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Full Moon in Gemini- Your Call Cannot Be Connected As Dialed…..

Posted in Esbat, Full Moon, Gemini, Jupiter, Lunar, Magick, Sagittarius, The Temple of Mercury, The Temple of the Sun with tags Air, communication, fire, Full moon, gemini, mutable, Sagittarius on December 5, 2014 by themagickalpen

Full Moon in Gemini
December 6.2014
7:27am (EST)

Sun in Sagittarius

The Moon waxes Full tomorrow morning at 7:27am (EST) in the astrological sign of Gemini (Mutable Air). 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. In this lunation that thought is best expressed as the “party line” or shared phone line where two conversations are vying for attention at once. Each is communicating in their own unique style, but the bits and pieces of detail are lost in the gaps between who is listening to who. The strength of Solar energy is mid-point in dynamic Sagittarius; expansive in its outreach and continually seeking new trails to blaze. Now, the cooling waters of Mother Moon are ready to talk it up and stimulate the mind as She finds her voice in communicative Gemini.

The quality of Mutable Air as catalyst in stirring up the emotional seas and the Fires of expansive Sagittarius seeking to spread out and claim their own path of networking and communication can produce a highly emotive and combustible effect. Whenever Mind comes on line, particularly the Gemini mind that can change direction as easily as a chameleon adapts to its surrounding’s color we have a potential for emotions being expressed that were fleeting and pertinent in the moment but dissipate as soon as rationale enters the picture. Add to this the Solar expression of Sagittarius, that seeks and seeks and seeks to find suitable burning ground and you have the dynamics for kindling sparks of idea, fueled by a desirous heart that may overextend and burn out before any real progress is made. Using the analogy of a phone call, imagine several lines of connection that get tangled in the transmission causing miscommunication to ensue with neither party reaching the intended recipient.

Please Hang Up and Try Again…..

The solution lies in the effort of trying. For each and every bright area that courses through the night sky of fully lit waters, just breathe and allow it to move of its own accord and land where it may. Although intent is the key ingredient in successful magickal work, so is knowing when to simply allow the desires to flow and let them blaze their own paths of connection. This also means standing firmly in a place of trust, that all will be communicated in the way that it should.

From a perspective of elemental correlate, we have the opposition of Sun in Sagittarius or Fire of Fire and Moon in Gemini- Air of Water. Water is the natural opponent of Fire as it extinguishes and heals what has been burnt. Air both feeds and extinguishes Fire; one setting the blaze higher and the other by its blustery gust creates lights out. So how do we use this info? My favorite analogy and one that I apply frequently to this particular astrological set-up is setting an exposed wire (Fire) in a pan of water (Water) and Electricity (Air and communication) sparks and sputters creating light.

This is an excellent Full Moon configuration for creating new pathways of thought pattern and using the emotional to guide the current of electrified charge that runs through it. Brainstorming and then passing these ideas through the filter of how they “feel” and what desires to bring them to life (Light) get fired up can go a long way towards reaching out a little further beyond what your normal selective process would be.

So plug in, and let those calls flow from mind to heart. Be receptive to what is communicated and then continue to leave that line open as you move through the waning of the Moon. What is viable and a stable and reliable connection will establish itself as that which is frequently called for insight and clarity. You may get a few busy signals as you tap into the greater network of other’s similar seekings, but keep the line open and try again. With persistence you will soon have all of the circuit board lit up, effectively networking and beginning new ways of dialing in.

Image: Switchboard Operator. Yes this was how phone calls were relayed way back when!

Resources and Reflections

Gemini in Related Posts:

Temple of the Sun: Gemini
The Temple of Mercury
New Moon in Gemini:Brainstorming
Waxing Moon in Gemini:Talking Waters

The Temple of the Moon:
Day Twenty-Five: The Epiphany of Silence: Waning Moon in Gemini
Day Twenty-Four: Talk It Up: Waning Moon in Gemini

Bonus Post
December 8.2014
Jupiter Retrograde

Next Post

A Tree of Fiber-Optics

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

Let Me Break It Down – The Sun in Virgo

Posted in Mercury, The Temple of the Sun with tags astrology, cosmic, esoteric writings, Lunar, mutable, Temple of Mercury, Temple of the Sun, Virgo on August 23, 2014 by themagickalpen

Sun in Virgo
8.23.2014
12:46 am (EDT)

Planetary Ruler: Mercury

Let Me Break it Down

Describe to me again
In detail what it is
That you want me to do.
If you can give me
Sufficient information
I can draw a finely
Tuned conclusion.

But, if you omit the
Fine points I will be
Forced to search until I
Have the information I need.

I can be impetuous at times.
And, occasionally I appear to be
The neophyte who is thought
To not have nearly enough experience.

These are the qualities that allow
Me to seek and unravel the deepest
Of mysteries. I see with the
Eyes of one who has not been
Jaded and corrupted by
Pre-conceived assumptions.

My attention to detail
Is rivaled by none
And my organizational skills
Are something that many
Wish they could master.

I am shrewd and analytical
And will stand strong if
My analytical mind
Is questioned.

Some may see me as
Inert and caught up in the web
Of over-analysis and detail
Others would praise my
Orderly and inquisitive nature.

So, next you have need
Of one whose hand
Moves with meticulous grace
Seek me out and let me
Break it down for you.

The Sun transited into the astrological sign of Virgo just 46 minutes past midnight this morning. This speaks volumes about the nature of Virgo and its analytical qualities. Barely able to contain itself and raring to go, Virgo’s energies are continually seeking to make sense of and sort through anything that comes its way.

The astrological sign of Virgo is one of the Element of Earth and the Mutable Modality. Its planetary ruler is Mercury, whose greater mystery is held in its transformative powers through the act of communication and inter-connectivity. The natural energy of the Sun, that of shedding great light on whatever is in its spectrum, is now amped up to become the spotlight that shines fully on what needs to be communicated about what deeper information is revealed when one probes and analyzes each aspect of that thing in a methodical way stripping away any falsehood.

This solar month has maximum potential for re-defining the foundations that have been set in place in your mundane and physical world. Virgo brings this energy to the place of being able to fine tune what we imagined to be so, and do it in the fullness of the Sun’s light and strength. Any conclusions we come to will have stood the test of methodical process.

The caution is one of not allowing this detailed process of sorting and sifting to allow inertia to set in. All of the Earth signs hold the potential for either being flexible and expansive in creating supportive foundations or burying the seeker under the weight of what wishes to be fertile in growth and continually moving. Actively tapping into the bolster of Mercury, as its Planetary ruler, insures that the findings of result at each step of the way will be shared and receive the benefit of more input that will inform the process anew.

The Element of Earth

The energy of Earth is that of the Physical and manifest world. We saw this energy expressed in the astrological sign of Taurus early in our Solar Year. Taurus was the expression of manifest form and concrete reality to insure that stable foundations are laid and guarded. Virgo takes this fertile ground of foundation and pulls from it those weeds that will deter growth and prepares it for receipt of viable seed. The downside to this type of weeding is the tendency, if not kept in check to also disrupt the naturally occurring order of viable matter and rip it from its roots.

A Mutable Modality

The energy of the Mutable signs is one of expansiveness and flexibility that is now able to move with assurance having had the active and dynamic will of the Fixed (Leo) energy that preceded it. This is the energy that signifies the end of the cycle of movement as well as the preparation for being acted upon again when it revisits the Cardinal Modality anew (Libra) as balance and refinement of what has been processed occurs. Virgo as a sign of the Mutable Modality expresses itself as it analyzes and methodically pores through everything that comes into its purview.

Flow moves directed
In purpose towards
What will tear it apart
Seeking out its heart of truth.

Its magick of repurposing
Is applied to what next
It encounters.

Allow the strength of earth
The foundation that manifests
All that moves through the
Filter of its delicate embrace.

Feel the increase in gain
From pillars built strong
Enabled by the delicate
Hand that seeks balance.

Stand strong in the manifest
Vessel of this potential
The physical container that
Holds the wisdom of all
That has been known.

Stand strong in the manifest
Vessel that will expand as
All is broken down and
Brought to the space of
Its true worth as endings
Flow into the manifest reality
Of tempered and finely honed
Beginnings.

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 Pisces tells its own unique story of the astrological wheel. Virgo is the sixth sign of the Zodiac. Numerologically, the number SIX (6) relates to harmonious action and synthesis. It is the higher amplification of the triad of the number 3 (the creative product of the duality of collaboration). Being of a Mutable Modality, the quality of Virgo is that of flexible expansion. It is this flexibility that offers up the potential for beginnings and endings; both of which require harmonious action to succeed. Virgo requires this stable base in order to maintain the necessary flexibility to take something apart, explore all of its components and then reassemble it in a more productive way.

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). Now enlivened by the desire to “know”, the healing and nurturing (Cancer- Water) of what no longer serves this goal is brought front and center into the Light of Day (Leo-Fire) to be strengthened as it is readied for the detailed analysis of Virgo (Earth) that seeks to create a new form for its manifestation.

Mercury is the Ruling Planet of both Gemini and Virgo and is the Lord of communication in all of its light of day. Speech, art, music, writing, etc. all are held within the energy of Mercury. These are the tools that Virgo uses to drill down to the core of what its place of focus is turned upon. Within the astrological sign of Airy (Mental) Gemini, Mercury was most at home basking in the natural speed of mind and the duality of being able to change course at a moment notice. Within the energy of Virgo, this style of informing is brought down from the atmosphere and aethers (Mind) and rooted in the physicality of earthly foundation (Virgo). This is also the point of balance where what we think can be in support of the concrete actions we take, the goals of physical expression we choose for ourselves and the impact we have on those we interact with.

Read more about the dynamics of Mercury in:

The Temple of Mercury
What’s Up?

At this time of the year in the Northern hemisphere, we see the potency of Virgo expressed as the sorting process as we approach the Second of three harvests. The weather hovers at the precipice of entering the chill of winter’s months and the last bursts of late Summer’s heat. The vibrancy of the Sun and flexibility of Virgo’s energy supports the sifting through of what stores of harvest we will bring into our homes and lives.

In the Southern Hemisphere the emphasis is the reversed as all continue in their preparation for the waxing of the Sun’s light. The equinox is close at hand and with it the visual delights of Spring and all that is promised by new growth. Virgo’s energy here is expressed as the weeding process occurs to clear away what would crowd out the beautiful blooms and fertile growth.
Both are states of earthy energy requiring the harmony and balance of choice and discernment. Both require foundational strength that holds the responsibility for whatever outcome may be. The goal is one of stimulation at the level of the physical and concrete worlds of existence. This state paves the way for the next phase of further refinement as the Sun transits next into the Cardinal sign of Libra.

Let Me Break It Down:

This solar month is one bursting with communication. This is typically the month for graduations, weddings, vacations and other venues that require communication, planning and a sharing of ideas.
In the chronology of the Zodiac, this is the space of time to gather all that you have learned from Leo’s expression of power and stand ready to dig (no Earth pun intended!) deeper into that place of power held within as we embark on a journey of self-understanding. This is the energy of the stabilized young adult who has gone through the trials and errors of false pride and come to a space of synthesis and security in maturing into the responsibilities of adulthood and all that it entails to successfully navigate the physical world.

The inquisitive mind of the pre-teen moves at a pace that is non-stop. This is the phase of the “I want to be” and “when I grow up, I can do this or that”. Everything is within the realms of possibility and holds no limitations to what is imagined. This was the companion expression of Mercury’s energy that we experienced in the astrological sign of exuberant Gemini. The inquisitive mind has returned; now poised with questions that will stimulate deeper exploration of anything queried and ripen and mature the querent through accumulated experience.

And, so in the spirit of analytical Virgo as 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 the first time you gave resolution to a problem that underscored your ability to weed through all that was not viable; extract precisely what was relevant and take responsibility for the work you’d done in coming to a mature and wizened solution.

As you read through the invocation, think about what each line of reference is trying to communicate and what these words mean to you at every level of your being. What keys to the greater knowledge of RA’s power is hidden within the words put to paper. This is the power of analytical communication and its ability to stimulate deeper inquiry. Use this gift wisely this solar month as we invoke the Solar month in Virgo and awaken those fires of RA to enliven each foundation you choose to re-form.

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: Monday, August 25th
What Sort Are You? – New Moon in Virgo

The Magick of Leo

Posted in Esbat, Lunar, Magick, Solar, The Temple of the Sun with tags astrology, celestial, cosmic, Esbat, esoteric writings, fire, fixed modality, Leo, Lunar, mutable, Temple of the Sun on August 18, 2014 by themagickalpen

The Magick of Leo is based in the realms of will and creation of an outcome that is oriented to action and attracting what is desired. Whatever we apply Leonine energy towards is going to receive the advantage of strengthening and receiving the bolster of illuminated interest. You will draw attention and the choice lies in what type of attention you wish it to be. Its strength lay in being able to gather to itself what is most desired; its detriment is that what it gathers may not be in the best interest of all concerned if not carefully selected.

Remaining in this pattern of attracting what does not serve well can overload the confidence in the dynamic appeal of what is being exerted and effort is replaced by apathy assuming that every sought after goal will be achieved just because. Despite this any workings that require the extra boost of magnetic attraction and brilliance of spotlight on the results are well suited to Leo’s application.

Leo works directly on our will and the courage we exhibit as we express ourselves and make our presence known, so workings that require a huge boost of energy and confidence are best served by using Leo’s exhilarating dynamics as the Moon Waxes or continually during the Solar Month of Leo. Conversely, using Leo’s magick during a Waning phase (Lunar or Solar Month) can serve to shine a light on those things that hold us captive in self-doubt and need an extra dose of renewal and enlivening.

The Brilliant Sun

Image credit: Brilliant Sun, Alternative Jazz Band

Leo begins the second cycle of quadrant of Elements in progression around the zodiacal wheel. This is the second of the Fire astrological signs and in the order of progression, Leo is the full blaze that has taken hold that was ignited in Aries as the first striking of the fiery match. The caution here is being mindful that this blaze remains shining brilliantly and is able to be controlled and contained in a productive way. If this state is achieved than the blaze that grows brighter and brighter as it draws to itself the necessary fueling of Air and desire has no equal other than the Sun itself.

And, what of this physical Sun that we compare the Leonine quality to? This is the overt attribution and image associated but another and potentially more powerful expression of Leo’s light is what is held in the darkness. Think of the stealth of the Lion prowling under cover of brush and night seeking the suitable prey that will sustain the pride. From this darkness a beast of power, courage and strength springs forth and in a flash of bared teeth and flicking claw, the prey is taken and life will survive.

This is the energy of Leo as the Sun sets and the Midnight Sun that is hidden from view (as the Northern Hemisphere turns away from the blaze) still shines in brilliance on the opposing side of the world. This is the energy that can be called upon, the inner sun that burns brightly although hidden and obscured in the darkness. It is from this space that the true magick of Leo is revealed and the transformative quality that emerges sustains and fuels our will to action.

It’s Too Bright

In keeping with these thoughts, Leo can be used effectively in the magick of healing. We normally associate the Water signs with healing qualities; but Fire penetrates deeply and as it removes it cauterizes what it has inflicted its fires upon. Workings that are focused on strengthening the physical body, dispelling weakness and lethargy and stimulating the healing process of wounds, abrasions, etc.. are well suited to Leo’s energy.

If we engage our heart center in the process as intuitive guide, this healing process is one that works much like Reiki, acupuncture and energetic healing modalities. Their goal, being one of stimulating the appropriate and productive flow of chi or prana;which moves like electrical impulses throughout the meridians of the body. Leo’s energy could also act a support for those battling fatigue. Drawing these fiery and electromagnetic energies into our core center and circulating them is much the same as sitting in the Sun, breathing in its healing energies and returning to our tasks renewed and refreshed.

Solar Month Magick

Enhances the dynamics of active will and how we present ourselves in the greater world:

Leo as the Fifth sign of the Solar Year concerns itself with action and the transformative effects that action has. The Solar Month of Leo is an excellent time to begin the process of polishing off the outer projection of who you are as you bolster the courage to step fully into that image you are projecting.

The energy of this Solar month of Leo next flows into the Earth of Virgo and the call to restructure, organize and analyze what has come before. In order to stand the test of this type of scrutiny, you must be confident and secure in who you are, your place in the world and more importantly, the effect you have on others. This is the work of Leo, preparing and shoring up the self so that new foundations can be built from what is truly viable and worth holding on to.

The Leonine approach can be used for short-term projects, but is most effective for long-term workings. A goal, such as a working to re-form and strengthen your gifts and natural qualities that bring attention to the productive nature of your work benefit from beginning its cycle during the Solar Month of Leo.

Similar to the New, Full and Waning cycles of the Lunar Month, beginning the working in the Solar Month of Leo would be the first phase of courageously facing the image that is reflected back to you as you step into the fullness of the light. This may take the form of sitting with a mirror in meditative practice and calling forth the image that you project to the world. You would repeat this practice several times during the month, each time making note of how that image may change and what new attributes and emotions are revealed in the process. As you move through the Solar month you will begin to see more and more of the true you.

Using the cycle of Fire and those astrological signs of that element the next point of bolstering the energy would be during Sagittarius. The Solar Month of Sagittarius stands as the expansive phase of will-filled (Fire) energy, and signals the readiness to reach out and gather more information about what effects your energy has in the greater world. In this state of outreach, you can fuel the flame of stepping into the power of who you are. Here, there is opportunity to stretch in the brilliance of who you are becoming.

The catalytic energy of Aries (the last of this cycle of Fire signs) would serve as the point of catalyzing what has been flexibly created and allow the rebirthing of a transformed image of yourself. These are the incremental steps of progressively evolving and dynamically changing in accord with the brightest version of your own inner flame of light.

Lunar Magick: Radiant Waters

Engages the will to action expressed through the waters that hold the spark of flame that flows through the creative process:

Use of Lunar energy in the astrological sign of Leo provides the energetic principle of electrical discharge. Imagine an exposed wire placed in a pan of water. A flash of electricity and burst of Light are the products of this interaction. Leo provides the opportunity for experiencing this dynamic catalytic state. The seas of emotion become electrically charged and fuel the passions in a way that pushes the intended goal towards active and creative product.

Workings that have desire of goal to activate emotional response that is courageous and dynamic in its resultant creations benefit from lunations in Leo. Work done that encourages productive action that aligns with what is felt in the emotional center is well suited to Leo’s energies. These are the emotional outpourings that produce great works of art, passionate relationships and creation of what the heart most desires.

The New Moon of Leo could be used to draw up those goals that have been held in the dream-state because they lack the confidence and/will to or be acted upon. Allow yourself to be bold in what you envision as the creative product of these goals. Filter them through the test of how much energy, time and effort you are willing to dedicate to their birthing. Narrow it down to one singular goal that is infused with emotional commitment and engagement. See this goal as a pool of deep and dark waters of creation (the waters of the primordial womb – Nun). Now envision the intent of your will and the power of your desire as a flame held within your central core. Breathe this ember of flame into those waters as the initial and beginning state of catalyzing what you wish to birth.

The Full Moon would be the time of active effort taken to bring what you desire into creation. Envision the quickened waters that flowed at the New Moon now as a vast sea; ablaze with flaming and brilliant Light. This sea shines brightly and the light and Fullness of Mother Moon looks down lovingly on the quickening of you, Her most precious creation. What actions will you take to insure that these waters continue to flow strongly? What actions will you take that will support the fires of will that flow within?

The Waning Moon’s energy would be the point of the receding waters and the revealing of what actions were fruitless in support of your goal and what sparks that may rekindle the flame anew are worth retrieving. This release is one of allowing the falling away of what remains that would keep in the shadows the efforts of your will. This time of waning is also the cooling period so that what has been heated and tempered can now cool and solidify as it awaits a new bolster of active will at the next New Moon.

Some Additional Astrological properties of Leo

Keywords: Courage, Strength, Dominance

The Archetype: The King is the archetype associated with Leo. This exemplifies the aspect of Leo that claims dominance and has the confidence to demonstrate leadership, even in the most challenging of circumstances. The King stands in a place of authority and has the ultimate control of what occurs in his kingdom. This archetypal energy, if well used can shore up the confidence of any who must rise to a role of leading.

The reminder here is that all kings are remembered for the way in which they exerted the natural power given to them. The lessons of history are full of the tyrannical ruler as well as the beneficent one. Aligning this power with right action and tempering it with the appropriate amount of merciful understanding and humility will insure that what is remembered historically will be a ruler who served rather than only received.

Rules Astrological House: The 5th House of the Zodiac, the space of creative outpour:

Moving through the Zodiacal Wheel’s energy, the First House is the singular “you” identified by your personality and who you are presently and who you who hope to become. The second House holds the possessions and things you have acquired that further define you. The Third House represents how you express yourself based on what you have learned of yourself (1st House) and what you have chosen to surround yourself with in the material world (2nd House). The Fourth House has taught the lessons of home and family; commitment and unconditional love for who we are. Arriving at the Fifth House we are now ready to emerge from the security of friends and family and stand courageously in the Light of the choices we have made that have crafted this self.

Moreover, we are ready to actively engage in the dance of Life as we become more confident in our personal power. The Fifth House is the space in which we enable ourselves as creative beings. We try and succeed, we revise and we fail; but we always continue on. Each creation begetting another, and what we claim as our own becoming the catalyst for a new creation.

Color:

The vibrant Yellow of the sun and Orange-Red glow of the sunset are the colors associated with Leo. There is nothing pale and demure about Leo’s energy and these colors are bold and dynamic in the response they evoke. This is the goal, after all, of Leo; to attract attention to itself and boldy move forward.

The Heated Waters: Cancer to Leo

The tides churn as they keep
Pace with their eternal cycle.

Sun pours down on cooling
Heart and what lay dormant
Stirs and bubbles up to the surface.

Vapors of steam coil heavenward
And what flows beneath is potent
And purposeful in its flaming path.

Will coils around passion’s heart
Serpent-like in its energy and path
And in the low rumbling of throat
Poised and ready to bellow out its roar
The waters rise up
The fire spews forth
And all is forever
Transformed.

Leo is the Fifth sign of the Zodiac:

Having found the security of emotional support under the nurturing care of Cancer, Leo is now ready to burst on the scene and stand on its own. Challenge is welcomed as each opportunity offers a lesson about how our active nature can best be used. Leo is the second of the Fixed signs, following the Cardinal energy of Cancer and the second round of the modalities. Just as Cancer serves as the beginning of a more mature and supportive expression of the emotions, Leo holds the stable container for the intense heat of will fueled by passion and desire acted creatively upon.

Seasonally, under the potent rays of the Leo sun we have enjoyed the rewards of the First Harvest of grains (Northern Hemisphere) or are enjoying the first budding of Spring’s growth (Southern Hemisphere). Both of these events are about creation and the spark of life that is contained within. The grain that is now ripe for the taking and will sustain and fuel the family through the winter months and the burgeoning life that stretches upwards drinking greedily from Father Sun’s energy.

In its highest expression Leo’s energies become the tool’s that we use as we claim dominance over what path of expression we choose in exerting our will and power. These are the lessons of self-control and strength that can be relied upon to be unfaltering in its loyalty.

As we move through each of the Solar Temples in the coming year, it will become more apparent how interconnected they are. The story that is woven is one of growth and evolution that is just as relevant today as it was to the ancients. We learn from these natural cycles and their application is profound mundanely and spiritually.

Resources:

Other Posts to Re-read:

Temple of the Sun- Leo
Hear Me Roar

New Moon in Leo: Temple of the Sun
Standing in the Spotlight

Full Moon in Leo: The Lion’s Share

Temple of the Moon:

Dark Moon in Leo
Day Twenty-Nine: The Midnight Flame

New Moon in Leo
Completion: Standing Naked in the Light

Next Post
Saturday, August 23.2014
Temple of the Sun: Transit into Virgo

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

The Temple of Mercury-Is Anybody Out There?

Posted in Magick, Mercury, The Temple of Mercury with tags Air, astrology, celestial, cosmic, duality, earth, esoteric writings, Hermes, mutable, pathworking, planetary days, quicksilver, Temple of Mercury, Virgo on October 9, 2013 by themagickalpen

Wednesday, October 9.2013- Wk. Two

NOTE: Last week there was an error in attribution of Planetary Day. Mercury rules Wednesday, so posts will be on Wednesdays.

As we discovered last week, Mercury is “the planet of communication, inquiry and dissemination through all creative acts of connection and interaction. In summary, Mercury always wants to know “What’s up?”; and then spread the news received.” Not only does it want to get the information out there but also wants response to that dissemination and the knowledge that people actually “got” what was being conveyed.

The astrological wheel and natal chart of an individual are the ultimate Mercury experience. Information is held in each planet, astrological sign and house in which it is placed and the resultant aspects they form. The more you peel back the layers of this information, the depth you find within your own natal blueprint. This enables you to respond to your potential strengths and transform your weaknesses in a way that sets up the lines of communication and creativity within you. The possibilities are endless and makes us more curious about our world and those in it.

Astrological Mercury

So, in that spirit of curiosity, this week we’ll take a look at the energy of the planet Mercury and its Astrological persona. Mercury is the ruling planet of two astrological signs- Gemini and Virgo. These Astrological signs are of the Mutable Modality; meaning that they hold the energy of flexibility, expansion and thresholds of endings and new beginnings. Looking deeper, they are of the elements of Air (Gemini) and Earth (Virgo). And if we consider them together we have the basic Mercurian goal. That of taking those inspired thoughts, sending them out in all manner of airy flow and movement; having them stand the test of analysis and sorting so they may be brought down into a place manifest reality (Virgo) and ultimate creation. This is the primary directive of any type of communication- to have it brought to life in a concrete and useable way!

Mercury – The Exhale of Communication and the Vehicle of Expression

Element:	Air/Earth
House:	Three and Six
Astro Sign of Rulership:	Gemini/Virgo
Day of the Week:	Wednesday
Medical:	Nerves & Lungs

The Astrological Houses

Mercury is the ruling planet of the Third and Sixth Houses. The Third is the place of expression, personal and spiritual. The Sixth is that of service and creating/offering something useful to others. These are considered Cadent Houses and as such offer the potential for growth and expansion. You could liken this to the Mutable modality in that both are expressions of taking what has been gathered and drawing it to a final state of being before the cycle of expansion begins anew.

HOUSE THREE Self- Expression/Presentation- What you possess and how you express/define yourself by these acquisitions.

House Type	Cadent
Ruling Sign:	Gemini
Ruling Planet:	Mercury
Element	Air
Modality	Mutable

HOUSE SIX Service/Career- That which is your calling? Where you feel responsibility and act upon it. Harmonious collaboration. And, how freely and where you offer your gifts and talents to sustain connectivity.

House Type	Cadent
Ruling Sign:	Virgo
Ruling Planet:	Mercury
Element	Earth
Modality	Mutable

The Archetypes

All Deities of communication would fit into the scope of Mercury’s qualities; the most well known of these being Hermes, the Divine Messenger of the Gods. He is portrayed as protector and patron of travelers, shepherds, thieves, orators and wit, literature and poets, athletics and sports, invention and trade. In some myths he is a trickster; and, so quick is his tongue and mind that he could talk his way out of or into any situation he desired. It was also the duty of Hermes to act as psychomp, guiding the souls of the dead down to the underworld. He was closely connected with bringing dreams to mortals in answer to the queries they had. Hermes is usually depicted with a broad-brimmed hat or a winged cap, winged sandals and the heralds staff (Caduceus in Latin). It was often shown as a shaft with two white ribbons, although later these were represented by serpents intertwined in a figure of eight shape, coiling upward towards a dual winged tipped. The clothes he was shown wearing are usually that of a traveler, or of a workman or shepherd. Other symbols of Hermes are the cock, tortoise and purse or pouch. His Roman counterpart was named “Mercury”.

Caduceus

The connection to Medicine and the mercurial caduceus which is its universal symbol speak to the need for clear, concise communication in the healing arts. This communication may take the form of physiological neural pathways, energetic resonance or simply good bedside manner, which encourages the patient to be compliant in their treatment. At the energetic level, there has been much research done regarding the correlation of mind/thought and the ability for the body/manifest form to heal and maintain the health of itself.

The Planetary Glyph

The Planetary glyph of Mercury also offers layers of meaning. It is composed of three basic geometric shapes. Once you have the basic understanding of these symbols you can draw your own conclusions about the glyphs of the other planets.

The Circle:

Eternity – Cycles – Connectivity

The Crescent:

Eternity Parceled – The Moon – Involution

The Equilateral Cross:

The Four Quarters – Point of Intersection – Cross Polarity

So we could think of Mercury as drawing down into itself the wisdom of the higher and intuitive realms; moving it through the varied cycles of connectivity and producing the potential for manifest realms at the point of intersection of the inpouring of the four elements and the space of Malkuth or the manifest realm.

No journey would be complete through this exciting realm of Mercury if it did not include a pathworking to capture the essence and vibrancy of the Mercurian Mind. In keeping with Mercury’s informative nature read through the information prefacing the pathworking for suggestions about getting more from the experience.

Good– Read through the pathworking each time you want to use it. Make note of pausing in the reading wherever it feels like more time would be spent in the specific train of thought.

Better- Read through the pathworking several times and as you do so, try to set up key points that are stored in the memory. In this way, you can create your own scenarios using the structure of the original pathworking without having to read through the text each time.

Best- Employ the physicality of recording the pathworking in your own voice (which produces an effective recognizable neurological imprint inducing physiological response and imprint) to listen to.

When you are ready to make the recording be sure to select a space where you will not be interrupted and has minimal background noise.

Be sure to speak slowly (more so, if you tend to speak quickly and do not annunciate well) and clearly and to give pause where it would naturally occur if you were reading aloud. There may be some points in the pathworking where you will want to spend several minutes in the locale that is being presented. Remember to give adequate time of silence for this. Do not stop the recording, simply pause and restart it. Allow the amount of time you wish to have to fill the space on the recording and then resume the reading of the pathworking.

Regardless of what method you use, remain open and receptive to what presents to you beyond what has been scripted through the pathworking. Having a journal to record your impressions can serve as a valuable tool if you plan to use the pathworking again.

Quicksilver Speak

A Pathworking in the Temple of Gemini

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 Gemini, the Twins hovers in the entryway.

As you step through the orange glow of the Glyph of Gemini you see two perfectly mirrored twins sitting having a conversation. They are both blonde and although they appear androgynous, as many children do, there are slight nuances and physical features that separate them as being male and female. They pause in mid-sentence for a moment, turning to acknowledge your arrival, and then turn back to one another continuing the same thread of thought. Question, answer, and statement flash back and forth between the two at lightening speed. You feel both energized and a bit exhausted as your mental processes are not of this mind-set and cannot keep pace with the chameleon like changes in rhythm, clarity and intonation. You turn your attention to the room and see that books line shelves which encompass all four walls; and papers are strewn about haphazardly as though they had recently been impatiently rifled through and then carelessly left wherever they were put. You stand off to the side and observe how each of the children seems to change their mental position at will. One will agree on what statement has been made and then completely disagree about another. The other seeming to mirror every change of its twin with a steady and regulated pace.

They are discussing their favorite activity of reading and as the conversation becomes more excited, they stand and begin to gesture and point to make clearer their statement fact. As they move around the room going from one conversation to another surrounding this book or that you sense that somehow although appearing to be two, they are actually of one mind. That the duality you are seeing is actually the mental acrobatics of a mind that shifts and moves in accord with wherever the stronger enticement lay. This is the secret of their mental agility. The sheer ability to adapt and change at will to suit the needs of the situation. Although you are excited to have solved this one piece of the puzzle and are beginning to feel more at ease in following the direction, speed and flow of their conversation, your attention is drawn to one corner of the room.

You see a beautifully decorated standing mirror placed diagonally in the corner space between two of the walls. As you move towards it, the sound of the conversation seems to fade and just as you come to standing directly in front of the mirror you turn to see if the twins have fallen silent, and see that you are in the room alone. As you turn back towards the mirror you see more clearly your own reflection. You are a bit surprised, because although you recognize the reflection as being yourself, you also notice that there is the slightest bit of difference. It is not something you could concretely describe or even attribute to distortion of the glass; but rather, more of a perception.

Thoughts of the Coney Island fun house mirrors flood your mind, but those are more straightforward in their deception. This is almost transparent in its subtleness. Your eyes focus on the images of the room behind you that are also reflected. And, again the same feeling of something being ever so slightly different bubbles up. As you stand looking at this mirrored image, you notice that your mood has somewhat changed. You had felt energized and excited, but now as you stare into the glass, you feel a heaviness of mind in trying to solve this perplexing state of vision. It seems as though the longer you stare into this reflection, the more withdrawn and irritated you feel. You take a deep breath, sighing heavily. Just as you release the last bit of exhale, you hear the sounds of heated debate and conversation flooding back into the space.

You turn and see that the twins are once again sitting at the table and debating which game is the most challenging. As the sounds become louder, your mood begins to lift as well. You look back at the mirror and are surprised to see that your image, as well as the room behind you are just as you thought they should be. You think on the changeability of perceptions and ideas and how there are always two sides to every process of thought. You think on the flexibility that approach from this aspect permits, but you also remember the sheer exhaustion of that flexibility and the never ending cycle that can be created by not fully committing to one stream of thought.

You look towards the twins once again and see that they too have succumbed to the mental acrobatics. Each rests a blonde curly head on the table-top, eyes closed. You imagine that even in their dreams they are exploring new topics of discussion, new ways of problem solving and always sensing the dual nature of each expression.

As you deepen into these musings, you are surprised to find that you are once again standing centrally in the circular room. You make mental note that there had been no obvious transition from one space to the other and you think back to the trickery of the mirror you gazed into. Giving this no more thought, you look upwards towards the night sky and it seems as though a few of the stars are shining a bit more brightly now than when you first entered. You take a deep breath in and as you exhale, you feel enlivened and at peace in this space of celestial beauty. You know you can visit again and the thought fills you with anticipation of what each of your journeys will reveal. You 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 in, 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.

Pathworking Excerpted from: It’s Written in the Stars.R.Fennelly.2012

Recommended Reading:

Lyn Birkbeck. Divine Astrology-Enlisting the Aid of Planetary Powers
Linda Goodman: Star Signs
Linda Goodman: Sun Signs
Steven Forrest. The Inner Sky
Alan Oken. Soul Centered Astrology
Lindsey River and Sally Gillespie. The Knot of Time: Astrology and the Female Experience

Full Moon in Pisces

Posted in Esbat, Lunar, Magick, Moon Tide, The Temple of the Moon, Uncategorized with tags astrology, earth, Esbat, esoteric writings, Full moon, Lunar, Magick, mutable, pathworking, Pisces, Virgo, Water on September 19, 2013 by themagickalpen

Full Moon in Pisces

Sun in Virgo

The Mutable Water of Pisces expressed within the Mutable Earth of Virgo

Today the moon is Full in the astrological sign of Pisces. Pisces offers the energy of compassion and intuitive sight and is considered the path of understanding. It is the last sign of the Zodiac and could be considered the Elder in the cycle. This sign stands at the place of endings and heralds in the bridge that will move towards the re-birthing of Aries- the youngest of the zodiac signs. Drawing on what has preceded from the other signs, each in turn and finally brought to conclusion, Pisces is driven by emotional response. Although, there is not always the appropriate discernment applied to determine what is real and what is illusion. Just as the older person looks to past experience to draw their conclusions in the present, Pisces gathers everything to itself, but is not always well equipped to sort through with the same emotional dexterity that youth would bring.

The ruling planet of Pisces is Neptune (with a co-ruler of Jupiter). This presents as emotional release that is expansive and can become all pervasive, drowning the holder of this energy in their own emotional outpour. If allowed to flow in this way, these energies are non-productive and compassion becomes martyrdom. This overflow is the by-product of its co-ruler Jupiter, whose primary function is expansion without consideration of the container within which it exerts its potency. The modality and element of Pisces is Mutable Water. This is the place of flexibility of emotions and insight with the caution given to be mindful that the flexible nature does not over stress the container. Therefore, the need to create stronger and less permeable boundaries is of high priority. In this way the waters may be guided towards the appropriate space of opening to which they will become the new source feeding into the greater river of humanity as healer and source of compassionate sanctuary.

The support of this Full Moon’s energies is found in the Solar Month of Virgo. The astrological sign of Virgo is Mutable Earth. This provides a flexible, yet fertile foundation upon which to sort through the details of what will newly be started. This is the opportunity for analytical and precise organization and inventory of those emotions and insights of the Pisces Moon that serve and those that drain and water-log progress. Taking time to see our flaws and weaknesses in the strength of the sun allows us to heal and grow through transformation. Healing is the work of Pisces and aligning with your intuitive self opens those flood gates so that what is contained behind their restrictive bars may flow freely; hidden and locked away no longer.

Making use of the attributes of the Moon and the Sun and their respective astrological signs the opportunity is one of Water (Pisces Moon) of Earth (Virgo Sun). These are the waters that are needed and thirstily drawn in for fertile and productive growth on the land. These are the waters that smooth and polish the ragged rocks of our daily experience that provide resistance to the natural river’s flow. These are the waters that provide safe haven and hold the mysteries of the depths that make up the vast amount of the earth’s surface; teeming with an even greater diversity of life. These are the waters that ebb and flow at the moon’s call, responsive and reactive to the universal energy and ever flowing in the cycle that comes to its peak of potential at each of the full moons.

Suggestions for Meditative Focus or Esbat Working:

These themes may be used in mediation tonight or woven into a working for your Esbat ritual.

A Clear Flowing Stream

Spend some time thinking about where you have recently felt drained emotionally. Breathe deeply into this area of feeling. As you exhale, allow these feelings to move as though flowing gently in a stream of water. Look upon the waters as they flow and see them as clear running waters flowing out and away from you.

A Pathworking of Healing

The Healing Temple

Sitting in a space where you will not be disturbed, take a moment to make conscious note of your surroundings and the physicality of your being in this space. Gently close your eyes and turn your awareness to the pattern of your breath. Allow your breathing to lengthen and relax into a calm and steady rhythm.

Shift your attention to the space between your brows and the inner screen of your meditative conscious mind. Sit as observer of this screen, taking note of the form of this inner landscape. Now see yourself standing and walking towards this inner screen. A pin- point of violet light forms just ahead of you and begins expanding in diameter as you walk towards it. When you arrive at the place of being immediately in front of this violet veil, it has expanded, stretched and opened to become an arched gateway. The faint glimmer of starlight flickers within its opening and you feel called to step into this place.

You step through this archway and find yourself in the center of a circular room. The walls are a shade of light sky blue and the floor is emerald green marble. You look upwards and see that the room appears to open and the vast panoramic view of stars twinkling offers view overhead. The room smells of Frankincense and is quiet and serene in ambiance. As you look around at the walls enclosing this space you take note of the sensation that the blues are variant in color and the impression is almost one of being encased within a glass structure and submerged in the depths of a clear beautiful ocean.

The floor sparkles like the facets of a freshly polished emerald and light and shadow co-mingle; entwined like lovers moving in the ecstasy of union. Take a moment to breathe deeply and take in the calming energy of this space. As you exhale you see that a chair is placed centrally in the room. It is ornately carved and made of fragrant wood. You approach and sit down, feeling the resiliency and gentle support of this chair. You sit for a moment and allow your body to rest in its supple support.

As you breathe slowly and deliberately you begin to form the intent for this healing work. Draw up in your mind’s eye the vision of yourself, whole and functioning in a thriving and healthy manner. Now, speak softy the intent of this healing. Speak the words that form this intention of what needs healing and what needs release so that process may begin. As you begin to speak you see that the space of floor around you glows in vibrancy. Each word enlivens and informs this space of living energy. You continue to speak the words of release of what needs healing and they drop away from you, falling into this living mass of vibrant healing green energy. You pause now to allow the intent to fill the space surrounding you. The energy of green veil rising upward and encircling you as it draws from the space the words of release you have spoken. Sit in the energy of this healing release; quietly and simply observing each and every word as it is absorbed by this healing green energy.

The green veiling subsides and withdraws back to the floor beneath. You feel energized and have clearer intent about what you now wish to call into your being and this space as whole, enlivened and healthy energy. As you think on what these words shall be, you notice that the energy of the blue walls moves gently inwards towards you. You begin to speak the words of power and healing that affirm your renewed and whole state of being. Each word is held for a moment in a soft veil of blue soothing energy and then is enlivened and transformed into a sparkling bead of blue light. You continue with the affirmations and take note that the blue beads are increasing in amount and the vibrancy of their glow is palpable in feeling and intent. Speak all that you need, amassing as much of this transformed energy as you feel is needed. The air surrounding you is electrified with the energy of these intentions you have formed and you feel energized and enlivened. When you have spoken all that is needed, take a moment to sit and observe the beauty and power of this veil of pulsing blue light encircling you. Make note of how alive and responsive each of these intentions is. Affirm the potency of their nature and the power held within the core of their being.

As you sit observing you see that the vibrancy of the blue is pulsing more quickly now and with light that is increasing in brilliance and intensity. Each breath you take seems to offer more vibrancy to the growing light held within each. This is the brilliance of healing white light holding the intent of mind, heart and will. You close your eyes in response, as the intensity and brilliance of light continues to expand filling the Temple. You breathe in and with intent and focus draw this energy into you. Each inhalation draws more of this vibrant light of brilliant healing into the core of your being and each exhalation moves it into the areas of your body that need healing and renewal. Each breath fills you with this vibrancy and each breath encourages healing and strength. Continue in this way until you feel complete, strong and revitalized.

You open your eyes and see that the room has cleared of the brilliance of this light and looking upward you take note that the stars appear to be twinkling more brightly. You feel completely at one with all that surrounds you and offer up gratitude for the healing and renewal that has occurred. Remain quietly held in this space of gratitude and renewal for as long as is needed.

When you are ready, you stand and feel a surge of strength coursing through you and a deeper sense of your own power to affect change within your self. You look around once again and the walls are now a more vibrant blue and the floor shimmers like millions of small green emeralds, each separate yet more powerful and vibrant in their combined efforts. Take a deep breath in and feel the energy of this place. Declare it as your own space of healing and renewal and affirm that you will visit this space whenever you have need for healing and enlivening.

You see the archway through which you entered just ahead of you and begin to walk towards the entryway. Each step is now stronger in its placement and more purposeful in its intended destination. You arrive at the entry way and see that the violet veil of energy is sparkling more brightly and you feel its density and plasticity of form as you step through it. You emerge and find yourself once again sitting as observer of this inner screen. You breathe into the energy of your experience and with each inhalation and gently exhale you become more fully aware of your breath; the rise and fall of your chest and the physicality of your body sitting in the space in which you began. Gently flutter your eyes open and take a few more, very deep breaths offering the intention of gratitude, health and a renewed state of being.

So Mote It Be!

Resources:

The Magickal Pen Blog

The Healing Temple Pathworking

Books by R. Fennelly:
Info at http://www.robinfennelly.com

The Inner Chamber: Volume One
It’s Written in the Stars

The Elemental Year
Aligning the Elements of Self

New Moon in Virgo: Analysis and Building

Posted in Esbat, Lunar, Magick, Moon Tide with tags astrology, celestial, cosmic, Esbat, esoteric writings, Lunar, mutable, new moon on September 5, 2013 by themagickalpen

September 5.2013

New Moon in Virgo

Sun in Virgo

Let Me Break it Down

Describe to me again
In detail what it is
That you want me to do.

If you can give me
Sufficient information
I can draw a finely
Tuned conclusion.

But, if you omit the
fine points I will be
forced to search until
I have the information
I need.

I can be impetuous at times.
And, occasionally I appear to be
The neophyte who is thought
To not have nearly enough experience.

These are the qualities that
Allow me to seek and unravel
The deepest of mysteries.
I see with the eyes of
One who has not been
Jaded and corrupted by
Pre-conceived assumptions.

My attention to detail
Is rivaled by none
And my organizational skills
Are something that many
Wish they could master.

I am shrewd and analytical
And will stand strong if
Any analytical mind
Is questioned.

Some may see me as
Inert and caught up in the web
Of over-analysis and detail.
Others would praise my
Orderly and inquisitive nature.

So, next you have need
Of one whose hand moves
With meticulous grace
Seek me out.

And let me
break it down
for you.

Today the moon is New in the astrological sign of Virgo. New Moon energy is that of beginnings and the culling together of the resources that will seed what you wish to bring to peak at the next phase of the Full Moon. The Sun has been in the sign of Virgo since August 22 and is now poised at mid-point in the strength of its energetic outpouring of Virgo’s qualities. The combination of both sun and moon in the same astrological sign (typically the case at the time of the New Moon) gives an extra bolster to the weaving of solar light and strength and lunar shadow and emotional flow. Forged as one they are the exemplary energy of the astrological sign they hold alnd the potential for drawing fully on its resources is maximized.

Virgo is of the Mutable modality. This is the energy of flexibility and gentle expansion so that its reach and impact will ultimately become the initializing catalyst towards something newly birthed and transformed. Mutable signs are those of endings and beginnings and they become the gateway that contracts and expands in forward movement. Virgo is an Earth sign and as such this flexibility in terms of earth becomes the soft clay that is organized, restructured, and through careful analysis and planning is sculpted into what becomes the foundation of solid form. This is the scaffolding upon which great endeavors can extend far and wide and the time spent in detailing and refining this priming state will stand the tests of time.

The ruling planet of Virgo is Gemini. This is the energy of communications and creative use of all expressions that serve to inform. Analysis and reforming conclusions based upon what is brought to light are key components in working with Virgo’s energy.

When the moon is New in Virgo, workings and meditations that uncover the strengths and weaknesses of what you are hoping to set as your foundations for growth and expansion are maximized. The trick is in remaining deliberate and unbiased in what your assessments are without being over judgmental with misplaced attention on what is not the priority. Enter into this process of detail with perfect love and perfect trust, knowing that your highest good stands as the foundational core of what is produced from these efforts.

Take some time this evening to reflect on what it is you want to craft as a new foundation from which to grow. What are those aspects of your current state that have become outworn and are no longer serving as stable supports to what you really want? What has remained strong and viable that you wish to expand upon and bring to a greater depth of core stability? As you call up these strengths, envision them as the scaffolding that will bolster what is in process and be the standing point to move upwards from as you build anew. As the days move towards the Full Moon on September 19th see the image of this new building growing and strengthening infused with loving care and attention to detail.

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Day Twenty-Five: The Epiphany of Silence

Posted in Esbat, Lunar, Magick, Moon Tide, The Temple of the Moon with tags Air, astrology, celestial, cosmic, esoteric writings, gemini, Lunar, Magick, mutable, silence, void of course on August 1, 2013 by themagickalpen

August 1

Waning Moon in Gemini

Void of Course @ 12:48pm

Sun in Leo

Moon’s energy has lessened outwardly, but is flowing deeply internally spreading into every cavern of our being. This is preparation and necessary for the birthing of the Moon anew in the next cycle of her potent phase. It has felt like there has been a definite change in where the thrust of energy has been directed since the peaking of the Full Moon and the days prior as it was waxing. The energies have been a bit more subdued, not really any less potent if you really pay attention, but a definite sense of inner refining and tweaking. As we are nearing the next New Moon cycle there is a feeling of slow and steady pressure building from the inside out. Nothing you can concretely put your finger on, but palpable nonetheless.

The last vestiges of Gemini’s presence was felt this morning and there seemed to be a slowing down in the communication venue. This would be the later stages of Gemini’s outpour so I guess people are all talked out and the pace is relaxing into that space of void at 12:48p.m. Today marks the Sabbat of Lammas, the first harvest of the Great Wheel. So, I am thinking about how this harvesting could be applied to the work that has been done so far on this journey.

The timing is ripe in that we are also in the Moon’s harvesting stage as it wanes; releasing and letting go of Her outward potency. Emotionally and intuitively, what has been nurtured and analyzed in moving through this lunar cycle would have been overwhelming and unproductive if it had been left to expand any further. Leaving Gemini’s constant chatter is similar to reaping what has reached maximum. After the cutting down of the exhaustive noise of communication comes a deep and satisfying silence that holds the keys of what cannot be articulated.

I had mentioned ion an earlier post about an analogy of these energies going though their own individual stages of beginning, peak and ending. The solar energy of its astrological sign of Leo will be hitting is peak point at the New Moon next Tuesday when Moon and Sun are in the same sign. This means that as the Sun’s energies have been waxing the Moon’s have been waning. I am thinking about what effect this could have on the lunar work done; especially since the Sun is in its ruling sign with the potency of draconian fire. The image I have is one of the potency of the Sun’s energy drying up what is left of the lunar waters. (again something similar to Harvest). And, if those waters do not find safe heaven and deeper integration, perhaps those emotions we wish to cultivate will wither and dry up.

So, perhaps moving into the deeper recesses and the space where silence informs and draws gnosis to itself is the safe heaven of integration I will explore. Entering this calming flow of transition is what I will try to do. The Moon will remain void until it enters it’s astrological sign of rulership- Cancer on Saturday morning at 12:29a.m. Until then, I am going to listen deeply to the silence of this void and bring with me those select parts of my emotional self that need more tending.

Words fell like rain
Spilling out and overflowing
Waters that had been dammed
Up and held secure.

Sound rumbled and roared
Like a sleepy lion
Awakened too soon
And ready to pounce.

Movement flowed
And clanged about
Noisily looking for
What path it had left behind.

Silence descended and
All that had raged
Uncontrolled and unanswered
Now rested cloaked in
The wisdom of its sound.

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Day Twenty-Four: Talk it Up

Posted in Esbat, Lunar, Magick, Moon Tide, The Temple of the Moon with tags Air, astrology, candle magick, duality, esoteric writings, gemini, Lunar, Magick, mutable, numerology, polarity on July 31, 2013 by themagickalpen

July 31

Waning Moon in Gemini

Sun in Leo

The Moon transits into Gemini this morning at 11:42am. We are now in the last quarter phase of our Moon cycle and the time when release and drawing inward is at hand. The astrological sign of Gemini is of the Mutable (flexibility) modality and Air (mind) element. Gemini is typified by its flexibility and agility of shifting course- at times mid-sentence- accessing either side of polarized energy in a heart beat. The symbol for Gemini is the Twins and having had twin girls I totally see the paradox inherent in both being the same and different simultaneously.

Communication is the buzz word of Gemini and the ruling planet is Mercury, which accounts for the attribution of communication as we know of the misunderstandings, delays and general snafus that occur when Mercury goes retrograde (stationary). Hermes, messenger of the Gods is also aligned with the energies of Gemini/Mercury and there is leeway for the trickster to present when accessing these energies. So, in application to the lunar tides and emotions great consideration must be given to what is cursory illusion and what can be claimed as true motive and true feeling.

Gemini is an Air sign so, mind and thought are driving forces in how the energy flows. Put this into the watery lunar depths and there is a strong opportunity for Mind and heart to get on board with one another. The cool things is the opportunity to contrast and compare through the duality that is present. The challenging thing is the opportunity to contrast and compare through the duality that is present (NO NOT A TYPO). This is where some discernment and opening the lines of communication with your Higher self comes into play.

I’m feeling like I have lots to say today, and so far it all has been emotionally driven. Not just surface chatter but a depth that is willing to resurface some things that haven’t seen the light of day for a while. I felt inspired and words were flowing faster than I could type (I really hate not having fingers of warp speed). The energy and atmosphere of the day was one of everyone being super friendly and clamoring to have their voice heard. Tomorrow is August 1st and only a few days more of this exploration which ends August 5th. The Moon will be in Cancer on Sunday August 4th and that will be the evening of the final ritual- The Dark Moon.

So, talk it up today. Really listen to what you have to say. Then see what emotions rise to the surface. How well aligned they are or how misleading they are, despite your good intentions. Then, in true waning style fashion, move within and let go of what is disingenuous and doesn’t quite fit the master puzzle you are crafting piece by piece.

** The numerology for the day is the number 8.

7/31/2013 = 7 + 31 + 6 = 44

4+4 = 8

This is a great synchronicity for this day of Gemini and the polarized action of the energy. The energy of the number eight involves return and release. The shape of the number itself offers mirror reflection of the eternal circle poised one on the other. If turned sideways this is the rounded version of the geometric lemniscate, symbol of eternity. I think of it as the polar opposites of the Gemini expression. Each o the circles are portal or doorways that may either be entered or emerged from. The choice is in the intent and the perspective. The illusion is in which action is actually being taken as one leads directly into the other in a continual pattern of both coming and going. This is much like the duality that can trip up Gemini’s energies. The number eight is also the opportunity to carry froward the higher teachings and experienced gathered in the energy of the number seven and send it on its selected path to be shared and through that sharing be returned in new form to the sharer.

I’ll post more on Numerology on Friday, August 2nd since the moon will be void of course all day. Another little something to just allow to pass carried on the deep waters that flow through.

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Temple of the Cosmic Spheres

Archive for mutable

Full Moon in Gemini- Your Call Cannot Be Connected As Dialed…..

Image: Switchboard Operator. Yes this was how phone calls were relayed way back when!

What Sort Are You? New Moon in Virgo

Let Me Break It Down – The Sun in Virgo

The Magick of Leo

Image credit: Brilliant Sun, Alternative Jazz Band

Full Moon in Sagittarius-Ready, Aim, Shoot!

The Temple of Mercury-Is Anybody Out There?

Full Moon in Pisces

New Moon in Virgo: Analysis and Building

Day Twenty-Five: The Epiphany of Silence

Day Twenty-Four: Talk it Up

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