It's a long flight from here to the Moon for just a wee Crow!

The moon will be in her fullness on the 5th of March at approximately 1:05 p.m. est.  This moon will be of interest for a few reasons.  

1.  She will be at her furthest point from earth of the year.  The Crow Moon will be about 30,000 miles farther away from earth, than say the Super Moon which will next occur on September 28 of this year.  Scientist call this moon the Micro Moon or Mini Moon.  In this state the moon tends to exert less of a gravitational pull than in its closer state.  The spiritual result offers a chance to pull latent emotional baggage from the closet of your psyche, open it, and process through it piece by piece.  

2.  While different cultures have different names for this full moon, I like the Crow Moon, this full moon is in Virgo and ruled by Venus and Saturn.   The Sun at this time is in the star of Archernar, a very happy and strong position in the tail of the great mother Bear, or "the rivers end".  This will be a perfect time to recognizer the completion of goals and to set your intentions for the next three months.

Therefore as is always  the case in our beautiful universe, balance will ultimately be had, though we may feel a bit OOB for a moment.  Be mindful that being in this heavenly locale, in the Mars Nature, can heighten some emotions and tempers.  No dire warning just be mindful.  Count to ten before responding to a sticky situation and if you can stop yourself skip chiming in regarding volatile issues on social media. 

In the past this would be when young folks would begin training and learning about the stars and the connection between the earth (crops, food and resource gathering), Air (the gods, goddesses and ancestral magic), Fire (the Stars, the Sun and fatherly influences), and Water (emotions, magic, maternal aspects).  This now sometimes is refereed to as “A year and a day” training.

My recommendations during this time are:

• This is the perfect time to re set your altars, or begin a new altar schedule.  The intent set during this phase will continue to magnify over the coming months and the altars will vibrate more noticibly and work done on these holy spaces will appear to magnify   

• If you have been contemplating reaching out to an old friend or revisiting a hobby or interest from the past, now is the time to do this.  Those true connections in your life are timeless, and any issues causing the lull in the friendship or constant involvement are washed away during this time.  So pick up the phone and call your old BFF

• Those of us in the Northern Hemisphere are moving toward the spring season, it would behoove us to do our own spiritual spring cleaning.  Do you have a book or books you picked up you have been meaning to read, if so now is the time.  Any magical tools or jewelry, this would be a good time to cleanse them and place them under the rays of the moon.  

As always if you have any questions Text, Call or Message me! 

To my Year and a Day folks, the riddle is in the content of this post, See you soon! 

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 

Traditional Southern Folk Meditation and Prayer

Blessings,

I offer a weekly meditation/journey called; Cosmic Journey and Meditation, this is done in a very traditional southern folk method.  Over the last 20 years I have offered this group in homes, churches and educational venues.  I have received many emails wanting details on what the group entails.  Often folks really do not have a concept of what it is and what to expect, this blog should provide some clarification.  Since there are many variations to this technique I will just share some of the steps you may take when you come to our group.  

One of my earliest childhood memories is that of listening from an adjoining room as groups of women and men would spend hours meditating and communing with spirit. It was not unusual for this to last overnight if needed.   Sometimes it would take the appearance of an old school prayer meeting, however as I grew up I realized it was a mix of many traditions that were melded together to form a primarily geographic form of spirituality/meditation and prayer.  Learning this, and accepting the beauty in the uniqueness of this path, allowed me to continue my exploration of the complexities of spirit while holding onto and honoring my familial traditions.  

Traditional Southern Folk Meditation derives its core from a geographical belt extending from central Oklahoma east to the Appalachians and south to the Gulf of Mexico, native American practice, primarily of the Choctaw and Cherokee tribes and more mainline faith based traditions, Ranging from Catholicism to the Apostolic (from the 1900's and charismatic movements from the 1970's).  Sprinkled in will be aspects of Wicca and TM components. It has been used for hundreds of years and has evolved into a format not only to meditate in the traditional sense, it is also used to speak with spirit and journey in other realms and planes.  If you were to observe a group of practitioners in the midst of FM, it may appear more like a old style prayer meeting or perhaps a shaman led spirit journey group, with Folk Meditation it can take many faces and is only done properly when led by spirit. No two groups are the same and they will vary greatly depending on the participants, this is one of the beauties of this form of meditation.  Folk Meditation is also key in community and group building,  encouraging us to not only meditate for our own benefit, but be concerned with the well being of our brothers and sisters.  

First it is important to note that there are no rules related to folk meditation, any guidelines are ones that are handed down via family or community traditions.  In my tradition it is very much driven by the elements, astrological timing and assertive traditional prayer techniques.  Realizing there are no rules globally to Folk Meditation, there are time tested steps in each individual tradition.  Keep in mind at this time, you will not likely find groups on every corner.  This technique tended to be closely guarded among the elder of any said group.  It has only been recently that I have found others offering this outlet for spiritual expression.  This meditation is not a religion, therefore it is not unusual for a fundamentalist christian to be seated next to a die hard Buddhist or Wiccan.  There is not judgment, only acceptance only a shared desire for betterment.  

Currently this group is being offered on Thursday evenings from 8:30-9:30 at Urban Unwind.  The address is 812 Clarks Lane, Louisville.  You are always welcome and there is no charge for this group.  

A word of caution, this is not your Aunt Sallies prayer or meditation group.  We are passionate about our work and it is not for the faint of heart! 

  

Here are a few things you may notice if you were to join us for a Folk Meditation group.  

• There will be a cleansing and blessing of the space.  If done properly meditation will make you open to celestial communication and it is important the proper steps are taken to ensure purity. 

• You are encouraged to make yourself comfortable.  You may lie down, sit in a chair or take a more traditional meditative pose.  

• It is usually done by candlelight.  Meditating in this fashion is a sacred experience and the element of fire is considered a holy component.

• Incense will be used.  The incense will correspond with the purpose of the FM and will be reconciled with the other elements of the experience.  The aroma, depending on what scent we are using will also serve to help you journey within or connect with the universal mind. 

• There is often music, chosen in advance to enhance the spiritual connection.  Music not only acts to evoke emotion (water) but it also provides additional vibratory aspects.  (air)  The music may contain words or be tonal only.  

• Colors will generally be involved as they are additional ways to make the connection to spirit.  The understanding of Color in meditation is universal, but in Folk Meditation it is taken a step further by connecting with spirit and acting as a workmate when needed later. 

• A group may consist of one person or one thousand.  The efficacy of the Journey is not judged by the number in attendance, but it is judged by the sincerity of those who are there.  

• The meditation may be a general time to commune with spirit (silent) or it may be specifically driven and directed to an issue or concern (journey).  

• You will be counted down to and Alpha state to encourage the activation of the pineal gland, this is the closest physical representation of the Third Eye. (Silva and TM)

• Spirits will be welcomed and encouraged to participate, and all entities of the light will be accepted.  (Added in the 1890's as a result of the spiritual awakening of the time)

• The person who leads the group will continue to do meditation and journey work for you well beyond the session.  (This will vary and if you have questions please ask your group leader)  Also remember we encourage participants from all paths and we do not judge.  

• On any given day the meditation will change depending on the need.  What remains consistent are the physical, mental and spiritual advantages to basic meditation practices.  

• Each of the above aspects may be altered or planned around the moon or the season.  While these things are important, the need of the individual, group or global need trumps all.  It is not unusual for a member of the group to contact the leader and advise them of an issue needing spiritual attention.  Often this will be incorporated into the guided meditation.  

These aspects cover some of the ways in which we practice Traditional Southern Folk Meditation.  While I can not say each session will include them all, I can assure you that it will be a unique experience and will be good for you in many ways  

Well, I hope that gives you an idea of what Cosmic Journey and Folk Meditation involve.  Bottom line is that the meditation will provide you with spiritual and physical benefits and is a positive way to meet open minded folks on a path to enlightenment.  

If you have any questions just message me and I will be happy to clarify or expand on any of the information provided.Please join us, if you are unable to do so feel free to forward any issues or request you would like worked on during our meditation time.  We are always happy to assist. 

And so it is, 

Reverend Andrew Jaycen 

Why Meditate?

Hello Fellow Seekers,

Anyone I have provided an intuitive reading for knows one of my first questions is, Are you meditating?  If I have read for you a second time the question is, How many times a week are you meditating?  It is my own personal, magical mission to encourage everyone I come in contact with to meditate at least one time a day.  Why...I really don't have the space here to discuss all the reasons, physical, mental, spiritual and on and on so I will stick to why it is relative to meditate if you seek spiritual advice.

When you enter into an agreement with an intuitive or other spiritual advisor, you not only agree to listen with your ears, contemplate with your mind and move accordingly, you agree to open a connection of vibratory realness, hmmm "vibratory realness".

This goes for any type of advisor advisee relationship.  This does not mean that you accept everything you are told, quite the opposite, in fact you should mentally question every word.  However if you take the time to meditate, while contemplating the advice or information you are given the advantages are multiple, just a few:

1.  There is a more clear connection each time you meet with the advisor.  This allows for a more complete flow of information and spiritual connection.  You will have a constant flow of energy with your advisor that is less likely to be polluted by outside static.

2.  Your spirit guides will be more attuned to the situations and realities of your discussions and will appear more clear in relation to your next steps.  Meditation is like having a follow up session with your intuitive.  Keeps everyone on the same page as it were. 

3.  There is less likely to be misinterpretation of the advice given.

Now for my advisor friends, please allow me this indulgence to say; if we are not mediating shame on us.  While we can never be 100% on all our advice, we are not the creator and we deal with free will, we owe it to anyone seeking our advice to be as spiritually attuned and connected as we can.  There are a few things in our daily walk that we can have `100% control of, and this is one of those things. What are the benefits to us? I'm glad you asked!

1.  Meditating helps to clear the way for a free flow of triad communication.

2.  Increasing our ability to focus

3.  Places us in a reverent state of mind and makes us more receptive to the spiritual messages we receive.

OK, I know most of us would love to be sitting on a mountain somewhere or on the beach contemplating the universal mysteries, for most of us that is not possible, so how do we balance our meditative walk.  Keep in mind Andrews Axioms in relation to Meditation:

• There is no right or wrong way to meditate.  The fact that you do it is the most important step.  The correct way will be revealed to you in time, the correct way for you! 
• If nothing else closing your eyes for three minutes in contemplation will be a start.  By doing this you activate your Pineal Gland to become receptive to light without the aid of your physical sight.  This gland is the closest physical representation to the spiritual third eye. 
• Complete quite and the proper posture is not essential.  I do believe they are preferable, but you will achieve your most complete meditative return on investment by meditating as you feel most comfortable.  In my mediation groups I tell everyone this...be comfortable. 
• Incorporate words, colors, sounds and aromas into your mediation when able.  

So there, three minutes with your eyes closed, simply that is it if your goal in improved spiritual communication and clarity.  

In my tradition there are multiple meditations for specific requests, I am happy to share these with you if you contact me.  Better yet consider joining me for mediation, email me for times and locations.  These meditation groups are guided and come from a southern folk magic tradition.  Email me with questions.

My you be blessed beyond your wildest dreams!    

Many blessings

Andrew Jaycen

Planting seeds during the time of harvest!

As we move closer to the season change, I am reminded of the smallness of our world.  It was the summer of 1969 and I was a young child staying with my grandmother on the banks of the Green River.  Usually by this time in the evening Grandmother would have put me to bed, notice I didn't say "to sleep". She knew that it was the darkness and night that brought the more interesting spirits around, and her little boy blue would not miss that.  

On this particular night she stood up from her rocking recliner and said, lets go out and see the men on the moon!!!  We made our way out the front door and down the wooden steps onto the yard already moist with dew.  The night air was cool and the view of the stars was crystal clear.  I still remember the way her hand felt in mine, soft and wrinkled and stronger than any beast known to man or God.  

She stooped down and said, "look, can you see them walking around?"  Never wanting to disappoint her I said, "I think so".  She then explained to me that even though our mental/physiological capacity did not allow us to register that we saw them, we indeed did. I was only around 3 years old but I remember those words, and having absolutely NO idea what she was talking about, but she smelled like sugar cookies so she had my undivided attention.   

We then went back in the house and her phone was ringing, two short rings and one long ring, she had a true "party line".  It was a lady from the next town over in distress.  "Now you go on to bed", she said "I have work to do, and don't forget your prayers".  

As I was told I went back to my small bedroom in her shack, laying on the tiny bed and looking out the window at the large backyard.  To the right I could see the reflection of the moon on the river, to the left the wood line that held mysteries and a world of opportunity.  Directly back from my window I could see the out house with its well worn path.  On this particular night there were at least a dozen rabbits running around.  I watched them for a minute th then off to sleep. 

My dreams were full of fantasy that evening.  Perhaps due to the conversation with my grandmother, or due to the work she was doing in the next room. 

Years later it dawned on me that she had taken me out on the night of the moon landing, she had used a mundane opportunity to instill a magical truth into my developing psyche.  She had planted a seed in me, one that would take years to come to fruition but one that was potent and true. The intent is every bit as important as the anticipated outcome and it does not matter what we see with our physical eyes, its what we direct with our cosmic consciousness.   

In our small worlds it can be easy to forget to plant those seeds.  We spend so much time hunting and gathering, defending and attacking and focusing on the lack in our own lives.

One of the most effect seed planting methods is meditation.  There is no right or wrong way to meditate, it is the intent and focus that is important.  It is also important for us to be in contact with nature.  The manner in which we achieve this contact is irrelevant, it is that we do.  It can be sitting watching your goldfish, your puppy or just looking out the window at the sky.  Do this consistently and with intent to connect.   

As always if you have any questions send me an email or message and I am happy to discuss.  I wish you blessings and light.    

A happy puppy and memories of the Fruit Moon

While it is certain we will have many hot and muggy days ahead, this August in Kentucky has been mild and beautiful.  If you sit perfectly still and allow your senses to engage the magic of season the change is almost palatable.  The trees seem a bit more sleepy and the animals a tad more intense, all in anticipation of the  dark cool days of Autumn.  For me I think of this time of the year as the beginning of the "season of the witch".  

I was sitting in the park yesterday watching my silly Cocker Spaniel puppy play with the other dogs, he rolled down the hill then up he would jump only to be knocked down again.  As I observed his play, my mind wandered to things of the mundane such as: my health, bills, the many projects I could be working on, and other issues.  I noticed my body had become tense, breathing was increased and the happy smile I had possessed just a few minutes earlier had been wrestled from my face, thrown to the ground and had its butt kicked by a worried scowl…YUCK! 

After many years of meditation and spirit work I know that to fight these emotions and thoughts are vain, we must flow with the river not against it.  So putting my focus back on the pups running up the hill I thought again about how they seemed to have no worries, no cares.  Total focus was placed on fun, movement and in the case of my dog, determining who else on the hill had dog treats!  

The full moon for August will occur on the 20th, in my tradition it is known as the Fruit Moon and will be in Aquarius.  Now is the time to take every opportunity to plant seeds for the coming year.  For my family and community this was the time of the year we would acknowledge the relationship and dependency between the animal kingdom and human kingdoms. 

I am reminded of spending time along the banks of the Green River as a child. Every August around the full moon my Grandmother and I would go out to the River, just a few steps down a steep bank  and across some ancient stone steps.  She would carry a big bag of cornmeal and bird seed.  I would wait every year for her to tell me the story of the animal kingdom changing courts and rulers during this season.  It would begin;

Today, today, today

The royal wedding is

Was this why you were born,

Destined for joy by the Gods.

                                    And unto joy of the Gods Designed?

Pointing up at a squirrel she would determine where in the process our furry friends were in choosing a King and Queen.  If they were lazing about that meant they were still in the process of choosing a new king and queen,  If they were scurrying about they had just chosen the rulers for the coming winter and were busily preparing for the long cold nights ahead, sure to have plenty to eat for their new leaders.  

Each time she would excitedly and dramatically proclaim, "The King and Queen have been crowned Long Live The Royals"!!!  When I was young, though it may seem silly, I would get so excited about this.  We would then reach into our sacks of seed and meal and place them respectfully around the banks and bushes.  It was our intention to help the animals around our house to bring an impressive bounty of treasured food to their new King and Queen!  It was a recurring theme with her that we were and are our brothers and sisters keepers.  We should and must look out for each other.  To Grandmother our brothers and sisters included all living things.  The Gods help anyone who would mistreat an animal and my Grandmother found out about it.  My skin still gets bumpy and the hair on the back of my neck stands on end when I think about the Magick she reserved for those who would do such a thing…but that is for a different day!   

The August Moon, while in my tradition was known as the Fruit or Mulberry Moon, later become known as the Dog Days Moon by the early settlers in this land.  Though we now are more European in lineage than native, to my Grandmother and myself it is still the fruit moon and I still believe there is a rabbit, snake or deer out there somewhere waiting to be crowned King or Queen!   

The world in which I lived some 40 years ago, was much different now when one thinks of our relationships to animals.  Many household pets never came in the house, and would never see a doctor.  Our dogs held a purpose, to hunt for food and to stand watch over our home.  This has changed for most of us, I hold to the notion that as we moved from the piscean age into the aquarian age, from a masculine note to a more maternal feminine cosmic note our relationship with animals became more emotional and less utilitarian.  

So in honor of her memory and in the memory of our animal friends who have crossed over the previous 12 months, I ask that you take a couple of steps to honor those beings in our realm who live for the moment. 

1.  As you are able donate your time and/or money to non profit groups in your area who work with animals.  

2.  Go outside to a place you feel connected with spirit and repeat the following words as often as you wish.  While this has been paraphrased a bit, the words, phrases and intentions can be traced back over 200 years in my family.  My Grandmother would recite this (to the best of my memory) every year at the Fruit moon.  Usually spoken in a mixture of Kant and a native tongue.   

Most exalted and illumined ones, 

you who run through the Forrest and meadows with abandon.

You who live in our homes standing guard over our sleeping selves and possessions. 

You who journey with us in spirit as we walk among the realms, ensuring we find our way home.  

You who swim in the waters and fly in the heavens. 

We/I acknowledge your divinity and your realness, we offer our respect and reverence, for you allow us to partake in your worlds experience.  

Oh elevated spirit, I ask that you remove any discomfort, any pain, any fear that may attempt to intrude upon our animal friends.  For we know to live as a creature of the wood, water or air is to climb the ladder to enlightenment.  

So it is So it is……

Many blessings to all and continued bliss!
Andrew Jaycen 

  

Offered in honor of Chief, Fallon, Magnolia, Bubbles, Hannah, Sadie and any and all others who have crossed the Rainbow Bridge in advance of us.  Run, play and eat we shall see you soon.  

Connection with spirit and those around you.

Blessings All,

This morning I just didn't want to get out of bed, it was one of those days.  As I lay there thinking about the day ahead, my mind wandered back to those times I spent with my grandmother on the banks of the Green River.  Every Sunday morning was the same, I would wait until the last minute to get up and get ready for church.  I got my way with almost anything with my grandmother except Church!  It did not matter what I said or what sickness I claimed to be suffering from, and believe me I tried them all, I always ended up on the pew next to her eating Velamint after Velamint praying.....for it to be over.

She always said that not only did we owe attendance to spirit, but we had to attend for the fellowship and communication with our neighbors.  Knowing and seeing what I did regarding her spirit communciation it made little sense to me.  My Grandmother was in continual communication with spirit.  It didn't make sense to me then and to be truthful it didn't much until the last few years.  

A wise book once stated, "Forsake not the assembling of yourselves together".  As my life has changed, the amount of face to face human interaction has changed. I have folks who come to see me daily for consultations and coaching sessions as well as my communication via phone and I would not change that for anything, I love these people. Yet spirit has caused me to pause and take note of the amount of time I have with friends to just sit and chat.

I am very much a community person, I love to communicate with people and simply hear about their day.  I care about my neighbors (universal) and the details of their lives.  For the last week or so spirit has continually brought to the forefront the issue of human connection. Many of my clients lack this face to face companionship. While I have been in situations where I had rather be alone than spend time with people who do not click with me and if this is you I relate, however even the opportunity to learn from those folks is holy ground.

I want to encourage you to make an effort to meet with or meet someone new every week. Always, even with friends, shield yourself with light and peace then as you meet them say to yourself, "I dedicate this to God"(you may use spirit, universe or whatever word you like). Listen to them as you would a wise ascended master or guide, without judgment. When you leave the meeting say a prayer or meditation for that person.  It can be as simple as the one my grandmother gave me to say after any consultation or session:

“Spirit, I thank you for the time you have given me with_________.  I acknowledge that you are working in their life and I thank you for this miracle.  I honor the shift in perception you have placed before me and them.  May you use our time together as a tool for transmutation and transformation for us both.  Where there was doubt I see confidence, where there was fear I see boldness, where there was pain I see comfort.  I honor you and all of your creatures amen”.

While my days are filled with my clients, friends, family and pets, there was a time I knew the sting of loneliness.  There was a time in my life where this exercise would have been impossible for me to do with another human, but I will save those details for another blog.  If this is you, I encourage you to do so with one of your furry friends.  I had a wise old Chihuahua who spent many hours listening to me ramble about my day……and she loved it!! 

The point is movement and intention as no man or woman is an island unto themselves, open the lines of communication and see things change for you. While I have given this a more current vibe, the basics of this come from a time where isolation could be the difference between life and death. In my grandmothers day community was serious business.  While it is not that dramatic in the physical plane now, it may be in spirit! 

Andrew     

The Thank You that Changed the Cosmos!

Hello Friends, 

So those of you who know me know of my love of many things;  my sweets, my animals, my book collection and yes....my coffee.  I was sitting in the coffee house down the street from my house waiting for the caffeine boost I would need to face a gloomy Tuesday morning. As I watch the staff interacting with folks a few  words come to mind such as; concerned, driven, stressed, kind, peaceful, efficient, good.  I  allow these words to waft about my consciousness without censorship or judgement related to their respective definition.  If I were to bring any group of 5 folks through here most likely similar words would come to mind.  As we order our coffee, go to work and interact with others, the universe continues on it's way.  I watch the manager as she navigates the tricky landscape of customer service and employee relations skillfully and with grace.  One phrase is repeated often and with vigor, THANK YOU!

I say that when spoken with sincerity and honesty phrases such as, "Thank You" and "You’re Welcome", can change or alter not only the recipients day,  but it effects the person offering such niceties on a grander scale.  I contend that it not only has an affect on those who are involved in the conversation, but on this entire plane and realm.  You see the universe is the ultimate “web crawler”, constantly looking for clues and directives with which to mold our individual realities.  These realities meld together forming the illusion that is our physical world in turn prompting and triggering brain waves and emotions that are in fact reality.  Therefore one who is constantly in a state of gratitude is a beacon and spiritual magnet for additional realities which are in accord with their own vibratory patterns.   

To bring this back to the Coffee Shop,  the phrase "Thank You".  How do we get the maximum spiritual and creative bang for our cosmic buck?  Are you thankful for objects, if so is this real?  From a metaphysical perspective the only "reality" are the vibratory patterns our brain produces and the resulting connections, expressions and the cosmic language of love.  To be thankful for a “thing” is to send precious energy out into the universe, undirected and unaligned.  Things,  do not in fact exist, emotions and brain energy exist. It is my belief that we can, on a word by word basis, change our own reality and the reality of our world using some simple word shifts.  My challenge to you is this, direct your words of thanks, as well as your emotional investment to the thought that will in fact honor that which is real.  By doing this you will encourage a more direct and instant universal return on your energy prompt.   In addition you will influence the overall magnetic field that is unique to our existence on this planet.  For example;

Coffee Shop Attendant:  Here is your coffee sir.

Me:  Thank You

That is perfectly OK, however from a universal perspective and with an eye toward a more peaceful and happy world this may work better;

Coffee Shop Attendant:  Here is your coffee sir. 

Me: Thank you for your kindness/promptness/efficiency the adjectives are numerous.  

The act of acknowledging what is real i.e. service, kindness etc is a way to prompt the universe into motion, priming the pump if you will.  When you do react in such a manner you are behaving in a way that is befitting universal royalty, the act and reaction of a universal priesthood.  I know it may seem a stretch but I have witnessed its effects over and over again.  

If you believe, and I do, that our reality, our universe as we know it is in fact a dynamic system then the Lyapunov Exponent would tend to apply in this circumstance.  Basically this theory states that the effect will always and ultimately be driven and influenced by the point from which it begins.  The Lyaponuv exponent is often used to quantify the  "Butterfly Effect Theory" that contends a universal sensitive dependency on initial conditions, simply stated, a movement of an insect wing on one continent can change the weather patterns around the world. 

This idea is supported by every major theological system and the mathematical sciences all the way up to and including the chaos theory, all coming to the same conclusion each on it's own path. (this will be addressed in future blogs).

 We, by using the proper verbiage while taking aim with powerful and directed intent, we as creators show respect for our power as such.  These acknowledgments of cosmic reality include;

1.  Acknowledgement of another humans existence and respect for their worth with emphasis on the mirror of their own reality.

2.  Acknowledgement to the universe that you understand what is real and that you are in awe of its beauty and recognize it’s strength.  

3.  Acknowledgement that, what you give.. you receive and that what you say has the creative power of the universe.   That which is real + Acknowledgement + Vibratory Connection or Energy Prompt = Positive Gl0bal Outcome.  

If you aren't familiar with my philosophies or belief system, I can imagine that you are thinking I am a little coo coo or at the least my words are quite a stretch.  I genuinely believe that the most innocent or seemingly simple words or phrases can and do trigger events on a massive scale.  I also believe that repeating certain words or phrases in a manner that is consistent with a universal tone can create positive outcomes on a universal basis, this can be noted in Zen Meditation, Muslim prayers, Catholic Prayers and even what Christians call speaking in a Spiritual Language.  There will be a day when science will possess tools that will measure the power of the spoken word, much like a thermometer measures the temperature of a room.  Using just the correct word in conjunction with the correct tone, intention or vibration can bring positive and powerful results.

No matter your current situation please know that here are people who care for you and see the value you posses.  Sometimes the folks are in the next room, sometimes on the other side of the globe, but they are there.  Do something nice today, even if it is just a kind and heartfelt thank you!  

As always I welcome your questions or comments,

With Continued Bliss

Andrew Jaycen