The Magician is an interesting card as it is the first, in progression, where the Fool begins to use his knowledge in alchemical processes. The Magician represents the aspirations of the Adept but he is still working with worldly elements to get what he wants. Though no card is bad or good, it just is what it is, there are warnings with each card that are there to provide us with the guidance we seek from the cards.
When we see the Magician in a spread either by itself (as we draw one card) or in a spread where by which we seek the cards around the Magician for further clarification it generally is showing us that we are in a sense discovering magick be it will power, faith in prayer, or actual ritual magick to obtain the goals we want in life. As the Fool was located between Keter and Chokmak, the Magician is located between Keter and Binah. Binah on the Tree of Life is Understanding. So the Magician represents our ability to take that knowledge we were exposed to in the Fool and making meaning of it.
This is the point at which the warning label clearly flashes the yellow light in our direction. We can think of this two fold. The wise magician takes their time learning their new skills and using them appropriately. A seasoned Magician such as Gandalf or an older Meryln would come to mind when using magick appropriately. The brash magician, or hence apprentice such as in the Sorcerer's Apprentice where when left alone in the Magician's parlor creates massive chaos that he cannot control is the warning to use self-control. Knowing when to use magick and when not to use magick is key. We may wish for that new job, but knowing just how quickly to proceed is wise. One would not just quit his current job without having another one lined up if one had a family to take care. The wise magician understands the consequences of his actions be they good or bad.
The Magician like any card does depend greatly upon what the surrounding cards in the spread may be, as well as the question posed, but it is a card of self-control and study. It is the card of understanding, and not just a “I read the label”, but an in-depth understanding of knowing something inside and out before one uses it. It is the card of knowing when to use one's magick/skills and when to use another means to accomplish the goal.
The Magician represents obtaining knowledge through work/study where as the Fool represents obtaining knowledge directly from the Divine or through Divine inspiration. We can compare the two by looking at the Fool (or Divine Fool) as the Mystic, where as the the Magician is the Magus. When the Magician is pulled we can expect that we will have to work and study for our creations, they will not simply be revealed through Divine contact. We can expect that regardless the question at hand that we ourselves will create our outcome.
Questions: Do you see yourself as an alchemist experimenting with life, and how do you see the Magician? Do you see him as a manipulating elements or a co-creator of the Divine?
I have decided to do a series on the Major Arcana of the Tarot as I view them. There is no right or wrong way to interpret the deck so these will simply be the cards as I view them to help newcomers learn the deck, as well as those who are curious about their readings to understand them better. Of course, to make this a discussion I will have one single question for each card but do feel free to ask more questions if you have them.
Namaste-Anora
To me the Fool represents the start of the spiritual/magical journey. Yet, in another breath it is the connection between Wisdom (Chokmah) and the Crown (Keter) where we are already at the end. At the start of our spiritual/magickal journey we are closest to enlightenment, to spiritual awakening and yet we do not know this because of our innocence on the path. It is said that children are in this state of being on a daily basis, and perhaps that is why so many spiritual teachers in the past have used the statements of being child like in their writings and talks.
In modern day definition a fool is typically defined as a stupid person or an idiotic person. It is defined as a person who may be weak-minded or lacks judgment. It is an unfair definition that has come upon mankind in general society and may in itself be a definition that lacks judgment. For the Fool in the Tarot and spiritual world is not stupid, nor is he idiotic. Though, as he is at the start of his journey he very well may be mislead by those around him, or not have enough experience to make the best choices.
In a reading the cards all depend upon the cards around them but we can look at each one individually to understand the cards around them, as well as the card by itself. The Fool represents the start of a new journey, this could relate to your spiritual walk, lifestyle, career, or any host of “new journeys” in one's life. The Fool is always eager to begin, to dive right in so to speak and this is always a positive. It reminds us to stay open to the opportunities that life presents us. However, it also is a cautionary card because as mentioned the Fool lacks the experience of life and education. He may lack the necessary discernment needed that perhaps someone who is an adept would already posses. Keep in mind though that the Fool on the Tree of Life is located between Keter and Chokmah so it is the connection between The Crown (just below the three spheres of negative existence) and Wisdom. The Fool must trust his inner connection to the these two facets, to the Divine, to his own Divinity when making these choices. It is a card that is telling us to bravely step forward but be always aware and mindful of one's surroundings.
Question: What is does the Fool say to you? How does the Fool apply to your journey at this point in time?
I'm sorry, I've been offline for some time taking a break, but I am slowly coming back to writing. I agree that it seems the internet has greatly hurt the language of America. I know that in my own education during the 70-80's there were things I didn't learn until I studied English in college. I sat back wondering, "Why was I never taught that". I do find that OWL Purdue has a wonderful study site though and I use it often! Even I am not the expert on the English language, and I try to keep myself up to date on my own skills as well. Of course, for professional work I tend to have my spouse edit (free editing services), and then submit.
I've honestly never had an indigenous person refer to themselves or others as Ndns. What is that? And it is not the American government who asks for proof it is the Cherokee tribal offices. And yes, you are right that I want to make sure I have that card so I can legally live on tribal land if I ever so choose to do so. Currently I live in Minnesota with my husband. And I don't think I suggested that anyone was living in the "fog". I'm friends with many people who are part of the local tribes here in Minnesota and attend university with them, I am simply trying to connect the present with the past and I find nothing wrong with that.
My father however since I posted has found more information and there is documentation that one of my great great aunts and relative were committed to insane asylums because they refused to speak English and give up their tribal connections. That occurred in the mid 30's or so.
This can be a time where wee one's want to indulge in a teensy bit too many sweets. Plan ahead. Invest in snack size zip lock bags and after the pillaging is done sit down with your wee one and let them make up bags to eat throughout the weeks to come. (You can freeze chocolate for 6-12 months if stored perfectly in airtight containers to give you an estimate).
Posted in Anora Eldorath on Nov 27, 2008... modified on Oct 22, 2010
Anora Eldorath-Bio (Available on Church Website as well at)
I have been actively studying and practicing magick since 2000. I am a High Priestess (2005), a follower of the Old Ways, and an ordained minister (ULC). I am currently in graduate school, working on my master' degree in special education. It is my goal in life to create a new English anthology geared toward students with learning disabilities that contains regular grade level stories but presented in a fashion that will allow said students to access the material. My current thesis is centered on the use of graphic novels/comic books with students with learning disabilities. My bachelor's degree is in English/secondary education and I taught for five years before taking time off to work on my masters degree.
I met Awen Eldorath around 2001 through a Yahoo chat rooms/groups. At first I was very frightened of speaking with him because of the many rumors people had spread. However, once I started chatting with him, I found out what a helpful and kind spirit he truely is. Just goes to prove the saying, "Don't judge a book by its cover!". After a great deal of talking with each other throughout the years (online, phone, and in person), we realized how close we had grown. We are now officially married; special thanks to Beverly and everyone who made our marriage happen!
I have four children whom I love dearly from my first marriage. Awen and I have two lovely children of our own. I'm working on writing two children's books and two teen books to help young people understand the Craft. I am also working on a sci-fi/fantasy book, and my book on D.I.V.I.N.E.. My hobbies include learning about and practicing belly dancing, Tai Chi, and Yoga in the belief that by exercising my body and mind, I can attain a higher level of spiritual union. I am also learning Martial arts/Self-Defense from Awen, through his school Student of Life Combined Combative Arts offered every Sunday at 6pm here in Shakopee, Minnesota as well as by appointment. (All of our websites are also located on fan pages on Facebook so please feel free to look us up).
I also manage my husband's jewelry business Awen's Creations, and his Minnesota Darth Vader Impersonator business. As a stay at home mother I find that I have been blessed with the time to devote to helping my husband, and furthering my own businesses as well. I sew for my online shop Mystic Forest, as well as provide tarot readings in person and online, as well as offer tutoring both online and in person.
It is my hope that through the Cove website and our forum as well as offline work, and the inner circle S.A.I.V. we can create an interactive Councel of Elders to build a network of like-minded souls, and to work together to better ourselves and the world around us.
Blessed Be. Your Humble Servant!!
Aidpage: (Why I'm here)
I run an advice column on my personal blog helping people to understand paganism but also answering questions much in the same format as good old Anne Landers. When I heard about this site it was on my Myspace account (ladyeldorath) and I thought what a wonderful idea and a great community service project.
I didn't come on here to play "know it all", nor did I do so because I enjoy telling people what to do. Though, I admit that my teacher side, which is my nature does show through and I may at times give it to you straight but with compassion. I also have a knack for finding resources online.
Being a writer, I have a few works published on various pagan e-zines, I do tend to write my resource tips rather then just list them. So my blog formats will generally come in antedotes, summations, and so forth. Very seldom will I do just a list. I may do an annotated list but that again involves a deal of writing, which I enjoy.
As mentioned, I am an ordained minister through the ULC. I'm here as a minister to do my part in service to help others. That may be through helping them find the resources they need in their community, provide a listening ear, or help someone work through their problems online if they do not have that kind ear where they are at.
I'm not without feeling the tough times of the economy. I feel we are all feeling the same things and what an interesting time to find out this website during the start of the season when stress is at its highest. I will more than likely post inspirational writings as well to help us all get through these tough economic times and perhaps look upon the wonderful life we all have with a slightly new perspective.
Namaste-Anora
New: Tarot Readings by Anora!
I tutor online through LivePerson, but I also tutor locally.
For those who prefer a tarot reading via email please use the following link (simply press picture) and state your question, email, and name of person I should view on the PayPal payment.
This is simply here as a way for those who wish to support the Cove of Light to be able to do so. We appreciate those who wish to support us but perhaps do not need a tarot reading or other services.
That is wonderful!!! I'm so happy they'll have something for Christmas. I also had a thought, have you contacted your local churches? A lot of them have outreach programs that also have Christmas projects. Some will have church families that adopt neighborhood families providing them with baskets, etc. Another one is the Christmas Angel program but I cannot recall if that is the Salvation Army program or not. If I find anything else I'll post to my blog. Blessings. Namaste-Anora
I'm sorry to hear about your loss. I went through something similar and unfortunately there isn't a lot you can do. Even if you report him he's not a business and you gave him the monies willingly. All you can do now is search out the aid to help you get the kids winter clothing and gifts for Christmas.
The Salvation Army offers the Christmas Cheer Program For more information about any of the services below, email: Karen.Holloway@use.salvationarmy.org
I don't know what county you are in but the following website is for the Ohio Community Action Programs by county:OACCA
Well yesterday was an interesting date in reference to the Kabbalah. In the Kabbalah the numbers 10-10-10 equate to the sphere of Keter (Kether) on the Tree of Life. The most simplistic explanation of Keter is that it translates as the Crown and represents the Light. For example, in Middle Pillar rituals one envisions drawing down the spiritual Light,hence the Light of Keter. Keter is the last sphere on the Tree of Life just beneath the three negative spheres of existence. Keter is representative of Perfection. So yesterday was interesting because it was not only Sun Day but also 10-10-10.
Also, any time you have three numbers in a row it is considered a Master number. Generally is numbers 1-9, but can relate to larger numbers such as this. We almost seem to recognize something inherently special about it because of the arrangement of numbers. To our minds two numbers in a row could be random, but three numbers in a row seems more purposeful, more intentional. Similar to if a person says something three times in a row it is believed they must really mean it. Likewise the first true geometric shape is a triangle which has there sides. A dot is just dot, a line is just a line, but when you connect three lines together you get a triangle. So, one of the first geometric forms capable of holding something, and one of the first geometric forms that is something unto itself.
This is why we tend to view these sorts of days as special or somehow mystical. In theory some part of us recognizes this and that is why we view it as special or having mystical importance. Then when you consider dates they take on a special significance because it is rare, because it only happens once a year at most, and 10-10-10 only occurs once in a thousand years.
Dad House blog is from last year but offers advice to single dads on raising a teenage daughter. Helpful hints on how a dad can connect with this teen.
Family Education website has a wealth of information on raising teen girls. It's packed full of articles, first hand accounts, and professional suggestions.
Recently I responded to a thread that addressed the topic of those who were considered to be the best writers of a particular forum as well as who were considered to be the most intelligent. I looked at it the list and only saw one person that I knew, and I know quite a few. Though one could make the argument that perhaps some were slightly upset by the list because we were not on the list that was not my motivation for writing this discussion, my motivation was to promote thought. As I sat here writing my response to that particular topic my thoughts were on competition and the general nature of competition in a capitalistic free market system. My further thoughts as a teacher and parent were the effects of such competition on friendships as well as personal growth of the individual.
In my continuing education as an educator the methodologies for motivating students has changed radically since the days of the “gold star” and “blue birds” reading groups. We have realized as educators that this type of motivation does not work well. We have realized that we need to find ways to help students become intrinsically motivated. We also realize that separating our students by ability such as the old way of teaching reading did more harm than good. The good readers became better, but the poor readers stayed the same or became poorer readers. As educators began to understand this changes were made in how we teach reading, and we began to see that a mixture of students helped both. Stronger readers pulled the struggling readers up and sometimes beyond, and the strong readers still increased!
What was my reason for using an educational story? It is not much different in the world of adults. A person may not be the strongest writer on a forum but that in no sense of the word reflects upon their intelligence. I feel that perhaps this stigma though could cause a person to write less, and perhaps eventually stop participating. That does not seem to be beneficial for anyone. I also feel that this type of competition can lead to hurt feelings and loss of friendships. And it does not seem to be of benefit for individual growth. I believe we need to be very careful of our choice of words and think about their effect on others. Though we should motivate our friends and others to do their best, certain buzz words can make them feel horrible about themselves and this is not something that does the individual any benefit.
It is one thing to offer up suggestions in private to help friends grow; it is another to create a “list”. This sort of list or style of listing makes me think of the slam books so many junior high school students keep saying who is “in” and who is “out”. There is a lovely feature on the particular forum mentioned that allows us to email friends topics we find interesting or feel are worth the view, I feel this cuts down on any competition and hurt feelings.
What are your feelings on this topic? Can competition such as this be harmful to friendships and the growth of the person?
Children are special beings given to us with permission. It is our duty to be good stewards of our charges and to not hamper, hinder, or ruin their spirits while in our care. This does not mean to allow one's child to go without discipline, teaching, and so forth, but it does mean to guide and not to live through, and to let go when the time comes.
I'm having issues posting links but as soon as I am able to post again I'll try to locate agencies. The website I gave you will have a list if you type in your city and state though. That is at least a start.
Posted in butterfly22 on Sep 22, 2010... modified on Sep 22, 2010
Help-
The following link is a list of agencies near you that provide help with rent. I'd contact one of them to see if they can help you with this month's rent. In the future I'd leave such large amounts of cash at home when you are out to do laundry. There is no need to carry such cash, and all rental agencies that I've worked with (landlords) will accept money orders. When you get your funds for rent you should immeadiately put them into a money order for rent and address it to the rental agency before leaving the bank or place where you get your money orders done.
I know it's a difficult time. I've been unemployed for five years now and have been trying to do things online and locally to earn extra monies as living on one income can be very tight at times. However, something that has gotten me through these trials is the knowledge in I am right where I need to be. There is purpose to my experience be it to benefit myself or benefit another.
The online pages such as adsense, ptc, writing sites, and the like are all slow to pay but they can earn a bit of spending cash if done religiously over time. Unfortunately there is no "quick money" route. It just takes time. I agree with job hunting and to keep putting forth your resume and job applications. Something is bound to come up. And it very well mean changing career paths. However, that may very well be a good thing. I know I'm facing that right now thinking that I may return to a previous career track until my thesis is over with when I can begin job hunting at the college level.
It was no problem hun. We've a friend going over in a few months, one just got back from Afghanistan, and my husband did his time over in Koseva before being stationed in Germany. You are all in our thoughts daily and we will do what we can for our fellow men and women. Have a wonderful day.
I was just reading up on this and it states that age can be waived so long as there is not more than a 40 year age difference between child and adult. I would have them petition a waiver because it states for international adoptions of Croation children that if there are Croation parents waiting to adopt that they will be given priority over out of country adoptions. So, there may be a chance for them to adopt. : ) Call the minstry and ask them yourself to verify if this is still correct.
You are in our prayers hun! If you need help finding addresses locally, phone numbers, or such please drop me a note. I'm online every day save my weekends so I will get back to you.
Have they considered adoption Norsag? There are so many children in your part of the world that need good loving parents. I can understand the desire to have a child of one's own, but I also understand that there are so many children out there in the world who want loving mommies and daddies. I'd check into that route first before AI.
I actually used to hate this saying growing up, but there is a great truth in it. If someone is trying to help you because you asked for help it is not polite to mock them because they are helping in the way they can help. Sure, during my struggles with monies recently I wanted very much to get that cash in hand. I never did, but things worked out via another blessing. However, I never looked at those trying to help and said "You're not helping me". I told them thanks for their help and continued to speak with them.
You see, some of the best help we can receive as members of the human race is emotional support and guidance during our mundane struggles. In the end, even with all the monies and mundane comforts in the world people are empty without friends, support, and those things that make us part of the cosmic spiritual universe. I may not be able to provide everyone who asks me with monies, I can barely get paid for doing tutoring and tarot readings but I can offer guidance, emotional support, and friendship. It is my hope that people will accept me for what I can give, and not reject me for what I cannot give.
Hi my name is Michelle Lamb. MY family has been in hardship since 2008 I have a loving husband and three beautiful girls 13, 12, 10. My husband and I both use to be employed through Sears Holdings, bu... see full post
