I am having such a hard time focusing on those things in life that should be most important. It seems the last year has just thrown loopholes into everything and I spread myself too thin. Things start to become routine and smooth out and then something else happens.
I know everyone deals with these things all the time, but when I get overloaded I tend to let go of those things are are not absolutely essential. Unfortunately, my spirituality is not a matter of day to day necessity, so it always seems the first to go.
How do you make the Goddess a part of your daily life in simple ways that are meaningful?
Showing posts with label spiritual journey. Show all posts
Showing posts with label spiritual journey. Show all posts
Monday, July 25, 2011
Sunday, May 22, 2011
Honoring the Goddess
What can you do to bring your child closer to the Goddess?
If you are able to be open and honest with your beliefs, this should be fairly easy. If you are in the broom closet, things can become a bit tricky.
I feel like my boys (especially the nine year old) are more in tune with Christian beliefs than my own. The children at school are very open in this regard. It saddens me to think that I cannot be as open with my children as Christian parents.
Technically, I could. The consequences to my children though are not worth it. I know the Goddess understands and is accepting in my hesitancy.
My boys do ask periodically about why we do certain things and I explain that we are honoring Mother Earth. Eventually, I would like to refer to the Goddess as Earth Mother when they are a bit older as I feel it is at least closer to truth. When they are old enough to make decisions for themselves, I will finally use the term that is rightfully Hers, Goddess.
I am not a technical, ritualistic or formal pagan in the least. I do not believe I need to cast circles or preform elaborate spells to believe the way I do.
I am very simple and natural. If I look outside on a sunny morning and view a beautiful sunrise, I stop at that moment and thank the Goddess for all she is and all she has given. On Sabbats, we say a blessing, light candles in significant colors, and preform some sort of task based on the time of year.
Simple, yet effective.
All of these little things bring my children closer to the Goddess...
If you are able to be open and honest with your beliefs, this should be fairly easy. If you are in the broom closet, things can become a bit tricky.
I feel like my boys (especially the nine year old) are more in tune with Christian beliefs than my own. The children at school are very open in this regard. It saddens me to think that I cannot be as open with my children as Christian parents.
Technically, I could. The consequences to my children though are not worth it. I know the Goddess understands and is accepting in my hesitancy.
My boys do ask periodically about why we do certain things and I explain that we are honoring Mother Earth. Eventually, I would like to refer to the Goddess as Earth Mother when they are a bit older as I feel it is at least closer to truth. When they are old enough to make decisions for themselves, I will finally use the term that is rightfully Hers, Goddess.
I am not a technical, ritualistic or formal pagan in the least. I do not believe I need to cast circles or preform elaborate spells to believe the way I do.
I am very simple and natural. If I look outside on a sunny morning and view a beautiful sunrise, I stop at that moment and thank the Goddess for all she is and all she has given. On Sabbats, we say a blessing, light candles in significant colors, and preform some sort of task based on the time of year.
Simple, yet effective.
All of these little things bring my children closer to the Goddess...
- walks in nature
- growing a garden
- learning about the uses of herbs
- being thankful for the world around us
- and understanding natures yearly cycle.
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
Friday, February 25, 2011
Calling on the Goddess
Sometimes life goes by too fast and sends you into overdrive. It rapidly skates by while you sit and watch feeling like you are stuck on pause.
Nothing particularly special is happening. Nothing has really changed, yet you feel overwhelmed and in a funk.
This is where I am at. I am out of routine, tired, grumpy, and dissatisfied for no reason I can discern.
I'm not unhappy. I have no reason to be. I'm just not motivated to live life to the fullest so to speak.
What should a momma to two amazing little boys and wife to her best friend do?
Well, snap out of it of course!
As the old saying goes... This is easier said than done.
I need to get back in touch with nature, my Goddess, and the people I love. I need to put forth a bit of effort and change my outlook and plunge back into the life I love.
How do I plan to do this you may ask?
Hummmm. To be honest, I don't exactly know. I think I will start with spending some time alone... probably in the tub. Seems to be the only time I am truly alone for a good chunk of time. I think not thinking for awhile may be the place to start.
It's amazing how many times I get clarity from my stolen moments of solitude. I hope that by taking the time to ground myself I can shake this feeling of unrest.
How do you kick the funk?
What little things help you find your way when you seem lost?
Nothing particularly special is happening. Nothing has really changed, yet you feel overwhelmed and in a funk.
This is where I am at. I am out of routine, tired, grumpy, and dissatisfied for no reason I can discern.
I'm not unhappy. I have no reason to be. I'm just not motivated to live life to the fullest so to speak.
What should a momma to two amazing little boys and wife to her best friend do?
Well, snap out of it of course!
As the old saying goes... This is easier said than done.
I need to get back in touch with nature, my Goddess, and the people I love. I need to put forth a bit of effort and change my outlook and plunge back into the life I love.
How do I plan to do this you may ask?
Hummmm. To be honest, I don't exactly know. I think I will start with spending some time alone... probably in the tub. Seems to be the only time I am truly alone for a good chunk of time. I think not thinking for awhile may be the place to start.
It's amazing how many times I get clarity from my stolen moments of solitude. I hope that by taking the time to ground myself I can shake this feeling of unrest.
How do you kick the funk?
What little things help you find your way when you seem lost?
Saturday, January 8, 2011
Zen House Cleaning
Is zen house cleaning the way of the witch? The more I read the more I think it might just be.
My mom gave me the book: Zen and the Art of Housekeeping
for my birthday. When I first began reading I thought... "This is just crazy. Housekeeping and 'zen'? No way!" But not far into the book, I made a discovery... Everything we do in life has a purpose. We eat because we need the nutrition. We sleep to rejuvenate the body and soul. Why can't housekeeping have some higher purpose that just not living like pigs?As you read the book (I am actually not that far into it... YET.), you begin to realize that cleaning the home can be very therapeutic and meditative. After all, how many times have you made a life decision or come to a conclusion about something in life while in that deep thought evoking monotony of vacuuming or scrubbing the dishes? I know I have, ALOT.
If house keeping can really become a zen experience, maybe (just maybe) I can keep it up. We do not live in filth (not even close), but it does seem there is always something more interesting, shall I say, than cleaning my home. Cleaning my home is a chore and not one I like at all. There are always dishes in the sink and clothes in the washer. Maybe if I begin to think of these things with a new perspective, my entire outlook on keeping my home the peaceful sanctuary I so desperately need will begin to become a reality.
How to you make cleaning your home a 'zen' experience?
What do you do to make cleaning less of a chore and more enjoyable?
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
Holiday Blues
I am normally not a Grinch. This year for the first time in my 35 years I am not interested in the holiday season in the least. We haven't even put up a tree. This is usually done in November on my youngest son's birthday.
I have tried to get in the spirit, but nothing is working. We made a gingerbread house, homemade gifts for the teachers, baked cookies... nothing...
I am not sad or overwhelmed. I just do not care to be honest.
The only thing I can think of is that I really do not want to celebrate Christmas. The desire is gone. I have celebrated Christmas my entire life, but it has no meaning to me anymore. I would prefer to just celebrate Yule. Living in the Bible Belt and having a very Catholic family just doesn't lend itself to my beliefs. I can't take risk with what the outcome may be when my kids are involved.
When my kids are grown, I won't care as much. They will not have to suffer the consequences of my actions. At the present time though, unfortunately we live in an area of intolerance. (Not sure if you remember the nasty letter I received about my son wearing skull clothing and being inappropriate and unworthy of friendship with some of the other children in school. I was further chastised because as a teacher "I should know better.")
Thinking about it as I write maybe I am a bit sad. Sad that other people can influence and dictate my life. I know they truly can't, but it sure does that way at times.
Thus, the holiday blues.
How do you stay focused on the season?
What do you do to curb negative feelings and overcome the pressures of others?
How do you handle all this "junk" when their are preciously little kidlets involved?
I have tried to get in the spirit, but nothing is working. We made a gingerbread house, homemade gifts for the teachers, baked cookies... nothing...
I am not sad or overwhelmed. I just do not care to be honest.
The only thing I can think of is that I really do not want to celebrate Christmas. The desire is gone. I have celebrated Christmas my entire life, but it has no meaning to me anymore. I would prefer to just celebrate Yule. Living in the Bible Belt and having a very Catholic family just doesn't lend itself to my beliefs. I can't take risk with what the outcome may be when my kids are involved.
When my kids are grown, I won't care as much. They will not have to suffer the consequences of my actions. At the present time though, unfortunately we live in an area of intolerance. (Not sure if you remember the nasty letter I received about my son wearing skull clothing and being inappropriate and unworthy of friendship with some of the other children in school. I was further chastised because as a teacher "I should know better.")
Thinking about it as I write maybe I am a bit sad. Sad that other people can influence and dictate my life. I know they truly can't, but it sure does that way at times.
Thus, the holiday blues.
How do you stay focused on the season?
What do you do to curb negative feelings and overcome the pressures of others?
How do you handle all this "junk" when their are preciously little kidlets involved?
Sunday, November 28, 2010
Spiritual Growth and Understanding
I am a spiritual person, but by no means need the formality and elaborate process of circle casting and the such. A year ago, I would have probably said that I wanted to move in that direction. I wanted to be comfortable enough in my practice to cast a circle and hold a ritual on my own.
However, as I pondered what it is that I wanted out of my spiritual life, simplicity was the at the heart of my desires. I want to...
I do not believe that most other spiritual people feel the need to practice ritual and the such within their own home. This is usually done in church among other members of their community. Many Christians I know do not actually go to church. Most of what they believe and how they choose to live their lives is based on personal reflection and conversations with god.
So, I guess I am just writing to gather my thoughts and clarify my thinking.
Does anyone have any thoughts on this?
What do you think in regards to all the ritual, etc in most pagan traditions? Necessary or not?
I'd love to hear your thoughts.
However, as I pondered what it is that I wanted out of my spiritual life, simplicity was the at the heart of my desires. I want to...
- converse with the god and goddess to show my appreciations and seek guidance.
- understand the cycles of the moon and how it relates to all the earth's seasonal glory.
- understand what each season has to offer and explore and love every minute of it in nature.
- live by the Wiccan Rede.
I do not believe that most other spiritual people feel the need to practice ritual and the such within their own home. This is usually done in church among other members of their community. Many Christians I know do not actually go to church. Most of what they believe and how they choose to live their lives is based on personal reflection and conversations with god.
So, I guess I am just writing to gather my thoughts and clarify my thinking.
Does anyone have any thoughts on this?
What do you think in regards to all the ritual, etc in most pagan traditions? Necessary or not?
I'd love to hear your thoughts.
Saturday, September 18, 2010
A Big Question Indeed
Over at Pagan Parenting Resource Blog Nellie wrote a post entitled The Big Question. I responded to her post with the following:
Raising your child to follow the pagan path and have a sense of spirituality is indeed a big question. I agree that for most religions the question does not arise as it is expected that most will bring up their child with the same beliefs.
As for our family, I bring my children up following my beliefs in a way that does not dictate any religions view points. We talk about the changing of the seasons and how important it is to take care of the earth. My boys have loved space and nature since wee little ones. We read books related to things I would like them to know. We experience nature together as a family and talk about the importance of various things in nature. We even talk about how we do some things differently than others.
For example: We redo our nature table on the night of All Hallows Eve. We adorn it with scrapbooks, photos and objects of the ones we love that have passed. My boys think of the dead as spirits that look out for them and protect them. We talk to the person and invite them to spend the evening with us. We tell stories of special times and just relish in the memories.
My boys know that some people think Halloween is bad and do not participate in it at all and that others just dress up to get candy. We remember those we have loved and dress up to get candy. Plus, for us.
My eight year old began asking questions about God and heaven when his grandfather passed and again when he would have conversations with the children at school. I did not accept or negate anything he discussed. I simply listened to what he shared and asked him what he thought.
I will often give him multiple points of view and then, simply ask him to tell me what he thinks. Come to find out that most of the time even though he wants to agree with friends his thoughts are more in line with my own than would be expected.
As for more overtly pagan practice sure as tarot or pendulums used for divination, I explain it simply. Most people do not sue these things or might think it is weird. I use them to help me make decisions. I "read" the cards or take the answer the pendulum gives and ponder the outcome and if it is the right one for me. I think about how to change things to make my life happy, healthy, and fun. This really seems to be enough.
Now, I will say these are things I try not to do in front of them all the time. I want them to understand and see me using pagan things, but as much as necessary.
When my boys are of an age that they can truly choose a beliefs system of their own, I will explain the many things we have done and why we do them. In all honesty, I feel like my boys will take their pagan beliefs into their own family while following a more mainstream religion of their wives at the same time. I think that when the time comes they will automatically gravitate toward what is in their hearts. I will know that I have given them all the tools needed to make a wise decision whatever that may be.
Raising your child to follow the pagan path and have a sense of spirituality is indeed a big question. I agree that for most religions the question does not arise as it is expected that most will bring up their child with the same beliefs.
As for our family, I bring my children up following my beliefs in a way that does not dictate any religions view points. We talk about the changing of the seasons and how important it is to take care of the earth. My boys have loved space and nature since wee little ones. We read books related to things I would like them to know. We experience nature together as a family and talk about the importance of various things in nature. We even talk about how we do some things differently than others.
For example: We redo our nature table on the night of All Hallows Eve. We adorn it with scrapbooks, photos and objects of the ones we love that have passed. My boys think of the dead as spirits that look out for them and protect them. We talk to the person and invite them to spend the evening with us. We tell stories of special times and just relish in the memories.
My boys know that some people think Halloween is bad and do not participate in it at all and that others just dress up to get candy. We remember those we have loved and dress up to get candy. Plus, for us.
My eight year old began asking questions about God and heaven when his grandfather passed and again when he would have conversations with the children at school. I did not accept or negate anything he discussed. I simply listened to what he shared and asked him what he thought.
I will often give him multiple points of view and then, simply ask him to tell me what he thinks. Come to find out that most of the time even though he wants to agree with friends his thoughts are more in line with my own than would be expected.
As for more overtly pagan practice sure as tarot or pendulums used for divination, I explain it simply. Most people do not sue these things or might think it is weird. I use them to help me make decisions. I "read" the cards or take the answer the pendulum gives and ponder the outcome and if it is the right one for me. I think about how to change things to make my life happy, healthy, and fun. This really seems to be enough.
Now, I will say these are things I try not to do in front of them all the time. I want them to understand and see me using pagan things, but as much as necessary.
When my boys are of an age that they can truly choose a beliefs system of their own, I will explain the many things we have done and why we do them. In all honesty, I feel like my boys will take their pagan beliefs into their own family while following a more mainstream religion of their wives at the same time. I think that when the time comes they will automatically gravitate toward what is in their hearts. I will know that I have given them all the tools needed to make a wise decision whatever that may be.
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Feeling... lost?
Do you ever have a time of lull? A time when something that has been so important and life changing doesn't seem to bring the same spark?
At the moment, that is what is happening in regards to my spirituality. I began my pagan path in October of last year. I have almost come full circle and celebrated an entire Wheel of the Year. I am happy in my beliefs and content with the path I have chosen.
I wonder now as I am writing if it is not a feeling of being lost, but instead that of peace. Maybe my lack of want (with blogging and having ideas to post) is not because I need to do more or I have wandered from my heart, but because I have found my heart and it is HAPPY.
I use this blog as a place to track my feelings and ideas as I journey on my own, personal pagan path. Maybe... just maybe I have found the place I am meant to be... a place I can call my own... a place that needs no words.
If you want to find out more about what is happening in my life, visit oNe PiNK FiSH. Lately it has taken on the for front of my blogging. I have a feeling it may be my place to write for awhile. Though, I plan to write here too as the need arrives.
Also, visit Makin' Magic to get learning ideas for your little ones. This should really begin to explode in the next couple of weeks as school begins. I have alot planned and have the itchin' to share.
At the moment, that is what is happening in regards to my spirituality. I began my pagan path in October of last year. I have almost come full circle and celebrated an entire Wheel of the Year. I am happy in my beliefs and content with the path I have chosen.
I wonder now as I am writing if it is not a feeling of being lost, but instead that of peace. Maybe my lack of want (with blogging and having ideas to post) is not because I need to do more or I have wandered from my heart, but because I have found my heart and it is HAPPY.
I use this blog as a place to track my feelings and ideas as I journey on my own, personal pagan path. Maybe... just maybe I have found the place I am meant to be... a place I can call my own... a place that needs no words.
If you want to find out more about what is happening in my life, visit oNe PiNK FiSH. Lately it has taken on the for front of my blogging. I have a feeling it may be my place to write for awhile. Though, I plan to write here too as the need arrives.
Also, visit Makin' Magic to get learning ideas for your little ones. This should really begin to explode in the next couple of weeks as school begins. I have alot planned and have the itchin' to share.
Friday, June 4, 2010
A Reading of the Cards
So, I have been playing around with my new Celtic Message Cards. I absolutely adore the round shape. the cards feel just lovely in your hand. This far I have only been pulling one card in reference to a question or concern.
I was amazed at the results.
In which direction should I head?
Here is the card I pulled and the meaning I derived from the card.
The Mistletoe card is all about health and healing. I found this to be so appropriate at this point in my life. I need to lose about 50 pounds, lower my blood pressure, and start exercising and much more. My husband and I have been talking about what options I have. Seeing this card let me know that is time for a change and that I need to take action now and not later.
There was no question asked for the following card. I simple drew a card to see where it would take me.
The APPLE TREE card is all about using your strong physical and metal health to help others. T Man really wants next year to be the best school year yet. I need to be healthy in all ways to help him achieve this goal. Seems to play right along with the previous card I think.
This card also lends itself to magic and spiritualism. I think it is time to come up with a spiritual plan for my family as they are beginning to take on the beliefs of others. I feel like they can handle learning bits and pieces from me at this time as well.
The question asked for this card was for T Man.
What is in store my eldest son?
The SERPENT represents change. It shows major changes in the life of my soon to be 3rd grade. I have noticed this already. His maturity and desires have kicked in. He is more physically confident. Academically he is beginning to succeed.
I hope that this leads him the direction of drive and determination. T is so free spirited which I love, but he needs something to love and cherish... a sport, hobby, study, etc. As he is getting older, I hope this means he will begin to see the importance of trying our best in all endeavors.
This card was perfect for him.
The next question was for JJ.
What should we do when people stare or comment when out in public?
What should our reaction be? 
Thought I should preface with an experience we just had at the grocery store. This was a comment I left on FB to explain when someone asked about what had happened.
We turn onto an aisle and a man with his infant looks at me and says (as if J isn't even there),
"Man you sure let him get burnt didn't you?"
I couldn't help myself. I tried but I just couldn't.
I asked if he was really stupid enough to think I allowed my son to get so burnt that he looked the way he does. I informed him that if a child got so burnt as to look like JJ that parent would deserve to go to jail.
His wife laughed.
I couldn't believe it. I asked her if she truly thought someone going to jail for child endangerment was something to laugh at. no response....
The man at this point said that he was not trying to be ugly to which I replied something along the lines of... so you think it is okay to talk about my son as if he isn't here, accuse me of allowing him to get burnt enough that he would need medical care, and for your wife to think endangering a child is something to laugh at is okay. Again no response.
At that point, I had to let him know a bit of truth... i explained ichthyosis to which his wife ignored. I also made the suggestion that before he comments on other people and or their children he should think about what is being said.
JJ heard me and said that he didn't like that man because he made an ugly face at him when he walked by. The man heard him and was speechless.
I let him know it would be less of an issue if he was the only one who is rude and hurtful to my son in the store, but that since it would happen between 3-10 times during one shopping visit my son just doesn't deserve to deal with his ignorance and inhuman behavior.
At this point, I walked off.
The man never went down anymore isles during his shopping adventure. He had his wife do it.
I felt bad once I got home, but in the heat of the moment I couldn't control it.
JJ cries at least once during outings lately and it is heart wrenching. Adults need to go to sensitivity training.
With this being said...
The STAG lets you know that "now is not the time to stand up and fight. Recommends flight, prompt action, and escape from the situation."
This was segment taken directly from the explanation page that comes with my deck.
It was so straight forward an obvious.
Now, that I know what I am suppose to do I think I will meditate on exactly how to achieve it.
When it comes to your children, it is sooooo hard to just let them continue to get hurt and stepped on by others... especially when it is beyond their control.
After only a few readings with this deck, I definitely have to say it is my favorite from the two I have. The other deck is called Tarot of the Magical Forest. The pictures are beautiful, but it just doesn't feel the same.
Friday, May 14, 2010
More to Say...
I loved Anne's comment about just calling the goddess... well, Goddess. Unfortunately in the Bible Belt if that came out of my son's mouth at school there would be severe repercussions on him socially.
I do not remember if I posted about this, but earlier this year a parent at our school had the audacity to go into the teacher work room and place a nasty letter in my box. The gist of the letter was to inform me of my poor parenting due to allowing T to wear clothing that has skulls on them. It went on to further mention that as a teacher I should know this is completely unacceptable. This parent hopes to never have my son in a class with her child because his/her child should not have to be subjected to my son's inappropriate attire.
Yes, this really did happen. The part that was most ironic was that the parent did not sign the letter. I had no way to address the parent. They must know that I would have had several choice words to share on my son's behalf.
At the school I work at, this is common place. It is not excepted by the administration or teachers, but it happens nonetheless.
With that being said... that is why I need to come up with some way to explain my beliefs without handing him fuel for the fire so to speak. I absolutely hate that we cannot just openly discuss our beliefs, but what can you do?
I do not remember if I posted about this, but earlier this year a parent at our school had the audacity to go into the teacher work room and place a nasty letter in my box. The gist of the letter was to inform me of my poor parenting due to allowing T to wear clothing that has skulls on them. It went on to further mention that as a teacher I should know this is completely unacceptable. This parent hopes to never have my son in a class with her child because his/her child should not have to be subjected to my son's inappropriate attire.
Yes, this really did happen. The part that was most ironic was that the parent did not sign the letter. I had no way to address the parent. They must know that I would have had several choice words to share on my son's behalf.
At the school I work at, this is common place. It is not excepted by the administration or teachers, but it happens nonetheless.
With that being said... that is why I need to come up with some way to explain my beliefs without handing him fuel for the fire so to speak. I absolutely hate that we cannot just openly discuss our beliefs, but what can you do?
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
A Little Research
I am in search of a name to associate with the goddess. There are so many to choose from and all for such different reasons. I want something that is kid friendly and easily explained to children without an overtly negative connotation.
I have been researching because my oldest son has been asking questions about God. He feels a tie to "God" because of things children say at school. He hasn't so much been questioning now that I think of it. He has been more making statements that he feels are fact.
When I question him and try to get out his personal thoughts and feelings, it is amazing how much he really believes similar to myself without much guidance from me in spirituality at all.
Well, here are some facts I found about the moon and earth during my research as well as a link to the source. The actual page has a pretty straightforward description of Diana/Luna/Artemis.
Scientific Facts about the Moon and the Earth...
Moon and Earth, tied together by gravitational attraction, revolve as a double planet.
Total eclipses occur when the Moon and Earth line up perfectly with the Sun.
During a solar eclipse, the Moon passes between the Sun and Earth, hiding the Sun on a small area of Earth.
During a lunar eclipse, the full Moon moves into Earth’s shadow and is blacked out.
Because Earth spins faster than the Moon revolves, the Moon rises an average of 50 minutes later each night.
During the new phase, Moon and Sun rise and set at the same time; but, from then on, the Moon appears in different parts of the sky: in the west as it waxes larger towards gibbous, in the east as it wanes smaller.
The gravitational force of the Moon, and to a lesser extent the Sun, raises the ocean tides on Earth.
A great bulge of water is pulled up on the side of the Earth facing the Moon and held there as Earth rotates beneath the bulge, high tides occur and then because of Earth’s rotation, the tide seems to move from east to west.
None of the other planets has a moon like the Earth. Mercury and Venus have no moons at all, and Mars is orbited only by two tiny chunks of rock, each just one ten-millionth the size of Earth’s moon.
Because the Moon rotates on its axis in exactly the time it takes to orbit the Earth, it always presents the same side to us.
The Moon does not emit light. What we see is sunlight reflected from the Moon’s surface as the Moon goes through its familiar phases.
Description of Luna
I think the reason this goddess appeals to me is not the description of her, but honestly her name and association with the moon and healing. Since the boys were young we have always referred to the moon as Luna and talked about the beautiful face we see gazing down upon us. This dates back to my years as a Catholic and not just recent years.
I also value the ties the moon has to the seasons and almost all aspects of earthly happenings. It is not a myth when people say children go "crazy" around the full moon. I have seen it happen too many times to not believe it has some sort of scientific basis. lol
Anyways, what do you call your goddess? How do you think of her? How would you describe her to a child?
I have been researching because my oldest son has been asking questions about God. He feels a tie to "God" because of things children say at school. He hasn't so much been questioning now that I think of it. He has been more making statements that he feels are fact.
When I question him and try to get out his personal thoughts and feelings, it is amazing how much he really believes similar to myself without much guidance from me in spirituality at all.
Well, here are some facts I found about the moon and earth during my research as well as a link to the source. The actual page has a pretty straightforward description of Diana/Luna/Artemis.
Scientific Facts about the Moon and the Earth...
Moon and Earth, tied together by gravitational attraction, revolve as a double planet.
Total eclipses occur when the Moon and Earth line up perfectly with the Sun.
During a solar eclipse, the Moon passes between the Sun and Earth, hiding the Sun on a small area of Earth.
During a lunar eclipse, the full Moon moves into Earth’s shadow and is blacked out.
Because Earth spins faster than the Moon revolves, the Moon rises an average of 50 minutes later each night.
During the new phase, Moon and Sun rise and set at the same time; but, from then on, the Moon appears in different parts of the sky: in the west as it waxes larger towards gibbous, in the east as it wanes smaller.
The gravitational force of the Moon, and to a lesser extent the Sun, raises the ocean tides on Earth.
A great bulge of water is pulled up on the side of the Earth facing the Moon and held there as Earth rotates beneath the bulge, high tides occur and then because of Earth’s rotation, the tide seems to move from east to west.
None of the other planets has a moon like the Earth. Mercury and Venus have no moons at all, and Mars is orbited only by two tiny chunks of rock, each just one ten-millionth the size of Earth’s moon.
Because the Moon rotates on its axis in exactly the time it takes to orbit the Earth, it always presents the same side to us.
The Moon does not emit light. What we see is sunlight reflected from the Moon’s surface as the Moon goes through its familiar phases.
Description of Luna
I think the reason this goddess appeals to me is not the description of her, but honestly her name and association with the moon and healing. Since the boys were young we have always referred to the moon as Luna and talked about the beautiful face we see gazing down upon us. This dates back to my years as a Catholic and not just recent years.
I also value the ties the moon has to the seasons and almost all aspects of earthly happenings. It is not a myth when people say children go "crazy" around the full moon. I have seen it happen too many times to not believe it has some sort of scientific basis. lol
Anyways, what do you call your goddess? How do you think of her? How would you describe her to a child?
Sunday, April 11, 2010
Sometimes
Sometimes
the world comes to me in shapes and colors
I do not understand,
moving me in circles inside my heart
until I am left feeling lost and separated from the gift of love
bathed in pure sadness.
It is then I run into the forest to rest, shed my weariness, and
listen to the "song of my breath."
Each spec of nature comes to me
bringing lost pieces of my soul
until at last; wings are formed around the last hint of
darkness inside of me
and it is carried away.
Her song has blended with my being
and our spirits roll in peace.
Author Unknown
I saw this poem over at the Magic Onion and thought it was perfect to share.
Saturday, February 6, 2010
What's in a Name?
If you are in the closet so to speak about your spiritual path, what do you refer to the goddess as?
At our house, we generally talk about Mother Nature and/or the Sky King. I think that both of these terms are generic enough not to stir up any negativity if my children were to mention it to school friends, yet lend themselves to being easily connected to the Goddess when the time comes.
I ask the question because I am concerned about confusion.
T has been experiencing some talk about "God" at school. I do not want to say anything negative about what he hears, but I am not sure how to let him know that we do not necessarily believe the same way. I want him to ultimately have a choice as to his beliefs when he gets older.
How do you make sure that your little ones are experiencing spirituality in a positive way?
I want both of the boys to realize that the things we do are as important spiritually as Christmas and the such is to a Christian.
Does any of this make sense?
Since this is a new endeavor for the family we are able to lay the groundwork any way we like. I am not having to undo anything.
Anywys, I'd love to hear your thoughts on the subject.
At our house, we generally talk about Mother Nature and/or the Sky King. I think that both of these terms are generic enough not to stir up any negativity if my children were to mention it to school friends, yet lend themselves to being easily connected to the Goddess when the time comes.
I ask the question because I am concerned about confusion.
T has been experiencing some talk about "God" at school. I do not want to say anything negative about what he hears, but I am not sure how to let him know that we do not necessarily believe the same way. I want him to ultimately have a choice as to his beliefs when he gets older.
How do you make sure that your little ones are experiencing spirituality in a positive way?
I want both of the boys to realize that the things we do are as important spiritually as Christmas and the such is to a Christian.
Does any of this make sense?
Since this is a new endeavor for the family we are able to lay the groundwork any way we like. I am not having to undo anything.
Anywys, I'd love to hear your thoughts on the subject.
Saturday, October 10, 2009
Sacred Space
Do you have a place in your home that is sacred to you? A place to meditate, practice yoga, or just muse about the happenings of the day?
At this time, my house is just a mess. I think it is clean for only a couple of hours before the mess begins creeping back in. I am lacking storage space... a huge problem. I have to do something to improve upon this situation because an unorganized house tends to lead to an unorganized life.
As I begin my journey on the pagan path and revive my yoga practice (I practiced for a year and slowly let it go to the wayside.), I feel a strong desire to revamp and organize my house to mirror what I am trying to achieve in life. I just am not sure where to begin.
My goals is to do this without spending much money AND using a variety of recycled and re-purposed materials/ finds. Once I can tackle organizing my house to some degree I already have the space to create into my own little haven.
We have an upstairs playroom. It is the landing area when you reach the top of the stairs. We have recently moved many of the boys' toys and other items into their individual bedrooms. The items remaining in the room could continue to be part of the space or move into their bedrooms as well.
I am considering using an earthy shade of green for the walls... brighter than an olive but not quite the color of a granny smith apple. Things I want to include in this space
Do you have a space to call your own? What does it look like? What do you use the space for?
At this time, my house is just a mess. I think it is clean for only a couple of hours before the mess begins creeping back in. I am lacking storage space... a huge problem. I have to do something to improve upon this situation because an unorganized house tends to lead to an unorganized life.
As I begin my journey on the pagan path and revive my yoga practice (I practiced for a year and slowly let it go to the wayside.), I feel a strong desire to revamp and organize my house to mirror what I am trying to achieve in life. I just am not sure where to begin.
My goals is to do this without spending much money AND using a variety of recycled and re-purposed materials/ finds. Once I can tackle organizing my house to some degree I already have the space to create into my own little haven.
We have an upstairs playroom. It is the landing area when you reach the top of the stairs. We have recently moved many of the boys' toys and other items into their individual bedrooms. The items remaining in the room could continue to be part of the space or move into their bedrooms as well.
I am considering using an earthy shade of green for the walls... brighter than an olive but not quite the color of a granny smith apple. Things I want to include in this space
- a water fixture of some sort
- a cozy chair for reading
- a funky lamp with posable lights
- a mounted tv and dvd on the wall so that I can practice yoga and pilates
- an IPOD docking station so that I can play my favorite music
- large comfy pillows for lounging on the floor
- a small coffee table or end table for holding snacks & drinks and reading tarot cards
- & something red (I like to have red in every room of my house... my favorite color. It makes me smile.)
Do you have a space to call your own? What does it look like? What do you use the space for?
Saturday, October 3, 2009
My Journey Begins
Merry Meet.
This is my first official post on my new blog. I am beginning my Pagan journey and wanted a way to collect my thoughts, share my ideas, and get feedback from other Pagans following the path.
I will need your help on this endeavor as I am a solitary practitioner. I am also wanting my children to be included in my traditions and beliefs as much as me and my husband can agree on. He just doesn't want me to use terminology that my children could use with friends that have the potential to scare other parents off. I think he is concerned that hearing I am a pagan or using words such as magick or ritual will evoke fear in parents due to their ignorance about what pagan beliefs truly entail.
I think as the boys get older and we become closer friends with the parents of their friends he will be more comfortable and open about my beliefs. He is more than willing for me to share my thoughts with my children. He just doesn't feel that my beliefs should interfere in a negative way with their lives. To this point, I must agree.
So, I hope you will stop by often to provide me with guidance and ideas for each of the main Sabbats. I am hoping that I can use this blog as my own online Book of Shadows... a place for me to track my beliefs and traditions... a place for my children to go as they are growing up to understand the beliefs that I have.
On this note, blessed be and hope to hear from you soon.
This is my first official post on my new blog. I am beginning my Pagan journey and wanted a way to collect my thoughts, share my ideas, and get feedback from other Pagans following the path.
I will need your help on this endeavor as I am a solitary practitioner. I am also wanting my children to be included in my traditions and beliefs as much as me and my husband can agree on. He just doesn't want me to use terminology that my children could use with friends that have the potential to scare other parents off. I think he is concerned that hearing I am a pagan or using words such as magick or ritual will evoke fear in parents due to their ignorance about what pagan beliefs truly entail.
I think as the boys get older and we become closer friends with the parents of their friends he will be more comfortable and open about my beliefs. He is more than willing for me to share my thoughts with my children. He just doesn't feel that my beliefs should interfere in a negative way with their lives. To this point, I must agree.
So, I hope you will stop by often to provide me with guidance and ideas for each of the main Sabbats. I am hoping that I can use this blog as my own online Book of Shadows... a place for me to track my beliefs and traditions... a place for my children to go as they are growing up to understand the beliefs that I have.
On this note, blessed be and hope to hear from you soon.
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