Writing this Annual Cures Newsletter each year has become a labor of love, growing out of my own desire to know what to do, how to do it, and how best to assist my students and clients. Each year I compare several reports provided by other practitioners around the world. Some are quite basic and others are wonderfully rich in history and in the metaphysical underpinnings that give meaning to why we do, what we do.

All master practitioners emphasize that first and foremost a home or office must have good feng shui. Just doing Annual Cures will do little to help if the home or office is a feng shui disaster.

There are a lot of variables to consider, primarily your innate constitution for handling health stressors, your karma with money that enable you to handle what could be financially challenging times, your relationship harmony based on how well you have resolved your relationship issues, and so forth. Good feng shui won’t make some one of low IQ a genius, but good feng shui will increase every student’s ability proportionate to their capability.

Predictions can be made to what will generally effect the populace at large, but what kind of a year you will have is unique to you and can be examined based on your birth information. This is something I have been doing for 35 years with Western Astrology. Others trained in Vedic Astrology, Four Pillars of Destiny, and other systems of analysis can also describe your future trends. As all systems are glimpses into the holographic whole, the guidance and insights should be similar in accordance to the skill of the reader.

When I do Future Forecasts, I think of it as similar to a Road Map indicating road conditions. If there is a ‘bumpy’ stretch ahead, it is best to slow down to avoid ‘bottoming out’ and putting a hole in our gas tank; or when conditions are favorable, we can put ‘petal to the metal’ and zoom effortless and undeterred along our merry way. The concept is: forewarned is forearmed – to go with the flow as co-creator of your destiny, instead of bouncing along totally unaware and out of control.

Solar and Lunar Calendars

Countries in the Orient use two calendars. The Lunar Calendar is used for ceremonial purposes and determining the Animal Sign of the year. It is this Lunar New Year which you are all familiar with from placemats at your favorite Chinese restaurant. This calendar begins on the second New Moon after the Winter Solstice, which this year falls on January 26 And then there is the Solar Calendar.

It is the Solar Calendar which is used in Xuan Kong (Time-Space) Feng Shui, commonly referred to as Flying Star (Fe Xing) Feng Shui, that determines the important feng shui adjustments that are needed as the earth’s magnetic field shifts at the beginning of each Spring.

The Chinese Solar New Year begins in the Orient on Feb. 3 or 4. It is this day that is considered the beginning of Spring as it is about mid-point between the Winter Solstice and the Spring Equinox.

2009 – Year of the Yin Earth Cow
How Now, Brown Cow

Some call it the Year of the Ox, but technically, as this is a “yin” year, Cow is a more appropriate designation. Either way, the Ox or Cow is the sign of prosperity through fortitude and hard work. It is also the sign of the born leader, being quite dependable and possessing an innate ability to achieve great things. As one might guess, such people are dependable, calm, and modest. Like their animal namesake, the Ox is unswervingly patient, tireless in their work, and capable of enduring any amount of hardship without complaint. They engage all the trials of the whole world and seek solutions for them. These people are extremely intelligent, speak little and, when necessary, are articulate and eloquent.

Sound familiar? That’s right, Barack Obama is an Ox. He was born in 1961, the Year of the Metal Ox. As the second animal sign in the Chinese 12-sign system, Oxen are diligent, stoic, and hard working – an abundant harvest reflects one’s conscientious effort.

Of course not all Animal Signs are compatible with the Ox, especially those born in Goat, Dragon, and Dog years. Individuals born during these years are especially advised, and everyone in general, to wear an amulet featuring a Pi Yao charm on a necklace, key chain, or hanging from your rearview mirror. Though you can get specific Animal Sign charms for your particular year, a Pi Yao is the best way to go, as Pi Yaos are loyal and will sacrifice themselves to protect the well-being of their owner.

Xuan Kong Feng Shui – 2009
Annual Number 9

There are many approaches to feng shui. The first and most important is evaluation of the Landforms and Chi Flow to, through, and around a place. This, in fact, is the subject of my book, Choose the Best House for You: The Feng Shui Checklist.

Many of you are familiar with the Bagua as a method of ‘mapping’ the home or office by designating certain areas as being a focal point for Abundance, Relationship, Career, and so forth – what is often referred to as the Eight Aspirations. In this system we place various items that symbolize these aspirations.

A more traditional approach uses a compass to determine the magnetic field of a location as seen in cycles of 20-Year Periods. There are nine periods equalling 180 years. Since Feb. 5, 2004, we are now in Period 8.

Within each of these 20-Year Periods, each year is also governed by an energetic pattern referred to as the Annual Number. The Annual Number for 2009 is 9. The #9 determines how the other numbers, representing various Elemental types of energy, or Qi, ‘fly’ according to the energetic sequence described by the Lo Shu Magic Square (above). It is these numbers, representing the Five Elements – Wu Xing that determines which areas of the house may or may not be enjoying good fortune.

Maintaining Balance

Consider if you were to weigh something on a balance scale with one side being heavier than the other. You add a little counterbalance to one side or another and eventually bring the scale to equilibrium. Or like a shower faucet, if the water flow is too hot, add a little cold until it is just right.

Now comes the Annual Elementals with some bringing positive, and others bringing negative, influences. In some cases the balance is unaffected, and in some the balance is tilted radically askew. It is this need to maintain equilibrium that dictates which remedies to apply to rebalance the negative tilt, and which enhancers should be considered to maximize the auspicious potentials.

By analyzing where these energies fall, using the Creative, Reductive, or Controlling Cycles according to Five-Element Theory, we can neutralize the negative energies and enhance the positive ones. Below is a description of what to do.

NOTE: As feng shui was developed by the Chinese over thousands of year, many of the solutions have Asian themes. However, you may substitute other items that you feel will achieve the same results.

It should also be understood that as feng shui has traveled from China to many new locales, different practitioners have developed differing methodologies to achieve harmonious results. Having learned their methods in some isolation from other practitioners, some feng shui experts may sound authoritarian about ‘how it should be done.’

Consequently, we in the west have a wonderful opportunity to hear what all teachers have to say, and to choose what we experience as working best for us. Try to be flexible during your learning process, do what resonates with your sensibilities, and do not follow any one method blindly. Most important, observe the results and modify accordingly.

Empower Your Cures and Enhancements

I am sure many of you reading this are already quite evolved in your own spiritual cultivation and maturity, and are quite capable to bless and energize your cures and enhancements by either placing on your home alter, or by doing the Three Secret Reinforcements of mantra, mudra, and visualization.

You can also energize each item by holding the item in the palm of one hand with the palm of your dominant hand over the item. Tune in, recite a prayer or blessing to program the item to fulfill its purpose. Or, as they say, to Anchor your Intention. Wait until you feel the item enliven with the transference of Qi, then respectfully place the item in the appropriate location.

Cleanse or Dispose of Old Cures

Before the beginning of the Solar New Year on Feb. 4, cleanse all cures, such as Wu Lus (gourds), Pi Yaos (dragon-headed four-leggeds), Wind Chimes, and many of the money cures used the previous year. There are some practitioners who suggest all cures used the previous year should be disposed of, while others feel this is a bit extreme. Almost all practitioners agree, however, that it is best to completely dispose of Bagua Mirrors and Salt Water Cures (described below) as they are full of negative energy.

Some authorities suggest previous year cures should be cleansed by leaving them exposed to the Full Moon over night, others place them in direct sunlight for at least four hours. Some say you should sprinkle the previous year’s cures with Sea Salt and then rinse off. Clean according to your tradition.

Installing Cures

Once items are cleansed, they should be put in their new positions by Feb. 4. Some people put their cures into place before Feb. 4, but anytime during the year is better than not at all. Once cures are in place, it is said that it takes about a month for them to absorb any negative energy being generated by the negative numbers and to enjoy the benefits of the enhancements put into place to enhance the positive numbers.

But whatever you do, don’t worry if your bed, front door, or office are in those areas considered “afflicted” this year. By placing your feng shui cures and enhancements in the right Sectors, you will bring balance to your home or office, so you can continue to enjoy good health, great prosperity, and relationship harmony.

However, if after the Annual Cures are in place, you begin to experience difficulties regarding finances, health, relationships, or any other area of life, remove, readjust, or add additional cures according to the suggested placement, and then observe again. Flying Star cures for the house are done once. Annual Cures are for short term results and might need adjusting.

Note: Consulting with a professional feng shui practitioner may be beneficial to evaluate the outside Landforms and the Flying Star number combinations which were in effect when the home or business was built.

Work With Your Floor Plan and Use an Accurate Compass
As you read through the following recommendations, it may be easier to do so with an accurate floor plan of you home or office in front of you. You can divide the floor plan using the traditional 9-Box Grid method or the 8-Spoked Wheel method preferred by many Hong Kong masters. Whether using the Grid or Pie method, mark each sector with the appropriate compass direction, and then fill in the recommendations.

If you do not own a traditional lou pan (feng shui compass), any good compass will do that has ALL 360º clearly indicated. (Avoid compasses with degrees in 2º or 5º increments, or that just have the letters of the directions.

The illustration above uses the 8-Spoked Wheel method and is an example you might want to follow. This will assist you in making your shopping list. Then, when you gather your remedies, you will have a clear reminder as to where the cures and enhancers should be placed.

Note: Cures listed are suggested choices. Use one or more. If you use one with no apparent result, add another. Cures can be put in the appropriate compass direction of the house, and or in the corresponding corner of any room, especially in one’s office.

Feng Shui Cures and Enhancements for 2009
First, we will look at the inauspicious Stars which require cures to neutralize their potentially negative influences and which, if possible, you do not want to disturb with activity. If you can use another room, it is advised. If you need to use any of these areas, don’t worry! Just be sure to put the suggested cures into place and observe results, making appropriate adjustments as needed.

K’un – 2 Black Earth in the West
“Star of Illness”

The first difficult number (Element) that needs reducing is the 2 Black Earth which this year is found West sector of the house. The #2 makes this an area of potential illness (especially stomach ailments), and misfortune in 2009. So take extra care to neutralize the #2’s potentially malicious influence.

As with 5 Yellow mentioned next, it is best if you do not have to use this area of the home. If you do have to use this area, be sure to use the cures listed below to neutralize their negative influences. If you are among the few lucky ones with a bathroom, utility room, or lesser used room in the West, do not be concerned – no cure is needed.

Wu Wang – 5 Yellow Earth in North
“Star of Misfortune”

With Annual Star 9 in the Center this year, 5 Yellow (Wu Wang), considered malicious as it is not associated with a gender or trigram, will fly to the North. If possible, do not use any room in the North. As Fire feeds Earth, if you have a fireplace in the North, it is advisable to avoid using it during 2009. If there is a bed or desk in this sector of the home or room, consider if you can move the bed or desk to a better sector. Though a bathroom, utility room, or an infrequently used guest room in the North mitigates the 5 Yellow’s detrimental nature, placing cures are still recommended.

The following cures are recommended to protect prosperity, relationships and health: A 6-Tube Wind Chime is placed wherever the 5 Yellow is found, as ‘moving’ Metal reduces the negative effects of the 5 Yellow Earth. You can also place a brass Five Element Pagoda in this area filled with earth taken from near the home or office to lock the negative Earth energy up. Also place round objects.

Other additional cures also recommended for controlling the negative influences of both 5 Yellow Earth and 2 Black Earth are as follows:

Cures for 2 Black and 5 Yellow:

• In both the West and in the North, 6-Coins tied together with a red cord can be used to weaken #2 and #5 and to protect wealth, especially if this is the front door. A Solid Brass Ingot, Brass Dragons, or a metal statue of Kuan Kung, a Wealth God, can also be placed in either West or North to protect prosperity.
• If the #2 or #5 is in a bedroom, a small heavy Brass Wu Lu can also be placed next to the bed. The Wu Lu is nicknamed ‘the Giver of Life.’
• Many practitioners feel the Salt Water Cure is the most effective cure for #2 and #5. Some practitioners use an open bucket while others suggest a 12 to 16 oz. urn with a perforated covering. Which ever you choose, fill it 2/3 with rock salt and place 6 copper coins and a silver coin (optional) on top (real copper and silver, not alloys). Then fill the urn with water. If you use a cover, either gauze or plastic wrap, secure it with rubber band or twine, and then poke holes in the cover large enough to allow the urn or bucket to breathe, and yet not evaporate too rapidly. At the end of the year this cure, urn, salt, coins and water should be disposed of by placing the old materials in a sack and dumping them in the trash. New materials should always be obtained for the current year’s use. Remember, one Salt Water Cure in the West and North.
• If the front door is in either the East or North, a Bagua Mirror should be hung outside above the door to deflect the incoming Sha (killing) Qi. Other objects of metal, especially round in shape or metallic colors, should be placed inside near the front door. Oil the hinges and avoid slamming the door.
• As the Fire Element enhances Earth, avoid using bright lights, red colors, burning candles, or playing loud music. If there are already red colors in this area, you can leave them, but add more Metal images or objects to maintain balance.
• If you do have to work outside the home in either the West or North, hang a 6-Tube Wind Chime between that area and the house. If you are working on a larger area that includes the West or North, do not be concern as long as the West or North is not the focal point.
• Use Metal Singing Bowls or Tibetan Tingsha (cymbals) once in awhile to disperse the negative energy of the #2 and #5.

Zhen – 3 Jade Wood in the NE
“Star of Arguments”

Though the #3 is not a timely number, it is said to be usable in Period 8. Even so, it is still wise to be cautious as #3 is not inherently a fortunate energy and can bring short tempers, arguments, legal problems, divorce, and so forth. As with any negative influence, minimize use of this area and postpone remodeling.

Avoid metal wind chimes, metal ornaments, or placing any additional objects made of metal in this area as Metal “attacks” Wood. Avoid adding water or watery colors or symbols, as Water nourishes Wood. In fact, it is advisable to remove water features that may have been placed there in previous years.

It is best to reduced #3 Wood Element using the Fire Element. So burn candles, use bright lights, hang a lead-glass Crystal Sphere, place interior design accessories that are red, like Red Tassels, lamps with red lamp shades, a red piece of paper, or objects that are triangle shaped. A Red Kuan Yin, representing peace and compassion, or a Red Laughing (Ho Tai) Buddha can be used to transform the negative Qi of 3 Jade Wood.

You can also put your 12-Coin Ball tied with a Red Ribbon in the NE to guard against financial lost. If the NE is the direction of your front door, hang a new Bagua Mirror over the door to deflect any negative incoming energy. What makes the NE even more challenging, is that it is also the direction of Tai Sui.

Grand Duke Jupiter (Tai Sui) in NE

Unfortunately, the #7 shares the NE with Tai Sui, remember never to face the Grand Duke or disturb this area with remodeling, or even hammering a nail into a wall to hang a picture.

Avoid all out door digging. If you need to mow a lawn or do some construction that includes the NE, begin the project or activity to the left or right of the NE sector.

If your desk faces this direction, you may want to consider shifting it slightly to avoid the 15º occupied by the Grand Duke, which this year is 22.5º to 37.5º. Best of all is to sit with your back to the Grand Duke, and use this energy to support you in all your endeavors.

Do not put wind chimes, a fan, or any appliances that make noise in this sector this year, which can be difficult if this is your kitchen or TV viewing room. If that is the case, try to position yourself with the Grand Duke behind you and be sure to a Pi Yao (mythical animal with a dragon-head, horse body, with one or two horns, little wings, and hooves, or any fierce looking animal such as a rhinoceros) in the SW sector of the house or a room facing the NE for protection. Perhaps carry a Pi Yao Charm in your pocket, or some other Protection Amulet in accordance to your spiritual belief.

Some authorities recommend a pair of Pi Yao be used in order to adequately control Tai Sui. Whether one or two Pi Yao, plain or bejeweled, pay attention the first few weeks to see if they are truly protecting you, especially financially.

Dui – 7 Red Metal in East
“Star of Robbery”

The #7 is declining in influence and has now become a negative influence representing violence and robbery. And this year 7 Metal conflicts with Wood East.

If the 7 Star is in the kitchen, there needs to be caution against fires. So check smoke alarms and home fire extinguishers. If you have an office in the East consider moving it, or be extra careful to double check all legal agreements.

If the front door is in the East, be sure locks and security systems are working properly. You may want to put a new Bagua Mirror over the door. If your front door mat is red, you may want to replace it with one that is blue or other dark color. If you have a wind chime, it might be a good idea to remove it until Feb 4, 2010.

To avoid Metal 7 danger Do Not adding things made of Metal or Earth, as Earth nourishes the Metal energy of #7. Blue and dark colored accessories, along with a bowl of clean still water with six coins or “lucky bamboo” can be a calming influence to #7. Some people place a Blue Rhinoceros figurine in the area of #7.

Three Killings (San Sha) in the East

Unfortunately, this year the #7 Star shares the East with the Three Killings, which can add to this sector’s difficulties. However, the Three Killings should not be a problem if the proper remedies are put into place. Most of all, avoid sitting with your back to the East, and remember Do Not face the 15º of the Grand Duke in the NE (22.5º to 37.5º).

To protect yourself, place three Qi-Lin (Chinese Unicorns) or Pi Yao (often sold in pairs) facing East. To avoid financial lose Do Not begin construction or digging in this direction.

Next, we will look at this year’s fortunate Stars which you want to activate in order to tap their potentially positive influences.

K’an – 1 White Water in NW
“Star of Relationship”

This year the position of #1 Star is situated in the NW of the home. As the NW is related to Metal, Water Star 1 is nourished bringing opportunities for promotion and a boost for prosperity.

To hold onto the money that comes in some authorities recommend a Bejeweled Dragon-headed Tortoise. Actually, any money enhancers should do the job: such as the 12-Coin Ball with a red tassel, a Solid Brass Ingot, and anything else made of solid metal, such as a Seven-Tier Pagoda, or a Gold Arowana Fish figurine as the Metal nourishes Water.

As Water is the friend of 1 White Water, installing a Water Fountain or aquarium (moving water) in the NW sector will also boost prosperity and professional good fortune. Do Not, however, put a water feature with a water pump in the bedroom if the bedroom is in the NW of the house.

A Brass Wu Lou or other metal or round objects beside the bed will be beneficial. Blue dark colored, or heavily patterned interior design touches are encouraged to stimulate the Water Element. Avoid adding Fire Element colors or shapes.

Xun – 4 Green Wood in South
“Star of Intelligence, or Romance”

Wood 4 combines well with Fire South which brings new opportunities for career improvement or travel, if the front door of the house or an office is situated in this sector. Caution though, to feed the Wood and not the Fire.

Still water is an especially good way to attract prosperity, but the water must be kept clean water, whether in a vase with fresh flowers, or with four “lucky bamboo” in the bowl. An office in the South is especially auspicious for writers and other creative professions. If the #4 is in the bedroom use relationship images like Mandarin Ducks, which mate for life.

Do Not use water scenes in the bedroom, as some say this can lead to infidelity. If the #4 is in the bedroom, a wood Kuan Yin, Mandarin Ducks, or Dragon and Phoenix will add romance and stability to relationships.

Avoid adding objects that are white or metallic tone in color, made of metal, or are round or semi-circular in shape as Metal attacks Wood. Avoid the color red, triangle shapes, or burning candles as Fire reduces Wood. Either remove these items, or add additional dark, watery colors, and amorphous shapes to nourish 4 Green Wood whichever room in the house #4 is visiting.

Placing a Crystal Globe on a desk favors travel, a Seven-Tier Pagoda, an Abacus, and or a Calligraphy Pen Set is excellent to benefit academic achievement as well as the creative professions. A Gem Tree with Red Stones can also be used to harmonize 4 Wood with South Fire.

Qian – 6 White Metal in SW
“Star of Heaven”

The sector with #6 is usually considered to be excellent wealth and career success, especially this year as the SW Earth feeds the Metal Element of #6.

However, caution is also needed this year as the SW is also the location of Sui Po, the Year Breaker. Though you can strengthen the #6 with things made of metal such as a Dragon-headed Turtle with a coin in its mouth, metal Dragons, or other metallic wealth images, be careful not to activate the negative influences of Sui Po, the Year Breaker, by renovating, digging, or disturbing this area in any way.

You can also energize #6 with a lead-glass Crystal Sphere, or real Quartz Sphere or natural and unshaped. One or six Hollow Gold Ingots can be placed in the SW to enhance #6 (light weight, non-metallic, and gold color), or a non-metallic Gold Buddha.

Do not burn candles, and avoid adding anything with the color of red or that is triangular shaped, as the Fire Element destroys Metal.

If the SW is a bedroom, tone down #6 Metal with blue colored items, images of relationship harmony such as depictions of a Dragon and Phoenix

Gen – 8 White Earth in SE
“Star of Wealth”

The #8 is most fortunate as it is the Reigning Star for the next 15 years. This will bring great good fortune and career recognition, especially if your front door or office is located in this direction. If your front door is in the SE and you typically enter the house through a different door, place an energizer in this sector, such as a Water Fountain, kinetic sculpture, or chiming clock. And keep the entrance way clean and clutter free.

However, with #8 Earth in conflict with Wood SE, it is recommended to use more than one cure to insure financial well being and harmonious relationships such as a Wood Wu Lu tied with a red ribbon. As Fire makes Earth and triggers the good fortune in Star #8. Other items utilizing the red color can be used to burn up the Wood Element of the SE, while activating the #8 Earth, such as a Cinnabar Egg or a Red Laughing (Ho Tai) Buddha with hands over his head, holding an ingot, or sitting on a pile of ingots can all be used effectively. Coin Swords, 8-Coins on a red string with a tassel, and so forth will stimulate the 8 White Earth to bring financial good fortune. Use one or more.

Traditionally, a prosperity symbols like a red Wealth God, 3-Legged Toad or Dragon-headed Tortoise with a coin in its mouth is placed in the sector occupied by the Wealth Star 8, or placed in the SE end of an office. Using Eight Mansion Feng Shui, you can also place any prosperity symbol in the Sheng Ch’i direction of your Life Gua (see my Master Formula Study Guide #1).

Consider reposition your desk to a SE sector of the home or office and placing important financial documents in this sector, along with such wealth energizers as a real Quartz Crystal Sphere, Wealth Vase, Treasure Ship, or semi-precious stones, such as a Citrine Gem Tree.

However, the very best wealth energizer is activity. Open windows and let fresh air in. Most important of all, every time you walk through a door or room in this area, think: ka ching! If the SE is not a frequently used room, you can energize the SE sector of your office with something that moves, whether an aquarium, CD player, or an oscillating fan.

If your bedroom is in the SE, romance images such as a Dragon and Phoenix figurine, two Rose Quartz Hearts, or a pair of Mandarin Ducks will be beneficial for attracting a relationship and for maintaining relationship harmony.

Avoid using items made of metal (other than metal coins), as the Metal Element drains the Earth aspect of Wealth Star 8.

Li – 9 Purple Fire in the Center
“Star of Future Prosperity”

The 9 Purple Star is the “rising star” of Period 8 and represents the future prosperity and success of your business or career. It is also referred to as the Multiplying Star as it makes more of whatever it comes in contact with.

This year the Fire Element #9 is in harmony both with the Period Star 8 Earth and the double Earth of Yin Earth Ox, and will bring great good fortune to many homes and businesses.

The Center of the house is also a good area for study or for a bedroom. If a bedroom, placing a Wood Kuan Yin statue here will enhances relationship harmony. It is also recommended to place healthy green plants, fresh flowers, or any other symbols of yin-yang harmony to empower relationships, as Wood nourishes Fire.

For prosperity use red or purple objects such as an amethyst geod, nine amethyst crystals, or an Amethyst Gem Tree. A Scroll with Nine Fish, or nine dragons all strengthen #9’s good fortune while protecting it from negative Monthly Stars.

Avoid using items made of earth, square shape, or earth tones as the Earth Element weakens Fire and, possibly, the good luck of the Star of Future Prosperity.

Elliot jay Tanzer has provided astrological services since 1973. He is the author of Choose the Best House for You: The Feng Shui Checklist, Evaluating Astro*Carto*Graphy Maps: Finding the Best Places to Live & Travel – Your Step-by-Step Guide, and Exercises for the Spiritual Body – Meditation and Metaphysics and Their Practical Applications. He has been a featured speaker at many astrology, feng shui conferences, whole life expos, and metaphysical societies.

If you would like to learn how to do a Flying Star analysis, my Tutorial for Using the Master Formula Study Guides, along with my three laminated Study Guides, will explain each formula needed, and how to interpret the results.

Though the traditional 9-Box Grid is used my many feng shui practitioners, some Masters feel that as a compass determines direction as eight pieces of pie, it is more accurate to determining the position of Flying Star cures and enhancements using the Pie-Method. To make this easy to do, I have designed a perforated See-thru 8-Spoked Wheel Template for plotting the eight compass directions accurately onto any floor plan.

An illustrated version of this article can be download at: http://www.luckycat.com Many of the suggested cures and enhancements can also be purchased at this site.

For information about Astrology and Astro*Carto*Graphy Map Readings, Feng Shui consultations, mentoring, or to purchase books or feng shui products, call me at: (310) 281-6798, or at my Web site: http://www.Astrolog2009.com. All astrology and feng shui consultations whether in person, via Skype, or by phone are recorded.

So you’re looking into moving the concepts and principles of feng shui outside of your home and into your garden. This is a fabulous idea – after all, the energy you create outside your home directly affects the energy that is created within your home.

One of the best ways to create balanced, positive feng shui in your outdoor living space is to use plants to create positive energy. But do you choose just any plants? Are there certain plants and flowers that create better feng shui than others?

Although most all plants create positive energy for your household, there are some that clearly stand out as fine selections for generating vibrant, renewing, comfortable energy. Here are a few examples:

· Jade (Crassula Ovata) – this plant is wonderful for creating abundance and prosperity. You can use this plant near your front door (your career area) to invite abundance-producing energy into your home. You can also use this plant in your “fame” area at the rear of your home, as well as the “wealth and p[prosperity” area at the left rear section of your home, to help provide opportunities for notoriety, publicity, and personal wealth.

· Peony (Paeonia) – this flower symbolizes love and affection. If you have adequate sunlight, you can plant this flower in the right rear corner of your home (the “love and relationships” area) to promote harmonious family relationships. This is also a good choice for planting in or near the “creativity and children” section, in the central right part of your home, to help foster acceptance and approval of a child’s creative endeavors.

· Chrysanthemum – this flower is associated with ease of life, happiness, and joy. Yellow chrysanthemums are particularly good for creating joyful energy around your home. This is a fantastic choice for the “love and relationships” area located at the rear right corner of your home.

· Narcissus – this flowering bulb represents good fortune. This is another good flower to place at the front of your home, to attract abundance and good career opportunities.

· Money Plant (Philodendron Scandens) – a wonderful plant for shaded areas. Make sure you keep the leaves trimmed so they do not become too large. This is ordinarily placed at the front of the home; however, if the front of your home is very sunny, you may want to skip this plant, because not having a money plant at all is better than having a money plant with dead leaves.

· Lillies – these flowers help promote positive energy and good feng shui throughout the year. They also grow easily in just about any kind of soil, so they are a low-maintenance flower that you can count on year after year.

You can see that you have many choices when selecting plants for your feng shui garden. Just remember to intersperse these plants with metal sculptures and other objects that will help break up the dominating wood element of the plants and flowers. You can easily mix these elements to create a landscape that is both visually attractive and pleasing to the remainder of your senses (including the metaphysical ones) as well.

Linda Binns shows you how to be more successful in all areas of your life by working with your environment. Get FREE Feng Shui Success Secrets. These powerful and practical secrets can help you transform your life. Go to http://www.fengshuiexplained.com now.

Linda Binns is author of Feng Shui for Your Relationships: Changing Your Environment to Create Better Relationships. She has been a Feng Shui Practitioner, Author, Speaker and teacher for over 10 years. She has appeared internationally on television and radio and in local publications. Linda is also the founder of The Feng Shui Success Institute – which teaches in-depth Feng Shui training and practitioner certification.

Reading Tarot cards is not really as complicated as it is made out to be – at the same time, it is not that simplistic either. Here we have 78 different cards with a variety of images on them which convey so many things. How can one remember these meanings? How is it even possible to keep a track of all the different interpretations? And in the end, how does one know which meaning to go for during an actual reading?

I am going to tell you a few simple methods of being able to do so. However, it is equally important that one does not remain too rigid in these methods – the lessons in the cards talk about and teach flexibility – they essentially tell us to remain open and aware to what our inner voice or instinct or gut or intuition tells us.

So, are you ready to begin? Here we go:

1. Visual Cues: This is the first step towards deciphering the meanings of the Tarot cards – look at the picture on the card. What is happening in the picture? What feelings does it evoke within you? Pay attention to what are the first impulses in your mind when you see the images. These visual cues will tell you what is going on in your client’s life on the different planes of his existence. For example, look at the image of the 3 of Cups card. We see 3 finely dressed ladies holding their cups high in the air. Around them are fruits and flowers. Straight off, one can guess that they are having a party or a celebration of some sort. So, this may reveal to you that there is a celebration going on in the client’s life.

2. Elemental Cues: Each of the Tarot cards corresponds to a certain element: Wands with Fire, Cups with Water, Swords with Air, and Pentacles with Earth. Each of these elements talks of a different aspect of life: Fire is burning energy and passion, Water is flowing emotions and feelings, Air is the windy thoughts and logical mind, and Earth is solid practicality and money. And of course, let’s not forget the Major Arcana which corresponds to the element of Spirit / Ether, which is the representation of the higher spiritual planes of existence. So, in a reading, when you see a card from a particular suit, you know which aspect of life you are dealing with. And add to it the imagery of the card and its visual cues, and you have your interpretation right there! So taking our previous example of the 3 of Cups, we can see that cups are emotions and feelings. Plus the visual cues talk of celebrations. So now, we can say that these 3 ladies in the card are also emotionally bonded with each other – they could be friends. This interpretation thus reveals that the celebration in your client’s life is a party with his close friends with whom he can easily share his feelings.

3. How the Card Falls: This is another aspect of the reading – whether the card is upright or whether it is reversed. There are many ways of looking at card reversals – either you can see it as a total opposite of the upright meaning, or you can say that there is a blockage in the situation depicted in the upright meaning. So, continuing with our 3 of Cups card, we can say that in the reversed position this card will mean that either the celebration has gone bust, or that there are problems within the group of friends which does not allow them to bond completely with each other.

So, now you have an access to a very straightforward and simple method of reading the Tarot cards. If you want to learn more about the meanings of the cards, just visit ReadingTarotCardsRevealed.com and sign up for my free e-newsletter today!

Teresa Caro is a tarot card enthusiast and professional tarot card teacher. She has written a book on reading tarot designed to help the beginner read for them self and others. You can learn more about her book and sign up for her free newsletter at http://www.ReadingTarotCardsRevealed.com

As with all Cardinal Leadership Signs, we know that a new season is beginning. Libra is ready to start off Autumn upon the Equinox through it’s air guidance, granting the intellect and ideas a direction. With it’s ruling planet Venus, those influenced by the Scales are on a constant quest in life for balance, beauty and fairness.

The typical Libra native displays a charming, friendly, harmonious, idealistic, and diplomatic nature. Always a stead-fast judge, they are innate in seeing both sides of any issue. If those Scales become tipped in any way- they can fall to indecisiveness, vanity, insincerity, drama, and inconsistencies. One way a Libra can keep in check is always to be in full awareness of the relationship they first have with themselves before those with others.

The Zodiac House that Libra’s energy rules in the birth chart is the 7th of Partnerships/Marriage. This is the area of life in our chart that denotes how we desire to relate to any of our close and most intimate relationships, and the sign here also will point to the ultimate compatibility for the native. Looking to how the Zodiac Wheel may spin in any individual birth chart, the House Libra falls in is the area of life where they will see a harmonious and pleasure seeking nature behind all they do. Any planets that may be placed in Libra at the time of birth also take on their innate expression through the qualities of this peaceful and relationship-oriented sign.

Libra is our second cardinal and air sign upon the Zodiac Wheel. The collective naturally gravitates to coupled activities as the fall season begins upon the equinox. With the beauty of Venus as Libra’s ruler, the month urges us to spent time in pleasurable activities, romantic affairs and being fair! No other sign is more attuned to justice as a Libra innately knows how to ideally weigh both sides of the issue at hand.

Mercury visits his final Retrograde period of 2008 from 9/24 to 10/15. The Messenger will take a spin backwards through comparative Libra asking us to REassess our definition of diplomacy; ideally taking this period to engage in persuasive acts spirited with intuitive flashes. No doubt the world at large will be presented with negotiations that require a polished response. The Libra piece of your Zodiac pie points to where to watch for those communication mishaps and strive for extra understanding.

Mars enters transformational Scorpio upon the 10/3 and 10/4. The Universal urge to be perceptive and reveal secrets will be ultimately strong; while one should be aware of the tendency to swing to authoritative attitudes and insatiable desires. The Scorpio ruled area of the birth chart points to where one can anticipate powerful and passionate drive over the 6 weeks Mars visits the sign of regeneration.

Venus joins the Sun in Scorpio’s energy on 9/23 for 3 weeks. As the romantic planet now journeys with the Eagle, expect flattery, luxury, and purification to be at the core of value related matters, allowing revaluations of one’s experiences to emerge. Checking the area Scorpio affects you will be the slice of life that the potentials of mystery and deep change through renewed values can be brought to until 10.18.

May your start of Autumn ‘08 be full of harmonic relations from the wisdom of seeking to understand others.

Since the young age of 7, Sharita has been a student of the planets above and all of the mysteries of our Universe. She is available for all levels of astrological, numerical and lexigram analysis through readings and party services, available at: http://www.sharitastar.com – She resides between New York City and Chatham, NY while currently finishing her first book.

As you enter December 2008 you first need to acknowledge just how remarkable this year has been to date. For many of you it has signalled a change in your lives that has led to either a fresh start or a completely new beginning. This may relate to a new job, retirement, a new home, or a marked adjustment in your relationships, and in some cases, these transformations have been unwelcome. Personal aims and ambitions have been high on the agenda together with monetary anxieties. We have seen examples of these with the American Presidential elections this year and the so called ‘credit crunch’. Both of these are indicators that change is on its way and that the old is giving way to the new. If you are to ensure that your changes are carried through successfully then you have to be prepared to work in a constructive direction and to show willing when it comes to putting in the necessary time and effort to adjust. December heralds a period when work and consolidation are the priorities and it will favour the laying of firm foundations for the future. This will inevitably mean that you will have to leave elements of your present life behind you and you will therefore need to break with old habits and lifestyles so that you can move on with a clean slate. A certain nostalgia will accompany this path but try to see this as a situation that has run its natural course.

Tiredness, possessiveness and an intolerant attitude may cause quarrels, arguments or aggression but these actions are best avoided as they will lead to personal hurt all around. Instead, try to use a touch of good old fashioned charm in your dealings with others. The workload may be heavy so look after yourself physically and pace yourself carefully so that you get plenty of sleep and a good diet. Exercise pride in your work and show integrity in all that you do. Financial and property matters will come to the forefront so you will need to adopt a practical frame of mind and to be well organised in order to make sure that all your plans in these areas function smoothly. It is now time to put your ideas or opportunities on a concrete footing. You may be feeling somewhat insecure because you cannot predict quite how your future will unfold but you must go forward with confidence even though you have some doubts or reservations. Be a little conservative rather than rash in your approach. Spend sensibly, neither be too mean nor too lavish at this time instead try to work to a reasonable budget. There wont be much time for leisure during this month as you will need to maintain a steady application and to stick to a schedule. If you find yourself bogged down with decisions ask for advice but remain independent and act according to your own instincts. Try not to be too inflexible or stubborn if you run into obstacles as they may be there to flag up a better way of doing things.

There was a quote on the radio the other day which said that ‘If you do what you have always done then you will get what you have always got’. This is eminently applicable to the month of December 2008.

Good luck.

Professional Numerologist and Astrologer, Peter Dobrovic offers personal consultations and professionally written reports based on over twenty years experience of practising Numerology. Peter, uses the three systems of Numerology, I Ching and the Chinese Horoscope to provide readings for his hundreds of satisified clients across the UK. You can visit his site at http://www.pdnumerology.com

The Heavenly Gods

Egypt stands out as the country where life was based on the Nile, the Stars and the Pharaoh. The Pharaoh was a god and after he died, he joined Osiris in the sky. Together they would circle the Earth. The only Pharaoh that believed differently was Akhenaton who believed there is only one God. He told his followers to pray to their Father who art in Heaven and he wrote hymns.

The Sun as God

One could forgive him for worshipping the Sun. In the desert you can hardly afford to have the Sun against you. As a friend it is hard enough. Today we know the Sun is responsible for all the energy we have. The plants, animals and the interaction of the heat and Solar Wind particles with the atmosphere all play a role. If you had to pick one object to worship, the Sun would be the closest to God you could get. Its effect can be seen and felt.

The Nile Star

Sirius is called the Nile Star and it was closely connected to the Nile and the flooding of the Nile. One way to predict the flooding was waiting for the Nile Star to appear. And when it did it was time to make ready for the flooding of the banks. God was good for the Egyptians and they had more than they could eat. So they gave it away to friends and enemies alike.

The Egyptian was early astronomers and had a good grasp of the motions of the heavenly bodies. In the Secret Chamber written by Robert Bauval you find amazing connections pointed out between the Temples and Pyramids and the Heavens above. Egypt is littered with Astronomy examples.

Leon is the creator of the Ozymandeus Challenge, in which Egypt, Astronomy and Spirituality play a part. Please visit his site to find out what it is about. http://ozymandeus.com/index.htm

It is my belief that all the great writers of the past understood many of the new concepts that the future would bring mankind. They were far in advance of the masses of humans in intelligence and consciousness. They all ‘looked through glasses darkly’ as Paul said. Meaning that even though they had advanced consciousness what they saw and thought about was still shrouded in some mystery.

The Age of Aquarius has ushered in a new paradigm called the Laws of Quantum Physics. Every new paradigm must possess two basic factors. One is a new set of rules to think with. The second is the ability to answer any questions presented to the new set of rules.

If a new paradigm expounds the virtues of even numbers and gives thousands of examples that says only even numbers exist, then as soon as one presents a negative number the whole paradigm falls apart.

The Age of Aquarius will be with us for 2000 years. Already in the fist hundred years we have been given several gifts, the Laws of Quantum Physics being only one. What will the next 1900 years have in store for us.

I can only point to what I think and understand about the Laws of Quantum Physics and the New Age of Aquarius. Only time will tell how accurate or false I am. But you must make your own judgments.

In my study of the Laws of Quantum Physics, I have gone back to the great thinkers and philosophers of the past and put them to the test of the new paradigm of the Laws of Quantum Physics.

These laws state that there exists an infinite ocean of thinking intelligent energy called the Quantum Ocean. Everything that is, was or will be exists in the Quantum Ocean. There is no time, no past, no present nor future only the Now. Since the Quantum Ocean is a synonym for the Mind of God, it responds to our thoughts as God would.

The purpose of the Quantum Ocean is to give each man, who is an individual soul in the the Mind of God, a playing field, a matrix of energies to perform his destiny. And the destiny of man is continuous incarnations, becoming more god-like until he becomes God himself.

After re-reading, “Thus Spoke Zarathustra”, by Nietzsche, I could see many pf his quotes that passed the test of the new paradigm. As with all past great thinkers, they knew of the existence of the Quantum Ocean, the Laws of Quantum Physics and the Mind of God. They spoke and wrote about these things in the language of their times.

Check these quotes out and put them to the test. If and when you read a book and find some golden truths. Then it is safe to assume that if and when you read additional books of the same author you will find more golden truths.

“Let your love towards life be love towards your highest hope (your God-like destiny), and your highest hope be the highest ideas of life!”

“Every thing goes, everything returns. The wheel of existence rolls for ever. Everything dies, everything blossoms anew, the year of existence runs on forever.”

“But the complex causes in which I am entangled will recur. It will create me again. I myself am part of the these causes of the Eternal Recurrence.”

“Our way is upward.”

“Once you said “God” when you gazed upon the distant seas. But now I have taught you to say “I am God.”

Read “Thus Spoke Zarathrustra” and put it to the test yourself. I have tested the writings of Plato, Pythagoras, Vitvan, Sri Arabindo, Blavatsky and others. They have all passed the test. In this new age do not allow others to think for you. With the gift of the Internet you can now surf and get your own information. I am only suggesting some truths you may want to research.

Ellis Peterson AKA Ragnar Storyteller is a retired math professor and electronics engineer. He has been studying astrology, runes, radionics, metaphysics and alternate healing treatments for over 30 years. He is 70+, in very good health and lives in the boonies of the Pocono mountains with his wife Lory. His writings are unique and refreshing. To see more of his writings visit his websites.

http://www.olevikingshop.com/

and

http://www.runes-for-health-wealth-love-now.com/

Or go to goggle and type in his pen name RAGNAR STORYTELLER for his listings. He is also a ghost writer and will write and article for you. Email Ragnar for his FREE 10 PART MINI-COURSE, “How-To use Quantum Physics in Your Every Day Life to Attract More Wealth, Health and Love, Now.” You can contact him by email.

epete@ptd.net

You just received a set of tarot cards from a friend, in her hopes that getting you into the art of tarot card reading would give you some perspective in life (and probably something out of the usual to do). Then you open the pack, see pieces and pieces of tarot cards but have no idea whatsoever how to start learning what each one means. Thank goodness for the internet, you log on and search for free tarot card meanings. Voila! The answers appear as fast as your bandwidth allows.

Tarot cards were used in the olden days to seek for guidance and wisdom from the deities, but was later on associated with witchcraft and the dark arts. Although you won’t be burned at the stake for possessing a set these days, the art of reading tarot cards is not as easy as it looks. Some seek training from experts to be more decisive in their tarot care reading, as more and more books are being published to teach laymen to learn the art. But tarot cards remain popular for people of all ages, because reading the cards allow the rekindling of the bond with the spiritual world, which perhaps is the most profound expression of finding our selves in a very busy world.

Free tarot card meanings are helpful in understanding the ins and outs of tarot card reading. You will find out that your deck of cards is divided into subgroups. The Major Arcana deals with the primary and deeply symbolic of characters, while the Minor Arcana deals with objects such as wands, pentacles, cups, and swords. The Wands usually foretell rhythm, energy, and enterprise; the Cups signify happiness and abundance; the Swords reflect the presence of conflict and aggression in one’s life; while the Pentacles say something about earthly possessions and work. You will learn that the meanings of these cards correlate to the historical and religious symbolisms that have been used as tools for understanding the divine for thousands of years.

The meanings of these cards would differ based according to their orientation when picked out from the deck, such that the implications of an upright appearance are sometimes the opposite of the reverse appearance. There are also more specific categories of the tarot cards, and their significance to your reading would depend on how ‘connected’ you feel towards the images and the deck in general. For instance, there is the Curious Tarot, the Gothic Tarot, the Electric Tarot, and the Runes – all having different moods of the artistic representation of the tarot symbols.

By the time you have seen the basic connotations of the cards, it is of certainty that you would want to start with your tarot card reading session. In the absence of an expert in tarot reading or an extensive manual, it is recommended that you try out different tarot card readings sessions online and observe how the meanings are explained based on your choices of cards from the deck. When you see the explanation, refer back to the free tarot card meanings provided online. In that way, you will intuitively distinguish one card from another, and learn what they connote in different contexts. In the end, tarot card reading is based on intuition – something no manual could completely teach you. Tarot card reading is all about listening to the hidden voice of the spirit and say, “I believe”.

Learn about the best Free Online Psychic Reading web site, which is a popular web site that provides tips and advice on the best Free Psychic And Tarot Reading.

As we analyze the charts, the specific positions of the Sun gives us vital clues about the day, the Moon the hour, and the MC the moment. At the time of the inauguration the MC was square Apollon, indicating a sense that anything and everything positive is possible. The Sun and Mercury were conjunct and both 22 1/2 degrees to Neptune, which explains the flub by Chief Justice Roberts at the swearing in.

This planetary combo indicate a couple of contradictions. It is a day of inspiration, yet the glowing promises made by the new president in his inaugural speech may not be possible to keep.

There are ghosts from the previous administration lurking in the shadows ready to pounce as the Pluto on the US chart is opposite the MC and in the 4th house of the chart of the inauguration. Another indication of hidden issues and agendas lurking in hiding is in the US Mercury 22 1/2 degrees to the Pluto of January 20th. Watch where you are stepping, Mr. President.

The President, otherwise known as the commander in chief, is Sun/Kronos. The US SU/KR is the SU/KR of the inauguration. This tells me that we have elected the right man and he is meant to be President. This SU/KR/SU/KR= US Node/tHades indicates that our new president needs his back covered at all times; there could be some malevolent individuals waiting for the right moment to pounce.

This combo also indicates that he has a ghost or two watching over him, Rosa Parks, Martin Luther King and every black man, woman, and child slave had a front row seat, and will be working to protect him. These same spirits will be watching over him during his entire term in office.

The Moon in the nations and inauguration chart represents the people, the nations populous. The inauguration’s Moon was 135 degrees from the US Saturn, and the midpoint between these two planets is the US Neptune, Mo+SA=NE. Underlying the jubilation of no more Bush, the American people are worried about their security and their ability to afford medical care for themselves and their families. In other words, they fear what tomorrow holds for them.

Transiting KR/Pl = tVE/MA = US VE and it brings in the US MO by the US solar arc of 230′54″. The people are in love with the change in command and this accounts for the dancing in the streets. We must not lose sight that he took over from a corrupt administration. Transiting KR/PL = tHA/US AD indicates changing leadership which was previously corrupt. There are secrets still to be revealed since PL is 22 1/2 degrees to ME. Mercury Pluto is reading between the lines, with information that will reveal itself.

As I mentioned earlier, the inauguration chart is the birth chart for the next 4 years of this administration, which means it will react to upcoming transits. We begin with the solar eclipse on January 26th at 6 Aquarius 30 falling 135 degrees from the inauguration Saturn. We will then experience a lunar eclipse on February 9th at 21 Leo Aquarius. The solar eclipse will be activated on February 12th and 13th by Mars 45 degrees to Uranus as it reaches 6 Aquarius, 21 Pisces. That scares me. Mars Uranus usually indicates accidents or violent eruptions. Add the solar eclipse and Saturn, and we have an event that could result in death. This could mean fighting reoccurs in the Middle East, Pakistan, Afghanistan or disruptive demonstrations elsewhere in the world.

On March 3rd and 4th, Mars reaches 21 Aquarius and sets off the lunar eclipse three days before Venus goes retrograde. Mary Downing and I used to notice that when eclipses are transitted by Mars, they usually set off a major mundane event. In this case, with Venus involved it could be another major investment company or bank going under. I would suggest you save your pennies.

By the end of August 2009, Saturn will be 22 Virgo and it will be midpoint the inauguration Mo/US SA. This tells us that the public will be sad, depressed and feeling very insecure.

In September, transiting Saturn will be 22 1/2 degrees to the SU/KR of both the inauguration and US charts. President Obama will clearly be dealing with overwhelming responsibilities he will have the weight of the world on his shoulders.

The old adage of being careful of what you wish for, will be on the mind of our President

Oh, for those of you how think that his second swearing in changes everything, you are wrong. After he was originally sworn in she signed papers declaring him the President.

For more articles, or more about Uranian Astrology, please check out my website at http://www.amnuranianastrologer.com

Arlene Marcia Nimark is, and has been a full time astrologer since 1980. She has a level IV certification from NCGR, and is on the faculty of New York City Chapter of NCGR. Since 1982 her specialty is in Uranian astrology. She is one of the few who use the full system, 360 degree with it’s multiple house systems for intense analysis of the individual, and forecast with the use of the 90 degree dial. Arlene has lectured at UAC’ 92, 95, 98, 02 and 08, plus many local as well as National NCGR conferences, the SOTA conference in Toronto, Canada, and at some AFA conferences. She has also done numerous workshops through out the USA, and Mexico using this dynamic system of astrology. http://www.amnuranianastrologer.com

I find it really funny when somebody just wishes to dump astrology without having any rationale behind their conclusions. How can you dump a thing unless you make a thorough study of it and give valid reasons for your conclusions?

Well, I certainly believe in the science of astrology. And this does not mean that I adore astrology as if it is all in all in my life. For, I very well know that stars only impel, they do not compel.

The common question proposed by the school against astrology is- Do stars create your destiny? The answer to this question is- Yes and No. For, the answer depends upon the circumstances and many other variable factors.

In reality, you are the creator of your destiny, not the victim. Have a deep thought.
Your inner world and the outer world are absolutely interconnected. Let there be no doubt about it. If you are unable to understand this aspect, don’t blame one and all for your ignorance.

Why persons born on the same day will not have identical future? Why, please investigate and find out. Don’t blame astrology for that.

Astrology influences your works in a varied way. Just because you are unable to understand these subtle movements, these finer vibrations, don’t again blame astrology. If at all, make sincere efforts to understand them.

The science of astrology was drafted by the ancient sages. These sages are the Realized Souls who have crossed the mind barrier. Once they reach there, they can speak nothing but truth. All your quarrels, differences of opinion are mind-level creations. How the science of astrology as perfected by them can give you wrong conclusions?

Understand astrology. If you can properly do this, you can as well realize how accurate could be the predictions.

To get more information on astrology, astrology signs and astrology reports visit

http://www.your-astrology.com

Lately I have had difficulties falling asleep, and last night, when I finally did, I had three different nightmares. Needless to say, I was all worn out by the time I woke up in the morning. Because I did not have a restful night the night before and was tired from my mom’s birthday party, tonight I was expecting to fall asleep as soon as my head hit the pillow.

Well, that just did not happen at all, and that is why I am writing this article at close to three o’clock in the morning. As soon as I had closed my eyes, my mind started racing; assorted thoughts and pictures were running through it about all sorts of topics imaginable. Rather than stressing myself further, I got up and decided to draw a Gypsy card that may shed light on what the real matter is that keeps me from sleeping.

I shuffled the deck and asked what was hidden from my view, and I drew the Fortune card. I instinctively thought that I may be worried about money, position or that the things I love may be taken away from me. What am I worried about that otherwise should make me feel fortunate and powerful?

Apart from its many layers of meanings, Fortune also talks about being in control of creating a situation that is to our advantage. In other words, we control how we react to the opportunities that are offered to us. We have to grab Fortune’s feet when she is walking right above us; if we hesitate and decide not to act, she will walk past us, leaving us empty handed.

Deep down I know that I should be more open to the opportunities that are offered to me. But, instead of doing that, I tend to focus on the routine which, although, gets things done, does not leave much room for development in my business. Also, the daily routine steps that I need to complete for the sake of business start to overwhelm me. I need to manage them so that I will have the time and the strength to explore the new opportunities offered to me.

My weakness is managing communication. I try and answer every phone call, every e-mail in real time. This clutters my brain, and lately it has been a source of frustration. No wonder my mind cannot shut off and works overtime.

In a broader sense, not managing the routine steps of my day and my communication more efficiently prevent me from growing, and my subconscious knows that. What a smart warning gadget!

Knowing finally what Fortune was trying to tell me, I will now go back to bed. Hopefully sleep will come soon.

Acknowledging the messages of the cards is half of the battle that leads to change! Only what we don’t own we cannot fix.

Esther Gombor, a Hungarian-born romantic, has managed to finally dispel the mysteries surrounding her own life and everyone else’s who has asked for her help. She is the author of the book: Fortune Telling with Gypsy cards; Dispel the Mysteries Surrounding Life and Romance. Her fabulous guide to reading illustrated fortune telling cards is the crystallized essence of her native Hungarian culture, her extensive traveling throughout Europe and her Master’s degree in Italian Medieval and Renaissance literature. Although she lives in Toronto, Canada, where she writes, she spends most of her summers in her native country to keep on researching more secrets for her next book. The article here comes from her daily blog GYPSY BLOG CAFE accessible through her personal website: http://www.gypsyfair.com

Understanding the meaning of Tarot cards can often seem like a very difficult task for many among us. Each picture is different and contains many elements. There is a plethora of associations and correspondences within the images of these 78 beautiful cards which combine together towards forming the meaning of Tarot cards. In short, the key to understanding the meanings of the Tarot cards, you have to look at the cards from these perspectives.

Let’s have a look at these various associations and correspondences:

1. Symbolism: It is a well known fact that the Tarot cards are the repositories of many different symbols. These symbols range from the very simple (red rose stands for desire) to the very complicated (the Kabbala Tree of Life on the 10 of Pentacles card). For the ardent student of the Tarot, it is essential to gain an understanding of these symbols and understand the different meanings which can be derived from these symbols. The red rose on the Magician card adds the meaning of ‘desire and intent’ to all the actions performed by the person in the card, and the Tree of Life on the 10 of Pentacles adds the meaning of completion and perfection to the meaning of that card.

2. Mythology: Myths have been conveyed in the form of in the form of images on the Tarot cards. These myths add another level of meaning to the cards themselves, while giving a lot of background material towards understanding the deeper motives and philosophies behind certain symbols present on the card. For example, the pomegranates on the curtain behind the High Priestess refer to the mythological story of Persephone in Greek Mythology. Unless we read / know the story of Persephone, it would be difficult to understand how and why these pomegranates talk about fertility.

3. Psychology: Noted Swiss psychologist Carl Jung devoted his life to the study and analysis of the various symbols of Man. He considered the Tarot cards to be full of several Archetypes which human beings deal with in their daily life. Studying the Tarot cards from the perspective of psychology can also open up doorways into our inner self and can help us in our process of what Jung called ‘Individuation’. A good example of this concept is expressed in the Empress card, which is a personification of the Mother Archetype.

4. Numerology: There are numbers on each of the Tarot cards (except for the Court Cards). Therefore, it may seem important for some of us to study the numerological aspect of these cards. Each number stands for something. And on the card, it certainly adds into the meaning of the card. For example, the Major Arcana card, the Emperor has the number 4 on it. Among other things, the number 4 stands for stability (any structure stands on four legs). So, this number definitely adds to the meaning of the Emperor card, and says that the Emperor is a provider of stability to his kingdom. Or it can also say that the Emperor has achieved a state of emotional, mental and spiritual stability in his life.

5. Astrology: All the cards in the Major and Minor Arcana are often linked to different astrological signs and so on. A study of these aspects can only serve to add to the meaning of that card. For example, the Magician card is linked to the planet Mercury. Mercury is the planet of communication. And the Magician is always a leader – so, this means that communication is his forte, simply because to be a good leader, one must have good communication skills.

If one studies the Tarot cards with all these different perspectives, it ensures that one is closer to the lessons of self development offered in these wonderful cards. If you want to study the different meanings of the Tarot cards, just visit my website and subscribe to my free email newsletter.

Teresa Caro is a tarot card enthusiast and professional tarot card teacher. She has written a book on reading tarot designed to help the beginner read for them self and others. You can learn more about her book and sign up for her free newsletter at http://www.ReadingTarotCardsRevealed.com

Alchemy, in its essence, implies changing the nature of things. In the lore of some societies, this came to mean a lot over the course of time.

Birds were thought to be the symbols of alchemy. Phoenix, Raven, White Swan, Peacock, and Pelican corresponded to an inner experience and inner dimension of spiritual being. The alchemist or the poet who observed the birds saw an image of the human soul going through a development that freed it from the earthly things, because the birds took flight between the physical and spiritual worlds and, if they landed, they landed on the Tree of Life or the Stone of wisdom.

William Blake wrote:

“How do you know but ev’ry Bird that cuts the airy way,

Is an immense world of delight, clos’d by your senses five?”

In most traditions, the language of birds is the tongue of Secret Wisdom, through myth and symbolism, not only in Alchemy but also in Kabbalah, Astrology, and Tarot.

Alchemy was considered to be as deplorable as black magic at one time; yet, at another time and place, it was lauded as being the highest form of science bordering with art for being the science through which the baser materials like copper were changed into gold and silver.

I remember from the time when I was into the Middle Eastern lore that there was this saint who could change dry leaves into gold through a formula given to him by the Creator. Of course, being a saint, he didn’t need the gold, so he changed the gold back to dried leaves in one night. This is a parable, as the human imagination has no bounds.

The earliest form of alchemy existed in old Egypt where magic ruled. Ancient Egyptians believed that magical powers existed in metallic things, alloys, and the like. Chances are, the whole thing was based on Hermes Trismegistus’s art from the ancient Greek times. The seed or at least the hope of alchemy subsisted also inside Europe’s bronze working classes and in old Byzantium. Over the centuries, numerous publications came to existence requiring scholarly inquisition on the art (or science) of alchemy.

If alchemy’s first obsession was gold, the second was to discover a potion that would prolong life, or better yet, that would make man immortal. The third obsession of alchemy has been the manufacture of human life, artificially of course, which is scary. I imagine it ending up like the dry leaves parable.

Transmutation of metals could supposedly be accomplished by the Philosopher’s Stone, which had been associated with the Salt of the World, The Elixir and the like. In its conceptual form the stone reflected higher wisdom and intelligence.

The entire process of alchemy was based upon the research and examination of nature and the way in which it operated, how the metals became metals inside the depths of the earth, and how sulphur and mercury acted upon them.

According to alchemists, nature was divided into male and female and also into four regions: dry, cold, warm, and moist. Ayurveda healing comes to mind; although, I don’t recall if or how the two can be connected. Into all this study, of course, went the alchemist’s character, which had to be truthful.

Someday, all these things that alchemy wanted to accomplish may be possible through science. But what then? What if we changed everything into gold? Remember the story of Midas?

What if the thing we changed with good intentions through alchemy or science resulted in calamity? I have a feeling that in order to dare change the base or nature of anything, one has to know everything in its entirety. Possibly, that privilege belongs only to the Creator.

One may use alchemy in another way, however. A soft word, a friendly smile, a holding of a hand, and our intent for world peace can be the best Philosopher’s Stone we can use. Maybe this way, we won’t have to change the essence of anything and anyone, but we may help them find a full meaning inside their basic framework.

Joy Cagil is an author on http://www.Writing.Com/ which is a site for Writers. Her background is in linguistics, and humanities.

Since the very early ages man has been intrigued and influenced in various ways by astrology. Through the centuries, there have been both rebellions regarding the acceptance of astrology as an actual science. While astrology lovers might rejoice in the fact that astrology has now been accepted world wide the study of the same still remains shrouded much in mystery given its nature and fascination in various quarters of the world. Our discussion here traces the study and growth of astrology and how people throughout generations have been affected by it.

Simply defined, astrology may be said to be the study of the various positions of planetary bodies keeping in mind the belief that the movements of these bodies have the capacity to influence the life of human beings. You could use astrology to help you in different ways. While astrology is not to be confused with fortune telling, it can in fact help you identify behavioral patterns that are causing damage to your chances of success and a happy life. Astrology in fact forewarns you of challenges you may face and hence helps you tackle them firmly and in a better manner. It also helps us in determining that there is a sense of timing necessary for every work to be done.

It is commonly believed that the origins of astrology lie with the Greeks. Actually there are several versions to this story While Indians are of the belief that astrology originated in India due to the mention of astrological study in the Rig veda, (Indian scriptures), Egyptians are of the belief that the study of astrology originated in Egypt. However the beginnings of actual astrological study can be traced back to the Old Babylonian period, around the second millennium.

While most ancient civilizations have had a history of their men worshipping the elements like the Sun, Moon, Water and the elements, one does find the traces of the beginning of any astrological study beginning with such worship. Whether it was the Greeks during the fifth and the fourth centuries BC or the Sumerians, who settled in Mesopotamia about 4000 BC, the contributions to astrology and its study have been made and influenced minds through out the world.

Around the time of AD 500, the study and interest in astrology diminished to some However it was brought about to the western world by Albumasar, a Muslim intellectual. After this phase the interest and studies in astrology have again revived.

Astrology as a study and as a subject by itself has fascinated men not to mention even scientists like Plato, Pythagoras, Leucippus and Aristotle. The study and quest for astrology continues till today in various countries. It has varied influences on different people. There might have been many things that have come to the fore in such studies over time, though the fact remains that this genre of studies and its fascination over men continue to rule as it did centuries ago.

http://www.researchbody.org

Astrology has been around, in one form or another, for many centuries. Despite a great number of attempts to prove it is wrong, astrology still persists in our modern world. Why is this?

Some people have tried to show that astrology cannot be a true science, because it is impossible for the patterns of the stars and constellations to influence events on Earth. Yet astrology is still widely believed, and used by large numbers of people. The scientific community, taken generally, is against it, but there have been some scientists who have spoken out in favour. By far the most celebrated of these was the Swiss psychologist Carl Gustav Jung.

Jung was the first to coin the term “synchronicity” to help explain the theoretical basis for astrology as a scientific activity. He agreed that it is impossible for the stars to influence events. But he suggested that underlying forces and influences could produce the patterns in the stars and AT THE SAME TIME could influence the events happening on Earth. Hence the term “synchronicity” which means “at the same time”. These underlying influences are undetectable by our instruments, so all we see are the effects of them. When we see the pattern of the stars, and the pattern of events, and we note that they are similar, it is natural to think that one of them is causing the other. But according to Jung, they do not cause each other, they both are themselves caused by something else.

So how does this work? The key to understanding it is to think about patterns. You may have heard of a certain kind of pattern called a “fractal”. This is a pattern that repeats itself when magnified. In other words, you see a particular pattern in the fractal, and when you magnify it a hundred times, or a thousand times, you see that the larger pattern is made up of millions of smaller copies of the same pattern. This continues, however deep you go into the fractal, and if you zoom right back out, you still get the same pattern. So this is how the same pattern can appear in the stars, and in the events on Earth at the same time. Because they are component parts of the same fractal pattern happening at the same time, in synchronicity. We cannot see the cause of the fractal because we are inside it, we are ourselves part of the fractal.

The people who believe “scientifically” that astrology does not work, are suffering from a limited world-view. The universe uses underlying forces and influences that we cannot detect to give rise to similar patterns great and small, which share the same characteristics by synchronicity. And that is why astrology works. Find out more at our “Astrology” blog on the link below.

You can read more on our “Astrology” blog at http://phe-astrology.blogspot.com/

This article is for an anybody that wants to start looking at stars, but don’t know how or where to start. If you read this, you will realize it is very easy and most important, it is cheap and you can do it without spending money. You will learn the first step towards this exciting adventure.

So now that you know it won’t cost you money, what do you need to be able to explore the Universe around our home planet? Not much but it is very good to have a star chart at hand. They can be found in books that show you Star Charts or something referring to the Zodiac. They also come in different formats. From very simple ones with a few stars and connecting lines between them to others that look like wheels. You can find them at any Planaterium or Observatory. The cheaper the better as you onlu need one to show you the brightest stars. The rest you can fill in yourself.

A tip is to never buy your kid a cheap telescope or let parents buy you a cheap telescope. Reason for this is that it is far too difficult for a beginner to actually find a star looking through a cheap scope. If you manage to find one, the turning Earth will take it out of sight so quickly that you will have to start looking for it from scratch. This will frustrate you and before the night is over the telescope will be back in its box.

My second tip is a far cheaper option but one that will bring many nights of star gazing. Lend, borrow or buy a normal 10×50 set of binoculars. That is it as you’ll probably have one at home already. With this you can view entire constellations, star clusters , the moon and the planets. Things you can see once you know where to find Jupiter, are the four biggest moons.

Luck is also on your side as almost each school, but certainly each town has a library. This is your best resource for free literature on the stars, the Universe and the Solar System. Many of them have star charts in and it doesn’t matter how old the book, the chart will always be correct. These are combinations of constellations. Constellations you’ll recognize as they are mostly spots representing stars and lines connecting the spots. Try to find Orion or the Southern Cross or Scorpio so that you get an idea of how they look on paper and then go outside and see if you can find them in the sky. The Southern Cross lies in the south and Orion you’ll find pretty much moving from East to West over your head as the night progresses. Just keep in mind that sometimes it won’t be visible when you look for it. Then it will rise later or in the early morning.

Do you need to read a lot I hear you ask? Not really, but the moment you start to explore the stars, you will want to know more about them, where they come from and probably where they are going. This you can get in books written for children as this will give you the most elementary information.

To summarize, you need at least a star chart and at least one eye and you are on the verge of discovering the Universe. Only then do you need binoculars and once you know enough about the stars and how and why they move, then you can invest in a decent telescope.

Leon Steyn

What is most interesting with the Snake Chinese zodiac, considering that we are in constant turmoil with money matters, is that the Snake people will never have to worry about money, they are financially fortunate. This would probably attribute to their being vain, selfish and a bit stingy. But in contradiction to these attributes, they have tremendous sympathy for others and try to help those less fortunate. As they are naturally strong in perception and awareness, this enables them to very good at caring for others.

Their being seducers of human beings have been with us ever since. It started in the Garden of Eden. Yet unlike the evil Snake who lured Eve to commit the original sin, the astrological snake is not a demon. He or she is a great oversexed typical human being. Driven to follow through anything he undertakes to the bitter end, since the Snake detest being left in the air. He is decisive and quick.

Snakes are notoriously good looking and like to project the best image of themselves as much as possible. The have elegant and stylish tastes in clothes. The men are **** and have always a bit of dandy about them and the ladies are seductive and go gaga over smart accessories. Whether in looks or in circumstances, Snake people have a magical knack in making the very best out of the most mediocre. Although calm in the surface, they are intense and passionate.

This kind of trait has been once and for all been demonstrated in Japan. Those wishing to pay a compliment to a woman and acknowledge her beauty are accustomed to say: “My dear, you are a real snake!”– a salutation most likely to be misinterpreted in the West.

In love, the Snake male is romantic and charming. The female is usually beautiful and successful. But if the Snake male chooses a partner he will be jealous and possessive, even if he no longer loves her. There is this fear of rejection. They need a lot of security. They are not able to take rejection maturely. Refusing to listen to constructive advice, they may become prone to getting into needless trouble.

The Rabbit, Ram and Dog are in good terms with the Snake, but the Rat and the Rooster are considered pests. The Snake is always compatible with the Ox on condition that the Ox will always be the boss—a condition to which the Snakes accedes. But the Snake should beware of the Boar. The Boar will impose upon him, ensnare and immobilize him. Snake people tend to disagree with Pig, Tiger, Horse and Monkey but as in all relationships, things need to be worked out.

June is the month of the Snake. The Snake’s color is red. Their direction of orientation is south-southeast.

As with the Ox Chinese zodiac, with whom the Snake people are compatible with, the elements go this way: Metal Snake – 1941, 2001; Water Snake – 1953,2013; Wood Snake – 1905,1965; Fire Snake – 1917, 1977; Earth Snake – 1929, 1989.

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Libra is the 7th holy day of the 12 holy days of Christmas. The 12 holy days start on December 26-January 6th. Each day is assigned to a Disciple, sign of the Zodiac, spiritual attainment, spiritual part of the physical body, and a thought meditation from the Bible.

My book Christmas Meditations on the Twelve Holy Days December 26-January 6
by Merry C. Battles is a compilation of my 26 year dedication to the 12 holy days of Christmas.

The Disciple for Libra is St. Jude, the spiritual center is the adrenals, the attainment is “To express the divine attributes as a devotee and to see beauty in all things.” The thought meditation for the 7th holy day and as the earth travels through the sign of Libra is, “Ye shall know the truth and shall make you free.” (John 8:32)

The Cosmic pattern for the Hierarchy of Libra is the World Beautiful. This beauty can be seen on every “landscape, every tree, shrub, plant, and every form in the various forms of nature.” Harmony and beauty are Libra’s signature. When humanity can reach these divine attributes, poverty, disease, discord, and pain will be abolished. When the adrenals are functioning properly our bodies create absolute physical and psychological balance through every organ and its processes. (From the book Mystery of the Christos by Corinne Heline)

St. Jude Thaddeus is a powerful intercessor and close friend of the Divine Master Jesus. St. Judes father, Cleophas, was the brother of St. Joseph. St. Judes mother, Mary of Cleophas, was a cousin of the blessed Virgin Mary; their mothers were sisters.

St. Jude has drawn many devotional followers down through the centuries for his help in desperate situations. His New Testament letter stresses that the faithful should “persevere in the environment of harsh, difficult circumstances as their forefathers had done before them.” He was a tireless worker and dared to try and do the impossible. Thaddeus means sweetness and gentleness of character. St. Jerome called him a “zealot.”

St. Jude is the patron St. of desperate situations, forgotten and impossible causes, hospital workers, and hospitals. Libra’s spiritual center is the adrenals. They give us the power to do the impossible, like lifting a car when someone is in dire need.

According to the book “The Twelve Powers of Man,” (by founder of Unity Church, Charles Filmore) St. Jude is the Disciple relating to renunciation, elimination, change of heart, and conversion.

A change of mind sets up a corresponding change in the physical body. If one lifts up their thoughts the whole life can be transformed. The whole vibration is lifted up and now one can do the “impossible.” Our universe originated in the mind of God. The universe is sustained by that mind power. Ideas become projected into form.

It is possible to overload the mind as well as overloading the stomach. Thoughts must be digested in a similar manner to the food we eat. Living old and discordant thoughts can jam up our mind and our bowels. Living old thoughts can keep the new thoughts from coming in. St. Jude Thaddeus directs the emptying of the intestines in the work of elimination. This center is very sensitive to thoughts about substance and materiality. A tense mental attitude on material life will cause constipation and other ills of the abdominal region. A relaxation of the mental attitude will bring release in bowel action and better digestion.

The will operating in the front brain controls the circulation of the life force to every function of the body. A tense will can restrict the life force from assisting in the success and functioning of every action of our body and our lives.

A set determination to succeed in a profession, study or personal ambition can call most of this energy to the head and starve out the other processes of the body. (”The Twelve Powers of Man”)

A week ago I saw a bumper sticker twice, “Let go or be dragged.” How appropriate in our days of confusion and great changes happening each moment.

Let the powers of the infinite adrenals and the promise of our World Beautiful teach us to live in the divine flow and help to give us the power to create peace and goodwill on our Great Mother Earth.

Excerpts from my book “Christmas Meditations on the Twelve Holy Days December 26-January 6″ by Merry C. Battles

1982 God favors all creation equally. His love knows no limits or boundaries. He cares for His spirit man/woman equally and with no judgment. He delivers His will through every individual and every living creation on this planet and in our universe. His word becomes our word through thought and speech. We become co – creators. Energy lives forever, to be used again in different forms. God loves us and wants only the perfection in which He created us. There is only One Will. Maybe our “free will” is demonstrated in how we react to what’s happening. (”Is God’s Will What’s Happening?”) Do we accept the hand of Spirit in every action of our lives, or do we fight “the flow” at every turn, sometimes fighting for a whole lifetime?

We live to understand the workings of the Lord and to accept and cherish every breath we are permitted to take. Freedom comes when we accept all. God’s will is always working through us.

IS GOD’S WILL WHAT’S HAPPENING?

God’s will is what’s happening,
Happening at every moment.
Only One Will, as Father Mother God
Uses us for heavenly work.
All in divine order,
Our lives unfold.
Free will is our reaction to the Lord’s plan.
Do we choose to love it, or **** it?
Is it my will or Thy Will? Truly only One Will.
Surrendering means accepting all
As sent from above.

1983 When the adrenal glands are fully active, they provide the necessary power for any physical feat. They are symbolic of the greatest strength and courage that any person can have. They are the helpers, promoting enough energy to accomplish what is needed. They transform the idea into powerful action. If we had faith and knew the truth, then all things would be possible. God wants to give us the Kingdom and use us to cleanse the world. He wants us to be set free in love.

1997 Our lives are interwoven with those who need our words and deeds. We are placed exactly where our highest learning is, right where it is needed. The truth is that God’s law of love is always working through us, no matter the appearance. Our egos take on “power plays” that are needed for our evolution. A seeming cruel, harsh decision becomes a blessing in disguise. On ego levels, people are hurt and lives shattered, to only later be born again in a newness not dreamed of. In the midst of this hurt, hearts and emotions are all working together for the good.

1998 Our lives are unfolding at rapid rate. Our lessons are manifesting faster and faster. The law of karma is speeding up, and the payback is much faster. No longer can man be able to get away with injuring others without the truth surfacing much faster. Lies cannot be told; truth will prevail. Truth will be unleashed. No more dark corners of deception. The “information highway” is symbolic and a literal expression of this reality. No one can hide from the truth. When we hurt each other or the planet, we will have the payback much sooner. All karma is being evened out, as the Libra balance of scales comes into justice.

Each cell of Mother Earth and each cell of our bodies are being transformed and awakened to the divine light that is inherent within. All the upheaval that we see in our world is indicative of what is going on in each one of us. We are here to face our maker, our mistakes, darkness, selfishness, and egotism. We are here to balance good and evil and to look at these dualistic ideas as all necessary for our higher learning. When our lives are in harmony, we will learn through love and joy. Our suffering will be finished for a time, as we express the universal attributes of Spirit. Our planet will once again be the shining globe of light spinning through space.

The arrogant, greedy, power hungry people of the world will also have to face their Creator. Those who destroy will be destroyed. Those who **** will feel that same ****. Those who deliberately take food away and try to kill this earth will be punished.

Our words will become all powerful, and in an instant the harm wished on someone else will boomerang right back onto the sender. The love will come back in that same instant. Which will you choose?

Our brothers and sisters are truly us. The human family is a family of One Spirit. Choose where your minds will be, and there your hearts will follow. Look for the unity of head and heart: masculine logic and reason coupled with feminine compassion and love. Woman will take her rightful place next to man. The qualities of love and compassion will come to the forefront to save this planet.

The world is literally in our hands. What will we do now? Pollute and poison her or nurture and clean up what we have done? The greed has to stop! The fast buck will be buried in the trembling cities. Be watchful of what you do, how you think, where your hands are working. Are they working for the good, or do they participate in the destruction?

Are you destroying yourself with a long held anger, a desire for revenge, or a hurt buried deep in your soul? Are you punishing yourself for your own actions, or for belief systems placed on you from someone else that have translated into an unloving attitude toward self? Forgive the attacker. Forgive yourself. Feel the anger, feel the pain, and then LET IT GO! If you do not know how to forgive, hand this over to the Great Spirit and ask to be filled with divine forgiveness. It eventually comes.

The time is now. The hour is upon us. Have compassion, as all of us are in the same boat. Find peace within and the whole planet will be that peace. Ask for help from your angels, unseen guides, Spirit, your mighty “I AM” presence. “Ask and Ye shall receive.” Spirit moves when we ask. The “still small voice” speaks in the silence. Now is the moment to listen.

2002 The dream of peace is within. It is carried to those around you. The ripple becomes the mighty wave. The droplet becomes the ocean. The tiniest seed transforms into the tree of life. This tree is within us, waiting to grow. The clouds are seeded, and water drops as rain. The rain brings the mysterious rainbow. The colors reflect the greatness of each ray of light. We are truly blessed at every moment. God Goddess watches all!

RAINBOWS
Each ray of sunlight shows us the rainbow.
When our Lord promised us a rainbow,
He left hidden that all light from our sun
Comes to us in all colors of the spectrum.
Making it certain
That all places on earth
Are the ends of rainbows.

“All know that the drop merges into the ocean, but few know that the ocean merges into the drop.” (Kabir 1450-1518)

2003 “We have our plans, and then there’s God.” (Margie Battles, my mother). We have all that is necessary for faith to enliven. We plan, we search, we prepare. Then all of our plans go awry. It is our planning that sometimes shows us ego and not the divine will. Timing is everything. If it is right for us, it happens. If it doesn’t happen, it might come along in a better form, when we are ready for its completion. Do your work. Then the Will of Heaven will transform and all will be for the good.

©2008Merry C. Battles

Merry C. Battles has worked in the healing arts since 1977. She has practiced the art of massage, Jin Shin Jyutsu (an ancient form of Japanese Acupressure), CranioSacral Therapy, Reiki, and foot reflexology. Merry is the author and illustrator of Christmas Meditations on the Twelve Holy Days December 26-January 6 Merry’s book is a compilation of her 26 year meditation journey with the twelve holy days. Her book can be used all year as we travel through each sign of the Zodiac.

Merry has been a student of the ancient mysteries for as many years. Her greatest joy in life, along with her grandchildren, is to learn about the spiritual. This is reflected in all of her work.

http://merrybattles.com/ – http://walkingthespiritualpath.com/

Did you know we are living here on the surface of the planet on borrowed time? It is true because an Asteroid strike could easily wipe out life on the surface of Earth. Each year scientists discover 100s of additional, never before plotted asteroids that are over 100 yards across.

Some believe that it was a NEO or Near Earth Object that hit Siberia in 1908, it might have been an asteroid, it leveled everything in an area well over 1200 square miles. What if that happened in the middle of Europe, China, India, or the United States? What if something much larger impacted Earth?

It is estimated that every 200,000 years on average there is a major asteroid, meteor or comet strike on Earth that causes a life extinction event. NEOs are serious business and mankind must develop technology to defend our planet from something like this. One book that I recommend to all amateur astronomers who wish to learn more about comets is:

“Hailey’s Comet” by Patrick Moore and Heather Couper

Comets are made of rock, Iron and/or ice and they travel thru the solar system at about 100,000 mph whatever they hit if and when they finally do hit something, there are huge fireworks indeed. Hailey was noted in 1759 A.D. and it has a 76.3 year cycle.

It’s only one comet, there are many we know about and some we may not because they do not give off a glow or they have never been anywhere near us while we have had this modern technology that can help us see them. Please consider these thoughts, as it is a problem we should be working on.

“Lance Winslow” – Lance Winslow’s Bio

If you have innovative thoughts and unique perspectives, come think with Lance; http://www.WorldThinkTank.net/

The Chinese Zodiac Astrology is ancient, interesting, accurate and loved by millions across the world. The Chinese Zodiac is based on cyclic concept of time : a cycle of 12 years, repeated again and again. The 12 Years are associated with 12 Celestial Animals : Rat (or Mouse on Mongoose), Ox (or Buffalo or Bull or Cow), Tiger, Rabbit (or Hare or Cat), Dragon, Snake (or Serpent), Horse, Goat (or Sheep or Ram), Monkey, Rooster (or Hen or **** or Chicken or Phoenix), Dog and Pig (or Boar or Hog). The animal names occasionally differ with the Oriental Country they originate. The Chinese Yearly Horoscopes are basically built around these 12 Animal Signs.

Your Chinese Astrological Zodiac Animal Sign is directly based on the Chinese Lunar Year of Birth that you were born. The Chinese New Year is mobile and could start anywhere between 21st January and 20th February, depending upon the year. If your Date of Birth falls into any of the following Chinese Lunar Years, then, because you are born in the Year of the Tiger, you are symbolically identified by your Celestial Animal, the “Tiger” :

From 08 Feb 1902 to 28 Jan 1903

From 26 Jan 1914 to 13 Feb 1915

From 13 Feb 1926 to 01 Feb 1927

From 31 Jan 1938 to 18 Feb 1939

From 17 Feb 1950 to 05 Feb 1951

From 05 Feb 1962 to 24 Jan 1963

From 23 Jan 1974 to 10 Feb 1975

From 09 Feb 1986 to 28 Jan 1987

From 28 Jan 1998 to 15 Feb 1999

In Chinese Hsia Calender, 2007 is the 4704th year and significantly, is also the fourth year of the New Feng Shui Land Luck Cyclic Period 8. The forthcoming new Chinese Lunar Year is from 18th February 2007 to 6th February 2008. The next Chinese New Year, the Yang Earth Rat will begin on 7th February 2008.

Enjoy the Annual Forecasts and learn about the suggested Feng Shui & Crystal Remedies that you may need for the coming “New Lunar Year 2007 : Ding Hai, the Year of the Yin Red Fire Pig” :

CAREER A good year where opportunities can be turned into excellent success with hard work. Enough chances around for demonstrating your personal strengths and special skills. You are fairly well placed for receiving advancements, promotions and monetary increments in your profession. Time for you to set targets and reach them too. But do not stretch your luck too much – be realistic lest you burn out yourself. Over-confidence will only over turn you. At the same time, complacency or insensitivity for others will break many good relationships and make new enemies in your working environment. Getting back-stabbed is a reality. Continue to maintain your lively, active social network and you will greatly benefit from it. But learn to distinguish between friends and foes. New found friends should be kept at arms length until they have proven their worth. Do not rely on your clouded judgements, seek the advice of your parents or mentors when you sense trouble. If you have a female boss or a female business partner, you will do exceptionally well this year. The glamour of success will also bring gossip and jealousy. Just keep your emotions balanced. Many of you will keep losing your personal belongings like mobile phone, wallet, key rings, etc. this year. To derive the maximum benefits, to avoid disruptions in interpersonal equations and for protection, display the figurine or photo of Kuan Kung in your North West. You will do better if you are a trader, actor, speaker, poet, music composer, singer, teacher, preacher, lawyer, astrologer-diviner, dentist, beautician or philosopher. All this said, it should be highlighted that you are in damage-formation with the Year TaiSui, this year. This means you are disturbing a war-like energy formation called Annual TaiSui (or Grand Duke Jupiter) and because of this you will be having some serious property loss, get into litigation, attract discords and draw blood. So, whether you are self-employed or a salaried worker, you are in dire need of the blessings of the TaiSui this year. Display the genuine, energised photographs of “Feng Ji, the 2007 TaiSui” and the “TaiSui Protection Talisman for 2007″ in the North West and carry their miniature versions in your pocket or purse, for minimising the severe negative impacts that you are likely to suffer this year. Do not attend burial ceremonies or cremation rituals this year.

MONEY Money flow will be quite handsome and well in proportion to your efforts. Some of you may even receive surprising doses of bonus income. Investment opportunities will be plenty but be choosy and do it wisely. Make efficient use of tips on share movements, but allow yourself be influenced only by the merits of the case and not by anything else. Exercise extra precautions when signing contracts or agreements. Otherwise, you might get into legal disputes or serious economic loss. All money matters should be accounted for clearly and dealt with in a cold, detached, business-like manner in order to have a satisfactory outcome for you. Do not lend money, especially to the opposite *** – if you have to, give it with the knowledge and generosity that it will not be returned. An excellent year for you to buy new properties. Warning : do not indulge in spur-of-the-moment purchases but have a reality check on your expenses. Manage your finances carefully and wisely to save extra cash for next year. Sudden travel plans at the end of the year might consume quite a lot of money. Keep three powerful “Four Heavenly Kings Coins” at home or office, to prevent money erosion.

HEALTH Average health. Keep away from sharp metallic objects. If you were born in 1998, you will be accident prone this year. Some of you might experience problems in eyes, skin, appendicitis, liver and urinary tract. Pay good attention to what you eat to avoid food poisoning. Stay away from physical clashes. Wear a Malachite Crystal Pendant, energised and programmed for you, exclusively. There could be additions or deductions or both in the family, this year.

LOVE The year generally favours marriage, child-bearing and rebuilding bridges of relationships. Singles should make use of this opportunity and build stable equations for marriage. Avoid procrastination and stick with your decision. However clash with Peach Blossom luck will also trigger frustration and anger. Success in career might kindle your ego too. All these could lead to disharmony, if you are not attentive, open and communicative with your spouse. Open admiration from colleagues of opposite *** or frequent meetings with working partner or team associate of opposite *** will invite serious gossips. Unless you balance your feelings and stabilise, you might be trapped into a situation of losing all that you have gained at home. Remember to separate your work karma from your family karma. Display a pair of Pink Mandarin Ducks in the South West of your bedroom.

STUDIES Excellent academic results. Many will shine in extra curricular activities also. Some of you will enjoy sponsored study trips abroad. However over-confidence and self-conceitedness might bring down your ranks heavily. Accept parental supervising and benefit from it. If you are a female born in 1986, you should resist seductions and concentrate fully on studies only. If you are a female born in 1998, avoid going to lonely places on your own or walking all alone in the night. Wearing a Black Tourmalene Crystal Pendant programmed for only you, is recommended.

Birthstone : Ruby Good Relationships with : Horse, Dog & Dragon, for 2007 Conflicts with : Snake, Ox, Monkey and Rabbit, in 2007 Polarity Force : More Yang Lucky Numbers : 4, 5, 7, 9, 13, 34, 44, 45 and 54 Zodiac Protector : XuKong Zang or Akasa Garbha (Sanskrit)

A NOTE ABOUT REMEDIES :

The above analysis has suggested some remedies/cures for reducing the impact of negative energy and has recommended certain enhancers for increasing and improving upon the beneficial energy of the year. For the remedies/enhancers to be effective, they should be cleansed, energised, blessed and programmed not only for the particular individual/family but also for the specific purpose/problem. They should also be placed in the indicated location, to derive the maximum benefit. Any or all of these remedies can be reused for the forthcoming new years, but they may have to be repositioned according to the specific new year.

Janarrdhana Guptha is an Energy Consultant, Kabbalah Energy Numerologist, Crystal Master & Clairvoyant Karma Reader. His speciality is permanent Karma Energy Correction through custom-built Crystal Energy Fields. His E-Mail : crystalvaastu@yahoo.com. His website :http://www.crystal-vaastu.com/home.htm & http://www.newage-kabbalah-numerology.com

A great tool to help you find out more about yourself.

Chinese feng shui horoscope is based on twelve animals which represent you depending on the year you were born. Feng shui horoscope is an ancient reading of people’s personalities and the influences which nature forces have on them. According to this, each year is represented by an animal and its characteristics.

Each one of us has a feng shui horoscope animal representing us according to the year in which we were born. Our personalities and the way we interact with others will vary according to this, since the way different animals interact will vary according to their nature. Each animal representing us is based on characteristics of the real animal which is applied to the human beings.

The twelve Chinese feng shui horoscope animals are: rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, goat, monkey, cock, dog and pig. Each one of these animals have a specific personality type, and you could find many of your own features reflected in the description of the animal which represents you, as well as you can find descriptions of the people who surround you through the animal representing them too.

Besides providing you with information regarding your inner being, feng shui horoscope tells you about with which other persons represented by their animals would you tend to have harmonic relationships and with which others not. Some animals interact harmonically and some tend to have problems in their relationships.

The feng shui horoscope animals can be grouped as opposites. Each animal has an opposite and they are: rat is opposite to horse, ox opposite to goat, tiger opposite to monkey, rabbit opposite to cock, dragon opposite to dog, and snake opposite to pig. This does not mean that animals which are opposite could never have an harmonic relationship, but that they might tend to it.

Feng shui horoscope can provide you with a very interesting resource of knowledge about human behavior and their relationships. It is based on traditional knowledge, which has anciently been consulted in the oriental world. Therefore, feng shui horoscope is a very important resource to have into account at the time to learn about ourselves and the way we get along with others.

About The Author

Jakob Jelling is the founder of http://www.fengshuicrazy.com. Please visit his website and learn all the feng shui tips you’ll ever need!

In vedic astrology the Dasa sequence start with the South Node, Ketu.

Ketu dasa - 7 years. First and foremost the Ketu’s job is help us complete the karmas we are finishing in this life. His job is to give us only what we need and take everything we do not need in order for our soul to develop. Worldly success is just as possible in Ketu dasa as any other, but much of the time they are things that only last through his dasa and no further. Again, this is because he gives it so we can finish with it, then he takes it when his dasa is finished. Of course losing things in life usually does not feel very good, so many times on either end of Ketu dasa, people are suffering, as something is about to end. But Ketu only hurts us if we are too attached to things that are unnecessary. Ketu supports esoteric and healing careers like Astrology, Yoga or other sacred healing practices. Mostly though, his dasa is hot and fast and can make life seem out of control. People should always avoid making long-term commitments at the end of Ketu dasa, as life is about to change drastically. If we are too attached to a meaningless life of materiality, Ketu can hurt us deeply. His dasa follows Mercury who is a very worldly planet and a builder, so often times the worldly gains of Mercury are parsed by the South node and his need for a Spartan existence. Ketu is a malefic planet and a cruel one so his energy will feel harsh, even when he is giving good things.

Medical indications of Ketu Dasa: Ketu can give Mars type of accidents and diseases as well as mysterious illnesses, muscular or nervous system disorders. Psychologically he gives self-doubt as well as a hyper criticism of all he is associating with.

Venus dasa- 20 years. Venus is a time when we will mainly seek worldly happiness and a loving partnership. Coming after Ketu dasa, Marriage is often a theme in Venus dasas or a marriage that has more loving qualities of Venus. Wealth is also an important theme as are Women, children and other people in general. Venus as a benefic will want to give things to us and we must be careful not to fall into the worldly quality of her charms and sensual pleasures. Although Venus is Mother Lakshmi, the Goddess of beauty and wealth, Venus is also the great caretaker and her dasa will make us take better care of people or ourselves or make us aware that we are not doing a good job in that area of life or that we are not being treated with the courtesy and respect that we deserve. She is a Brahmin, a teacher, and she would like to teach us in a gentle way, but unfortunately, we do not learn life’s deep lessons when we are happy in the world, as Venus would like us to be. We generally only learn when we are suffering. In being a caretaker she would like us to be of service and that also means service to God, as Venus is also the main planet of devotion and a higher path of surrender. This great benefic would like to give us the kingdom of God an a silver platter (with a good meal!) Even when we suffer during her dasa there are lessons to learn and it is as gentle as possible.

Medical indications of Venus dasa: As a kapha planet she can give illnesses related to internal organs, mainly of the reproductive system, STD’s, as well as the kidneys, diabetes.

Sam Geppi is the author of “The Ascendant – 108 Planets of Vedic Astrology” – recently #2 on Amazon.com in Vedic Astrology books. He is the exclusive Vedic astrology columnist at Astrology.com and has written the annual 2009 Vedic Astrology forecasts for MSN Worldwide since 2006. His astrology articles appear in astrology and yoga magazines worldwide. Visit his website for many free astrology Classes and astrology readings

It is truly unfortunate that NASA is cutting its astrobiology research divisions down to a minimum as if we are truly going to explore the Universe with human manned space exploration vehicles and research teams we will need to know as much as possible about what we are getting into. So if we go where man has never gone before and boldly so, we may find our selves SOL when things go wrong, without the knowledge that the teams and researchers at the NASA Astrobiology Labs can bring to the table.

Additionally the things we learn from the Astrobiology studies at NASA have cross over and transfer technologies worth their weight in gold for the forward progression of the species and solving some of the dilemmas which plague our species in the current period. The NASA Astrobiology Labs offer us insights we can get no other way and the chance to cure disease and make new discoveries in medical sciences, which we will need in the future to survive.

Further if we are discover new life on other worlds and especially in our own solar system we need to know what we are looking for and make sure that what ever we do find whether it be the smallest virus or even intelligent life that it is indeed compatible with our human biosystems. I hope you will consider all this in 2006.

“Lance Winslow” – Online Think Tank forum board. If you have innovative thoughts and unique perspectives, come think with Lance; http://www.WorldThinkTank.net/. Lance is a guest writer for Our Spokane Magazine in Spokane, Washington

Astrology

Astrology is in short a superstition that originated in Babylon around 1000BC. Having a look at the movement of the planets the ancients believed that the position of the planets during your birth determined your life. Though there are more complicated permutations behind the belief, the basis is the movement of the planets along the band of stars we know as the Zodiac.

Astronomy

Astronomy does not underline the existence nor does it recognize Astrology as anything but superstition. Astronomy focuses on the scientific study and mathematical calculations of everything above and below us. Astronomy is based on scientific evidence. Though there are many unexplained theories, they are mostly based on educated guesses originating from earlier observations and calculations.

Zodiac

The band of stars centered around the ecliptic, the area through which the sun appears to move. Appears to move, as the Earth is actually rotating around the sun. This movement and path, creates the illusion that the sun is doing the movement.

Astrology and Astronomy differences.

As pointed out the first is seen as superstition, the second as science. Astrology used 12 star signs to divide the zodiac and Astronomy used 13 signs. The constellation of Ophiuchus, the Serpent Bearer is a stretch of sky through which the planets and Sun seem to move. The fact that the year only has 12 months could have influenced the decision to leave out Ophiuchus.

In Conclusion

The predictions made by Astrologers are sometimes mind boggling correct, yet you will not find an astronomer that takes Astrology seriously. The contrary is my personal observation. You hardly find an Astrologer able to show you the planets in the sky. The vast distances in space make the influence of the planets on any living human a very debatable subject.

Leon is the inspiration behind the OZYMANDEUS concept and if this article was of interest go and find out more what else you can discover. Go and visit : http://ozymandeus.com/landing.htm