Iseum of the Lady of Mystery

Mannaz

2011-03-05T16:03:00.000-08:00

Mannaz is the intellect, the rational part of our being, and the active principle. It encourages us to move beyond our history, beyond our emotional reactions, and to step into the role of the leader, setting goals and objectives and reaching for them.

Mannaz represents the need to keep oneself busy, as well as the need to be independent while reaching mutual agreements. Mannaz challenges us to analyze the facts and learn how to make things happen.

Go with the Flow

2011-01-24T06:32:00.001-08:00

The challenge of laguz is to "go with the flow", embracing contradictions and challenges, not struggling against them. Laguz symbolizes the element of Water, and embodies many of the same characteristics: emotions, dreams, rest, and the subconscious. It represents Love in all its forms, including the knowledge that "I am loved for who I am." It is also Trust and the need to "open up" to receive and to give. It is Clan also, the hunger for family and blood ties and companionship.

Laguz tells us to let go, to ride the tide wherever it takes us, no matter how strong the waves.

The Journey

2011-01-11T06:54:00.000-08:00

Raidho reminds us that it's all about the journey, not the destination. We must have a goal in mind, however, to help us choose the paths along our journey. As we journey, we create our reality through the choices we make. Raidho is the rune of the Traveler and the Seeker and gives us a sense of purpose. Raidho can represent travel, restlessness, or a spiritual journey, but it also teaches us that as we search for Wisdom, we must find the Truth within.

Trust and Share

2011-01-02T17:42:00.000-08:00

Ehwaz is the symbol of the mare, feminine intuition, strength and grace. It is the reminder to "trust your gut", explore the inner mysteries, and know a sign when you see one. The pieces fall into place, and you open unto Her gentle ways.

The challenge is to learn to open up, to share your thoughts and feelings.

In some traditions, the Mare is the shaman's steed to/within the Other World. She carries us where we need to go, but we must trust our safety to her.

Beginning again

2011-01-01T17:53:00.000-08:00

Berkano is the rune of personal transformation, of birth and rebirth, of fresh starts. It is about shedding old skins, and learning that life is a series of endings and beginnings. When labor pains come, we take a deep breath and focus. It is the bringing of a new sense of purpose, of revitalization, creativity and flexibility. We cannot learn another soul's lessons, only our own.

Message from the Great Blue Heron

2010-12-25T11:25:00.000-08:00

While driving down a main road yesterday, we spotted something surprising in an open field: a great blue heron slowly stalking lunch.

There were a couple of unusual things about this particular sighting: seeing a heron so far away from the water (although the field may have been a little marshy after the rain), and seeing one so close to so much traffic.

As we sat at the red light, we watched the heron take step after deliberate step, never taking his eyes off of his goal.

Great Blue Heron is a messenger of the spirit world. Some connect the heron with the ancient Egyptian benu bird, which represented the ba, or manifestation of the soul of Ra, the sun god (making it particularly fitting that we saw it only days after the Winter Solstice).

The message Heron brought to me yesterday was clear:

"Be patient while stalking your prey."

Prey in this case means anything I have set my sights on. What is my goal? What am I seeking?

Stalking is an action word. This is not about sitting and waiting, but about moving forward, slowly and deliberately.

I hope the heron caught his lunch, and I know that I too will catch my prey if I follow his example.

Spiraling Back to Center

2010-12-11T19:00:00.000-08:00

It has been quite a while since I've posted to this blog. The mundane world has consumed me for a while, but I am beginning my journey back to center.

The Lady of Mystery has been with me while I've walked in the shadows, and there were times that I neglected to see her there. This isn't the first time we've danced this dance; She is the mysterious one, the shadowy one, the one who waits. I dance away from the center and get distracted and lose myself, and misidentify what it is I have lost. She waits until I'm off balance and then gives me a little shove that sends me spiraling back to myself.

This year's passage from Samhain to Yule has been one of releasing for me. Releasing of that which no longer serves me, of that which is toxic to me, but has been with me for so long that I ache to part with it.

Laws of Ma'at 12

2008-08-30T10:48:00.000-07:00

I relate with understanding.

One of the biggest challenges of being human is relating with others.

Spoken language is imprecise. Words fail us when we try to speak about a topic that carries an emotional charge for us. Despite supposedly speaking the same language, words have different connotations for different individuals due to the time and place in which they were raised, their family of origin, and their own experiences.

Written language can be even more vague. Consider how often a written phrase meant to be satirical is misunderstood to be a serious commentary on the situation; relationships have been damaged by misunderstanding the intent behind the words.

We can approach these challenges best by maintaining our own awareness of the imprecision of language. We can seek to choose our words carefully, understanding that our listeners or readers may perceive our words differently than we intend. We can seek to understand the perspective of our listeners or readers in order to present our thoughts in a way that will be most clearly understood. When misunderstanding occurs, we can clarify our thoughts rather than become defensive. When we are the listener or reader, we try to put aside our own baggage to hear the intent of the speaker/author and take from it what is useful to us.

When we seek to relate to each other with the goal of understanding, we avoid many of the pitfalls that are inherent with the use of language.

When we relate with understanding, we help to create a more open community where all are free to express their experiences and reflections without anxiety and fear.

Laws of Ma'at 11

2008-05-26T10:35:00.000-07:00

I speak words of good intent.

I seek to avoid giving harm to others by my words. I provide constructive, not destructive, feedback. I allow the Wisdom of the Divine to speak through me, and frame things in a positive light.

In today's world, this is challenging. When someone cuts me off on the road, often my first reaction is a crude gesture or a curse, but I try instead to offer a blessing such as, "May you reach your destination safely, without causing harm to others." When doing magickal work to counteract psychic attacks, I choose to call on the powers of protection, rather than the those of revenge.

The Threefold Law is definitely in play here as well. If I speak words that deliberately cause harm, that harm will return to me. If I speak words that seek to create harmony and good intention, that too will return to me.

Laws of Ma'at - 10

2008-02-22T06:23:00.000-08:00

I consume only my fair share.

This is where we struggle between "need" and "want". How much do I truly need? and how much of it is want/desire? That doesn't mean that I have to deny my desires, but it does mean that I have to consider them, rather than sating them impulsively.

Our resources are stretched thin. People around the world die of starvation every day while others throw away perfectly good food by the pound. Things we purchase are overly-packaged in non-biodegradable styrofoam and plastic. In some countries, you have to purchase water from the river that runs through your village even though until 5 years ago it was held in common. In other countries, we buy bottled water by the gallon every day because tap water "doesn't taste right".

Our resources don't have to be stretched so thin. They just need to be shared more fairly.

I recycle everything I can: plastic, paper, cardboard, glass. I gratefully accept hand-me-downs that are in good condition, even though they may not be this year's - or even last year's - fashion. I try to eat my leftover food before it goes bad, so that I am not wasting the resources or the money to replace it. I have cut down significantly on gasoline usage by living closer to work, not driving through city traffic, and taking public transportation when I can. I do what I can to live more "green", with the goal of decreasing my carbon footprint. I do what I can to donate resources to those who are in need.

I ask myself, "what exactly is my share?" and try to live accordingly.

Brigit's Blessing

2008-02-04T07:23:00.000-08:00

The charm placed of Brigit
About her neat, about her kine,
About her horses, about her goats,
About her sheep, about her lambs;

Each day and night,
In heat and cold,
Each early and late,
In darkness and light;

To keep them from marsh,
To keep them from rock,
To keep them from pit,
To keep them from bank;

To keep them from eye,
To keep them from omen,
To keep them from spell,
South and north;

To keep them from venom,
East and west,
To keep them from envy
And from viles of the wicked;

To keep them from hound
And from each other's horns,
From the birds of the high moors
And from the beasts of the hills;

To keep them from wolf,
From ravaging dog,
To keep them from fox,
From "Luath" of the Fiann.
-- traditional Highland blessing, Carmina Gaedelica, Charm for Stock #368

A Magdalene Candelmas

2008-02-02T10:46:00.000-08:00

Imbolc greetings to all who have shared and seek to share the mysteries of the Magdalene!

This is an invitation to join me and assisting prestesses for a celebration of the Ninth Day of Imbolc (hence "Nonae") or as I have previously termed: "A Magdalene Candelmas", next Sunday, February 10, 2008 at the UU Church of Long Beach. Bring the inner sparks of new beginnings that you begin at this weekend's celebrations of the Maiden, of Brigid, of Candlemas, of the Maiden Sun to the cauldron of transformation that is the Magdalene's Gnostic Rite, next Sunday at 5:30PM

This celebration will also enfold remembrances of Crone suns passings last year and beyond. Many of our community have seen their Mothers go beyond the horizon, "away from the world and unto Goddess" at this time of year. I also have insisted upon this date in order to celebrate the birthday 100 years ago of my mother, Florence Catherine. Since the notice is short, I hope for RSVP at this address, or thearosa@netzero.com or call me at 323 982 9662. The Church calendar says 6P, but I plan to start at 5: 30 in order to leave most of Sunday evening free for your usual pursuits and relaxation. In keeping with our theme begun at Hallows, the Nonae bears the title: "She Wakes"!!

Snack foods and greens for the altar welcome! Men welcome!!

SHE WAKES: A Magdalene celebration of Imbolc, Bride, Candlemas

Sunday, February 10, 2008 at 5:30 PM Unitarian Universalist Church of Long Beach 5450 Atherton Ave, Long Beach.

Bright Blessings of Bride,

Catherine

Laws of Ma'at - 9

2008-01-13T08:43:00.000-08:00

I speak the truth

"In a time of universal deceit, telling the truth becomes a revolutionary act." -- George Orwell

Knowing the truth is not enough; we are called to speak the truth, even when it is difficult. Keeping silent is often the easier path, but a path of spirit is not always easy. It is often easier to tell an untruth than to speak the truth, because of the consequences of truth-telling, but Ma'at calls us to accept the consequences and grow through speaking the truth.

"There are no whole truths; all truths are half-truths. It is trying to treat them as whole truths that plays the devil". -- Alfred North Whitehead

None of us have a handle on "The Truth". We can only judge what is truth for ourselves and share it with others. We cannot force it on anyone else; trying to force "The Truth" on others has been the cause of many religious wars over the centuries. It also causes dissension among friends and family members! Often we have to combine our truths and piece them together into one puzzle that will give us a more complete Truth.

Speaking the truth means refusing to be silent in the face of abuse, whether it is yours or another's.

Speaking the truth means standing up for those who have no voice to cry out: children, elders, and all those in between who are abused, downtrodden, and taken advantage of.

Speaking the truth means going to the authorities when you have witnessed injustice or illegal activity in workplace.

Speaking the truth means that you are no longer a victim of circumstances.

Speaking the truth is a means of taking back your power and living your authentic self.

Thoughts on Truth:

"Whoever undertakes to set himself up as a judge of Truth and Knowledge is shipwrecked by the laughter of the gods." -- Albert Einstein

"We know the truth, not only by the reason, but also by the heart." -- Blaise Pascal

"The truth will set you free. But first, it will piss you off." Gloria Steinem

"Truth is not only violated by falsehood; it may be equally outraged by silence." -- Henri Frederic Amiel

Join the Spellweaving

2007-10-12T05:47:00.000-07:00

Press Release

PAGANS OPPOSE MILITARY INTERVENTION IN IRAN

October 12, 2007 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contacts: Ellen Evert Hopman saille333@mindspring.com 413 323 4494 East Coast
M. Macha NightMare herself@machanightmare.com 415 454-4411 West Coast

We are an ad hoc group of Americans who practice diverse Earth-based religions. We affirm the wisdom of peace, tolerance, and justice. These principles are consistent with the values and beliefs of our Pagan religions. We seek to exist in goodwill and fellowship with all peoples, cultures, and nations. In so doing, we express our love for the Earth and acknowledge our interconnectedness with all living things.

In the face of escalating international tensions regarding Iran, we urge the use of diplomatic actions for a peaceful resolution of differences. We reject any rush to military action, since we believe that diplomatic means will lead to a safer, more just, and more constructive solution. Therefore, we call on our political leaders to use diplomacy to create goodwill, peace, and harmony among nations, religions, and peoples.

Organizations:

Ár nDraíocht Féin (ADF)
Assembly of the Sacred Wheel
Cherry Hill Seminary
Chesapeake Pagan Community
Church of All Worlds
Coalition of Earth Religions (CERES)
Connect DC
CUUPS-Continental
The Dragon’s Cauldron
Green Egg Zine
Lady Liberty League
Order of the WhiteOak
Our Lady of the Wells Church
Pagan Educational Network
Reclaiming
Sacred Space Foundation
Sierra Madrone Grove, ADF
The Suppressed Histories Archives

Individuals:

Maureen Duffy-Boose, President, CUUPS-Continental, Salt Lake City, UT
Ellen Evert Hopman, Co-Chief, Order of the WhiteOak, Massachusetts
Nancy Machin, Pagan Educational Network, Indiana
M. Macha NightMare, P&W, San Rafael, CA
Rev. H. Byron Ballard, Coalition of Earth Religions, Asheville, NC
Jo Carson, Fairfax, CA
Max Dashu, Oakland, CA
Gus diZerega, Ph.D., Sebastopol, CA
Ivo Dominguez, Jr., Elder, Assembly of the Sacred Wheel, Delaware
Holli S. Emore, Columbia, SC
Cerridwen Fallingstar, Forest Knolls, CA
Rev. Sean W. Harbaugh, Sierra Madrone Grove, ADF, California
Caroline Kenner, Chesapeake Pagan Community & Sacred Space Foundation. Washington, DC
Rev. Robert Lee (Skip) Ellison, Archdruid, ADF, East Syracuse, NY
Sabina Magliocco, Ph.D., Northridge, CA
Rev. Patrick M. McCollum, Director, Our Lady of the Wells Church Moraga, CA
Michael McDermott, M.D., Wisconsin
Katrina Messenger, Founder, Connect DC, Washington, DC
Nava Mizrahhi, Oakland, CA
Ariel Montserrat, Editor, Green Egg Zine, Tennessee
Anne Newkirk Niven, Editor in Chief, PanGaia Magazine, California
Penny J. Novack, Elder, Step by Step Tradition, Buckland, MA
Rev. Rayna Ardren Owens, Ph.D., Miami, FL
Beth Owl’s Daughter, The Dragon’s Cauldron, Durham, NC
Lynn Pacifico, New York, NY
Lauren Raine, Tucson, AZ
Angela Roberts Reeder, Baltimore, MD
Vibra Willow, P&W, Reclaiming, California
Michael York, Ph.D., San Francisco, CA
Oberon Zell-Ravenheart, Church of All Worlds, Cotati, CA
Rev. Denise Allen, Iseum of the Lady of Mystery, Long Beach, CA

Lady Olivia's Visit

2007-09-20T07:31:00.000-07:00

The Temple of Isis/Los Angeles
and the local Iseums/Lyceums of The Fellowship of Isis
are celebrating the 2007 visit to Southern California
(and the 90th Birthday)
of
Olivia Robertson, FOI co-founder

Join us in Celebration
Saturday, September 29th 2007, 11AM
in a
Blessings of the Goddesses Ritual
at the
Unitarian Universalist Church of Long Beach
5450 Atherton, Long Beach CA 90815

Bring a small gift of Celebration to exchange
(Flower, Stone, Shell, Candle, Apple, Herbs…
use your imagination…and tie a ribbon around it!)

This event will be outdoors

Contact toila_lbws@yahoo. com for additional information

(TOI/LA events at UUCLB are co-sponsored by the Spiritual Practices Committee of UUCLB)

Fall Equinox Ritual

2007-09-07T09:47:00.000-07:00

The GODDESS TEMPLE of Orange County

“Women of The Sacred Feminine Priestessing the Earth towards Peace and Prosperity”

Saturday, September 22

“ENTER the GATES of STARLIGHTon AUTUMN EQUINOX”
(for women)

with Priestesses of The TEMPLE of ISIS, Los Angeles

LAURA JANESDAUGHTER,DENISE ALLEN, ANNITRA RAVENMOON, and GLORY VERNON

Doors open at 6:00 pm, Ritual begins 7pm-8:30pm. Dinner to follow; please bring something to share. $10 love offering

The Temple of Isis invites you to …

“Celebrate the Turning of the Dance of the Earth and Sun, where the Light and the Dark are in Balance, with the Cosmic Goddesses Aset/Isis, Nebhet/Nephthys, and Their Mother Nut/Nuit. Enter the Gates of Starlight through the Body of Nut, the Milky Way, and envision the Cosmos in Its many Mysteries, where Dark and Light are different than we might imagine. Remember! …We are Stardust Walking."

Women’s ritual and women’s spiritual authority on Earth is what The TEMPLE is all about. We have been blessed to experience ritual led by The Temple of Isis priestesses, and we know this Autumn Equinox will be another fresh and beautiful offering from these Holy Women … You are warmly invited to join your Sisters in the Goddess for this season’s ritual of Autumn Equinox, light and dark, balance and beauty. Let us enter the Gates of Starlight together as Sisters to Each Other and Daughters of the Goddess … Blessed be.

INFORMATION: 949/651-0564

No woman turned away for lack of funds. To attend free of charge, call 949/51-0564 two weeks before the ritual to have your name put on the list for free attendance. In exchange, you must arrive at the Temple at 4:30 pm the day of the ritual to clean and set up and must stay afterward one hour to clean and break down. You must make these arrangements in adavance to attend free. There are no exceptions. Physically challenged women will be given jobs within their capability.

Trust

2007-09-02T08:54:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, I had a conversation with someone who is a relative newcomer to AA and is struggling with the Second and Third Steps:

Came to believe that a Power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity.
Made a decision to turn our will and our lives over to the care of God as we understood Him.

This person has been an atheist for many years, although he has an interest in quantum physics and metaphysics. I didn't ask him what his understanding of God was. Maybe he needs to rethink that.

He said that he is struggling with gaining Faith.

I replied that often it is not Faith that we struggle with, but Trust. Trusting that not only is there a Power greater than ourselves out there, but that if we turn our lives over to that Power, our lives will improve.

I've been thinking about the concept of Trust in that Power ever since.

In my understanding, that Power is Goddess. I don't struggle with Faith; I know that She is there. I do struggle with Trust: trusting that all will be well, trusting that She will be there when I need Her, trusting enough to let go of my need to control my life even while knowing that I cannot control it, no matter how hard I try. There are too many things beyond my control. And I have struggled through the Dark Night of the Soul, when there has been no response to my prayers to Her, no sense of Her presence, for months at a time.

It is hard to Trust that which you cannot see when you cannot trust those whom you can. How do you learn trust when the adults in your life did not protect you when you were a child? when people around you have proven themselves untrustworthy? How can you trust that everything happens for a reason when you cannot determine what that reason might be?

We get stuck in fear and forget to use what little faith we may have. We get stuck in our woundedness and forget to trust in the process of healing. We get stuck in that which is known and therefore comfortable, and choose not to move forward into the Unknown where healing and wholeness can be found.

Sometimes, the first step is to ask for the willingness to Trust.

Then you have to just close your eyes and step into the dark chasm and Trust that She will teach you how to fly.

20th Anniversary of Long Beach WomanSpirit

2007-08-07T05:55:00.000-07:00

LEAFING INTO THE FUTURE

We're celebrating our 20th Anniversary! ! Celebrate with us as we honor our roots and envision the future. Be part of our future, together in the Goddess. Our day will feature afternoon workshops, a lite supper, opportunities to walk a Labyrinth path, spend time in the meditation tent, tie a wish on our "Wish Tree", and help create a Retrospective Art Offering that will be part of the altar in our evening ritual. We will also have "BunniHotep" storytelling time. This event is open to all.

Saturday, August 25 2007 1pm to 7pm
Unitarian Universalist Church
5450 Atherton, Long Beach
$15-$20 donation requested

Please preregister; email bansagart@gmail.com for a registration form.

www.toila.org
www.longbeachwomanspirit.org

Lammas

2007-08-01T10:34:00.000-07:00

"Warmed and watered by the heavens, Earth has set its harvest table before us."

If we take a moment to pause from the craziness and stress of our lives and open our senses to the world around us, even in the city we can see the seasons change. Now, halfway through the summer, the grapes are heavy on the vines. The grasses have become a golden brown, waving on the hillsides. The stores are full of the fruits of summer: melons, berries, peaches, corn, plums. The harvest is beginning to come in.

In agricultural societies, this is a time to celebrate the first fruits with bread-making and brewing of grain beverages. The communal sharing of a meal - breaking bread together - is a symbol of unity and peace. It is a time of celebrating the gifts of the earth, the fruits of hard labor,and the interdependence of all members of the community.

This is the First Harvest, dedicated to different Deities in different parts of the world throughout history:
Cotton Mother in India
Lugh and Tailltu in Ireland
Green Corn Mother in the Native American Southwest
Ceres in Rome
Dagon in Phoenicia
Demeter in Greece
Chicomecoatl in southern Mexico
Pachamama in the Andes
This harvest festival is not like Thanksgiving as we celebrate it in the United States - it is not the time to store up food; winter is still far-off. It is not the time to bake elaborate meals, for there is still much work to be done. The first fruits have been harvested, yet the fields are still full, still ripening. The fields must be watched very carefully, so that the harvest is not lost. Heat, thunderstorms and insects could destroy the harvest and jeapordize the people's survival. An abundant fall harvest (at Mabon) means that the community will survive the coming winter. And so people still tend the fields, carefully encouraging Mother Earth to continue providing an abundant harvest.

Many of us today have lived our lives in the city. US culture doesn't celebrate the summer harvest, unless you go to the county fair. It is easy for us to become disconnected from the earth and the cycles of nature.

So what can we learn from this season? What does Lammas (or Lughnassad as the Celts called it) have to do with us?

As I have learned to live in harmony with the cycles of the Earth, I have found that my life reflects the seasons, and at this time of the year, I tend instinctively to evaluate my life.
Who am I now?
What have I accomplished?
What do I still want to do with my life?
What are my hopes and dreams?
What do I fear will prevent me from attaining them?

In effect, I gather the first fruits and take them to the threshing floor, separating the grain from the chaff of my life, milling it and baking it into whatever will sustain me while I tend the other crops of my life that have yet to ripen.

What do you hope to harvest in your life this year?
What seeds did you plant?
Did you sow them on fertile soil?
Did you tend them? water them? pull the weeds that threatened them?
Did they get enough sun? or too much?

What has grown?
Was it what you thought you had planted?
Will it nourish your body and your spirit?
Is it something you are proud of?
Is there enough to share with your community?

If not - this is the harvest time, the time to sacrifice some of the crops and make room for others to grow. It is not too late to plant for the fall harvest.

If you are satisfied with what has grown, this is the time to nurture it. Make the commitment to see it to fruition, whatever weather may come. Make the commitment to share your crops, your fruits, your gifts with the members of your community. Save enough of your harvest to have seeds for next year's planting, enough to exchange for seeds that others may offer you.

Our lives follow the cycle of seasons: our lives and our dreams are born, grow into maturity, and are harvested, to return again in a new way and a new form with the next turn around the wheel. May our hopes and dreams be a bountiful harvest, laying the ground for the next crop.

c. Bansagart 2003

Solstice Faire

2007-05-29T05:52:00.000-07:00

Long Beach WomanSpirit and the Temple of Isis Los Angeles

present our 2007

SUMMER SOLSTICE FAIRE

Saturday, June 9 2007 10AM - 4PM

Unitarian Universalist Church/Long Beach

5450 Atherton Street, Long Beach, CA 90815

(just west of Bellflower Blvd, between 405 Freeway and 7th Street)

Goddess Crafts & Arts - Entertainment - Networking Table - Vendor Raffle

$5 donation requested - includes one raffle ticket

This event is co-sponsored by the Spiritual Practices Committee of UUCLB

For more information on this and other events

including the LBWS 20th Anniversary Celebration

visit our websites

www.toila.org

www.longbeachwomanspirit.org

Laws of Ma'at - 8

2007-05-15T10:32:00.000-07:00

I regard all altars as sacred

Everyone has a right to their own religious expression. As the old saying goes, "There are many paths up the mountain." An altar represents the mountain, although the details may represent a particular path.

All altars are sacred to their worshippers. I need not worship at an altar to regard it as sacred and respect it. I will not destroy or deface any altar, and I may in fact leave offerings at altars out of respect for that spiritual path. By my actions, I not only respect the sanctity of the altar; I put out my request to the Sacred World that my altars be respected and regarded as sacred by others.

I regard all altars as sacred, whether they be indoors or out in nature, whether they are currently in use or have not been used for generations.

The Thunder: Perfect Mind

2007-05-13T05:49:00.000-07:00

Daniel R. McBride translation

I was sent forth through the power
and I have come to those who contemplate me:
I was found by those who sought after me.
Look upon me, you who contemplate me
and you listeners, listen to me.
Those of you who pay heed to me, take me to yourselves.
And do not banish me from your sight,
and do not cause your voice to imprecate me,
or your hearing.
Do not be ignorant of me (in) any place or (in) any time.
Keep watch!
Do not be ignorant of me.
For I am the first and the last:
I am the one who is honoured and the one who is scorned.
I am the whore and the holy one.
I am the wife and the virgin.
I am the mother and the daughter.
I am the members of my mother.
I am the barren woman whose sons are many.
I am she of many weddings and I did not take a husband.
I am the midwife and she who does not bear.
I am the solace of my labour pains.
I am the bride and the bridegroom
and my man is the one who begot me.
I am the mother of my father,
and the sister of my man and he is my offspring.
I am the servant of he who prepared me.
I am the mistress of my offspring:
but he is the one who begot me,
prematurely, on a day of birth.
And in time he is my offspring
and my power is from him.
I am the staff of his power throughout his youth,
and he is the staff of my old age.
And that which he wishes befalls me.
I am the silence that cannot be apprehended
and the idea that is often remembered.
I am the sound of the manifold voice,
and the word of many aspects.
I am the story: (I am) my name.
Those who hate me--why do you love me
and (yet) hate those who love me?
Those who deny me, confess me,
and those who confess me deny me.
Those who speak truth of me, lie about me,
and those who lied about me, tell the truth about me.
Those who understand me, be ignorant of me.
And those who do not know me, let them know me.
For I am the Gnosis and the ignorance.
I am reticence and loquaciousness.
I am without shame, I am modest.
I am assurance and I am fear.
I am war and peace.
Observe me: I am the one who is condemned
and the (one who is) great.
Observe my poverty and my wealth.
Do not be arrogant with me when I am cast out upon the earth,
and you shall find me among those who are coming,
and do not view me on the dung-heap--
do not go, do not leave me then, abandoned,
and you shall find me in the dominions.
Nor view me abandoned among those who are condemned
and in the inferior places.
Do not mock me nor cast me down among those brutally slain.
But I, I am merciful and I am cruel.
Be vigilant!
Do not loath my obedience and my self-control do not love.
In my weakness do not forsake me,
and do not be afraid of my power.
For why are you contemptuous of my fear and curse my pride?
But I am she who exists in all fears,
and the security in insecurity.
I am she who is weak and am made whole in a voluptuous place.
I am foolish and I am wise.
Why have you hated me in your counsels--
that I shall be silent among those who are silent?
I shall appear and speak.
Why then have you Greeks hated me?
Because I am a barbarian among barbarians?
For I am the Sophia of the Greeks and the Gnosis of barbarians.
I am the judgment of the Greeks and of the barbarians.
I am the one whose image is great in Egypt
and the one who has no image among the barbarians.
I am the one who has been hated and loved in every place.
I am the one called Life whom you called Death.
I am the one called Law whom you called Anarchy.
I am the one whom you have pursued and
I am the one whom you have grasped.
I am the one whom you have scattered and you have collected together.
I am the one before whom you have been ashamed,
and you have been shameless to me.
I am she who does not keep festival, and
I am she whose festivals are many.
I, I am godless, and
I am the one whose God is many.

I am the one whom you have reflected upon,
and you have scorned me.
I am unlearned, yet they learn from me.
I am the one whom you have despised and you reflect upon me.
I am the one whom you have hidden from,
and you appear to me.
But whenever you hide yourselves, I myself shall appear.
For whenever you [appear], I myself [shall be hidden] to you.
Those who have [...] by means of it
[...] in senselessness [...]
Take me [...] understanding through suffering,
and bear me to yourselves through understanding and suffering.
And bear me to yourselves from ugly places which are in ruin
and seize from those even in disgrace.
Out of shame accept me unto yourselves shamelessly;
and out of shamelessness and shame,
indict the parts of my being in yourselves,
and come into myself, those who (thus) know me,
and those who know the parts of my being,
and establish the great with the small first creatures.
Come to childhood and do not abhor it
because it is small and it is little.
And do not turn away greatnesses in some portions from the
smallnesses,
for the smallnesses are known from the greatnesses.
Why do you curse me and esteem me?
You have wounded and you have had pity.
Do not separate me from the first ones you have known
and do not cast anyone out, nor reject anyone
[...] [nor] return without knowing it.
[...] that which is mine.
It is I who knows the first ones and their descendants know me.

But I am the Nous of the [...]
and the repose of [...]
I am the Gnosis of my quest,
and the discovery of those who seek after me,
and the command of those who ask of me
and the power of the powers in my Gnosis with the angels,
they who have been sent by my word
and the gods in their aeons by my design,
and the spirit of each man existing with me,
and of women existing within me.
I am the one who is honoured and who is praised,
and who is despised scornfully.
I am peace and war comes to be because of me.
And I am a foreigner and a citizen.
I am the substance and the one who has no substance.
Those who exist together in my being are ignorant of me;
and those who exist in my substance are the ones who know me.
Those who have drawn near to me became ignorant of me,
and those far beyond me are the ones who have known me.
On the day I draw near to [you (pl)]; [you] are far beyond [me,
and] on the day when I [am far beyond] you [I draw near] to you.
[I am] [...] within.
[I am] [...] the inborn qualities.
[I am] the foundation of the spirits.
[I am] that which is asked for by the souls.
I am restraint and unrestraint.
I am in harmony with the dissolution.
I am the abiding and I am the dissolution.
I am the one below, and they come up to me.
I am the judgment and the forgiveness.
I, I am sinless and the root of sin comes from within me.
I am lust in (outward) appearance and abstinence exists within me.
I am the utterance attainable to everyone
and the speech which cannot be grasped.
I am a mute who does not speak,
and great is my multitude of words.
Hear me in weakness, and be instructed by me in strength.
I am she who cries out and I am cast forth upon the face of the earth.
It is I who prepares the bread and my mind inside.
I am the Gnosis of my name.
I am the one who cries out, and it is I who listens.
I appear and walk in a [...]
seal of my [...][...][. ..]
I am [...] the defense.
I am the one who is called "the Truth," and "Iniquity" [...]
You esteem me and you whisper against me.
Those who are victorious, judge them before they pass judgement upon
you,
for discernment and partiality exists in you.
If you are condemned in this way, who shall forgive you?
Or, if you are forgiven through this, who shall be able to control
you?
For what is within you is that which is outside you,
and the one who fashioned you on the outside
(also) shaped the inside of you,
and that which you see on the exterior
you see on the interior: it is revealed and is your garment.
Hear me you auditors,
and learn from my words those who know me.
I am the hearing that is attainable to everything,
I am the speech which cannot be grasped.
I am the name of the sound and the sound of the name.
I am the sign of the letter
and the manifestation of the division.

And I (lines 1-3 missing) [...] the light
[...] and [...] auditors [...] to you [...]
[...] the great power and the [...] shall not move the name
[...] to the one who created me.
I, however, shall speak his name.
Look then at his words and all the writings which have been completed.
Give heed then you auditors and for your part, the angels,
and those who have been sent,
and the spirits who have arisen from the dead...
that I am the one who exists alone,
and I do not have anyone to judge me.
For many are the delightful forms which exist in numerous sins,
and libertinisms, and condemned passions,
and transitory pleasures which are grasped until they become sober,
and they ascend to their resting-place
and they shall find me in that place,
and they shall live,
and they shall not die again.

Beltane

2007-05-01T14:54:00.000-07:00

Beltane sits opposite Samhain on the Wheel of the Year, and in many respects, is its opposite. Where Samhain ushers in the dark season - time for reflection and inner work - Beltane is a harbinger of summer and a time for celebration of the Life Force, of youth and sexuality and sensuality and boundless energy.

Traditionally, Beltane was a time of purification, when hearth fires were extinguished and bonfires were lit on hilltops. The community gathered to celebrate the return of the growing season and the return of the animals to their pasture lands for the summer. Festivities included dancing around a May Pole, weaving patterns of color and energy for fertility and physical wellbeing. Couples would jump the Beltane fire and commit to a year-and-a-day together, a sort of "trial" marriage. When the community festivities were over, a piece of the Beltane fire would be taken home to relight the hearth.

Although Beltane is typically a celebration of action, there are still some possibilities for reflection. Here are some thoughts to consider during this season:

Where do you get your energy? How do you recharge?
What do you have to celebrate?
Where do you need to put your energy at this time?
Are you comfortable with your sexuality? sensuality?
What are you willing to commit to for the next year-and-a-day?

Happy Beltane!!!!

Bunni HoTep

2007-04-22T08:43:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, the Temple of Isis/Los Angeles held its annual spring ritual in honor of BunniHoTep. It was a ritual of laughter and tears, of story-telling and blowing bubbles, of healing and feasting.

BunniHoTep is a recently rediscovered Egyptian deity. She is the Finder of Lost Objects and a Goddess of Joy. She began revealing Herself to the priestesses of TOI/LA about four years ago. Lady Olivia signed the charter for the Iseum of BunniHoTep not long afterwards. Professor Lapin is the keeper of the scrolls of BunniHoTep, and Her most frequent channel. Her stories can be found on her LJ blog: Iseum of BunniHoTep.

Many Blessings!!!!

2007-04-13T11:01:00.000-07:00

Happy 90th Birthday to Lady Olivia, cofounder of the Fellowship of Isis!

Friday the 13th

2007-04-13T08:43:00.000-07:00

Superstitions abound in European-based cultures about bad luck happening on Friday the 13th. Some people who suffer from paraskavedekatriaphobia will even refuse to get out of bed, for fear of incurring bad luck.

There are many theories about where the Friday the 13th myth began, but most people attribute it to the simultaneous arrests of the Knights Templar in France on October 13, 1307. However, the superstitions about the day seem to have really begun in the early 1900s.

In pagan traditions, 13 is not an unlucky number. It is the traditional number of members of a coven, and the number of lunar months in a solar year.

Have wonderful Friday the 13th!!!

Artist on the Beach

2007-03-21T15:37:00.000-07:00

Gaea
Creator
Earth Mother
Master Potter

your moist fingers
gently mold the clay
mixing earth and water
into a new creation

unceasingly
patiently
you lovingly caress
the clay
shaping it
changing it
to suit your needs
careful
to not let it dry out
repairing
any flaws that appear

keep me firmly on your
Potter's Wheel
spinning slowly
becoming
your Heart's desire
always in contact
with your firm
moist
loving
Hands
feeling your caress
knowing you are

Master Potter
Earth Mother
Creator
Gaea

c. 1993 Bansagart

Happy Ostara

2007-03-21T09:27:00.000-07:00

All around us, the Earth sings of Spring. The birth waters have broken open and the rainy season is upon us. Early flowers are blooming, and the animals are bringing forth their young. The Sun has reached the day of balance, with equal hours of light and dark. We celebrate resurrection and rebirth in all its manifestations.

In many traditions, the stories of this time revolve around eggs and their hatching. It is said that Hathor, in the form of the Nile goose, laid a golden egg that was the sun. In Hawai'i it is said the the Big Island hatched from the egg of a giant water bird. The Chimu of Peru clain they are descended from the original egg, the moon. In Hindu mythology, Prappati, the creator, hatched from the great golden egg of eternity. It is also said that Brahma burst forth from a golden egg.

The egg is a symbol of birth, fertility and eternity. It has long been a symbol of Life. The egg holds the complete potential of the creative energy of life. The giving, receiving and decorating of eggs is a symbol in many modern religious traditions: in Christianity, it is the Easter Egg; in Judaism, eggs are a symbol of Esther and Purim; eggs have also long been a symbol of spring in pagan traditions.

In natural situtations, hens lay eggs only from the spring equinox to the autumn equinox; egg-laying is controlled by the amount of light stimulating the retina of the eye. (The amount of light also controls the blooming of most flowers.) At the exact moment of the Vernal Equinox, an egg will stand and balance on its end, an icon of equlibrium.

It is believed that Ostara, the festival of the Vernal Equinox, was first celebrated about 12,000 years ago. In Teuton and Anglo-Saxon tradtions, the goddess of the dawn was named Eostre. She was also called the Queen of Heaven, titles attributed to Andraste, Astarte, Ishtar, Queen Esther and Isis, all of whose names appear to have similar origins.

With the balance of day and night at Ostara, we leave the winter behind. We come out of our hibernation, our months of reflection and inner work, and begin to reach for balance in our lives: the balance of reflection and action, of thought and will. In our gardens and in our lives, we till and turn the soil and plant the seeds of our desires. As the days lengthen, our seeds will sprout and grow and lead us to the harvest at summer's peak.

Where are you reaching for balance in your life?
How are you moving toward greater light?
What seeds are you planting at this time?

c. 2007 Bansagart

The Temple at Denderah

2007-03-13T11:00:00.000-07:00

Denderah is about 50 km north of Luxor, on the west bank of the Nile River. The extant Temple of Hathor, built around 54 BCE, still stands in fairly good condition. It was built on the site of several previous temples, and was added to in the first century CE. Inside the hipostyle temple were shrines dedicated to Isis, Sokar, Hathor's sistrum, the gods of Lower Egypt, and Re, among others.

According to Anu tradition, Denderah was the birthplace of Isis and Osiris. There are several wall carvings depicting Isis throughout the Temple, including the one pictured here, which depicts her with the solar disk and horns which are also associated with Hathor.

Who is Kwan Yin?

2007-03-08T14:09:00.000-08:00

Kwan Yin is revered in Buddhism as the Bodhisattva of Compassion. She is also known by the names Guanyin, QuanYin and Kannon (the Japanese company Canon derived its name from this). A bodhisattva is one who was once human and achieved enlightenment, but chose to remain close to the human condition in order to provide guidance, rather than enter into Nirvana as a buddha. Kwan Yin is said to have been a student of Amitabha Buddha.

Kwan Yin is also known as the Goddess of Mercy and Compassion. She is sometimes seen as a Mother Goddess and a patron of sailors and fishermen. She is known as a protector of women and children, and one to approach when you desire children. She is a source of unconditional love, and a savior who frees humans from karmic woes. Some call her the Buddhist Madonna, and compare her role to that of Mary in the Christian tradition. Among some esoteric and new age groups, she is referred to as one of the Ascended Masters.

In some depictions, she is shown with many arms, reflecting her desire to reach out to as many as possible. Sometimes she is seated on a white lotus, or holds one in her hand. She is also often depicted holding a small vase, sometimes held upright and sometimes turned on its side, pouring out the "Waters of Life", a symbol of Her mercy and compassion.

Kwan Yin Day

2007-03-07T05:58:00.000-08:00

Today is Kwan Yin Day, honoring each soul's ability to become a buddha.

For Brighid

2007-02-25T08:03:00.000-08:00

Holy Water, Sacred Flame
Brigid, we invoke your name
Bless my head, my hands, my heart
Source of healing, song and art

Book Review: Ishmael

2007-02-18T08:44:00.000-08:00

Ishmael: An Adventure of the Mind and Spirit by Daniel Quinn. Published by Bantam Books, 1992. ISBN: 0-553-37540-7.

This book came to me by way of a house guest who left it behind. I finally decided to pick it up and read it. I am so glad I did! The story is written in the first person and, like The Celestine Prophecy, we never learn the main character's name or gender. The main character sees an ad in a paper that says: "Teacher seeks pupil. Must have an earnest desire to save the world. Apply in person." Pessimistic yet intrigued, the character shows up at the address in the ad and begins a journey toward understanding "how things came to be this way". The teacher leads the pupil through discussions of human history, Mother Culture, and a bit of theology, until the pupil learns the answer to "how things came to be this way" and is able to envision an alternative future for planet Earth.

With the current conversations around Global Warming, the destruction of the rainforests and war, this book is a great resource for finding a language that most people can relate to. It is a serious discussion of the state of the world that includes humor and a path to understanding "how things came to be this way." It is an easy and quick read. I highly recommend it!

Brighid Speaks

2007-02-02T09:06:00.000-08:00

There is a dark place deep within you
Search, and you will know it there
Do not fear the darkness
For I am the darkness

It is in the darkness that the seed sprouts
It is in the darkness that the chick grows
It is the darkness that holds the greatest potential

There are things I can only teach you in that place of internal winter
Where all things are possible and all visions true
One of these Truths is this: the darknes gives birth to light

For I am the spark of the Universe
The fire of Truth that burns in your heart
The fire of insight and passion that burns in your belly
It is my Fire that sings in the Blood of the Poets
Those who know the darkness, embrace it,
And know that Spring always comes

My gift of Poetry is Truth
Embrace the darkness within you
Find what longs to be birthed
Sing the fire into being
And feel the words of power burn within you
I am Brighid.
I am Poetry.

c. Bansagart 2000

Ritual for Imbolc

2007-02-01T14:14:00.000-08:00

Review the holiday of Imbolc.

Light a candle and dedicate it to Brighid using either the Gaelic words or their English translation below:

Brighid bean oirdheach
Lasrach grad
Fetaim lasrach soillse
thoir coire sinne ris a bheatha
mhaireanach.

Brighid, excellent lady,
Sudden Flame,
May the fiery bright sun
Take us to
The lasting reign.

When we respect the earth, the land itself becomes a magic cauldron, full of abundance. The Earth is the Great Mother of all life. The health of the Earth is reflected in the health of our own physical bodies as well.

Today we focus our energies on sending healing to the Earth and honoring her gifts to us: water, fire, soil, wind, food, shelter.

Send healing energy to the Earth. As you are moved, feel free to voice your thanks to the Earth for her gifts, and any wishes you have for the healing of the earth.

Honor the earth in a phsyical way. You can work with clay to create a symbol of the earth for your altar, dig in your garden, or wiggle your toes in the sand at the shore.

A Celtic Blessing:
Deep peace of the running wave to you
Deep peace ofthe flowing air to you
Deep peace of the quiet earth to you
Deep peace of the shining stars to you
Deep peace of the gentle night to you
Moon and stars pour the healing light on you
Deep peace to you

c. Bansagart 2004

Winter Solstice - Part 2

2006-12-24T10:41:00.000-08:00

We gather together in homes and churches and synagogues, celebrating the light that will return to us. This is the time of year for sharing with the community the hope and faith that the light always returns.

Take a few moments and think about your life at this time.
Where is the darkness? Have you embraced it?
Where does this darkness need to be transformed?
Where do you need to see the light at the end of the tunnel, the rebirth of the sun/son?
What needs to be reborn in you, in your life?
What hope and promise of enlightenment do you crave?

As you are ready, light a candle to represent what you wish to give birth to during this season. If you wish, you can speak your wish out loud; giving voice to our wishes puts our intention out to the universe. You may do this for as many wishes as you would like.

This is the time of the Solstice, the longest night of the year. Now darkness triumphs, and yet gives way and changes into light. The breath of nature is suspended: all waits for the return of the sun/son. We watch for the coming of dawn, the return of hope and the promise of summer. This is the stillness behind motion, when time itself stops; the center which is also the circumference of all. Knowing that without darkness, there is no light, we breathe in the stillness, the great knowledge that all things are possible.

Winter Solstice - part 1

2006-12-21T13:41:00.000-08:00

We have all noticed the days growing shorter and the nights longer as winter approaches. We complain when we remember how much we did outside last summer when the sun was up until 8:30 or 9:00 pm - and now it is gone at 5! The mornings, too, are dark, and we drive to work with our headlights on.

As we have approached the Winter Solstice, the days have gotten shorter and the nights much longer. If we pay attention to the world around us, we see that the summer flowers are gone, the hillsides are bare, and even here in Southern California, many trees have dropped their leaves. With less daylight hours, animals scurry to get everything done in a shorter amount of time, and the trees and perennial flowers are going into dormancy.

At the Winter Solstice, the sun reaches its southernmost point, rising the latest and setting the earliest of any time of the year. In the ongoing cycles of light and dark, darkness wins out. The sun seems to stand still for several days, rising at the same time and same place; but then, it begins to rise earlier and set later as the cycles continue in their spiral dance.

Our inner journey reflects the cycles of Nature around us. This is the time for shortening our days, scurrying to get things done during the shorter days. Some of us struggle with the weight of the darkness, not sure whether we will see the light again. Others of us enjoy this season the most: cleaning, shopping, cooking, and visiting with loved ones. Most of us seem to swing back and forth between the lightness and the darkness. This is the time to hold in our minds the promise of spring and rebirth. The darkness is strongest just before the dawn. There is always a light at the end of the tunnel.

This is nothing new in the history of humanity. Our ancestors struggled with the same issues, even without shopping malls. As the days grew shorter and the nights longer, as the sun seemed to stand still on the horizon, there must have been the fear that perhaps the days would grow shorter and shorter until there was only night. Perhaps the sun would not come back and they would never see the light again. We know that the sun has always returned, and yet, we can imagine what would happen if it didn't. We can imagine what our ancient ancestors must have thought, without electricity to light their evenings. What if it was always this dark and cold? How could they exist like this forever?

Around the world, the darkness and the fear that the winter brought gave birth to festivals and rituals that hailed the gradual lengthening of days after the winter solstice. All of these celebrations involved the lighting of fires to symbolically rekindle the sun, the triumph of the light and life over darkness and death. The entire community would gather, celebrating together, telling stories and feasting.

From what we know, the first Winter Solstice holidays were celebrated in Egypt over 4000 years ago. Mesut-re celebrated the birth of the Sun God Ra, who was later merged with Horus, the child of Isis. The Babylonians took up the celebration, holding the festival of Zagmuk in honor of the creator/sun god Marduk. by the time the holiday spread to Rome, it was a chance to honor Jupiter's defeat of Saturn in the festival of Saturnalia as the new year defeated the old. The Jewish people celebrate Hannakuh, the Festival of Lights, at this time, lighting the 8-tapered menorah in honor of religious freedom and the ability to hold the darkness at bay.

In Northern Europe, Yule was celebrated as the rebirth of the sun. The word "Yule" comes from the Norse word meaning "wheel", the Wheel of the Year. In ancient days, a druid would cut the sacred mistletoe from the mighty oak; evergreen trees were brought into the home to remind everyone of growth and life. Candles were lit to simulate the brightness of mid-day. A Yule Log was burned for 12 days, helping the Mother Goddess give birth to the sun-god, symbolizing the warmth and continuing light of the sun. By the time Christianity developed, winter solstice holidays were well-entrenched in peoples' minds. It made perfect sense to include the celebration of Jesus' birth with the birth of all other sun gods and sons of god. One of the newest Festivals of Light is Kwanzaa, an African-American celebration developed in the 1960s to honor unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity and faith.

What did your culture or family call this holiday? What do you know about it?

How have you celebrated this season?

c. Bansagart 2003.

Laws of Ma'at - 7

2006-12-20T05:56:00.000-08:00

I live in truth

What is truth? Is truth the same for everyone? or different?

If you look at this issue through the lens of Lawrence Kohlberg's Stages of Moral Development, it seems that persons who have reached the post-conventional level (stages 5 and 6) of moral development would hold views similar to those of Moral Relativism, that justice is the measure by which all things must be viewed. Most people however, never move beyond the conventional level (stages 3 and 4), believing that rules and social conventions must be followed, that maintaining a functioning society is the basic measure. If people are at different levels in their understanding of morality, it stands to reason that the truth may be perceived differently as well.

So how can I live in truth?

When Ma'at judges my heart, She will weigh it against a feather. I will not be compared to any other person. That truth is perceived differently by others is not the issue. The only issue is "how have my actions and inactions weighed on my heart?"

I live in truth by being honest with myself about my abilities, limitations and motivations.
I live in truth by being honest in my relationships with others.
I live in truth by exposing and confronting untruths.
I determine what is truth for me, based on my interactions with the Divine, my understanding of how the world works, and my ongoing self-education.
I don't allow myself to be force-fed someone else's truth without question, regardless of how long they've had a tv or radio show, how many members are in their church, or how much money they have.

Sometimes living in truth can cause a dilemma. Sometimes we are faced with a situation where telling a lie might be the right thing to do. When faced with this dilemma, we must ask ourselves, "Whom does this lie benefit?" and "Whom does this lie harm?" We must make an honest evaluation of the situation, make a decision, and take responsibility for the outcome.

I choose to live in truth.

Ritual Follow-up

2006-12-17T08:51:00.000-08:00

We celebrated our Winter Solstice ritual last night. Our theme was "Where will your wings take you?" as we move into the Dreamtime of winter, dreaming what we will birth in the spring. Elfkat and Mary led us in caroling before we began. Joanne was her amazing self as the Mistress of Ceremonies and led us in meditation. I spoke for the Wings of Justice, Callista spoke for the Wings of Heart, Catherine spoke for the Wings of Truth, Laura spoke for the Wings of Healing, and Anniitra spoke for the Wings of the Dark. Callista crowned our new Lucinas, Nicole and Ella. I'm hoping Elfkat will post some pictures in the next couple of days.

The ritual went beautifully, the feasting afterwards was wonderful. And we raised $200 for Heifer International.

Unfortunately, while we were in ritual in the hall, someone entered the kitchen and stole a couple of wallets, and some cash from another purse. We spent the 2 1/2 hours after ritual making sure no other wallets were taken, checking trash cans and the grounds with flashlights, and waiting for the police to show up and take a report.

Obviously, someone hadn't yet learned a cardinal rule:
Don't mess with witches!

As our participants heard what had happened, many of them were muttering spells to recover the lost wallets, to make the thief trip up soon and be caught, for karma to catch up with them, and a few choice other spells that I won't mention here. Let's just say they were a bit graphic. Was it really worth all that for less than $50 cash? You see, we don't need to see Justice be done to know that Justice is done. We've got the hardball players on our side: Ma'at, Kali, Justitia, Freyja, Themis, Dike, Astraea and Athena to name a few.

Winter Solstice Ritual

2006-12-10T08:41:00.000-08:00

Long Beach WomanSpirit & Temple of Isis/Los Angeles present
our 2006
Winter Solstice Ritual

Where Will Your Wings Take You?

Saturday, December 16th
Unitarian Universalist Church
5450 Atherton St • Long Beach CA
Doors open at 7 pm - Ritual begins as 7:30 pm
$10-$15 donation requested*

Come Celebrate Winter Solstice with us
and Give Flight to Your Dreams
For your flight please bring
• a candle in a holder • potluck dish to share
• an unwrapped gift
for a child or resident of the LB Woman’s Shelter
* all monies collected will be donated to a global charity
This event is co-sponsored by the Spiritual Practices Committee
of the Unitarian Universalist Church of Long Beach

Winter Solstice Faire

2006-11-27T18:40:00.000-08:00

Join Long Beach WomanSpirit and the Temple of Isis/Los Angeles for the
19th annual Winter Solstice Faire.

Saturday 2 December 2006
10:00AM - 4:00PM
Donation: $5 (includes 1 raffle ticket)
Many Unique, Goddess Themed Items
to entice your senses and celebrate your spirit
Plus All Day Entertainment,
Food Vendors, Networking Table,
and our Hourly Raffle of Vendor Items

Entertainment Schedule
Opening Circle 10:00AM
Ella Reed 10:30AM
Kahena and
Banaat al-Qamar 11:00AM
Lisa Thiel 11:45AM
Diana Wysinger
and Friends 12:30PM
Miranda Rondeau 1:15PM
Miri Hunter Haruach 2:00PM
The Nubian Divas 2:45PM
Closing Dance 3:15PM

Come and play and spend the day in the Cosmic Energy of the Goddess!
The Faire is held at Unitarian Universalist Church of Long Beach
5450 Atherton, Long Beach
(just west of Bellflower Blvd, between 405 Freeway and 7th Street)

Event is sponsored by Temple of Isis/Los Angeles
and co-sponsored by the Spiritual Practices Committee of UUCLB

Click on the link below for more details!
http://www.longbeachwomanspirit.org/

Who Is Isis?

2006-11-22T09:57:00.000-08:00

Isis is actually the Greek name for the Egyptian Goddess Au-set, but since it is the most widely used version of Her name, I will use it here as well.

Isis, She of Ten Thousand Names, was said to be the daughter of Nut and Geb, one of 5 gods born to them during the epagomenal days, the 5 "days out of time" that were the end of the old year and the beginning of the new. The 5 deities born during these epagomenal days are commonly referred to as Osiris, Set, Horus (the Elder), Isis and Nephthys. Isis was paired with Osiris, her brother-husband, and Nephthys was often paired with Set.

There are many stories of Isis as Lady of the Words of Power who bested Ra (the Sun god), as Great Mother of Horus (the Younger), as the grieving and desperate wife of the dismembered Osiris. The stories are long, and perhaps a retelling will appear on these pages soon.

The worship of Isis began several thousand years ago in Khemet, or ancient Egypt. The one most often associated with Isis is the Temple of Philae, near present-day Aswan. The Isian religion eventually spread from Egypt to Greece and the entire Roman Empire. Archaeologists have found temples of found as far away as England. Modern worship of Isis can be seen in groups such as the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn, the Fellowhsip of Isis and the Kemetic Orthodox Church. If you are interested in learning more about Isis, either in ancient Egypt or today, you might want to explore these books:

Isis Magic by M. Isidora Forrest
Offerings to Isis by M. Isidora Forrest
Dreams of Isis by Normandi Ellis
Awakening Osiris: The Egyptian Book of the Dead by Normandi Ellis
Feasts of Light by Normandi Ellis
The Mysteries of Isis by deTraci Regula
Circle of Isis by Ellen Cannon Reed

Blessed Samhain

2006-10-31T18:15:00.000-08:00

This is the time of year when the final harvest has come in and the fields are brown and dry. Unfortunately, it is also the time for us in Southern California to experience the Santa Ana winds and the late October firestorms that rage every year. There is a connection: we have harvested everything we can for this year’s growing season and we must let go of what is left behind. If nothing died, there would be no room on the earth for new things to be born. There would be no change or growth. We have learned that some plants require fire in order to break open the seeds, which will provide new green growth in the spring. For many cultures around the world, this was a time of bonfires to celebrate endings and beginnings; perhaps Nature is providing for us what we have given up as “superstitious”.

Our inner journey reflects the process of Nature around us. It is the time of reviewing what we have harvested in our lives during the past year, of giving gratitude, and of releasing whatever is in our lives that is no longer needed, or is preventing us from new growth. It is a time to store up whatever is needed to get us through the dark winter months ahead.

This is the time when many cultures had celebrations to honor the dead, the ancestors. In Japan, the festival is Obon; in Vietnam it is Wandering Souls’ Day. Among the Dahomey of South Africa, it is the Festival of Setting the Table for the ancestors. The people of Laguna Pueblo decorated the graves of their loved ones at this time, as did the Aztecs. This was the beginning of what we now know as El Dia de los Muertos. In old Britain, this was the festival of Samhain (Sow-en), a celebration of the final harvest, a time to honor all those who had died, and New Year’s Day. The Christian church adapted this festival and it became All Saint’s Day and All Soul’s Day, a time to honor the saints and holy ones who have gone before, and to pray for all those who have died who might be in purgatory.

Questions for Reflection:
- What did your culture call this holiday? What do you know about it?
- How have you celebrated this season?
- How does an awareness of your ancestors help you define who you are today?
- Who in your family of origin has had the most spiritual impact on your life?
- As an ancestor to future generations, physical and/or spiritual, what is the most important thing you would like them to inherit from you?

Ritual for Honoring our Beloved Dead

Rather than fearing our beloved dead, we choose to honor their memory. Our beloved dead can be of any species; we acknowledge that the death of an animal companion is sometimes the most difficult.

Light a candle for someone whose memory you wish to honor today. Speak their name, and reflect on the gifts they have given you. Light a candle for as many beloved dead as you would like.

Speak to the spirits of the departed, saying:

May the air carry your spirits gently. May the fire release your souls. May the water wash you clean of pain and sorrow and suffering. May the earth receive you. **

Be free, be strong, be proud of who you have been, know that you are mourned and missed, that no one can replace you, that you have loved and are beloved. Move beyond form, flowing like water, feeding on sunlight and moonlight, radiant as the stars in the night sky. Pass the gates; enter the dark without fear, returning to the womb of life to steep in the cauldron of rebirth. Rest, heal, grow young again. Be blessed. **

In the memory of all whose names have been spoken, and for others whose living and dying has been a gift to us, we are grateful. Death is a part of life, just as Birth is a part of life. There are no endings, only beginnings, in this great Circle of Life. We are not isolated individuals, but invisibly connected to all of life.

** Prayers adapted from The Pagan Book of Living and Dying, by Starhawk.

c. Bansagart 2003

"Sounds of the Divine"

2006-10-23T05:34:00.000-07:00

Sunday, Nov. 12, 2006 10:30-11:30am
Presented by Glory Vernon and Denise Allen

Connection to Spirit manifests in many forms. We use our voices to make sound...to whisper, speak and sing our intent to Higher Power. Our voices are not our only instruments. Sound takes on many forms from the gentle tones of temple bowls to the heart rhythms of the drum. Join us as we raise vibrations and create a rhythmic, healing experience.

Unitarian Universalist Church of Long Beach
A Welcoming Congregation

Glory and Denise are ordained priestesses of the Temple and Fellowship of Isis.

Magdalen Hallowmas

2006-10-14T10:31:00.000-07:00

Greetins lovers of the Magdalen, her Mysteries and Rites:

Please join us on November 5 at 5PM for the Magdalen Hollowmas
Where: Wylder Hall of UUCLB
Bring: Hearts, hands, and light pre-dinner foods
Who is Waiting? The Ancient One, Shamana
"She Waits" the powerful meditation text of Rosamonde Miller
with the body artistry of Anniitra Ravenmoon and the sound artistry
of Miranda Rondeau.
"She Waits" illumined by the Full Moon of Samhain-tide
reaching to the dark and the depths..."She Waits" in the cave of Deep
Time, in the deepest recesses of soul and World Soul
She waits for our hearts, our extension of love, our vision.
She waits for us.
Questions and RSVP to Catherine at thearosa@adelphia.net or
call 323.982.9662.
Please pass the word to circles and lists and tribes. She waits for
all of us; men are welcome.
Blessing and Blessed Be!!

In Between

2006-09-23T10:11:00.000-07:00

The waves lap quietly upon the rocky shore
Swirling among the carpet of mussel
Not often exposed at this depth
A pelican swoops before me
Gulls and fog horns call in the distance
Passing craft send the waves more hurriedly to my feet
It is quiet here
Mostly
It is that in-between-time
Summer but a memory
Winter still offshore
but growing closer with each passing day
It is the low Moon Tide
Somewhere between summer’s bustling heat
and winter’s biting chill
It is a time of preparation for the coming darkness
It is the time to collect and recollect seasons past and future
It is time to gather the fruits of our harvest
To store them until there is time and need to sort them
and chew them and refashion them for new uses
Soon it will be time to think and plan and do
the quiet work that prepares us for fresh new things
But that time is not yet here
Today we sit in-between
We act and gather and collect
To prepare for the resting time to come

c. 1995 Bansagart

Deep Time Ritual

2006-09-06T05:57:00.000-07:00

The Temple of Isis/Los Angeles
and the local Iseums/Lyceums of
The Fellowship of Isis
are celebrating the 2006 visit to Southern California of
Olivia Robertson, FOI co-founder
Join us in a
Dance to the Music of Deep Time
on Saturday, September 30th, 11AM
at the
Unitarian Universalist Church of Long Beach
5450 Atherton, Long Beach 90815

DEEP TIME
The Past and the Future
Spiral around the Present
To go into the Future or the Past,
You must enter through the Present
and be totally present.
There is a fourth Time, Deep Time
which is only accessible
through being totally present
by bringing your heart and mind
back together

This event is co-sponsored by the Spiritual Practices Committe of UUCLB

Who is Ma'at?

2006-09-04T09:23:00.000-07:00

Ma'at is a Goddess of ancient Egypt. She represents Truth, Justice, Balance and Order. More than a deity, Ma'at was the personification of Universal Order, underlying everything else. In hieroglyphs, She is represented by an ostrich feather, also known as the Shu feather. It is said that when a person died and entered duat, the underworld, their ka was weighed on a scale opposite the feather. If their ka weighed more than the feather, then the person had violated the Laws of Ma'at, had obstructed Balance, Order, Justice and Truth in the universe, and they were devoured by Ammit, dying forever. If their ka weighed equal to the ostrich feather, then their ka was mayet, in harmony with Ma'at, and was allowed to enter the afterlife.

Much of what we know of the ancient code of mayet is found in the "Negative Confessions", in Chapter 125 of the Egyptian Book of the Dead. They are called the "Negative Confessions" because in them, the petitioner lists the things they have not done in their lives. The version of the Laws of Ma'at being explored in this blog are based on those Negative Confessions, but rewritten for people of the 20th and 21st centuries.

Laws of Ma'at - 6

2006-08-26T09:00:00.000-07:00

I give offerings that are genuine and generous.

When I approach the altar of the Goddess, I bring offerings from my heart, that show my devotion to Her. They might be flowers, incense, artwork, or a variety of other items. My offerings are returns to Her for Her abundance.

Genuine and generous offerings can be in the form of donations to humanitarian causes, whether organizations or individuals. The offerings can be monetary, or in the form of my own labor and time, volunteering as my offering to the Goddess.

When I donate, is it out of the stirrings of my heart of compassion, or out of guilt or a case of the "shoulds"? My offerings should be made from love and abundance and gratitude, and the desire to thank Her for Her gifts.

Just-a-Minute (JAM)

2006-08-03T08:36:00.000-07:00

http://www.gvnr.com/113/3.htm
Global Village News and Resources Issue 113 - August, 2006

A dynamic new campaign to create personal peace in an ever-increasing global climate of chaos and change is being launched at Wembley Arena on Sunday 17th September.

Organised by the Brahma Kumaris, a global women-led spiritual organisation, the initiative introduces regular one-minute periods of silence into people’s lives, whether stressed out city executives, busy mums or high profile public figures.

Entitled just-a-minute (j-a-m), the worldwide campaign includes multi-media tools, such as one-minute spoken meditations to download onto computers or podcast; a creative viral campaign; events in major cities across the world, including Rio, Moscow, Sydney, Johannesburg and Madrid plus a simultaneous minute wave of peace to be linked live on the internet to over 100 countries.

The audience will also experience the love, peace and wisdom of three women, who between them have the combined power of 200 years of spiritual study and meditation. Now in their senior years, these three yogis, Dadi Janki, Dadi Gulzar and Dadi Prakashmani, who had no formal education and who set aside the constraints of social convention in their homeland of India, to become renowned world spiritual leaders, will be appearing for the first time together on the international stage.

The just-a-minute launch event is dedicated to the United Nations International Day of Peace and celebrating 70 years of Brahma Kumaris World Spiritual University.

Influential personalities, leaders and community heroes, including the Chief Rabbi, Sir Jonathan Sacks and leading environmentalist Satish Kumar are lending their support for the campaign and sharing their stories of the impact of moments of silent reflection on their lives, to be featured in the just-a-minute DVD and website.

Visit the website at www.just-a-minute.org and click on the link to view an animated presentation of j-a-m: http://www.just-a-minute.org/movie.html.

Laws of Ma'at - 5

2006-07-20T08:22:00.000-07:00

I affirm that all life is sacred.

In this time of unrest around the globe, and comments like "there is no moral equivalent" between the deaths of Israelis and the deaths of Lebanese civilians, this Law of Ma'at is particularly timely.

All life is sacred - not just human life, but ALL life - the four-leggeds, many-leggeds, no-leggeds, feathered, scaled and rooted. Each person must determine for themselves how this belief plays out in their own life. Will you choose to be a vegetarian? or a vegan? or only eat free-range, wild-caught, organic foods? Will you choose to kill the spider in the bathtub, or catch it and release it outside? Will you choose to be a pacificist or to defend yourself?

All life is sacred - no life is to be considered as one's property. No life should be taken indiscriminately or just for pleasure. Life that is taken should be consciously honored as a gift from the Goddess/God.

All life is sacred.

Mary Magdalen Event July 30th

2006-07-18T05:48:00.000-07:00

An Invitation for a Mary Magdalen afternoon
at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Long Beach
on Sunday, July 30th

Celebrate with an MM workshop, an MM playday, MM serious and laughing, humming, singing, dancing.

The theme is Myriam the Questioner. Do you have questions for her?
Does She have questions for you? Do you have questions for you?

She is Goddess of Paradox.
She is the One Who Asks Too Many Questions, but she did not sit down
and remain still. And she is Divine Silence, Stillness.
She is the One who arises and Returns: Divine Woman, Passionate
Female, Dancing, Questioning, Knowing, Being.

Time: 1:30PM to 5:00 PM, ending with celebration of Gnostic Rite @4PM
Address: 5450 Atherton Blvd, Long Beach
Donation: $15-25 or whatever you can do--no one turned away
Bring food or flower if you so desire.
Contact: Catherine Wright,

Event co-sponsored by Temple of Isis/Los Angeles and the Spritual Practices Committe of UUCLB

Sisters of the Sea Ritual

2006-07-10T05:55:00.000-07:00

Isis! Aphrodite! Mari! Yemaya! Nephthys! Kwan Yin!
All Hail the Sisters of the Sea!

It's time to celebrate Isis' Birthday and the Sisters of the Sea once again. Bring offerings of flowers, herbs, fruit, chocolote, and whatever else you hear the Sisters calling to you to bring.
All such offerings should be able to go in the Ocean!
Bring your non-organic Goddess images as well
for one of the Beach Blanket Altars.

Please RSVP to isishazel@yahoo.com
Saturday, July 15 2006
8AM, Dockweiler Beach (LAX area)
click here for pictures from Iseum of Isis Pelagia's 2005 Ritual

Laws of Ma'at - 4

2006-07-02T13:10:00.000-07:00

I respect the property of others

This seems like a no-brainer to me. Do not destroy or damage or take anyone else's property. Not just physical property, but intellectual property as well. Do not take credit for another's work.

Sometimes people forget that public places are also the property of others - the property of all of us. I am amazed by the amount of litter I see everywhere today. There seems to be little respect for shared spaces, for highways and sidewalks. My father used to tell us "always leave a place cleaner than when you found it".

Laws of Ma'at - 3

2006-06-05T06:00:00.000-07:00

I am non-violent

This is not an easy statement to make, and indeed, I humbly admit to seeking to be non-violent. I believe my actions are non-violent, but my thoughts when driving down the freeway most definitely are not! I do believe that non-violence is the key to the survival of the human race, its siblings of the other living species, and to the Earth itself.

The following information is from The King Center in Atlanta, Georgia, USA. If you ever get the chance to visit the Center, please do so. It is an awe-inspiring and tranformative place.

Six Principles of Non-violence
1. Non-violence is a way of life for courageous people.
2. Non-violence seeks to win friendship and understanding.
3. Non-violence seeks to defeat injustice, not people.
4. Non-violence holds that suffering can educate and transform.
5. Non-violence chooses love instead of hate.
6. Non-violence believes that the Universe is on the side of justice.

Six Steps of Non-violence for Social and Personal Change
1. Information gathering
2. Education
3. Personal commitment
4. Negotiations
5. Direct action
6. Reconciliation

As Dr. King said, "Non-violence or non-existence". The choice is clear.

Summer Solstice Faire

2006-06-04T08:24:00.000-07:00

JoinLong Beach WomanSpirit
and the Temple of Isis/Los Angeles
at the annual

Summer Solstice Faire
Saturday, June 10, 2006
10AM to 5:00PM
Unitarian Universalist Church
5450 Atherton, Long Beach
just west of Bellflower, south of the 405 F'way, north of 7th Street
$5 Donation - includes one free raffle ticket
COME SHOP, PLAY, STAY ALL DAY

Over 90 Vendor Booths
Networking Table (bring your flyers to share)
Hourly Raffle of Vendor Donated Items
Come see us at our Reiki Booth - Menhir Mysteries!

ALL DAY ENTERTAINMENT
10:00 Opening Circle with Ella Reed
10:30 Miranda Rondeau
11:15 Kahena and Banaat al-Qamar
12:00 Liqdzunshine
1:00 The Cloverfields
2:00 Miri Hunter Haruach
3:00 The Nubian Divas and Closing Circle

Event co-sponsored by
the Spiritual Practices Committee of UUCLB

"We are always coming into being" Letecia Layson, Priestess of Morphogenesis

Laws of Ma'at - 2

2006-05-16T09:17:00.000-07:00

I benefit without conflict.

There are two interpretations of this one.

I benefit without causing conflict. I do not have to step on anyone else in order to improve my circumstances. I can earn a living without causing conflict. I can build my personal power without taking it from someone else. I can have a spiritual life without criticizing anyone else's spiritual life or religious beliefs. When I do not exude the energy of conflict, it benefits others around me as well as myself.

I benefit when conflict does not exist. Without the stress created by conflict, my life is more stable, more peaceful, more healthy. I benefit when the conflict of rival gangs does not invade my neighborhood. I benefit when the conflict of rival nations does not create war. I benefit when my religious beliefs and spiritual path are not the target/source of conflict with another religion or spiritual path.

Either way, averting conflict is the most beneficial path.

Is this the same as avoiding confrontation? I don't think so. Confrontation comes from misunderstanding, and if clear communication occurs, the confrontation can be the path to understanding, and a means of averting conflict. When we avoid confrontation, we are acting out of fear, and we lose our personal power. We can speak the truth to power without creating or participating in conflict.

Magdalene Beltane

2006-04-22T08:09:00.000-07:00

Saturday, April 29, 2006 at 3:30 PM
Wylder Hall - Unitarian Universalist Church
5450 Atherton, Long Beach CA

Come celebrate Beltane with the Magdalene,
with She Who is container of the Mystery of the Two-in-One.
Come to dance in surging Fullness,
One-ness,
Wholeness;
come to dance YOUR Living Fullness.
Bring a taper to light from flame (to be blown out right away)
and take home with you,
Bring a rose, or other flower,
Bring your joy, bring your openness to joy.
Bring a noisemaker and/or snack food ad lib.

Event sponsored by Spritual Practices Committee of UUCLB.

How Fire Came to the People

2006-04-03T05:48:00.000-07:00

For Joanne: The Beginnings, Part I

Long ago. The breath of the Goddess blew gently over the waters and the heat of the sun began to dry the land that Turtle and Duck had brought up from the ocean depths. The People went to bed with the sun, shivering in the darkness until the sun awoke again. It was hardest during the month of the long nights, when the People weren't tired but it was too dark to be up and about.

One night as the sun was going to bed over the waters, Raven perched on the top of a tree preening her beautiful white feathers. She was very proud of her plumage, and didn't like having even a drop of mud on her wings. Pausing for a moment, she overheard the People complaining about the short days, wishing the sun would leave a part of itself behind for light and warmth in the night. "What a great idea!" thought Raven. Only a small girl saw the flash of white as Raven took off from the tall cedar and flew to the West.

Raven flew a long way, stopping briefly on a small island for a drink of fresh water. She sighed as she watched a small animal scamper away from the creek, wishing there was time for dinner; but she was determined to follow through with her idea and so she flew off again.

Finally, Raven caught up with the sun and explained her plan. The sun happily obliged, taking a small bit of fire and placing it on Raven's white back, balancing it carefully so that it wouldn't interfere with her wings. Once again, Raven flew off, this time to the East, not even stopping once as she flew back into the darkness. Even though it was dark and the wind was cold, she felt a warmth from between her wingblades. She was sure she was overworking those muscles, and she would definitely be sore the next day!

She landed carefully at the foot of the cedar tree and walked slowly to where the People slept. She leaned back on her tail and the bit of the sun rolled down her back and off her tail and into a clump of dried cedar leaves. Just at that moment, a whisper of the breath of the Goddess floated down the valley, and a small flame arose from the blackened ember. Following the sun's instructions, Raven carried nest-building materials over to the flame and soon it was burning brightly, bright enough for the People to think that morning had come!

Soon they were all awake, watching this amazing thing called FIRE as it danced and crackled and warmed the air. Raven sat on a nearby bush, pleased that the People were enjoying her gift. After a few moments, that same little girl who saw her fly away approached her timidly. "What happened to your feathers?" she asked. "They were white when you left last night, but now they are black!" Startled, Raven leaned back to preen her wingblades, and sure enough! the coal had turned her beautiful white feathers a deep dark black. "You are still beautiful!" said the little girl.

And that is how Raven's feathers became black.

Gnostic Rite of Mary Magdalene

2006-04-01T07:58:00.000-08:00

Come celebrate the Gnostic Rite of the Holy Order of Myriam of Magdala with Catherine Wright, priestess of TOILA and newly ordained in the Holy Order. This ritual re-enacts the myth of Sophia, Feminine Divine, and Logos in the Gnostic sacrament of the Bridal Chamber, with pagan and Isian mythic elements, with absolutely zero dogmatic or doctrinal content.

Saturday, April 8, 2006 3:30PM
Unitarian Universalist Church of Long Beach - Wylder Hall
5450 Atherton St., Long Beach CA 90815

Bring yourSelf, snack food to share or flowers for altar.
Donations welcome.

Return of the Maiden

2006-03-24T05:31:00.000-08:00

We arrive at the cusp of spring
The Goddess beckons,
Calling forth the green freshness
the bright colors of new-born growth
The sun shines more brightly
higher on the horizon
warming the lengthening days
The birds emerge from their winter hiding
sending greetings to the Maiden
as she returns from the Underworld
Refreshed and renewed, a playful Youth

We greet the Spring
The Soul awakens from its slumber
praising the newness of creation
Stretching out the dreams of winter
Rising to the thaw of the spring sun
Dancing to the light of the clear full moon
Singing to the lambs and blooming hills
Praising the return of the Goddess

c. 1996 Bansagart

Harita Meenee in Long Beach

2006-03-15T05:36:00.000-08:00

Callistia Lee, Priestess of Aphrodite and LBWS Elder, and LBWS/TOILA are sponsoring the visit of Harita Meenee, Greek Goddess Scholar, to the Long Beach (CA) area this month. Harita is the author of The Women’s Olympics and the Great Goddess (available in English)and The Sacred Feminine and Mary Magdalene (soon to be available in English).

Harita Meenee’s Speaking Events, March 2006
For more detailed information, contact Callista Lee at Callista.lee@verizon.net or phone (562) 494-7565. This tour is sponsored by Long Beach WomanSpirit and the Temple of Isis/Los Angeles and by the generous support of hosting venues. The author is also available for interviews with the press. Please contact Callista Lee to make arrangements.

Friday, March 17th
– Welcome Party, 7pm-Midnight, pot-luck at a private home in Long Beach. By invitation only – please contact Callista Lee ASAP if you are interested in attending.

Sunday, March 19th
– Informal presentation/dinner topic: The Magdalene; 6pm-9pm at a private home in Long Beach. By invitation only – please contact Callista Lee ASAP if you are interested in attending.

Tuesday, March 21st
– California State University Long Beach, Lecture Hall 151?, 5-7pm, "Ancient Olympics" sponsored by the CSULB Women’s Center. This is not a "public" event, but community folks may attend. Nominal fee for parking on campus.

Thursday, March 23rd
- CSULB Women’s Center, invitation-only, small group discussion, "Mary Magdalene." Please contact Callista ASAP for an invitation and a chance to get a parking pass!

Saturday, March 25th -
Ritual and Pot-Luck Feast to celebrate Aphrodite,
6-9pm, co-sponsored by the Long Beach Unitarian Universalist Church (no admission fee but "love offerings" accepted to support Harita’s trip). Ritual by Long Beach WomanSpirit and the Temple of Isis/Los Angeles celebrating Aphrodite in all of Her Aspects with emphasis on Aphrodite as a Peace Goddess. UU Church Wylder Hall, 5450 Atherton Street, just west of Bellflower Blvd, in Long Beach. Open to the Public.

Sunday, March 26th
– 11am Sunday Service at the Orange County Goddess Temple, "The Divine Feminine & Sacred Sexuality" – Women Only. 17905 Sky Park Circle, Suite A, Irvine, CA 92614
http://www.goddesstempleoforangecounty.com/

Harita’s Books in print include:
The Women’s Olympics and the Great Goddess
(2004) - now available in English
The Sacred Feminine and Mary Magdalene
(2005) - soon available in English
A Feast for the Goddess
(2005) a cookbook she has co-authored - soon to be available in English
All are available through "Greece in Print."

Book Review: Truth or Dare

2006-02-25T08:06:00.000-08:00

Truth or Dare: Encounters with Power, Authority and Mystery by Starhawk. Published by Harper & Row, 1987.

Starhawk is a well-known pagan author, activist and speaker, and one of the founders of the Reclaiming Collective. In Truth or Dare, she weaves the story of the Descent of Inanna with stories about challenging the structures of power-over that permeate the modern world. This book is a wonderful resource for those who want to understand how society become one of power-over, what the difference is between power-over and power-with, and how we can find ways to re-create our world as one of interdependence rather than dominion.

Starhawk also challenges the culture of war as a tool of the power-over model, and offers ways that we can deprogram ourselves from the internalized Judge, Conqueror, and Censor. Included are exercises, rituals and meditations that can be used by individuals and groups who want to understand how their encounters with Mystery can lead them to create sustainable communities of empowerment.

I recommend this book to anyone who is ready to take the dare and face the truth!

A Gnostic Prayer to Isis-Sophia

2006-02-15T09:25:00.000-08:00

A Gnostic Prayer to Isis-Sophia

Praise you, Mother Sophia;
Praise you, Great Goddess –

Hail to you Aset, Holy Virgin, Mother of God;
You who birth souls to the Infinite and Eternal,
Whose grace is the Light of the Day of Be-With-Us!

Yea though I walk in the day of your mourning,
Yet with your Forethought I behold your joy,
And with your Afterthought I gaze into your heart –
The perfection of Light and Love, Life and Liberty!

Placing lotus blossoms upon your alter, and
making offerings of incense and lights;
Envisioning the offering of everything good,
in the heavens and on earth,
I worship in your Light-presence and
call forth your Light-power,
Send the Opener of the Way before me,
Let the Spiritual Sun shine from within me:
O Mother, give birth to your Holy Child –
Empower me to go forth in the Divine Light!

There is Light and there is Fire,
and your Great Spirit passing through;
One Aeon dissolves and another arises,
but all is in you as in a Holy Womb –
You, the Portal of All-Worlds;
You the Life of All-Worlds:
You giving birth!

I pray, Holy Mother,
that you might part your veil,
that I might see you in all your forms,
And perchance glimpse into the In-between
to behold your True Essence;
Such is my prayer, such my inmost heart's desire,
To know you and to love you,
To be at-one with you!

Ave Sophia!

--Tau Malachi

42 Ideals of Ma'at: First is Virtue

2006-02-08T05:52:00.000-08:00

The 42 Ideals of Ma'at (formerly known as the 42 Laws of Ma'at) were created by nine priestesses of the Temple of Isis in 1995, and were based on the Negative Confessions. Each week, we will be looking at one of these ideals.

I honor virtue.

Virtue is defined by the Oxford dictionary as "moral excellence; uprightness; goodness". Wordnet defines virtue as "the quality of doing what is right and avoiding what is wrong".

The values of "right" and "wrong" often vary in different cultures, different times, and even in individuals. Even doing something that is considered "wrong" can be right for that particular circumstance. Knowing the difference between "right" and "wrong" can be taught at young ages, but as we mature and develop, we must establish an internal meter for measuring moral decisions, based on our own understanding of morality and virtue.

How can we honor virtue in ourselves and others?

We honor virtue when we have made a difficult moral choice, basing our decision not on our own ego desire, but on what furthers our Higher Purpose and helps us connect more closely with the Goddess.

We honor virtue when we speak our Truth, even in the face of confrontation or derision.

We honor virtue when we develop an understanding of how people make moral decisions, based on their own level of development, and encourage them to take the next step. Lawrence Kohlberg's Stages of Moral Development is a wonderful tool in learning how morality -- and virtue -- develop.

We honor virtue when we continue to seek a life in harmony with our Higher Purpose and the Goddess.

What are some specific ways you can honor virtue?

Imbolc

2006-01-29T17:10:00.000-08:00

It has been six weeks since the solstice – winter is half over. The days are growing noticeably longer even as the weather here in Southern California grows colder and damper. In many areas, the first bulbs are beginning to break through the snow, but here, we are gearing up for the rainy season, the return of earth’s waters that will make our land green and bountiful again.

If we pay attention to the world around us, we see tiny buds beginning to appear at the ends of tree branches, and new shoots of green grass breaking through the soil. The birds are beginning their mating flights and nest-building. Winter is half over, and they must fly further afield and look harder for food. Other animals are starting to stir from their hibernation, and are hungry too.
February 2 is Groundhog Day, when Punxsutawney Phil will poke his head out from his underground home to see if his shadow will tell him how much longer winter will last. We already know the answer: spring is still six weeks away.

Our inner journey reflects the season. We too are beginning to stir from our winter hibernation. We begin to ask how long the winter will last within us, while we begin to feel the first stirrings of new life. We start to plan for the coming months, our plans based on whatever we have discovered about ourselves during the winter’s reflections in the darkness.

This season was first celebrated in ancient lands as the lambing season: Oimelc, or Imbolc, meaning “ewe’s milk”. As the winter dragged on, food supplies would run low and the ability to have fresh milk and cheese saved lives.

In Celtic lands, this feast was also known as Là Fhéill Bhrìghde, sacred to the Great Goddess Brighid, who appeared at Imbolc after the Cailleach, the hag of winter, danced upon the snow-topped hills. One of her titles was Brighid nam Brata, or Brighid of the Green Mantle, the green hills of the islands and her power of healing. Fire and Water were sacred to Her. In fact, there was a perpetual flame dedicated to her in Kildare for at least a thousand years, first tended by 19 priestesses in a 20-day rotating cycle, with Brighid Herself tending the flame on the 20th day. The priestesses were eventually replaced by a group of Christian nuns until Henry VIII had the abbey destroyed. The flame was left unlit until 1993 when a group of nuns returned to Kildare and rekindled the flame, where it is again kept perpetually burning. People around the world have since joined a group called Ord Brighideach, and we each take a shift every 20 days to light the flame of Kildare and tend it so that the flame is burning 24 hours a day around the world.

The Goddess Brighid was later transformed into St. Brigid, who was called Mary of the Gaels, midwife to the Virgin, and foster-mother of Jesus. The Christian church took the feast of Imbolc and rededicated it to the Virgin Mary as Candlemas, the celebration of Mary’s purification in the temple 40 days after Christmas.

In many other cultures, such as the Aztec, Iroqois, and the cultures of Asia, this was the time of the New Year celebration, the second new moon after the solstice. Chinese New Year was just a week ago, at the new moon, and we have entered the Year of the Monkey.

It is said that “studying nature is learning divinity”. One way to connect with the earth and its seasons is to take nature walks, learning to identify the plants, animals and birds that are active at different times of the year. Another way is to support environmental causes, adopting wildlife, and participating in beach clean-ups. Growing your own garden is of course another way!

What signs of new life are emerging in nature? How does the energy of the earth feel?

What signs of new life are emerging in you? How does your energy feel?

What can you do to encourage new growth in your life?

What steps can you take now that will help your dreams to quicken?

What can you do to help your connection to the earth grow?

When we respect the earth, the land itself becomes a magic cauldron, full of abundance. The Earth is the Great Mother of all life. The health of the Earth is reflected in the health of our own physical bodies as well.

This is the time to focus our energies on sending healing to the Earth and honoring her gifts to us: water, fire, soil, wind, food, shelter….

Together let us send healing and thanks to the Earth for her gifts.

c. 2004

Tending Brighid's Flame

2006-01-29T08:28:00.000-08:00

Brighid, bean-oirdheirc
Lasrach grad
Fetaim lasrach soillse
Thoir cuireadh sinne
ris a' bheatha
mhaireannach`

Brighid, Sublime Woman
Quick flame
Long may you burn bright!
You give us the invitation
to life everlasting.

Cill Elm, Fourth Shift
Ord Brighideach

Happy Hogmanay!

2006-01-01T11:02:00.000-08:00

Hogmanay began in the Scottish Highlands as a celebration of the New Year. Because of the Protestant Reformation in Scotland, it was illegal to celebrate Christmas (it was seen as a Papist - aka Catholic - holiday) until the 1950s. In fact, Christmas was a regular work day for most people. In order to get around this law, Scots began to add in their Christmas celebrations to their New Year's Eve celebration, exchanging gifts for Hogmanay.

One of the traditions at Hogmanay is known as "First Footing". The first person to cross the threshold after midnight (or more traditionally, after sunset on New Year's Eve) should be a "tall, dark stranger" bearing gifts of bread, meat and drink, bringing prosperity to the home for the coming year. It could be a little difficult finding someone to perform the First Footing - it had to be someone with no red or blond in their hair (in Scotland?!?!) - but this was for a good historical reason: if the stranger was dark-haired, it wasn't likely that they were a Viking raider, was it?

Bonfires were also a part of the Hogmanay tradition, a continuation of the bonfires that once celebrated the Winter Solstice, driving away the darkness and assisting in the rebirth of the sun as its path once again turned toward the northern hemisphere.

You won't find a traditional Hogmanay celebration in the streets of Glasgow or Edinburough. Hogmanay celebrations in the larger cities more closely resemble the parties held in New York's Times Square.

Beannacht leat!