Samhain 2009

Open Ways

Issue 144

PEn Ways Gateway to the Pagan Communities

samhain 2009 Samhain2009

Free!

Open Ways Open Ways Gateway to the Pagan Communities Issue 144—Samhain Open Ways is published eight times a year, on the Quarters and Cross-Quarters, by The Nine Houses of Gaia, Inc. Circulation 3400+.

Newsletter Staff Editor — Becca of the Dirty Hippies Distribution Team — Ellie, Rob, Dennis Webmaster: — Becca of the Dirty Hippies Submissions Articles, letters, poetry, artwork, etc., are solicited from the community. We reserve the right to edit for length and content. E-mail or send self-addressed stamped envelope for Writers’ Guidelines. Type-written (single-sided) or word processed manuscripts are welcome, electronic submissions via e-mail preferred. Send submissions to:

Open Ways Editor NEW ADDRESS PO BOX 6283 Vancouver, WA 98668 NEW INFORMATION E-mail:

editor@ninehouses.org World Wide Web:

http://ninehouses.org Please do not send the only copy of your work! Manuscripts unaccompanied by a Self-Addressed Stamped Envelope will not be returned. All submissions will be accepted at our discretion.

Advertising Ads must be camera-ready. Payment must accompany ad.

No credit card payments. Deadlines (page 3) apply. E-mailed ads and their payments must be received by the deadlines. No black backgrounds please! Email Editor for more info.

Rates & Sizes (W x H) $15 for a business card size (3.5’ x 2”) $30 for quarter-page (3.5” x 4”) $60 for half page (7” x 4.5”) $120 for full page (7” x 9”) Discount for one-year, pre-paid ads.

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Open Ways Gateway to the Pagan Communities Open Ways is printed on recycled newsprint, using soy -based ink. Please help to save our forests — recycle!

The Open Ways Editor PO Box 14415 Portland, OR 97293-0415

Subscriptions Subscriptions are $8 for one year or $16 for two years.

(International subscriptions: Canada, $12/year; elsewhere, $16/year. U.S. funds only.) Please make checks or money orders payable to “Open Ways..”

Sample copy $1.00. Please send request and payment to The Nine Houses of Gaia at the above address.

Mission Statement The Nine Houses of Gaia is a non-profit organization incorporated in 1992 to sponsor the Northwest Fall Equinox Festival and publish Open Ways.

Open Ways serves as an introduction to and an anchor for pagan communities in Oregon and the Pacific Northwest; a forum for the exchange of scholarly, practical, or experiential information, knowledge, and wisdom; a tool for instruction and communication; a “journal” of events, announcements, ideas, poetry, prose, illustration — anything of benefit or interest to pagans, wiccans, or other nature spiritualists.

Copyright © 2008 All rights remain the property of contributing authors and artists. For reprint information, please contact Open Ways. Inquiries will be forwarded to appropriate parties.

Statement of Confidentiality Open Ways honors the right to privacy. Information regarding our contributors or subscribers will not be made available under any circumstance. Our mailing list is not for sale or trade. Contributors are encouraged to use pseudonyms.

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OPEN WAYS DEADLINES Table of Contents This deadline schedule includes all articles, artwork, announcements, events and Advertisements. Send everything to the Vancouver address for Open Ways on page 4– Ritual Celebrations, Commu2 . Advertising rates are posted on the bottom of page 2.

nity Events and Announcements

Open Ways Issue

Deadline

Available

Samhain 2009 Yule 2009 Brigid 2011 Spring Equinox 2011 Beltane 2011 Summer Solstice 2011 Lughnasdah 2011 Fall Equinox 2011

September 10 November 10 December 10 February 10 March 10 May 1 June 10 August 1

October 10 December 1 January 10 March 1 April 10 June 1 July 10 September1

5– Editorial by You 7– October Moon by Staci Elliot 9– Subversive Wisdom: The Ways of the Goddess Sophia

by Elizabeth Simson 11– Family Corner by Mindi

12– What does ―Reiki Mastery‖ Mean?

On October 17th, the Bards of Caer Pugetia will be hosting a competitive Eistedd- by Silverstar Red Crow fod as fund raiser to help pay for park fee's as well as the publication of our magazine The Sound.

15– Autumn Muse Here is the information: October 17th, 2009 10:00am to 10:00pm Body Song Community and Healing Center 943 N 89th St Seattle, WA The Bardic tradition as we know it today dates back to the 1800‘s. Historically, Bards have been found in almost every culture around the World as symbols of fertility, entertainers, news-bringers, and educators. Join us in celebrating this tradition by participating in our first competitive Eisteddfod! There will be competitions in Poetry, Story Telling and Music and a single 2009 Eisteddfod winner. There will be vending going on during the competition. Come check out the amazing hand crafted items by local well known artisans.

by Bonnie Barrigar 16– The Nature of Presences

by Ken Arthur 17– Sunfest 2010 by Isidora 18– That Invisible Path

by Mark Minor 19– Ongoing Activities 20– Death Star by Ansur

Sajy and his Dragons will be there, Uga Buga Pottery , Rare Earth Designs Orion 21– Pagan Community Directory Lyonesse, and more!

Our judging panel includes: Roger Fernandez from the United Indians of all Tribes Foundation, Clint McCune of Twirl, Michael Magee of Poets West More information and all registration forms can be found at http://eisteddfod.caerpugetia.com Samhain2009

Cover Art Provided by Nicky

Open Ways FREE COMMUNITY EVENTS AND RITUAL CELEBRATIONS!!!

All events on this page are FREE. Event hosts may accept a small donation.

Donations are optional and very much appreciated.

No one will be turned away for lack of funds.

To have your Events listed here, please make sure they fit these criteria: 1) It is offered at no charge.

2) It is within our geographical area, generally, Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Western Montana, Northern California, Nevada, Southern BC and Alberta.

Ritual Celebrations Women’s Samhain Celebration– Saturday October 24 2009 at We’Moon land.

Details to be announced. For info call 503-736-3297 or www.sisterspiritportland.com.

Samhain Ritual– Saturday October 31 2009 7pm at Liberty Hall 311 N Ivy St Portland, OR. Please join us for a ritual confronting our fears/worries/ negativities. We will have simple supplies to create masks representing our negativities to burn in ritual. Drum circle after ritual so bring your drum, and a potluck dish to share. $5+ donation appreciated. For more info www.spiralrhythms.org/MAGIC.html.

Public Samhain Ritual– Sunday November 1 2009 5pm at 108th Ave SE in Kent, WA. This is a potluck event and open to one and all. We will be gathering for crafts at 5pm with circle called at 5:55pm. Bring a potluck dish to share. Info at www.covenantofthebluemoon.org or tim.h@q.com for directions.

Open Samhain Ritual- Sunday November 1 2009 5pm at The Wishing Well 13898 NE 28th St. Suite 104/105 in Vancouver, WA. Red Cedar Seed Group presents celebration of the final harvest. Stories, songs, and poetry to share are encouraged. Donations appreciated. For info call 360-910-5960.

Samhain Ritual at Sacred Wisdom Healing Center– Monday November 2 2009 6pm at 136 Stewart Rd. Bldg.

1 Unit 1 in Pacific, WA. This is an open ritual, all are welcome. For info or directions go to www.sacredwisdomhealing.com.

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Community Events and Announcements The Oregon Department of Corrections is seeking circle leaders for Pagan programs in prisons located in Pendleton, Umatilla, Baker City, Ontario, Madras, and Lakeview. For those willing to commute more than 75 miles each way, mileage reimbursement may be available. The impact of volunteers in the lives of inmates is great. Volunteers really do make a difference. For more information please contact the ODOC Volunteer Program Representative at 541-922-2089.

Wed. Oct 14 – Women’s Healing Circle, 7 pm. Topic: Healing old wounds with the assistance of loved ones behind the veil. You may bring items for the altar such as photos of your loved ones who have passed and objects to honor or bless. All women welcome. SisterSpirit office, 3430 SE Belmont #102. Call 503-7363297 for info. $5+ donation appreciated.

Thurs. Oct 15 – Dream Conversations. 7:00 pm. SisterSpirit Office, 3430 SE Belmont #102. All women welcome. Come share your dreams and insights with other women! Call 503-736-3297 for info. $5+ donation appreciated Wed. Oct 21– Nature’s Magick, 7:30 pm. Topic: Manifestation, coming into being. SisterSpirit Office, 3430 SE Belmont #102.

All women welcome. Call 503-736-3297 for info. $5+ donation appreciated.

Thurs. Oct 22 – Women Writers’ Group, 7 pm. SisterSpirit office, 3430 SE Belmont #102. All women welcome. $5+ donations appreciated. Call 503-736-3297 or email patmac31@juno.com for information Sat. Oct. 24 – Women’s Samhain Celebration at We‘Moon land. Details to be announced. Call 503-736-3297 or watch our webpage, www.sisterspirit-portland.com for info.

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Open Ways EDITORIAL: Letters from the community, the Editor and Opinions

"Drove all the way home From Fall EQ with a smile on my face." and someone needs to inform the printer another packet is needed? That the ritual organizers needs to make arrangements Hope your NWFEF was that great, too! for another prop to be made? That the workshops planner needs to recruit another workshop hostess/host? That another workshop NWFEF is uphill-both-ways @Queens Hillside! Stayed in the may need to be added and another space found for another workcabin right next door to the lodge to be accessible...but erecting the shop? That supplies would have to be made for each new person Mata KaliMandir, where other pujas were held, setting up the registering? That the editor of Open Ways has to add a new adcabin for sleep and such, onsite rehearsals, rituals, meals, the need dress to the list of folks who will be receiving Open Ways in their to dance all night @the fire... and naturally visiting, chatting, and mailbox for free for the following year? Really, who thinks about hugging with dear friends at what I consider my spiritual family anything beyond some one just taking their money! reunion, was a fun, fabulous, friendly, and full of uplifting energy WOW!! this year! No drama. Everyone was agreeable, accessible, forthcoming, available, and doing their absolute best to make it a great Thank you Ellie, for organizing the kitchen, the food, the shopexperience for all, who appeared engaged in devotion & sharing ping, the planning, from what to make, how to make so much of the love. it, making it, making sure there is someone to make it, to make sure there is enough someone's to make it all, to set up the kitchen, Thank you Laxmi for your love & blessings. Thank you, Ganesh, to cut and clean the veggies, to prepare, to serve, to clean up, Durga, Devi, Parvati, and MahaKali! Thank you Becca and Si- wash dishes and to do it all over again almost as soon as it is all enna for your wanting to share your Goddess, Laxmi, with the finished up! From the variety to the flavor to the serving with rest of us. Thank you Sienna for making it all flow so pomp and circumstance, Ellie, you and your crew are awesome! well!!!!!!!!!!! And doing such an admirable job at singing the Asking your crew to dress and process! And giving the front table Sanskrit names and mantras! Becca and Sienna, you rock! Si- to the resident deity, what a wonderful addition! The gate keepers, enna, your love for your friend Becca sings throughout this work. they meet you and greet you with a hug and a handout and cookies and keep us safe! Safety first team, and Medics on hand and at But must say, the new date gives us amazing Full Moon light to the ready. find our way from one area to another, especially since we are not a village, but a series of villages. They say the number one thing to The folks who offer to help set up and decorate, did anyone count get left behind for the lost and found: flashlights! how many times Fred climbed up and down a ladder, or how far Damian peddled, or how many sheets Amethyst changed? And Rain happens, but it was warmer. Someone brought a canopy to please say that you noticed how even though folks may have the fire for the temporary and intermittent showers! What a fabu- been really, really tired, or in the middle of a mishap or monkey lous idea, since drumming was only interrupted a few times. wrench, that they smiled at you anyway? And asked how they Dunno why folks want to play in the dance hall, (you can play might be of help? indoors all you like in PDX), when you have the wild and wide openness, the Firelight at the fire pit, an amazing Full Moon, and Besides great fun and fond memories, we'll also receive a copy of tall grand trees for companions... why would you not prefer to Open Ways in our mailbox for a full year. There were no gawkplay by the fire! Okay, so a few may need MoonScreen, but that's ers, no gate crashers, no uninvited or obnoxious drunks, no spring okay. We understand. But by all means thank you to the musi- break students looking for a party in the woods with a bonfire. No. cians that add to the greatness of festival, where would the danc- And thank the Gods. And thank 9 Houses. ers be without the musicians! Thank you to all the folks who volunteer to make Fall EQ happen!

THAT my friends is what we need to pay attention to, focus our attention on, those good folks and the good things they do, things And that means you Spyder, with registration...its not just about a we don't think about, the work it takes to make something big, gal taking your payment... does anyone realize that you have to and something wonderful, happen. inform the kitchen to add more food to the shopping and menu planning? That the gate needs more tokens and registration pack- To serve the Gods, and to serve the community. Mean well, act ets, and cookies?! That the publisher needs to print another packet, right, do right. - Ophio Kleitera (Continues on page 6) Samhain2009

Open Ways (Continued from page 5) First off, on behalf of 9HOG‘S, I would like to thank all who attended NWFEF this year. I think it has been better each and every year. Thank you to everyone who helped out where needed, to all of you for lending such beautiful and loving energy and to all the hardworking folks who worked to make this another great year. I for one left this years Fall Eq. feeling peaceful, relaxed and recharged. I hope everyone had as great a time as I had.

Now for some Open Ways business. We are in need of submissions on any subject. I am continuing to make this paper a more encompassing publication but cannot do that without your submissions. So, send them in. Send your articles, stories, opinions etc. This is your paper.

I have changed the deadlines for the submissions and distribution so, take a look. I am hoping that they are more convenient for all.

There will now be a ‗Family Corner‘ section with activities to do with the hopes of adding more in the future.

One last thing, if you move please send us your new address or put in a change of address form. It cost a lot when we get returned mail and you are not getting your Open Ways. Send any change of address info to either of the PO Box address listed or to editor@ninehouses.org.

Love to all Becca, Editor, House of The Dirty Hippies Dear Editor, I am a nurse with over 23 years experience. I wonder how much experience Sienna has with medications and why they are given?

Where did she get her information regarding her advice? "These chemicals were designed to be a short-term crutch", a CRUTCH??? Sienna has no idea what she is saying. You might mention to her that some people have a chemical imbalance that's why they need meds, not for a short-term crutch. "The counselors job is to get you beyond needing the meds", I have never heard such bull in my life. There is nothing wrong with someone on meds for depression, anxiety. If a person feels better on meds there is nothing wrong with it. Who are you Sienna? Who are you to judge? Sienna needs to let us all know her credentials for giving medical advise. Where was she trained as a medical professional? Did she go to Medical School? This article really makes me sick. I can't believe Open Ways would publish this.

Sienna needs to apologize to all the people who feel better on meds, there is nothing wrong with taking meds. NOTHING WRONG!!!

Grant Tittsworth Bend, OR

Dearest Community Members, We of the Harvest Inn wish to express our gratitude to you – our community, family and friends.

Year after year we come back into the Fall Equinox kitchen for very different reasons. Some of us return because there is no feeling in the world quite like donating your time to something you believe in and love. Some of us return for the atmosphere of joy and fun in the kitchen itself. Some of us return because we simply love to cook for the people we care about. Regardless of our individual reasons, we all come back every year for one all encompassing reason – because of you.

Here are just a few ―shout outs‖ to some of the people that made working in the kitchen this year a joy for us all: To each of you who came in and did dishes – we could never thank you enough! You kept the steam engine rolling by making sure we had clean dishes to cook with and eat off of. Without you, the kitchen would have come to a crashing halt. Thank you!

To each of you who took a moment to say thank you – We can‘t begin to thank You enough. There are times when the kitchen gets hot and stressful. In such times, we forget for a moment why we have chosen this duty once more. Each time that happens, one of you magical many comes in and takes a moment to remind us. Thank you for being there to lift both our spirits, and the kitchen, to a new level.

To each of you who took a moment to offer some constructive criticism – thank you for making sure that positive forward progress happens in the kitchen and for being there to keep things in perspective.

To each of our brothers and sisters who worked on the kitchen crew with us this year – thank you! You make this job fun. We couldn‘t imagine doing it without you and we can‘t wait to see you again next year.

To each of you that took the extra time this year to prepare potluck dishes in your own cabins – you were an unexpected and joyous blessing. Your consideration, thoughtfulness and delicious food inspired us. To give additional input/inspiration/feedback please email: info@9houses.org.

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Open Ways

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October Moon

by Staci B. Elliott www.elliottarts.com

On that note, this year there will be comment and voting cards available. In keeping with the ―Harvest‖ theme of next year, we ask two things. Bring us your harvest vegetables, and/or your best harvest dish, and the recipe for the potluck! Vegetables will be utilized in ―impromptu‖ dishes as they were this year. All potluck dishes will be clearly labeled and voted upon by our community! Our wish is to provide a ―Best of‖ Recipe book, to include the winning potluck dish.

Blood Moon, Falling Leaf Moon, Moon of the Changing Seasons, Hunter‘s Moon. In her book, Full Moon Feast, Jessica Prentiss calls October ―The time of year when blood was shed.‖ (FMF, 209) She is writing about traditional Native American connections to the Earth and Earth‘s seasonal harvests, and she talks about the hunters and the farmers putting away meat for the winter. Z. Budhapest also talks about October as a time when blood was shed—the time of the Hungarian Revolution. The time of her painful rebirth from childhood innocence to adult awareness that she is responsible for choosTo 9HOGS, thank you for putting on this amazing festival, giv- ing how to live, and what risks she wants to take with her life. (The ing all of us a place to put our love.

Grandmother of Time, 212)

A special addition from the 9HOGGIES ―in the weeds‖ of the Whatever life we choose for ourselves, it is the process of taking kitchen staff: responsibility for our own well-being, our own outcomes, that fascinates me. The challenge of acknowledging our autonomy, our indiWe, the members of 9 Houses of Gaia would like to take this vidual preferences and needs, and our personal responsibility for opportunity to thank ALL participants of the NW Fall Equinox getting those needs met, while simultaneously recognizing that we Festival, and extend a very special thank you to all of the staff affect and are affected by the world in which we live. We do not and crews who contributed so fully, and gave so much of them- find our understandings or make our decisions in a vacuum. selves to assure this festival ran as smooth as it possibly could. Wood. Kitchen. Ritual. Truck. Gate. Attendees. Vol- This awareness of the interconnection of all life has been expressed in many languages, and at many times. For example, Bios was one unteers. Vendors. of two Greek words for life. It meant life that is contained, possibly May the prosperity of Maha-Laxmi continue to rain upon you. by a specific body or character. In other words, life that dies. Zoë, on the other hand, also means life. Zoë is the thread of living energy that runs through all bios-life, and is not broken when any one bios-life Your Harvest inn Kitchen Crew 2009 ends. Clearly, the ancient Greeks—like the early Native Americans—understood that being alive was not an isolated activity. The To whom it may concern, Hey, my name is Chris, I‘m writing to you in hopes that you Earth is larger than any one person, any one lifetime, any one type of can help me.. I was imprisoned for assault, and am scheduled bios. And if we truly think in those terms—personal responsibility, to be released sometime between now and the end of next year. earth-wide zoë—then we recognize that our individual choices and I cam across an issue of Open Ways, its issue 142. I‘m hoping actions affect many generations-worth of bios lives. It is a very adult that you can put me in touch with others who have the same understanding. interest, ‗Norse-Celtic‘. So are there any ‗Norse-Celtic clans that For me, this relates beautifully to the idea of Samhain, All Hallows you can put me in touch with?

Eve, and the Day of the Dead. It is the question of what we leave behind when we die. Do we leave the world a better place for our Thank you, Chris having lived in it? And how do we each individually take responsiAnyone who may know of any groups that are along the lines bility for our own happiness, for the risks we take, the decisions that of what Chris is looking for can email me at edi- shape our way of being in the world? Samhain is a time for reflector@ninehouses.org. Also Chris, you may find what your look- tion; for looking back at the decisions (ours and our ancestors‘) that ing for in the back of the Open Ways in the Pagan Community shaped the world we live in today. And then using that knowledge to make better decisions in the future. What can we still learn from Directory. Thanks for writing. Becca, Editor those who came before?

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Open Ways OTHER WORLDS OF WONDER PROUDLY PRESENTS

Come and shop for all your holiday decorating and gift needs!

The ―OWOW YULE-NOT NEED TO GO ANY PLACE ELSE BAZAAR‖ is the ONLY pagan oriented holiday bazaar in existence in the Portland Metro area! Come and support your local pagan artisans!

Sunday November 22nd, 2009 from 10am 6pm Friendship Masonic Lodge at SE 57th and Sandy Blvd., Portland, Oregon Because the SEASON is the Reason

All proceeds will benefit Other Worlds of Wonder and the Purchase of Pagan Land.

Check our website for updates to the list of registered vendors! www.owow.org Come Shop and Nosh with us! We look forward to seeing you!

Admission: $5 per person, free for those under 5. No one turned away for lack of funds.

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Subversive Wisdom: The Ways of the Goddess Sophia

just "poetic imagination," feminist thealogians recognize her as more. Silva Schroer says that "Sophia in the book of wisdom is As we look forward to Samhain and the cold dreaming days of Israel's god in the image of a woman and a goddess" (2). winter, it is a good time to reflect upon our ancestors and the wisdom they give us. Sophia, Goddess of Wisdom, can awaken us Women and men within Christian churches have begun to to new wisdom within ourselves...and inspire us to challenge the change the words of their rituals to praise Sophia, to imagine a Divine reality outside the narrow confines of historical dogma (3). "conventional wisdom" of the society in which we live.

Is this yet another patriarchal god trying to co-opt the power of the Sophia's name is the Greek word for wisdom. In some texts she Goddess? Or is it Sophia Goddess shining through, refusing to be is described as a "personification of the wisdom of god", while silenced? For many women, finding and claiming Sophia is the others recognize her as Lady Wisdom, a Goddess in her own first step toward defining spirituality on their own terms -- one that right. Within Hebrew scriptures she appears as Hokmah, or Di- reflects their female bodies, experiences, and understanding.

by Elizabeth Simson

vine Wisdom, the "H" in the sacred name YHWH. In early Gnostic myths, Sophia created the world and set the stars in their What does Sophia offer us as we enter the reflective nights of place in the heavens. Eastern Orthodox Christians see Sophia as winter? Lady Wisdom‘s gifts are many. She invites us to accept manifested in the person of Mary, who they revere as Sophia- instruction; to integrate mind with body; and to honor creative and magickal paths.

Maria.

Sophia has been compared to Isis, Maat, Radha, and Sarasvati.

Like Aphrodite, her symbol or messenger is a dove. Sophia appears within Buddhism as Prajnaparamita, or the "Luminous Mother of Perfect Wisdom." She is an enduring reality, the wisdom that makes possible the attainment of Buddhahood. While a Buddha teaches for a lifetime, the teachings of Prajnaparamita flow for all eternity (1).

What does Sophia look like? In the Hebrew Scriptures she appears the Queen of the Universe, with a throne in the clouds. The book of Wisdom declares that "she is a reflection of eternal light" more magnificent than the sun or stars. She is both the Divine‘s Beloved Consort, playfully and joyfully present at creation, and the power of creation itself - - the Source of all Life, ultimate wisdom and order.

Throughout the Hebrew scriptures, Sophia repeatedly calls out to people to heed her advice. While her instructions initially seem like harsh burdens, following her guidance brings joy, rest, and peace. Sophia reminds us that while we might resist the demands of our mentors, we do well to follow their guidance. It is natural that learning and growing might feel uncomfortable or burdensome at first. Yet discipline is needed not only for acquiring knowledge but also for learning new skills.

For the wisdom of the Goddess goes far beyond mental knowledge and encompasses technical and artistic skill, adeptness, and will. Sophia's wisdom is not only in our minds but in our hearts, bellies, and blood. Proverbs declares ―She is a Tree of Life to all who embrace her...the one who finds her, finds life.‖ The vitality of a tree reminds us of the vitality we long for in our physical bodies, and of the need to integrate what we know with how we live.

Sophia‘s scriptures say that "though she is but one, she can do all Our physical bodies contain wisdom which can ground, support things, and while remaining in herself, she renews all things." and teach us if we honor them.

Although she is highest wisdom, Sophia is accessible to everyone. In Proverbs, Sophia stands at the city gates, calling out to Finally, as one who creates and maintains life, Sophia's energy is anyone who will listen that her way is better than gold or silver, both nurturing and creative. Caitlin Matthews says that "the way for she "walks in the paths of justice" and brings prosperity and of Sophia is the way of personal experience," leading us into new creative realms of vision and power (4). Sophia reminds us that goodness to those who follow her. our creations serve not only our own needs, but give life and inIt may be startling to hear the words of a Goddess speaking out spiration to others. In a culture that denies the creative, the from within Jewish and Christian scripture. But this is part of magickal, and the mystery, Sophia is a "way shower and com(Continued on page 10) Sophia's power. While fundamentalists try to explain her away as panion.‖ Samhain2009

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Listening to Sophia and learning her story is a powerful inspiration. A wise goddess who subverts the destructive powers of patriarchy that would swallow her, Sophia is an awesome example of how the Old Ways survive and sustain us. Sophia, Goddess of Wisdom, can give us courage and encouragement for the times when our paths are marginalized, misrepresented and blocked.

Wise Sophia knows the Way of justice always prevails.

Blessed Be.

Michele Morgan describes the October Moon as ―a time for transition, release, inner peace, past lives, and karmic completion.‖ (Simple Wicca, 71) Z. Budhapest writes that the message of October is ―to let go, to clean, to remember.‖ (GofT, 199) These two messages hold the key to a practical lesson I offer many of my Healing Tarot and Life Coaching clients: It is important to acknowledge where we came from. Our past, the people and events that shaped us. We need to understand the messages and wisdom that we have received—and continue to receive—from these situations and relationships. But it is equally important to let go. To release those old expectations and old ways of being.

Elizabeth Simson is a poet, writer and seeker living in Portland, Oregon. She will facilitate a workshop on Sophia as part of SisterSpirit's "Wisdom's Feast: A Women's Spirituality Conference" on November 21, 2009. Visit her web site at http:// www.seeingsophia.com.

Every day is an opportunity to transition out of old patterns and beliefs, to wipe the slate clean, and to begin shaping our current life and lifestyle based on our current realities. The rules we learned from our parents, friends, even our favorite TV shows subconsciously shape our choices. Rules like: only rednecks eat meat, art is not a financially viable profession, don’t tell people how you References: really feel because they’ll only reject you, a successful woman has 1. Miranda Eberle Shaw, Buddhist Goddesses of India, pp. 166- children and a career and still cooks dinner every night, the man must be the primary bread-winner. Whatever those rules for living 172.

2. Silvia Schroer, Wisdom Has Built Her House: Studies on the were in your family, believing them may have helped you survive and make sense of your childhood. They may even have given Figure of Sophia in the Bible, p. 110. you something to rebel against. But as adults, we have the opportu3. Susan Cole, Wisdom's Feast: Sophia in Study and Celebration. nity to make new rules that nourish and sustain the person we truly are inside.

4. Caitlin Matthews, Sophia: Goddess of Wisdom, Bride of God, pp. 5-7.

One of the rules I have intentionally formed as an adult is that I cannot control how I feel, but I do get to choose how I react. Last year I added It is okay to rest when I am tired to my list of rules for getting through life. More recently, I realized that I had a rule in my head saying that if the work I did was easy or natural for me to do, I shouldn‘t get paid for doing it. So Money is a fair exchange for the healing work I do made it onto the list. As I change my internal beliefs about ―what is right,‖ I change my external reality of what is possible.

October is a time of contemplation, a time to remember and also to weigh our lives and the choices we‘ve made thus far. This is the festival of silence. Of internal, rather than external exploration. It is a time to acknowledge pain, loss, and suffering. It is the Blood Moon. We honor what came before. We honor our ancestors. And we let go. It is the Moon of Changing Seasons, so we prepare for the transitions ahead; for death as well as for life. Release of pain, awareness of living connection with all that is, opening to possibility. Zoë balancing Bios. We prepare for the wheel to turn yet again, perhaps this time in our favor.

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Family Corner

by Mindi New traditions are a fun way to celebrate a New Year. The Internet is full of activities designed for a modern pagan family.

Here are just a few I found…

Make a witch's cord Witch's cords are beautiful and make great decorations. The Samhain witches cord should be an expression of what you wish or hope for the New Year. Take three strands of ribbon or silk cord in three different colors, each about three feet long.

Choose colors that symbolize your hopes for the New Year.

Fold one end down about five inches and tie together in a knot to make a loop so the cord can be hung. Braid the strands together, reciting your wishes and hopes and tie at least three knots on the tail. You can add anything you want to the cords - feathers, stones, herbs, little toys, tokens in remembrance of a loved one, etc.

Have a special meal Set an extra Ancestor Seat to your dinner table and let the children decorate the chair. If your children are older, you could hold a Dumb Supper, where dinner is served and eaten in complete silence in honor of the Spirit. Be sure to give thanks. If your children are younger, you could have them leave a plate outside for wandering ghosts on Samhain (like leaving cookies for Santa). http://www.suite101.com/article.cfm/ pagan_parenting/111525/3 Retrieved from a Google search September 18,2009.

“Experience all thoughts without acceptance or rejection, without suppression or cultivation.

Good or bad do not exist beyond your mind.”

-Yeshetsogle, Dzogchen Priestess, Skydancer’

Samhain2009

Open Ways neled into the recipient, usually through her hands. The practitioner never gives the core energy Itself, just the overflow. The reby Silverstar Red Crow © 2007 cipient fills just as if she was a glass of Water. When she is filled, the energy will slow and refine and continue on the most subtle of Grand Master Mikao Usui formed the tradition called Reiki in the levels until the recipient is fully saturated. late 19th and early 20th Century from his mother country of Japan. There are many debated histories of Usui‘s education and re- Bottom line: there is no reward in Reiki for the practitioner, other discoveries. What is clear, when all the stories, legends and histo- than the use of the Reiki Itself. This energy modality organically ries are studied, Usui, through his travels and scholarly pursuits, seeks balance in all forms, on all levels, by Itself. To be a fully discovered the magick of Vedic text and meditative techniques, effective Reiki Practitioner, one must discard any concept of specifically Kundalini Yoga. He studied hard and eventually con- MINE, I DID, I HEALED, I AM THE BEST, in regards to nected his own dots, leading to the creation of an energy work Reiki Itself. THE DIVINE IS THE BOSS AT ALL TIMES AND DOES NOT REWARD THOSE WHO REWARD tradition he labeled Reiki.

THEMSELVES LIBERALLY THROUGH DELUSION The principles that dictate the positive and indestructible nature of AND SELF-AGGRANDIZEMENT. Reiki and the responsibility of each practitioner to serve the Highest and Greatest Good Principle is reflected in his writings, par- The last decade has been very telling in regards to degrees, labels and personal responsibility in Reiki, as well as other healing moticularly in his daily prayers. dalities. There is a phenomenon endemic in modern Reiki belief Usui writes: and practice; a process of whitewashing &/or deletion of any diJust for today, do not anger. vine being or principle. In Shamanism, this deletion of Godhead Just for today, do not worry.

We shall count our blessings and honor our fathers and mothers, importance is what divides indigenous and modern ―academic‖ practice. I realize that this is another article, but never-the-less a our teachers and neighbors and honor our food. fair parallel.

Make an honest living.

Be kind to everything that has life.

Watching the washing of ―God-Mind‖ from Reiki in the last decKI means LIFE-FORCE, similar to CHI in Chinese. REI, as I ade, I have noticed an amazing happening which I can only deunderstand it, means to use or channel, to put to good use. When scribe as an over-simplification of concept, use and training. Tryput together, REI and KI, one is faced with the reality of Reiki: the ing to make Reiki accessible and affordable to all, a wonderful use of an agendaless Universal Life Force that seeks its own level, concept that I applaud in theory, a dumbing-down of Reiki has as does Water, for the purpose of feeding the energy recipient occurred. Some intellectually-based metaphysical people and with usable fuel. This fuel can energize, foster healing and/or in- many neo-Pagans feel Reiki is nonsense, that it can pollute or contaminate their agenda-specific self-induced and manufactured spire balance based on the Karma of the recipient. energy. Others not familiar with the rush relegate Reiki to faithReiki is, by its very nature, AGENDALESS. Meaning, this en- healing, while one misguided fellow recently labeled Reiki and ergy, when used purely, with respect and balance AS intent, can the practice of Shamanism I teach as ―reverting to MUD-HUT only be given to a recipient with no strings attached. In other RELIGION‖. words, a Reiki Practitioner cannot assume where, when or how the Universal energy being channeled will be used by the recipi- So, what do we do, those of us who know the power and wonder ent of said energy. In fact, if the human practitioner enters into a of Reiki, those of us who are stewards of closely guarded Reiki state of arrogance and believes she/he KNOWS where, how and Lineages, directly linked to Grand Master Usui himself? The why to direct the energy being channeled, the energy will simply answer I have gleaned from years of energy work and metaphysicease to flow or back-fire on the practitioner in the form of bodily cal study and lifestyle is to go back to the basics, back to Kunimbalance and/or fatigue. This a huge piece in the Reiki puzzle: dalini Yoga, back to Hatha Yoga, back to God-Mind! Put aside the practitioner and the recipient must enter into a similar state of the God-less, white-washed, , academic approach and immerse mind which allows a free-flow of energy. This leads to a natural yourself in the pure magick of the energy movement that is Reiki FILL, first for the practitioner. The fill of the practitioner over- and do it with zeal, integrity and above all else: GET OUT OF (Continued on Page 13) flows from her/his Crown Chakra and the overflow is then chan- YOUR OWN WAY!

WHAT DOES “REIKI MASTERY” MEAN?

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(Continued from page 12) THE MIRACLES THAT HAPPEN WITH REIKI DO NOT BELONG TO THE PRACTITIONER; THEY BELONG TO THE UNIVERSAL GREATEST GOOD PRINCIPLE! THIS ENERGY IS FREE AND SHOULD BE GIVEN THAT WAY, PURELY AND SIMPLY. REIKI IS A GATEWAY ENERGY MODALITY; USE IT ACCORDINGLY AND OPEN THE DOOR! YOU WILL SOON DISCOVER REIKI IS THE FIRST STEP IN YOUR PERSONAL SPIRITUAL EVOLUTION, NOT THE PINNACLE! THE EGO CONTAMINATES REIKI; IT IS A DAILY BALANCING ACT THE BEST OF HUMANS ARE CHALLENGED BY. Western society is pre-occupied with entitlement, especially of the spiritual variety. If academics who study anthropology travel to Mongolia or Nepal once and upon their return, call themselves Shamans, why can‘t all people, regardless of belief system or lack there of, have Reiki? HUGE QUESTION and the answer is a simple and enthusiastic YES! But at the same time, there needs to be an adjustment in perspective. Yes, one can have and become proficient in Reiki despite their religion, but without God-Mind, well, that‘s shaky territory; for Reiki is a part of God-Mind, full and empowering and the energy Itself demands focus, integrity and FAITH! OK, I‘ll revert to my OLD axiom: TRUST=FAITH=MAGICK=POWER=MANIFESTATION I do not believe one can rise to Reiki without trust in divinity and the realization each individual is just one small part of a whole working entity. That reality is called GOD-MIND. Obviously trust and faith are huge factors in the manifestation process, regardless of name or lack of label given it.

ergy output of many practitioners who have received attunements from people with little or no training or lineage, all in the name of openness and freedom from dogma. I don‘t have lots of good news for y‘all, in regards to their efficiency and skill.

Now we are in the realm of judgment and everybody starts to wiggle in their seats, afraid of the next line… I will repeat and quote myself, my favorite source: JUDGMENT IS THE FIRST STEP IN CREATING DISCERNMENT. DISCERNMENT IS THE ESSENTIAL CORNERSTONE OF SPIRITUAL DEVELOPMENT! My daily Reiki blessing: Bless yourself each and every day and night of your life.

Honor your Mother, your Father, your Ancestors always!

Bless your Guardians and your Guides, your teachers and helpers.

Embrace your employees and employers both; rise each day with equality in your heart.

Be a responsible steward for yourself, your family, your community, your planet.

Honor your drink each time you drink!

Honor your food each time you eat; for you are a temple of the Living Divine.

When Spirit drinks we all drink!

When Spirit Eats we all Eat! In You, through You and by You, we are You! Blessed Be!

Learn and share Usui‘s daily Reiki blessing; share mine too if that is your desire. Once you have internalized the importance of responsibility, create your own Reiki daily blessing and share it every day and night of your life. In the process of caring, an opening will occur, not always dramatically but always memorable.

Today, in almost every state of the union, you will find people This opening is the signal to put corporeal ego-based agendas who call themselves Reiki Masters. Many offer seekers with little aside and rise to your innate power as a human: a giving and reor no spiritual, metaphysical or health related training the opportu- ceiving piece of breathing Universal Life Force Energy. nity to become a ―MASTER‖ in 3 easy Reiki Attunements. You don‘t have to believe in anything or display a sense or need for The first years as a professional Reiki Practitioner and teacher flew discipline; all one has to do is meet in an office or meeting room, by; the 1990‘s were a blur of activity. Finally, after four years of for an afternoon or evening, 3 times. I know of some who offer all passing Reiki Attunements to Level 5, bringing dozens of seekers 3 common levels of Reiki in one attunement; display the cash, and healthcare professionals to Reiki and training them suffithat‘s all that‘s needed. Some feel justified, because of conven- ciently, and after receiving over 33 attunements myself, and after ience, giving two levels of Reiki at one time, through one attune- receiving over 33 attunements myself, I took the title of Reiki ment; every possible combination can be had, for a fee in this day Master. I felt queasy at first; four short years and I don such a title? and age. So different from the days when the exchange of thou- But, I knew I had to take the title so I would allow myself to rise to sands of dollars per attunement kept Reiki naturally regulated, it, be the best human I could be. I could only do that if I took mywith a reasonably high level of clinical training, but I digress... self out of my comfort zone and, wow, this is the hard part people, stay out of it once extricated!

In my experience, Reiki mills do not work. I have tested the en(Continued on page 14) Samhain2009

Open Ways (Continued from page 13) All those years later, I look back now and I applaud my conservative approach to Reiki labels. It has made me a better and stronger teacher, as well as practitioner; thank the Gods!

Living with lineage is a huge part of my life; Shamanically, genetically and with Reiki. My acceptance of a lineage so close to the Grand Master himself, demanded I gain clarity of what my responsibility was in this special, risky mix of faith and power.

Lineage taught me to put my energy and the energy given freely by the Universe to good use each and every time I feed or am fed, to be unafraid to sit in my power, all the while surrendering to a force unbelievably stronger than my Actualized Self. THIS TAUGHT ME TO NEVER TAKE CREDIT FOR MIRACLES!!!! It also taught me that arrogance and doubt are the same stumbling block, both born of low self-esteem. Effective and grounded Reiki practice is a special mix of action and surrender called BALANCE.

near the 366th day after Reiki 3, she/he is, if cleared by one‘s Master (entirely based on the Master‘s test of energy level and proficiency. The Master is the responsible steward for the lineage she/ he carries and must be convinced the power of Reiki is optimum in order to move to the next level of training), the practitioner is allowed to pass attunements immediately up to level 3. Reiki 4 Attunements must wait an additional 365 days because it takes the entire time period for the level of Reiki 4 to come to full measure; only then is the process complete!

I have facilitated many Reiki 3 Attunements, dozens, perhaps a couple of hundred even; but only a handful of Reiki 4. This is when the going gets rough, because the practitioner has to be on guard every moment, to keep the ego in check at this stage. Delusion gets easier, not harder, that‘s the trap of metaphysical work.

One can lose sight of one‘s real talent or lack there of seemingly instantly; fine lines, people! THIS IS THE HARDEST STEP BECAUSE TRUE REIKI MASTERY IS NOT A CONSTANT. IT BREATHES, MOVES AND THE BEST AND THE BASICS WHEN RECEIVING REIKI: HIGHEST MOMENTS OCCUR ONLY WITH THE TOTAL INTEGRATION OF BODY, MIND AND SOUL, One is not called a Reiki Master until she/he has all 7 Attunements WITHOUT ARROGANCE AND EGO, BUT WITH LOTS of Reiki 4. This means attunements and clearing periods of the OF PRIDE AND POWER. This line is so fine; it is the most danfollowing: gerous of traps!

REIKI ONE, ONE‘S SPIRITUAL PLACE IN THE UNIVERSE IN 4 EQUAL PARTS: REIKI ONE, EARTH ELEMENT: One attunement and a 21 day Clearing Period.

REIKI ONE, AIR ELEMENT: One attunement and a 21 day Clearing Period.

REIKI ONE, FIRE ELEMENT: One attunement and a 21 day Clearing Period.

REIKI ONE, WATER ELEMENT: One attunement and a 21 day Clearing Period.

REIKI TWO, EMOTIONAL AND LONG-DISTANCE WORK: One attunement and a 21 day Clearing Period.

This is LINEAGE; you must realize what you are working for! In spirituality, integration and balance is key, there is no reward for half measures. In today‘s educational system, a pass is 70% and is ok and called acceptable; ―good enough‖. Karmically, however, 70% is wasted energy whirl-pooling on itself, stuck and unable to grow.

Another Silverstar clue: when I feel vested in someone, I prefer to give a Double Attunement, meaning one attunement given by 2 Masters. This can be done at any level, but preferably with the 3rd level Attunement. One Master opens the 7 Main Chakras, while the other opens the remaining 15, creating a united and active Kundalini. Instead of the usual 7 opened Chakras of the recipient during attunement passing, there are 22 opened Chakras, fully awake and receptive. With this method, the attunement is taken and seeded on all 3 levels of consciousness: BODY, MIND AND SOUL! That‘s the difference between heart-centered Reiki training and ―a mill‖: ACTUALIZED POWER!

REIKI THREE, PHYSICAL PLACE IN THE UNIVERSE, DIAGNOSTIC WORK: One attunement and a 365 day Clearing Period.

Once the practitioner receives the Reiki Four Attunement, at or 14

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Open Ways

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Autumn Muse

by Bonnie Barrigar Please publish my short story, Autumn Muse‖. My Wiccan friends read it and enjoyed it. They also told me about your magazine, ―Open Ways‖, and suggested that I send this story to you. Although I am not really Wiccan myself, I have a great deal of respect for and fascination with this history-rich nature religion.

I believe that my story shows this., along with memories of my youth in the Canadian North and my love of the seasons.

Bonnie, Thank you for your submission. It is always an honor to receive a story as personal as yours. It was so fun to read.

Becca, Editor I grew up in the Canadian Mountains and I grew up with Dolly. Dolly was a decade older then me, but she was, nevertheless, my soul mate. Tall and lovely, with sparkling brown eyes and jetty long hair, she shared with me a love of the beauties of nature that were all around us and a keen sense of adventure. She knew the old secrets, taught to her by Canadian Native Shamanesses, and she taught me the true meaning of ―balance in all things‖.

To get me in better touch with this meaning she would lead me up in the mountain paths which lay up above her home and my parents, home, for she lived in her own house on my parent‘s property. These dusty paths would grow narrower and narrower and steeper and steeper as I would follow her long-legged strides up to the summits of the Rocky Mountains. When we reached the summits, we would stand on tip-toe on the mountain ledges, stretching out our arms and calling out to the rarified sky and the eagles that circled even higher. I never stumbled, Dolly taught me how to pay attention and shift my weight so I could join her in skipping from rock to rock at the mountains‘ stony heights. Often we would stop to enjoy the view, or an apple, or a kiss for we had a budding lesbian affair.

By showing me how balance worked in negotiating the mountain ravines, my beloved friend taught me of mental, spiritual, and emotional balance as well. ―Always eat in small amounts, study, but rest when you need it, and be generous with one thing, which is love.‖ Dolly would tell me in her smoky, honeyed voice as we would rest on the mountaintop admiring the legions of pines and gushing streams below us. ―Dolly?‖ I once asked, ―How am I to know how much is Samhain2009

enough of something in all cases?‖ ―Honey, listen to your soul. You‘ve got a good one.‖ She reassured me as her dark eyes looked into my green ones with a gaze that was loving and soul deep. For Dolly is French with some Native Canadian blood and I am Celtic.

Our mountain walks were never more beautiful than in the season when summer was just about ready to take on the first blush of autumn. Here and there would be a leaf turned red or yellow and birds would be massing in fields and in trees as though they were discussing drills for their flights to the southlands. This would be mid-August, as autumn and winter come quickly to these far northern climes, and already one would feel a sharp crispness in the morning air.

It was also the peak of the harvest time. The field that my parents shared with Dolly spanned over 200 acres and was bursting with everything that the near-arctic climate allowed us to grow. There were lines of towering corn stalks, nests of potatoes, row after row of tomatoes, and all kinds of beans and peas. Pumpkins, gourds, and squash bumped along on tumbling vines. There were beets, carrots, rutabagas, and cabbage.

Just to the back of my large brown farmhouse and enclosed in a grotto of stones, some piled in the shape of pillars, was the family herb and flower garden. Here Dolly put her knowledge of medicinal herbs together with my mother, Maxine‘s, knowledge of flowering plants. Here fenugreek and basil flourished with roses and sweet-scented evening stock.

Late august days can be dry, hot, and dusty, even in that part of Canada. But Dolly and I would feel cool and refreshed in that herb-flower garden. There was just something about the combination of herbal and flower scents that made one feel calm and balanced.

On one such day, as Dolly and I tended the herb-flower garden and picked off some of the herbs for drying, we noticed how especially ―in-tune‖ everything felt. ―Dolly,‖ I said wistfully, ―Isn‘t it nice how all the plants in here harmonize? They seem to compliment each other even though many of them are so different.‖ ―Of course they harmonize.‖ Said Dolly with an undertone of gentle pride and wisdom. ―We planted this with the ideals of perfect balance in mind.‖ ―Balance. Just like those rocks over there.‖ I said pointing dreamily at the biggest stone pillar which was right over the rosemary plant. ―And just like us.‖ Said Dolly as she gave me a sweet kiss there in the fragrant seclusion of our private paradise.

Finis

Open Ways THE NATURE OF PRESENCES

by Ken Arthur We live on a unique planet that is quite suited to nurture and preserve advanced life forms. These extraordinary ―coincidences‖ are: 1. The proper distance for the sun which keeps us in a respectable temperature zone—relative to the other planets in our solar system. This temperature also allows water to exist in useful forms.

2. A magnetic field that shields us from the solar wind and flares.

Mars has no such field—it is too small and although life may exist on it, it is likely not very highly developed.

3. A moon that orbits us thereby stirring up the atmosphere and oceans. Otherwise, our air and water would become stagnant.

away from the buzz of human concerns, we detected ―the others‖—personalities of nature. The longer you spend in wildernesses, the easier it is to ―feel‖ the ambience of ―other‖ entities.

A trail leading to the ocean in southern Oregon (Bandon State Park) bisects a stunted dark forest. Entering this area gives one the sudden feeling that the sun has just dimmed and that you are not welcome there. A friend called this, ―the place of the dark elves‖—who apparently don‘t like us. By contrast, far away from any trails, scrambling through the underbrush in Washington‘s rain forest, we once heard the welcoming laughter of small tinkling voices--Fairies?

But there are bigger, greater entities than these. In the darkness of the Jefferson Wilderness Area, we were awakened by a giant ―unheard voice‖ drawing us out of our tent to witness an unobstructed view of the Milky Way—a breathtaking sight like I had For many of us, these important factors are proof that a creative deity or deities exist. For others, it is only proof that we are just the not seen it since I was a child when camping with my father. At the same time, far away, beyond hearing, a lightning storm on the products of an unusual but totally natural happenstance. other side of the mountain randomly threw its giant shadow Then, there is the division between the ―Known‖—as defined and across us. discovered by science, and the ―Unknown‖—based on beliefs, In the rank and file of The Presences, some seem to be confined to feelings, and for many of us an instant of epiphany—that ―aha‖ moment when we reach a sudden inspired moment of clarity. In a specific locality—these are The Spiritus Loci, usually occupying the realm of the Unknown, we seem to share our world with semi a specific geological area. They can be friendly but are more typically neutral or negative. Then there is The Great Presence, often -human and/or non-human entities—ghosts, spirits, angels, debest detected away from civilization when one is contemplating a mons, fairies, deities and etc. Of such beings, the advanced beautiful sunset that illuminates puffy clouds with gold linings as a ―natural‖ ones are especially interesting. gentle breeze whispers not quite understood secrets in your ears.

If you live in the city or the suburbs, step outside and listen. You At such profound moments, even atheists have been known to remark, ―Maybe there is a God…‖ will hear a buzz of activity—the hum of traffic, perhaps voices from TVs and radios, and likely the barking of dogs. There is nothing wrong with this overall background sound; it is the drone Some folks seem to detect the Major Presence as a sound—but it of human activity. But it masks other, more natural sounds just as is not typically an actually ‗heard‘ sound. It is more like a sound heard in one‘s mind. It was described and named in the TV series the lights of cities mask all but the brightest of stars. ―Roar‖, a voice that echoes through every living creatures and is In true wilderness, in the absence of the sounds of civilization and the power of life—since that is the way it appears to some. Scientifically, The Presence has been discovered in the synchronicities our lights that obscure many of the sky‘s celestial objects, there of Nature, such as the Fibonacci Numbers—leading to The exist ―things‖ (patterns) that are ancient, more powerful, sometimes more beautiful, and sometimes frightening . These are ―The Golden Ratio, and the Mandelbrot Set, sometimes called ―the thumbprint of God‖, that calculates fractals. A newer, more modPresences‖ that haunt our subconscious minds and underlie our physical world. We sometimes find them in our dreams or inside ern formula, expressed as the ―Six Degrees of Separation‖ theory defines Hubs of the naturally occurring networks found in assoour sacred circles when we are beyond normal space and time.

They are perhaps best detected as feelings—usually of awe—but ciations of people, the Internet, and even in animal and vegetable occasionally they inspire us with a feeling of fear or make us un- cell-structure. comfortable.

The Shinto word ―Kami‖ although hard for our Western minds to My son and I backpacked, hiked, mountain climbed, were cross- understand depicts the invisible, sacred quality that causes us to (Continued on page 17) country skiers and spelunkers. In the solitude of the wild places, 16

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respond with awe and wonder to the mysterious and spiritual. It somewhat relates to spirits residing in natural phenomena or people with extraordinary qualities. We can feel this quality but not completely express it. It involves intuitive knowing while being unable to say why we know.

Greetings all!

How can one completely define that which cannot be totally defined?

While it is wonderful to observe the soul inspiring beauty of Nature, the seemingly always loving character of deities may be a mistake.

Situations can swiftly turn ominous. The setting sun can suddenly be obscured as the puffy clouds turn into thunder heads and a lazy breeze can turn into a force that knocks down trees. Earthquakes, hurricanes, tornadoes and tsunamis kill tens of thousands of people at a time. In the USA alone, according to some argued statistics 60-70 people per year are killed by lightning—while estimated hundreds more are injured. Every year, an average of over 200 people on earth are attacked and eaten by wild animals! Over 200,000 people were killed by tsunamis in 2004. Perhaps this is how the concepts of good deities and bad deities came about. But perhaps we should admit we don‘t fully understand our deities. It has even been suggested in some philosophies that deities are neutral. Then again, if we do reincarnate and come back to finish our work on earth, then dying in a storm may just be part of the learning process…

Whether the Soul of Nature is uncovered on an intuitive level or mathematically calculated, to deny its real existence is futile. Additionally, there are always more, ever greater truths to discover.

Bibliography: Smithsonian, July 2009: ‗Keeping Company‘ -- by Barbara Ehrenreich, pages 19-22 Wikipedia: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tsunami_2004

The ―Small World Experiment‖ of Stanley Milgram, 1967 (Six Degrees of Separation) DVD: Fractals: The Colors of Infinity -- by Gaiam DVD Set: Roar: TV Series (1997) Starring: Heath Ledger, John Saint Ryan; Director: Jeffery Levy, (Available from Amazon)

Samhain2009

by Isidora

This is Isidora Forrest. I am pleased and excited to let everyone know that next year‘s OWOW SunFest XXII will be devoted to Isis the Radiant Goddess.

This is an invitation for those of you who feel called to Isis to join us in creating this festival. We are gathering a group of women and men who will commit themselves to ritual training in honor of Isis throughout this coming Winter and Spring….and who will then serve as Her priestesses and priests during SunFest XXII. I especially invite men who are called to Isis. I know there are a lot of you‘re out there because I hear from you all the time.

On the other hand, if you prefer not to do the ritual end of things, but would like to serve the Beautiful, Magical One in another way, we most definitely will need help of a crafty nature. We are doing no less than raising a temple of Isis on the SunFest site.

There will be gold, there will be an inner sanctum, it will be oh-so -Egyptian. And we oh-so need your help.

If you‘re interested in ritual, please contact me at isidora.forrest@gmail.com If you‘re interested in the temple building, please contact Michael Agee at Lysios@spiritone.com Questions welcomed!

The Tipping Point: How Little Things Can Make a Big Difference -Under Her Wings,

by Malcolm Gladwell (pub. Little Brown 2000).

The Fractal Geometry of Nature -- by Benoit B. Mandelbrot--New York: W. H. Freeman and Co., 1982

Sunfest 2010

Open Ways That Invisible Path

by Mark Miner Dear Editor, I found your magazine in the library and was pleased with some of your stories and features. I was ―chomping‖ at the bit to get this out and found it liberating to tell my story. Regardless of if you print this or not, I felt complete in writing this. Thank you for taking the time to read and consider this.

Growing up, my family was not really into any religion or faith.

For a short amount of time, my mother sent us to a Baptist church when I was in grade school. But that quickly ended, and we never went back.

Mark, Thank you so much for this touching and genuine story of your journey. I know this will help so many people who may be struggling along their own spiritual path. Blessed Be Becca, Editor.

within herself and with everything around her. I admired and envied her.

After that I was sitting on my porch one night enjoying a cup of coffee and watching the sunset, when it came to me …. So what if I believed what was in my heart? What if I were to explore different faiths and see what fit me most? Was there really a place of torture that would take me if I didn‘t conform to a certain stereotype in religion?

And then all walls broke down inside of myself. I felt a serious weight lift off of me, and for once in my life I felt completely free.

My soul felt light and nearly wanted to fly.

The following day I went over to my friend‘s house and asked for some advice on how to approach the Wiccan faith. She gave me some books and talked with me about her experiences. After It wasn‘t until I was in my early twenties did I seek out any guid- some time, I was hooked. ance from anything spiritual. I went to a Pentecostal church with my adopted brother and we both liked it. The services were lively For once in my life I felt at one with everything, I felt defined and and energetic. But with some Christian time under my belt, I free to express myself in worship. And in my life, my spirituality started to realize that the judgmental nature of the believers was seemed to make sense in every way that spirituality in myself getting to be too much for me. But I forged on and furthered my could ever feel. education in the Christian faith, never giving up hope. I eventually Now, I don‘t care what people think of me when I answer that I became a Reverend and started preaching at churches. am Wiccan. I don‘t feel that I have to defend myself or make up I was a ―no-holds-barred‖ preacher. Telling it like it was, and not lies to please them. allowing any contradictions in my words and walk to affect me in my faith. It became apparent after some months that I was not I have been a Wiccan for over five years now and have grown in leaps and bounds. I am in a place in my life right now where evewelcomed at most of the churches I preached at because of this. ryone doesn‘t judge me for what I believe in or for how I dress or Eventually I started losing focus, because I had no further inspira- live my life. There is complete acceptance. tion in the Christian faith. I found it to be a mirage in comparison I wanted to share this with everyone, whether you are in the Wicto what I wanted in my heart. can faith already or even if you‘re not. My intention is not to Then one day I found a new friend and eventually this friend told ―convert‖ or to persuade anyone, each has their own path. I just me that she was Wiccan. My first instinct was to revert back to wanted to share my struggle and release in finding who I was in my Christian faith and judge her to be a devil worshiper. But as the spiritual realm. My path started out narrow until it ended up she explained further, my mind began to open to the idea of her not being a path at all, but simply a never-ending world with no beliefs. Simply because most of what she talked about was what I boundaries or restrictions. already believed in, even before I was a Christian.

I still believe in God, only now I have completed the ―circle‖ and I always knew that there was a ―higher power‖ somewhere, and accepted the Goddess as well. This has, and always did, make that we were somehow all connected in some way. I also had the sense to me. So it just seems natural now. And I wouldn‘t change sense that it was wrong to have pre-conceived ideas of other peo- a thing. I feel totally at peace and always carry the sense that I‘m Peace be ple or the fact that it was wrong to judge others. My friend told me home. about her freedom and her openness and that she was at peace 18

Samhain 2009

Open Ways ONGOING ACTIVITIES

19

8 Times a year, each Sabbath — Mystic Art Gathering & Information Circle (MAGIC) holds a public ritual and ceremony for the Solstices, Equinoxes, and cross-quarters in between. Typically in Vancouver or North Portland. These gatherings are free to the public, although a donation can will be passed. Families with kids are welcome. Held on the closest Saturday to the actual Sabbath, 7pm. Locations announced in advance if possible.

Call 360-693-7349 or see our listing in the community directory under MAGIC as well as on MySpace.

SUNDAYS Non-denominational Sunday service Integrate light into your being. Come to receive blessings and an uplifting spiritual Reading to empower and enlighten your soul. After the service has ended there is a guided meditation to bring prosperity into your life. Held at Crystal Temple 7275 Richmond Ave. For info call 503-2490303 or by web at crystaltemple.org.

1st Sunday Sare-apy.

Always the first Sunday (no Sare-apy in August). Join us each first Sunday of the month. Activities include silent meditation, discussion of healing techniques, individual and group healing sessions and introduction to healing arts practitioners. Everyone is welcome, this is a wonderful opportunity for healing– receiving and giving, and for making new alliances. Held at Hands of Freedom Healing 8725 NE Broadway, Portland OR 97220 from 1-4pm. Donations appreciated.

1st Sunday Movie Night Featuring a movie or documentary which cultivates spiritual growth.. Held at Crystal Samhain2009

Temple 7275 Richmond Ave. For info call Plain Blvd. Vancouver WA. 503-249-0303 or by web at crystaltemple.org.

Monthly Pagan Meetup A social event held on the 2nd Wed of every month at 7PM. We just get together TUESDAYS to talk and have fun. Held at Old Town Pizza (between 2nd and 3rd on NW Open Reiki and healing circle Circle held on the 1rst Tuesday of the Davis). For more info go to http:// month from 9-11am. Held at the Celtic www.paganmeetup.com.

Circle 3717 NW 25th St. Redmond, OR. For info call 541-504-4627 or by email Monthly Pagan Meetup pepsi@bendcable.com.

A social event held on the 2nd Wed of every month at 7PM. We just get together to talk and have fun. Held at Old Town Pizza (between 2nd and 3rd on NW Witches meetup A social event held on the 4th Tuesday of Davis). For more info go to http:// every month. At 7PM. We have no set www.paganmeetup.com. agenda or format, just talk and have fun.

Held at the Guiding Tree 4831 SE Divi- Reiki Share Circle sion Street . For more info http:// Every 1rst and 3rd Wednesdays at Sellwww.pagan.meetup.com. wood Spirit Feathers, 7704 SE 13th. For info call 503-230-0249. All are welcome!

Green Tara Sadhana Meditation Held every Tuesday at 7pm. Green Tara Tarot night manifests the female energy of transcen- Every 1rst Wednesday. Bring your cards, dent wisdom and enlightened compassion- practice readings, become more familiar ate activity. Prostrations, mandala offering with your card and discuss Tarot with other and hand madras are taught with this prac- readers. Held at Crystal Temple, 7525 N tice. The practice of Green Tara helps to Richmond. For info cal 503-249-0303 or overcome fear and anxiety, and also devel- on the web at info@crystaltemple.org. ops qualities of love, compassion, wisdom and protection on the path of enlighten- Reiki Circle ment. Held at The Drukpa Mila Center Every 2nd Wednesday come and receive 872 Belmont St. Salem, OR. Info at healing and develop your skills in a sacred www.drukpamilacenter.com. temple surrounded by light beings. Held at Crystal Temple, 7275 N Richmond. For info 503-249-0303 or on the web at WEDNESDAYS info@crystaltemple.org.

Witches Meetup A social event held on the 1rst Wed. of Drum circle every month at 7PM. We have no set Every 1rst and 3rd Wednesday at 7pm. agenda or format, just talk and have fun. Lets explore rhythms and escape reality in We are a friendly, non-cliquish bunch who a sacred temple. A joyous monthly, multihave been meeting for over five years. cultural spiritual experience. Using sacred Held at the Irishtown Pub, 11600 NE Mill phrases drawn from the worlds many (Continued on page 20)

Open Ways (Continued from page 19)

Death Star

religious traditions, with live music and simple devotional move- By Ansur ment. Bring an instrument if you have one, if not we can share.

Held at Crystal Temple 7275 N Richmond. For more info O‘ Dark star of death info@crystaltemple.org.

Singing of the end Chenrrezid Sadhana Meditation Every Wednesday at 7pm. The Buddha of compassion, known as Chenrezig, manifests as enlightened compassionate activity.

This meditation practice is taught and practiced, using short sadhana practice. By learning about the nature of compassion and learning his mantra ―Om Mani Padme Hum‖, we can actually become aware of increasing compassion in our own lives. Held at The Drukpa Mila Center, 872 Belmont St. SE Salem, OR. Info at www.drukpamilacenter.com

Radiating coldness Sucking life out of the light O‘ Power than none can resist Frightening those who are weak And those who do not understand

THURSDAYS You are but a minor moment Open Meditation In our infinite eternities Held every Thursday and Sunday from 12-2 pm. Open meditation at Crystal Temple 7275 N Richmond. For info 503-249- Soon forgotten 0303 or info@crystaltemple.org.

When we are free to invoke Morris Dancing The fire of the wheel of Life Every Thursday join Renegade Rose Morris Dancers, a group of Portland men and women who perform ancient English folk dances on May Day and other community events. We‘ll teach you dances. For info call Lev at 971-570-3388 or on the web at And our being illuminates you www.renegaderose.com ☺ With the complexity of our rebirth

If the doors of perception were cleansed, Everything would appear …

As it is, infinite.

—- Blake

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Pagan Community Directory Listing various kinds of resources for the Pagan Community, including circles (both open and closed), church groups, meeting places, study groups, and event organizers. Please, no retail outlets. A listing here does not necessarily mean a specific group can or will help you. To be included in this directory, please send information (limit 50 words which includes name and contact information) to Open Ways, PO Box 6283 Vancouver, WA 98668; or email editor@9houses.org.

12 Steps Pagan Style I am a clean Pagan offering support to assist those on the clean path in Wicca and Paganism. I have 17 years of recovery. I am willing to give assistance, support and counsel to those who are concerned with these issues. midnight_crow@hotmail.com or http://spiralrhythms.org/p12.

ADF Druids of Portland NEW Our study group meets on the last Friday of every month and up to 8 times a year for Public Ritual. Affiliated with ADF (Ar nDraoicht Fein), adf.org. We are in pursuit of authentic scholarship and modern practices. See our website atpdx-druids.org.

Announcement Board & Community Directory The Web ―Because folks don't have time to check every website or subject line for current events. Come see what your missing.‖ Post: Rituals, classes, workshops ….. http://groups.yahoo.com/groups/TheWeb The altar of Epona and Herne Healing Ministry ATC Our vision is to create a well trained, compassionate Priesthood to serve the Pagan Community. We have an online community, monthly distance healing and prayer request list, and provide free healing to vets and their families. For more info altarepona-herne@yahoo.com.

The Ancient and Honorable Order of the Sacred Oaks A Druidic order in the Arthurian/Celtic tradition, chartering groves meeting established criteria and dedicated to authentic Druidic principles and traditions. For those Samhain2009

who aspire to the excellence of Druidry, The Earth Gatherings Inc. in OR and 501(c)3. 503-235-5774 An eclectic spiritual group with frequent get - togethers to discuss various spiritual www.sacred-oak-grove.org. paths. Sponsors of The Mother Earth Gathering and The Middle Earth Gathering Aquarian Tabernacle Church Serving the PNW since 1979. An interfaith (June and September), Earth Awareness church of Wicca and Earth Religions rec- Festivals, honoring diversity and creating ognized and accredited worldwide. All balance between wilderness and civilizawelcome at Open Circles near Seattle at tion. 503-503-1415 bladu@hotmail.com NM & FM. Info and schedule : 360-793 Www.earthgatherings.org PO Box -1945, classes : 425-821-7246, Pagan 19655 Portland, OR 97280.

Youth Group: Spiral Scouts International.360-793-9427.

Forces of Nature Metaphysical and www.spiralscouts.org Spiritual Center NEW Celebration and cultural preservation of Africana spirituality in the Pacific NorthBrotherhood of the Wooden Chalice We are a group of eclectic Wiccans housed west! We offer events and a online e-list of in Oregon State Penitentiary. We gather events related to Africana spirituality in the once per moon for study, ritual, and mutual greater Seattle area. To join visit http:// support. We have a priest but could use groups.google.com/forces-of-naturevolunteers and donations. metaphysical-and-spiritual-center? khabir.taylor@verizon.net hl=en.

For Info www.fonspiritualcenter.org , or call 206-781-3565 or serCedar Mountain Coven We are an eclectic Celtic coven, with some vices@fonspiritualcenter.org.

Native American influences. We meet for Sabbaths, Esbats, laughter and support The Hermetic Fellowship throughout the Portland/Vancouver area. Exploring Western Esoteric Tradition: Closed to new members Samhain to Bel- Ancient Mysteries, Wicca/NeoPaganism, tane, we do keep a waiting list for anyone Qubalah, Rosicrucianism, Alchemy, interested. cedarmountain@gmail.com Gnosticism, Theurgy and Grail Quest.

Meets monthly, 3rd Thursday. Informal Www.cedarmountaincoven.com. presentations, open discussion, rituals and workshops occasionally. 1st semester of Coven Caer Wy’east A traditional Gardnerian Coven, sponsors a 2009, special focus on Hermeticism. For non-oath bound, British Traditional Wic- more info call 503-255-7910 or by web can Outer Court for seekers of traditional (preferred) www.hemeticfellowship.org training.. We prefer to work with seekers miforrest@hermeticfellowship.org.

30 years or older. New training cycles usually begin each spring. usually begin each Ile LaiLai NEW spring. For more info contact Steward A contemplative ifa-centered spiritual Creace 503-622-1381 or stew- community offering spiritual consultations, divination, and Orisa and Ifa initiations to ard_creace@msm.com.

Open Ways sincere seekers in the Pacific Northwest. available at www.officersofavalon.com. www.ilelailai.org or 206-761-3565 or PO Box 22 Baraboo, WI 53913-0022. iya@ileailai.org.

Other Worlds of Wonder (OWOW) Indigo Lights Circle online teen group We have gathered around a central purA place for uniquely gifted teens to cele- pose, the purchase of land for the local brate and explore the gifts the :Lord and Pagan community. We honor all positive Lady granted us with. Site address: traditions, and celebrate diversity at our www.geocities.com/jinksjustjinks/ festival, Sunfest. Contact info as follows: 14308 SE River Rd. Milwaukie, OR 97267. http://www.owow.org or email M.A.G.I.C. A Vancouver/Portland based group that owoworg@gmail.com. holds four gatherings a year, teaches classes in metaphysics, and provides or- Pacific NW Pagans Yahoo Group daining of clergy, and sponsors the Spiral An online community for Pagans in the Rhythms Festival. Call 360-693-7349 Pacific Northwest, including Oregon, Email sienna@spiralrhythms.org and Washington, Idaho, Alaska and British Www.spiralrhythms.org/magic for Columbia. When posting announcements more information. for events in this group, please be sure they're in PNW. http:// groups.yahoo.com/group/pnwpagans.

Nine Houses of Gaia (9HOG’S) A non-profit organization incorporated to PACT facilitate networking among pagans in the A democratic, eclectic teaching/training Pacific Northwest. Sponsors of Open coven in three parts: A semi-private outer Ways Newsletter as well as Northwest circle - by invitation only, two inner-core Fall Equinox Festival. The NWFEF cele- circles for PACT initiated. Lessons, debrates the great harvest, begun at Lammus grees, and clergy training by PACT univerand ending at Samhain. Contact info for sity. For info and a waiting list: email — Open Ways editor@9houses.org. lordansurpact@yahoo.com North American Council of Witches A non-profit organization. Primary goal is protection under the First Amendment of the US Constitution; secondary, lobbying for common power, strength in numbers.

Request membership and general information at NACW@hotmail.com or call 503-228-2192.

PDX Pagan Tribe This tribe is for heathens, pagans and free thinking individuals residing in or around Portland, OR, or other metro areas who want to communicate with other like minded folk. Please no political rants, there are other tribes for that. A person has to sign up with Tribe.net for free in order to join this tribe. The tribe is moderated in Officers of Avalon, Inc A non-profit benevolent organization order to keep out hate mongers and spamrepresenting Wiccans and other Pagans mers. Web address - http:// who work as police officers and other tribes.tribe.net/pdxpagans.Portland professionals in the emergency services.

Membership dues $25/yr for full mem- Polyamory Circle bers $15/yr for associate members. News- A gathering for folks exploring options letter The Dispatch. Registration forms beyond monogamy. Discussions include 22

open relationships, extended families, and intentional communities. Everyone interested is welcome to join us. For information and location Laury 503-285-4848.

Red Cedar Circle (Church of Si. Si. Wiss) Northwest Coast Medicine Johnny Moses teachings to all. Portland/Vancouver area meetings. For information and location call 503-245-5660 or rlouis@hctc.com.

Red Cedar Grove, O.B.O.D. We are a Celtic group in Vancouver affiliated with the Order of Bards, Ovates, and Druids that enjoy a fun, spirituality and fellowship as we move through the Wheel of the year. We meet about twice a month for a Sabbat ritual and a tutorial. Come and grow with us under the Spirit Filled Red Cedar.

Serena at serena@aberle.net or Tursachan at tursachan@comcast,net or 360608-5458.

Sacred Oak Grove A Druid Grove in the Arthurian/CelticWiccan tradition. For those seeking a true Druidic path of knowledge, truth, justice, spiritual fellowship, and community service.

Esbats, Sabbaths and tutorials. Members commit to both group and individual studies for spiritual growth. Now offering an outer circle. For information call 503-235-5774 or oakgrove@teleport.com.

The Saint James Project A Shamanic Arm of the Red Witch Tradition. Includes Indigenous Shamanic training, pilgrimages and extensive herstory/ history from the first century CE to the present. Prerequisite: Reiki 3 and 3 years magickal hands-on experience. Meets at Toad House in McMinnville Oregon.

76 y0Contact info worldtree1@verizon.net.

Seattle Goddess Group (Continued on next page) Samhain 2009

23 A new site dedicated to worship of the Seattle based deity (As first seen in the ―Summer of 2008 art book) ―Let your love grow‖ is her prayer. http:// groups.yahoo.com/groups/ seattle.godess/ or SeattleGoddess@yahoogroups.com.

Open Ways

Sophia Sanctuary Women’s Temple We are a circle of women committed to healing, education ritual and service.

(HERS) We celebrate the eight holy days of the wheel: Solstices and Equinoxes are for all genders and families; Cross quarters are for womyn only. For information: http://www.sophiasancuary.org or Shadowluz http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ Eclectic coven that emphasizes increasing SophiaSancuary. the power of the individual through strength of our Gestalt, focusing on diver- The Sorcerers Guild sity in beliefs and the practice of Magick. Dedicated to the enhancement of Magickal Members range from Portland to Hood work within its membership. Public meetRiver and Mt. Hood. Please send letter of up at the Dancing Beans 1615 SE 12th intent to HPS Belle Evergreen at belleev- Ave Portland, OR held monthly. Email ergreen@yahoo.com. thebinder7@yahoo.com for date and time. For more information: http:// Silver Birch Grove, Order of the Sacred s o r c e r e r s g u i l d . t r i b e . n e t http:www.sorcerersguild.com, or Oaks If the bardic arts call to you, and your love http :// grou ps.mysp ace.com/ of the Goddess and God speaks to you sorceryguild. through Celtic and Arthurian-based mythology and lore, come walk our Pagan Spellbound teen online group path with us as we renew our grove. Now An online community for teen Pagans and in Vancouver, WA. Contact silverWiccans. Our goal is to offer personal birchgrove@hotmail.com or (503) 235- pages, forums, articles, links, and other ways of interacting with teens who have 5774 or (360) 936-1035. similar interests in Paganism and Wicca.

Site address: http:// Silver Star Circle A Celtic Pagan circle meeting for Sabbats, spellboundtpn.ning.com. full and new moons, weekly class and more. Located in Battle Ground AddiPeace Garden tional. Info: email slvrstarcirPeace Garden open from dawn to dusk for quiet prayer and meditation. 20‘ lavender cle@yahoo.com. peace pole, erected in 2002, PEACE written in thirteen languages. Hard working garden volunteers always needed. Hard SisterSpirit Women's spirituality organization honor- working garden volunteers always needed. ing the Divine Feminine and celebrating Write for information. Location: McMinnthe Goddess in all Her forms. Featuring on v i l l e O R . w w w . t o a d h o u s e -going classes, circles, workshops and one peacegarden.org. http://tribes.tribe.net/ monthly ritual. Presenters of the annual toadlovers.. dargonPaganFaire. Contact information as folfly5555@verizon.net. lows: PO Box 9246 Portland, OR 97207. 503-736-3297.

(WICCA) A women‘s church dedicated to the Godwww.paganfaire.com. sisterdess in Her many forms. Groups, newsletspirit.portland@gmail.com. ter, retreats, rituals and classes. Contact www.teleport.com/sisterspirit Samhain2009

info: PO Box 5296 Eugene OR 97405 www.wiccawomen.org, 541-485-3654 Email: normahp@iglide.net.

Women of African Ceremony We are women who honor the earth and our African heritage through ceremony and ritual. We meet monthly. Location is Portland, OR. 503-238-1151 Women of the Goddess Women of the Goddess is a Pagan community in the Dianic tradition. Membership is open to women over 18 years old of good intent who sincerely subscribe to our purpose. Location Seattle, WA. Contacts: janicevc@seanet.com or 206-322-2436.

World Tree Prayer Network Prayer and emergency energy work at no fee; serving the internet since1994. Post your own requests. Have permission of the energy recipient first; then, include full name, age, basic location including city, state and country along with basic problem. PRAY FOR PEACE! http://tribes.tribe.net/ worldtreeprayernetwork The Well of Diancecht Provides free sacred energy healing to veterans, active duty military and their families. We also list practitioners offering sliding scale services to service members, veterans and their families. Info at well of diancecht@yahoo.com or altareponahrne@yahoo.com Witches of Westwick Paranormal Society NEW Centered in the beautiful foothills of the Columbia River Gorge. Specializing in Esoteric research and Theology. Dedicated to tribal rites of passage as well as the Major and Minor Pagan Holidays & Festivals.

We love to explore the enchanted as well as the chilling. Contact Leanna at devasdelight@yahoo.com or 541-490-5718 .

Open Ways The Nine Houses of Gaia Open Ways PO Box 14415 Portland, OR 97293-0415 Address Service Requested

NONPROFIT ORG US POSTAGE PAID VANCOUVER WA PERMIT NO. 86

Proceeds from the Northwest Fall Equinox Festival go to producing Open Ways Thank you for your support!

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