The Starlit Path

The

Starlit Path

Photo by Emily Toycen on Unsplash

Photo by Aaron Burden on Unsplash

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full beauty on certain days, and shy away from us on ou are walking through the woods. The others. But the seasons affect us differently. ground is covered in snow and the air is “Winter is the time the whole world turns inside. cold. Your teacher’s fieldstone house is Our thoughts become more worrisome. Our days are almost in sight. You step on a small piece of ice and your foot slips. Your arms spiral as you try spent indoors. Our spirits look at the end of the year and try to judge what we accomplished. These short to regain your balance. Your foot goes deep into a days remind us how few of our own days remain. drift. There is snow in your boot.

Don’t be so startled. I’m not dying. But I am. We all You have been coming to speak with your teacher are. Our days of life have been numbered since we for almost a full year, and today is the first day you drew our first breath. Winter reminds us of that.” regret taking this on. The forest is still in morning She paces behind her chair. “You know, there twilight. You stumble back to the path. You can see was a time when people were afraid that the sun the smoke rising from the woman’s chimney. There will be a hot cup of tea waiting, if you ever get there. would disappear, and it would never rise again. They created rituals and holidays to show the sun how to Going to work in the dark. Coming home in the come back and how to shine again. This is why there dark. And when the sun is out, you can’t enjoy it because you have to earn a living. Everyone is fussing are so many celebrations that involve lighting candles and celebrating light during the Winter Solstice.” about what they have to buy and how many people She opens the curtains and you can see the sun are coming for dinner over the holidays. Pull the rising through the trees. “We do this to tell the Sun name for “Secret Santa” and buy a gift for someone that we know there are obstacles he must face, but you hardly know. Somehow, personal growth and that we believe in him. Our candles tell the Sun spiritual calling doesn’t seem to mean as much anymore. You’ll tell her today. You don’t think you’ll we know how hard it all is, but we are here to help them light the world every day. And though our be coming back. She’ll understand. small effort is nothing compared to the Sun, we’ll The woman opens the door. Her long gray braid do our best, until we can do better. I’m sure that he hangs over her shoulder. She’s dressed in her usual appreciates our effort.” She takes her chair again. jeans and a big sweater. She smiles and ushers you The sun creates a halo behind her head. “He must in. She takes your wet things. There are a big pair appreciate it, after all, he comes back every day.” She of fuzzy slippers warming for you by the fire. She shows you to a chair, puts a mug of tea in your hands smiles and sips her tea. “Now, was there something you wanted to talk about?” and a quilt around your shoulders.

You think for a moment. You shake your head.

“I think the winter is the hardest time,” She says “No, everything’s good.” You put down your cup. as she sits down opposite you. “Everything’s asleep.

“Well actually, there was a question I wanted to ask Everything’s stopped. Everything’s still. It can be about the spell we talked about last week . . .” unnerving.”

No obstacle is insurmountable if you strive to walk She refills your teacups. “We are used to the phases of the moon. We know that she will show her The Starlit Path. 

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Photo by Chris Lawton on Unsplash

Welcome to About The Starlit Path

The Starlit Path magazine is a subsidiary of: Star Dragon Press 1105 Mill Hill Laval, QC Canada H7W 1P7

Star Dragon Press, Publisher Judie Troyansky, Editor Robin Patterson, Creative Director

The

Starlit Path

The Starlit Path is published 4 times per year: Spring issue: March 20th Summer issue: June 20th Fall issue: September 20th Winter issue: December 20th See our website for contributor and advertising guidelines: www.starlitpathmagazine.com The Starlit Path is not responsible for any errors or omissions that may occur.

Opinions expressed by authors do not necessarily reflect those of Star Dragon Press or The Starlit Path. Please do not try any herbs or exercises that might interfere with current medical treatments or without advice from a doctor.

Reproduction in any form is prohibited without the written permission of the publisher.

Cover Photo: Robin Patterson

Judie Troyansky, is also known as The Bohemian Storyteller; a strong believer in all types of magic and things beyond the world of the visible.

She learned at a young age that stories are a type of magic; to take something invisible from one person’s imagination and transmit it to another. And so, she became an author.

She bought her first tarot deck over 35 years ago at a magician’s supply house that had a guillotine in the window, and started reading professionally in the 1990s.

An Eclectic Pagan since the 1980s, Judie has since studied with Spiritualist Mediums, and Shamans, and minored in Anthropology in university. As a voracious and critical reader, she hopes to share her curiosity and knowledge with those looking to learn.

 Robin Patterson loves all things craft.

Creative by nature, her artistic skills were nurtured at a young age. She was encouraged to try her hand at many activities, to freely express herself by drawing, painting, crafts, music, writing, gardening, the lists goes on . . .

So she did just that. She wears all the hats, sometimes piled one upon another.

"It's hard to separate the hats. My idea of art bleeds into my writing and seeps into my every expression, my design, and my craft. I was never very good at following the pattern, or the instructions, as my vision could always see so much more in the final result."

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She accepted the invitation to take this journey, as creative director for The Starlit Path, "to learn more about yet another craft."

Inside this issue . . .

Natural Power Sites, How They Arise and How to Recognize Them 16 Meditation—Going to Your Akashic Records 22 The Universal Law of Attraction 46

Inside every issue . . .

Letter from the Editor 6 Letter from the Creative Director 7 Moudrytza’s Pearls 8 Three Card Choice 13 River Rain Ramblings: Holiday Astrology 14 For That Next Cup of Tea: Book Reviews 28 The Treasure Cave,: Interview with Cameron Corbin 30 Walking with The Goddess: How to Set Up a Personal Practice 42 Three Card Reveal 48 Before You Go 57

The Storytellers . . .

Feature Artist: Robin Patterson 24 ’Twas the Night Before Yule 40 The Only Love Story I Know 50 Rooted 53

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Letter from the Editor . . .

Dear Reader

We did it! We made it through our first year. It seems like I’ve been thinking about creating a magazine like this for decades—which I guess I have. It took years of learning, gaining experience, tears, and a final kick-in-the-behind to get this thing off the ground. And that was only 2017.

I am so grateful for everything that’s happened.

I’m grateful to Robin Patterson for working with me and creating each beautiful edition. This magazine would not be the same without you. I am grateful to her husband, Stephane Peters for all the rides to Cornwall so that Robin and I could work face-to-face, and I am grateful to both of you for being amazing hosts. I receive such a warm welcome from both of you when I arrive, and I leave with such a feeling of peace. I can’t even describe how much you both mean to me.

I am grateful to those of you who have sent in your stories, articles and artwork. True, I didn’t publish everything, but I still appreciate that you entrusted us with your work. I’ve been on that side of the email also. Submitting to an unknown stranger can be scary and I have tried to be gentle with your words and your feelings. If I have upset you, I’m sorry. And I wish I could see everyone’s face when they first see their work in print.

I am grateful to those wonderful people who agreed to take on columns. You signed on without knowing where this thing was going and continue to keep the faith, even when I pester you.

You all hold a special place in my heart and I hope that we can continue to work together in the coming years.

And, most importantly, I am grateful to all of our readers. You are why we’re here and you are what keeps us going.

“The Road goes ever on and on Down from the door where it began.

Now far ahead the Road has gone, And I must follow, if I can, Pursuing it with eager feet, Until it joins some larger way Where many paths and errands meet.

And whither then? I cannot say” ― J.R.R. Tolkien, The Fellowship of the Ring Let us continue on—on to our next adventures.

Wishing you all a magical holiday and the best of the best for 2019 Safe travels Judie

The Starlit Path Magazine Winter 2018

Photo by Judie Troyansky

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Photo by Robin Patterson

Letter from the Creative Director . . .

Greetings, Hello again, everyone! It’s been quite a year! Volume I Edition 4!

We’ve come full circle!

I’ve learned a lot along the way—from our contributers, from our editor, but also about myself from this experience. I’m closing in on where I want to go, and what I want to accomplish. Basically I may be on the cusp of discovering what I want to be when I grow up!

No, not that bad, really. I’ve always known I was an artist, I just have never known on which area to focus my efforts. This creativity gets all jumbled and sticky around the edges. It all overlaps and some days there’s just one big mess!

But I’m happy to be living this life, just as it is, and I’m happy to be on this journey with you!

Until next time, Robin

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Moudrytza’s Pearls

by Mary Moroska

Photo by Alexas_Fotos on Pixabay

Because firebirds must thrive in a world that does not accept the fantastical, Moudrytza learned to live as a human. And like the Superheroes you have heard about, has a human alter-ego that she shares with several sisters. Luckily, Mary is able to share our unique energies as she writes, confabulates, teaches, mentors, and counsels with you. She is certified as a professional tarot counsellor, Soul Realignment practitioner, teacher and librarian. And since finding and sharing answers to “life’s persistent questions” is her driving force, she will gladly answer questions and comments: moudrytza@videotron.ca. We would love to welcome you at: https://toutarot.ca; and your like: https://www.facebook.com/TouTarot/

Seasonal Forces

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other extreme. Please do keep your hat and mitts on!

Mystery Voice: (deep and tundra wind Photo by Kira auf der Heide on Unsplash

Management: And now . . .live from ZH@ TT Studios, we join our currently scheduled Fabulous Creatures—our top-rated show— with our very own and very ordinary human—Mary.

Mary: Hello and welcome back! But I am truly sorry that you can’t get very comfortable.

Seems we are having a different kind of heat issue. Last time we were in a critical melting situation and now, this topsy-turvy world decided to send us into the

Photo by Aaron Burden on Unsplash

howling, occasional crystal pops) IS . . . SOMEONE’s . . . nose in need of nipping?????

Starlit Path: Hey, who said that? Sounded like icicles or crystal bells in the wind?

Mystery Voice: It is far too warm here . . . You humans need some more cold . . . Hee-hee. Glad to oblige (Siberian wind howling and cracking of snow sounds are heard getting louder and louder . . . ) Starlit Path: Mary??!! What is going on here? “Nose nipping? . . . Cold winds blowing . . . Who or what has taken residence in ZH@TT Studios? Ladies and gentlemen, if I a correct we are in the presence of . . .

Mary: Just keep cool or in this case warm, Starlit Path. Yes, it seems that Winter is on time and ready for this interview . . .

Mystery Voice: You mean, I didn’t even impress you with my sound effects and climate changes Mary?

Mary: Really? How could you NOT be Old Man Winter or as some have called you Jack Frost? The master of all that is cold . . .

Voice: Thank you for acknowledging my “super powers”, Mary.

Mary: Hey, one must celebrate one’s gifts.

Now, what should I call you? You do have many monikers . . .

Jack: Yes indeed and thank you for asking!

Too many humans would rather use

words that should not be repeated in polite company. Jack is my name and Frost’s my game . . . Finally!!! I can actually use that line. Thank you again, Mary. And as a good will gesture, I will dial back some of that cold. Warning though . . . I am not Summer, but, if you keep your sweater on, you should be comfortable.

Mary: That is wonderful, Jack. And proves that Winter does have a heart . . . Now, let me introduce you to my other studio guest—representing the magazine Starlit Path.

Starlit Path: (eagerly interjecting) Nice to meet you— Jack: Likewise, SP. Hope you don’t mind. Long names make me too warm . . . Short and sweet is the best way, I say.

Mary: So Jack, can we now get down to business? We are gathered here so we can get your side of this issue about all this white stuff that we have to deal with at this time of the year.

Starlit Path: Actually, I would rather ask, because I am curious, how you got that name Jack. Winter . . . Frost I understand. But Jack?

Jack: (laughing uproariously) Oh that . . .

Well it was a long time ago, when most humans did not have individual names; when they were distinguished by their jobs or status in the village or clan. You do know that is why you have so many

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Photo by Pixabay – Stefan Keller

known as Jack Frost.

Mary: Fascinating . . . But can’t you 10

The Starlit Path Magazine Winter 2018

Photo by Pixabay – Larisa Koshkina

materialize and let us see what you truly look like? It is disconcerting to be speaking to a void— Starlit Path: (eagerly stepping in) Yes, Jack!

And I would love a portrait for our readers . . .

Jack: Slow down, Jills . . . Let me explain what I am. Since I am a force and not an entity, I do not have the power to “materialize.” It is humans that have that power. And yes, they do use rather indiscriminately and force it on all sorts of stuff. The story—“Sorcerer’s Apprentice” comes to mind. Anyway,

originally I was viewed a giant and I was called Winter.

Old man winter became a moniker, because humans viewed my time as the loss of vitality much like how they traveled through time and slowed down.

Time passed and humans became nostalgic for the knowledge they have forgotten. But they forgot and tried to “sugar coat” those harsh times, so they tried to make things “cute” and cozy.

Photo by Shannon McInnes on Unsplash

Smiths, Millers, Bakers . . . Don’t you?

Starlit Path: Sure, but that doesn’t explain…

Jack: Oh, hold your hat . . . let me unfold my story in my good time. Anything that moves too quickly causes friction and the result of friction is heat! Not my favourite sensation. Melting . . . not good!!!!! So, let me continue . . .

It was in those days, in the place where humans spoke what you now call English, and in those times when life became more complicated—what your history now calls the Middle Ages, every male was referred to as Jack. You know—“Jack of all trades”: someone who can do anything;? “Jack O’Lantern”: someone who looked after the communal light. And all the Jacks in your Nursery rhymes . . . Yes, all the girls were called Jill for the same reason.

So since my job was Frost, I became

Photo by Pixabay – Lilawind

Fairies and sprites were friendlier than huge giants. And so they started to call me an elf or sprite. Look up some of the poems from the late Victorian Era. Mary: Sounds like you feel you were “demoted” . . .

Jack: (fiercely) I DEFINITELY AM NOT CUTE! The forces that I control are deadly and need to be respected!

Mary: So, Jack, tell us about those forces.

Jack: My assignment is to change the world! But it must be done in a sustainable and renewable way. Mother Gaia, like all her creations, needs time to rest and replenish her vital forces. To her I am, if you will, similar to Morpheus as the Greeks called my cousin. But a planet has many components and the timing can be tricky. So, with the help of other entities, I remind the trees and their kin, to change their clothes and find their sleeping robes. I call the sun and the stars to a reunion and we dance our celestial celebration of what you call Winter solstice – the longest night of the year. And most importantly, I tuck Gaia in, so she may sleep. For my snow and ice keeps her both warm and still, until my strength and forces wane and it is time for her to begin a new world.

And lest you think this is cruel and unthinking, please remember that when you sleep, you too, are at liberty to

dream and then start a new adventure upon awakening! And if you intend to and live your dream you DO change your world. True, the trick is to go to sleep with an attitude of “how can I make tomorrow better?” Otherwise, one wakes up grumpy and defeated by what one has left behind. A lesson, that humans desperately need to ponder, I might add . . .

Mary: Wow! Thank you, Jack. What a great way to end this encounter.

Starlit Path: Jack, I wish I could shake your hand… It was definitely a privilege to hear your story . . .

Jack: Shake my hand??? I think NOT! (Laughs heartily) You wouldn’t survive, puny human . . . But I do appreciate the sentiment and I’d better eclipse myself before I melt in your studio and cause a short circuit or several . . . (Laughter getting fainter and fainter) Starlit Path: Well, that was interesting.

Never a dull moment here at ZH@TT Studios, right Mary.

Mary: Love my job! You know, I think I will take my camera and go out.

Find some interesting traces of Jack . . . Coming?

Management: And this concludes this episode of Fabulous Creatures. Until next time enjoy the pictures Mary sent back . . .



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Three Card Choice

by Madam Tealeaf Photo by Robin Patterson

Madam Tealeaf escaped to England in 1917, at the start of the Russian Revolution. She perfected her English and began reading cards for some of the crowned heads of Europe.

Through the 1920’s, she worked with some of the most famous occultists, including A.E. Waite, and Dion Fortune.

On October 13th, 1922, Madam Tealeaf was creating a spell using the Wheel of Fortune card and a beverage made from a recipe sent to her by a follower of the Voodoo Queen of New Orleans, Marie Laveau. There was a flash of lightening, and Madam Tealeaf found herself in the 21st Century.

She is currently under exclusive contract to The Starlit Path and can be reached at madamtealeaf@starlitpathmagazine.com .

What do our readers need to know for the Winter?

Choose a card. Madam Tealeaf Reveals All on page 48.

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River Rain Ramblings

by Clairvoyant Medium Catharine Allan

Photo by Max Bender on Unsplash

Catharine Allan, also known as River Rain, is a Clairvoyant Medium, Spiritual Life Coach, and Artist. A gifted Medium, Astrologer, and Tarot Reader, she currently runs support groups for women. She has also run healing retreats, Catharine studied and practices Vipassana meditation, sound healing, chakra cleansing, guided meditation, reiki, Bach Flower remedies, and gem stone work. She currently lives in Montreal. Her radio show can be heard on Monday nights at 8 pm EST on Facebook or www.mixvibexradio.com She can be reached at river.rain.catharine@gmail.com

Holiday Astrology

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he Sun arrives in Capricorn for the solstice on the 21st of December and on the 22nd we have a full moon in Cancer putting us in a strong family mood. Cancer is the mother of the zodiac and Capricorn the father – so no wonder we are so focused on traditions, family life, providing for and feeding everyone!

Let’s take a look at this season’s planets to get an idea of how this holiday season will go.

I will define the holiday season as December 1st to January 1st.

Uh oh! We start the holidays off with a nice Mercury retrograde in Scorpio which will be finishing on December 6th. We had better make sure we mail out our cards and gifts on time, but more importantly we need to recognize that people may be in a more introspective mood at the onset of this 14

month. The day after Mercury goes direct we will have the new Moon in Sagittarius, so whatever has been building up may be said. This can be a good timing to wait and discuss something, or it could just be blurted out without a plan. The airs will be cleared in some way.

We also have the True Node entering Cancer for two years, bringing us into a more empathic and nurturing state than the previous position in Leo wanting to shine and have a spotlight. So things are softening and becoming more feminine overall. To add to this, we have Mars moving into Pisces all month (November 15th to December 31st). Venus now direct entering Scorpio again, will add to the watery feminine energy alongside Neptune and Chiron which are still in Pisces. Water signs want to have deep conversations about emotions, spirituality, or creativity. They

The Starlit Path Magazine Winter 2018

Artwork by Catharine Allan

don’t want loud parties or shallow talk, and they want to be comfortable and well fed.

We may do well with smaller more intimate gatherings this year—with good wine and background music!

On the 12th Mercury is going into Sagittarius and joins Jupiter, so the mood is going to be uplifted then. We may see a good window for the party atmosphere that week until the Sun enters Capricorn on the 21st and the Full moon in Cancer on the 22nd brings us back to the domestic and grounded energy once again. It’ll probably be back to the watery vibe again for that week – calmer, intimate, maybe even hermiting for some of you (skipping the party to have good ME time.)

Mars in Pisces will have brought us a more gentle or even passive energy these past six weeks. Hopefully it will have generated more compassion and patience in all of us, tolerance and trusting our intuition more as well. When it arrives in Aries on New Year’s Eve get ready for a big party though! With Jupiter and Mercury in the fire sign energy of Sagittarius (November 8th, 2018- December 2019).

We may want to really let loose that night!

Overall the energy ending this year has a nice quiet quality for those who like that.

It would be a very bonding holiday season for anyone willing to open up more and really listen to each other. Water energy can go the other way too if people bottle up all that feeling. However it has a vibe of calm this year mixed with outbursts of partying and clearing the air in a quick way. If you were to pick one thing to focus on it would be the Mars in Pisces energy that connects to our North node in Cancer. Focus on the oneness of All Beings and compassion for all – and include yourself in that present  Honor yourself this holiday season friends.

Happy Solstice, Merry Yule, Merry Christmas!



If you are inspired by Astrology I will be teaching online courses in the New Year!

Please email me to sign up at river.rain. catharine@gmail.com



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How They Arise and How to Recognize Them

by Charles Shahar

N

atural power sites are places where energy is especially concentrated, usually because of the way it is directed or funneled by the surrounding environment.

When I say “energy”, I am referring to both physical (electrical or magnetic) forces and more subtle forces, which I will describe shortly. In the rest of this article, I sometimes use the term “telluric” (derived from the Latin “tellus,” pertaining to the earth) to refer to such currents of earth energies. I also describe power sites as vortex sites, since the two are sometimes synonymous.

Telluric currents often arise because of specific geophysical characteristics of the landscape. These geophysical factors interact with fluctuations in the earth’s magnetic field, the solar wind, the moon’s gravitational pull, and meteorological phenomena (abrupt changes in air pressure, electrical storms, etc.) to create high-energy environments.

There are three types of geophysical processes that alone or in combination can create a natural power site. The first condition involves the ways in which natural elements in the land (minerals, metals, underwater streams, etc.) interact with one another or with the atmospheric factors described above. Another condition relates to the ways in which particular qualities of the landscape funnel energy by virtue of their alignment, shape, or size.

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Photo by Luke Stackpoole on Unsplash

Natural Power Sites

Finally, incongruities in the landscape can result in energy concentrations. For instance, certain landscapes—such as rivers in deserts, mountain lakes, seaside cliffs, isolated hills surrounded by plains— are all places where telluric energies are unusually strong.

These energy currents have a physical component, and are also manifestations of prana or vital energy (also known as ch’i in Chinese philosophy); with particular intensities, momentums, and directions of force. The energies at such power sites have a distinct effect on the chakras, the energy centers of the subtle body. They raise the kundalini energy, what is known as the serpent fire, to the point where a person may feel introspective, spaced out, or even spiritually transcendent.

Power sites are places where the consciousness is given an opportunity to rise to dimensions beyond the mind level. That is what gives them their special quality.

I can create a meditative environment in my living room, but it will often take at least forty or fifty minutes until I begin to deeply connect to a higher consciousness and transcend the mundane field. The remarkable thing about natural power

sites is that you can get caught up in their currents of energy, and literally feel their power carry your consciousness upward to some very sublime heights. No wonder native peoples have looked upon such sites as sacred, and have built elaborate mythologies around them. Anyone with even a hint of spiritual sensitivity will be attracted to their power. For some, the experience may even be life-altering.

How to identify a Power Site How do you know if a place has a special power?

There are certain sensations that you can feel if you tune in. Your experiences in these places may feel dreamlike, surreal, deeply peaceful, very joyful, or wondrous.

You may feel lightheaded, giddy, spaced out, very calm, or elated. You may experience feelings of floating, disconnection from your body, or you may lose track of time. The more training you have in spiritual practices, the more impact such sites will have, unless you have a natural sensitivity toward such atmospheres.

There are also tangible physical or material signs of these power places.

Energy vortices represent spiraling currents of concentrated energy. In areas where the

Power sites are places where the consciousness is given an opportunity to rise to dimensions beyond the mind level.

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concentrations are particularly strong, the trunks and branches of trees will twist in a spiral. For instance, the juniper trees around Sedona, Arizona often display such a quality. These trees are sometimes prone to twisting as a result of harsh winds, but not in the exaggerated fashion we see in this area. It is also noteworthy that these trees will appear twisted in some spots but not in places only several yards away, again suggesting that localized vortices of energy are at work.

Another sign that a site has a particularly strong energy field: unusual formations in the landscape, which may appear surreal or otherworldly. The rock formations, mounds, or hills will have odd shapes, or may seem strikingly symmetrical. There are not just geophysical processes at work here, such as wind or water erosion, but powerful telluric currents that mold the landscape into bizarre forms with an ethereal quality.

Further indication that the energy in a particular location is very powerful relates to unusual lights or sounds witnessed even by people who are otherwise not sensitive to the more subtle dimensions of such environments. For instance, floating orbs of multicolored light, luminous clouds, incandescent streamers, or brilliant fireballs have often been reported around 18 

major power sites.1 Observers have also reported a strange type of glow or radiation that seems to be emitted from rocks or other formations in the landscape.2 There have also been reports of humming or buzzing sounds.3 Perceptual distortions are common at such sites. For instance, some have experienced areas within a power site where there was almost total silence, or sounds seemed to be muffled or vague.4 There have also been reports of heightened sensory perceptions: seeing a remarkable clarity about the atmosphere, or a particular vividness of colors. In such cases, the prana in the air is so pristine, yet concentrated, that everything seems to take on a vibrant sheen. The person would likely have difficulty putting into words perceptions that transcend appreciation of a strictly material reality.

Also often found in these sites is a proliferation of vegetation, which may grow in places that would otherwise be 1 Devereux, Paul. Earth Mysteries. Judy Piatkus Ltd., London, 1999, pp. 46-48.

2 Tyberonn (Tipton, James). The Energy and Geometry of Sacred Sites: Grids, Vortexes and Portals of Gaia, the Living Earth. Star Quest Publishing, Reno, Nevada, 2011,, p. 69.

3 Tyberonn, 2011, op. cit., p. 138.

4 Tyberonn, 2011, op. cit., p. 81.

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Photo by Riccardo Chiarini on Unsplash

remarkably barren. The plants live partly on the energy or prana abundant in the atmosphere. For instance, Tyberonn mentions how in the case of Enchanted Rock in Texas, trees and plants can thrive on solid rock surfaces, even when water and nutrients are scarce.5 On the other hand, if plants grow at a power site on decent soil, they will seem remarkably lush and plentiful. According to John Michell, there are also certain plants that are attracted to power sites, including mistletoe, the yew tree, and the thorn.6 In high-energy sites, the plants may also attain astoundingly large proportions, as in the case of the famous giant vegetables cultivated at Findhorn in Scotland. This achievement was gained mostly through the cooperation of nature spirits who dwelled in the area, and who helped the Findhorn gardeners achieve stunning results from what was once just a sandy patch of soil—including 40-pound cabbages, and a broccoli head that was so large it took six people four months to eat it.7 The plentiful nature spirits who dwelled there were 5 Tyberonn, 2011, op. cit., p. 75.

6 Michell, John. The New View Over Atlantis. Thames and Hudson Ltd., London, 2001, p. 93.

7 Knight, Sirona. Empowering Your Life with Natural Magic. Alpha Books, 2004, p. 75.

attracted to the high-energy ambiance of the site. Scotland as a whole is particularly vortex-rich.

Finally, a power site may have bizarre weather phenomena associated with it.

For instance, electrical storms may be particularly fierce, or the weather very changeable. Perhaps the most spectacular weather phenomenon found around such locations relates to peculiar cloud formations. For instance, saucer-shaped lenticular clouds can often be seen around powerful mountain vortices. Photographs showing these clouds hovering above such mountains, or sometimes covering their peaks, are spectacular. The sacred Mount Shasta in California is often shown in this fashion.8 Lenticular clouds are partly created by the vortices themselves. Even more-rare types of cloud formations, such as funnel- or ribbon-like clouds, also sometimes appear around vortex sites.

More About Power Sites Natural power sites are often starkly beautiful, or have an unusual quality about them. Their energy is so powerful, it can even be suggested through a computer 8 Hall, Judy. Crystals and Sacred Sites: Use Crystals to Access the Power of Sacred Landscapes. Fair Winds Press, 2012, p. 44.

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Photo by Tom Barrett on Unsplash

monitor or printed image. But it is only by visiting such sites that you can really appreciate and absorb the intense energy they radiate. Many of these sites attract both pilgrims and tourists, for different reasons, although both groups are ultimately drawn to the underlying power of these places.

There are certain countries and regions that have a proliferation of natural power spots: the Southwestern United States (particularly the Four Corners region), Bolivia, Peru, Argentina, Chile, Great Britain, France, Spain, Italy, Greece, Egypt, Ethiopia, South Africa, Israel, Turkey, India, Tibet, China, Indonesia, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, and Hawaii. Some of these places have an ancient quality, representing the primordial energies that have existed there since well before hominids started populating the planet.

However, just about all countries have power sites. In fact, there are innumerable major and minor power sites or vortex locations situated throughout the world, including in such remote regions as Antarctica.

There are a number of factors related to natural power sites that are interesting to note. For instance, the energies such sites generate are not necessarily stable or regular. Sometimes there are intense vibrations emanating from these places, and at other times the effect is weaker. Telluric currents are changeable, and they often 20 

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times particularly transcendent.

Finally, most natural power sites, particularly those in remote corners of the world, are attractive for faerie-type beings.

These creatures live in a parallel world to humanity, but often shun the company of people whose vibrations seem heavy or coarse. Genuine pilgrims to sacred sites may be considered with less caution or revulsion, as are the native peoples of these areas, who are often connected to these subtle beings through the visions of shamanic elders. These nature spirits are part of the energetic fabric of a place, and their presence can be felt in a subliminal way if a person has a particularly refined disposition.

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ABOUT

swirl, flow, or radiate in ways that are difficult to predict. Such differences can be due to fluctuations in terrestrial magnetic and electrical fields, the influence of weather patterns, and the impact the solar wind or the moon’s gravity exerts on these energy currents.

On the ethereal side, such fluctuations sometimes result because the veil between the physical and subtle worlds becomes stronger or weaker. The fraying of this barrier happens naturally at dawn and dusk. However, there are other times during the day and night when the subtle world manifests itself more strongly than others, and it is difficult to say why this is.

Naturally sensitive people may feel more out of it or withdrawn during such periods.

I find that if I do not meditate then, I have lost an opportunity to connect more deeply to inner spaces.

Another factor that influences how strongly energy is felt at a natural power site has to do with the individual who is experiencing it. Sometimes we are more sensitive to subtle ambiance than at other times. However, in a true power spot, even if you are feeling distracted or tired, you will still feel its “blasted” energy, particularly if your subtle senses have already had experience in picking up such vibrations, or if your nature is sensitive generally. In fact, it is almost guaranteed that you will leave the vicinity feeling very differently: sometimes invigorated, at other

AUTHOR E H Charles Shahar is a clinical psychologist by training and social researcher by profession. He has lived and studied Vedanta philosophy in India and has taught yoga and meditation to diverse populations for more than 17 years.

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Meditation—Going to Your Akashic Records

by Judie Troyansky Akasha is the Sanskrit word for space/ time or ether. The Akashic Records can be seen as the cosmic consciousness for the planet and records the lives of everyone who has been here, is here or will be here in the future.

This is a place outside the general arrow of time. Therefore, it’s the place where you can research your past lives, get answers to current issues and see what your future lives look like. I recommend only researching your own records. Accessing someone else’s without their expressed permission can be a violation of their trust and their secrets. So, unless you don’t mind someone else peeking into your complete history, including your daydreams and your private thoughts, stay out of theirs.

In this issue we will show you how to get to your Akashic Records. You can use the method in the sidebar to go into the meditative state. You might find yourself traveling upstairs. The staircase opens into a quiet country road.

You follow the road for a while until you come to a very large building. This is your own private movie theatre. Your name is in lights on the marquee. The ticket-taker is one of your guides. You might not be able to see them clearly. That’s okay. They can see you and they will find a way to make themselves known by either a sound or a smell or something seen out of the corner of your eye. Tell them what you want to know about so that they can prepare the film you are about to see.

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Go through the doors. What does the theatre look like? Is it a sleek modern facility of glass and chrome? Is it a classic building, filled with antique lamps? Does the place smell of popcorn with a huge concession stand or is there a person walking around offering snacks from a tray around their neck or a cart?

The theatre’s walls are painted with portraits and animals. The walls decorated with movie posters. These are your protectors and your guides through the wild places. You can stop and talk to them here or come back and meet them at a later time. They might be the subject of your research on this visit.

Ask the question of your guides. What do you want to know about? Do you have a question about a fear and how it originated?

What about the history of a relationship?

(Just remember that you will only be able to get answers on your views of the relationship and only be able to act as an observer.)

It’s time to find your seat. The movie with the answer to your question is being set up as you get comfortable and prepare to watch the film. Using a film allows you to act as an observer. Everything that you see has no direct bearing on you at this time. If the action on the screen leaves you feeling too emotional or you see something you don’t want to see, just leave the theatre.

You might find your guide gives you a book or a scroll instead. You might need to read something or study a photo

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Photo by Jeremy Yap on Unsplash

Meditation isn’t complicated There’s no need to sit with your legs crossed or to kneel, staring at a wall.

You can meditate sitting, standing, or lying down. Read both parts of the meditation through first and follow the steps or record the full meditation for your personal use. Just remember, whenthe recording, to leave space between through experience. steps to allow yourself time to visualize the actions.

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Relax. Close your eyes. Breathe in through your nose to the count of four, hold for the count of four and then exhale through your mouth for the count of four. Relax your shoulders. Relax them a bit more. Let all the tension pass from your body.

Now imagine the number ten floating in the air in front of you, level with your forehead. Picture the font and the color of the number, if it glows or flashes like a neon sign. When you see it clearly, move on to the number nine. Imagine its color and font and its behavior. When it’s clear in your mind, move on to the number eight. Continue in this manner until you get to the number one. At this point you should be in a meditative state. You can continue with other meditations from here. If thoughts come forward. Push them aside for the moment. If outside noise disturbs you, just come back to counting your breath as we did earlier.

or painting. Will the answers be easy to understand? Not necessarily. Meditations like these deals more in the non-verbal part of the brain. Let feelings come. Let the images come. They will give you your answers.

When you have all that you came for, thank your guide as you leave the theatre or return your book or scroll. Make your way out of the theatre, down the country road to your elevator or staircase. Go back down the stairs, counting from one through to ten. Wiggle your fingers and your toes and open your eyes.

I would suggest writing out the meditation as you experienced it without judgment or interpretation. Once it is on paper, leave it for a while and then read it again. It may give you insights that you might have missed while you were going

Taking the Stairs When you begin to create meditations, you’ll find that you have a desire to work on your own hidden shadows or you will want to work with a guide. What I do, is create a staircase, escalator or an elevator to get me to my desired realm.

When I want to work with divinity or with a guide, I will go upstairs. To work on my shadows or to find an answer within myself I will go downstairs. Sometimes I’m not sure where the answer lies, so I follow a path and see where it leads.

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The Silence Inside, by Robin Patterson

Your Words Echo, by Robin Patterson

I AM THE ARTIST Anything is possible.

I can paint your hair red, or orange or blue for that matter.

Who you are to me is more important, more honest, than who you make yourself to be.

Your hands can flutter useless before your face, you can try to hide the stains upon your brow, but I can see them, and I will paint them, if I choose.

Or I can make them into something else altogether.

Anything is possible. ~ Robin Patterson

Held, by Robin Patterson

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There is Always a Way Out, by Robin Patterson

Thin, by Robin Patterson

THIN I wasted so much worry, so many hours.

Thin hands pulling tiny jeans over jutting hipbones.

Fingers finding areas that were soft, searching hard for such and living on diet sodas…only diet sodas.

Every mirror told me I was fat, and I walked around with my head down hair in my face hiding my eyes from the reflective pools of other, thin girls’ eyes.

And they were all so thin.

I’ve grown into myself, but sometimes I want that thin girl back.

So to remind myself I look back at those pictures with awe and total disbelief.

How could I have been so blind?

How much of my life has been so wasted! ~ Robin Patterson

Someday is Here, by Robin Patterson

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Pendand, by Robin Patterson

PAINTING May I be so bold as to suggest that this empty paper is but a solid wall, stronger than brick between us.

As I draw and fill the page with images bright and colorful, or timid and dark, then this wall becomes a painting.

As you watch my brush and pen fill the empty corners, this wall becomes a window, or a mirror.

You will choose, not I. Circular, by Robin Patterson

Should you choose window, then you are not locked in your room but may step through into mine.

Or should you choose mirror, it will reflect all you finally need to see when you at last believe in me.

And either way, my art is glass. ~ Robin Patterson

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Esmeralda I, by Robin Patterson

Esmeralda II, by Robin Patterson

AB OU

Esmeralda III, by Robin Patterson

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ARTI ST E TH

Robin Patterson is an artist, writer, teacher, graphic designer, the list goes on. She spends her days juggling hats and trying to figure out which muse is the loudest at any given moment.

“I am not special. I am only a conduit.”

She has no idea where ideas come from, and sometimes can’t even remember how they got out into the world.

You can view more of her work here: https://robinpatterson.myportfolio.com/ and here: https://crayonboxcollective.com/

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For That Next Cup of Tea Book Reviews with Lilyana Shadowlyn Photo by Andres Iga on Unsplash

Liliyana Shadowlyn discovered her love of reading at a young age and pursued it by minoring in literature when she went to college. She has learned to embrace what she loves, including reading, renaissance festivals, costumes, and spending time with her husband, friends, and family. You can usually find her curled up with a book and a cup of tea.

You can find more of her reviews at www.thefaeriereview.com.

Non-Fiction: Tarot for Beginners: A Guide to Psychic Tarot Reading, Real Tarot Card Meanings, and Simple Tarot Spreads

by Lisa Chamberlain Rating: 5 out of 5 fairies Review: I’ve been interested in and reading tarot for years, self-taught by books I found and of course, the all-powerful internet. I found this book when a friend asked what book I would recommend for beginners, and I was genuinely impressed. It makes the tarot accessible for beginners, without ‘dumbing it down’. It’s also a great quick reference if you’re familiar with tarot but still a little shaky on card meanings.

This starts with a brief history of tarot, but its something that can be skipped if you aren’t interested, as it doesn’t take away 28

from the main parts. A brief section that gives a very broad basic overview of the cards follows. Namely the difference in major and minor arcana, and the general significance of the differences.

For me, the next section(s) are the most valuable. They introduce the cards individually, each given their own page.

There are illustrations from a classic tarot deck accompanying each card explanation, which aids in remembering. The regular card meanings are in-depth, which will allow even a novice to sound more experienced. Based on my experience with the little info packs that come with tarot decks, this is much more educational. The reverse meaning is much shorter, but in my experience that isn’t unusual.

The last section focuses on tarot readings.

Unlike a lot of tarot reference books I’ve stumbled across this one has more than just tarot spreads and what each card in the spread signifies. The emphasis on practice,

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and intuition, on not worrying if you aren’t perfect the first time is more important than I can really say. Tarot has a certain aura about it, which can be intimidating to the uninitiated. This is followed by more tips and encouragement for performing a reading.

There are two tarot spreads covered, the Three Card and the Celtic Cross. It’s basic, and something you could find easily online. It’s what follows this to end the last section that is important. Finding and buying your first deck (I know there are some superstitions about this that are not covered in this book), getting acquainted and attuned to your deck, and setting up a space for a reading.

Overall, this is both an excellent book for beginners and a great quick reference guide.

If you’ve been considering getting into tarot but have been too nervous or unsure if you’ll be any good, check out this book.

You don’t have to already be speaking to the spirits to learn and use tarot and perform readings. This book makes tarot accessible to everyone, and that’s what I love the most about it.

Buy it: https://amzn.to/2CIdn2O 

Fiction: The Maiden’s Song (The Seeds of Hope)

by Douglas Pierce Rating: 5 out of 5 fairies Review: This is a book I stumbled by on Facebook and decided I had to read it. It exceeded my expectations and was a very engaging read.

The first in a series (the next installation will hopefully be appearing in 2019) The Maiden’s Song captured me from the start.

Mouse is a compassionate dreamer, who loves music and is just trying to survive in a world that seems bent against him. Seldy is a spunky girl who loves animals and her life with the circus, the only home and family she has ever known. Together they will learn just how strong they are, and secrets about their pasts that may hold the key to saving their future.

The Maiden’s Song isn’t a light tale, but it is a fantastic read. The tension is palpable, and you’ll find yourself walking in the shoes of Mouse and Seldy, lost in their magical world, where elves and orcs are real, where good and evil, and the fate of the world hangs in the balance.

Indeed a tale for the ages, The Maiden’s Song will wrap you lovingly within its pages and keep you spellbound. A brilliant debut for what is sure to be an excellent series, you’ll want to curl up and lose yourself in a tale spun to rival the adventures in Narnia.

Buy it: https://amzn.to/2qekJnu 

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The Treasure Cave

by Georgina Wolf

Photo by Robin Patterson

Georgina Wolf has been a practicing Witch for as long as she can remember. She recognized at an early age that she had an ability to heal and work with ‘unseen’ energies. She is a qualified Homeopath, Bach Flower Practitioner, and Spiritual Adviser. She describes herself as an eclectic practitioner specializing in empowering the individual. Georgina has a passion and talent for guiding others as they discover their paths, which is her inspiration behind the FB page she founded. She not only manages her page but is highly active and supportive in her community . . . if you can’t find her Witching in her study, she will be interviewing for The Starlit Path Magazine, or in her sacred space dedicating her work. Come join the discussion on FB at World Soul Witchery - Natural Magick, Pagan, Spiritual, Alchemy & Sorcery.

Interview with Cameron Corbin

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or our Yule Publication I was honored to interview a very happy and bubbly Cameron Corbin. I couldn’t help but to laugh and smile with her as I could literally taste and feel the love and healing she pours lavishly into her foods. Cameron’s connection with her Native American Ancestors was palpable.

I most certainly will be taking on her tips and advice with reverence. I do hope you enjoy our interview as much as I did.

Georgina: Hi Cameron, thank you so much for allowing me to interview you. I’m absolutely thrilled to introduce you as our Recipe Guru where I believe you will be creating recipes combining your Native Teachings for The Starlit Path magazine

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on a regular basis. Welcome aboard! How exciting our interview is for the Yule season too. ‘Tis truly a time to celebrate with our loved ones.

Cameron: Hello and thank you for the warm reception, I’m honored and excited to be included in this very special Yule issue. I’m thrilled to be a part of this beautiful publication.

Georgina: Cameron, could you tell us a little about yourself please?

Cameron: Of course, being of Native American descent, I was taught the love and respect of Mother Earth and Her magical bounty. We take no more than needed. As a tribe we would gather with gratitude and take life in absolute respect and reverence. My great-

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great-great grandfather was Shaman of his small mountain village. Sadly, due to war and military, our families name was changed for colonization. Very poorly kept records led to true native names being lost.

However, the legacy lived on. His daughters were handed down the ways of ritual, healing, using the resources of land— the elements for blessing and nurturing life. My great-great grandmother became the midwife for our mountain area. People came to her for medicines and healing, prayers and blessings.

Georgina: It is a shame the records were lost during warfare and colonization but in the same respect, incredible you hold such a legacy. Is the small mountain village still there? Where is it?

Cameron: Unfortunately, the village is long gone. The area was known as Shawneetown which sat alongside the Shawnee river by the Great Falls. The area is now known as the Cumberland Falls in South Eastern Kentucky. My family settled in the mountains and foothills of Daniel Boone Forest. To this very day the falls is still considered sacred by the locals. The moonbow that is visible under full lunar cycle is revered.

Georgina: Your family sounds strong?

Cameron: Yes, say for instance, should a person fall and make a mistake—let’s

say steal—GGma would gather family and friends of said person, cast a circle of salt, and sage the entire group. The person that chose the bad path would be lifted up.

Each person would step forward to lift up and tell the lost spirit something beautiful to remind them of the good and positive they bring to the energy of the universe. Then a meal of cornbread, fresh churned butters, beef and barley stew, baked honey biscuits, apples cut to expose the star or pentagram. Those apples were baked in butter, honey, lemon and cinnamon. Following the meal, a fire was set. We would sing and dance to celebrate the return of a lost soul that chose the higher path.

Georgina: Goodness! There is a lesson here for all of us. I wonder how strong our families and community units would be now, if we treated our close ones with the same love when they strayed off the path—as I’m sure we all do at some point?

Cameron: I agree! How our world would be so different if we came together in positive affirmation when one of our own falls.

Georgina: When you say the star side of the fruit, could you explain further? Are there other fruits that have a star?

Cameron: Legend has it that eating from the star side of the fruit renews a broken spirit and heals with the magic of the stars and ancestors.

Then a meal of cornbread, fresh churned butters, beef and barley stew, baked honey biscuits, apples cut to expose the star or pentagram.

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The star side of an apple is exposed when you cut across the core of the apple through the middle. The only other fruit I know of that has a star is the Caribbean star fruit.

When I baked with my GGma, as I call her, she would pull me into to the song of the butter churn. She would have made this when our family gathered for fall harvest.

“Pitty, pitty, pat, the song of this an’ about that, Butter, butter, come and soon.

Protect my babies for all moons.

Now and ever, ever more, All those from me bore.”

I was 3. She was 103! GGma was tall and very wiry, she never stopped working, she would walk daily, and had a magnificent diet.

There is a side product of fresh butter known as Butter Milk. With these blessed ingredients, two amazing recipes would be made for our Fall Harvest—Cornbread and Buttermilk Pies. South East Kentucky Kitchen Witchery at it’s best.

Georgina: I love that!! How beautiful; to sing an intention whilst you are cooking. It’s wonderful you were taught at such a young age, too. Your GGma was 103 and clearly still active? Testament indeed to a healthy way of life.

Cameron: Oh YES! I thought we were just as rich as the richest, when actually 32

we were poor mountain folk. The richness of our magical legacy is what my child’s eye saw when I gazed upon this beautiful crone. Her hair long and white, and eyes so brown as that of a doe. She always smelled of vanilla, and she loved her pipe, and me. I was known as Sissy and was the apple of her eye. I was blessed to know Birdie Belle until she was 106. Then her daughter, my great grandmother, stepped in and taught me the basics of life’s bread, how to can and make jams. I was older and gaining more advancement in the kitchen—peeling potatoes at 5, browning beef and cooking beans at 9—all the while being taught when to use metal spoons instead of wooden.

Would you like GGma’s Buttermilk Pie Recipe too?

Georgina: Oh yes please. Being from England it’s not something I’ve ever made. I’m not even sure I’ve tasted it. Thank you!

Cameron: OK here goes....

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GGma’s Buttermilk Pie 1/3 cup of Butter at room temp 1 Cup of Sugar 6 Eggs (separated. Egg Yolks beaten. Egg Whites beaten to stiff peaks) 3 tbs All Purpose Flour 1 Full Cup of Buttermilk 1 tsp Fresh Lemon Juice 1/2 tsp of Grated Fresh Lemon Rind 9” Unbaked Pie Shell Preheat Oven to 450 F.

Photo supplied by Nativeculinary Guru

Cream butter and sugar together and add the egg yolks. Beat well until you have a velvet like texture. Add buttermilk and mix well. You can use a hand whisk for this so it creates a nice smooth texture. GENTLY fold in the beaten egg whites. Pour filling into the crust and bake for 10 minutes. Lower heat to 350 F and bake for a further 40 minutes. You may need to cover the crust edges with foil if they get brown.

‘Witchy Tip’: you have to mix each pie at a time. Doubling the recipe will cause the pies to not set correctly and give belly aches . . . one sweet spell spun at a time.

Cameron laughed at this point and then says, “Bless this butter, may it spread, keep us from all we dread”.

Georgina: OOOOH, thank you so much Cameron. I love your little songs so much.

Very catchy. You mentioned earlier that you were taught about when to use a wooden or metal spoon. Is there a formula?

Cameron: I was taught that at times of hard work such as harvesting tobacco,

use a metal spoon for added strength.

Using a wooden spoon would be used for foods made to heal. Such as soups for an extra boost from the earth for healing.

Georgina: Yes, that makes sense. Your GGma taught you so many skills.

Cameron: Yes, she sure did. When she passed, my grandmother, Mae Bull, took over her teachings. I was taught about the seasonings and educated on growing, harvesting and the use of herbs. These techniques were taught—and of course by this time I was 12—when all secrets were to be shared. The most amazing phase in my path of cooking was my mom’s kitchen—the chants she sung, the music she incorporated. Oh My, she loves music. She would sing and twirl in our tiny house. She would laugh, and smile, and praise my knife skills.

Looking back, they were crude and so rough, but she never said such a thing.

Her gift to me was her magic of frying in cast iron. I am now 53, I have been creating love, laughter and healing and kitchen witchery since the days of the butter chant.

Georgina: Your childhood sounds enchanting.

I’m really rather envious. Wouldn’t it be fantastic if more of us could transfer such teachings and blessing to our children and loved ones?

Cameron: Today’s world is so fast paced, I genuinely see how the basics of kitchen magic is lost. I was taught that for every day you breathe, and have a roof, and have food, you celebrate the life force

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Photo by Todd Quackenbush on Unsplash

of Spirit and Universe. Celebration of life is as simple as lighting a candle in your kitchen, or washing your hands—a celebration of cleansing, grounding and using elemental magic to begin to feed your family the energy of the sun, the moon, earth, wind and rain.

Georgina: We are indeed very fast paced, unfortunately. I believe this has taken its toll on many levels.

Cameron: Yes for many of us, as parents, after school activities, homework, our busy life schedules are often prioritized before the need for healthy homemade foods. But by empowering oneself, our culinary skills can be quick and easy. It does not have to be an event.

My thoughts, my energy can infuse food with healing, love, soothing care, or it can cause heartburn, indigestion and funny tummies. So, how does one, in this fast-paced life, calm self, or children, or both? Grumpy kiddos?

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After school snacks can be calming.

Twelve cashews actually release natural selenium which helps calm and soothe.

Apples cut to expose star and a blessing of magical calm and peaceful energy before you serve, will manifest your peace to a child. Oranges—the very smell has an instant calming effect— allow the parent to center and calm, and set the tone for home. How do you shop . . . or plan for multiple meals, and make everyone happy at the table? Simple: magic, knowledge and planning.

Georgina: Good advice, thank you.

I know you are in the process of writing a book. Do you have a title yet? Could I be cheeky and ask if there are any tidbits you could provide us?

Cameron: Yes of course. So, there are core ingredients to have in pantry: A very good olive oil, dried rosemary, oregano, basil and thyme, Himalayan

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salt in a grinder, table salt and black pepper, all-purpose flour, and self-rising flour, real butter, and fresh citrus . . . lemon and lime. Always have a beef, chicken, seafood, or veggie broth or stock, and some fettuccine, spaghetti and macaroni on hand. I would also recommend having a Crock Pot Confit.

Georgina: Oh Yes? Could you explain what that is please?

Cameron: So, when I say Crock Pot Confit, I mean a meat that is cooked in its own fat very slowly. If you are using boneless skinless chicken breast you need to add olive oil to render a succulent breast.

with a fresh foliage and potassium you have a powerful antioxidant. Onions own the same properties as celery.

Carrots are full of beta carotene, fiber and potassium. Carrots can improve vision, fight cancer and aid in weight loss. Now add what you like . . . what will your family eat?

Georgina: So, if we just used the Holy Trinity plus a protein we would have a healthy meal?

Cameron: Yes, the Holy Trinity does give you a basic healthy meal, full of flavor.

However, if you are diabetic any veggie of choice can be roasted just as easily.

If you want to roast your veggies simply preheat your oven to 375 F or 200 C.

A mandolin is a hand-held slicer with a razorsharp blade that will give you even cuts and evenly cooked veggies without the worry of knife skills.

With these easy flavorful proteins, it’s easy to make a balanced meal. Any cut of meat, chicken, beef or pork, a couple of pats of butter, 1/4 a cup of olive oil, add some acid such as pepperoncini juice, add peppers also, just 3 or 4.

Pickle juice adds great flavor to chicken or pork.

Add some stock, about a fourth of a cup. Salt and Pepper to taste, place on the lid, set crock pot to cook low and slow and HEY PRESTO!

I’m always excited for Fresh veggies.

They are a joy, blessed by all in nature.

In cooking we call celery, onion, and carrot the Holy Trinity. Celery is loaded with vitamin b6, vitamin bk, vitamin c,

I must tell you a mandolin is your best friend. A mandolin is a hand-held slicer with a razor-sharp blade that will give you even cuts and evenly cooked veggies without the worry of knife skills. You simply soak the veggies in a vinegar bath and water, scrub with veggie brush, and then slice away!

No peeling! The vitamins are most concentrated in the skin. My go-to is carrots, onion, celery, and other root vegetables. In season, maybe zucchini, squash, mushrooms, fresh green beans, and garlic cloves. Simply toss veggies on a sheet pan with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, a teaspoon each of oregano, rosemary, thyme and basil. Salt and

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pepper and arrange flat on a tray. Roast for 25 minutes. Rest for 5 minutes.

Finish with a fresh squeeze of lemon or lime. Serve up your meat and ‘voilà ‘ dinner is served. My tip is to roast 2 pans of veggies.

Georgina: OK, I see. So two pans of veggies to cover at least two meals?

Cameron: Absolutely correct. Two pans of veggies goes so very far. I like to say its setting you up for success and more positive energy in the kitchen. The next day you can simply add your shredded meats from your Crock Pot Confit, add more stock or broth of choice to cover meat and veg and simmer. Add 2 cups of water, cook pasta to directions on the package, and add to make a gorgeous soup. Pick a loaf of crusty bread and you have a meal . . . with one day of prep, cook, and leftovers for lunch.

Georgina: A little bit of effort for such satisfying and healthy meals for all your family. Made with Love.

How would your tribe celebrate Yule?

Cameron: OOh Yule. Such an incredible time of year. So much anticipation.

With our watchful eyes—starting with the August mist, which told my ancestors to begin to get ready for the day the sun returned to the sky in winter. The heavy mists and low fog were indicators to harvest our live stock. The hogs and cows were picked and fed well, and, in reverence, they were quickly taken and cut for processing. Our hogs and cows were bled humanely, and the blood was given back to the earth 36

Georgina: Do you feel the manner in which the animal is bled makes a difference?

Cameron: Oh my YES! Taking a life should absolutely be done in love and respect, humanely and swiftly to an immediate death. The animal must be bled out immediately. If not the loss of life would be in vain, and a crime against nature! The blood poisons the meat if it sits. No animal is ever to be hung until dead to bleed out! Hogs blood was given back to earth as a sacrifice to ensure healthy hogs in the future. Cows were also handled in the same way.

We had hams, bacons, sausage, and chops. Roasts were dressed, smoked, and put into curing shacks. I remember seeing the largest of cauldrons as a child. We hung the cauldron over the fires. Into this vast cauldron went butter, carrots, onion, celery, garlic, and the heart, liver, kidneys and blood of the cow. The fire seemed to engulf the pot, raging and dancing with the fury and celebration of this sacrifice of life, to feed life. I watched the men, my generations of grandfathers, uncles, cousins and brothers cut the palms of left hands and bleed with a song of joy into the cauldron.

Georgina: An interesting ritual, may I ask what this symbolized?

Cameron: Yes, this ritual was one of my family sharing our ancestors’ blood. It was an act of bringing them into every harvest and enforcing the bond of the living.

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When this stew of richness was tender and buttery, the first serving was offered to Sky, Sun, Moon and Mother Earth and poured into the ground as a symbol of gratitude. The guitars twanged, the violins chirped, the banjos rolled, the moonshine flowed and then the dawn came . . . After months of meat curing it was time to load for trade to the Land between the Lakes. We would take flour, coffee, cornmeal and apple butters. They were all carted off as very special items.

Fresh cranberries, oranges, pineapple and cherries were to be had, along with new cast iron and cottons. Traditionally this was my GGmas time to shine!

thought of cooking as a chore. I do it with love and healing and honor, as I stir counter clockwise, I bring my ancestors and the blessing of blood, then stir clockwise to bring them with me in the moment of today. Embracing all the energy surrounding me into the magical realm of food and Earth’s bounty. Wear fun aprons, laugh and smile. Enjoy!

Cameron starts smiling with clear memories. Her love and bond are palpable.

It is with such honor I know and share my GGma’s recipe for her Yule Cranberry Cake. I do this in remembrance of Birdie Belle.

Georgina: We are Honored to receive such a gift. We are grateful to Birdie Belle, and to you, Cameron.

Cameron: Thank you! Along with this magical cake, I made a spread of ham roasted with pineapple, cherry and cloves. The Dressing with sage, cranberry and mushrooms.

We enjoyed fried corn, mashed potatoes, gravy, coleslaw, green beans and cornbread. Honey and herbed butters. The full menu and recipes can be found on my Facebook page— nativeculinaryguru.

My advice is to enjoy. I have never

Photos supplied by Nativeculinary Guru

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Photos supplied by Nativeculinary Guru

Cranberry Yule Cake

Cream Cheese Frosting

1 cup of unsalted butter.

2 cups white granulated sugar.

3 cups sifted cake flour.

4 large eggs, room temperature.

3/4 cup of whole milk.

2 teaspoons baking powder.

1 teaspoon vanilla extract.

1/2 teaspoon of salt.

12 ounces of fresh cranberries

This recipe can be doubled for layer cake....

8 ounce brick of cream cheese at room temp.

1/2 cup of unsalted butter at room temp.

2 cups of powdered sugar 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract.

Preheat oven to 325F. Butter and lightly flour the round cake pan. (This recipe makes one layer, tip . . . if you want a layer cake, mix each batter separately. Trust me, you can not double this recipe without compromising the texture of the cake. ) Sift the cake flour, then sift in your baking powder and salt.

Cream butter in large bowl. Gradually add sugar, creaming until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time and blend well. Add flour mixture alternately with milk and vanilla extract, blend until smooth. Pour your mixture into the cake pan and tap gently on counter to get rid of any air bubbles. Sprinkle half of your roughly chopped cranberries onto the top of each layer. Bake until tester comes out clean, my advice is to use always use a toothpick. Bake for around an hour and 25 minutes.

Cool in pan for 15 minutes. Remove and cool on baking rack completely.

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Whip the cream cheese until smooth, add butter and mix for about 30 seconds. Slowly add sugar and blend into mixture, add small amounts of sugar at a time or you will be cleaning powdered sugar for days. Add extract and blend.

Frost top of bottom layer and place in fridge to set, add top layer and rough coat the sides and top. Place in fridge to set for about 20 minutes and then complete frosting the cake.

Finally add around 2 tablespoons of chopped pecans to the top of cake. This Cake must be kept in the fridge. Traditionally we plated our Yule Cake with fresh oranges and a bit of whole cranberry jelly drizzled on each slice

If you would like more information on Cameron’s recipes or advice regarding ingredient substitutes, please contact her on her FB site: nativeculinaryguru.

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Photo by Alvin Engler on Unsplash

‘Twas the Night Before Yule ~ Adapted from Clement Moore

by Lynda Fox ‘Twas the night before Yule, when all through the hollow, Not a creature was stirring, not even an owl.

The cones were now hung from each snow laden pine.

While holly graced shrubs where the sparrows would dine.

The Wee Folk were nestled all snug in their leaves, Unmindful of flurries, as the pond started to freeze.

Faeries wrapped in feathers, and Gnomes in their caps, Had just settled down for their long winter’s naps When out in the clearing there arose such a clatter, They sprang from their beds to see what was the matter.

Away to the tree tops flew the Fae in a flash, While to underground burrows, the Gnomes made a dash.

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The moon on the breast of the new-fallen snow Gave a luster of midday to objects below.

When what to their wondering eyes should appear But a laden white sleigh and eight Nordic reindeer.

With an elegant driver, so lively and jolly, They knew in a moment it must be Frau Holle.

More rapid than eagles, her coursers they came.

She whistled to them softly and chanted their names: “Now, Samhain and Yule, Imbolc and Ostara.

Ride on Lammas! Mabon, Beltane and Litha, fly higher!

“From the tops of the trees, from the burrows - come all!

All you Gnomes and you Fey Folk: now answer my call!”

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They drew in their heads and were turning around When out of her sleigh, Frau Holle leapt with a bound.

She was dressed in white fur from her head to her toe, Though her clothes were snowy, they shone with a glow.

A bundle of gifts she held tight in her arms.

It was laden with stars, potions and charms.

Her eyes how they twinkled! Her dimples how merry!

Her cheeks were like roses; her gown red as a cherry.

Her kind, sweet mouth was drawn up in a bow, And the hair on her head was as white as the snow.

A wand made of birch she held aloft in her hand, And the flame of her candle burned bright as a brand.

is blessed?

It is time to play games, to dance and have fun.

As we gather to celebrate the return of the Sun.” The Wee Folk first tittered; then they laughed and they pranced.

They danced for the Goddess and sang her a chant.

Then Frau Holle arose and went straight to her sack.

She sprinkled some stardust on each Faery’s back.

She blessed each wee being with a spell or a potion.

She healed all the sick, and anything broken.

They feasted on berries and pudding so plummy.

They drank mead made of cinnamon, cloves and new honey.

Then she sprang to her sleigh just before the dawn broke.

Frau Holle was off before the new Sun awoke.

But they heard her exclaim as she drove out of sight, “Yuletide blessings to all, UTHOR A and to all a E H good night!”

T Lynda Fox is a professional  Tarot, Lenormand and Oracle

A BO UT

As dry leaves that before the wild hurricane fly, The Faeries fluttered and spun down from the sky.

Up from the tree roots, the Gnomes came into view.

They saw a sleigh full of gifts… and Frau Holle too.

And then in a twinkling, they heard o’er the turf The prancing and pawing of each reindeer hoof.

She bent her dear face to those Fey at her feet The ones who had dared to come out for a peek.

“Why, my dear children, do you hide in your nests?

Do you not know that this Solstice

Charm reader in Prince Edward County, Ontario who loves to write, read and create magical circles and workshops when she’s not making jewellery and talismans for her Etsy shop, TheCountyMagpie. https://www.etsy.com/ca/shop/ TheCountyMagpie

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Walking With the Goddess

by Setjataset

Photo by Terry Richmond on Unsplash

Setjataset is a regular writer on Kemetic, Hellenic, Wiccan and occult subjects and has been featured in several books and magazines internationally. She edited her first book, Sekhmet Daughter of the Sun: A Devotional Anthology in Honor of Sekhmet in 2015. Arch Priestess Hierophant in the Fellowship Of Isis (Lyceum of Heka), Hereditary Folk/Hermetic Witch, Initiated Wiccan Priestess, Reiki/Seichim/Sekhem Master, Tarot Councillor (ATA) who has worked professionally as a reader, healer, purveyor of magickal items and teacher of workshops in various metaphysical and occult subjects. For more information go to her blog: https://setjataset.wordpress.com/

How to Set Up Personal Practice

I

n my previous article, Walking with the Goddess (Issue 3, Fall 2018), I discussed how to build a shrine to your own patron. In this issue I would like to focus on how to set up your own personal practice utilizing your shrine dedicated to your deity patron.

First of all, what do I mean when I say personal practice? Well in this instance, I mean a regular practice which you can do in honor of your patrons. This practice can take the form of completing a set of tasks in a reoccurring nature, which heighten the connection to your patron. These tasks can be something you repeat every morning or evening such as breath work, meditation, intoning, prayers, and a moving practice such as dancing, yoga, tai chi, qi gong— anything in which is a dedicated act to your patron and feeds the connection to them, bringing you closer to their divine energy.

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Breath Work Deep paced breathing can take us into a relaxed and centered state, therefore breath work is a great way to consciously alter our state and connect to deity. Various techniques of breath work can be employed to reach states of altered consciousness but simply becoming aware of the breath and controlling is one of the simplest ways to use breath work. Below is a simple example of breath work which can be used in personal devotionals: 1. Kneel, sit, or stand before your shrine in a comfortable position, using a chair or pillow for assistance if needed.

2. Place one hand over your heart and the other hand over your solar plexus (lower part of your stomach over your bellybutton).

3. Over the count of 3, slowly take a deep breath through your nose noticing your

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stomach and chest rising slightly as it fills with breath.

4. Hold the breath for a second and breathe out through your mouth to the count of 3.

Meditation

Intoning Changing your voice vibration is yet another technique which can be employed to bring forth altered states of consciousness and can connect you to the realms of deity.

This can be created by repeating a chant which is a specific set of vowels or words in a singsong manner. Below is a chant which

Winter 2018 The Starlit Path Magazine

Photo by Denny Müller on Unsplash

Meditation is a mindfulness technique which is also a great way to alter your state of consciousness. It can aid you in focusing your intent on visualizing a quest or objective when it comes to honoring deity.

You can pre-record a set of meditation instructions or memorize some steps beforehand. Below is a simple meditation can be employed when connecting to your patron: 1. Kneel, sit, or stand before your shrine in a comfortable position, using a chair or pillow for assistance if needed.

2. Close your eyes and visualize yourself in a sacred space where you feel safe and comfortable. This can be your astral space or an imagined space where you feel a strong connection to your Deity.

3. Call to your patron in any form you wish, ensuring its respectful.

4. When they appear, visualize a huge door behind them decorated with symbols which have a personal

significance to you. Visualize your patron turning and opening the door before you, handing you a key as you pass through the door. When you pass through the door you find a crossroad before you. Your patron holds their arms up to the sky and the appropriate path before you is illuminated. Your patron hands you a torch and beckons you to walk along beside them as they guide you down the illuminated path.

Follow the illuminated path until you find something left for you.

5. After you have found what you need, walk back through the doorway you came from, lock the door behind you, thank your patron for their assistance and farewell them.

6. Open your eyes and re-join the mundane world, recording any insights or advice given during your journey.

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Photo by Andrei Lazarev on Unsplash

Moving Meditation is used in connecting to Hekate which I employ before my shrine in a repetitive action until I reach spiritual connection to my patron: “Heh….

Heh…Kaaa…

Heh…Kaaa…Tayyyyyyy”

As the name suggests moving meditation is a meditative technique which employs body movement which helps you connect to your deity through altering your state.

This can take the form of swaying on the spot before your shrine or by utilizing tried and tested techniques such as various forms of dance, yoga, tai chi or qui gong.

Prayer One technique I employ before my shrine in a repetitive action until I reach spiritual Prayers can be recited and used to ecstasy and connection to my deity, is directly connect to deity as a form of evocation and in some instances, invocation. middle eastern dance in the form of the Prayer can be used as a form communicated Zaar dance. The Zaar dance is a type of trance dance which is Egyptian in nature. venerated worship. The most successful Traditional folk-dance including belly prayers are the ones which you have a dance has been part of my life since I could personal stake in, therefore using ones you walk due to familial connections; therefore, have written yourself to your deity or ones I personally find it a simple and fast way to you resonate with are the best to work connect and commune with deity. I suggest with. Below is a prayer I wrote when I first you research some techniques and use one started out regular devotional practice to which works for you. my patron Hekate: Whatever practice you employ regularly “Come Divine One in the God/desses name, ensure its heartfelt Guide and Goddess, I call to you and feels right for you and you’ll walk the Come Great One path just the way it’s meant to be walked – Mentor and Teacher, I am here for with a deep reverence and love. your service Come wondrous Hekate In Her name, Hear my prayers of supplication in Setjataset your name”

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THE

CRAYON

BOX COLLECTIVE

Robin Patterson 613 . 360 . 4037 5622 County Rd. 20 South Glengarry, ON ART CLASSES & WORKSHOPS

K6K 0A7

robin@crayonboxcollective.com

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The Universal Law of Attraction

by Rosemary McCarthy

T

he well-known Law of Attraction reminds us that we are vibration and upholds the principles that “like attracts like” and that “we are the creator of our own realities.”

The Law of Attraction is simply the reality that within the Universal Matrix we attract back to us experiences that hold similar vibrations to what we send out energetically.

This is because our thoughts, attitudes, and actions, as well as their intentions and intensities, are held within our Life Matrix and emit vibrations that the Universe reads as requests.

When we emerged from the Oneness God-energy, we inherited the gift of conscious co-creation, and it was through the vibrations of our thoughts, desires, and ideas that our creations could come about. Having lost the awareness that this is how we create, we have also forgotten that this is how the Universe responds to us.

The vibrations created through our thoughts, attitudes, desires, ideas and the intentions behind them are held in our Life Matrix, which acts as our blueprint. What we emit from our blueprint is interpreted like requests, and the intensity these vibrations hold translates as a barometer of the importance of our requests. The stronger the emotional attachment to something, be that an intense like or dislike, the stronger the pull to attract the same back to us. It is like a resonating energetic vibration and acts like a boomerang.

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It’s really very simple. If we are compassionate, compassion will be returned to us. If we are judgmental, judgment will follow us. If we create conflict with others, conflict will surround us. Negativity and conflict promote divisiveness. The vibrations these emit are of a low resonance, and they are dense. Denseness sets up blocks between us and Universal flow.

If we want to improve how life is showing up for us, we have to shift our vibrations.

Ensure we are emitting positive, uplifting, and empowering vibes. That our thoughts focus on what we want – not what’s happening now or what we don’t want. Positive and accepting attitudes promote harmony. The vibrations these emit are of a high resonance, and they are light. Lightness allows for the back and forth of Universal flow.

Negative thoughts and attitudes are dense.

Disharmony is dense.

Positive and accepting attitudes are light.

Harmony is light.

Our souls / inner beings / the Universe know the difference.

They respond to what we put out there.

When we adopt more positive thoughts and attitudes, we experience more peace in the moment, as well as invite more positive circumstances into our life. And when we shift negative attitudes and behaviors and become open to new ways of looking at others and life, these newfound ways of being also pave the way for us to improve our

Photo by Katie Burkhart on Unsplash

TRosemary McCarthy became interested in spirituality and self-

help over 20 years ago, and recently felt inspired to write about her findings. Her first book Your Journey to Peace, Bridging the Gap Between Religion, Spirituality, Psychology, and Science was published in late 2016 and is the result of much study and reflection, and of partaking in many spiritual practices.

E

AU

R O H

TH

relationships and generally feel more peace, joy, and harmony in our lives.

It is our general vibration that impacts our life the most. Being positive, lighthearted, and worry-free sets us up to receive from Universal flow, as these qualities create a lightness within us. We can then tune into Universal flow, as we are on the same wave-length.

And being grateful for what we have also shifts our vibration as gratitude moves us into a high vibration – one that is synonymous with the energy of the Universe.

Being negative, heavy-hearted, and worried sets us up to have more of the same, as these qualities create a denseness within us. We cannot tune into Universal flow, as we are not on the same wave-length.

This returning of what we emit is not a judgment from God, nor a trick of nature. It is just a natural phenomenon, a Universal Law, just like gravity is to our physical environment here on earth.

The Law of Attraction is always at play, and it is actually a precursor to other Universal Laws, including the Law of Cause and Effect, which builds on the premise of the Law of Attraction, and will be the subject of my next article in this series. ~ Rosemary McCarthy© November 16, 2018

A BOUT

Rosemary is thrilled to announce that by the time you read this, the first 2 books of her new ‘Our Journeys to Peace’ Series should be available (in print and e-book). Book 1, Why We Are the Way We Are is scheduled to be published in November; Book 2, Becoming Our Best Self in December; and Book 3, Relationships in an Evolving World in February 2019.

Rosemary says that this series of books came about out of her desire to create a smaller, more accessible and digestible product, so that readers might feel at ease approaching some of the basic concepts and principles addressed within the main chapters of Journey’s … much larger text. Rosemary live in Montreal, has 3 grown sons and 2 grandchildren.

For More Info on Her Books see: www.spiritedfawnpublications.com Rosemary’s Contact is: rosemary@yourjourneytopeace.com To Be Updated on Publish Dates Contact Rosemary, or Sign Up here for her Newsletter.

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Three Card Reveal

by Madam Tealeaf

1

Photo by Robin Patterson

2

3

What do our readers need to know for the Winter?

Images from Chrysalis Tarot by Toney Brooks and Illustrations by Holly Sierra ©2014 used with permission of U.S. Games Systems, Inc. by U.S. Games Systems, Inc. All rights reserved.

Card #1 :

The 7 of Scrolls:

You know the path you should be on. It’s just a matter of opening the door. It’s your fears that’s keeping you from reaching for the handle. You have the knowledge in your hand, you have the solid foundation beneath you. You can’t turn back because even the scroll under your feet is rolling up behind you. The only option left to you is to open the door and move forward. In other words, get your rear in gear and open the dang door.

Card #2 :

The Queen of Stones:

She is the person who understands how to make the world beautiful and comfortable and acts on her visions. That’s why she’s the artist. And like any painting, the background is in. The broad strokes are in place. You know what has to be done with this relationship or this project. It’s time to look at the details and fill them in. It’s time to write out those goals and create that calendar and figure out what the small steps are to get what you want. As the picture shows, she is ready for all occasions; she’s painting during the day, but she has candles for when it gets dark. Remember that you’re ready for this change. The butterflies in the picture symbolize transformation.

Card #3 :

The Queen of Spirals:

She is someone who knows her passions. The thing she is trying to remind you is that no one else can see your vision of what you love. So, please don’t overwhelm them with your ideas. You see the deer behind her? That shows that she is calm and gentle. The deer isn’t startled or anything. Use your passion and explain it calmly so that you can inspire others and invite them to work with you.

Looking at these three cards together, I would say that this season is about acting on what you believe. Take what you’ve been planning and move it forward. Fill in the blanks and find your team. Prepare, so that you can answer the questions to best explain what you’re doing. Don’t let your excitement or the scope of the project overwhelm you. Get your act together. Take those steps and move forward.

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The Only Love Story I Know

O

by Cheryl Lynne Bradley

to her and fields of green that whispered nce there was, and once there in the breeze and welcomed her. It was a was not, a sad-green-eyeddreamer-girl. She danced with wonderful place to dance with angels under the bluest sky and she built a faerie house the angels under the bluest in the hollow of a stately oak tree. The oak skies and built houses for the faeries in the tree wrapped a green branch around her snow-time. In her knowing, love wasn’t and told her to hold on to her dream of love until it was returned, so she gave love-love-unconditional-love. “What you love-love-unconditional-love to all whose seek is seeking you.” This was the kindest path she crossed. Her love fell fruitless the girl had ever been treated. She wept everywhere she thought she has seen the with joy. glimmer of the promise of the dream. “Go Two blue-blacker-than-black crows away sad-green-eyed-dreamer-girl, we swooped and soared above her cawing to have nothing for you.” So she danced with her, “Our names are Sorrow and Joy. We the angels under the bluest skies and built faerie houses in the snow time and dreamed will travel with you for time-sometimeendless-time until you find what you seek her dream of love-love-unconditional-love. and that which seeks you.”

It was that way for a time-sometimeShe was thankful for the company. endless time.

One day the people who had let her grow The faeries were greatly pleased for the sad-green-eyed-dreamer-girl for they up around them said, “Take your things accepted God’s sign that for every sorrow, and go now. Your time is up here.” She did not understand the why, but didn’t ask, she joy would not be far behind.

Sorrow, Joy and the sad-green-eyedhad known this day would come.

Sad-green-eyed-dreamer-girl went out to dreamer-girl continued their journey. After the world. “There is a place for me in God’s a time-sometime-endless-time, they came world and someone out there who is waiting to quiet village in a low flat land. The bluest sky never seemed to end, and the angels for love-love-unconditional-love. It is my were pleased for the land had been touched time to find him.”

by God. They spoke among themselves, She set out upon her journey, she “The sad-green-eyed-dreamer-girl will find danced under the bluest skies and sang what she seeks here.” And they danced for the angels. The faerie people followed and lifted her high and told her, “Here you her for they were greatly concerned. They will find love-love-unconditional-love. His understood the ways of people and knew name is Beloved of God and you will know that the girl risked finding sorrow and him by the glimmer of the promise of the darkness there. dream shining in his eyes.”

After a time-sometime-endless time the The girl couldn’t understand all of this sad-green-eyed-dreamer-girl came to a but was pleased to know that at long last place of swirling blue waters that babbled 50

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The dreamer girl could not speak, but a smile came to her eyes, to the corners of her mouth, peace filled her, and she saw the glimmer of the promise of the dream shining in his eyes.

There was great rejoicing in the village for the smiling-brown-eyed-handsome-boy with the oh-what-they-did-to-her-eyes and the sad-greeneyed-dreamer-girl, who had dreamed their dream of love-love-unconditional-love until their dream of love came true.

Every year on the anniversary of their meeting, the sad-green-eyed-dreamer-girl, Beloved of God and their many beautiful children, danced with the angels under the bluest of blue skies that never seemed to end. They drank from the more silverthan-silver loving cup and renewed their vow of love-love-unconditional-love.

Sorrow and Joy followed them all the days of their lives and their children never forgot to build houses for the faeries in the snow-time. It was this way for time-sometime-endless-time.

Copyright 1999-2018 - Cheryl Lynne Bradley, all rights reserved.

A B O UT T HE

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Photo by James Coleman on Unsplash

love-love-unconditional-love would find her too.

Sorrow and Joy swooped and soared, their feathers glowing blue-blacker-than-black in the sun. “Follow us and we will find Beloved of God with you.”

The sad-green-eyed-dreamer girl walked carefully, one-foot-two-foot, wondering who Beloved of God was and what he would look like. She walked one-foot-two-foot, until she came to a cluster of shops and cottages. She felt tired and thirsty. She looked into the eyes of all she saw, looking for the glimmer of the promise of the dream, but no one looked back. “Go away we have nothing for you.”

Discouraged, she came to the village well. She was very thirsty but there was no cup to drink.

She sat and did not know what to do. A tear slipped from her eye and, for the first time in her remembering, her feet no longer felt happy.

“Dear God, I have dreamed my dream of lovelove-unconditional-love but now I would just be thankful for a cool drink from this well.”

Suddenly a warmer-than-warm voice with honeyon-the-edges said, “Sad-green-eyed-dreamer-girl, would you drink from my cup?”

She looked up and saw two beautiful hands holding a more silver-than-silver-loving cup. She took a breath and looked higher into the smilingbrown-oh-what-they-did-to-her-eyes of the handsomest boy she had ever seen. ‘I am Beloved of God and I have waited for time-sometime-endlesstime for you to find your way here.”

OR H T U ACheryl Lynne Bradley is a Lanark County Homegrown Tarot Woman, and the President of Tarot Canada International.

She was bestowed with her spiritual gift at five years old. She has hard-travelled on many roads learning our wisdom is based on the hardship of our experience.

She’s a highly intuitive, professional and gifted reader. Cheryl has appeared on TV, on radio and in print work. As she says, “Our creativity is what nurtures our self-esteem. I believe that empathy is the highest form of love. Life is a string, don’t cut it.”

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Photo by Markus Petritz on Unsplash

Rooted

by Mark Joseph Kevlock

She stood in her yard the day Marcus was born and watched as they carried him down the winding, circuitous path—that landscaped terrain leading to their front door. They had built for him a swing set, with a trapeze and monkey bars. She knew it was ridiculous to love him on that first day. She was so much older. But she did love him, and the connection was nothing she could ever define. After so many years she knew better than to try.

She knew that he loved comic books and that he stayed always at a very young age in his heart by maintaining an innocence in isolation—a pureness of thought, a nobleness of deed. She had these same aspirations. So why not love him? Souls were matched in heaven. This Earth was but a stage.

He would tell stories to the other neighbors, to anyone who would listen.

He would run around always involved in some adventure. He was saving the world on a daily basis. She would stand by the fence and just listen. One day he roamed outer space. The next he lived high in a penthouse.

At the end of his yard sat an old barn, which had been all but torn down just before Marcus’s birth. At one time in olden days, it had been a dance hall. Now it was an uneven floor of giant stone slabs and two-and-a-half walls of cinder block. It was also a Wonderland, a fort. But it was all the way across the yard—an unimaginable distance—from where she stood. So too was the swing set. So too was Marcus’s life.

She couldn’t cross that fence if she 53

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wanted to. It wasn’t up to her to do such things. We were made the way we were made. We all lived with this and tried to make the most of our limiting circumstance.

Marcus spoke the stories he was living in his head. That’s where his life was. He was interested in an audience, but not in their reaction. He would lift only the good from an event. This astounded her and humbled her and his daily existence in such close proximity began to reshape how she thought of herself. She was reaching out in new directions. And perhaps one of them would be his.

She felt the sun, but it was the winter that fueled her. The way the snow gathered upon every part of the landscape. The way it united all disparate elements. The rain too had its pleasures. She would drench herself and wait for him to notice.

It was a perfect love he sought. She knew this. So much of the world around us conformed to our beliefs. Marcus would never be absorbed into anything dispassionate. Most in the world spoke of compromise while biting their tongue. He would never know such pain. He would be different, as she was. He would live symbolically because it was all he could do.

She saw his loneliness and waited, with a patient and uncluttered mind, for the day when he would turn to her.

In the late summer Marcus would pick up the apples that fell into his yard -- tiny green apples—and he would hurl them far into the fields in back. One day he and another neighbor had a playful battle, taking up positions on either side of the fence and hurling the apples at one another until their aim became too good and they started to actually hurt one another with 54

their assaults.

Marcus would also have snowball fights with the kids from the neighborhood, and play tag ball, but mostly he was alone.

Other people couldn’t live in his dreams.

She understood this in a way that made her tingle. Who was to say that a small yard in a small town wasn’t the universe? Who was to say that one single pure connection wasn’t all that we needed to sustain ourselves?

If it was a fantasy for her, his love, then we should all live in such fantasies. We should all encircle such suns, which radiate precisely that which we need. Being stuck in just one place all her life, she had used her mind to escape. But Marcus altered her perception of this as well. She wasn’t stuck; she was rooted. It wasn’t an escape; it was an embracing of her truer reality. She was coming closer to who she believed herself to be, and this was far more liberating than any physical flight could’ve been. She was living in the moment now, needing no answers, trusting in her place.

It wasn’t that he ignored her. He would see her, acknowledge her in passing, but he had yet to think of her as approachable, as a confidant. He hadn’t yet the courage to reach out in that way. But she was there for him. That was what mattered. He would come to her soon. A patient and uncluttered mind.

Even his adolescent self retained its beauty. Each stage of his development had a beauty all its own and he seemed to grow if anything more innocent as he became a teenager. He had dates; she would see them march up and down the yard with him. (It was just Life taking its course. She could hardly be jealous of that.) Most of them

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were beautiful in some way, but none had his inner beauty—that light that grew out of him and never dimmed.

He found her at last during his first year of college—a time when he began to pay closer attention to the nature of all things, the intricacies and inner workings, the reason for forms, the interconnectedness of all life, the energy of everything.

She stood as always at the fence, observing him, when he came to her on an early winter’s night and beheld her gently for just a moment. It was an instant that would live forever in her mind -- the way he looked at her as if never noticing before who she was, who she could be.

He allowed himself the smallest bit of openness to their connection, and he felt it, and he stared kindly and said nothing. The snow hung in his hair, a silvery tinsel. She remembered this and held it and lived in that moment until such a moment came again the next night.

He stood there looking at the moon and the stars, his breath in the air. He smiled, and he spoke hesitantly at first about the dreams in his head. Nothing real was mentioned, but every emotion was concrete.

She knew this about him. That any hint of specificity bred in him an alienation. He knew that we were all one. To talk of minor differences struck him as ludicrous and painful. He needed to soar.

And she longed to soar beside him.

He was never lonely, he told her. How could he never be lonely? To be lonely, she

supposed, was to be incomplete. Marcus was complete. What then could she offer him?

He read her a poem once and she wanted to weep. It was a poem he had written.

He read her many poems after that. Each was perfect—word upon word placed with such precision, delving ever deeper into the mystery. Marcus had no work to do in this world. This world, in his mind, was already perfect. He saw only the potential in each moment, the craving for joy.

Those long evenings in his company, she felt as if she were breathing again after years underwater.

It became then that nothing else mattered, and she knew the sickly dependence of wanting more than he could ever give. She was aging, but no longer gracefully, rapidly. How would he regard her, should he at the wrong moment lift his head from his notebook to see the cracks in her laid bare by an evil shaft of sunlight, a destructive moonbeam? But where could she hide?

An evening came then, like the first they had shared, but unlike any other.

The snow drifted gentle-sweet upon all the landscape, falling for hours unbroken, and bringing with it a silence and a weight it never had before. She examined it, how heavy it felt, and suddenly there were whispers within her of other places, an end to this eternal stagnation. She was dreaming as Marcus dreamed, but on her own now, her soul grown accustomed to

“LIAR!” The word forms letters of blue fire. Spinning across the space and bursting like fireworks against an unseen wall.

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She could sense that he wanted to comfort her, but silent tears were all he had to offer. She felt sure that he had protested furiously this euthanasia, but it wasn’t his decision to make. Her apples were sour now, and shameful to behold. It was better this way. Life had been long and tenderest at its finale. Only a selfish fool would seek beyond the moment’s fulfillment. She was rooted elsewhere now, as Marcus had always been, far beyond the deceptions of the physical.

And as she slipped away, she held in her heart a dream from long ago, imagining herself the tallest tree in the world, a tree as tall as the sky. She dreamed that her branches reached out into forever, that she shaded all of creation, and that she kept on growing and digging deeper with her roots until she was a part of everything, and everything was a part of her.

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UT

TH A BO

these tender paths of being. She felt the weight and acknowledged it and did not resist. The weight was leading her to new places, and now she would follow, and no longer deny what was hers all along—this self, this beautiful self, and many more journeys to explore it.

Early the next morning they came to cut her down.

She was terrified at first, but then strangely calm. Some inner part of her knew what had to be, and accepted it, and the acceptance was spreading outward like some reverse infection all along her furthest tips. It was the cure for Life she was discovering.

By the time the blades struck she felt nothing beyond light pouring out of her.

Her sap was a glistening celestial oil that smeared itself over the blades, dulling their aggression, filling her ears with only sweetness. Suddenly she was proud of her aged body, despite the cracks, perhaps because of the knowledge held between.

She fell with a thud and a sigh of crushed leaves. Brittle branches cracked and snapped beneath her and lost all sense of their original direction. Her roots were naked and on display.

And as she had witnessed his beginning, so too would Marcus witness her end.

He was there throughout, at a distance, inconsolable. His poetry pages were turning in her mind and his soft fingertips were remembered upon her most delicate leaves.

There came a moment then when they could be alone again, and Marcus rushed to her, swinging over the fence with his same eternal exuberance, dashing to her side, touching her one last time where the wound was deepest within her trunk.

UT H A E

OR

Mark Joseph Kevlock has been a published author for nearly three decades. In 2018 his fiction has appeared in more than two dozen magazines, including 365 Tomorrows, Into The Void, The First Line, Toasted Cheese, Literally Stories, The Sea Letter, Fiction on the Web, Bewildering Stories, Ellipsis Zine, Yellow Mama, Down in the Dirt, Flash Fiction Magazine, and Friday Flash Fiction.

He has also written for DC Comics.

Photo by Emily Toycen on Unsplash

Before You Go

Robin and I want to thank you for supporting us through our first year of publication of The Starlit Path.

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May your New Year be filled with Magic and Wonder.

We look forward to seeing you in 2019.

Safe Travels, Judie

http://judietroyansky.com/

https://robinpatterson.myportfolio.com/

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See you in 2019!