I like the best – Do unto others.
Lets face it,
less stealing = less killing,
less adultery = less killing. (just ask your significant other about this one)
Where’s the problem????
Tuesday, July 06, 2004
Compost pile
I ticked Mom off yesterday. Yeah, I was a bad boy. I tore down the compost pile and moved it. We had talked about it for a while now. I’ve warned her that I was going to do it. So, she knew it was coming. Still, confronted with it, it shocked her.
See, this was something that she created once she was able to. Dad would never have put up with it. I can just imagine what he would have said if he really knew. Dad was a hard-line leaf burner from way back and he would have torched them all the first year. But once dad got sick and wasn’t able to do those type of things anymore she took advantage. She created all types of stuff in and around the house. He never knew what hit him.
One of those was the compost pile. Now, the idea behind it is grand. Use organic material, let it break down on its own and it will create the best growing medium for your plants and flowerbeds. Have to give it to her that she did “somewhat” take care of it. But they are low maintenance and doesn’t take much to watch over. The problem is where she had put it. Now, to create the compost the fastest is to have it in a airy, sunny area (stir frequently). But to keep it more out of sight (more specifically Dad’s sight) she put it behind the garage under a big maple tree. Probably the most moist and dark area in both yards. It was a mosquito haven. With the West Nile scare, it had to go.
So, I tore out a bunch of the lilac bushes (another near heart attack) and cordoned off a spot of the yard on the west side of the garage. It should have direct sunshine from about 11:00 to about 4:00 everyday. Plus it will be more open on three sides now. That added to the fact that we cut the tree down last year has opened the back yard more anyway.
So, I took the potato fork and dug into it. If it went through the tings of the fork then it was dirt, if it didn’t, it wasn’t. Took the “dirt” and spread it around the yard and took the “not dirt” and put it in the new compost pile. Cleaned up the whole area and then moved the swing back in that corner. I even had some sandstone and created a little stone pad to put the swing on. Plant some flowers or herbs around the area and VOILA, a nice sitting area. Now, if I can keep the area opened up, Mosquito haven has been destroyed.
But, while I was doing all that, my mind kinda wandered off and I thought about how she looked when she first walked out and saw me digging into the compost pile. I’m reminded that she is getting more and more like her mother (my grandmother) every day.
My grandmother was a unique person. She was 101 when she passed away a few years ago. When told about President Kennedy’s assassination, the only comment she made was that it wasn’t a nice thing to do. Her comment when man walked on the moon “That’s nice.” I really don’t think she comprehended either one of those major events. Her point of view: If it didn’t affected her life, her immediate life, then it really didn’t matter. The price of milk, loaf of bread, or the hot dogs bothered her. Getting out in the yard and tending her garden and flowers, cooking and washing bothered her. But what happened away from her 60 by 80 life didn’t really matter. Oh, we can debate the merits of it but the key thing is that she lived WITHOUT worrying about them. There was little to nothing she could or would do about it anyway, so why worry about it at all. It didn’t effect her, it didn’t matter, and she lived to 101 with a stress level that was virtually nothing.
I’m reminded of this fact daily. The self-brought on stress that I accumulate is brought on simply because I worry about things way too much. Some, granted, I can do something about, but there are things that I simply can not change. I would much rather worry about the price of milk, loaf of bread or cooking and washing than to worry about when that meteorite is going to strike the earth, the Illuminate, or any of the other myriad of conspiracy theories that are out there.
You can steal candy from a baby, but is the outrage worth it?
See, this was something that she created once she was able to. Dad would never have put up with it. I can just imagine what he would have said if he really knew. Dad was a hard-line leaf burner from way back and he would have torched them all the first year. But once dad got sick and wasn’t able to do those type of things anymore she took advantage. She created all types of stuff in and around the house. He never knew what hit him.
One of those was the compost pile. Now, the idea behind it is grand. Use organic material, let it break down on its own and it will create the best growing medium for your plants and flowerbeds. Have to give it to her that she did “somewhat” take care of it. But they are low maintenance and doesn’t take much to watch over. The problem is where she had put it. Now, to create the compost the fastest is to have it in a airy, sunny area (stir frequently). But to keep it more out of sight (more specifically Dad’s sight) she put it behind the garage under a big maple tree. Probably the most moist and dark area in both yards. It was a mosquito haven. With the West Nile scare, it had to go.
So, I tore out a bunch of the lilac bushes (another near heart attack) and cordoned off a spot of the yard on the west side of the garage. It should have direct sunshine from about 11:00 to about 4:00 everyday. Plus it will be more open on three sides now. That added to the fact that we cut the tree down last year has opened the back yard more anyway.
So, I took the potato fork and dug into it. If it went through the tings of the fork then it was dirt, if it didn’t, it wasn’t. Took the “dirt” and spread it around the yard and took the “not dirt” and put it in the new compost pile. Cleaned up the whole area and then moved the swing back in that corner. I even had some sandstone and created a little stone pad to put the swing on. Plant some flowers or herbs around the area and VOILA, a nice sitting area. Now, if I can keep the area opened up, Mosquito haven has been destroyed.
But, while I was doing all that, my mind kinda wandered off and I thought about how she looked when she first walked out and saw me digging into the compost pile. I’m reminded that she is getting more and more like her mother (my grandmother) every day.
My grandmother was a unique person. She was 101 when she passed away a few years ago. When told about President Kennedy’s assassination, the only comment she made was that it wasn’t a nice thing to do. Her comment when man walked on the moon “That’s nice.” I really don’t think she comprehended either one of those major events. Her point of view: If it didn’t affected her life, her immediate life, then it really didn’t matter. The price of milk, loaf of bread, or the hot dogs bothered her. Getting out in the yard and tending her garden and flowers, cooking and washing bothered her. But what happened away from her 60 by 80 life didn’t really matter. Oh, we can debate the merits of it but the key thing is that she lived WITHOUT worrying about them. There was little to nothing she could or would do about it anyway, so why worry about it at all. It didn’t effect her, it didn’t matter, and she lived to 101 with a stress level that was virtually nothing.
I’m reminded of this fact daily. The self-brought on stress that I accumulate is brought on simply because I worry about things way too much. Some, granted, I can do something about, but there are things that I simply can not change. I would much rather worry about the price of milk, loaf of bread or cooking and washing than to worry about when that meteorite is going to strike the earth, the Illuminate, or any of the other myriad of conspiracy theories that are out there.
You can steal candy from a baby, but is the outrage worth it?
Well I have received the THREE (3) Witchie approval rating. So, that means I will continue to bug you guys by writing stuff – aren’t you glad.
Yep, yep, yep – got these replies:
From an email correspondent: Loved it
From Twiddle-dee-dee: Yes – fine
From Brianna (my wife): It’s pretty good (well – that is better than “It’s not bad” isn’t it)
So, anyway, the way I keep score, that is a Three (3) witchie-type approvals. So, on my scale of 1-4 and 4 being the highest, then I did really well.
Life – it’s all how you perceive it to be.
Yep, yep, yep – got these replies:
From an email correspondent: Loved it
From Twiddle-dee-dee: Yes – fine
From Brianna (my wife): It’s pretty good (well – that is better than “It’s not bad” isn’t it)
So, anyway, the way I keep score, that is a Three (3) witchie-type approvals. So, on my scale of 1-4 and 4 being the highest, then I did really well.
Life – it’s all how you perceive it to be.
Monday, July 05, 2004
Witchie People
interesting link on Blue Moons
http://skyandtelescope.com/observing/objects/moon/article_127_1.asp
Mom is funny. As you know, we live next door. I won't go into the big history etc., but if you know me you probably have been bored with all the details already.
Anyway, she came over yesterday (July 4th), as is her usual habit when we are home, to have a cup of coffee and chit-chat. As she plopped into the chair she said; "Happy 4th of July, Independance Day, Flag Day, or whatever you "Witchie" people celebrate. If you guys celebrate today." "Yes Mom, it's Independance Day for us too." As a person who is in her late 70's, she has finally confronted her biggest fear - her daughter as a Catholic and her son as a Pagan.
She has learned a lot this last couple of years about Wicca, Paganism and what "we do." Frequently left books or papers on the kitchen table has had blatant headlines of Living Wicca, Magical Herbalism, Duid Magic, and other Witchie Stuff books. She has had an insightful gleeming of what these books entale. The kids have also found out in a round-a-bout way too. Especially when a ritual happens to fall upon a date that one of them were coming over. We mentioned we were busy and have slowely talked to them about what we do. My sister also has had an informal and a "mater-of-fact" we are pagan-types.
So, what is my point in all this? Matter of fact - Oh by the way - instead of IN YOUR FACE explanations worked just fine for us to tell the family. Well immediate family anyway. We still haven't done a ritual outside. Well, the few "private" moments outside with very little fanfare I wouldn't count. But one of these days.......
That got me to thinking though, (Uh oh - **** WARNING **** ) why does mom think we are "Witchie People?" What makes us "Witchie People?" Just because we have books and papers sitting on the table, certain "witchie" stuff situated around the house, doesn't really mean we are "Witchie People" does it?
"Witchie People" or being wiccan or pagan has to be more than just having the right "equipment" or stuff decorating your house. It's more than just telling the world you are pagan, it's a way of life and how you live it. From saying a few words over the washer as you do laundry (use rosebuds by the way), a litany to the stove as you cook, or the way you greet the morning light, how you do these helps to mark you as a pagan.
Being Pagan means more than just not being christian, muslim, or jew. It is finding the God and Goddess in all the things we say and do. It is finding the Spirit whenever and wherever we are. It is walking out in the yard and finding the Spirit in the blade of grass, the trees, the breeze, the clouds and all the world around you.
Light candle
O' Goddess of the Moon
Earth Mother
I thank you for watching over me
and mine this night
Light candle
O' God of the Sun
Lord of the Fiery Light
I request your presence
watch over me and mine this day
Evening
Light candle
O' God of the Sun
Of the Forest and the Mountains
I thank you for watching over me
and mine this day
Light candle
O' Goddess of the Moon
Of the waters and the Earth
I request your presence this evening
watch over me and mine throughout the night
Use those small candles that last about half hour or so - allow to burn completely down
It matters not what you say in life, it is truly how you live it.
http://skyandtelescope.com/observing/objects/moon/article_127_1.asp
Mom is funny. As you know, we live next door. I won't go into the big history etc., but if you know me you probably have been bored with all the details already.
Anyway, she came over yesterday (July 4th), as is her usual habit when we are home, to have a cup of coffee and chit-chat. As she plopped into the chair she said; "Happy 4th of July, Independance Day, Flag Day, or whatever you "Witchie" people celebrate. If you guys celebrate today." "Yes Mom, it's Independance Day for us too." As a person who is in her late 70's, she has finally confronted her biggest fear - her daughter as a Catholic and her son as a Pagan.
She has learned a lot this last couple of years about Wicca, Paganism and what "we do." Frequently left books or papers on the kitchen table has had blatant headlines of Living Wicca, Magical Herbalism, Duid Magic, and other Witchie Stuff books. She has had an insightful gleeming of what these books entale. The kids have also found out in a round-a-bout way too. Especially when a ritual happens to fall upon a date that one of them were coming over. We mentioned we were busy and have slowely talked to them about what we do. My sister also has had an informal and a "mater-of-fact" we are pagan-types.
So, what is my point in all this? Matter of fact - Oh by the way - instead of IN YOUR FACE explanations worked just fine for us to tell the family. Well immediate family anyway. We still haven't done a ritual outside. Well, the few "private" moments outside with very little fanfare I wouldn't count. But one of these days.......
That got me to thinking though, (Uh oh - **** WARNING **** ) why does mom think we are "Witchie People?" What makes us "Witchie People?" Just because we have books and papers sitting on the table, certain "witchie" stuff situated around the house, doesn't really mean we are "Witchie People" does it?
"Witchie People" or being wiccan or pagan has to be more than just having the right "equipment" or stuff decorating your house. It's more than just telling the world you are pagan, it's a way of life and how you live it. From saying a few words over the washer as you do laundry (use rosebuds by the way), a litany to the stove as you cook, or the way you greet the morning light, how you do these helps to mark you as a pagan.
Being Pagan means more than just not being christian, muslim, or jew. It is finding the God and Goddess in all the things we say and do. It is finding the Spirit whenever and wherever we are. It is walking out in the yard and finding the Spirit in the blade of grass, the trees, the breeze, the clouds and all the world around you.
Light candle
O' Goddess of the Moon
Earth Mother
I thank you for watching over me
and mine this night
Light candle
O' God of the Sun
Lord of the Fiery Light
I request your presence
watch over me and mine this day
Evening
Light candle
O' God of the Sun
Of the Forest and the Mountains
I thank you for watching over me
and mine this day
Light candle
O' Goddess of the Moon
Of the waters and the Earth
I request your presence this evening
watch over me and mine throughout the night
Use those small candles that last about half hour or so - allow to burn completely down
It matters not what you say in life, it is truly how you live it.
Sunday, July 04, 2004
Flat Footed
O.k. so I got caught flat-footed and I don't like that - nope not one bit. You better believe that I am going to remedy that situation.
So, what am i talking about?? Full Moon kiddies. Yep yep yep, flat-footed and couldn't think of one fricken thing to say. Daaa, duhhhhhh ah ah ah - nope wasn't good. I mean, I have this reputation of being so full of hot air to maintain - come on - and I couldn't think of one fricken thing to say. Geesh, what about all those books I've read - nope not a word.
And where should I have turned to for this kinda of help? Where are we all suppose to turn to when all else fails. Yeah, you know what I mean. Book of Shadows, Grimore, Blessed Book, Spell Book, or whatever you feel to call it. Are there not suppose to be stuff in there to help? You know, magical, secret stuff. And wouldn't calling the Quarters be something that is magical secret stuff?
Well now, I surely think it is and I'm going to remedy that this week. See I am on vacation this week and I am going to make it a point that I write 2 hours per day in this book. Should have been doing that all along anyway. Guess what will be the first thing I am putting in it????? BINGO - calling the quarters - my way or better explanation - the way I would call them if I was going to have to call them using my own words (whew).
So, I will come up with these words and put them in my Book. I also think I will publish a short and sweet Calling here to. How about if you would send a comment as to how you would want to Call the Quarters if you had to do it on the cuff sorta speak.
Love and Light
rog;
So, what am i talking about?? Full Moon kiddies. Yep yep yep, flat-footed and couldn't think of one fricken thing to say. Daaa, duhhhhhh ah ah ah - nope wasn't good. I mean, I have this reputation of being so full of hot air to maintain - come on - and I couldn't think of one fricken thing to say. Geesh, what about all those books I've read - nope not a word.
And where should I have turned to for this kinda of help? Where are we all suppose to turn to when all else fails. Yeah, you know what I mean. Book of Shadows, Grimore, Blessed Book, Spell Book, or whatever you feel to call it. Are there not suppose to be stuff in there to help? You know, magical, secret stuff. And wouldn't calling the Quarters be something that is magical secret stuff?
Well now, I surely think it is and I'm going to remedy that this week. See I am on vacation this week and I am going to make it a point that I write 2 hours per day in this book. Should have been doing that all along anyway. Guess what will be the first thing I am putting in it????? BINGO - calling the quarters - my way or better explanation - the way I would call them if I was going to have to call them using my own words (whew).
So, I will come up with these words and put them in my Book. I also think I will publish a short and sweet Calling here to. How about if you would send a comment as to how you would want to Call the Quarters if you had to do it on the cuff sorta speak.
Love and Light
rog;
uh oh
**** Warning **** **** Warning ****
Operator error
operator error
Eye Dee Ten Tea at the controls
We are going down
May day May day
Houston - We have a Problem
rog;
Operator error
operator error
Eye Dee Ten Tea at the controls
We are going down
May day May day
Houston - We have a Problem
rog;
well you see
Well I had reservations about my first post so I thought I would try to change it. Tried 3 times and have given up. guess that means my second post will try to recreate the update to the first post. Wow, what insightful thoughts I have today.
This is a place where I am going to subject The Sacred Few to my thoughts. Hopefully they will inspire you to post a comment.
I had some other ramblings about enlightened and infinite wisdom and yada yada yada but didn't think I would bore you with my self-promotions.
Love and Light
rog;
This is a place where I am going to subject The Sacred Few to my thoughts. Hopefully they will inspire you to post a comment.
I had some other ramblings about enlightened and infinite wisdom and yada yada yada but didn't think I would bore you with my self-promotions.
Love and Light
rog;
Saturday, July 03, 2004
First Day
Hello world;
Drum roll please, O.k. so I finally did it and created a blog. This is just a place for me to infringe on the Sacred Few who will get the link. I hope that this forum will inspire you to make comments on my elightened and infinite wisdom. I hope to post frequently, but time will tell how often I will be able to. I don't know where my thought pattern will ramble from day to day so reader beware.
Love and Light to all
rog;
Drum roll please, O.k. so I finally did it and created a blog. This is just a place for me to infringe on the Sacred Few who will get the link. I hope that this forum will inspire you to make comments on my elightened and infinite wisdom. I hope to post frequently, but time will tell how often I will be able to. I don't know where my thought pattern will ramble from day to day so reader beware.
Love and Light to all
rog;
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