Jeanine's Cafe Noir

Leave Of Absence...

2010-11-30T17:53:00.002-05:00

I had not realized it had been so long since I'd posted. So much has happened in the recent past that has kept me away from here. Actually, from both blogs. Or should I say, both parts of the same blog.

Well, now that things are beginning to settle, I will thankfully be able to come back and share what's been going on. I am especially excited to share the newest crochet items that I've made and the ones that are soon to be done.

See you soon!

Pentacle/Aunk Amulet

2009-04-10T14:02:00.004-04:00

This Beaded Peyote Stitched Amulet Pendant is two-sided so that it can be worn or hung with either the Pentacle or the Aunk facing forward.

Both the Pentacle and the Aunk have a vine with flowers intertwined within the pattern and the rope the Amulet is attached to has a double-strand of size 15/0 seed beads with both small beaded beads & Swarovski Crystals in 2 sizes.

Netted Chain

2009-04-10T14:00:00.002-04:00

This simple netted chain is done in 3 colors with 2 sizes of seed beads and measures 22" in length.

Zulu Necklace

2009-04-10T13:59:00.001-04:00

This Zulu Patterned Necklace is about 32" in length and has a hand-painted bead with a bird in the center.

Zulu Bracelet

2009-04-10T13:58:00.001-04:00

This Zulu bracelet measures 7" in length and matches the Zulu Necklace except in color.

Miniture Beaded Purse

2009-04-08T12:12:00.004-04:00

This miniture beaded purse is done in peyote stitch with delicas size 11/0. I saw one similar and decided to try my own version. I think the original one was done in square stitch though I chose to create mine in peyote.

The bag itself is about 1.25" wide x 1" high.

Bargello Necklace

2009-04-08T12:00:00.006-04:00

Victorian Beaded Bracelet

2009-04-08T11:56:00.004-04:00

This Victorian Inspired Beaded Bracelet is 6.5" long and made with Swarovski Pearls, Seed Beads in 3 sizes and small Roundels in brass & peridot.

Red Guitar Bracelet

2009-02-26T08:34:00.005-05:00

This Guitar Bracelet is done in odd-count Peyote Stitch. Drawing out the pattern was actually more difficult than creating the bracelet itself. I also have a pattern for an electric guitar but have not started it yet. Once I do, the photos will be posted here.

The bracelet measures just under 7" and the end of the "neck" of the guitar has a small loop that wraps around a toggle on the body of the guitar.

Teal Awareness Ribbon

2009-02-26T08:33:00.003-05:00

Victorian "Fan"tasy Necklace

2009-02-26T08:27:00.004-05:00

Aptly named Victorian "Fan"tasy Necklace due to the 6 fans around the necklace. The greens & copper tones used in this pattern evoke for me, a very Victorian theme.

Beaded Tea Sets

2009-02-26T08:16:00.011-05:00

Below are photos of a beaded tea set whose original design was Diane Fitzgerald's pattern. I altered it a bit though not by much.

The cream colored tea pot has a creamer, sugar bowl, tea cup & saucer, as well as a small beaded spoon that matches it. The blue teapot is not part of a set, yet.

Awareness Ribbons (all)

2008-10-08T11:37:00.004-04:00

Below is a photo of all of the ribbons that I have so far. I am planning to do them in yellow as well as green - I am just waiting for the beads to arrive.

Each ribbon can be done in an afternoon. They take me about 3 hours to do, depending on how fast I am working and what else is going on in the house.

If you are familiar with peyote stitch and would like the pattern that I used for these ribbons, please email me and I will send it to you. It helps if you already know odd-count peyote as the pattern does not teach the stitch itself. Once you know it, it is a fairly easy pattern to follow.

Awareness Ribbons - Black

2008-10-08T11:32:00.003-04:00

I was born during the Vietnam War and a few of my uncles fought in that war. I wanted to do something for those that did not come home. As well as for my fiance who spent 9 years in the Navy and did 2 tours in the Gulf War.

The ribbon ends on this particular one are longer to allow for the POW & MIA lettering. When worn on a jacket the tail ends lay flat so that I don't have to worry about them being overly long.

Black Ribbon:
This color is a symbol of mourning, melanoma, and gang prevention

Awareness Ribbons - White

2008-10-08T11:31:00.001-04:00

White Ribbon:
This color is a symbol of innocence, victims of terrorism, violence against women, peace, right to life, bone cancer, adoptees, and retinal blastoma

Awareness Ribbons - Purple

2008-10-08T11:28:00.005-04:00

With this ribbon I chose to follow the original pattern when it came to where to place a small silver heart where the ribbon's tail ends crossed one another. The heart was stitched after the ribbon was completed and is sewn over it. Unlike the red ribbon that has the heart within the pattern.

Purple Ribbon:
This color is a symbol of pancreatic cancer, testicular cancer, thyroid cancer, domestic violence, ADD/ADHD, alzheimer's, religious tolerance, animal abuse, the victims of 9/11 including the police and firefighters, Crohn's disease and colitis, cystic fibrosis, lupus, leimyosarcoma, and fibromyalgia

Awareness Ribbons - Red

2008-10-08T11:26:00.002-04:00

This version doesn't have the border around it like the pink one, but instead has a heart within the pattern of the edge of the ribbon.

Red Ribbon:
Most commonly associated with the fight against AIDS and HIV, this ribbon is also a symbol for heart disease, stroke, substance abuse, MADD, DARE, Epidermolysis Bullosa, Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy

Awareness Ribbons - Pink

2008-10-08T11:13:00.006-04:00

I recently saw a pattern for Beaded Awareness Ribbons and as I've always liked them, I decided to try to make one.

The pattern I was given was for a beaded ribbon done in a combination of ladder stitch and brick stitch. I altered the pattern so that it was done in odd-count peyote stitch. A similar pattern but for me, I prefer peyote stitch. Besides it being one of my favorites, the original pattern called for size 11 seed beads which I changed to Delicas size 11's. I find they have a more uniform size.

So far, I've done 5 awareness ribbons and each one is slightly different.

Pink Ribbon:

Most commonly associated with breast cancer awareness, this ribbon is also a symbol for birth parents, and childhood cancer awareness

Lacy Beaded Bracelet

2008-04-29T15:44:00.005-04:00

Below are 3 lacy beaded bracelets. The pink one was a gift for my mom. When I finished it, I liked it so much I made 2 more for myself.

Moonlight Windows Bracelet

2008-04-29T15:35:00.006-04:00

Below is a bracelet called "Moonlight Windows" done in peyote stitch.

The beads used are: Delicas 11/0, 12mm flat coin pearls, 4mm bicone crystals, seed beads size 15/0... this was a wonderful pattern that I found in a magazine a few months back. Though I made this one shown here, I cannot take credit for the original pattern.

Beaded Snake Chain Necklace

2008-04-29T15:27:00.006-04:00

Here is a necklace I made for a coin that my boyfriend gave me from Italy that he's had since he was in the Navy. I am half Italian and speak Italian as well so the coin has special meaning to me. But even more, it is something he had for many years and gave to me.

This necklace was done with 4mm silver pearls, seed beads 11/0 & 15/0.

For the pendant I used Delicas 11/0 and seed beads in size 15/0.

Beaded Containers/Boxes

2008-04-29T14:49:00.011-04:00

My newfound hobby is beading! I started to learn to bead about 10 years ago than stopped for a few years. When my boyfriend's daughter sent him a small beaded bear, I went back to beading again. Since then, I have moved on to beading necklaces, bracelets, rings and small beaded boxes or containers.

Here are 2 photos of one of the boxes I have done that is six-sided:

Here are 3 photos of another of the boxes I have done that is 3-sided:

The beaded boxes or containers are easy to do once you learn the technique for each one. The beads used are Delicas 11/0 and the stitch is a variation of peyote. I found an absolutely wonderful book that offers all you need to create these. If you are interested, please email me and I will send you the info.

More on Mantras...

2007-02-21T14:06:00.000-05:00

Mantras are ancient Sanskrit healing words that have a powerful effect on your entire being when chanted repeatedly during meditation or mudra practice. The hard palate in your mouth has fifty-eight energy points that connect to your entire body. Stimulating these points with sound vibrations affects your mental and physical energy. Certain sounds that stimulate these points have a very healing quality. When you repeat aloud or whisper these ancient mantras or scientific healing-sound combinations, the meridians on your hard palate are activated in a specific order that re-patterns the energy of your whole system.

I have also included a pronunciation guide to make it easier with these mantras.

Mantra Pronunciation Guide:

A like the a in about
AA like the a in want
AY like the ay in say
AI like the a in sand
I like the i in bit
U like the u in put
OO like the oo in good
O like the o in no
E like the ay in say
EE like the ee in meet
AAU like the ow in now

SAT rhymes with 'what'
NAM rhymes with 'mom'
WAHE sounds like 'wa-hay'
GU sounds like 'put'
Emphasize the 'ch' at the end of every 'such'
Pronounce the consonant v softly
Roll the r's slightly

When chanting a mantra like "Haree Har Haree Har," make sure you do not move your lips, and pronounce it with the tongue only.

Mantras:

HAR HARE HAREE WAHE GURU
Hah-rah; hah-ray; hah-ree; wa-hay; guh-roo
God/dess Is the Creator of Supreme Power and Wisdom

SA TA NA MA
Suu; tuu; nuu; muu
Infinity, Birth, Death, Rebirth

OM MANI PADME HUM
(Behold the Jewel in the Lotus)
Omm; ma-nay; pod-me; huum
Peace and compassion for all sentient beings

HUMEE HUM, BRAHAM HUM, BRAHAM HUM
Hu-mee; Hum; bra-hom; bra-hom hum
Calling upon your infinite self

I AM THINE WAHE GURU
I am Thine wa-hay; guh-roo
I am thine, divine teacher within

HUMEE HUM BRAHAM
Hu-mee; Hum; bra-hom
Calling on the infinite self

AKAL AKAL SIRI AKAL
A-kal; a-kal; si-ri; a-kal
Timeless is the one who achieves perfection of the spirit

OM NEMAH SHEVIYA
Omm; knee-ma; shi-vaya
I bow to Shiva

AKUPA AHAU (Mayan Mantra)
akupa; a-how
Anticipating the Ancestors

Chakra Mantras

2007-02-21T13:37:00.000-05:00

When working with the Chakras, there are various ways of aligning or realigning the chakras. What follows is a chart to do just that...

One must keep in mind when working with the chakras that in order to realign all of the chakras you need to work from the top to the bottom. It is kind of like emptying a laundry basket. You cannot get to the bottom without first removing the "block" on top.
Begin by working with the Crown Chakra and move through all seven.

The Chuchumna or Chakra Tube is in a line from the base of the spine to the crown of the head (though there are other chakras, for now I'll focus on these seven). The word Chakra is a Sanscrit word that translates to "Energy Conducting Wheel" - each chakra turns or rotates the opposite way as the one that follows it, similar to the gears in a watch or clock. When one is blocked, the others become blocked too. In order to realign one, all must be realigned.

CHAKRA ----------PLACEMENT -----ATTRIBUTE ----------ENERGY ----CHANT SOUND

Base Chakra ----- pelvic area ----- Earth Connection ----- I Have ----- Oh (as in rope)

Spleen ------------lower belly ------Physical Body ----------I Feel ------ OO (as in rule)

Solar Plexus -----belly button -----Will / Power -----------I Can --------Ah (as in God)

Heart -------------mid chest ---------Emotion ----------------I Love -------Aye (long A)

Throat ------------throat ------------Communication ---------I Speak -----EE (long E)

3^rd Eye -----------mid forehead -----Insight -----------------I See --------MmmNnn (as it looks)

Crown ------------top of head --------Spirituality -----------I Know -------NgNg (ying, ying)

The use of crystals to align the chakras is a common practice. Below is a short list of some crystals that can be used:

*Some are by color, while others represent the Chakra in their attributes.

Red/Base Chakra/1^st
Red Jasper, Red Tiger's-eye, Hematite, Tiger's-eye, Sugilite

Orange/Spleen Chakra/2^nd
Red Jasper, Bloodstone, Carnelian, Red Jasper, Ruby

Yellow/Solar Plexus/3^rd
Amber, Citrine, Tiger's-eye, Amber

Green w/pink center/Heart Chakra/4^th
Unakite, Green Fluorite, Epidote, Aventurine, Bloodstone, Moss Agate, Galaxtite, Ruby, Sugilite, Chlorite,

Blue/Throat Chakra/5^th
Blue Tiger's-eye, Blue Fluorite, Angelite, Iolite, Lapis Lazuli, Aquamarine,

Indigo/3^rd Eye Chakra/6^th
Amethyst, Sodalite, Lapis Lazuli, Moss Agate, Sugilite

Violet/Crown Chakra/7^th
Amethyst, Clear Quartz, Amber, Chlorite, Amethyst, Botswana Agate

What Is The Aura?

2007-02-21T13:30:00.000-05:00

The Aura

The Aura or electromagnetic field that surrounds and interpenetrates with the human body is ovoid in shape. The widest part is around the head and the narrowest beneath the feet. It comprises seven layers, each layer slightly larger then it's predecessor.

The seven layers constitute the physical body; the etheric sheath or energy body; the astral sheath or emotional body; the mental body; the higher mental; the casual and the bodyless body.

The bodyless body establishes that Divine part of us which has no beginning and no ending; which through practices such as meditation, enables us to realize and become one with it. From the moment of birth we are subject to conditioning. Through this, we forget our life's purpose. We then become like travelers working our way across a strange country without a map. Apart from conditioning, we are also given free will. This enables us to choose which path we take. Unfortunately, we do not always choose the correct one. How many times can you remember sitting at one of life's crossroads. Intuitively you know which way you should travel but insight reveals it to be a very stony and difficult path, so you take what looks to be the easier way. This may prove to be correct for a time but gradually you will be brought back by your higher self to the path which you intuitively felt to be correct. Our true self knows its chosen way and will, at all costs, continually confront us with it until we find the courage to take it.

The higher mental body could be called the voice of our intuition. If we learn to "tune in" to this part of our self, we are able to receive Divine inspiration. The answers to life's problems will be revealed and we will be taught spiritual truths and cosmic law. The law which creation adheres to and works with.

The mental body is connect with thought. Each thought that we think creates a pattern or form. These accumulate in the mental body and can be projected out into the environment, surrounding us with thought forms which we and other individuals have created.

These thought forms also attract the thought forms surrounding us that are of a similar nature. Therefore, if we think negative thoughts we will attract negative thought forms; likewise, positive thoughts attract positive thought forms. It is therefore important to have a positive outlook on life, especially when working with self-healing.

When working with absent healing, the mental body is part of the aura with which we work. We visualize the person who has requested healing lying in peaceful surroundings. We then create beautiful healing forms and project them to the patient. The greater the control we have over the mental body, the greater the strength of healing. When we have acquired the power of thought, it must only be used for the good of others. Remember the law of karma; what ever good you do be repaid with good; what ever evil, retribution will follow. In other words, "what you send out, returns to you."

The emotional or astral sheath is our "feeling" body. In those people who have not learned to be the master over their emotions, this body is in a state of imbalance. Because it is interspersed with the other layers of the aura and the physical body, these too are affected. It is similar to one of the organs of the physical body being diseased and the rest of the body being affected through trying to compensate for it.

The sheath nearest to the physical body is the etheric. The etheric and physical body are closely interwoven and disintegrate together at death. Every physical particle has its etheric counterpart, which is a perfect replica of the physical form. This is why it is known as the etheric double, and why people who have had a limb amputated can still feel pain or sensation from it - it is still present in it's etheric form. The etheric lays down the basic pattern upon which the physical body is directly related to the tone and quality of the etheric body. Apart from containing the nadis, it contains seven major and twenty-one minor chakras plus numerous acupuncture points. A major chakra is defined by the crossing of twenty-one energy lines, a minor chakra constitutes fourteen energy lines, and an acupuncture point is seven.

The Nadis are the very fine energy channels that are within the same sheath or "Chuchumna" or chakra tube, through which pranic energy flows. This network of infinitely intricate nadis constitutes the counterpart of the entire nervous system which forms an important part of the human mechanism. The number of nadis are numerous. Some ancient documents state there to be 72,000, while others say there are as many as 350,000.

Where did Reiki Come From?

2007-02-21T13:23:00.000-05:00

Where did or does Reiki come from?

Dr. Mikao Usui was a master teacher who had studied many faiths. In fact many faiths have tried to claim him. He says that he belongs to all for when you have true enlightenment you are at source where all is one. It is taught that Dr. Usui learned Reiki from Buddhist Monks (some believe that Jesus also learned his healing methods from Buddhist Monks). He defined the practice and gave it a more specific direction as he was directed by his visions or guides, as Reiki opens you to your guides as well. He spent the rest of his life healing and helping people. By the time of his death he had made 16-18 people Masters. One of them Hayashi, attuned Hawayo Takata who was one of the first known women Reiki Masters. Before her death in 1980 she attuned 22 Masters who have helped to spread the teachings of Reiki throughout the world.

Basically Reiki is an energy that is passed or taught much like the game of telephone. That is why from teacher to teacher the methods may vary or different things may be taught. It is very important that you have complete trust in your teacher so that you can be opened to receive the energy freely. You will feel a flowing sensation often combined with a warmth or heat (Mark 16.18) when receiving Reiki.

What are the effects or qualities of Reiki?

It vitalizes your body and soul, balances your body's energy, loosens blocks and promotes total relaxation, cleans out toxins, it adjusts itself to fit the need of the recipient, it is a holistic method that helps the body's natural ability to heal, and it can also be used on plants or animals.

Reiki can also be used to charge or bless your food, or used to clear and charge crystals. (We'll get to this a little later.) Reiki will open you to the love from source and allow you to feel the subtle unity between yourself and the universe.

Reiki can open Karmic processing, sometimes very subtly and other times not so subtle. It releases held emotions and helps you to move forward on your spiritual path.

The Top 10 Things to Know about Reiki

2007-02-21T13:16:00.000-05:00

When Jesus healed the sick, he turned to the crowd watching and said..."All these things I do, you can do also...and more." Maybe he was right!

1. We ALL have Reiki energy.
Everyone is a healer. What has happened over lifetimes and eons, is that doubts and "can't be's" have plugged up the channel. The painter who gets drops of inspiration in his mind...this is Reiki energy making its way through this very clogged channel.

2. Reiki is everyone's birthright.
Everyone has the Reiki channel. And touch always heals. Anyone can lay their hands on another person (or animal, or plant) and help heal them by transferring their own Reiki energy. But you're using your personal energy. With the Reiki attunement, the channel is cleared and you now have an inexhaustible supply of healing energy.

3. Reiki is holistic.
Reiki balances the body, mind and spirit. And Reiki is very happy to work with all other energies. It's like jell-o after a meal. It sort of runs down and fills in all the spaces and connects everything.

4. Reiki can correct problems before they manifest.
All of us are surrounded by an electromagnetic field. And it has been proven scientifically, that everything that comes into being physically first forms in the electromagnetic field. So a problem that is getting ready to occur in the physical, has already formed in the electromagnetic field. And Reiki is capable of going into that electromagnetic field and correcting the problem before it has physically manifested.

5. Reiki can have many effects on the body.
Peace and relaxation are the most common things that might be experienced. But Reiki can also balance energy; increase awareness; increase creativity; help to release emotions, energy blocks, stress and toxins; support the body's natural ability to heal itself; vitalize both body and soul; re-establish spiritual equilibrium and mental and emotional balance; loosen up blocked energy; and is an extremely pleasant, non-invasive, and holistic method of healing.

6. Reiki can help in the present, go into the past and into the future.
Some of the most profound healing comes from healing the cause, not the affliction. Reiki can go into the past and heal the CAUSE of the problem. Reiki can also go into the future, to an event that is coming up, and there will be healing power waiting for you as you step into that event.

7. Reiki can be sent over infinite distances instantly.
Next door, across the state, around the world. And it's not like you cut a pie into nine pieces and give each person a piece. Everybody gets the whole pie.

8. Reiki is a thousand-year old tradition.
Reiki is a very ancient science and has been documented in 2500 year-old Sanskrit sutras. Stanford researchers, using highly sensitive instruments which can measure the flow of energy as it enters the body, determined that Reiki energy enters the healer through the top of the head and exits through the hands of the Reiki healer.

9. Reiki is the Japanese word for Universal Life Force Energy.
When you break down the two syllables: "REI" means universal. "KI" is the vital 'life force energy' which flows through all living beings (like the 'chi' in Chinese medicine).

10. Reiki must be experienced to be appreciated.
Reiki is a living, breathing thing. Totally alive. Totally sentient. Reiki is a friend and an ally. If you can't trust anything else in your life, you can trust Reiki. Several months ago there was an article in a national magazine about a teaching hospital in the East that allows Reiki practitioners into the operating room to give Reiki to patients during surgery. All reports were that these patients healed more quickly and spent less post-op time in the hospital than those who did not receive a Reiki treatment during surgery.

Om Symbol

2006-08-29T11:03:00.000-04:00

To a yogi, no symbol is more powerful than the syllable OM, as witnessed by these words from the Mandukya Up-anishad : "OM: this eternal word is all; what was, what is and what shall be."

The Om or Aum as it is also called, is a Sanscrit letter. Each part has a separate meaning, but when placed together, it means: When the individual spirit in man passes through the veil and rests in the transcendental he is liberated from the three states and their qualities.

Below the symbol is broken down into separate parts with each part explained;

Om/Aum Symbol
the long lower curve represents the dream state

the upper curve stands for the waking state

the curve issuing from the centre symbolizes deep, dreamless sleep

the crescent shape stands for "maya", the veil of illusion

and the dot for the transcendental state

This is a second version of the same symbol as above. There are many different versions with slight variations. This is, as said above, a Sanscript word, and as in any written language, variations are common in the hand-written word.

The Music of Om
Om is not a word but rather an intonation, which, like music, transcends the barriers of age, race, culture and even species. It is made up of three Sanskrit letters, aa, au and ma which, when combined together, make the sound Aum or Om. It is believed to be the basic sound of the world and to contain all other sounds. It is a mantra or prayer in itself. If repeated with the correct intonation, it can resonate throughout the body so that the sound penetrates to the centre of one's being, the atman or the soul.

There is harmony, peace and bliss in this simple but deeply philosophical sound. By vibrating the sacred syllable Om, the supreme combination of letters, if one thinks of the Ultimate Personality of Godhead and quits his body, he will certainly reach the highest state of "stateless" eternity, states the Bhagavad Gita.

The Vision of Om
Om provides a dualistic viewpoint. On one hand, it projects the mind beyond the immediate to what is abstract and inexpressible. On the other hand, it makes the absolute more tangible and comprehensive. It encompasses all potentialities and possibilities; it is everything that was, is, or can yet be. It is omnipotent and likewise remains undefined.

The Power of Om
While meditating, when we chant Om, we create within ourselves a vibration that attunes sympathy with the cosmic vibration and we start thinking universally. The momentary silence between each chant becomes palpable. Mind moves between the opposites of sound and silence until, at last, it ceases the sound. In the silence, the single thought - Om - is quenched; there is no thought. This is the state of trance, where the mind and the intellect are transcended as the individual self merges with the Infinite Self in the pious moment of realization. It is a moment when the petty worldly affairs are lost in the desire for the universal. Such is the immeasurable power of Om.

Vibration & the Om Symbol
The vibration produced by chanting Om in the physical universe corresponds to the original vibration that first arose at the time of creation. The sound of Om is also called Pranava, meaning that it sustains life and runs through Prana or breath. Om also represents the four states of the Supreme Being. The three sounds in Om (AUM) represent the waking, dream and deep sleep states and the silence which surrounds Om represents the Turiya state.

Because the first of the three states of consciousness is the waking state, it is represented by the sound "A" pronounced like "A" in accounting. Because the dream state of consciousness lies between the waking and the deep sleep states, it is represented by the letter "U" which lies between the "A" and "M". This "U" is pronounced like the "U" in would. The last state of consciousness is the deep sleep state and is represented by "M" pronounced as in "sum." This closes the pronunciation of Om just as deep sleep is the final stage of the mind at rest. Whenever Om is recited in succession there is an inevitable period of silence between two successive Oms. This silence represents the "fourth state" known as "Turiya" which is the state of perfect bliss when the individual self recognizes his identity with the supreme.

Meditation with Om
Retire to a quite place, sit down, close your eyes and completely relax your muscles and nerves. Concentrate on the space between your eyebrows and quieten and silence the conscious mind. Begin to repeat "Om" mentally while associating the ideas of infinity, eternity, immortality, etc. You must repeat Om with the feeling that you are the infinite and all-pervading. Mere repetition of Om will not bring the desired result. Keep the meaning of Om always at heart. Feal Om. Feel that you are the pure, perfect, all-knowing, eternal, free, Brahman. Feel that you are absolute consciousness and the infinite, unchanging existance. Every part of your body should powerfully vibrate with these ideas. This feeling should be kept up all day long. Practice regularly and steadily with sincerity, faith, perseverance and enthusiasm in the morning, midday and evening.

The Antahkarana Symbol

2006-08-28T11:33:00.000-04:00

The Antahkarana symbol is described as a part of spiritual anatomy. It is the connection between the physical brain and the Higher Self. It is this connection that must heal and develop if we are to grow spiritually. The Antahkarana symbol shown here represents this connection and activates it whenever you are in its presence.

The science of Radionics indicates that lines drawn on paper create a psychic effect on the space surrounding the drawing and will influence the human aura and chakras in various ways depending on the pattern created. This validates the age old practice of yantra meditation which makes use of visual images to purify and evolve the consciousness.

The Antahkarana is an ancient healing and meditation symbol that has been used in Tibet and China for thousands of years. It is a powerful symbol and simply by having it in your presence, it will create a positive effect on the chakras and aura. When doing healing work, it focuses and deepens the actions of the healing energies involved. When meditating with the symbol on your person or close by, it automatically creates what the Taoists call the great microcosmic orbit wherein the psychic energies that would normally enter the crown chakra enter the feet and travel up the back of the body to the top of the head and then down the front to the feet again, thus grounding the person to the earth and creating a continuous flow of energy through the chakras. It will also neutralize negative energy that has collected in objects such as jewellery or crystals simply by placing the object between two symbols. In addition, it will enhance all healing work including Reiki, Polarity Therapy, Chiropractic, Hypnotherapy, Past Life Regression, etc. These positive effects have been confirmed over and over by the improved results noted by those using the symbol and by clairvoyant observation by those trained in sensing changes in the aura and chakras.

This symbol is multi-dimensional. From one perspective, it appears to be two dimensional, being made-up of three sevens on a flat surface. The three sevens represent the seven chakras, the seven colours and the seven tones of the musical scale. These three sevens are mentioned in the book of Revelations as the seven candle sticks, the seven trumpets and the seven seals.

From another perspective, this symbol appears as a three dimensional cube. Its energy moves up from two to three dimensions that can be seen and also continues up through unseen dimensions all the way to the highest dimension - the dimension of the Higher Self.

Historically, the use of this symbol can be traced back through a number of Reiki Masters to an ancient Tibetan meditation technique. The few Tibetan meditation masters who knew of the symbol tended to keep it to themselves so that the increased value it created for their work would add to their status. For this reason, its use has not been widely known.

The Tibetan meditation practice that used the Antahkarana took place in a room lit with candles. In the middle of the room was a large earthenware vessel shaped in an oval which symbolised the cosmic egg of the universe. The vessel was filled with several inches of water and in the middle was a stool. On the seat of the stool, inlaid in silver was the Antahkarana symbol. One wall was covered with copper, polished to a mirror finish. Tapestries were hung on the opposite wall which displayed Reiki symbols. A Tibetan Lama mediator would sit on the stool and gaze steadily at the image of the Reiki symbol reflected in the polished copper mirror. This yantra meditation would create one pointedness in the mind of the meditator, uniting the consciousness with the transcendental energies of the Reiki symbol while the Antahkarana symbol on the stool would focus the energies generated and cause them to evenly flow through all the chakras and to connect with the earth.

It is clear that the symbol did not originate within the Tibetan's philosophy, and there is no written record as to its true origin.

This sacred symbol has been kept a secret for thousands of years, being known and used by only a few. Now it is time for all to have access to this ancient and sacred symbol of healing.

Crown Chakra Mandala

2006-08-28T11:26:00.000-04:00

Crown Chakra: located at the top/crown of head.

The Sanskrit name is Sahasrara, meaning; thousandfold.

Associated Colors: violet, gold, white.

Element: Air.

The life lesson is: selflessness.

Main issue: spirituality, selflessness.

Associated body parts: upper skull, cerebral cortex, skin.

Goals: expanded consciousness.

Crystals: clear quartz, amethyst, diamond, white jade, white tourmaline, snowy quartz, herkimer diamond.

Third Eye Chakra Mandala

2006-08-28T11:22:00.000-04:00

Third Eye Chakra: located above and between eyebrows.

The Sanskrit name is Ajna, meaning; to perceive, to know.

Associated Color: indigo.

Element: Air.

The life lesson: emotional intelligence.

Main issue: intuition, wisdom.

Associated body parts: eyes, base of skull.

Goals: ability to "see" other than with the eyes.

Crystals: amethyst, purple apatite, azurite, calcite, sapphire, fluorite, lapis lazuli.

Throat Chakra Mandala

2006-08-28T11:18:00.000-04:00

Throat Chakra: located centrally, at base of neck.

The Sanskrit name is Vishuddha, meaning; purification.

Associated Color: blue.

Element: water.

The life lesson is: the power of choice, personal expression.

Main issue: communication, self-expression.

Associated body parts: throat, ears, nose, teeth, mouth, neck.

Goals: harmony with others, self-knowledge, creativity.

Crystals: turquoise, lapis lazuli, aquamarine, agate, celestite, sodalite, sapphire.

Heart Chakra Mandala

2006-08-28T10:59:00.000-04:00

Heart Chakra: located in the center of the chest.

The Sanskrit name is Anahata, meaning; sound that is made without any two things striking: unstruck.

Associated Colors: green/pink.

Element: water.

The life lesson is: forgiveness and compassion for oneself and others.

Main issue: beliefs about love and relationship.

Associated body parts: heart, chest, lungs, circulation.

Goals: balance, compassion & self-acceptance.

Crystals: watermelon tourmaline, rose quartz, emerald, green calcite, jade, azurite, aventurine quartz, malachite, moonstone.

Solar Plexus Chakra Mandala

2006-08-04T09:52:00.000-04:00

Solar Plexus Chakra: located between navel and base of sternum.

The Sanskrit name is Mannipura, meaning lustrous gem.

Associated Color: yellow.

Element: fire.

The life lesson is: self-esteem/self-confidence, the courage to take risks, to be.

Main issue: personal power, self will.

Associated body parts: digestive system, muscles.

Goals: purpose, effectiveness, endurance, self-respect.

Crystals: yellow citrine, topaz, aventurine quartz, sunstone.

Spleen Chakra Mandala

2006-08-04T09:46:00.000-04:00

Spleen Chakra: located in the lower abdomen, between naval and genitals.

The Sanskrit name is Svadhisthana, meaning; sweetness.

Associated Color: orange.

Element: fire.

The life lesson is: uncovering motivations influencing choices - based on conditioning.

Main issue: emotional balance/sexuality.

Associated body parts: sex organs, bladder, circulatory system, prostrate, womb.

Goals: allowing pleasure, creative expression.

Crystals: citrine, carnelian, golden topaz.

Base Chakra Mandala

2006-07-26T19:41:00.000-04:00

Mandalas are a fantastic way to focus your energy when you're meditating.
Below is one that can be used for the Base Chakra, as well as info on that specific Chakra.

*Chakra is the Sanscrit word for "Energy Conducting Wheel"

Base Chakra: located directly at the base of the spine, also known as the coccyx.

The Sanskrit name is Muladhara, meaning; root or support.

Associated color: red.

Element: is Earth.

The life lesson is: standing up for oneself.

Main issue: survival, physical needs.

Associated body parts: bones, skeletal structure.

Goals: physical health & fitness, grounding, stability and security.

Crystals: hematite, agate, bloodstone, tiger's eye, garnet, ruby, onyx, rose quartz, and smoky quartz.

Pathways

2006-07-25T00:48:00.000-04:00

Someone shared this with me quite a few years ago, and because of the impact it had on me with how I felt towards other's beliefs, I wanted to share it with others willing to read it. I hope you find meaning in the words that follow.

Well, it had been yet another bad day in the office, and once again it was the fault of that new girl, MaryAnne. She is one of those Wiccans, a so called witch. How can anyone in their right mind make this claim, knowing that it goes against God and all of the teachings of the bible? She doesn't even have the common decency to keep her satanic symbol, her pentagram necklace hidden from the view of the decent, God fearing people in the office. She has some nerve. I find that I cannot hate her for this though, for I know that she has been deceived. Satan works his evil in ways that she cannot see. I've seen that so called Wiccan Rede that she has tacked to the wall above her computer. On the surface, it looks like a decent loving belief, but all one must do is look, look closely and see that by practicing this way, and not embracing Jesus Christ as savior she is on the pathway to hell.

As I've said, it was a bad day in the office. Three times in the past few weeks I have been called in to see my supervisor, and he has told me that I am not allowed to preach to MaryAnne the word of God, to show her the error of her ways. Today, my supervisor told me that if I continue to "harass" MaryAnne, he will be forced to terminate me. How can he say this? He himself is a God fearing man. And, how can he be so tolerant of the evil that he sees insinuating itself into our workplace?

As I lay down to sleep last night, I asked the Lord for guidance. "God, grant me a true vision of you, so that I may better lead the faithless onto the righteous path."
"Oh, a true vision of Me is it? Are you sure that you're ready, truly ready to see, my son?" I sat bolt upright in bed, and there, at the foot of my bed, white of hair and beard, in a long, flowing white robe, stood the Lord my God. I made to leap from the bed and fall to my knees in front of Him, but he stopped me with a gesture. "Kneel not before me at this time my son. Instead, rise and walk with Me, so that you may get a glimpse of what I truly am, as you asked of me in your prayer." He took my hand, and as I looked, my bedroom was no longer there, but a pathway thru the woods.

We started to walk, and I was too awestruck for words. We took the path to the left, and we
were then inside St. Catherine's Church, in the middle of a service. While still standing beside me, God seemed to expand and fill the whole of the church. I could see smiles of contentment forming on some of the parishioners faces. I felt blessed. God smiled upon me.

"The Catholics hold such pretty masses, don't they? I like to stop here in this church, because not only do they speak the words, but they live the life, thru teaching, helping the sick and poor, not only with handouts, but helping them learn to help themselves. Now let us walk on," And we were back on the pathway.

We traveled a bit further along, and then were in the parlor of a funeral home. A young woman was kneeling before the casket, resting her head on it and crying. I could see by the similarity, that this dead man must be her father. God knelt beside her, and drew His arms about her. "Miss him, that is all right, but weep not for him, for now he is with Me". She wiped her eyes, and stood with a sad smile upon her face, and said "Good-bye Daddy. I'll miss you," and turned and left the room.

And we were back on the pathway. We walked a little ways, and we were in front of a large
lodge of some kind. I could hear music and laughter spilling out of the windows. I turned to look at God, and was shocked to see, not the flowing white robe, but Him wearing leather and animal furs, his hair and beard now the color of wheat, and a sword strapped across His back. He strode forth, and I saw him approach a figure I had not seen before. As I looked close, I was shocked to see that it was the same face that I had just seen dead, but looking young and strong, and dressed in ancient looking garb, an ax strapped to his waist. God strode up to him and grabbed him in a great bear hug. "Welcome my son. We've been waiting for you. Now, go inside and raise a cup or two, and meet with your brother." And, with a hearty slap on the back, he sent the man inside.

And then we were back on the pathway. We walked a bit further, and then we were in a mosque. At least I believed so, as I had never been in one before, but had seen pictures of them. The group of worshippers was not large, but I could see their rapt faces as they listened to the mullah speak. He was speaking to them of purity, both of the mind and the body, bringing them closer to Allah. And as he spoke, God, dressed now in the robes of the desert, walked among them and briefly laid his hands upon each set of shoulders. And, from their faces, I could see that these men knew that the words of the mullah were true, and that their spirits felt touched by God.

And then we were back on the pathway. After we had walked a bit, we found ourselves in an
African village. People with skin as black as night, the women with their breast shamefully
bared, were dancing in a circle, to the rhythm of the drums being played by a group of men.
Somehow though, I was not offended by the bared breasts, and the music seemed to seep into my soul. God was then a mighty lion, and He let forth a mighty roar. The villagers did not seem to hear, but the drums increased their pounding, and the dancers danced with a frenzy.

And then we were back on the pathway. We walked a bit more, and were on the top of a cliff.
There sat, painted and covered with feathers, an old Navajo man. As I watched, he seemed to change into the form of an eagle and take flight, and we were flying with him, soaring high into the air, seeing the vista spread out below us. And God, in the form of an eagle Himself, seemed to guide this other eagle thru the air, over mountains and thru valleys, until he came upon a group of men. As I watched, the old Navajo man was no longer an eagle, but a young boy instead, and he sat at the feet of these men, to listen to the words of his elders.

And then we were back on the pathway. We traveled a bit, and then we were in a forest clearing. I knew this place. It was known as a place of devil worship and evil. In the center of the clearing roared a great bonfire, and kiwi torches outlined a circle of sorts. Inside this circle, in a circle themselves, stood 7 men and 6 women, dressed in robes of varying colors, their arms raised to the moon. Was that one woman MaryAnne? I really couldn't be sure. And God walked among them in the circle, touching each one. He seemed not to be an older man now, but as he made each of three turns around the circle, he was first a young girl, bouncing with energy, then a woman of middle years, with a tender smile for all Her children, and finally, an old woman, body bent, but holding Her head up with pride. And a woman stepped forward, and yes, it was MaryAnne, and lifted her head to the sky. "Great Goddess, Mother of us all, thank you for joining us tonight. Stay if You will, go if You must. Know in our hearts You will always be welcome. Blessed be!!"

And we were back on the pathway. As we walked along, ahead in the distance I saw the most
beautiful man. Yes, beautiful, though I would never normally think of a man this way. With
blonde hair, and a golden robe, he seemed to radiate sunshine. God and this golden man nodded to each other as they passed, sharing a smile together. "My Lord" I asked, "was that an angel?" "Well, yes, he is known as that to some. He is also known to some as a god himself. That was Lucifer" And His words caused me to stumble. I couldn't believe that we had just passed the ultimate evil. God looked at me, and He knew my mind. And he chuckled a bit. "Think about it logically My son. The Lucifer that you know is a fallen angel, cast out of heaven for challenging Me. If I am the all powerful being, above all others, how could he do this? How could I allow it?" "But, in the bible...." I stammered. "The Bible is a wonderful book, as are the Koran and the Torah and many others, but they are just books, written by the hand of man, not written by Me. And, it's a bit confusing as well if the truth be known, but that's not up to Me to fix. These books are wonderful, but only as guidance, for each man and woman must think for themselves." And, I believed He was right in this. "Now, come forth, we must journey a little more before you go back" and He took my hand once again.

As we followed the pathway, we soared thru the stars, listening to the music of the heavens, we became a little flower and a mighty oak, we became a babbling brook, and a mighty ocean. We flitted from flower to flower as a little honey bee, and ran across the plains as a mighty stallion. And, all too soon the pathway returned us to my home. God held my hand a moment longer, and smiled into my face. "My son, you prayed tonight for a true vision of Me.

For vision, you must only open your eyes and see what there is to see. Good night to you". And then He was gone, and I was back in my bed. A dream I thought, only a dream, that couldn't have been real. At that time, a bolt of lightning lit up my room thru the window, and thunder crashed thru the sky, and I thought I heard, from seemingly far away, "Remember, the Lord works in mysterious ways My son".

This morning as I entered the office, I went to the machine for a cup of coffee, and standing there, I spied MaryAnne. As I approached her, I could see her barely cringe, and I could see in her face that she was expecting yet another onslaught from me and my book. She seemed to cast her eyes about for a way to escape, but there was none. I walked up to her and smiled. "I think I owe you a bit of an apology" I said. "I've been a bit narrow minded of late, and I really had no right to subject you to what I did. It's not up to me to say how you find your path to your spirit, and I was wrong to think that was so," MaryAnne just stood there, not knowing what to say. "So, I just wanted to say that I'm so sorry, and I hope you will forgive my trespass. God bless you MaryAnne, and...uh.... Blessed Be?"

You know, I always thought that it was just a saying, about peoples jaws dropping to the floor, but MaryAnne did her best at that moment to prove me wrong.

Written By Eloria R. Lightfeather

Only when the last tree has died
and the last river has been poisoned
and the last fish has been caught
will we realize that we cannot eat money.
- - 19th - Century Cree Indian

Freedom of Religion means ALL Religions

Idiotic Religious Rivalries

2006-07-25T00:38:00.000-04:00

Dear Children (and believe us, that's all of you),

We consider ourselves pretty patient folks. For instance, look at the Grand Canyon. It took millions of years to get it right. And about evolution? Boy, nothing is slower than designing that whole Darwinian thing to take place, cell by cell, and gene by gene.

We've been patient through your fashions, civilizations, wars and schemes, and the countless ways you take Us for granted until you get yourselves into big trouble again and again.

We want to let you know about some of the things that are starting to tick Us off.

First of all, your religious rivalries are driving Us up a wall. Enough already! Let's get one thing straight: These are YOUR religions, not Ours.

We're the whole enchilada; We're beyond them all. Every one of your religions claims there is only one of Us (which by the way, is absolutely true). But in the very next breath, each religion claims it's Our favorite one.

And each claims it's scriptures were written personally by Us, and that all the other scriptures are man-made. Oy Vey. How do We even begin to put a stop to such complicated nonsense?

Okay, listen up now. We're your Father AND Mother, and We don't play favorites among Our children.

Also, We hate to break it to you, but We don't write. Our longhand is awful and We've always
been more of "doers" anyway. So ALL of your books, including those Bibles, were written by men and women. They were inspired, remarkable people, but they also made mistakes here and there. We made sure of that so that you would never trust a written word more than your own living heart.

You see, one human being to Us, even a bum on the street, is worth more than all the Holy Books in the world. That's just the kind of folks we are.

Our spirit is not a historical thing. It's alive right here, right now, as fresh as your next breath.

Holy books and religious rites are sacred and powerful, but not more so than the least of you. They were only meant to steer you in the right direction, not to keep you arguing with each other, and certainly not to keep you from trusting your own personal connection with Us.

Which brings Us to Our next point about your nonsense. You act like We need you and your religions to stick up for Us or "win souls" for Our sake.

Please, don't do Us any favors. We can stand quite well on our own, thank you. We don't need you to defend Us, and We don't need constant credit. We just want you to be good to each other.

And another thing, We don't get all worked up over money or politics, so stop dragging Our names into your dramas. For example, We swear to Us, that We never threatened Oral Roberts.

We never rode in any of Rajneesh's Rolls Royces. We never told Pat Robertson to run for president, and We've never, EVER had a conversation with Jim Baker, Jerry Falwell, or Jimmy Swaggart! Of course, come Judgment Day, We certainly intend to....

The thing is, We want you to stop thinking of religion as some sort of loyalty pledge to Us.

The true purpose of your religions is so that YOU can become more aware of Us, not the other way around. Believe Us, We know you already. We know what's in each of your hearts, and We love you with no strings attached.

Lighten up and enjoy Us. That's what religion is best for. What you seem to forget is how mysterious We are.

You look at the petty differences in your Scriptures and say, "Well, if THIS is the truth, then THAT can't be!" But instead of trying to figure out Our Paradoxes and Unfathomable Nature, which by the way, you NEVER will, why not open your hearts to the simple common threads in all religions.

You know what We're talking about. Love and respect everyone. Be kind, even when life is scary or confusing. Take courage and be of good cheer, for We are always with you. Learn how to be quiet, so you can hear Our still, small voice. (We don't like to shout).

Leave the world a better place by living your life with dignity and gracefulness, for you are Our Own Children. Hold back nothing from life, for the parts of you that can die surely will, and the parts that can't, won't. So don't worry, be happy. (We stole that last line from Bobby McFerrin.)

Simple stuff. Why do you keep making it so complicated? It's like you're always looking for an excuse to be upset. And We're very tired of being your main excuse. Do you think We care whether you call Us.... Yahweh, Jehovah, Allah, Diana, Wakantonka, Brahma, Cerridwen,

Father, Mother, God, Goddess or even the Void of Nirvana? Do you think We care which of Our special children you feel closest to, Jesus, Mary, Buddha, Krishna, Gerald, Mohammed or any of the others? You can call Us and Our Special Ones any name you choose, if only you would go about Our business of loving one another as We love you. How can you keep neglecting something so simple?

We're not telling you to abandon your religions. Enjoy your religions, honor them, learn from them, just as you should enjoy, honor, and learn from your parents.

But do you walk around telling everyone that your parents are better than theirs? Your religion, like your parents, may always have the most special place in your hearts, We don't mind that at all. And We don't want you to combine all the Great Traditions in One Big Mess.

Each religion is unique for a reason. Each has a unique style so that people can find the best path for themselves.

Know that Our Special Children, the ones that your religions revolve around, all live in the same place, (Our heart), and they get along perfectly, We assure you.

The clergy must stop creating a myth of sibling rivalry where there is none. Our blessed children of Earth, the world has grown too small for your pervasive religious bigotry and confusion. The whole planet is connected by air travel, satellite dishes, telephones, fax machines, rock concerts, diseases, and mutual needs and concerns.

Get with the program! If you really want to help, then commit yourselves to figuring out how to feed your hungry, clothe your naked, protect your abused, and shelter your poor. And just as importantly, make your own everyday life a shining example of kindness and good humor.

We've given you all the resources you need, if only you abandon your fear of each other and begin living, loving and laughing together.

We're not really ticked off. We just wanted to grab your attention because We hate to see you suffer. But We have given you free will to choose your own paths, and We just want you to be happy.

In Perfect Love and Perfect Trust,
Us

~ Unknown Author~

Why We Love Children

2006-07-25T00:24:00.000-04:00

This is just too cute:

My Motto

2006-07-24T21:20:00.000-04:00

Life should NOT be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in an attractive and well preserved body, but rather to skid in sideways, chocolate in one hand, wine in the other, body thoroughly used up, totally worn out and screaming "WOO HOO what a ride!"

Yes, it's even in my profile!

What Color Are You?

2006-07-22T19:05:00.000-04:00

From a test I thought was cute...

You're orange. You're strong and have the reflexes of a tiger. You're overly protective, and those skills come in handy... You're a natural person, with a taste for natural foods (I mean organic, here.). Well, that's not true. ...Just food in general! You're as quick-witted as your reflexes, and sometimes painfully logical. You love wild animals and pets. (Preferably wild animals!) You're a natural person, and a true child of Gaia. You're a stimulating, and outgoing person. You enjoy making people think, especially with your infectiously spontaneous attitude. You're a generally optomistic person, with a love for showing off all of your good traits. Although many people may see you as strung-out, or just plain weird, you're very down-to-earth and humble. You're incredibly sweet (as this color's other name!), and you care about people in general. As this color would describe, you're energetic beyond all human comprehension. You've got a nack for drawing, and you enjoy it, too. When it comes to school, you're a good listener with an even better memory. You're studious... At least when you need to be!

4652 other people got this result!
This quiz has been taken 300171 times.
8% of people had this result.

Learning Italian

2006-07-19T15:17:00.000-04:00

I’ve always wanted to learn Italian. My father’s family is from

Italy

and yet I never learned to speak the language. But, thanks to an innovative program by Dr. Pimsleur which is available on the web at Pimsleur Direct I am now learning to speak Italian. There are 30+ language choices to choose from on this site.

My mom is using the program to re-learn French. My brother is also using the French CD's since his girlfriend is fluent in the language, as well as Greek since he's going to Greece for a week this month.

I have quite a few family members that speak Italian and quite a few friends that also speak Italian. So I know that I will be able to use and practice the language with them.

This program is a fantastic and easy way to learn a 2^nd language. It takes you through the learning process without the monotony of having to learn a useless list of words that don’t help you to use them in everyday conversation.

The site is well worth taking a look at if you have any desire to learn another language. You are taught through conversational lessons, not boring lessons of words that have no meaning or use to you.

In the 1^st 30 minute lesson I learned to say:

Scusi, signore, lei capisce l'inglese? (Excuse me sir, do you understand English?)
Lei capisce l'inglese? (Do you understand English?)
Io non capisco l'inglese. (I don’t understand English.)
Lei è Americano? (Are you American.)
Sì, Americano? (Yes, American.)
Lei capisce l'italiano? (Do you understand Italian?)
Io capisco un po'. (I understand a little.)
Io capisco un po' l' italiano. (I understand Italian, a little.)

Not bad for someone who just this morning couldn’t say anything in Italian.The spellings may be off a bit, and for that I am sorry.

Now, I can honestly say; Io capisco un po' l' italiano.

THE BLACK NOWHERE

2006-07-15T19:16:00.000-04:00

It happens to the best of us no matter the intentions.

Here's the scenerio: You log on to the net/web/usenet/whatever, planning on just checking your email or some other small task. Maybe even looking up the defination of a word, or even googling a new product. And WHAM! Before you know it, you've just lost 4 or 5 hours of your day, or night, as the case may be.

Where does all this time go? How can it have passed without your knowledge? Did you fall asleep and weren't aware of it? We aren't mindless drones that are unaware of the passing of time. And yet somehow time passes and catches us unaware.

I call it "The Black Nowhere" since it's more than just a black hole of time. It has no space really because in reality, the web is an intricate linking of billions of computers in the netherworld of this "thing" we call cyberspace. It isn't one location.

How does it happen? Now there's a question I'd dearly love to be able to answer.

I've talked to my younger brother about it and he says it happens to him too. I've seen first hand how it happens to all three of my children. I have quite a few friends that seem to suffer from this same problem.

Unfortunately, there seems to be no cure for this extremely widespread phenomena.

Doubts Meme

2006-07-15T12:38:00.000-04:00

Doubts, From Witches Weekly (Originally posted: July 3rd, 2006)

Do you ever feel yourself pulling away from your spirituality? If so, what do you do to recharge yourself?

Message In A Bottle

2006-07-15T00:25:00.000-04:00

Take a look at the picture first. So what did you see?
Now proceed and read below to find an explanation
of what you really saw.
I'm sure you'll find this interesting.

Research has shown that young children cannot identify
the intimate couple because they do not have prior memory
association with such a scenerio.
What they will see are the nine dolphins.
Take another look and decide for yourself what's really there.

Current Terror Alert

2006-07-15T00:20:00.000-04:00

This was just too funny not to add here!

Perfection Meme

2006-07-13T15:07:00.000-04:00

Booking Through Thursday

What is the most pristine, perfect book in your collection? The one that looks like it's never been opened (and in fact may never have been)? Whose binding is uncracked, the corners still perfect? Reply here

Why is that book so perfect? Was it a gift? Is it a coffee table book too beautiful to use? Something you simply have no interest in and haven't bothered to open? Reply here

My own response:

E.E. Cummings Complete Poems 1904 - 1962
It's in such perfect shape because it is by one of my favorite poets.

Photographic Meme

2006-07-13T14:52:00.000-04:00

Introduce yourself to the world

20 questions, and your 20 photographic answers!

About this project

It's simple, take 20 questions and answer them by taking a photograph. Photographic interviews have been completed by many online journalists in the past, but it's time to get the biggest photographic interview started!

Tell your friends, tell strangers - it's time to get to know everyone through images instead of words.

Once you complete the questions, add a comment to this post with a link back to your answers.

q&a : the questions

one. who am i?

two. who knows me best?

three. how old am i? (or how old do i feel?)

four. the most important thing in my life is _____________

five. i always carry _____________________

six. something i always do _____________________

seven. i'm at my happiest when _____________________

eight. on a monday morning, you can find me ____________

nine. my favourite mode of transport

ten. my eyes are _____________________

eleven. my favourite material posession

twelve. to relax, i like to _____________________

thirteen. the town i live in is _____________________

fourteen. my worst habit

fifteen. my guilty pleasure

sixteen. when i look at someone, the first thing i see is _______

seventeen. i think _____________________ is beautiful

eighteen. one thing i can live without

nineteen. one thing people don't know about me

twenty. my life is ___________________

Original Meme: Sh1ft Projects

For My Mom

2006-07-12T20:49:00.000-04:00

A Mother's Love

Always were you there for me
Never seeing anything but good
You cared for me when I was hurt
And wiped the tears away
Unceasingly there to offer advice
To guide me when I went astray
The love unconditionally that you gave
Always there when I needed you
I knew that from the time that I was young
And now that I have grown
You and I have become close friends
A friendship that I cherish
I know the wonders that you feel
When watching your children grow
As I too am a Mother
And I now know the joy it brings
To watch a piece of you live on
Bringing delight to others
As they grow older
I fear how it will be
When the time has come to let them go
To become what I am now
I know the simple joys of parenthood
And the fears that we all feel
Will I be ready when my time comes
To accept they are no longer children
To let them go and live their lives
I hope and pray
That I will have been able
To give them the gift that you have given me
A love strong enough
To hold them in my heart
Yet let my children grow completely
To become adults
And pass that love to theirs.

Jeanine D.
23rd March, 1998

This was a poem I wrote for my mom quite a few years ago and recently came across it again. I thought it might be nice for her to see it here.

My Favorite Quote

2006-07-12T15:36:00.000-04:00

Fighting for peace is like screwing for virginity!

Faith

2006-07-12T15:29:00.000-04:00

Faith is our connection with the Divine, and Religion is our
attempt to impose our vision of the Divine on other people.

Reiki and Mainstream Medicine

2006-07-11T10:12:00.000-04:00

Reiki has progressively made its way into Mainstream Medicine in the last ten years. We now see Doctors and Nurses applying Reiki before surgeries, while women are in labor, and in many other situations.

Reiki has become more and more widely accepted and it has been shown that when used alongside traditional medicine, rather then choosing one or the other, it works best for the patient. Doctors whose patients have been given Reiki sessions prior to surgery find that they heal faster and with less complications.

Are we seeing a trend here? I don’t think so. Reiki isn’t a fad. Reiki is in fact a 2,000+ year old healing technique that dates back to the origins of our planet.

Traditional Reiki is taught in degrees or levels. Reiki I, II and III or the Master/Teacher level. Reiki level I was at one time taught to all children in school at around the kindergarten level, or between the ages of five and seven. Level II was taught at about the ages of ten to twelve years of age. The Teacher/Master level was taught to those in the Medical and Teaching fields.

Once you are attuned - the process of passing on to the student the ability to access Reiki energy - it is with you always. Reiki becomes a part of you down to the cellular level.

Reiki - what is it?

2006-07-11T10:05:00.000-04:00

These days, many people are seeking out alternative forms of healing, and also looking to further develop their Spirituality. Reiki does just that.

Reiki is a means to achieving for you a spiritual breakthrough, overcoming a block that may have been put on your path emotionally, physically, or spiritually, as well as so much more! Reiki is an ancient healing technique that allows us as humans, to aid in the natural healing process.

To date, Reiki is the best means to this end. As well as being one of the most loving forms of natural healing that we have available to us.

Reiki is the life-force energy that is within all of us. But the means to accessing this energy is through an attunement by a Reiki Master. In the Usui System of Natural Healing the life force is honored and used daily to help us and guide us.

There are many ways of accessing the Universal Life-force energy. Reiki is a living, breathing thing. Totally alive. Totally sentient. Reiki is a friend and an ally. If you can't trust anything else in your life, you can trust Reiki.

Most people ask me, "What will I feel during a session?" That's not always an easy answer to give someone. For each person the feelings and effects of Reiki are different. Though what you will usually feel is a soft, warm, soothing heat coming from the Reiki Practitioner's hands. At times, it may even feel quite hot, though will never be hot enough to burn. Some people experience a soothing, cool feeling. Again, this too depends on the recipient and their needs. I have even had people ask me how many were doing the session. I always smile and say, "Just me," and they ask how it was that they felt more then one set of hands during the session. This is often felt because as the hands are moved from one position to another, the feel of that energy is still where it was a few minutes earlier. And at times, this causes the recipient to feel as though either the person is in two places at once or that there is more then one person doing the session.

What you can expect to feel is going to differ from person to person, according to your own needs. Some people go into a deep type of meditative state, while some slip off into a floating type of dreamy feeling. Some people experience vivid swirls of colors and others feel a disconnected feeling from their body, almost as though they are floating above their body or sleeping on water. This one feeling is different then that dreamy feeling. Again, each person will feel something different.

When doing a session, the Reiki Practitioner is working with pure energy and that energy reacts in different ways with different people. The Reiki itself is pure energy and as the session progresses, the Practitioner is working with the recipients energy that is already within their body. This energy works to realign the chakras and energy meridians within the body to help in the healing process. So what can you expect? Along with what I have described here, which just begins to scratch the surface of what you may feel, go into the session with an open mind and allow it to happen as it will. Afterwards, you will feel as though a weight has been lifted from your shoulders, even if you didn't realize it was there to begin with.

Buddhist Wisdom (Teaching Tales)

2006-07-11T00:59:00.000-04:00

The weight of rain presses down on what is tightly covered, but what is open lets the rain pass through. If we remain open to experience and change, we find ourselves able to deal with life’s different weathers.

Buddhist Wisdom (Mind)

2006-07-11T00:47:00.000-04:00

Do things really exist as we think they do? When we say here is a table, what do we really mean? If we take away the table legs is that still a table? If we take the top off is it still a table? If we take your worries away are you still you?