Blessed Lammas

Lammas day (Lughnasadh) is one of the four main festivals of the year, The BIG four include: Imbolc at the beginning of February, Beltane on the first of May, Lughnasadh or Lammas in August and Samhain in November. Lughnasadh marked the beginning of the harvest season, the ripening of first fruits, and was traditionally a time of community gatherings, market festivals, horse races and reunions with distant family and friends.  With those who are of Celtic descent, in rural america, Lammas was one of the primary holidays of the traditional year.  It was the time when families and communities would begin to earnestly prepare for the winter months.  It is believed that this is the time of the year that many of the kingdoms in the “other realms”, transition power.  It is said that this is the time to make your petitions known to the spirits of the woods, for they are more generous on Lammas.  

Traditionally it has been seen as the time when the Oak King (Oak representing strength, growth orientation and determination) relinquishes power to the Holly King who will rule from Aug 02 until Yule on December 21. The first half of the year is recognized as a time of growth and forward momentum, motivated by the ritual of Suspension on Dec. 21. But on Aug 02 the male energy changes and symbolically the Holly King (Holly being a parasitic plant grows and is maintained with the strength of its host, in this case the momentum gathered in the first half of the year motivated by your suspension, sacrifice and inclusion) takes over. Now is the time to allow yourself to relax and go with the flow. Allow all your hard work of the beginning of the year to move you forward, enjoy the harvest. The challenge for most of us is to get off the push wheel and get into the cart allowing the momentum to carry us through the rest of the year.

In more modern and urban world, it is still important to honor the old traditions as truth is truth and the only thing that changes are the seasons.  So if you would like to honor and recognize this very old spoke in the wheel of the year, here are some ideas.  

1.  Reset your altar to recognize and honor the God Lugh, granter of success and mover between worlds.  You may do this for a temporary time changing it back after the holiday is over.  

2.  To your ability, climb a mountain or a hill.  This has several reasons, one of the primary ones is the symbolism of your climb during the year and the reaping of the benefits of your hard work.  When you do so take time to sit and listen, look and take in the vibrations of the moment.  Leave the locations exactly as you found it, when you get home write about your experience in your shadows or mirrors.

3.  Make or buy a grain product, like a gingerbread man, corn bread or cookie, shape into the form of a person.  Offer to the gods and goddesses, then consume the food.  Envision any and all things in your life that no longer serve your better good being processed through the universe and going on to places that better serve them as well 

4.  Drink, as you are able, a small glass of red wine and as you do envision all good things coming to your, all your hopes dreams and the results of your hard working coming to pass.  Offer thanks to the universe for its infinite good.  

5.  If you have it, place mugwort on your door.  This serves as a protection, a blessing and an offering.  

6.  At the end of the day light a white candle, and burn sandalwood incense.  While you do this spend time sending positive energy and thoughts to those who need it.  Take the focus away from yourself and shine the universal spotlight on those who are in need.  
7.  Make a wicker man and symbolically offer any of the obstacles you have endured during the past year to the universe.  My tradition does not burn the effigy, we bury it.  Some traditions use beltane as the time to do this and that is perfectly fine.  

Remember, it is the intent of your spiritual work that matters.  If your tradition does not call for any of these things either amend them or do them anyway, stepping outside your spiritual box can be empowering and freeing.  

May you and yours be blessed during this time of the harvest, may you be surrounded by protective spirits and may your journey be easy.  

Blessed Lammas 

Altars, Spiritual Giants and the Cookie Monster

One of the primary aspects of my spiritual life is and always has been Altar Magick.  As a young child in the south it was very common to see “good christian folks” practicing this form of spirituality.  Sometimes they were aware of the ancient influences of the wise on their lovely mantels and center pieces, sometimes they were not, they kept an altar simply because their parents did.  Those who acclimated to the church and overall community were often complimented for their craftsmanship and decorating style, those who were not as “palatable” i.e. think the midwife or root worker of the burning times,  were often given sideways glances, yet few if any dared question or berate them.  

 I vividly remember one particular neighbor when I was a child whom I loved to visit.  Ms. Burkes, she was a widowed woman with two bad kids!  I always thought her sons were funny yet one was always in trouble and one was a mama’s boy like myself.  I would go to her house as soon as I could on Sunday’s.  Not only did she give me cookies, which in itself was enough, but she also had a beautiful mantle in a small room off of the living room.  It was always exciting to me to go see how she changed the mantle, at that time I had no understanding how she deemed it time to change, but she just did.  On her mantle there were a few staple items; a white candle and black candle located on each end of the mantle,  a pretty wooden star that sat in the middle and the cloth over the mantle would change with the seasons.  

Over the course of the year many items would appear, then as quickly be removed from the magickal surface.  She would often have articles torn, not cut, from the local paper placed about.  Those may have been obituaries, birth announcements or just an article about the local quarterback.  Ms. Burkes was very specific about where they were placed and that they remain there.  Often she would have ribbons, glitter and brightly colored pieces of painted wood chips that, to my eyes,  appeared to be scattered about, but in fact were meticulously placed. 

I would spend hours sitting  looking at that mantle.  As I grew older and my own spiritual life began to take shape, my gaze began to watch for entities or beings to enter and exit the mantle, more than just enjoying the pretty candles and trinkets.  My view of her as a kind, helpless old woman changed as I saw her as a powerful catalyst for good.  As I am writing this I think how much I would give just for a few of those items now.  The magick Ms. Burkes worked, in my mind still is working.  

My time with her ended when my family moved a few miles away.  Looking back on those times, I wish I had told her of my fondness for her, my respect for her.  I can still see her arthritic hands and feel them patting me on the top of the head.   One of my last times with her she called me over to her at the small kitchen table and took my fat little face in those worn hands and looked directly into my eyes and said, “Andrew, don’t let anyone tell you how to live your life, you will walk in the unusual ways of your god”.  While it was not understandable to my ten year old mind, my 48 year old memory feels the love and the prophetic wisdom in the old crones words. 

About a year ago I went back to my hometown with my partner to show him some of the locales that held my memories. I was sure the little house would be long gone but felt the need to connect energetically with it.  Driving through my old neighborhood I was shocked at how small everything was, the houses so old and the trees seemingly worn down.  As we rounded the corner there was Ms. Burkes house.  It was exactly how I remember it, yet it was surrounded by items, it would perhaps remind one of a scene from hoarders.  

Knowing that Ms. Burkes would be long gone, we pulled to the side of the street as I sat and drank in the scene.  As we were about to pull off, I noticed an older man standing around the back of the house looking at us, as our eyes met I knew immediately it was Ray, Ms. Burkes eldest, “good” son.  It has been about 35 years since I have seen him, but for an instant it was as if I were walking over to his house on a Saturday morning to visit his mom, as our eyes met he looked down.  He never looked back up, he just stood there.  

As an adult I value and honor Altar work.  I have seen time and again how it can focus intent and magnify magick.  At any given time I will have up to three altars going, and they change as the needs change, as the wheel of the year turns and as my mood dictates.  I also encourage anyone to keep an altar, if only an ancestral altar.  One word of advice, please be versed on what you are doing and how the items placed are symbols of power.  A misplaced item will not bring locust down upon you, however there are time tested ways to get the most of altar work.  

I have no idea if Ray has incorporated Altar work into his own spirituality, I like to think he has.  I can however speak to the influence that old crone had on a chubby faced, nosey little cookie monster so many years ago. Each time I work Altar magick for a friend or client I stand proudly on the shoulders of those who came before, I stand confidently upon the shoulders of Giants and for this I am thankful.  Every time I set a new altar for myself I do so under the watchful eye of those spiritual giants who came before me and some who are yet to incarnate.  I never take this for granted and am humbled by their assistance.  

If you have any questions about altar work or would like to arrange an appointment contact me.  I am delighted to help you with a basic altar or one that is specific to an issue or desire.  

Many blessings and all good things your way. 

Andrew 

Memories from the back of a Honda!

Hello all, 

I was with a friend/client the first part of last week and was just beginning to move into reading mode, the cards were for the most part laid out and we were engaging in some idle chit chat as the spirits were shuffling for position in the room.  

I was looking at the cards on the table and as I had not begun the reading yet a thought raced through my mind, more like a memory that took no more than a second to process.  I remembered back almost 20 years ago, I was offering readings out of the back of my Honda CRX at a music festival in NY state, my cat, Hannah, was laying across my shoulders and the rickety card table was weighted down with way too many crystals and divination tools.  A couple of girls came up and asked for readings and said, "we have nothing to pay you with except a kiss or a $5 gas card, those who know me know I took the Card!  I finished with what I was doing and turned back to them, now seated and we began the reading.  I used, for them, a regular deck of playing cards as they said they believed the Tarot to be of the devil.  ***Not willing to get into that, I spent about 30 minutes, gave them what I could and answered questions......  When they stood up to walk away I felt a sense of dread, like I had lost something important to me.  I knew it was not a message concerning them them so, I went about my day and had a great time. 

Later that night as I was packing things up I noticed I was short a deck of cards, my favorite cards, cards I considered special.  They were not old but they spoke to me and the rapport was a good one.  I knew then that one of the girls from earlier in the day had took them.  I felt anger at first, but then it was as if the universe stepped in and said, "for whatever reason she wanted them so badly, she had to have them".  Now please don't get me wrong I have no problems assertively addressing someone when I feel an injustice has occurred, but for some reason I could only feel concern for the young red headed girl.  For so many years later I would think about her and offer prayers on her behalf, and wishes that she have a good life.  

I was brought back to the present as my friend said, "these are really nice cards".  I thanked her and briefly referenced the deck that had been taken from me so many years ago.  We then proceed with the reading and went about our day.  

Well just three days later she sent me a text and stated that she had something she wanted to drop by to me, we arranged a time and she walked in and handed me a beautiful new deck of cards, the exact type of deck I lost so many years ago.  It was such an unselfish act on her part and I could not come up with the words, I just said thank you.

.  

Later that night as I sat holding the cards and meditating on their beauty, I was reminded of the times in my life were I had not taken the same path as I had with those girls so long ago, when I had felt compelled to act from a place of revenge and not from a place of love.  Those times, while I may have received some immediate satisfaction, I have almost always lived to regret that I had not allowed the universe to work her magic and balance the scales.  

So to the sweet hand of spirit, Ara, you have my thanks and will be a solid positive memory as I continue upon this path of lessons.  I am reminded of the times I have been the hero, and times I have been the villain and I am humbled.  

Continued Bliss 

St. Expedite, Thank You

My work as a spiritual advisor is one that I believe to be a part of my nature.  Regardless of the path life takes me, my belief in cosmic interaction with all life forms will be paramount.  I work with many spirits and archetypes of many faiths.  One that has been a consistent and important companion along my spiritual walk is St. Expeditus or St. Expedite.  

While some in the catholic church attempted to discredit the beloved as the product of a shipping error, yes that's correct, the saint has dug his heels in and pushed over obsticals for people of all faiths and nationalities.  So you see as I have said before, the church does not have exclusive rights or connections with a strong spirit, the spirits decide with whom they work.  

As the legend goes, at the moment of his conversion, Expedite was visited by a crow, the representation of evil, who told him “Cras!”, which is the literal translation of tomorrow or wait.  Expedite responded, “Hodie!” which is today or now.  Up to this point most traditions agree however while it is most widely held that St. Expedite killed the crow, it is the belief of my tradition that he "converted" the crow as a familiar and assistant.  

Our Beloved St will work on behalf of anyone who has an concret understanding of his nature and approaches him with respect.  At the same time be assured that those who would make light of his goodness would be advised not to do so.  

Thus, St. Expedite defeats procrastination, ensures rapid solutions to problems, and promises an end to delays. He gives strength to the faithful in combating unfair deadlines.

Some also believe that Saint Expedite will speed up the arrival of money in your bank account and he will hasten communication with loved ones.  He is not a fix all, however he is a St. who will provide an extra boost to resolution of open issues.  

Always remember to Thank him publicly and privately.  You may post a picture or place an ad in a local paper thanking him for assistance.  After he aids you it is always good to offer him Pound Cake, yes I said Pound Cake, his favorite is Sara Lee.  

St Expedite I am posting this note in recognition of your assistance with three individuals this week who came to you requesting your strong help.  They have each contacted me stating they have made huge strides this week and know that your strength and sense of spiritual urgency have been the reason for this.  Thank you.  

Blessings 

Winter is beautiful, but can be a challenge for man and beast!

Hello All,

It seems as if the winter apocalypse is headed our way, no matter where you live in the northern hemisphere Mother Nature is sending cold and cleansing weather to her children.  While this is necessary on a physical and spiritual plane, it also can prove deadly to human and animal alike if caught unaware or unable to prepare.

I encourage each of you to check in on your neighbors and offer assistance as you are able.  Many times people are too proud to admit they need help and every winter you hear of folks dying in their own homes as they did not have sufficient heat or supplies. 

Also please be considerate of the animals who are living in the elements.  Yes they do have innate tools to protect themselves but we, as stewards of the land, have the ability to aid them and make their lives more full.     

First make sure your own animals are protected, warm and have plenty of food and water.  Bringing them inside is a must when the type of weather we are expecting is coming.  Here in Louisville the low tomorrow is suppose to be minus -4 with wind chills down to -40.  While we aren't the frozen tundra typically, temps such as these are very intense even for the most adequately prepared.  Some extra hay or straw strategically scattered around your homes porches and steps may also provide some additional bedding for your furry friends.

Listed below are some ways to provide some creature comforts to the birds and other wildlife around your environment.

• Sunflower seeds—black oil, striped, and hulled—safflower seeds, and white proso millet
• Vegetarian suet and suet mixes
• Peanut butter mixed with cornmeal, pressed into cracks of bark or spread on a pinecone and rolled in seeds
• Pumpkin seeds (washed and dried in the sun or oven)
• Cut pumpkin shell in pieces
• A straw feeding wreath with wild flower or grass seed heads (sunflowers, purple coneflowers, grass, wheat, rye, barley, safflower)
• Dried, untreated corn on the cob or whole or cracked kernels
• Unsalted popcorn and cranberries, threaded onto cotton string and draped on trees

• Don't forget the water! In winter, water can be hard to find. Make sure your wild neighbors have.

For those who are so inclined, it is also a good thing to do spirit work to offer protection and additional comfort for the animal kingdom during this time.  Listed below are some suggestions and techniques.  Remember when working with spirit there is no right or wrong, you may alter these as you wish.  These are prayers and methods time tested by my ancestors, yet the intent is where the true power lies. Living a spiritual and magical life is very much specific to your own connection with the cosmic mind and spirit understanding. 

There are primarily three Saints who offer animal assistance and protection, there are others but I will limit this to the ones I work with. While they are recognized by the catholic church, the church does not own the rights to work with them nor can the church claim exclusivity.  

1.  St Francis of Assisi:  Francis was born of wealthy Italian parents in 1181 and is seen as the GO TO saint in regard to spiritual assistance with the animals.  He focuses on the animals of the wild.  During times of intense challenges in nature it is said he can be seen walking among the trees, with creatures of all kinds following along behind.  Francis has a genuine and incredibly powerful love of animals, especially those who are misunderstood or feared by man.  Most statues you see in the European church show him surrounded by butterflies and little birds.  In truth he would be surrounded by Wolves, Bears, Birds of Prey and other members of the Bad Boys and Girls of Nature Club.  Be not deceived Francis is a strong and powerful force to be reckoned with when you threaten his children.  

I recommend lighting a brown candle with a symbol of St Francis.  This symbol can be one of the small statues offered forth from the church, this works fine and carries with it his energy and archetypal characteristics.  Keeping in mind his true nature, you may use something more imposing for his representation.  I have used He Man action figures, pieces of wood or stone.  The important thing is that you honor him in a manner befitting a powerful spirit such as St Francis.  While envisioning the wildlife being protected and nurtured in your area so words such as, "St Francis, one who is strong, caring and protective.  I ask that you come quickly to the aid of all wildlife in (state the area you are addressing).  I fear they are suffering and with your assistance this need not be.  Please, you have the power to aid and I have the faith that you will".     Watch the candle burn and look for signs of chatter.  

Know that by the time you have finished this ritual Francis is already at work. 

2.  `St. Martin De Porres:  St Martin was born in Peru in the 1500's.  His father was a Spanish gentleman and his mother a free woman of color.  Martin was a tireless advocate for those who had little, this included animals, primarily domesticated and household pets.  During his time is was common to look at any animal which did not produce milk or food in some way vermin.  St Martin saw the spirit of god in all living creatures, he even had a dog and cat hospital for a while in the house of his well to do sister.  St. Martin will intervene quickly in situations where a household animal is in a dangerous situation.  It was not uncommon for his spirit to be called upon by religious folks of many kinds.  He is a strong component of many southern hoodoo folks and root workers.  

When calling upon help from St. Martin I recommend lighting a silver candle.  If able it is OK to use a statue obtained at a local church supply store, however if you want to do it old school many root workers use a simple bowl of water mixed with sugar and a few drops of cherry juice for color.  When working with St. Martin say these words, "St Martin, beloved companion and champion for those who live among us, yet suffer the weight of oppression.  We know your love for the creatures of the hearth and home.  I ask your help during this time and petition your assistance with_______________.  I trust your judgement and my heart is warmed by your strength".    As always meditate on the wanted outcome and watch your meditation candle and the surface of the water for chatter.  Many tell stories of the power of St Martin and his desire to assist when asked.  

3.  St. Kateri Tekakwitha was born in 1575 in upstate New York.  She survived small pox and lived until the young age of 24 with horrible scars on her face.  Upon her death the scars went away and she was said to have transformed from a caterpillar to a beautiful butterfly upon transition.  Her early childhood with her Algonquin people forged a bond of loyalty and protection to all of Gods creations, especially those of the wood and stream.  She is known to work without tiring when asked to help protect creatures of the wood and is known to appear in the leaves and bark of trees when a portion of land is set to be cleared.  It is believed she is there to usher the animals to safety.  

When Calling upon St. Kateri for assistance an orange candle should be used.  To represent  Kateri it is best to used a fine portion of cloth or beaded material.  As you look at the candle and hold the cloth in your hand recite the following words, "Kateri, Sainted one of beauty. You understand the fear and need of the the animals around me.  Even as you listen to my words you are already working toprotect those of wing and tail.  Your beauty is of never ending and on behalf of our friends you help, I offer thanks and respect".  Kateri will often mark her work with the appearance of a fox or coyote.  Many believe that she arrives and leaves in this form to be unnoticed.  After you work with St Kateri the area you are focusing on is left more enchanted to the point of feeling sacred.  

I encourage you to use these methods to ask for protection and comfort for our animal  companions.  Remember that intent is what truly matters and the nature of these strong spirits stand at the ready to assist when called upon.  I believe it is good spiritual manners to thank them by an offering of sorts, the best a public thank you.  As simple as Thank you St Kateri for your loving help, written on a slip of paper and placed in a public place.  

As I sit writing I hear the wind blowing and pulling at the windows of my home, the only other sounds are the steady breathing of my little spaniel.  I am certain he is dreaming of chasing the cat or going for a ride in the car.  Pulling him closer to my leg I am warmed by thoughts of thankfulness.  I am thankful for my humble, yet warm home.  I am thankful for my loving friends and fur friends who share my life.  I am thankful for a partner who loves me and brings light to the cold dark days of winter and I am thankful to the creator and all those of ascended spiritual stature who bring more magick into my life.  

Until next time stay warm and continued Bliss,

Andrew