November 2011 "Water, my Body" by Pagan Edge Magazine

ISSN 2159-9939

Loreena McKennitt Gentle Water Tempest Rising Water in the Pentagram of Manifestation Intuition in an Instant A Meditation on Water Lake of Memories Under the Water Finding Your Edge

“Water My Blood” November 2011 Volume 2 • Issue 11 ™• November 2011 • Volume 2

™• November 2011 • Volume 2

PUBLISHER EXECUTIVE EDITOR CONTRIBUTORS

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER LAYOUT WEBSITE ADVERTISING

Eberhardt, Personal Visions jess*ca mae Tootie Marie Faelin Wolf Mya Om LJ Rose Ankolie Amina Racozy S. J. Drew Sister Nariel Jenn Embers Nina Pak, www.ninapak.com Refraction Design & Creative Services Personal Visions Eberhardt, Wendy Beth

Our goal at Pagan Edge is to provide readers a high quality, timely magazine with content relevant to modern pagans’ lifestyle and passions. Our publication is a lifestyle magazine so while we may publish spells, rituals, and some magick how-to; we aim to focus on ways that pagans, wiccans, earth-based-spiritualists, and those of like mind can incorporate their values and beliefs into their everyday living. Pagan Edge Magazine & paganedge.com exist solely to offer information to our readers. The publisher, editor, and the entire personnel of Pagan Edge, Pagan Edge Magazine, Personal Visions, Refraction Design and paganedge.com cannot be held responsible for misuse of any information provided. The views expressed in the articles and ads are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect those of Pagan Edge Magazine. Product descriptions, recipes & any how-to information: While we, and our affiliates, attempt to provide accurate information in the magazine and on the site, we do not warrant that the content on this site will be accurate, complete, reliable, current, or error-free. It is your sole responsibility for the use of the content of this Magazine or web site. For additional details please see www.paganedge.com

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November 2011 • Volume 2 3

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11 Elders Corner Water, a meditation 12 Note This! Music Review on

Loreena McKennitt

13 Keeping the Edge Under the Water 14 Penagram Water as an

Element in the Manifestation Process

16 PE Book Review Intuition in an Instant 17 Divine Mind Gentle Water 18 The Call graphic story by Ankolie

22 Finding Your Edge Eye Candy for the Pagan Heart VOLUME 2 • ISSUE 11 • NOVEMBER 2011 “WATER MY BLOOD” PAGAN EDGE™ IS PUBLISHED MONTHLY BY PERSONAL VISIONS ADMIN@PAGANEDGE.COM ™•

November 2011 • Volume 2 5

Dream Weaving Water My Blood... The fourth and final issue in our element series is here. Throughout 2011, we brought focus to one element per quarter. If you missed any of the back issues, most are available in our Pagan Edge Store at www. paganedge.com. In February we concentrated on Earth, May’s theme was Air, August focused on Fire, and now our November issue brings thoughts and enlightenment on Water. About 71% of our planet is covered in water. It is no coincidence about 71% of an individual person is also made of water. It is essential to our existence and composition. Before we open our eyes, before we take our first breath, it is the waters of the womb which cradle us in anticipation of our life beginning upon the earth. The comfort of water is echoed throughout our lives: as we walk along the coast to meditate upon the waves, take long baths to soothe our aching bodies, and some of us choose to drift to sleep on the gentle ebb of a water bed. There is no question, scientifically or spiritually, we need water to survive. For decades action groups, and even some government agencies, have been pushing for stricter regulations on water pollution, promoting clean-up of littered waters and beaches, and bringing awareness to the world population’s need for clean water.

editor speaks

In our magickal practices, water is representative of emotion, all emotion. What do you get emotional about? I don’t often act politically, but I must say I have been inspired by my heros, mentors, and peers to pay attention to the “Occupy [fill-in-theblank]”. Some friends and family have camped at a downtown park to occupy their city; they’re not angry, they’re handing out pamphlets, waving signs, having a bonfire, and sharing music and stories. The minister of my congregation was infuriated by his city’s refusal to include GLBT in local government’s anti-discrimination clause so he occupied city hall; he spent one night in jail, was released on bail, and nothing changed in the city’s clause... but I am still inspired. I am left wondering, “Why not Occupy the Thames? Occupy Lake Victoria? Occupy the Baltic Sea?” I am not quite brave enough to organize it myself, but if you do, be sure to contact me so I can join you! Can you envision a flotilla of rafts, small boats, and inner-tubes “occupying” your favorite waterway? Whether I’m brushing my teeth, washing veggies, or kayaking down the river, I’m vaguely aware of how blessed I am to have easy and plentiful access to water... no wait, to clean water. In November, a month often set aside for giving thanks, I am challenging myself and PE readers to show gratitude for our accessibility to clean water. To help me remember, I am creating decorative signs to post at my faucets with water facts and quotes. For some of my favorites, see inset on our “News from the Edge” page. Happy reading & bright blessings,

P.S. Don’t forget to take our reader’s survey... you could win $100 Gift Card! 6

™• November 2011 • Volume 2

TAKE OUR SURVEY & WIN! We truly hope that you have enjoyed reading our magazine. Please take a few moments to take a short online survey.

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News from the Edge Pagan Edge: Accessible. check us out on MySpace: 267 followers FaceBook: 522 followers Twitter: 1,355 followers PE issues are available FOUR ways: 1. electronically on the homepage of paganedge.com 2. on our electronic print source, issuu.com 3. hard copy is available from magcloud.com 4. buy a pdf from our website, visit the Pagan Edge Store PE Staff Updates A quick thanks to Crowskin who has contributed an article every single month to PE since we were born. Keep up with her writing and art: http:// eyesofacrow.deviantart.com/ Also, Dawn Sherwood has contributed articles, inspirations, and brainstorm

thoughts on PE since before we even launched. She is taking some time off but we do look forward to the return of her column “Plant Vibes” in the spring. Many thanks to Jenn Embers for her ideas on health and fitness for PE’s summer months. In October, we added two new features to the magazine, some “eye candy” to stimulate your visual entertainment and imaginations. We added “Finding Your Edge” with fun and affordable products. If you have an item you’ve found on the ‘net that you would like to share, just email us the jpg & the link. “The Call” is Ankolie’s latest creation, a bi-lingual illustrated story with monthly installments. PE is continually expanding and looking for new staff members.

ide orldw w e l p at’s o r—th on pe e i l t l i a b w on an “1.1 eople to cle p s s x i e s c c ne in zation lack a tely o rgani a O m i h t x l appro World Hea .” ~ earth “Let there be work, bread, water and salt for all.” ~Nelson Mandela

Sales reps, graphic artists, photographers, editors, writers, and all pagans of creative mind... contact us today to help keep PE on its toes! Have you taken our survey yet? Why not? It’s short and sweet and offers a chance for an Amazon Gift Card! Before you read on, go to https:// www.surveymonkey.com/s/ paganedge now! Comments on MySpace: High Priestess Owinda: “Blessed be, star sisters!” Upcoming Themes: December 2011 “Keeping the Wonder” January 2012 “Breaking through, out, exploration” February 2012 “Matters of the Heart”

“Water has become a highly precious resource. There are some places where a barrel of water costs more than a barrel of oil.” ~ Lloyd Axworthy

“Water is life’s matt er and matrix, m other and m edium. There is n o life with out water. ” ~Albert S zent-Gyorg yi

cycle e water h t t a h t get one.” “We for ycle are c e f li e and th ousteau s Yves C e u q c a J ~

We Want to Hear It: good, bad, or edgy... Give Us Feedback! Have something to say? email letters@paganedge.com 8

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a L

o f e M k

Life’s Wit by S.J. Drew

e m ori

Miriam pulled up in the driveway of the cottage and sighed with relief. “Finally, I can just be alone,” she thought. She looked at her cell phone. She had no reception. “And maybe no one will bother me. Of course, I had to come all the way out to the middle of nowhere to find some peace.”

behind the house.

The cozy cottage had one bedroom, a living room, and a full kitchen and bath. There was a balcony that overlooked the nearby river.

The swimming hole was the upstream point of a creek where an underground spring broke the surface, pooled in a natural basin, and finally flowed out to the river. The water had a lot less mud and was perceived as generally cleaner. She and her sisters had spent a lot of hours at the swimming hole with some cousins and their friends.

“It really hasn’t changed,” Miriam thought. “After all these years.” When Miriam was a child, her mother’s mother owned the cottage and her family would stay for a couple of weeks during the summer. Her parents took the only bedroom and she and her two sisters slept in cots on the porch or in the living room. Her father’s mother died before she was born, so her mother’s mother was the only Grandma she’d ever known. When she was ten, her grandmother had died and the cottage had passed to her mother. After her mother died, it passed to her. “How long has it been? Fifteen years? Twenty?” she thought, walking around the place. She got a cup of coffee, and watched the river while the sun set

She awoke early in the morning with the urge to go swimming, but the river was slow, lazy, and muddy. “I know! I can go to the swimming hole. It’s too early on a Sunday for the kids to be around,” she thought, and grabbed her swimsuit.

When she arrived, no one was there, so she slid into the cool, clear water. She swam a few lengths to warm up, then leaned up against the side and sat on a rock. Her mind drifted back to those warm summer days when her grandmother and mother were still alive. The force of the emotion combined with the surroundings caused her to cry. “Why are you crying, my child?” asked a deep female voice. Oddly, Miriam was not afraid. “I miss my mom. I miss my grandma. Everything’s turned

s e

upside down this year and I just want to talk to my mom again.” “Then talk to me, for I am a mother in my way,” said the voice. Miriam started to talk. All the feelings she’d pent up since her mother died a year ago, all the struggles with her job and her boyfriend came pouring out like a river bursting a dam. When her tears stopped, she felt warm instead of cold after sitting in the swimming hole so long. A transparent figure of an old woman with Greek features was sitting next to her, hugging her shoulders. “So much grief and pain and anger, poor child.” “I feel better now,” she sniffled. “A lot better. Thank you. I don’t know what I did to deserve your attention.” “You needed help, so I helped. Now I must go, and you should too if you do not want to get overwhelmed by small children,” the goddess said with a smile. The goddess kissed Miriam on the forehead and vanished. Miriam got out of the water and returned to the cottage with a lighter heart. ™•

November 2011 • Volume 2 9

The PaganEdge

Book Review

by Faelin Wolf

blame her. She spent some time in a mental institution after Jason’s death because she couldn’t stop blaming herself for keeping her secret. In addition to the town’s view of her being a freak and an outcast, she sees herself this way because she has to go swim in the dangerous ocean nightly, no matter the temperature or the weather.

Tempest Rising

by Nichole Peeler, 2009 ISBN: 978-0-316-05658-8

Sometimes, I want something a little different than the usual witches, vampires, and werewolves in today’s urban fiction. A girl, or at least this girl, likes variety! Welcome to Nicole Peeler’s Jane True series. Jane is a halfling—half human, half selkie. But she doesn’t know that, of course, until some quite unusual things start happening in her small town of Rockabill. Jane’s reputation in Rockabill is not good. Her mother came to town naked in the middle of a storm and left after Jane was born under similar circumstances. Jane’s only friend and true love, Jason, drowned after following her out on one of her swims, leaving the town to speculate and

Jane’s life changes and becomes even stranger on the night she discovers a body during her swim. She becomes embroiled in a supernatural investigation by devilishly handsome Ryu and discovers that her mother was part of the supernatural community as a selkie. She begins to face a new life, full of familiar faces who now have more powers than she ever dreamed, and also faces new dangers as she becomes more involved in Ryu’s investigation and in his life as a baobhan sith, or vampire. This is a sexy, funny read. Jane is a very sweet and somewhat sarcastic character who is dealing with the prejudice of an entire town for things she had no part of. It’s fun to join her on her journey of discovering the other half of her halfling status—meeting the gnomes, goblins, baobhan sith, nahuals, djinns, kelpies, naga, succubi, and ifrits (among others) of this new world. It’s inspiring to watch Jane blossom into her power and heal from her loss. An excellent start to a new series! I look forward to the other books and invite you to meet Jane True. Book Review continued on page 16

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ater W

a meditation

From the Elders Corner by Lucille M Rose

west emotions feelings cleansing intuition hidden depths of the psyche autumn twilight

This meditation can be read to you by another person or recorded and played when you have a few minutes. You can either sit or lie down. When you are comfortable close your eyes. Breathe in, hold it for a second, then exhale slowly counting one-two-three. Breathe in, hold it for a second, then exhale slowly counting one-two-three. Take a deep cleansing breath and exhale quickly and deeply. Notice your body starting to relax, relax, relax… You are ready to proceed with the meditation. You are sitting in a comfortable chair in front of a big window. You are sipping your favorite beverage. You smell a light fragrant scent wafting from the

cup. The liquid is warm and tastes delicious on your tongue. You look out the big window. The sky is a pale washed out blue with wisps of grey. The sun is setting and the soft colors of twilight will soon be visible. You know autumn has arrived. You can feel… see… and hear the signs of autumn. The air is cooler outside. The grass has changed from the summer green to the dull autumn green. You know the grass has entered the dormant stage. The leaves on the trees are a kaleidoscope of color consisting of greens, reds, yellows and browns. The dried leaves sound like they are whispering to you when the wind touches them. Meditation continued on page 23 ™•

November 2011 • Volume 2 11

Pensive Sounds: Music Review by V.L.

Loreena McKennitt – what do you think of when you hear that name? Peace, calm, nature, animals? Or do you think of Shakespeare, the Celts, and even possibly Mike Oldfield? I know what I think – and it’s going to sound odd – I’ve got to plan a trip to Canada! Between the amazing compositions and the way this lady plays the harp, I’m more than inspired to hear McKennitt on her home stage. McKennitt was born in the providence of Manitoba, Canada in the year 1957. Growing up, her aspiration was to become a veterinarian; but music entered her life and, as she said, chose her. In the 1970’s, Celtic music began to fascinate the young Loreena. As she became more aware and informed of Celtic history, McKennitt’s love for the culture as a whole became stronger. At the age of 24, she moved to Stratford, Ontario, Canada – where she still resides today. A year later, in 1982, McKennitt participated in Stratford Festival’s production of Shakespeare’s The Tempest. That would only be a footnote in a long line of accomplishments. Elemental kicked off McKennitt’s recording career in 1985. The album was self produced and served as the inaugural release for Quinlan

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Road — an independent record label started, wholly owned, and operated by McKennitt out of her home, where orders for recordings were fulfilled via mail order. Though the beginning was difficult, good times were ahead. Between then and 1991, McKennitt produced and released three more albums. She also provided the music for Women and Spirituality, a documentary series produced by the National Film Board of Canada Studio D. McKennitt is singer and composer; but she also has instrumental talents deserving of credit. McKennitt plays the piano, harp, and accordion. It is partially because of her instrumental prowess that in 1993, McKennitt supported Mike Oldfield (best recognized for his composition Tubular Bells, which became the theme for the movie The Exorcist) during the European leg of his 20th Anniversary Tour. Shortly after that, in 1994, The Mask and Mirror was released and went platinum. This accomplishment was topped three years later when The Book of Secrets was released. The album went double platinum with success of the single, The Mummer’s Dance, as it reached Top 20 Billboard status in the United States. McKennitt continued on page20

“...she has a deep love for what she is doing... present in her musical compositions and performances.”

Keeping the Edge by Mya Om

In the Rider Waite tarot deck the Moon, number 18 of the Major Arcana, shows a full moon rising over an abyss of water from which a crayfish emerges onto dry land. This imagery is particularly important if you recall the association of the element of water to the third corner of the witches’ pyramid – To dare.1 Here the crayfish emerges from his known world (the water) into the unknown world of dry land. The Moon Card is traditionally interpreted to mean uncertainty, deception, imagination and fantasy or dreams. It is a powerful card that refers the reader back to the unconscious primal self – this self is the source from which the energy associated with witchcraft stems. It is the primal scream that allows us to shape reality into whatever we choose.

Model: Stephanie Griff ; Make Up and hair by Kat Morris of NightShade Beauty; Wardrobe Stylist: Molly Mousekewitz

Under the Water

The lesson of the Moon and of the element of water is that in order for transformation to occur we must first release the ties which hold us back. When dropped unexpectedly into a deep pool of water, the body’s first instinct is to thrash and struggle to escape – but there is no escape in this manner – such struggle only draws the body deeper and further down into the murky depths until there is no hope of escape. If, however, the body relaxes and resists the urge to flail about without purpose then instead of sinking, the natural buoyancy of the body draws it out of the depths Under the Water continued on page 26 ™•

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THE PENTAGRAM OF MA N I F ESTATION 4 • SPIRIT Connecting Force

2 • AIR Thought

5 • EARTH Physical World

Rocky Lakeshore ™

• November 2011 • Volume 2

1 • WATER Emotion

3 • FIRE Transformation

WATER

Article & Photos by Tootie Marie Imagery

An Element In The Pentagram Of Manifestation

The First of the Five Elements in the Manifestation Process This is the fourth in a five part series dealing with the Manifestation Process as it is made whole by the five elements -- Water, Air, Fire, Spirit, and Earth -- and how we can trace these elements along the lines of the pentagram. Each element can be seen as an important part in the process of manifestation – Emotions, Thought, Transformation, Connecting Force, Physical World. Just a refresher: the elements are listed here in the order in which we bring our emotions into physical being. Water is the element of Emotions; Air is the element of Thought; Fire is the element of Transformation; Spirit connects us to everything; and Earth is the element of the Physical World. The Manifestation Process is continually happening whether we are conscious of it or not. Hopefully this series of articles will make you more aware of the process of manifestation. We will also be making a deep connection with each element as we follow through this course. These articles are being written out-of-order, so to speak, so that the element being highlighted

is in accordance with the topic of discussion for the month. Our topic this month is Water. Therefore the fourth article in our series actually coincides with the first element in the Manifestation Process: Water. The February 2011 issue of Pagan Edge contains the first article in the series, dedicated to Earth: the final element in the Manifestation Process. The May 2011 issue contains the second article, dedicated to Air: the second element in the Process. The August 2011 issue contains the third article, dedicated to Fire: the third element in the Process. If possible, do this activity outside. The best scenario is for you to be near Water: a lake, a pond, a river, a stream. Whatever you have access to, but still allows you peace, and a quiet place to meditate. Being near Water will enhance your experience during your interaction with this process. Another aspect that will deepen your connection is dressing in appropriate colors. If you wish, you can adorn yourself in Water’s colors which include turquoise, purple, and all shades of blue.

Before we begin concentrating on the Water element, please take a few minutes or so to think of an object you have in your possession that ties you to Water, the element of Emotions. Water reflects our Emotions flowing through us. If you have collected Water from a place that is special to you, that would be ideal. Special places usually have deep ties to a person’s Emotions. You can have this Water in a bowl, cup, or bottle, or whatever you like to carry it in. Or, if you are doing this activity outdoors near Water, you can collect from that body of water. Pick up your container of Water, or other chosen representation. Hold on to it throughout this exercise. Make yourself comfortable. Relax. Ground and center yourself. In your mind’s eye, you will concentrate strongly on the Water element in order to manifest its energy and power. By doing this, you are producing links and channels for the energy to move through. Water: the element of Emotions. This is where the entire Manifestation Process begins. Your wants and needs mingle

Manifestation continued on page 24 ™•

November 2011 • Volume 2

Book Review continued from page 10

dowsing to find out nearly anything we want to know, not just where there might be water!

Intuition in an Instant:

Discover Your Inner Wisdom Through Dowsing

by Kathryn Klvana, 2011 ISBN: 9780738723303

When I think of dowsing, I think of my grandpa. My mom told me that he could find water anywhere through dowsing. I don’t know that I really understood what that meant, besides that my grandpa was pretty amazing. But now that I’ve read Kathryn Klvana’s book, I realize that maybe dowsing runs in my family… and even if it didn’t, we all have the ability to use

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Klvana says “dowsing is simply a word to describe an intuitive technique for getting information outside of the five senses” (p. 10). It is an ability that we all have and can develop to increase its power and accuracy. Really, it comes down to forging a connection with our higher selves and connecting in to the divine, the universe, or the collective unconscious (whichever terms fit best with you). How do we do this? Well, it’s pretty easy and Klvana leads you through it, step by step in Intuition in an Instant. She describes dowsing tools, offers easy exercises to increase your comfort and accuracy with dowsing, and even guides you through how to use dowsing for health, in relationships, with your pets, in your career, in your home, and yes, even to find water. In addition, she breaks down the science behind dowsing, to demonstrate that it can be scientifically proven, even if it is hard to believe that we can have so many answers and do so many things with our intuition. This is an easy to read and use book that makes a compelling argument for incorporating dowsing into your daily life. For those of us who may not feel so “psychic”, it offers a quick and simple method for tapping into our intuitive powers. Find yourself a pendulum (or another dowsing tool) that feels right to you, and get started!

Making the Divine Mind, Mine

by Sister Nariel, Contemplative Order of Anam Cara

Gentle Water One of the greatest blessings of living the pagan life is our unique connection to the world around us. We do not view ourselves as masters of the planet but perhaps as joyful cohabitants. Together with the animals of the fields, the birds of the air and the marine life of the sea, we work towards a symbiotic relationship in which all may not only survive, but thrive. In such a relationship, we are called to lives of integrity and the fearless search for the truths that bind all life together. Pillars of our search are the elements that exist both around and within us all. As we experience our

elementally wonderful world we discover the profound connection that is ours and we activate one of the best methods of learning— experiential. Water is one of the most unpredictable of the elements in our world and is tied to all that we do. We come to exist, in the watery world of mother’s womb where we are cradled in safety and serenaded by the sounds of the Deep. Made up of over 60 percent water, humanity can survive less than one week without having consumed its share of this vital element. Water has the ability to mold and shape the

activity of the other elements. In this simple discussion thus far, we find two vast truths: Water is the birth place of life and it remains one of the most necessary agents within life. Having said that, let’s go back and substitute the word ‘love’ in each instance that we find the reference to the word, water. “Love is one of the most unpredictable of the elements in our world and is tied to all that we do. We come to exist in the loving world of mother’s womb where are cradled in safety and serenaded by the sounds of the depth of her love…humanity can survive Gentle Water continued on page 27 ™•

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November 2011 • Volume 2 19

McKennitt continued from page 12

How could McKennitt not be successful? Her music is an enchanting journey across distant lands and through history. Every album has a central theme, thoroughly researched. Her research influences the music and lyrics; a winning combination presenting a unique feel to each production. To further increase awe found within her music, she has a deep love for what she is doing and that emotion is present in her musical compositions and performances. Her voice has a very classical feel to it; but it is never at all dull. With vibrato and free use of volume, every song is as interesting as the last. Each musical track is a tale with she the narrator – she leaves no doubt in that regard. Since 1985, McKennitt has released twelve albums and also produced music for a number of films and television series; such as The Santa Claus, Highlander III, and The Mists of Avalon. In the midst of this, McKennitt has also made some strides in humanitarian accomplishments. She founded the Cook-Rees Memorial Fund for Water Search and Safety in 1998. This was done in memory of her significant other, Ronald Rees, his brother, Richard Rees, and their friend, Gregory Cook

– all of whom were lost in a boating accident earlier that year. The first major donation to the cause was made by McKennitt as the proceeds from her live album, Live In Paris and Toronto, went to the organization. She also established The Three Oaks Foundation; a charitable organization that donates money to environmental, historical, social, and cultural groups. This past March, McKennitt went on tour to promote her album, The Wind That Shakes the Barley. She traveled across Europe, ending her journey in Istanbul. At the moment, she has no tour dates scheduled – one can only hope that she is working on another awe-inspiring album. A few similar artists would be Clannad, Mediæval Bæbes, The Moon and The Nightspirit, and FAUN. Loreena McKennitt can be found on both MySpace and Facebook. Her website is www. quinlanroad.com – where she does take letters from fans and responds to them when she can. When I hear the name Loreena McKennitt, I think of our world’s history and happiness – I hope the same thought crosses your mind.

Discography:

• Elemental (Quinlan Road, 1985) • To Drive The Cold Winter Away (Quinlan Road, 1987) • Parallel Dreams (Quinlan Road, 1987) • The Visit (Quinlan Road, 1991) • The Mask And Mirror (Quinlan Road, 1994) • A Winter Garden: Five Songs For The Season (Quinlan Road, 1995) • The Book Of Secrets (Quinlan Road, 1997) • Live In Paris And Toronto (Quinlan Road, 1999) • An Ancient Muse (Quinlan Road, 2006) • Nights from the Alhambra (Perseus Productions/Quinlan Road, 2007) • A Moveable Musical Feast (Perseus Productions/Quinlan Road, 2008) • A Midwinter Night’s Dream (Quinlan Road, 2008) • The Wind That Shakes the Barley (Quinlan Road, 2010)

Our monthly featured artists can be heard on: www.myspace.com/paganedgemagazine 20

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November 2011 • Volume 2 21

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™• November 2011 • Volume 2

Meditation continued from page 11

You can hear the birds that are still gathered around the birdfeeder located close to the edge of the forest. The male finches are starting to change from sunshine yellow to pale yellow. The bright red cardinals move from the trees to the birdfeeder and back to the security of the trees. A blue jay is perched on a limb of a nearby tree watching the other birds. There is a pair of brown and white speckled flickers seeking out the tasty insects buried deep within the earth. You can see the majestic white capped mountains in the distance. You have finished your beverage. You get up out of the chair and take the cup to the kitchen. You go to your bedroom and get your pajamas. You get a clean soft fluffy towel. You can smell the laundry scent and fabric softener on the towel. In the bathroom, you hang the towel on a hook. You remove your clothes and set them aside. You turn on the water to your shower. You extend your arm and allow the water of the shower to run over your hand so you can check the temperature of the water. The water is just right. It is not too hot… it is not too cold. You step into the shower. You feel the water splash onto your

head and wet your hair. The water flows over your face and down your neck and shoulders Down your arms… chest… pelvis. Down your thighs… legs… feet. You turn around so can feel the water cascade down your neck… back… butt Down the backs of your legs and the heels of your feet. You are totally and completely wet and warm from the water. You gather your soap and washcloth. You rub the soap over… under… around the washcloth. As you rub the soapy washcloth over your body, thoughts begin to flit through your consciousness. There is an issue that you have refused to confront. You have buried IT deep… deep… deep… inside. You realize that IT is still there. IT has stopped you from moving forward. IT has blocked your way to peace and happiness. How many times has this issue interrupted your dreams and awakened you? How much anguish... pain… sadness has this issue caused? Allow the warm water to continue to cascade over and down your body. As the water glides over your body, feel the issue being drawn from deep within you. Allow all the anguish… pain… sadness to pour out of your body as tears. See the tears mixing with the bubbles of soap. Feel the bubbles glide down your body and into the drain. All

the bubbles are gone. All that remains is clear, clean, warm water. You feel totally cleansed inside and out. You shut off the water and step out of the shower. You rub your body vigorously with the soft fluffy towel. You put on your pajamas. You glance over at the big window. You see white capped mountains in the distance. You see the pair of brown and white speckled flickers still seeking out the tasty insects in the earth. The blue jay is no longer perched on the limb of the nearby tree. The bright red cardinals are nestled in their nests. Only one yellow finch is still pecking at the birdseed. The sun has dipped behind the mountains and the soothing colors of twilight are visible in the sky. Darkness will soon cover the earth. Breathe in, hold it for a second, then exhale slowly counting one-two-three. Breathe in, hold it for a second, then exhale slowly counting one-twothree. Take a deep cleansing breath and exhale quickly and deeply. You are going to have a peaceful sleep and wonderful dreams. ™•

November 2011 • Volume 2 23

Manifestation continued from page 15

with your feelings, and swirl about in your mind before you are even aware of it. You can create an opening which will allow you to be more in touch with your emotional longings. The force of your Emotions is very strong and should be addressed with intent if possible. Water is the element of harmony of the Emotions. Let’s find that harmony. Take your time as you go through the following steps, allowing what you see to develop at its own pace. In your mind, picture vast oceans teaming with life… waves crashing upon shores… rolling rivers, like veins, transporting the precious life-sustaining liquid… waterfalls gracefully cascading over rocks… rain falling from saturated clouds… your own emotional tears: tears of love… tears of anger… tears of sorrow… tears of joy. Breathe deep… You are one drop, born of the embryonic sea from which the Great Mother brings forth life. You are fluid… feel the blood running through the rivers of your veins… feel the

fluent rising and falling of tidal movements within every cell of your body. Dive deep into the fountain of your inner mind… go beyond your usual recognition. Feel the energy of Water as it reflects your Emotions coursing through you... your awareness of your deepest feelings… the tug on your heart… the fueling of the creative ability of your imagination… the enabling of the insight of your intuition. Reach to the background of your unconscious mind, which does not ordinarily enter your perception… here exists receptiveness… trust… love… compassion… mysteries. Search out those channels of feeling within you… those currents of strength… find the serene pools of harmony. Give thanks to Water for its subtle, underlying energies. It is the everpresent element of Emotions… moods… enchantment…

Look for the next article in this series in the February 2012 i

Photos © Tootie Marie Imagery

™• November 2011 • Volume 2

psychic perception. You can see and understand how Water provides the source through which your feelings flow… how it provides the basic nourishment for the seeds of your Emotions to sprout a realization of your inner purpose. Now, focus on the Water or “Water object” you have been holding in your hands this entire time. Fix your attention to it. With all the fluid energies and effective currents you are now in touch with, take time to remember why this was the object you chose to represent Water. What makes it special? How does this object tie you to Water? How does it represent your Emotions, or Emotions in general? How does it represent harmony of the Emotions? Empower your Water or “Water object” with the energy you feel flowing through the links and channels created from your deep connection with Water. In working through the exercise above, you have reinforced your awareness of the association

you and the objects around you have with Water. This also raises your consciousness of Water as an important element in the Manifestation Process. You have an active part in the process. Celebrate Water: remember to show your love for and give thanks to Water. It is where the process of manifestation begins, swirling about in your stream of Emotions. Be conscious of where your Emotions lead you. Be perceptive of the undercurrents of energies deep within you and within the natural world. Try to follow your heart’s positive and loving ambitions. Work on expressing your Emotions and deepest feelings. Bring them toward the surface and find ways for creative release. References: Kindred, G. (2001). Sacred Celebrations: A Sourcebook. Gothic Image Publications Starhawk (1989). The Spiral Dance: A Rebirth of the Ancient Religion of the Great Goddess. HarperCollins Publishers

issue: SPIRIT — An Element in the Pentagram of Manifestation

Photos © Tootie Marie Imagery ™•

November 2011 • Volume 2 25

Under the Water continued from page 13

... requires the witch to have an understanding of her fears, limitations, and objectives. and to the surface of the water. It is only by acting – or not acting – with deliberation and purpose that escape becomes possible. This same metaphor can be applied to life as well. To dare means not only having the courage to act but also to trust that the action you are taking is the correct and necessary step to achieve your goals. Water from an elemental perspective is often associated with the emotional rather than the intellectual realms, meaning that when working with water we are operating from an instinctual rather than from a mental level. Understanding the difference between working from an emotional or instinctual basis rather than from a mental one is an important step towards gaining an understanding of the unconscious. As both Kant and Freud explained, the lower levels of the human psyche, whether characterized as the unconscious, root-self, or id, operate from that emotional instinctual level with all its attendant benefits and limitations. On the most basic level we are talking about the part of “self” that understands two things – desire and fear. Desire induces action and fear 26

™• November 2011 • Volume 2

induces retreat. Thus to master the unconscious we must dare to confront what we fear and act on desire. Mastering the “to dare” aspect of the witches’ pyramid requires the witch to have an understanding of her fears, limitations, and objectives. Obtaining such an understanding is not as simple as it sounds, because we are not talking about surface fears, for example, I am afraid of bees, or spiders, or the dark – rather we are talking about having an understanding of two other types of fears: 1. The societal fears, for example: breaking gender roles, or trying to do something that has never been done before. 2. The personal fears, for example: having bad taste in men, or feeling that you are not intelligent enough, pretty enough, talented enough, etc… When confronted with these types of fears we experience a mental, instinctual retreat, from the goals we have set and it is not always easy to understand why this retreat happens – or why our objective has failed until

we can discover the underlying cause. Starhawk referred to this process of overcoming as moving beyond the “power over” strictures of our society and embracing self-values (what you find to be personally important to you – rather than what others tell you ought to be important).2 The first step in obtaining mastery over the “to dare” cornerstone is to engage the unconscious and to dive deep into the darkest parts of the individual psyche. Again this is not as easy as it sounds – this is an ongoing process that the witch engages in as she travels the road of the mysteries. In Dreaming the Dark, the practitioner engages in a series of trance meditations under the guidance of other initiates. Each trance is designed to take the practitioner to and beyond the point of limitation—at its essence it is a confrontation with fear. Janet and Stewart Farrar discuss the concept of the witches’ pyramid, as one of the essential elements of modern witchcraft – there are four corners or pillars to the pyramid to correspond to one of the four elements. For a complete discussion of the witches’ pyramid read Janet and Stewart Farrar’s the Witches’ Way. 2 Starhawk, Dreaming the Dark. 1

Gentle Water continued from page 17

less than one week without having consumed its share of love. Love has the ability to mold and shape the activity of all other elements…” Water, is the realm of the emotions. Happiness, joy, love, tranquility, serenity are some manifestations of the water element within us. Likewise, water can show its unprecedented strength and characteristics in the not so lovely: Envy, anger, malice, jealousy, riotousness, contempt, fear and pain. If we contemplate the nature of water around us, we can understand the activity of water within us. Not all water is warm and serene like a bubble bath or a dip in the Hawaiian waves of the Pacific Ocean. Some water is bitterly cold, able to kill within minutes. Sometimes water is unbearably hot, becoming steam and scalding downpours. Some water is frozen solid and resists all motion, making of itself a mountain of ice that hides the larger part of its menacing face beneath the surface of the wave. During this tide of the Cycle of Life, we are called upon to reflect and deepen our knowledge of the element

Water. Soon, we will find ourselves plunged into the darkness of the winter and the harsh aspects of water become readily apparent. As a meandering stream in the springtime gives such pleasure and comfort, the icy waters that cut away the banks of rivers and lakes can threaten to obliterate what stability we thought that we had. Coming to terms with our emotions and the ways that we express, regress or redress them, allows us to grow as human beings who are aware of ourselves and are not mastered by rogue waves or capsized by ghostlike icebergs at midnight. One way in which we can incorporate water and appreciate its companionship is by mindfully communing with it. Being aware of the caress of our bath or shower water, drinking deeply of a cool and refreshing glass of water, or allowing ourselves to experience the delight of a captured snowflake on our tongue are a few ways to experience and enjoy the water element. We may also make a concerted effort to embrace this wild and wonderful element by actively engaging with it in a short yet respectful water ceremony each day. A simple chant of

blessing: Waters Gentle waters Gentle waters that flow to the Sea; Waters Gentle waters Gentle waters that flow within Me; Waters Gentle waters Gentle waters bring all life to be. * We bless and pour out the waters into our home each day in a dedicated pitcher and bowl. The water has a pinch of salt to remind us of our connection to the Womb of the Great Mother. Each time we pause to meditate, we bless ourselves in mind, lips, heart and hands. Fingers into the bowl of blessing and then touched to the forehead, lips and chest, remind us of the sacred waters from which we were born and the Deep to which our spirits will one day return. Taking a moment to bless and fortify ourselves is one way that we can move deeper into the mystery that is the Water element, alive and moving within and around us at all times. At day’s end, any remaining blessed waters are poured back to the Land in thanksgiving.

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November 2011 • Volume 2 27

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