Month: May 2011

How to Make a Magical Focus Board

How to Make a Magical Focus Board

Author: Deborah

A focus board has been called a lot of different things in a lot of different places. The (in) famous Secret calls it a Vision board. A lot has been made of The Secret‘s many flaws and issues. As Kathy Griffin said when her assistants made focus boards and then attributed her recent uprising in success to said boards, “I’m so sure it was the two of you and your Secret boards that did this, not, like, my many years of constant work.” So besides taking away that you should never get into a sweat lodge with these people*, as my friend and fellow blogger Gordon said, visualization is not enough.

On his blog RuneSoup.com, he calls it a success map. A focus board is not a replacement for solid magical spell work, which should include consistent mundane work, consistent magical work, divination, reachable goals and regular progress check-ins to ensure that what you’re doing is working and you’re not inadvertently missing the forest for the trees. But what a focus board will do is keep your eye on the prize and in my opinion, that’s the real purpose in having one.

You might be easily distracted like myself and get sidetracked from all the important things you’re actually supposed to be doing and instead watch back to back episodes of Bridezillas in your pajamas and/or drinking too many French Greyhounds and getting sucked into Facebook for nine million hours. It’s easy to get completely and utterly off track.

True confession time, I call mine a “serial killer” board. This is not due to aspiring to become a serial killer or advocating for others to become serial killers but because I watch a lot of crime dramas and inevitably if a fictional serial killer is involved on one of my shows, they tend to have a board that resembles a focus board, even on GossipGirl when it was just a run-of-the-mill single white female stalking problem. Juliet still had the Miss Martha level of organization and where-with-all to be sure to have a board neatly outlining all her plotting against poor Serena VanderWoodsen.

For some reason on television or in a movie, a serial killer always has an extremely high level of organizational skills even though they are also completely unhinged. Personally, I attribute that to word count issues for writers and a team of television writers who would like to hold onto their jobs as long as possible by making the main ‘big bad’ hang around for as long as possible, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats. But yeah, while my board is a very benign corkboard with pictures with scrapbook cut edges, pink yarn and a font with hearts in it, I can’t help but think about the crime procedural shows I watch, which gives merit to the argument that television does rot your brain though admittedly no real desire to do anything about it.

Anyway. For an example as to how to make sure you’re approaching your goals holistically, I’m working to bring more money in my life by mundanely working on my freelance writing career as well as a small Internet crafting business. Magically, I have a honey jar that I work with in the hoodoo tradition as well as some Feng-Shui work I do. I constantly make sure I’m working with my honey jar by inscribing words and symbols into candles I burn on it weekly and I make sure to keep my eyes open for new writing opportunities in various places. But, as I’ve said, I get distracted. So when I find myself getting into a massive Twittering frenzy, talking about things that have nothing to do with work, a quick glance to my focus board in my office reminds me when I see a picture of a typewriter and the word “Create” to get back to making sure I’m following through on my work mundanely.

Magically speaking, it gives your subconscious something to focus on to bring about things you would like in your life. I wanted more serenity and a yoga practice, randomly a few days after making my board I noticed a local yoga studio and got up the courage to email the owner to ask about a “work/trade” agreement where I would trade her administrative work for yoga classes. After a very successful interview (and I made sure to do a charm so I was charming) , we’re hammering out the details for the work/trade.

How to Make a Focus Board of Your Very Own

1. First, think about what you’re trying to accomplish in your life. For me I started by thinking of words because my brain sees words before pictures. My words are: Aspire, Create, Live, Serenity, Serve and Want.

2. Now find pictures that you feel are good representations of what you’re trying to accomplish. Some examples of my pictures include candles, a bank vault and the Eiffel Tower.

3. Get a smallish corkboard and push pins. Pick a font if you want to print words. I also used good quality heavy paper for my pictures and scrapbooking scissors to cut out my pictures so they had pretty edges.

4. Arrange. This is an awesome meditative stage where you get to play god of your own life and arrange all the pictures in a way that makes sense to you. I grouped my pictures according to each word.

5. Using yarn or string, carefully weave the thread between your pushpins. Magically speaking, it’s useful, as weaving the yarn through the push pins and connecting them together can be a magical act that’s as simple or elaborate as you’d like to make it. Spinning has long since been thought to be a magical act in many cultures. Grandmother Spider does it, The Fates do it and now you can weave together your goals for yourself. You should also think carefully about which pin to connect to which pin. For me, it was even more magical because I got to use the (pink) yarn that I had handspun myself for this.

6. Place the board in the right position. If you’re constantly glancing at it for a quick second at a time, it gives your subconscious food for thought. Mine is in my office, just out of direct eyesight but I can see it just out of the corner of my eye. When I get bored working, I tend to look around a lot so that adds to the occasionally seeing it but not seeing it too often aspect.


Footnotes:
*Sweat Lodge Deaths Investigated as Homocides http://articles.cnn.com/2009-10-15/us/arizona.sweat.lodge_1_james-arthur-ray-sweat-lodge-spiritual-warrior?_s=PM:USIn

Neo-Paganism: What is it?

Neo-Paganism: What is it?

Author: Crick

Neo-Paganism. What is it?

There is an old adage that no one is an island unto himself or herself. Which I believe is a prelude to the adage that misery loves company.

As a witch I walk this world as one who truly feels alone. Am I an island? Absolutely not, just a tired old soul who sees the world as it truly is.

I see the same level of hypocrisy within the pagan community as I see in the organized religions perhaps because so many who call themselves pagan today were members of those organized religions yesterday. Or perhaps it’s just because people in general tend to be apathetic when it comes to any real effort to grow spiritually.

I see the same insecurities in folks regardless of their chosen beliefs. By insecurities I refer to the way that folks claim to be individuals and yet they live and die each day by what others are doing and/or say. Such folks spend more of their time making judgments about others then they do asking how they can better themselves spiritually.

And so in general, we as a species continue to mouth the words and yet do just the opposite.
There are those who claim to be pagan and yet spend most of their time increasing the artificial lifestyle they have created for themselves. They do this knowing full well that such an artificial lifestyle comes at the expense of Mother Gaia. Raping and pillaging Mother Gaia is something that the human species is very adept at. If only so much time and effort were directed at improving the condition of our world. But then to do that we as a species would have to stop being so self centered and selfish and actually live up to the values that we claim to engage.
And so exactly what defines Neo-Paganism in today’s world?

Is it simply a way of being different in ones mind and yet the same in ones actions? Much like the teenager of every single generation who seeks to establish an individual identity even though in all reality they are following the same trail already unfolded before them.

Is Neo-Paganism, which in all reality is a revival of that which existed openly before the advent of organized religion, a true attempt to break away from the established mode of society as it presents itself today?

Do those who call themselves pagan in today’s world have the desire and discipline to break away from the established mindset?

After all, such folks come from a society where no one is to blame, unless it is the other guy who is at fault. They come from a world where the ego seems to reign supreme over human humility. Even though such displays of egotism is simply an acknowledgement of ones personal insecurities.

In some parts of the pagan community, paganism is used to control the hearts and minds of others in much the same way that organized religions attempt to do so. There are certain pagan groups who seek to set themselves as above others who reside under the same pagan umbrella. Is such personal control over others and elitism the definition of Neo-Paganism?

Do folks in today’s mystical society have any established concept of what it is that they believe in as pagans?

Judging from all of the maneuvering to be seen as the “master” by so many who really have no clue, and judging from all of the infighting amongst various pagan individuals and groups, one has to wonder if there is any coherent concept that one could apply to the description; Neo-Pagan.

Such a general concept should apply not only in description but in action as well. Granted there are “individuals” who walk the walk, but these folks are often set upon by those who claim to follow the same tenets as they apply to the general parameters of paganism. And so the hypocrisy continues unabated, for these folks are within the minority of a minority belief system.

And so one has to wonder if Neo-Paganism is truly an effort to establish a nature based belief system which is empowered by a people who actually put forth effort to acquire a higher sense of self. Or is it just a continuation of the same lack of principles and personal discipline that defines modern society, albeit under a different title.

I personally believe that the jury is still out on this last musing. In my personal opinion, if one is to follow the path of paganism in whatever form, then one needs to develop a sense of unbiased honesty. For in my mind, true paganism begins with one’s own spirit. There are no masters in this weary world of ours. We are all simply students of life, each seeking the lessons that befit them. Perhaps once we realize this we can begin the real work of identifying our own faults and worry less about the faults of others. Only then will we be able to separate ourselves from the status quo of today’s world and perhaps then we can add a real meaning to the definition of Neo-Paganism.

Are you one of those who believe that Neo-Paganism is all about Light and Love? Are you being realistic to yourself? For in all reality our pagan ancestors were quite adept at mayhem and war. One has to realize that there has to be dark in order for there to be light. This is polarity in its truest form. And even the various pantheons around the world contain those who were of an unsavory nature. It is how we balance these two aspects that define our lives regardless of which path we choose to follow. But one without the other is simply an empty facade.

In closing, how many hours this past week did you sit in front of a TV or a computer? How many hours this past week did you walk amongst the trees and listen to the birds sing or gaze up at the moon at night with unadulterated love? It is by these simple actions that we as “individuals” contribute to the definition of Neo-Paganism.

Are you content with your contribution?

Blessings

Crick

Today’s I Ching Hexagram for May 23rd is 14: Abundant Blessings

Today’s I Ching Hexagram for Everyone:

14: Abundant Blessings

Monday, May 23rd, 2011

Hexagram 14
 
General Meaning: Supreme success! Like the proverbial pot of gold at the end of the rainbow, a person whose fortunes have turned for the better shines as bright. At the core of this success lies unselfishness and modesty, for it is the tendency of a flexible or yielding nature to bind powerful forces to it, particularly when prosperity begins to manifest. When power is wielded with grace and dignity, there is supreme success and great abundance!

Ah, but be careful. Along with any accumulation of wealth or influence can come pride and arrogance. Fight such tendencies if you intend to continue enjoying your bliss. Stay attentive enough to manage your affairs well. And remember that while material prosperity certainly beats the alternative, it is only one of many elements of a satisfying life.

Your Daily Number for May 23rd: 6

Your Daily Number: 6

Family matters require your time and attention today. A younger person may look to you for support and guidance, or you may feel duty bound by someone close to you. It’s also a great day for finances, but hold off on any negotiations until tomorrow.

Fast Facts

About the Number 6

Theme: Family and Social Responsibility, Service, Healing
Astro Association: Gemini
Tarot Association: Lovers

Today’s Tarot Card for May 23rd is The High Priestess

Today’s Tarot Card for Everyone:

The High Priestess

This Tarot Deck: Fantastical Tarot

General Meaning: Traditionally called the High Priestess, this major arcana, or trump, card represents human wisdom. She can be viewed as a kind of female Pope, the ancient Egyptian Priestess of Isis, the even older snake and bird Goddesses, the Greek Goddess Persephone, or the Eve of Genesis before the Fall.

For the accused heretics who were burnt at the stake for revering her in the 14th and 15th century, she symbolized the prophecy of the return of the Holy Spirit, which was perceived as the female aspect of the Holy Trinity.

In the sequence of cards in the major arcana, the High Priestess appears as soon as the Fool decides he wants to develop his innate powers, making a move toward becoming a Magus. The High Priestess is his first teacher, representing the Inner Life and the method for contacting it, as well as the contemplative study of Nature and the Holy Mysteries

Your Daily Horoscopes for May 23rd

Today’s creative Venus-Mars conjunction in pragmatic Taurus enables us to concentrate on the power of now. Although the connection between artful Venus and assertive Mars can be playful, we may become obsessed with what we are doing in the moment. Fortunately, the Aquarius Moon reflects our need to be a part of the larger community. However, communicator Mercury’s uneasy aspect to taskmaster Saturn warns us not to be too rigid in our thinking.

Aries Horoscope
Aries Horoscope (Mar 21 – Apr 19)

You may think you know what’s happening today, but you could still miss the boat. Fortunately, your friends might be able to help you see the truth. It’s not that they know more than you; it’s just that they want what’s best for you and will tell you what they honestly think. Holding on to your current plans might seem like the smartest thing to do, but remember that you may have made up your mind even before you had all the facts.

 

 

Taurus Horoscope
Taurus Horoscope (Apr 20 – May 20)

You might still feel a bit spacey today if you’re unable to shake off yesterday’s mood. Although this confusion can be challenging if you have a decision to make, you probably know exactly what you want. The problem is that you don’t know the shortest route to your destination. You aren’t happy if you can’t read the signals, but get over your discomfort; your path will become clear if you stay focused on your goal.

 

 

Gemini Horoscope
Gemini Horoscope (May 21 – Jun 20)

It’s difficult to make any sense out of the data you have today because logical Mercury remains frustrated by stern Saturn’s demands for more facts. No matter how objective you think you are now, your analysis is still colored by your opinion. You may be very careful with your words, but you still come up short delivering your message. Don’t give up; keep searching for the missing pieces of the puzzle. They will eventually fall into place, but not without patience and extra effort on your part.

 

 

Cancer Horoscope
Cancer Horoscope (June 21 – Jul 22)

The conceptual Aquarius Moon may leave you feeling a bit detached from your emotions. You might be nostalgic, even if your past wasn’t actually as sweet as you now remember it. If you’re struggling for a simple route home and need some reference points, it’s perfectly natural to look back. Just keep in mind that these recollections are biased, so don’t make any serious decisions based upon them. Wait until you fully return to the present prior to giving your final answer.

 

Leo Horoscope
Leo Horoscope (Jul 23 – Aug 22)

Although you might have a project in mind, a friend or an associate could open your eyes to a new alternative today. Proceed with caution because the opportunity may not be as good as it seems and you might not be considering all the facts. You can analyze what can go wrong without dwelling on the negative. There’s no reason to be overly pessimistic; just add a healthy dose of reality to any plans you make at this time.

 

Virgo Horoscope
Virgo Horoscope (Aug 23 – Sep 22)

You could underestimate the amount of time it should take to do a particular job today. However, your ability to single-mindedly focus on your goal enables you to compensate for any errors in judgment. Unfortunately, you still may not complete everything you promised, but your honest explanation should be enough for others to understand. Tell the truth, but don’t turn it into an excuse. Continue working hard and others will soon recognize the quality of your work.

 

 

Libra Horoscope
Libra Horoscope (Sep 23 – Oct 22)

You’re ready for the workweek because you believe that collaborating with others will be fun and productive. But looking ahead too far can distract you from something that’s right in front of your nose today. Remember, you must take a proactive role in achieving your goals, even if you have to make adjustments to your plan along the way. Don’t worry about someone who thinks you should wait; if your intuition says do it now, then go ahead and listen.

 

Scorpio Horoscope
Scorpio Horoscope (Oct 23 – Nov 21)

If you think that you’re not being appreciated now, you may go out of your way to let others know exactly how you feel about the situation. Although expressing yourself is a wise move, it can also complicate your life. You aren’t likely to retreat from complexity, especially if it’s directly in the path of your truth. Fortunately, the Venus-Mars conjunction in your 7th House of Relationships indicates that your willingness to take a risk in the name of integrity today should pay off.

 

 

Sagittarius Horoscope
Sagittarius Horoscope (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

You can visualize your ideal situation in your mind’s eye and may be certain that this is exactly how things will unfold. But your friends and associates aren’t as sure of your current optimism, which appears unwarranted to them. Nevertheless, you cannot see anything wrong with your line of thought. Fortunately, you might not be as far off base as others think, but accepting a reality check from someone you trust is rarely a bad move.

 

 

Capricorn Horoscope
Capricorn Horoscope (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

You are quite concerned with doing the right thing now because you have your heart set on an objective and don’t want to waste any time. Although your intentions are serious, you cannot completely suppress your inner child that wants to come out and play today. It’s wonderful if you can carve out some space to have fun; just don’t get greedy and take too much. Find satisfaction in the little things and then return to your larger ambitions.

 

Aquarius Horoscope
Aquarius Horoscope (Jan 20 – Feb 18)

Your life might get a little strange today and your emotional reactions could surprise you. You are usually somewhat moodier when the Moon is back in your own sign, but unexpected twists and turns are even more prevalent now that the Sun is moving toward a sextile with erratic Uranus. There’s nothing you must do but remain flexible; whatever happens is probably synchronized with mysterious forces that may forge a new direction in your life.

 

 

Pisces Horoscope
Pisces Horoscope (Feb 19 – Mar 20)

The Moon’s visit to your 12th House of Spiritual Mystery may bring you assistance from unseen quarters today. You seem to intuitively know which way to go and pieces just effortlessly fall into place. But trusting a spirit guide, a guardian angel or the luck of the draw won’t be enough. You must also pay attention to the facts and balance your instincts with your perceptions of the real world. Nevertheless, don’t say no to an opportunity just because you’re afraid of the unknown.