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Back to the Middle and Around Again: Pluto Direct

Posted in Astrology, Auspicious Days, Magick, Pluto, Retrogrades, The Temple of Pluto with tags capricorn, cardinal, Pluto, Retrograde, Retrograde Planets on September 24, 2015 by themagickalpen

Pluto Stations Direct
September 25
2:55am (EDT)

Distant planet Pluto stations direct early tomorrow morning moving from its intensity of retrograde that began back in April of this year. Astrologically, this planet of mystery and depth remains in the Earthy and Cardinal sign of Capricorn. Capricorn is known as the “Sea-Goat” which speaks to its energy of navigating both the heights and depths of experience with sure-footedness and a very grounded demeanor. At times, this grounded predisposition leads to inactivity as just the precise placement of action is sought; a pursuit which is not always readily attained. So, with this caution applied to Pluto, the planet of regeneration, death, crossings and those far away and unknown experiences, you may have felt stuck in the same holding pattern of expression and the replaying of the same life’s lessons.

Astrologically, the planet Pluto rules the sign of Scorpio. Much like the ability of Capricorn’s Sea-Goat to reach deep into the emotional depths and rise to the mental heights, Scorpio is equally at home hidden in the earth(Scorpion), soaring for greater perspective (Eagle) and ascending within the Fires of Rebirth as the Phoenix. In this retrograde, Pluto’s shape-shifting is directed towards what is built as foundation (Capricorn) rather than intent upon reshaping the emotional selves. And, just as the Phoenix is the higher expression of emotion transformed into useable and regenerative desire, the goal of higher form here is one of knowledge of the truly Divine nature of our humanity held within the vessel of human form and experience.

I have always felt Pluto to be the point of return, that holds the patterns of all time. We cross the threshold of death (or release) carrying with us the lessons we have learned from experiencing that life. We enter into the unknown, hoping that we will return born anew and transformed through the gift of regeneration. We circle back, so to speak to what was our past, that has now begun our future as we stand in the present of our making. Pluto offers the gift of being able to simultaneously draw from our past, as we use the present action to weave the future that occurs seconds later.

The energy of this retrograde has been a drilling down deeply into the stores of what and who we are as manifest life forms. Think of drilling deeply into the earth, churning up soil, rock and more. Each layer being displaced in the uprising of this energy as the past story of each layer is revealed in present time. What is excavated dictates the response and reaction that will determine what the future steps will be.

Feeding into this revealing of sorts have been the counterpoints of Uranus (July 26) and Neptune (June 12) also being Retrograde. This gave the impetus of Fire (Uranus in Aries)- Water (Neptune in its Ruling sign of Pisces) and Earth (Pluto in Capricorn) weaving their magick of big and lasting change. Think the liquid flow of lava deep within the Earth’s core. I will be writing more about this over the weekend.

Now,as Pluto begins its cycle of return back to the mid-point of a present and processing state Mercury recently stationed Retrograde. This is the opportunity to slow down, unplug (from technology) and really listen to what your messenger self has to communicate about your experience of Pluto’s renewal. Take the time to carefully and thoughtfully review what contracts have been made during this Pluto retrograde at the level of Spirit and your place in the limitless flow of life, energy and intention brought into manifest form – namely you.

Take your time and assess your best vantage point to reach back to retrieve what of your past (lives) will inform this present form. Then, and only then move forward, each step with the sure-footedness of the (sea)Goat as you scale the mountain of the aspirations of your future being.

A Little Visualization:

Take some time looking at the picture I selected to accompany this post. Imagine the spinning of this top and its perfect point of balance as the cycle and flow of top and bottom move just so within the energy surrounding it. Each tip narrowing down(or up) to a thin and perfectly shaped point. If in perfect alignment it does not matter which end you begin the motion from, there are equal in their support of the center mass. This central point the place of flattening and leveling out providing enough circular surface to neither under or over tip. The top spins and simultaneously and seamlessly the energy of the top and bottom points spirals inward meeting centrally and providing the correct amount of tension for the center to spin, cutting through and creating its own vibration of energy rippling outwards, moving through time and space.

Now envision yourself as this top. The points of balance on either end, interchangeable and recyclable as past and future. Both points drawing inward to support the mass of your present experience. All simultaneously moving as one, yet distinctly apart. All shaping and reforming the energy that surrounds and is within you.

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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!

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 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

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

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

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

Full Moon in Cancer: Where Waters Flow

Posted in Esbat, Full Moon, Lunar, Magick with tags anchoring, cancer, capricorn, cardinal, earth, Esbat, esoteric writings, Full moon, pathworking, Temple of Venus, Water on January 15, 2014 by themagickalpen

Tonight the Moon shines full in the astrological sign of Cancer. This is a water sign whose ruling planet is the Moon, so the energy is intensely emotional, flowing and healing in its application. Wherever emotions have dried up, become stagnant or are blocked will be under the watchful gaze of the intuitive moon’s eye. Cancer is a Cardinal sign giving the additional support to get those waters moving smoothly and unimpeded as the Cardinal action of initializing stirs the murky depths. The potency of this Full Moon’s energy lies in the ability to connect fully with those aspects of yourself that nurture and feel most like “home” to you.

Being the first Full Moon of the year, there is great potential to reset the template we use to as our emotional response to our surroundings and those people within them. Cultivating strong and resilient emotional health is an important component in how we attract people and things that nurture and enable us to grow. A primary and natural directive of Cancer’s flow is to create stability, trust and love so that the individual may move through stormy and calm seas knowing that they are anchored and supported by friends, family and loved ones. An aspect that is often overlooked is that of self-care and self-love and the ability to “mother” yourself. Intuition or the “gut response” is developed when one allows the emotional tides to flow in accord with the natural laws that govern them, rather than setting up barriers and dams that shut down those gates of inspiration.

Venus is still retrograde and the call to reach back to heal relationships and the way in which we are governed by our emotions acts as amplification to the depth of insight to be gathered during a Cancerian Full Moon. It is this subtle balance between looking back at what has supported and nurtured; releasing what has not and moving what remains into the fullness of Mother Moon’s loving scrutiny. It is the tenderness and ruthlessness of this Mother’s love that creates the multiple streams of flow, opening her children to deeper connection one to the other; yet all deriving their strength and filter from the same Source and space of emotional strength.

When a Full Moon occurs, the Moon and Sun are in opposing astrological signs. This Full Moon occurs as the Sun is in the astrological sign of Capricorn- the Sea Goat. Capricorn is an Earth sign and its energy is focused on creating stable and structured foundations that enhance the manifest and physical experience. The dynamics of this Cancer (Water)/ Capricorn (Earth) polarity offers opportunity to hold onto that place of structure, strength and anchor (Sun in Capricorn) as we extend our intuitive (Moon) and emotional (in Cancer) nature outward. Imagine the waters of the ocean as the tides ebb and flow. As the tide comes in towards the shoreline it brings with it the bounty of whatever has been carried in with it. These shells, driftwood and sea creatures are caught in the continual flow that incrementally comes closer to the physical anchor of sand and shore. It enriches and adds to what has been previously accumulated and now acts as foundation. As the tide flows once again towards the immensity and vastness of the ocean, it carries with it some of these newly formed foundations. Particles of sand and more move out again towards the sea. This is the necessary cycle and this is the dynamics of opposites of movement working to support and enliven the other.

The Water/Earth polarity that is held within tonight’s Full Moon can aid us in bringing into manifestation a balance of self-love and love for others; emotions that are strong and intuitively guided grounded in both earth and Divine wisdom and the reinventing of the place(es) we call home and those we can turn to for support as family.

I would like to share with you a pathworking that may be used during this Full Moon’s energy as part of your personal working. It engages the elements of earth and sky, moon and your own inner sun of power.

A Pathworking of Release and Empowerment (1.)

Relax your mind and body as you sit in a comfortable position. Close your eyes and take 3 deep breaths; slowly inhaling 1..2..3 and exhaling.. 1..2..3. Allow your body to establish a gentle, even rhythm of breath; taking you to a restful, peaceful state of consciousness.

As your breathing becomes restful allow your consciousness to shift upwards; passing up through the ceiling of the room you are sitting in room and up through the roof of the building. Continue this ascent upwards and out into the moonlit sky. You are aware of the rooftops below and the velvety sky above.

As you travel upwards you become aware of a thick brown and green mist forming around you. You become aware of the smell of rich, loamy, brown earth and you feel the texture and support of soft brown dirt beneath your feet. You realize that you are standing in the midst of a lush green forest with trees forming a canopy above and the support of rich brown earth underfoot. Take a moment to take in the smells, the energy and the feel of this perfect space.

As you look towards the canopy of trees above you are aware of a glowing white orb slowing descending towards you. As this orb of pure white light descends to within arms length, you realize that this place and orb of healing light have been created to bind, contain and transform that which troubles or burdens you.

Now, in this place of perfect grounding and trust, give form to those things that you wish to release. Give form to those issues and situations which cause you concern. Give form to all that you feel is of challenge and obstacle at this time preventing you from being your highest self. With intent and will reach out, gather these forms together and push them into the center of the brilliance of the sphere in front of you binding them together into this single orb of release. Once the orb is filled with all that you wish to release, reach out and grasp it in your hands, holding it outstretched and away from you. Take a moment and take note of the feel and the weight of it. Feel the energy of all that you released to it pulsing within.

Slowly place the sphere into the softness of the earth below, pushing it deep within the ground and allowing the earth to absorb and transform that which has caused you concern. The Great Mother is taking this weight from you and offering you peace and relief. Brush the dirt from your hands and take a moment to savor the feeling of this lightness of being; of the weight of your burdens no longer a part of your being.

As you think on this, you become aware of something shining in the moonlight, and as you take a few steps forward you realize that it is the reflection of the surface of a small pond a few feet ahead of you. The water sparkles like diamonds in the moonlight and it radiates peace and serenity. You feel that if only you could touch it, and slide into the shimmering liquid that it would wash away all the remaining tension that you have.

Slowly you remove your clothes and drape them over the nearby bush. You step to the edge of the water, sit down on the grass and dangle your feet in the pond, noting that the water is surprisingly warm. The pond is not deep, so you slide in and sit with your head against the bank your head gently resting on the soft grass at water’s edge. As you close your eyes and relax into the warm water you feel all of the tension and concern slipping away; drawn deep into the cleansing waters. Take a moment and truly feel the peace and calm enveloping you. Rest in the gentle support of the healing waters and feel every cell of your being opening to renewal.

Something gently brushes against your feet and you open your eyes to see that a lily pad is floating towards you with something shiny on it. As the flower moves closer you notice a sparkling powder in the center. You take a little of the powder and wet it. It lathers and foams forming bubbles and you begin to wash your body with the foam. It tingles against your skin, energizing and revitalizing wherever it touches. Take a moment to relish the feel of this energizing foam and when you are ready slip down into the water and wash the foam from your body. As you wipe the water from your eyes you see that a goblet of fine crystal, filled with a golden liquid has been placed on the grassy edge of the pond. Curious, you take the goblet in your hand and hesitate a moment before lifting it to your lips. You only hesitate a moment because you know that you are in a place of perfect love and perfect trust and that all in this special place are gifts from the Goddess and Her world of Nature.

You slowly tilt the goblet and allow the liquid to flow down your throat and you know intuitively that this is a liqueur of inner strength and self-confidence. The nectar that all have savored who would live their truths and stay strong on their course of purpose. As the nectar fills your being, turn your thoughts to how you would wish to be a stronger person. What truths you would wish to manifest in your life. What the essence of the truth in your heart is and the ways in which you could walk your path in deeper trust and greater love.

As you finish the last drops of liquid you look around and now feel more solid, stable and more substantial and capable of handling any situation which may arise in your life. You gently place the empty goblet on the soft earth and put your clothes on; readying yourself to return to the physical world in a renewed and more loving state. You feel rested and imbued with inner peace. When you are dressed take another look at the pond and know within your heart that this place will always be waiting for you any time you have need. As this thought runs through you and you focus on the inner strength you now feel, you become aware that the pond and forest and earth are beginning to fade from sight. Everything swirling back into an olive colored mist and you feel yourself slowly descending down. You pass once again through the moonlit night sky and the tops of roofs become more visible as you descend downward. You pass easily through the outside of the building in which you began this journey and come to rest gently back in the room you started from. You become aware of your physical body resting comfortably in your room and as you gently allow your consciousness to slip back into your physical body you become more aware of the sounds, smells and energies in your space. Take a few deep breaths and when you are ready gently flutter your eyes open, returning to the here and now.

Resource:

The Enchanted Gate: Musings on the Magick of the Natural World

R. Fennelly. First Edition: February 2013

New Moon-New Year 2014!

Posted in Esbat, Lunar, Magick, New Moon, Uncategorized, Venus with tags astrology, candle magick, capricorn, cardinal, cosmic, earth, Esbat, esoteric writings, fixed modality, Full moon, Magick, new moon, Saturn on January 1, 2014 by themagickalpen

January 1.2014 New Moon in Capricorn 6:14 a.m.

We kick off the New Year with the Moon New in the astrological sign of Capricorn- the Sea Goat. Capricorn is of the element Earth which gives its energy one of foundation, strength and the ability to manifest. It is a Cardinal sign meaning that its energy is one of initializing and acting as the first outpouring for what will be gathered into form as it flows into the Fixed sign of Aquarius on Thursday afternoon.

This timing offers a triple bolstering of new and vibrant energy to draw from. The first day of a New Year boasting a New Moon phase in a Cardinal (Beginnings) astrological sign. We are also still in the hold of a Venus Retrograde so, the opportunity to connect the re-balancing of heart (Venus) and weave that energy into the new paths available with a New Moon in an Earth sign are all supportive towards plummeting the depths (Capricorn- Sea) and sure-footedly scaling the heights (Capricorn-Goat) to lay the ground work for lasting and durable change.

Capricorn’s planetary ruler is Saturn, so structure, order and timeliness are keywords for accessing the sea-goat’s energy. Self-discipline creates the boundaries that can fertilize and inseminate the fertile ground of our manifest form. The aspect of determination in achieving the goal desired and the appropriate pacing of energy, focus and adequate time for expansion and contraction of that focus establish a rhythm and orderliness that ensures an outcome. Notice that I did not say positive, as the determination of whether the outcome is positive or detrimental is all in how discipline is applied and the correct timing for the planting of the seeds. A detriment of Capricorn is that the individual can get so caught up in the process; creating barriers and faulty structures that are self-perpetuated that what should be glorious success withers into frustrated repetition. This is where Saturn as the Gatekeeper of time exerts his will in stirring up the pot so it can move freely and of its own accord if the lessons are heeded.

A New Moon Working in Capricorn*:

Workings may include: career- ambition-organization- stabilizing- structuring

My intent for this New Moon (New Year) is one of building a solid and heart-centered foundation for personal growth this upcoming year.

I will light a white candle to illuminate my mind and thoughts as I reach deeply into the stores of memory. I will sit quietly and reflect on what I have carried forward from this past year. My achievements, my goals and those things that I did not quite hit the mark in the way I had hoped.

I will light a black candle as the fertile space of incubation and setting held within the mask of the New Moon’s shadow of veiling. I will draw from each of these memories the seeds of new planting to begin the fertile ground for this year. I will breathe my Intent and Will into this candle and these seeds of aspiration. I envision it as lit from within ready to shine fully and brightly at the next Full Moon.

So Mote it Be!

* A side note.

In astrology, each of the zodiacal signs rules a specific house (1-12) when placed in order around the flat wheel. Capricorn sits as ruler at the place of the Midheaven in the 10th House of the flat astrological wheel (This is the wheel that follows the order of the Zodiac from Aries in the 1st House counterclockwise around to Pisces in the 12th House and is not associated with anyone’s birth). The Midheaven is the point in the natal astrological chart where “you shine”. It is the space where recognition for achievement and success are held as potential. Capricorn carries this as latent energy wherever it shows up.

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The Temple of Venus-Stop! In the Name of Love!

Posted in The Temple of Venus, Uncategorized, Venus with tags astrology, capricorn, cardinal, celestial, cosmic, esoteric writings, fixed modality, Libra, Taurus on December 23, 2013 by themagickalpen

Venus began her cycle of Retrograde on Saturday the 21st at 4:53pm (EST). This is was also the day of the Winter Solstice and the longest night of the year to herald in the waxing of the Light from here forward until the Summer Solstice. Venus stations direct on January 31.2014 allowing plenty of time for her energy to be felt and acted upon. Although a Venus Retrograde does not take center stage in the same way that a Mercury retrograde does, the areas ruled by Venus gain in intensity and the call for reaching back is at hand. Primarily this will be in the areas of relationships and re-connection or disconnection through reevaluation.

Venus stationed in the astrological Earth sign of Capricorn which gives breadth and scope to the areas she shines her light brightest upon. If we take into consideration what we know about Venus so far and the elements of strength (Taurus) and refinement towards balance (Libra) we can use these attributes to bolster whatever areas of disruption and change that Venus reaches out towards. Her energy is feminine in nature and with that is a depth of intensity and introspection that brings great insights to the foreground regarding those people and things in our lives to whom we have given our hearts and our trust.

* See The Personal Note at the end of this post!

A Venus retrograde often brings the opportunity to reconnect with those who had in the past been part of our lives and enables us to reevaluate what they brought to nourish our sensibilities in the first place. This allows space to reassess their current value in potentially reintroducing their energy into our lives now.

Every 18 months or so a Venus retrograde will occur and will last approximately six – seven weeks. Astronomically, Venus us the brightest light in the heavens taking third place only to the Sun and the Moon. It is also the planet which is easiest to see with the naked eye and has an orbital path that varies very little (by approx. 2-4 degrees) in the movement along of its eliptical path. Let’s begin by taking a look at the scientific definition of a retrograde.

Astronomy 101: What is a Retrograde Motion?

An animation showing the retrograde motion of Mars in summer of 2003.
Credit: Eugene Alvin Villar

“Typically, the planets shift slightly eastward from night-to-night, drifting slowly against the backdrop of stars. From time to time, however, they change direction. For a few months, they’ll head west before turning back around and resuming their easterly course. This is “retrograde motion”. Though it baffled ancient astronomers, we know now that retrograde planets are an illusion caused by the motion of Earth.” Astronomer: Christopher Crokett (1.)

The Stations of Activity and the Zodiac

Astrologically, when a planet changes direction in its normal path of progression through the zodiac, this is called a “station”. The planet’s progress slows down in is orbit until it appears to pause in its motion giving the appearance of moving backwards. The Retrograde Station occurs when the planet begins this slowing down and seeming movement backwards. The Direct Station occurs when the forward motion of the planet begins again. Whatever astrological sign the planet retrogrades in gives added emphasis and more intensity to how the planet expresses its own energy now given a full and prolonged dose of the sign’s own specificities. These highly potent effects can be building or waning (depending on which end of the station you find yourself) for days prior or after. Much like, the concentrated effort needed in slowing down to come to a traffic light, pausing, and then having to carefully and incrementally apply enough gas to reach your top speed again.

Stop!

Hedonistic Pleasures and the Pursuit of Happiness

In previous posts I’ve talked about the dynamics of Venus and the natural strivings towards achieving beauty and pleasure from relationships and every facet of physical life and expression. Looking at this retrograde energy from the perspective of hedonistic philosophy, the “no holds barred” intent becomes prime directive. It is often from this place of pursuing the delights of sensorial gratification that the aspiration and pursuit of happiness is hoped to be found. For many, enthusiasm is replaced by disillusionment and boredom takes hold in the space of what is not truly satisfying at all levels. The happiness quotient dwindles and new ways of reviving that happiness have to be continually explored. This is the energy of Venus in full expression of her beguiling and seductive nature. The vacillation between boredom and excitement is just the tipping of the scales in the effort to achieve a place of balance where pleasure and happiness are co-creators of forming the life we wish to have. Retrograding Venus stirs the pot and forces a closer look at what gives us true joy and where we find balanced gratification. This exploration provides the new foundations that become the bar of measure and value of what fulfills until the next space of scrutiny.

Revamp and Refine Relationships

Venusian energy is one that allows deeper insight into the basic nature of the emotions and the foundations that we structure them upon. When Venus retrogrades this is the prime time to take a look at those emotional foundations and see if they have been built upon faulty ground. The house may have been constructed in accord with the owner’s specifications, but shifting ground will ever so slightly begin to erode away what keeps it in balance. This is the action of Venus retrograding. Shifting emotions and the addition and release of those relationships that we have created as our space of home and comfort may take on decidedly different functions and begin to shift ever so slightly either in the direction of ultimate release or a deepening of commitment. The results may be a complete overhaul and revamping of all our relationships so that the new structure becomes a different type of architectural support, complete with new venue and supportive resources.

Focus On The Self; So You Can Give Freely To The Other

The same energy of intense evaluation regarding emotions and things of the heart that guides a Venus retrograde is the foundational energy we can use to redefine our definition of the love we offer ourselves. If we cannot see ourselves as being loved and loveable, we can never truly feel the balance and anchoring of sharing our love completely and fully with others. The Venus retrograde provides the space to reinvent ourselves, the way in which we see ourselves and ultimately how we use this persona in our interactions with others. Shifting this focus of unconditional love, insight, understanding and compassion towards our own development causes a reinvention of who and what we value within our own being. As we refine these definitions of who we are we can learn to fall in love with that person we have become. We can see the beauty in that transformation and appreciate the refinement that has occurred from this balanced and cohesive method of self-introspection.

In the Name of Love!

Here’s another thought! The Sun moved into the astrological sign of Capricorn on the 21st and the Winter Solstice occurred on this date as well. Capricorn is another Earth astrological sign of the Zodiac. This is the Earth of Cardinal modality; the initial catalyst and flow that move towards stability. This is the first layer of soil that with time and weathering becomes the fertile mound. Venus rules the Earth sign of Taurus; a Fixed sign (re-read last week’s post about astrological Venus) that takes the initial outpouring of the Cardinal energy and gathers it to itself to provide structure and container for what has flowed into it. This is the warm mound of fertile soil that is the incubator that produces greenery.

So, using this information, consider the potential held with the added bolster of Sun in Earthy Capricorn as Venus, ruler of Fixed Earth Taurus stations retrograde (reaches backwards). The Sun offers the electromagnetic power of strength, renewal and life giving properties. The Sun is the electrical impulse that flows through the all of the foundations we have created. In this case, the foundations are of the Earth (Capricorn/Taurus) or manifest realm. Those things and people that we concretely wish to attract to our lives.

With Venus (or heart) stationing its outpouring towards what we have established as our foundation of compassion and interaction occurring as the Sun (life force) lights the way for the manifestation of stability and strength (Earth), there is great opportunity to shine in the brilliance of Venus’ light.

*A Personal Note:

This posting was late as the result of a personal emergency that occurred. On Thursday, I took my mother to the Emergency Room thinking that her escalated confusion and discomfort in walking was the result of a UTI. She did have an infection, but what we didn’t know was that she also had bleeds on both sides of her brain. A CAT scan revealed this additional news. The next 48-hrs. forced me to face the mortality of my mother, the relationship we had and the overwhelming feelings of guilt and remorse that go hand in hand with the thought of suddenly losing a parent. Emotions rose to overflowing and I thought I couldn’t stop crying. I thought about all the experiences, negative and positive I have had with my mother and each one brought me to a place of thinking long and hard about how I would change some of the future interactions. She has had brain surgery and is doing well, but we are still not out of the woods. Of interest is the fact that my natal Venus is in the astrological sign of Pisces and my Mother’s natal Sun sign is Pisces. I can’t help but think that this was an opportunity to look back and readjust some of the feelings I’ve held about my Mother and refine the way our relationship flows moving forward.

Resources:

1. Earth Sky Blog by Christopher Crokett

Next Week:
We’ll conclude our time in the Temple with information about Venus and Planetary Magick.

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Day Fourteen: Riding the Waves

Posted in Esbat, Lunar, Magick, Moon Tide, The Temple of the Moon with tags anchoring, aquarius, astrology, capricorn, cardinal, celestial, cosmic, Esbat, esoteric writings, Leo, Lunar, Magick, ritual, void of course on July 21, 2013 by themagickalpen

July 21

Waxing Full in Capricorn

Void of Course 11:53am

Today marks the holding point before the incoming energies of Aquarius and the fullness of Lady Moon. It feels as though these energies are primed and ready to burst forth. It reminds me of how the overwhelming pressure of water on a dam at times proves too much; allowing the waters to break through flowing freely, strongly and of their own accord.

The moon spent most of the morning hours in Capricorn, and I tried to fully embrace the proverbial scaling of the heights and reaching into the depths that typifies Capricorn. After working my Full Moon Ritual last night and calling on the energies of Cardinal Earth to anchor this work, I bolstered that goal this morning with a short meditation envisioning myself fully grounded and aligned with all parts of myself functioning like the buoy in the midst of a stormy sea. It rises and crests remaining intact despite the chaos and disruption surrounding.

Ironically, today is Sunday so I am turning my attention towards the tasks to be accomplished for the week, the reaching out that is required and the social collaboration that is needed. All of this on the evening before the Moon reaches its fullness in the sign of Aquarius-the global citizen with foci of attention on the greater humanity.

With most of the day having been spent with the moon void and transiting from one sign to the other, I am feeling as though today is the last day to ride the waves of Cancer’s crests. This void is the neutrality before entering its new sign. The Sun is positioning to leave the sign of Cancer tomorrow and will enter the astrological energy of Leo for whom it is the ruling planet. So, I will gather all the skill I have honed attuning to the strength of the Sun’s light shining fully in the intuitive mysteries of the lunarscape of Cancer and see where my point of balance has shifted so I may continue the movement forward with each rising of the emotional waters as this journey continues.

Day 13: Rise to the Occasion

Posted in Esbat, Lunar, Magick, Moon Tide, The Temple of the Moon with tags anchoring, astrology, candle magick, capricorn, cardinal, celestial, cosmic, esoteric writings, Lunar, Magick, void of course on July 20, 2013 by themagickalpen

July 20

Waxing Moon in Capricorn

Sun in Cancer

The morning saw the moon in its void state, so integration and holding steady are the goals. I relaxed into the flow and the morning was quiet and peaceful in contrast to the edginess I felt the past two days.

The Moon transitioned into the astrological sign of Capricorn at 2:39pm. Capricorn is a Cardinal sign (first outpouring) and of the element of Earth. There is the scope of expanse that is typical of Capricorn; often considered the Seagoat- who can traverse the earthy spaces and depths of the oceans and has the sure footed ability to navigate to the heights of the tallest mountain. Earth relates to the physical and mundane realms and Capricorn’s ruling planet of Saturn is the great keeper of time and master regulator. Pulling all of these energies together lends itself to having stability as the starter for your efforts, but beware of inertia and over calculating every action.

Tonight I did the Full Moon. My intentions were that of anchoring the work that has been accomplished with this project in the fullness of its expression. Using the energy of Capricorn held the intent of anchoring it in the physical with option of expansion and being held in a space that is time no time- eternal and structured. Using this Cardinal energy will carry forward the seeds that have been planted towards deeper connection to my emotions and intuitive nature as the Moon waxes full in Aquarius on Monday. In natural order of the astrological wheel, the flow of movement and maturation moves from burgeoning earth (physical) towards mind that is informed by all the lessons that have been brought forward through the other signs of the zodiac.

Lens of Sight

Matter of continuum
Depth and breath
Of thin air and
One step taken
Carefully- slowly in pace.

Diving deep to feel the
Sting of new beginnings
Structure and form
Taking shape as
Pause recoils.

The Master waits at the
Gate and the Adept
Reaches out gingerly
The hand withdraws.

And the steepness of drop
Reverberates at the base
Of darkened well
Gold coins falling as leaves
Carried within the
Space of airy breath.

Once again, the ascent begins anew
The space of time claiming
The continuum of earthy

One step taken
Carefully
Slowly
In
Pace.

Full Moon Ritual of Anchoring

Posted in Esbat, Lunar, Magick, Moon Tide, The Temple of the Moon with tags anchoring, astrology, candle magick, capricorn, celestial, cosmic, Esbat, esoteric writings, Full moon, goldstone, ritual on July 19, 2013 by themagickalpen

July 20

Waxing Moon in Capricorn at 2:39pm

We are entering the 3 days prior to the Full Moon on Monday. Saturday the Moon transits into Capricorn before going void on Sunday morning. So, I am going to do the working of the Full Moon phase of Ritual of Dedication on Saturday evening (before the void) and bolster with the Aquarian energies on the actual day of the Full Moon. I will post the plans for this later this evening so you all will have for tomorrow. No need for additional supplies beyond what we started with for the New Moon dedication.

This marks phase two of the Ritual of Dedication begun at the start of this journey. Try to perform this ritual between the hours of 2:39p.m. today and before the moon goes void on Sunday at 11:53am.

Full Moon Ritual of Anchoring

You will need:

1/Silver (or Black) Candle (New Moon)

1/White Candle (Full Moon)

1/Black Candle (Dark Moon)

Black and white altar cloths

Journal and Pen to be dedicated to record your experiences. Be sure to choose a journal you will love to use and/or decorate it in any way that is representative of your intention on this journey.

Set up your altar space with the white cloth on top of black. This represents the Full Moon phase and the waxing of its light coming to peak. The candles should be arranged in triangular shape with the White candle at center point, Silver candle as left base and Black candle on right side forming the base. The Silver candle on the left represents the New Moon phase (1st Quarter Waxing), the White – the Full Moon and the Black candle on the left- the Dark Moon (Last Quarter Waning).

Your journal and pen can be placed in front of the triangular candle formation.

Establish sacred space in whatever way is in keeping with your path.

Invoke the assistance of whatever Deity, guides or patrons you work with to inform and enliven this journey.

Standing in front of your altar begin by lighting the Silver candle. As you light this candle offer up words stating your intention of gratitude for all that has brought you to this place on the journey as you deepen your connection to the lunar energies and the mysteries of your lunar nature.

Move to stand in front of the White candle. As you light this candle offer up words stating your intention of anchoring and standing fully in the Light of the Moon’s reflection and the blessings of the work done.

Envision the orb of the blessed Moon full and shining brightly Open and allow yourself to connect deeply to the image of the waters of moon’s flow gently holding you as you are carried with the ebb and flow of the tides. Envision the Moon in her full orb, glowing brilliantly and welcoming you to join in her bounty. Breathe deeply drawing in this fullness and filling yourself with the knowledge that you have come a great way in refining and experiencing the flow of emotions within your own being. Soften your gaze and draw the stream of light that issues from Her flame into the center core of your being. Breathe into it, expanding its intensity and lengthening the depths of its connection. Envision this as the continual stream of informed connection that will be the place of deeper gnosis of the Moon and Her mysteries. Take a deep breath in and allow this energy to move through you; flowing like water, reaching every point of your being. Exhale long and slowly sending that energy back into the circuit that is forming between you and the energy you have called forth to permeate this candle. Breathe in this manner of receipt and release, ebb and flow for as long as you feel is needed; ending with a long exhale.

Sharpen your gaze and return back to the clarity of focus looking at the Silver candle of the New Moon. Once again soften your gaze and see the lines of connection between the Silver and White candles as they move towards your center and forming a triangle of enlivened space. Breathe into this connection of cycle of newness, now having matured and moved to a place of full peak. Breathe deeply and fully feeling the expansion and new information received from this journey.

Shift your focus to all three of the candles and as you move your gaze from one to the other offer up words of intent:

Monday, at the time of the Full Moon, the energies I have called forth in their fullness and anchored and strengthened in the bounty of Lady Moon’s grace will continue to flow forth and my opening to the energies of the moon in all of her phases will move in accord with HER cycles. So Mote It Be!!

Breathe deeply into these words (or those of your own) and see them as being held in witness by the guides, deity or others you called into to assist this rite.

Offer up thanks to those you invoked to join in this ritual, and bid them hail and farewell. Ground and release your sacred space, again, in whatever way is in keeping with your path. And, lastly, snuff out the flame of the New and Full Moon candles. I have purposefully had you do this after the release of sacred space as symbolic act of carrying these energies back into the mundane world of expression to be used and accessed on all levels of being.

You will light these two candles each night connecting to their combined energies and adding to these from your own energetic experiences. Continue to do this up to the eve of the Dark Moon (another ritual and dedication and lighting of the Black candle) as you write your impressions of the day.

Blessings on your journey as we continue to walk this road together!

Temple of the Cosmic Spheres

Archive for capricorn

Back to the Middle and Around Again: Pluto Direct

Full Moon in Aquarius-Breath of Liquid Flame

(Photo taken as I was driving home tonight)

Full Moon in Capricorn- Earth Waters

Full Moon in Cancer: Where Waters Flow

New Moon-New Year 2014!

The Temple of Venus-Stop! In the Name of Love!

Day Fourteen: Riding the Waves

Day 13: Rise to the Occasion

Full Moon Ritual of Anchoring

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