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Living on the Edge – New Moon in Libra

Posted in Auspicious Days, Esbat, Lunar, The Temple of the Sun on September 23, 2014 by themagickalpen

September 23.2014

New Moon in Libra
2:14a.m. (EDT)

Sun in Libra

The Moon transits New early tomorrow morning into the astrological sign of Libra. Libra calls into being the beauty of a human existence and all many of art, culture, music, writing and creative inspiration are held on the delicately poised scales. The key to Libra’s success in refining lay in the mind set that to effectively achieve balance, one must be familiar with what the extremes are. It is a matter of being comfortable with those extremes and living equally at the edge of what would pull the balance in an unfavorable direction and with grace and agility maneuver just so. The balance that Libra idealizes is quite often not one of equanimity. It is instead the balance that occurs when just the right measure of whatever is needed to bring justifiable grace to the situation is employed and by so doing, completely shifting the focus towards what would have remained hidden and unappreciated.

This last statement is one that flows through any artistic endeavor and as we all have heard countless times, “beauty, is in the eye of the beholder”. With these thoughts in mind I invite you to take a creative journey into the Halls of Libra via the creative writing of a pathworking. The very action of having written this journey exemplifies the grace of understanding and the delicate balance in producing something that will be visually evocative and energetically transformative. What is born from this journey is the emotional beauty found in the gift of the word and what new work will be begun in the stepping on its path. All of this speaks more eloquently to the power of Libra’s expression than any technical observation I could give.

So, breathe deeply, and enter the Hall of creative inspiration…..

THE HALL OF LIBRA

Turn your focus and attention to your breath. Allow the space of your consciousness to move with the rise and fall of your chest and the filling and release of the lungs. Continue in this manner for several breaths; allowing each to become softer, smoother and slower. With each breath your physical body appears to become lighter and your center of consciousness floats upwards towards the inner eye. You feel enveloped by the mist of transition between the Physical and Astral. And as this veil thins you step through a veil of dark blue mist and find yourself standing centrally in a circular room. As you look around you see that this space opens out to a star lit night sky. The velvety blackness above holds a twinkling of starry light that fills the panoramic view above. The walls encircle you and are of a deep bluish purple. As your eyes adjust to this room you notice an archway just ahead of you. The glyph of Libra, the Scales hovers in the entryway.

You step through the glyph of Libra into an ornate and richly decorated room filled with gold and gemstones. Surrounding you are workbenches and expert jewelers and metal smiths crafting rings. The gold is measured precisely on scales that gleam and balance with the slightest breath of touch, and after careful weighing and scrutiny for imperfection, it is melted into a liquid spun of light and heat. As the mold is filled with this refined essence, gems of varying shapes and sizes are inspected and one, a rare and perfectly faceted emerald, is selected to be the main focus of the piece of jewelry.

As you look around, you notice artwork that is beautiful and insightful on each of the walls. Each brush stroke appears to have been precisely placed and the spectrum of color vibrates in intensity and hue. Each painting has been hung with just the correct amount of lighting and the pieces of sculpture are placed in a pattern that is aesthetically pleasing and functional.

You step through a doorway and into another room where shelves of books line the walls and you have the sense that each has been carefully selected and placed adjacent to a corresponding title that would enhance the readers’ pleasure. This room smells of fine leather binding and ink on pages of delicately crafted paper. The librarians move quietly around this space, each collaborating with another before placing a book just so. Everything is very peaceful and those sitting at luxurious wooden reading tables have an expression of contentment on their faces. You are surrounded by luxury, beauty and harmony of mind and heart. You step over to one of the bookshelves and reach towards a beautifully leather bound edition of Leo Tolstoy’s Anna Karenina. You leaf through the pages and decide that you are not in the frame of mind right now to beginning reading such a weighty tome. You place the book back on the shelf and as quickly as its edges skim the shelf’s edge there is a pause in the energy of the room. One of the librarians moves towards you and those at the reading table look up from their books as though disturbed by an annoying sound.

A slender hand reaches out and quickly plucks the book from your hand and places it just a few books away on another part of the same shelf. She quietly informs you that each book has its own spot on the shelf. Each holds its own particular place in the larger organization of the books lining the shelves. She continues to explain that although all the books are not the same size, shape or weight, each is important to the overall balance and aesthetic visual quality that displays order, well planned thought and precise action. She then turns and walks back to the project she was engaged in before the disequilibrium of your misplacing the book.

You are neither offended nor apathetic about the exchange that just took place. You understand the need for that type of balance and order and appreciate the refined and gentle way in which you were corrected about your action. You step through the doorway and reenter the space of artisans and jewelry makers and think about how they too have a certain order they must follow. Each component in the paintings may not be of equal measure, but together they form a beautiful image.

You pause as you look around and muse a little more deeply on this concept. This is not a place that is easy to leave but as you stand in the midst of all of this beauty a feeling of sadness wells up within you. You realize that this opulence is not the normal standard for most. That beauty this rare is not often enjoyed by those of limited means. You see an underlying and certain darkness about this place and as the brilliance of gold and gem dims you notice the vastness of this space.

You turn and take in this sight one last time and gently close your eyes and when you open them you are surrounded by the blue veil of energy that carried you to this inner sky. As you take a few more deep breaths and fill the intent with awareness of your physical being and return to your physical space, the mist clears and the smells, sounds and sights of the room in which you began our journey floods your senses. You feel the floor beneath you and the chair on which you are sitting. Noises of the mundane world come back filling ear and mind with thoughts of going about the rest of your day or evening. You take a deep breath of inhalation, savoring the vestiges of your astral journey and the insight it provided, and strongly exhale out affirming your oneness with the present moment of physical time and space.

Blessings of the Libra Moon

Next Post:

Sunday, September 28.2014

The Tree of Grace

Full Moon in Pisces: The Analytical Heart

Posted in Auspicious Days, Full Moon, Lunar, The Temple of the Sun with tags analysis, celestial, compassion, cosmic, earth, Esbat, esoteric writings, Full moon, Neptune, Pisces, Temple of the Sun, Virgo, Water on September 8, 2014 by themagickalpen

Image Credit: Sadness of Gaia by Josephine Wall

September 8.2014
Full Moon in Pisces
9:38 p.m. (EDT)

Sun in Virgo

The opposition of astrological energy that naturally occurs during a Full Moon phase is the tug of war between what appear to be opposing energies. At the time of this Full Moon the Solar energy is expressed by an astrological sign whose prime directive is that of categorizing and breaking down the flaws of any process (Virgo) and the opposing energy of overflowing compassion and deep understanding that makes allowances for those imperfections which is found in the astrological sign of Pisces.

This Full Moon is called the Harvest Moon. According to the Farmer’s Almanac…

“This full moon’s name is attributed to Native Americans because it marked when corn was supposed to be harvested. Most often, the September full moon is actually the Harvest Moon, which is the full Moon that occurs closest to the autumn equinox. In two years out of three, the Harvest Moon comes in September, but in some years it occurs in October. At the peak of harvest, farmers can work late into the night by the light of this Moon. Usually the full Moon rises an average of 50 minutes later each night, but for the few nights around the Harvest Moon, the Moon seems to rise at nearly the same time each night: just 25 to 30 minutes later across the U.S., and only 10 to 20 minutes later for much of Canada and Europe. Corn, pumpkins, squash, beans, and wild rice the chief Indian staples are now ready for gathering.”

If we think of this harvesting energy as it applies to the work we do within our personal place of harvest, the Full Moon in Pisces (with the strength of the Sun in Virgo) allows us to apply the lessons of grace and understanding as we harvest what we wish to sustain us. This is the goal of arriving at a place of heart-centered scrutiny.

This Full moon is also the closest to the Autumnal Equinox and holds the keys to refining what we will place upon the pause of balance that marks the sharing of equal hours of light and dark. If we choose carefully (Virgo) our intent of focus and use the wisdom and discernment of an intuitively guided heart (Pisces) our efforts in the world of Light/Day and the reserves we hold in the stores of Darkness/Night will fuel and support the work that lay ahead as we descend deeper into the waning of the Year.

Another clue to the potency of this Full Moon’s dynamics lays within the modality of expression that Virgo and Pisces represent. Both are of the Mutable modality, which is flexible and expansive in its expression as it seeks the threshold of endings and provides the fertile space for the next cycle of beginnings. Additionally, Virgo is of the Earth element and Pisces of the Water. One serves as the container (Virgo) of receipt and boundary that is reshaped anew by the deep waters (Pisces) that seek to gently guide towards the Gates of the mysteries of a more heart-centered space of discernment. Envision this:

The carefully harvested (Virgo) ground of earth’s yielding foundation has been heated and enlivened by Father Sun’s rays of light (Sun in Virgo). As night descends, there is a stillness of anticipated intention, as all know Mother Moon will soon rise in all of her glory. The first rays of moon-beam stretch seeking out every crevice like long flowing fingers across the earth. These flow like rivulets of water moving across the expanse of land. You stand watching this gentle yet persistent flow of moonlight and your heart is filled with love and the deep understanding (Moon in Pisces) of the cycles and energy of Sun and Moon.

Soon, everything you see around you is flooded by the Light and Fullness of the Moon’s glow. All is bathed in this flowing sea of outpouring. All is healed by its presence. All is lifted upon the waters that rise towards the moon-lit sky of night. The light ebbs and flows as the tides and cloud cover or shadow of tree or building momentarily offer shadow. You wait in this silent glow and feel the energy move through you, awakening all of the flowing waters of emotional expression and insight within. You stand holding the flame of sun’s fire deep at your core and the waters seek the depths of that fiery furnace. Water and Fire, breath of Air and in-spiration move as one and the dynamic electrical charge that signals the death of this moment in time and the heralding of the next cycle that will give birth to the beginning of a quickened and changed you continue their course.

You breathe deeply into each cycle of this ebb and flow of rising waters and the opening of a more compassionate heart as the night gives way to the dawning of a new day of Solar refinement and the opportunity to once again carefully harvest what will feel the expansive reach of Luna’s Pisces Moon.

Moon Conjunct Neptune 5:09am

As we know the Moon brings depth to our emotional inner-scape and Neptune – the ruling planet of astrological Pisces fills the coffers of heart-centered engagement to full capacity – and then some. Early this evening, the Moon and Neptune will form an aspect of conjunction. A conjunction occurs when two planets are within 0-10-degrees of each other (sharing the same astrological sign and in very close proximity to one another). It is often considered to be the most powerful aspect because of the intensity of support for the involved planets, one to the other. Each acts as a support (positive or negative) to the other, which intensifies the effects of each individually towards goal of the collaborative power burst.

With the conjunction of the Moon (water/emotions/intuitive energy) in an astrological sign of great emotional depth and the support of Neptune (water/deep connection at the subconscious level) we have opportunity to draw upon our intuitive nature to guide the process of what we wish to bring to the fullness of emotional expression. The caution would be one of over-flooding the grounds that have been carefully prepared (Sun in Virgo) during this Solar Month. Reach deeply into these waters but allow yourself to surrender to where and how deeply they take you. Read more about the Neptune Retrograde here:

Lifting the Veil: Neptune Retrograde

The Analytical Heart

This evening our coven will honor the Full Moon in Pisces as we sit and scry into the flames of an outdoor fire pit. The Harvest Moon will shine brightly overhead as we open to the flow of heart and the depths of guidance and understanding that flow as the waters of Goddess within us. As we look into the heart of the flames the dross and lack of clarity will be burned away as Solar fire and Virgo’s hand of the maiden gently unravels the strands of light that block and impede our opening. We will call forth the analytical heart that remains steadfast in its understanding and flexible in its desire to create fertile ground for growth. And, as what has previously stood as foundation breaks down, cracks and etches a new pattern of process, the analytical heart of verdant life will remain as the source of this productive change.

Resources and Reflections

Pisces in Related Posts:

Full Moon in Pisces- 2013

The Temple of the Moon:

Waning Moon in Pisces

Day Eighteen: Meet Me at the Water’s Edge – Waning Moon in Pisces

Day Seventeen: Looking for Compassion – Waning Moon in Pisces

Next Post:

Temple of the Sun- Virgo

The Magick of Virgo

What Sort Are You? New Moon in Virgo

Posted in Auspicious Days, Esbat, New Moon, Retrogrades, The Temple of the Sun with tags astrology, cosmic, Esbat, esoteric writings, mutable, new moon, Temple of the Sun on August 25, 2014 by themagickalpen

August 25.2014

New Moon in Virgo
10:13 am (EDT)

Sun in Virgo

The Moon enters its Maiden (New) phase this morning in the astrological sign of Virgo. The New Moon is an excellent time to begin workings that require the energy of the initial flow needed for beginnings. One of the correlates would be the energy of the sunrise or dawn. A new day is a beginning that is packed full with the potential to become whatever you desire most by the time it reaches the fullness of mid-day. So too, the lunar cycle of the New Moon offers the opportunity to harness the energy of expansion towards the fullest expression of what you wish to bring into manifestation at the Full Moon.

The collaborative efforts of the Sun and Moon offer the exchange of transformative (Sun) fires held in the foundations of Mother Moon’s flow. Virgo’s energy provides the vessel of container that offers the ability to sift and sort through what fills its. The New Moon is the first phase of that process and as the Moon and Sun Wax in energy each new step reveals another layer to be processed. When we reach the Fullness of the Moon’s energy all that has gathered from that process has been readied for the heart-centered flow of the Pisces Full Moon.

The energy of Virgo is one of defining through the process of analysis and a Virgo New Moon offers the opportunity to sift through our emotional waters and filter in a purposeful way that reveals the nuggets of Gold hidden within. Add the dynamic of the Sun’s energy and we have the support of the masculine and feminine principles, collaboratively working together in support of manifesting a stable foundation that is both prosperous and abundant. This is the earthy quality of Virgo and the ability to draw from its resources concrete and useable products.

The energy of the New Moon expressed through this process of testing and analyzing offers the opportunity to align heart and what we “feel” about whatever the Virgo energy is focused upon as an additional measure of its viability before it is broken down into the parts that become the sum total of a new whole.

Let’s Talk About It

Mercury, the planet of communication is also in the astrological sign of Virgo. The Virgoan energy creates a communication style that is riddled with detail. And, I do mean “riddled”. This gives the dynamic of lots of information to be shared about a singular query. So much so, that the answer may seem to be so buried and the means by which it is communicated so muddled by facts and statistics that it’s difficult to receive the simpler message.

More Layers of Detail

The three outer planets, Uranus, Neptune and Pluto remain retrograde. These are the planets that were discovered in more modern times and are considered to be the higher amplifications (esoteric expression) of three of the Seven Elder Planets:

Electrically Charged Uranus in Fiery Aries adds dynamic awareness to talkative and naturally head-strong Mercury

The veiled Watery depths of Neptune (and His Trident of Fire) in Pisces lifts the loving refinement of Venus to a place of compassion

Pluto in Earthy Capricorn finds the cyclical wisdom of peace and regeneration in the brutality of Mars’ aggression and wielding of death’s mark

Uranus has been slowly and incrementally turning up the volume on our neurological receptors. With the advent of this New Moon, the ability to concretely hone in on what needs the closer scrutiny of Virgo’s New Moon may seem like a moving target. Take some deep breaths and consciously slow down the approach. The Moon as She begins her phase of Waxing will offer the healing waters that can be used to quiet this frenetic energy. The key here is finding the balance between productive stimulation that calls us to action aiding Virgo’s need to analyze and giving body and mind the adequate rest and relaxation that will prevent the process from overwhelming.

Neptune provides the gift of being compassionate and gentle with ourselves as we peel back the layers of all aspects of ourselves with Virgo’s assistance. Tap into these deeper waters of the emotional self with the attitude of gifting yourself with the grace and intuitive sight to see clearly and respond appropriately to what is reveled in this journey of excavation.

The Pluto retrograde in the astrological sign of Capricorn continues its efforts to bring into realization the mistakes and successes of past efforts. The goal is one of strengthening what moves forward from this point in a way that will insure that the resultant action taken will stand the test of successfully navigating future challenges. Pluto, in its form as the planet associated with Death and ancestral knowledge offers great potential for acceptance of the frailty of what we build if we only see its permanence defined in the present moment. The gift of Death is in the ability to reach back into the reserves of what created the being that we currently are and realize the impermanence of that vision as ever changing and reforming into what is continually in the process of being birthed anew.

The opportunity during this Virgo New Moon and as the Sun also waxes in strength under Virgo’s scrutiny lay in being able to access the Plutonian wisdom of all time and all space and use this as an additional layer of support as Virgo goes about its work of refining. Capricorn is an Earth sign very much aligned with the mind-space of physical and spiritual vessel of self and can serve to inform more deeply the space of “between” what we have as past learning and what we will become. This is the space of the present where we are able to make the adjustments needed.

The slowing of their orbits and seeming pause invokes a vision of being under the watchful gaze of developed mind (Uranus), heart (Neptune) and Will (Mars) to act. I would encourage you to re-read the posts about Uranus and Neptune’s Retrogrades.

Uranus Retrograde: Deflecting the Light

Lifting the Veil: Neptune Retrograde

What Sort Are You?

Take some time on the eve of this New Moon to sort through how you define yourself in the physical world. What are your strengths? What would you like to bolster and strengthen? Writing it down gives your impressions a concrete and tactile energy as the words manifest on the paper.

Now, look at what you have written and as you go through each trait, pause and allow your feelings (Moon) to settle in around what that trait is. This is the narrowing down process. When you’ve gone through each thing, select one that you would like most to really dig a deeply into and cultivate. This will be the focus of your intent of working as you move through the Solar Month.

Sit in quiet reflection and begin to allow yourself to open responsively, ready to take a closer look at the trait you have selected. As you move through this month, the energy waxing toward the Full Moon, spend some time each day peeling back the layers that comprise this trait and being open to the opportunities that may present that enable you to express this trait in a deeper way.

The process would look something like this:

One of the characteristics I would like to explore more deeply and refine is my impatience. I move and think very quickly and at times become (unjustly) annoyed when everyone else does not keep pace. As I sit under Virgo’s New Moon and make this the focus of my efforts, I am going to analyze why I choose to respond in this way. I would also be considering how it may make other’s feel when I respond impatiently. As I move through the Solar Month, I will continue to explore this response and pause and make note whenever I perceive myself to be impatient.

As I sit in my daily meditation, I will revisit this state of impatience and identify what prompted it, analyze I this was an appropriate response or simply me reverting to natural tendency. I will incrementally and purposefully gather this information and with each addition to what I come to know about the reasons for my response in this way, I will be able to fine tune how and when to use it in a productive way.

An Additional Note for Consideration:

Mars (assertion and action) is conjunct (working in collaborative support) Saturn (order and) structure today (3:30 p.m.). This would be an optimal time to use this energy of action in an orderly and structured way as an adjunct to the already very methodical Virgo. Whatever you choose to sift and sort through will be supported by taking the action needed to reestablish order as it is re-assembled by Virgo’s grace.

Read More About Virgo Here:

Analysis and Building- New Moon in Virgo

Analyze This! Full Moon in Virgo

Temple of the Moon Postings:
Day Six: Still Waters All Around Me! – Waxing Moon in Virgo

Day Five: Let Me Break It Down – Waxing Moon in Virgo

Day Four: Cubism – Waxing Moon in Virgo

Next Post:
Sun in Virgo – Details of the Tree
Sunday, August 31.2014

Full Moon in Aquarius-Breath of Liquid Flame

Posted in Auspicious Days, Esbat, Full Moon with tags Air, aquarius, Aries, candle magick, capricorn, celestial, cosmic, earth, Esbat, esoteric writings, fire, fixed modality, Full moon, Leo, Magick, Pisces, Retrograde, Scorpio, Temple of the Sun, Water on August 9, 2014 by themagickalpen

August 10.2014
Full Moon in Aquarius
2:09 p.m. (EDT)

Sun in Leo

The tension has been building and tomorrow afternoon the Moon waxes full in the astrological sign of Aquarius. No doubt, you may have noticed that people are a little more “hot-wired” than usual with nervous energy flowing like water. Uranus (now retrograde and potent as an exposed electrical wire) is the master of electrical impulse (and the physiologic neurologic system) and is the ruling planet of the astrological sign of Aquarius. Add the expansiveness of the Full Moon and flowing emotions, mind (Aquarius) and the nervous energy (Uranus) and you have electricity discharging at an emotional level.

Fire and Water is the theme throughout this Moon’s waxing with Airy Aquarius churning up the waters of Mother Moon. Additionally, the Fixed Modality of Aquarius is prevalent in the planetary energies and offers the necessary guidance and stability to hold the blast of this phase. This potent phase of transition that we have been feeling for quite some time now is ready to co-mingle, interweave and establish a place of pointed balance where the vision of a new collaboration may be realized.

(Photo taken as I was driving home tonight)

As though this were not complicated enough, there are multiple planetary energies that are weighing down the acceleration pedal of a fixed and stable vehicle that would otherwise move in a relatively smooth course from A-Z in lightning speed. This is the routine process of Aquarian energy having the greatest strength in matters of the mind and the ability to process large quantities of information quickly and reduce it to a single logical summary in a very short period of time. Apply this information processing style to matters of the heart and the flowing waters of emotion (the Lunar qualities) and you have rapidly moving and expansive waters that open out to many smaller streams of potential for expression as mind (information) carves out various open-ended options.

Something to Fix-ate On:

The Moon is not the only planet being held in the grip of an astrological sign of the Fixed modality. The stable nature of the Fixed modality can also become the rigid controller that serves as a pressure cooker, if appropriate release does not occur at some level. In this case, the focus of this pressure and the resultant pent up nervous energy is the felt from the effects of six planets in Fixed astrological signs. These are:

Sun, Mercury and Jupiter are in Fixed Fire – Leo
Moon in Fixed Air – Aquarius
Mars and Saturn are in Fixed Water – Scorpio

This is the Triad of Creation, the breath of life igniting the flame of form in the birthing waters. This fixed energy provides the container for manifesting, but can also give the feeling the feeling that there is very little wiggle room and that the flexibility of options are not at hand.

Mars and Saturn both in Scorpio

Mars in Scorpio produces an assertive and /or aggressive way of expressing your emotions. This is the energy that is punctuates by those “zingers” that come out of nowhere and are often the dredging up of long held emotional issues that have gone unsaid. Saturn then attempts to regulate and organize in cleaning up the aftermath of depth charges that have exploded. Remember I said “nervous energy” in the beginning? Most of this type of interaction is from the accumulation of pressure building until just the precise time, just the precise audience and just enough tension is gathered and nervous energy spews out what could not ordinarily have been said.

The Sun, Mercury and Jupiter in Leo’s Fires

Jupiter in Leo calls into action those sweeping fires that consume and gather into their light everything. This is the expansive nature of Jupiter and the wildfires of Leo’s need for acknowledgement can soon blaze out of control if not purposefully directed and contained.

Mercury is in the astrological sign of Leo as well. Bold, in your face and filled with passion and determination. Moon in opposition to Mercury. So, although you may be bursting at the seams ready to communicate the wisdom of your new experiences, what you say and do may be in conflict with what you are actually feeling making for frustration and difficulty making your needs known. Nonetheless, everything is drawn into the spotlight and the scramble is on to produce and perform.

The Three Outer Planets are Watching!

Electrically Charged Uranus adds dynamic awareness to talkative and head strong Mercury

Veiled Watery depths of Neptune (and His Trident of Fire) lifts the loving refinement of Venus to a place of compassion

Pluto finds the cyclical wisdom of peace and regeneration in the brutality of Mars’ aggression and wielding of death’s mark

Uranus Retrograde: Deflecting the Light

Lifting the Veil: Neptune Retrograde

Pluto’s Extremes

The Pluto retrograde in the astrological sign of Capricorn continues its efforts to bring into realization the mistakes and successes of past efforts. The goal is one of strengthening what moves forward from this point in a way that will insure that the resultant action taken will stand the test of successfully navigating future challenges. Pluto, in its form as the planet associated with Death and ancestral knowledge offers great potential for acceptance of the frailty of what we build if we only see its permanence defined in the present moment. The gift of Death is in the ability to reach back into the reserves of what created the being that we currently are and realize the impermanence of that vision as ever changing and reforming into what is continually in the process of being birthed anew.

The implication here is that accessing the Plutonian wisdom of all time and all space and using this as the tool of grounding (Capricorn is an Earth sign very much aligned with the mind-space of physical and spiritual vessel of self) can help to soothe the fiery flow that is agitating and ultimately stretching us- ready or not- towards a broader emotional perspective.

An Image of Transformation

When I was searching for an appropriate image (and title) for this post I had a specific vision in mind. As I went through multiple fields, none seem to speak to what I wanted to visually capture – until I came across the image of a Mudra. The depiction is a variation of the Jnana Mudra; most commonly seen in depictions of the Buddha and hands resting on each top of the thigh.

In the practice of using Mudras, the thumb indicates the Cosmic (Divine) principle of consciousness and the index finger represents the Individual (human) consciousness. The Jnana Mudra is considered the Mudra of Wisdom and is most commonly recognized as the position of the hands seen in support of a sitting meditation practice. In its simple form the fingers are relaxed and point downward (as in seated Buddha) and not interlaced.

In its expression of reaching towards Spirit the hand is placed with extended fingertips pointing upward (heavenward) at heart level. In the image I selected we have the interlacing of the circle of finger and thumb and the tips of both hands touching forming a triangular point heavenward. Wisdom is held within wisdom. The Divine and the human centered and finding the space of common ground(ing). Fire and water, sun and moon overlapping and becoming as one as the breath of air fuels the flame, moves the waters and is gently held in the circle of continuum that serves as foundation for the apex of Spirit arising.

The Breath of Liquid Flame

On the evening of the Full Moon our coven will be celebrating this Full Moon doing a working of pouring candles that each member uses in their personal work to connect with the energy of the coven. We chose this Aquarius Moon as the bringer of the charge of inspiration and mind to infuse our candles. We are an Air coven (meaning that our coven tool is a sword). Using the energy of this Full Moon we are calling on the flame (the heated wax) of potential to flow (melted wax) bringing us into the Light of our own Divinity (the work of solar Leo). We breathe into this liquid flame our energy to coalesce within the vessel of stability that we have crafted (hardened candle). And, the intent and subsequent use as a tool of connection when we are physically unable to be present honors the universal and visionary perspective of Aquarius as it seeks to unify and network for the future of humanity.
Blessings of this Full Moon!

Resources and Reflections

Aquarius in Related Posts:

Sun in Aquarius
The Lion’s Share

New Moon in Aquarius
The Speed of Light

The Temple of the Moon:

Waning Moon in Aquarius
Day Sixteen: Looking Further

Full Moon in Aquarius
Day Fifteen: On A Clear Day You Can See Forever

Neptune Retrograde
Lifting the Veil-Neptune Retrograde

Uranus Retrograde
Deflecting the Light

Next Post:

Temple of the Sun- Leo
The Magick of Leo

Uranus Retrograde: Deflecting Light

Posted in Auspicious Days, Retrogrades, Uranus with tags cardinal, celestial, esoteric writings, fire, Leo, Retrograde, Uranus on July 21, 2014 by themagickalpen

10:53 p.m.
Stations Direct: December 21.2014*

By definition deflection is… the act of changing or causing something to change direction (Merriam Webster Dictionary). I’ve chosen this analogy for the Uranus Retrograde as a way of defining the potential held in being able to actually feel the impact of an energy that normally moves rapidly and transparently through our being. We flip the light switch in our home and the room is illuminated. We don’t think about the process that has gone into the efficiency of that action and at times we even perform that action as transparent habit. But, everything that goes into the speed of connect between transformer, wiring, switch and hand transforms the space we are in and thus our perception and abilities to perform optimally in that space. This is the energy of Uranus.

Uranus Stations Retrograde in the astrological Fire sign of Aries of the Cardinal modality at 10:53 pm (EDT) tonight. Being expressed through the energy of an astrological Fire sign adds to the intensity of this planet’s energy and the pulsing of electrical current that runs much like high amp voltage throughout. Uranus is the planet of upheaval largely because the energy and inspiration from it comes quickly and seemingly unexpectedly. The key word here is “seemingly” because in reality the groundwork has been laid, although often in a transparent way, and once the path is open for use energy pours through effectively and efficiently. The rebellious attribution associated with Uranus refers more to the natural byproduct of disruption that will occur pushing us out of our comfort zone and/or apathetic state and less to it being the youthful upstart that simply wants to reek havoc because he/she can. There is purposeful action in Uranus’ breaking through and the end goal is one of making sure that all lines of communication are open, ready to receive and disburse and respond quickly when needed.

Uranus is the great electrifying current that rebelliously stirs up whatever its force is put upon. This planet is considered the higher octave of the planet Mercury, the great communicator. The communication set into motion with Uranian energy is that of blazing its way through the circuit boards and enlivening and quickening instantaneously. During this retrograde everything will feel slightly off-course, primarily because of the build-up of energy that has now slowed its speed and exerts pressure wherever an obstruction is found. If it can’t get through, it will most definitely go around, which will feel like additional pressure in areas that may have ordinarily been the outliers. If the electricity can’t go through the wire directly it will back up and short-circuit or disperse fiery charges all along the path.

Additionally, Uranus acting as a motherboard of communication moves at the speed of light, which means this energy quickens and transforms by agitation and exciting the “cells” of whatever it is placed upon. Physiologically, this out pictures as an over stimulation of neurological function. No doubt you may have felt particularly “ansy” for no reason. Because Uranus will for the next several months be hovering in its focused intent it will have the feeling similar to that of pent-up energy that is held in a container that must remain still. Think back to how you felt as a child wanting to ask a question of a parent who was busy at the moment, and you were told to sit quietly and wait until Mom or Dad were off the phone!

Saturn stationed Direct yesterday, July 20th so the rigid container and need for ultimate structure that Saturn has imposed begins its process of loosening as it returns to its forward movement. That doesn’t mean that there still won’t be the tug of war between organized Saturn and scattered Uranus, but the responsibility will now lie within the prevue of Uranus to hold firmly on to what it ignites and allow focused will to form the suitable container for it to be released in time.

Neptune in astrological Pisces and Pluto in astrological Capricorn still remain in their retrograde pattern so we can, if desired, apply the Uranian charge to the deep waters of Neptune as use them to cauterize and heal wherever e feel an overload of electrical discharge. Additionally, Pluto in earthy Capricorn can bolster those over heated wires with re-calling into our physical mundane activities the memories of strategies and coping skills that kept us moving with confidence and assuredness even when we were the most energetically challenged.

Bottom line is that there is lots of shuffling and shifting of emphasis as the planetary energies move into their next dance of interaction. Where you choose you focus these energies depends greatly on what you are hoping to gain by way of change. If you wish to clearing those blockages (of mind or will) that keep you from feeling the energy and pulse of quickened life use the cobalt blue streams Uranian electrical fires. If you want to focus on stirring up what fuels your compassionate and healing nature work with the intention of green flow of Neptune (stations Direct in November).

And, if you wish to manifest the forgotten pieces of your existence move through the yellow stream of Pluto’s(stations Direct in September) synthesis of form. And, the life’s blood that carries the DNA and collective memory of you as a being of Light flows through the red stream. These are the multiple streams of light that are refracted through the prism of your energetic and physical fields. How that light is deflected into the singular beam of pure brilliant Light depends on how we choose to use these retrogrades of transformation. Be kind and gentle with yourself during these next few months, offering the least resistance so that the opening to a new way of shining that inner light can take hold.

Tomorrow the Sun enters the Fixed Fire sign of Leo and things
are going to heat up even more during this Solar Month.

* Triple Header: Uranian energy begins to awaken from its pause of intensity on the date of:

The Winter Solstice

This will be the longest night of the year as we stand ready and waiting the glimmer of dawn’s Light and the beginning of the waxing of the Sun. This is the point where we are able to gather to ourselves what we wish to bring forward from the dark landscape within for closer scrutiny and what we choose to remain behind. This would include those catalytic impulses that have been building up steam and readying to be propelled forward in typical Uranian style.

New Moon in Capricorn and Sun Transits into Earthy Capricorn

Bear in mind that Capricorn is an Earth sign of the cardinal Modality. Its prime directive is that of manifesting in the earthly realms. This is a sign of physical and very concrete realities, so with the boost of New Moon (beginnings) energy and a Cardinal (catalytic components for beginnings) Earth (physical) astrological sign of Capricorn holding the space for Uranus’ energy to push through any blockages we have created for ourselves using whatever we have energized during the retrograde to be brought into our physical and manifest existence.

Full Moon in Capricorn- Earth Waters

Posted in Auspicious Days, Esbat, Full Moon, The Temple of the Sun with tags capricorn, earth, Full moon, Lunar, Magick, Water on July 11, 2014 by themagickalpen

Full Moon in Capricorn
July 12.2014
7:25am (EDT)

Sun in Cancer

The Moon waxes full tomorrow morning (7:25 am EDT) in the astrological sign of Capricorn. The Full outpouring of moonlight lights up the landscape of our physical world and being and our feelings about our place within them. As with every Full Moon the astrological sign of placement is that which lay directly in opposition to the placement of the Solar Month on the zodiacal wheel. We have been exploring the energy of the solar month and Cancer’s focus towards nurturing and healing. Capricorn, as an Earth sign provides the tools and physical reality through which the realized potential of what love, loyalty and strength of home have the power to create. Its intent is one of slow and steady progress in manifesting the lengths and breaths of its dreams and desires. The point of tension between these two energies is one of nurture vs. nature. The nurture here is that of Cancer and the nature that of the responses of the greater world and community to what we have learned from the experiences of loving support. This is the definition of ourselves and the ability to be loved by those who are not part of our home life and offer their support based upon those lovable qualities we have successfully cultivated. These are the flowing waters (Cancer) of the persistent river that with time move the boundaries of earth (Capricorn) and move out to the Sea.

The image associated with Capricorn is that of the mythical sea-goat; equally at home in the depths as well as being able to deftly and precisely scale the steepest cliff. All the while, the primary source of stability emanates from the central space of physical landscape and earth’s support. Saturn is the ruling planet of Capricorn. Saturn is the Lord of Time and the energy of structure as held by the Gates of Time. This gives Capricorn a seemingly expansive perspective on time and using that broad view to set goals and with organized deliberation go about achieving them. This intent can also produce inertia and the fear of moving into unknown territory. The trick here is to recognize the opportunity that is arms reach away and then be unwavering in the intent to seize the day.

The Sun is mid-point in its energy of cycle and holds the wisdom of the parent in the maturity of Cancerian outpour. The energy of this parent is one of offering reassurance and providing the emotional support that enables the recipient of this love to move strongly and sure-footedly through the adventure of life. We have felt the flowing waters of Cancer as we have moved through this solar month and everyone has had difficulties of one sort or another that have provoked deep responses and emotional reaction.

Both Cancer and Capricorn are of the Cardinal Modality; meaning that each has a natural predisposition towards getting things started and paving the way using this energy in a catalytic way. Capricorn as an Earth sign provides a space of central point from which things may expand towards future aspirations or submerge into the safety of those full and ripe waters of the lunar tides. Using this energy in conjunction with the healing waters of Solar Cancer keeps those waters as a source of renewal and revitalization that can only be found within the space we call home. Capricorn offers the necessary strength and agility to navigate life’s hurdles and when applied to the waters of the Full Moon, this agility is that which can carefully navigate the turbulence of a rocky sea.

Energetically, this Full Moon is ripe for workings that are directed towards making optimal use of those opportunities that allow our feelings to remain anchored in the strength of those concrete realizations that keep us on the daily path while we explore how resilient we can make them as they stray further from that center of surety. Add the strength of the Solar Month and the “mothering” of Cancer and the recipe is one that will bring comfort and support to all endeavors.

Additionally, we have some other astrological refinements that make this Full Moon one that allows us to dive deeply into those waters that run below the surface and ultimately provide the sustenance that is required to support the natural greening of our physical state of being. These are the Retrogrades whose influence we have been feeling at the depths of our emotional and physical selves and for many have created drama where normally there was smooth sailing:

Saturn (Scorpio) Direct on July 20th
Neptune in the astrological sign of Pisces
Pluto in the astrological sign of Capricorn

The intensity and building up of what has out-pictured as emotional release for the past few months has had the stimulus of Saturn exacting its structure to what has needed to be drawn up into the light. This energy was directed through waters that lie submerged and often become the undertow. Scorpio has churned those waters and the healing of Cancer’s Sun has warmed what was cold and enlivened what was dead within. This re-defining and re-shaping moves forward with the product of its efforts on July 20th.

Neptune adds another level of intensity as compassion and empathy continue to carve out new modes of expression with Pisces’ intention of “feeling” your way through the life experience. And with each of these layers of watery expression added to the waxing of the Full Moon’s flow a higher level of understanding has been reforming who we believe ourselves to be.

The Moon pairs up with retrograde Pluto in Capricorn and what lay at the furthest reaches of our awareness of self now has opportunity to manifest from the deliberate and calculating energy of Capricorn. The caution is one of trusting the process and trusting that we are truly deserving of reclaiming those pieces of our true nature that have waited at the periphery for us to call them back to us.

As I write this, the rain is coming down in torrential downpour, the ending to a bright and sunny day. I am in my home, secure and surrounded by the years of love that are held in every space of it. Sheets of water are running down the streets and their shape is being changed by the boundaries and border of curb and grass that mark the sidewalks. For anyone who is out walking, there is no way of avoiding getting wet (even with an umbrella) as it is a driving and windy rain that holds no respect for shelter or cover.

For me personally this month as been one of my emotions taking the reins. For on who normally proceeds strongly under the guidance of mind, the over- abundance of water has been overwhelming at times. The lesson I have gained in this is that of my being more fully in touch with my physical state. Eating well, exercising and having fun and unstructured time have helped me to navigate some of these emotional challenges from a more human place.

This process has been neither comfortable nor comforting, but I have reminded myself of the Mother’s tough love at times and that being the only way that her child will stop, look and feel the weight of their non-productive actions. The waters that are continuing to find ways of new expression are moving out from a place of love and these are the waters of Cancer and Mother Moon. This is the gift of Carpicorn in creating those boundaries within fertile and life-giving earth that can withstand the gentle flow of calm waters and the torrential downpour of a storm of emotional upheaval.

Resources and Reflections:

Capricorn in Related Posts:

New Moon, New Year!

The Temple of the Moon:

Day 13: Rise to the Occasion: Waxing Moon in Capricorn
Full Moon : Ritual of Anchoring

Neptune Retrograde

Lifting the Veil-Neptune Retrograde

Next Post:
Temple of the Sun- Cancer
The Magick of Cancer

Mercury Stations Direct Today! Go Slowly!

Posted in Auspicious Days, Mercury with tags Air, esoteric writings, void of course, Water on July 1, 2014 by themagickalpen

Mercury stationed direct today at 8:50am. Breathe into this release of pressurized communication, but go slowly as you open up the gates that have held at bay what you “really” wanted to say. Although, Mercury is Airy in elemental quality, its natural tendency towards expression moves in bursts and flow, much like water. Think Water of Air and its quality of ebb and flow, contraction and expansion as it carves its way through the atmosphere. This is also the application of air is creating the tsunami that overtakes everything in its path.

The moon moves into the astrological sign of Virgo at 5:24pm, so emotions will be put under the scrutiny of Virgo’s earthy analytical order through Friday at 12:21 am when the moon transits void. Virgo’s action is to create the solid ground that has been crafted and tested to ensure its viability. These are the points of anchor and the bouys that keep you afloat in the turbulence of the sea. And, we continue to navigate these seas as there is still an abundance of watery energy with the Sun in Cancer, Jupiter in Cancer, Saturn Retrograde in Scorpio and Neptune Retrograde in Pisces.

So, go slowly as you navigate these varying levels of seascapes lest you get caught in the undertow. Think before you speak. Feel your way through the loosening up of communication’s back log and ease into the flow of expression and style that typifies the best you can communicate.

New Moon in Cancer – Arms Wide Open

Posted in Auspicious Days, Esbat, New Moon, The Temple of the Sun with tags astrology, cancer, cardinal, celestial, cosmic, Esbat, esoteric writings, new moon, Temple of the Sun on June 27, 2014 by themagickalpen

June 27.2014

New Moon in Cancer
4:08 a.m.

The Moon enters its New phase in the wee hours of the morning in the astrological sign of Cancer. The waters are running high as the blaze of the Sun in Cancer aligns with the coolness and healing of Mother Moon. Their dance is one of new lovers excited by the simple thought of being held in the loving embrace of their beloved. Additionally, we have the influence of three (3) other planets in water signs, two of which remain Retrograde:

Jupiter is in the astrological sign of Cancer. Expansion of what flows within our emotional reserves and emphasis on the energy of ebb and flow, receipt and release are the work of Jupiter. Jupiter is strongly related to abundance and financial gain, so how we feel and what expansive response we have regarding our finances may reach the point of overflow.

Neptune remains Retrograde in the astrological sign of Pisces and is the King of the tidal seas. We have been feeling these effects beginning on the 9th of this month, adding a deeper well to draw from and to dive into.Read more about the Neptune Retrograde here:

Lifting the Veil

Saturn remains Retrograde in the astrological sign of Scorpio. Order, structure and refining what has held us captive in the cavernous prisons of our own sea-caves has been the disruptive tsunami that may have risen to epic proportions beginning with its station on March 2nd.

And, although not in a Water sign, don’t forget that Mercury remains retrograde (stations Direct on July 1st.) in the latter stage of its pause. So, everything is up for debate, scrutiny and snafus of understanding. Add the emotions to this brew and there is the potential for over reacting and wasting valuable emotional reserves in restoring a calm perspective.

Interestingly, with these assignations, the alchemical element of Water is represented by all three of its modalities of expression. The Cardinal (Cancer) energies of initiating and stimulating the aspects of heart, emotion and ultimately, desire are held within the polarities of Sun and Moon and the progeny of their co-mingling in the expansive nature of Jupiter. The Fixed (Scorpio) and stable energy of creating a worthy vessel to traverse these at times turbulent and deep seas is held with Saturn’s steering of the course. And, the Mutable (Pisces) gifts of rebirthing what lacks empathy and compassion is raised to the surface of light by Neptune’s Trident of Fire and Will. With all of this water in abundance, there is maximum potential for surrendering to the natural ebb and flow of relationships and partnerships and to also allow for the organic erosion of those shorelines that have kept the greater portion of a sea filled with extraordinary life from touching the heart-stone of our longing for home and family.

The New Moon is an excellent time to begin workings that require the energy of the initial flow needed for beginnings. One of the correlates would be the energy of the sunrise or dawn. A new day is a beginning that is packed full with the potential to become whatever you desire most by the time it reaches the fullness of mid-day. So too, the lunar cycle of the New Moon offers the opportunity to harness the energy of expansion towards the fullest expression of what you wish to bring into manifestation at the Full Moon.

Given the comfort that Cancer takes from drawing to itself a nurturing space, workings that have the intended goal of seeking out suitable and supportive environments and people that will allow you to thrive will benefit from this energy. The expansiveness of Jupiter’s energy in the sign of this action offers the flexibility of what you wish to be so to adapt in accord with the waxing of the moon and carrying forward of this goal towards fullness. Neptune’s gift of Pisces is one of deep intuitive healing that will insure that what is achieved has weathered the storms and knows the need for compassion in forging ahead. And, Saturn guides the flow of effort so that what needs release may effectively loosen its hold as the waters flow smoothly and unhindered.

Arms Wide Open and Hands Filled With Love

On the eve of this New Moon I’ll be meeting with our coven to discuss our future and what we need to nurture and tend to keep us healthy and whole. This is my spiritual family and the sacred space that is created simply by the presence of those others within our Tradition is the home I have chosen to serve within. These experiences are what provide the sense of stability and care that enable us to move out into the greater world knowing that there are welcoming arms always awaiting us and the encouraging touch of hands that are filled with love.

Next Post:

Sun in Cancer – A Home on the Tree
Sunday, July 5.2014

Resources:

For a refresher about moon magick and a new poem check out my other blog, The Magickal Pen:

Moon Magick – Healing Waters

Another New Moon in Cancer 2013

Read more here in the Temple of the Moon

Day One: Flowing Through the New Moon

Take Me Home- The Sun in Cancer

Posted in Auspicious Days, Retrogrades, The Temple of the Sun with tags astrology, cancer, cardinal, celestial, cosmic, esoteric writings, fixed modality, Neptune Retrograde, Retrograde, Temple of the Moon, Temple of the Sun on June 21, 2014 by themagickalpen

Sun in Cancer

6.21/2014
6:51 am (EDT)

Planetary Ruler: Moon

Summer Solstice

Mysterious Course

Follow the stream
As it weaves on its own
Mysterious course.

Moon rises and waters
Of life ebb and flow back
To the shore of foundation.

Emotion wells up and
Spills out strongly changing
Everything in its path.

Relax into the current
And trust in the
Depth of its reach
The waters will heal
If you sink into their
Loving embrace.

The Sun transits into the astrological sign of Cancer, early this morning. The world will be awakening from the dreamscape and early morning rituals of preparing for work, breakfast, getting children off for activities and everything that speaks of home life and family is just beginning the day. This is appropriate timing for the Sun’s transit into the astrological sign that is the quintessential symbol of hearth and home.

The astrological sign of Cancer is one of the element of Water and the Cardinal Modality. Its planetary ruler is the Moon, whose qualities of emotion, intuition and healing nurtured by the Great Mother are overt in our mundane and spiritual efforts. The natural energy of Father Sun, that of shedding great light on whatever is in its spectrum is now cooled and comforted by the soothing waters of Mother Cancer’s natural gifts.

This solar month offers an opportunity to settle back into the arms of what nurtures you. There is maximum potential for the healing of old wounds, crafting new and deeply fulfilling relationships and feeling the warmth of Summer’s Sun enveloping you in the same warmth of a loving embrace. The astrological sign of Cancer brings this energy to the place of new beginnings and fresh starts as we explore what motivates us at an emotional level and who and what we consider home.

Additionally, this Solar month is an opportunity for alignment of the polarities of Sun and Moon (ruling sign of Cancer). This alignment occurs at the level of the mundane as well as the spiritual. When we feel safe, secure and nurtured (Moon/Cancer) we go on to display these same qualities to all we meet, shining brightly and magnetically attracting more of the same (Solar).

The caution is one of overindulging the emotional aspects to the point of overflow and over sensitivity. Feelings can quickly overtake us when it comes to family (and friends) and what was meant to keep connection flowing can quickly turn to smothering and stagnant waters. Digging deeply into our emotional reserves brings much satisfaction in the long run, but diving head first into waters that have not been tested for appropriate depth can produce a broken spirit that requires long and masterful healing.

All of the Water signs fully embrace the ebb and flow of the emotional tides. Cancer not only embraces, but to a large degree embodies water at its most human and vulnerable level of expression. We all wish for a loving home life and fulfilling relationships. This is not the selflessness of Pisces (also Water) that prefers to provide that home or the expectation of Scorpio (also Water) that believes it to be their right. In the case of Cancer this is the seeking of affirmation that they are indeed lovable unconditionally. If this awareness is achieved by loving oneself in this way and is tended well and nurtured this is the greatest gift that astrological Cancer can bestow.

The Element of Water

The Water signs express themselves through the filter and guidance of emotions. These are the most intuitive of the signs and can also be the most emotionally overwrought if care is not taken to set boundaries in place. In the sign of astrological Cancer, water is most at home moving with the ebb and flow of the moon’s pace. Those born under the sign of Cancer are generally homebodies and loyal to a fault that seek connection at the deepest of the emotional levels. These are the outpourings from the womb of creation.

A Cardinal Modality

As we have seen the energy of the Cardinal signs is one of catalyzing and initiating new beginnings. The first Cardinal sign we encountered was appropriately one of Fire and served to begin the cycle of the Zodiacal wheel and Solar Year. The initiating quality of this sign was one similar to that of striking a match, setting fire to the will to create and providing the fuel to carry that intent forward.

The Cardinal energy expressed through a Water sign initiates the emotions in a way of pushing the boundaries of these waters out beyond what would hold them hidden in the subconscious. This is the catalyzing of longing and yearning which ultimately will produce the vessel of receipt that brings to term the desired goal.

Be gentle as you rush out
Spilling greedily from
What has been opened.

My heart reaches out fervently
Seeking the embrace of home.

Oceans fill my cup of
Yearning to know the
First stirrings of love.

I am cast about on
Waters that bubble up
Tumultuous at times
Hungering for a companion.

Let these waters of need
Erode away the shores of
What holds me back from
Reaching those I hold dear.

Let the waters flow
Fully and deeply that
Carry me home to you.

The Next Step

Knowing how each sign moves to the next and the interaction between each as they evolve towards completion (and threshold of renewal) of the wheel in the astrological sign of Pisces tells its own unique story of the Wheel of Time. When we reach the last sign of the zodiacal wheel, Pisces, we will have experienced four (4) rounds of the three forms of energy expressed as the modalities (Cardinal-Fixed-Mutable). Maintaining the idea of the evolving dynamics of each of the Zodiacal signs as we move through the solar year, so too, the Triad of Modalities gains a more momentum, maturity and focus of application as we move through each of these rounds.

Cancer is the fourth* sign of the Zodiac, and begins a new Triad of the Modalities Cardinal to Fixed to Mutable, each flowing into the other. Being of the Cardinal Modality, the quality of Cancer is that of beginnings and catalytic flow. These are the first bubblings up of what will become a life giving stream of water. These are the first and tentatively offered words of love offered to one you hope will become a lover. This energy is the first bond made between mother and new baby as precious mouth cries out for the nourishing flow of Mother’s milk and comforting breast.

If we look at the dynamics of energy thus far, beginning with the Cardinal sign of Aries, we could think of the three signs that begin the astrological wheel as the quickening fires (Aries- Fire) within the body of manifestation (Taurus- Earth) that gives rise to aspiring towards the heavens (Gemini- Air). Arrival at the next iteration of a new cycle of the Triad of Modalities and beginning this new flow in the sign of Cancer aligns mind with heart and the ultimate catalyzing of what stands fully in the Light of day.

* The number 4 represents stability and foundation. This is the geometric shape of the square; equilateral sides that support and provide a stable base to expand in any direction. This is the quality of Cancer. The love we know (or lack of) plays a great role in how stable and anchored we feel in all of our subsequent relationships. The work of Cancer is restructuring and shoring up our emotional foundations so that we thrive and are able to love and be loved.

The Moon is the Ruling Planet of Cancer. Just as the tides move in a pattern of ebb and flow, so too does the energy of Cancer in affecting the mood and emotional tone of any situation. The natural tendency of Cancerian energy is that of creating foundations that flow and move in accord with what is felt. Safety and security, particularly at an emotional level are a requirement for movement out of that comfort zone to occur. The ease with which this occurs is based in what is considered home with those thought of as family being high on the list of priorities in any consideration. Trust and feeling comfortable in any situation are also attributes that require cultivation when Cancer is in full force. This is prime energy for cultivating deep and lasting connections to what you truly love and feeling secure enough in that love that you are willing to put yourself (emotionally) out there.

Read more about the dynamics of the Moon and Her changeable face in:

The Temple of the Moon

Preparing the Way

At this time of the year in the Northern hemisphere, we celebrate the Summer Solstice and the vibrancy of life and all that has come to fruition. This is the space of the year where we gather to celebrate educational achievements, weddings, vacations and any special occasions that offer us opportunity to be with those we cherish. We geared up for this outreach in the previous month of Gemini as we moved outdoors and became more expressive in the ways we connected and communicated. Now we link the heart of follow through in the plans and promises we made and the ways we have chosen to express our appreciation and pride in those near and dear. The vibrancy of the Sun and the heart focused energy of Cancer lights the way to safe harbor. Home becomes the place of picnics and barbecues and we gather our stores of all the sunshine and moments of interaction; knowing that the Light is waning and the home and emotional ease we have created will be our sanctuary in the winter storms ahead.

In the Southern Hemisphere the emphasis is on the beginning of the Waxing year and the return of increasingly longer sunlit and warmer days. The generating of ideas and the flow of communication expressed in the previous month was one of introspection sheltered from the cold as the armchair inventor and awaiting the burgeoning light of the upcoming Solstice. Now, as the Solar Year transits into the comfort of Cancer, what has offered the comfort of home and family is ready to be infused us as we enter a state of enlivened and newly birthed light within. These foundations of emotional stability and resource will serve well as we venture outdoors with the coming of Imbolc and Spring.

Both are states of movement and require the flexibility of expansion and contraction. This is the ebb and flow of Mother Moon and the opening to her gifts of healing and emotional attachment. The lessons of relationship gained by lighting up those emotional bonds with the outer world (Summer Solstice) or of the inner self (Winter Solstice) have opportunity to reach deeply into the core of who we are as we heal and transform how we “feel” our way through our lives. The goal is one of stimulating the flow of these precious waters to soothe and heal what will receive the full expression of strengthening and Light in the months ahead. This state paves the way for the next phase of growth and expansion when the Sun transits next into the Fixed sign of Leo (whose ruling planet is the Sun! We’re Going to Heat it Up!).

Read more about the Solstices their dynamics of Light:
WitchVox: Sabbat Articles and Poems

It’s All About the Feeling

As we transit into the Solar month of Cancer, the planets – Mercury, Saturn, Pluto and Neptune remain retrograde. The emphasis here is on the Neptune Retrograde and its watery connection to Cancer. Neptune is the ruler of the third of the Watery astrological signs, Pisces. If we wish to think chronologically, Cancer is the child who seeks the approval of family and thrives in a home that is loving, supportive and caring. Scorpio (the second water sign) is the young adult who seeks attachment in a more mature and often sexual way; seeking those partnerships that may evolve into the creation of what they desire their familial and home life to be. Pisces (the third water sign and last of the Zodiacal wheel) is the elder, who has memories of lovers and loves past, knows the expanse of their emotions and freely gives those healing waters to all in need.

This added emphasis raises the waters of our intuitive and feeling nature as we move through the Solar Month. These are the waters that allow all that you wish and hope for to be energized and supported by what you have learned about yourself through past experience and relationship. These are the waters that allow you to be fully present as you create your own space of nurturing. These are the waters that run strong and free carrying you to parts of yourself, yet unknown.

Read more about Neptune’s Retrograde:
Lifting the Veil- Neptune Retrograde

Take Me Home:

This solar month is one of connecting more deeply to family, friends and home as you relax into the healing waters that nurture and sustain you. In the chronology of the Zodiac, this is the space of time to reassess, strengthen and re-forge the bonds to those we offer our devotion and loyalty to, both mundanely and spiritually. This is also the time to allow the drifting away from you that which keeps you submerged and anchored in a way that is not productive. This is the emotional phase of the teenager who sees the world through eyes that are still trusting and at times leave them open to heartache and hurt. This is the space of first loves and having the security of family which allows you to stray a little further away from that base as you explore the world around you. Instinct and intuition are just beginning to mature and hormones flood bodies that live in a world of emotional drama and angst as they seek to define who they are.

And, so in the spirit of Cancer’s intuitive and unpredictable waters and we call forth the energy of the Sun as it continues its zodiacal cycle, once again we repeat the invocation that opened the Gate to this Temple. As you read through it think back to passions and dreams of your teen years. Think back to the perception you had of everything flowing easily through your grasp as these running waters soothed emotions that were heated and unpredictable. Think back to the joys and sorrows and the reliable and comforting support of those you considered family. Think back to what you called home; it may have been your best friend’s house, a favorite hang-out, or the venue of an after school activity (for me it was the theater and ballet studio).

What keys to the greater knowledge of RA’s power of sustained light is hidden within the heart that has felt the gift of family? This is the gift of finding your place in the world and the power of sharing this gift with others as you walk this journey of life. Use this gift wisely this month as we invoke the Solar month in Cancer and allow those fires of RA to move through you as the healing waters of enlivened energy that calls you home.

Hymn to RA

All Hail to Thee, Mighty RA
Blaze of noon day sun.
Your fiery orb high in the
Sky above as we kneel
Beneath the heat of
Your radiance.

All the Gods bow to your radiance
All the Goddesses sing hymns of praise
To Your glory and man
Lays prostrate in humility
And devotion at the altar of
Your making.

Sweet music of adoration and offerings
Brought forth from the Black Land
Rise up in praise and thanks for
Your Sustaining Light.

All darkness flees at the touch of Your hand
All ceases its movement as Your expansive
Rays stretch across the morning sky.

The lotus opens to receive Your Touch
And the sands glisten as rare jewels
As You gaze upon each grain washed
Clean in the boundless ocean that
Reflects the brilliance of your face.

All Hail to Thee
Amun-RA
All Hail to Thee
Who sits high
Above the world.

Khepra in the East
Atum in the West
Whose eye holds the
Point of Life and the
Trifold Arc of Power.

Your eyes see all and
You are the place of return
Within the glowing blackness
Of the Midnight Sun.

All Hail to Thee
All Hail to Thee
Amun, Amun, Amen!

Next Posting: Friday, June 26th.

With Arms Wide Open – New Moon in Cancer

and

Bonus Pathworking: The Hall of Cancer

Full Moon in Sagittarius-Ready, Aim, Shoot!

Posted in Auspicious Days, Esbat, Full Moon, Lunar with tags astrology, celestial, fire, Full moon, gemini, mutable, Sagittarius on June 12, 2014 by themagickalpen

Full Moon in Sagittarius
6.13.2014
12:11 am (EDT)

Sun in Gemini

The Moon waxes full early tomorrow morning (12:11am EDT) in the astrological sign of Sagittarius. The Full outpouring of moonlight punctuates the fiery nature of Sagittarius and its dynamic of reaching outward expansively and intentionally. As with every Full Moon the astrological sign of placement is that which lay directly in opposition to the placement of the Solar Month on the zodiacal wheel. We have been exploring the energy of the solar month and Gemini’s very stylized and expressive method of communication. Sagittarius also is a master of communication with its style being one of gathering everyone together, establishing community and then letting the natural rhythm of communal dialogue run its course. There is an underlying goal of expanding horizons while remaining within a specific comfort zone. The point of tension between these two styles produces the potential for the sharing and distribution of community based communication that reaches a much larger audience and has enough momentum (Gemini is the movement of air and Sagittarius the spark of flame that rises higher with air’s fueling).

Both Gemini and Sagittarius are of the mutable modality; meaning each has the a natural predisposition towards expansion, flexibility and being able to extend beyond the norm as long as rigidity does not set in. Sagittarius as a Fire sign heats those full and ripe waters of the lunar tides. Using this energy in conjunction with the cooling air of Solar Gemini keeps those waters moving and flowing never reaching the boiling point that would evaporate what efforts had been made. It is a sign of action. Sagittarius not only walks the path but blazes the trail and lights the way as it moves through new experiences.

The symbol associated with Sagittarius is that of the archer. The overwhelming energy of Fire is that of transformation through change. Typified by the Archer, this is the fire that sends its sparks out in many directions with the aspirations that one or two will energize, take root and ultimately become the bonfires that quicken and transform. Sagittarius is the ninth sign of the Zodiac and as such the action of this energy initializes and catalyzes the will to action.

The ruling planet of Sagittarius is Jupiter. This planet as no other naturally causes expansion, whether it is desired or not. Prosperity and abundance are common themes of this planetary energy and it is this dynamic that ensures that the fiery arrows of distribution released from the bow of Sagittarius are propelled far and wide before touching down. Making use of this expansive energy is as simple as filling the lungs and then sighing into the release.

Energetically, this Full Moon is ripe for workings that are directed towards bolstering the will (Fires of Sagittarius) within the creative waters (Moon) that spur you on towards your desired goals. This is the basic premise of successful working. Being emotionally engaged in what is desired is not enough. Those emotions need to be fired up enough to encourage will full action towards the goal. As the old adage goes- “wishing won’t make it happen”. Add the strength of the Solar Month and the inventive mind of Gemini and all are working towards manifestation and realization of what is most desired.

Additionally, we have some other astrological refinements that make this Full Moon one that could really become the pivotal point where change can begin. Neptune stationed retrograde a few days ago so the focus is on the deep waters that hold the mystery of our emotional nature. This supports the fullness of the Moon in a way that allows for some retrieving of those subconscious past memories that have informed your present state; bringing up for closer look and then applying the healing that may be needed.

Mercury also stationed retrograde a few days ago as well. The focus is on hypersensitivity to what is being communicated and making sure that there is no misunderstanding. Have this pause as the archer is gearing up to shoot the arrows of networking and communal effort gives that extra point of re-sighting so the arrows hit the intended mark and don’t go astray.

Tomorrow as I sit in the energy of the Full Moon, I will reflect on where I want to actively fire (Sagittarius) up my intentions. I will let this thought (Gemini) settle into my sacred waters of feeling and intuition (Moon). I will breathe deeply and submerge myself a little more deeply (Neptune) into what I truly feel about this intention. I will make declaration in witness (Sun) of my guides and guardians of my desired goal. As inquisitive mind gives pause (Mercury) and my will to action expands, I rise from these waters of inspiration, bow at the ready , aim my arrow of intent and with the passion of one who has seen a new trail to blaze will release and shoot (Sagittarius) for the heavens. This, my Full Moon intent blessed by the Mother and affirmed by Father Sun’s golden eye.

Resources and Reflections:

Mercury Retrograde

Meet Me at the Station-Temple of Mercury
Mercury Retrograde Tomorrow- Temple of Gemini

Neptune Retrograde

Lifting the Veil-Neptune Retrograde

Related Sagittarius Posts

4th Qrt Anchoring

Temple of the Moon
Day Twelve: Networking-Waxing Moon in Sagittarius
Day Eleven: Reaching Out-Waxing Moon in Sagittarius

Next Post: June 21.2014

Temple of the Sun- Cancer

Summer Solstice

Temple of the Cosmic Spheres

Archive for the Auspicious Days Category

Living on the Edge – New Moon in Libra

Full Moon in Pisces: The Analytical Heart

Image Credit: Sadness of Gaia by Josephine Wall

What Sort Are You? New Moon in Virgo

Full Moon in Aquarius-Breath of Liquid Flame

(Photo taken as I was driving home tonight)

Uranus Retrograde: Deflecting Light

Full Moon in Capricorn- Earth Waters

Mercury Stations Direct Today! Go Slowly!

New Moon in Cancer – Arms Wide Open

Take Me Home- The Sun in Cancer

Full Moon in Sagittarius-Ready, Aim, Shoot!

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