Creation, Destruction and the Endless Cycle

Nothing can be born unless something else dies first.  A new way of life can't born without the end of the old. A parent is born from the end of a childless life.  A building is born when the old one is torn down.  A spouse is born from the end of being single.  New plant life comes from the ash and decay of dead plants that lived before. All creation comes from destruction, and this cycle happens over and over again.  That is simply part of life.

Why is this on my mind?  This evening I burned the back pasture first under the watchful gaze of the setting sun and then the glory of the rising full moon. The dead grasses burned quickly leaving behind the new green growth with not even a singe to mar it. Those of us who live close to the Earth understand the need for intentional burns.  Destroying the old makes the ground more fertile for the growing new plants as well as greatly lessens the risk of wildfire by eliminating the quick-burning tinder. Intentional burns are simply a necessary part of land stewardship. 

Over the years, I have lived in the woods, small towns, a city of over three million people and now in the ridge lands.  I have discovered that people who live in cities or simply don't think about the land generally think I'm nuts if I mention burning the property.  Too many people today have become so divorced from nature that they don't comprehend what it needed to best care for it or, even sadder, they just don't care. The town I live beside is one of those that is ripping up trees and bulldozing through land as quickly as possible.  It breaks my heart every time I see this.  The destroyed trees aren't even allowed to be sold or given for firewood.  They are chopped down and burned acres at a time.

Returning here to my hometown and witnessing this destructive and cavalier behavior towards the land was one of the most difficult parts about moving back. This treatment towards that which sustains us has only made me more determined to help people find some sort of connection to their place and learn to care for it. I have now become the person trying to convince others that we need to plant trees and native flora. Usually, I am ignored, but just enough people hear me to make my continued efforts worth it.

I have learned over the years that the understanding of this creation - destruction - creation cycle tends to be tied to one's religious views.  Not specific religion, but the view.  I'm not worried about what faith you follow. Any of them can be tied to living close to the Earth.  I simply ask that you look at your faith from the perspective of caring for all that was created.  No matter what God or Goddess you follow, they created all that is around us. Perhaps you believe in none. If anything, that gives even more cause to live close to the natural world. It was all here before us.  Yes, it is here to help us, but that does not mean we can be careless stewards.  After all, we have to have fertile land to grow our crops, clean water for our bodies, and unpolluted air to breathe.  Destroying our world only harms ourselves. Then we are right back in that cycle of destruction and creation.  Do we really want to be that which is destroyed to allow the land to live?  Of course not!

As we go into spring, let us all take a closer look at our world around us.  Grow something, even if just in a pot.  Put out a bird feeder and watch to see who all shows up to eat.  Spend some time in a park.  Do anything to get familiar with the land around you.  Our world cannot survive if we only take.  We must also give back. To do that responsibly, we need to learn about our home.  I'm not saying you have to start with a major undertaking.  Even a small step is still a step forward.  Imagine if everyone took small steps what a difference it would make!

www.facebook.com/whispersfromtheearth

Following the Deer Trods - Working with Elen of the Ways

Working with Elen of the Ways is not an easy journey.  It is for those who wish to look deeper into the world around them and those who are willing to walk a path with few others. It is a path of the awenydd.  As I am always willing to learn more about the old ways of living close to the earth and honoring the spirit of nature, so I was excited to get a review copy of the Shaman Pathways title Following the Deer Trods. 

Although there is a very short bit early on that shows a strong dislike to Christianity, this book is incredibly valuable.  How often do we pass the blame for our mistakes on to someone else? It happens, even if we try not to do it.  It is simply a part of our culture. By not accepting our mistakes we are actually doing ourselves a disservice.  How can we possibly learn if we don't make mistakes? This is simply the first of the lessons explored in this book. Not quite a quarter of the way into the book and already we are given incredible exercises.  How often have you tried to really and truly listen? I mean listening in a way that removes our own preconceptions and leaves our minds truly open and accepting... Here is just another example of the value I discovered in this book.

This truly is a book about working and growing close to the earth. A seemingly single yet profound part of this is a more naturalistic view of the elements. We are all familiar with the standard earth, air, fire and water.  Yet how often do we think of them in terms of water going through the full cycle, or earth as the molecules to help growth emerging from the decay of that which has died?  Most of us don't very often, if at all.

Normally when I read one of these short books from the different Moon Books series I think of it as a lovely introduction or a handy book for reference.  This entry goes far beyond that expectation.  Here is a book that is short, yet far from a quick read.  It is worthy of going back to read over and over again, both for the incredible exercises and because as you progress along your own path, whatever that may be, you will be able to gain even more from the insights within.  Whether you work closely with Elen or just want her help to grow a deeper, more naturalistic practice, you will find great value in this book.  Highly recommended.

http://www.moon-books.net/books/shaman-pathways-following-deer-trods

Pagan Portals: Kitchen Witchcraft - a Review

I received a copy of this delightful little book so that I could write an honest review. These days I am starting to teach again and so I am on the lookout for books that could be helpful either in my studies or for the beginners coming my way. I truly enjoyed this little gem. It will be a lovely quick reference book for myself and a great book for the beginner.

For those who are new to any type of paganism or who are simply looking to expand their spiritual awareness, I feel it is important to have a wide variety of perspectives.  This is one I highly recommend to be a part of this spectrum. It has the basics covered in nice little lists that are easy to understand, and it has the great focus on the natural aspect.  That part alone leads me to suggest it may be good for a person who is interested in growing their spiritual practice towards being more in tune with nature. I say this meaning non-pagans who are simply open-minded & spiritual.  

I will say, as great as this book is, it should not be considered a book for the absolute beginner.  For example, it has a short section on spells, but it does not explain what a "spell" actually is or how it works.  I have come to view beginners books with an eye towards my fiance.  If I handed him this book, would he understand all that is explained here?  In this case, the answer is - not quite.  There are sections where basic information is assumed and certain things really need some explanation, but none is given. 

Overall, I would say this is a great book. It is full of useful information & has a friendly way of speaking to the reader.The meditations inside are perfect for a beginner and the lists are comprehensive yet not overly long.  This book is well suited for a variety of audience and a perfect

glimpse into the world of Kitchen Witchery. Yet another excellent addition to the Pagan Portals collection.

http://www.moon-books.net/books/pagan-portals-kitchen-witchcraft

The Woven Word - a Review

I was given a copy of this book to read and I was quite excited about it. I love to write invocations and other liturgy, so I was hoping to find some inspiration in this book.  I found the inspiration I was seeking and so mch more.

In the early pages there is a quote that perfectly sums this book up: Mahatma Gandhi said, “Carefully watch your thoughts, for they become your words. Manage and watch your words, for they will become your actions.”  So often this is forgotten by people when writing for rituals. I'm sure we all been in a ritual where one of the speakers says words that make us all cringe and wonder what sort of unintended effect they will create. Before beginning with the writings, the author takes plenty of time explaining this point as well as all other aspects that need to be kept in mind when writing ritual works. After all, writing is one thing but writing words of power is something else entirely.  

Included are so many wonderful chants and invocations for just about any circumstance you can think of.  All the standard parts of pagan ritual are included, as well as some not-so-standard.  Each chapter is not only full of writings, but has a short explanation of the type. About midway into the book, there is a section on meditations and journeys. Some are written in the more standard method, while others are more poetic.  These are so well written, I am already planning to use some in my Spirituality group. The typical rites of passage are covered, and in the same lovely way as all the other situations.  So often these rites are written in a very serious (and sometimes quite dry) way. The examples here are much more emotional and have the feel of something that people would truly enjoy and appreciate.  I generally dislike these rites when I find them written, but I was quite pleased with this section.A number of full rituals for other circumstances are included. I  was very pleased with the well-compiled section of correspondences.  It was clear yet full of more information than typically found in such a chapter.

When I first was sent this book, I had assumed it would be a somewhat useful book that may give me a bit of help in writing my own liturgy, something I am striving to get better at. I admit that while I was interested, I wasn't overly excited and I did put this review off in favor of some other books.  Now I wish I had opened this as soon as I received it.  I highly recommend The Woven Word to anyone who writes rituals or is seeking devotions to deepen their practice.  It is full of excellent material, highly inspirational and quite well-written.  I would go so far as to say this book belongs on the bookshelf of every pagan group and solitary.  There is so much in here I wish I'd had access to decades ago.  It would have made the development of my personal practice go so much better. There is no "junk" to fill out the pages, only useful information or beautifully written liturgy. This is certainly one of the best books I have read put out by Moon Books so far.  An absolute treasure.

http://www.moon-books.net/books/woven-word

Walking Away Can Take the Greatest Courage

How often do we hear that we are supposed to stand and fight? If someone discriminates against us, if we are bullied, if we are surrounded by cruel people, if we are in a situation that bothers us on a regular basis and so on.  No matter what is going on, we are told to stand and fight. otherwise we are a wimp, a wuss or a variety of other awful names. What if we didn't hold our ground? What if we just said "F*@# it" and walked away?  Is that really such a bad thing?

My regular readers know I have been in a leadership position at my place of worship for some time.  At first it was wonderful! I truly enjoy helping in such a way and that is why I am working towards ordination as Interfaith Clergy.  Sadly, for every person who was happy to have me leading in this way, there was another who had serious issue with it.  At first, they were quietly grumbling to each other. Lately it became a fight.  Daily.  I spent months fighting this and finally, a few days ago, I decided to walk away. No warning.  I just sent out a notice of resignation.

Some people think they won and got rid of me. Oh how happy they are! The knowing smirks, the laughter...  but that's ok.  I fought long and loud enough that I got the changes I wanted.  So, I quit.  This was not an easy decision.  Just like most of you, I have heard for all my life all the sayings about standing my ground, etc.  I simply ignored them.  Yes, I will still get those stupid little smirks directed at me for some time, but I am strong enough to ignore them.  The important thing here is that I got everything I wanted.

Does that seem strange?  Perhaps. Yet it's the absolute truth.  I got everything I wanted there and most importantly, I am doing what is best for myself. In the end, that's what we have to do. It is so easy to focus on everyone else and their wants and needs.  Women especially fall into that trap.  We try to help everyone else and make them happy often to the detriment of ourselves. I have done that for most of my life, but not long ago i realized I can't do that. I have a variety of disabling health issues that sap my energy and leave me in constant pain.  I fight it so that it's not always obvious even if it leaves me feeling worse. That comes from having it for most of my life. These days it's getting harder to hide. Spending plenty of time in reflection helped me see I have to stop.  I have to do what is best for me.

The question is... do I regret resigning? No. Not in the least.  I made more of a difference than people see right now, but I set into motion some great things that I am proud of. That was my goal.  Since resigning I feel so much better! Stress gets my body in even worse shape and the sudden removal of my largest source of stress has been incredibly good for me.  What's the moral of this story? Do what you need for yourself! There's nothing wrong with helping others, but don't do it to the point of causing your own self harm.  Then you aren't any good to anyone!

Keep safe in this winter weather and take care of yourselves!

The Awen Alone - a Review

My first thoughts upon reading this book were that I appreciated the lyrical style chosen for the opening.  I was grateful to be given this book to review and this beginning certainly gave me hopes that I would enjoy it. The author brings a lovely view that is not only applicable to those on the Druid path, but anyone who wishes to be more in tune with nature. I admit, I was getting great ideas for my next Earth Day program while reading.

This is a lovely, although short, book.  It is meant as a guide to Druidry but as much as I enjoyed it, that is not the audience I would target. I would instead say this is a good read for someone who is either interested specifically in dipping their toes in Druidry or is simply a seeked wanting to find out bits more of different branches of Paganism.  I would also suggest that the first half would be of great benefit to those who are imply spiritual individuals seeking a deeper connection to nature.  The way of looking at things and our interconnectedness with all else is truly inspiring.

The one thing I wasn't so happy with was the fact it has a strong Wiccan feel in the ritual  and liturgy half.  This is why I don't consider it a guide to Druidry.  That doesn't mean it isn't a good book. Simply be aware of exactly what you are reading. I will say the chapter on Seasonal Rites is excellent for anyone following an earth-centered path, or simply wanting to get in tune with nature. It has excellent suggestions for seasonal practices, meditations, and pathworking. The section on Creating Your Own Path is also full of useful ideas.  Overall, I would say this book is a good selection to have on your shelf. It is packed with inspiration that will be a benefit when trying to create a stronger spiritual practice tied to the Earth and Her cycles.

http://www.moon-books.net/books/pagan-portals-awen-alone

Journey to the Dark Goddess

We all reach a point in our lives when we know we are not on the right path.  Maybe we are dealing with self-destructive behavior like smoking, drinking or being around harmful people.  Perhaps we are depressed, angry or constantly feeling on edge.  Of course, the situation may not be so drastic. We could simply be at a point where we know it is time to do some deep inner work to make our lives better.  Whatever the reason, we all have a time when it is time to descend into the Underworld.  Now is when we call to the Dark Goddess.

I was given a book titled Journey to the Dark Goddess to review at the same time that I felt ready to work with Her.  You gotta love the Universe's timing!  I will review it at the bottom of this, but for now I'll just say it was an excellent book and perfect for this journey. The past few months I have been dealing with my journey into the Underworld, although I didn't recognize it as such at the time.  I suppose that is often the way. It is only upon looking backward that we see where our path has been leading us. My path has so gradually become darker that I didn't really notice it.  Sort of like when we were a child happily playing outside as long as possible, reveling in the magic of liminal times that the encroaching dusk allows us to taste.  Suddenly we realize that it's so dark we can hardly see our hands in front of our eyes. That is where I found myself - helplessly peering in the dark for my way.

For the past year I have had an odd fascination with Inanna, the Sumerian Queen of Heaven and Earth.  I had no idea where this had come from, but no matter how much I tried to set it aside for a later time it would keep popping up.  The Queen has quite a sly smile, especially when you finally accept She isn't going anywhere until you acknowledge Her. Then the pieces start to come together. Her images.  Her stories.  Her mysteries... Her descent into the Underworld. Aaahh...  Now I get it.  And suddenly I can see a path before me.

So where do you go from here? Once that siren call wraps around you there is no way to move forward until you fully acknowledge what it is asking of you. It is not an easy journey.  It is one you mostly have to undertake alone. That is not a reason to fear it though.  This solitary journey means you can go at your own pace.  Take the time you need for each step.  That is the only way to truly do such a thing and make it through successfully.

Where am I now?  I'm still early in the journey. I am no longer afraid.  Apprehensive, yes, but not afraid.  If I reach a point where I feel I can't take another step I can simply raise my head and there is the gentle gaze of Goddess, encouraging me to keep moving.  This is a journey alone, but a journey of strength.  Each step you leave something behind as some part of you dies.  Eventually you will realize that you are moving swifter and standing taller. Suddenly it all makes sense. After all, there is no longer as much weighing you down.

Now on to the book...
The timing for the opportunity to review this couldn't have been more perfect. Even better, it truly is all that it claims to be. As soon as you start to read, you feel as though you are getting ready for a true adventure.  She prepares you with tips, amazing insights, and hands you a few ways this journey may happen.  I very much appreciated the stories from different Goddess perspectives.

One of the most important statements within this book is "in entering the Underworld at all, some part of us has to die."  So true.  That gets to the heart of the matter. This book is a manual for how to let that which no longer serves to die so that the reader may emerge reborn.  So often in books of this nature there are silly little rituals that seem to be in a book more to make it appear more professional than for any actual assistance to the reader.  Here I found exceptions.  The rituals to prepare yourself are exercises in looking within to figure out why you are at this point and where your journey needs to go.  I have a tendency to skip them, but this is a rare occasion where I did not. It was a wise decision as those rituals helped me to gain insight that I truly needed, even if I wasn't willing to go all the way through this yet. They are of such value I even intend to use them in my Women's Spirituality group.

In truth, this book is a map.  It is a literary guide to the descent.  It does not paint it as a pretty little picture.  The author makes sure you understand this is something that will strip you down to your very core.  She also makes sure you understand that the pain and fear is worth it.  Pick up this guide.  Take those first steps.  Just understand this is not something you will skim.  It is the beginning of living a new life of authenticity. All it takes is a moment of courage and a one word answer....

"Yes"


http://www.moon-books.net/books/journey-to-the-dark-goddess

New Beginnings Really Are Possible

Here we are at the beginning of another year of light.  The sun rose again.  The days are getting longer now.  The ball has dropped and we get to remember to put 2015 on everything.  Regardless of it you consider the new year the Winter Solstice or January 1st, we are in a new year. New year means the perfect time for new beginnings!

We are all being inundated with commercials, facebook posts, and people talking about new year's resolutions.  It seems like you can't get away from the talk no matter how hard you try. Yet most people fail to keep their resolutions. Perhaps that is simply from the pressure. Myself, I don't believe in the standard resolution.  Instead I think of the new year as a time of transition into a new life.  

The first month I spend in reflection of what from the past year I need to let go of so that I can move forward to a better life.  After all, how can you make a change if you don't first determine the true cause of an issue?  For example - I had a friend a few years ago who wanted to quit smoking but no matter what she tried, it never worked. One year she chose it as her resolution and was determined it would be the year she was successful. I asked her why she smoked.  At first she looks at me like I was crazy, but I convinced her to really think about it.  Finally we found the root of the issue.  She smoked when she was stressed, but not all stress.  She only felt the intense need to light up when she felt like she was suppressing her true self.  She was a naturally outgoing artsy type person with a very unique style. Every time she tried to hide that true self she had to smoke. She never had success quitting because she never knew the cause of her addiction. Once we found out the cause, she was able to successfully quit.

This is why I don't make resolutions.  I instead work on reflection. This year I did a lot of thinking about a bad situation I removed myself from last year.  There was a lot of negativity, broken trust, and false rumors.  I admit, it had been hard to find closure.  This had been a major part of my life for years and it had connected me to most of my friends since moving to the area. This past Solstice I asked for help in finally gaining the closure I needed and resolving this situation in the best way possible for myself. Suddenly I was surrounded with proof that worked to ease my mind regarding my decision to walk away.  Some concerns I had about this old part of my life were confirmed unfortunately and suddenly other people came forward with similar stories.  Everyone had been keeping silent for fear that they would not be believed or negative repercussions. All of this helped me gain the closure I needed.  No more "what if"s rolling through my mind.  No more uncertainties about whether I really did see and hear what I thought I had.  Now I KNEW with every part of myself I did the right thing. And so that door is closed...

... and another one is opened.  I can't know what all the future holds, but the important thing is that I am ready for that future. As long as I was holding on the that other door I couldn't fully move on. This time of new year's reflection will allow amazing things to happen to me.  And so... on to a wonderful new beginning!!

Psychic & Spiritual Awareness Manual - a Review

When the option to review The Psychic & Spiritual Awareness Manual: a guide to DIY enlightenment came out, I was quite curious.  It sounded like something I would enjoy being full of exercises to help develop a person's psychic skills.  At the beginning, I admit I wasn't overly impressed.  However, I was given a copy in exchange for an honest review so I continued on.

As I read, I felt like the material covered was pretty basic.  Honestly, it felt like I had read it many times before.  That being said, if this subject is something new to the reader, then this book would be good to consolidate a lot of those basic teachings. It is full of exercises, again, all meant for the beginner. It does cover a large range of subjects such as color therapy, the aura, crystal energy and more.

There isn't much I can really say about this book.  It's short, simple and to the point.  Clearly it is designed for someone new to energy work or spiritualism.  There is a chapter on How to Run a Circle, but I feel if someone is beginner enough to require this book, then they should not be running a circle.  It's what I would consider a survey book designed to give students a glimpse at the subject or a quick reference book.  It's not bad, but written for a limited audience.

http://www.6th-books.com/books/psychic-spiritual-awareness-manual