Consonants and Vowels...

Gebo

Ansuz

Nauthiz


Yikes... Am I in for a ride! :)

Gebo means gift... well, I see it as a gift for a gift normally- Almost like a karmic present- "What goes around comes around..." While it also represents relationships, unions.. etc. In relation to that, I believe when Gebo is drawn in regards to a relationship issue- which it was... It means that it is hard to undo- As Gebo cannot be reversed... However-

Combine that with Ansuz- the intuition I feel, the spoken word of my Gods, The voice of reason which is whispered on the wind... Yes, I am listening an paying close attention. I am seeing many things and clarity in this situation is sad and scary yet liberating as well.

And Nauthiz- That's a loaded rune for me... But, I see it today. It's tricky. Nauthiz can be a negative rune and stand for loss and sorrow. It can also stand for repeated mistakes- a lesson that has gone unlearned. It could mean many things. Things that I am not maybe ready to heed. But, what I see form this today is this: There are things in life that I need. That the kids NEED. Not wants. I am NOT a material person contrary to popular belief. Don't get me wrong, I enjoy the finer things to an extent, but I don't expect to be covered in jewels, and designer clothing. But, I do need to feel loved. I need some stimulation- no, not sexual- but, intellectual. I need to be surrounded by something positive in my life, to feel alive, not as a withering autumn leaf... I feel dead inside- my heart lays still awaiting a miracle to revive it. My children, lifeless... I see it in their eyes... I need to be able to pay my bills and not see my hard worked money tossed out the window without a care- I have worked hard to find the career I have. I have met my goals professionally, and I am trying to be an example to my kids... I need to feel as if I have more of an equal instead of someone who wishes to ride my coat tails and is perfectly happy unemployed living off of the help of others... Wow, That's alot of need. There are times, I feel like a vacuum- an empty vacuum- void of alot of what I "need".

The Fork spread is used at critical turning points, to understand the dynamics of an important decision. Jade Runes are most commonly used for questions about love, friendship, and relationships.

The left rune represents the first possible outcome. Man represents Mankind. This rune evokes the image that although we must make much of our way in the world on our own, there is nevertheless an entire populous that shares similar experiences. Thus, this rune represents the relationship of the self with the whole - working together we can produce great results. Additionally, Man speaks to intellect and culture that separate us from the animals.

The right rune represents the second possible outcome. Tyr is the symbol of the warrior. This rune most represents masculine force and potency, and frequently victory in battle. Beware though, for this rune represents directly the Norse god whose name it bears - Tyr stands out in legend for having sacrificed his hand that he might bind Fenrir, a monstrous wolf that threatens to swallow the world. As such, this rune is known to portend a great victory that can be bought with a terrible sacrifice. Tyr is also the god of law, frequently placed in such position above Odin. In this aspect, protection of justice may be had by this rune.

The bottom rune represents the critical factor that determines what will come to pass. Thurisaz the thorn represents barriers and senseless violence. Here we see the thorn overturned. This could mean that erected barriers will not hold, or that senseless violence can be avoided. Also, remember where thorns are found - perhaps this rune portends that a goal can be obtained easily and without interference. Grasp for the rose...

The Cross spread is used to plot the arc of your life and the forces acting on it. It is the most popular spread, giving a very complete view of the situation. Stone Runes are most commonly used for questions about the natural world and things beyond human control.

The left rune represents an important element of the past. Man refers to Mankind and your interaction with the whole of human population. This rune is reversed, suggesting a separation from your fellow man. There is a lack of harmony in your interaction with others, either because you do not accept society or society does not accept you. Alternatively, this rune may also represent your separation from nature, and your ability to rise above the base level of being. As the rune is reversed, this may suggest an incomplete level of spiritual attainment or an intellectual block.

The middle rune represents a deciding element of the present. Ansuz is the spoken word of God. This rune is reversed, indicating that you are misunderstanding the divine voice or failing to hear it all. The word is always correct, so you must strive, whatever the difficulty, to hear correctly. Be wary of the advice you are given, for it may prove incorrect. Do not attribute infallibility to fallible sources...

The top rune represents a force that works for you. Wunjo is the rune of joy. The reversal of this rune suggests that joy is withheld. Since joy is frequently communal, this rune often suggests loneliness. Alternatively, some have seen Wunjo as the rune of perfection and the rune of the gods. Therefore this rune reversed could signal a feeling of separation from one's deity, or as imperfection in an important work.

The bottom Rune represents a force that works against you. Ger is one of the runes that touches on the cycles of the year, in this case the fall harvest. These cycles are eternal, which is represented in the rune by the fact that it is unchanged by reversal. Ger can represent pregnancy or other forms of fruitfulness, and is especially indicative of the cycles of providence and karma - that which has been sown is now being reaped. This rune can also represent the cycles of wealth, for crops were frequently a sign of wealth.

The right rune represents the critical element of the future, at the core of the final outcome. Nyd is frequently seen as a powerfully negative rune. You have drawn the rune reversed, which will lessen some of its effects. Generally Nyd represents loss, sorrow, and a hard journey with lessons learned. Nyd reversed here might be cautioning that the lessons might go unheeded representing repeated mistakes. The rune here might also be representing a minor loss or a nearly avoided catastrophe. Be careful, things are tricky and require strong attentiveness.

I forgot to post this the other night... I had the eihwaz rune fall out when I was doing a reading so I meditated on it a bit...








So I meditated on the rune itself and ended up under a very large tree. The branches were long and slender and flexible. There were no leaves on this tree, but it was not dead. At first glance I thought it was dead, long gone. I could smell the earth very strongly and noticed that I was barefoot, digging my toes in the dirt as I love to do... The tree was alone, but there were other trees in the distance. Some had full leaves, some had sparse leaves, a few looked pretty dead. I wasn't sure if I should walk or what? So, I sat for a moment in front of the tree. A piece of bark was peeling off like parchment and when I picked it off, I noticed some lines. It looked like "something", a drawing, or a symbol but it wasn't finished yet. It frustrated me that I couldn't make out what it was. For some reason, I ate it. I chewed it up and swallowed it. It tasted like bread ( like communion at church when I used to go). I felt whole, my heart warmed and I stood up to see the leaves on the tree explode into growth and even flowers bloom. They were beautiful blue flowers. I stood under the tree as the wind blew and the petals rained overhead like a blue petal shower... It was absolutely breathtaking.

What appears to be dead or gone may be dormant or hidden. If I internalize that death or change then that can lead to new life and beauty... lol At least that is my take on this! It was a really powerful meditation... I could still taste the bread on my tongue.

While I usually celebrate a more "witchy" new year in October, I have decided to make a few resolutions this year.

Firstly, I am beginning to wonder if it is such a good idea to eat sushi and edamame while I am keenly aware that I am allergic to avocado and soybeans... I absolutely pigged out last night and today, my nose is so stuffed, I have a headache, and generally don't feel well. And, no I am not hung over. I had 2 of my new favorite beers last night ans was in bed by 2 am. It was a nice night though. We watched movies, ordered in, had a few drinks and spent some nice time together. But anyway, maybe I should cut back on the allergens for a while... I just love them so much!

Secondly, is an obvious and cliched resolution. I want to get in shape. Chad tells me how nice I look, but I need to "feel" it. So, I am going to watch what I eat. No radical diets. Drink more water. And exercise at least 3 times a week. I am hoping to do Yoga every day, but don't want to set the bar too high.

I had already mentioned in earlier posts about delving into my spirituality a bit more... That is proving interesting. I heard another word in trance work which I am desperately trying to figure out... It sounded like ardentstrider. I was walking in a woods, and I heard it out of no where... Very odd. I have been delving into books and old notes, but not much luck so far. So far I have come up with stridr: verkr, a strong pain. The beginning I don't get.... Will keep ya posted. In the meantime, a rune draw for the new year

This one flew out of my hand....
Eihwaz.

Endings.

This rune is often associated with death but it is never negative. It reminds us that new beginnings and fresh starts can only come after some aspect of our life has died off. It encourages us to embrace change and make the best use of the opportunities it offers.

On a cautionary note it warns us to stay alert to what is happening around us and to be prepared to defend our position.

Around it I drew:
Thurisaz

Thorn or Strength

You are supported and protected. Fate stands with you. Seek counsel before making important decisions, this is a time to ask for help - it will be there for you and may provide you with more than you expect.

The darker side of this rune may also act as a warning that the thing we need protection from is actually ourselves.

Jera

Harvest, Year

All things in life are cyclical, we can reap only what we sow. We must be prepared to nurture the seeds we plant and give them space and time enough to grow, only then will we enjoy fully the fruits of our labous.

Now may be the time to prepare for future growth.

Dagaz

Daylight, Dawn, Breakthrough

Dagaz reminds us that this is a life of balance - good & evil, dark & light - all extremes have their opposite and it is possible to move from one to the other. This is the rune of transformation, the power which is available to all of us.

It can also signify the end of dark times, as if stepping out in to the light. Success is within reach.

Wow'. All in all a very good reading. This year will hold alot of promise. Changes, but it appears that the changes are good ones...

Happy new year to you all... I am off to play World of Warcraft! lol

I guess with all the stress lately at work and the ice storm fiasco with lack of power for 3 days... I haven't really taken the time to relax and get into the mood for the holidays. I feel rushed and unready. I am questioning the fits I have bought. I feel like I haven't enough... It sucks when you don't have money this time of year. There is such a focus on the material... It makes me angry. I am just happy and content to spend time with friends and family and tip back a few... I was supposed to get of early today and be off on Xmas and Friday. I will be getting off at normal time today and will be working Friday. Yuck. I like my job, but I really just wanted a break. Maybe I will take a small vacation soon.

Anyway, I am feeling blah, I suppose the weather is partly to blame. I will perk up soon, I hope.

I did an online rune draw this morning because I forgot my own at home. I don't usually do "reverse" meanings for runes. This site does though. The reading seems to be right on for me today!

The Norn spread is used to plot the crucial elements of past, present, and future, and to reveal the evolution of the situation through the arc of time. Stone Runes are most commonly used for questions about the natural world and things beyond human control.

The left rune represents an important element of the past. Algiz plainly shows the antlers of the elk that it represents. The elk is the object of the hunt, and hence Algiz speaks to the pursuit of goals and the thrill of that pursuit. The rune is currently shown reversed, so this could suggest a failed endeavor or a lack of effort. Algiz is also representative of a protective hand (fingers open wide), so the reversed form may indicate a failed defense.

The middle rune represents a deciding element of the present. Uruz is the name of the Auroch, an extinct prehistoric ox. This animal was strong and brave, and was the focus of rites of manhood in older days. Reversed, this rune symbolizes either the lack of challenge, or the lack of preparation for a challenge. This rune suggests that you must reach deep within in order to gain the power you will need, whether to get out of your current rut, or to face what appears to be a hopeless situation.

The right rune represents the critical element of the future. Sowelu is a strong symbol, for it represents the sun. Unlike equatorial cultures who may see the sun as a harsh and imperial force capable of causing droughts, in the cold north the sun is a purely feminine force that gives life and allows crops to grow. In dark times, this rune represents clarity of sight and the victory of good over evil. Sowelu is irreversible, as the cycles of the sun and seasons are perpetual. http://www.facade.com/runes/

Perthro-

Something hidden comes to light or a secret is disclosed. Look beyond the surface things are not always as they seem. Use your intuition, take a gamble.

An unexpected gain.

Inner transformations. Fate. Unlocking ancestral memory.


Ehwaz- This may well prove to be a good time for travel or perhaps a journey of a different kind. Venturing out with the intention of creating new situations in either your home or work life should bear fruit.

This is also a sign that you are on track, all your efforts are coming to fruition.

Ansuz- Important information will be communicated to you, be aware and alert to it as it may require you to recognize its significance. Seek counsel from your elders, remember wisdom can come through through learning from the experience of others.

This rune is about communication of all kinds including the artistic forms. It also never symbolises the power of words and cautions us to beware that we do not wound or offend with our words.

I usually associate Ansuz with Odin and spiritual information...

Hmmmmmmmmmmm.

Kenaz -A time of clarity when many things will become clear. Enlightenment. From darkness and confusion comes light and realization, now is the time to focus your energies in to breaking through. The future holds good luck and good fortune.

A good time for looking at oneself to gain a greater understanding.

Brings warmth and protection. Kenaz suggests vitality and new energy. An inspirational and creative force that can open new opportunities.

Elhaz -

The things that you have worked so hard for are coming to fruition. New relationships will enrich your life and positive influences are shaping every aspect of your existence.

Even in the heat of battle you are protected, wisdom and vision are your allies.


Perthro-

Something hidden comes to light or a secret is disclosed. Look beyond the surface things are not always as they seem. Use your intuition, take a gamble.

An unexpected gain.

Inner transformations. Fate. Unlocking ancestral memory.

So, I have been dreaming alot of my grandmother. This last dream I had was so vivid. I was in my old front yard, but it was bigger somehow, and covered in snow. It was snowing, gently. Soft, flakes landing on my lashes and staying there. Gramma came to me and pointed at the nearest tree. She walked over to it and carved some lines. She hugged me and called me "You always were my little rider of the trees"... I looked at the tree and it was a bindrune. I tried to sketch it when I awoke, but have not been able to get it right. I am hoping to dream of it again. But, until I do... I am curious... "My little rider of the trees"... What do you guys think of this? I have my own thoughts and am doing my own searching... But, what ideas do you have?

"Bottom line is, even if you see 'em coming, you're not ready for the big moments. No one asks for their life to change, not really. But it does. So what are we, helpless? Puppets? No. The big moments are gonna come, you can't help that. It's what you do afterwards that counts. That's when you find out who you are."

That is a quote from a favorite "Buffy" episode... quite fitting that the episode is called "Becoming" I was watching a little Buffy tonight and yea, I find inspiration in the strangest places. :) I was so fixated on the title... "becoming". It started me thinking.

So, I sat there for a while, playing with my hair, and then started down this path of thought that took me back to my Vanic witchcraft or Germanic witchcraft days. I started thinking of wyrd and orlog. I began focusing on disir... and eventually settled on the Norns. I am not sure if any of you are familiar with the Norns, but I have been reading a blog lately (SunTiger) and she was speaking of the Norns. I think that brought back some memories. For several reasons, I had abandoned my Germanic path. We were actually in a kindred and there was turbulence and confusion as relationships were made closer and things changed. It is a long and twisted tale, but it led to infidelity and broken hearts. For a long time, I have abandoned almost all aspects of the Germanic path because of the reminders... But, today I am drawn in. Maybe it was speaking of my grandmother, going through those old family photos... Stirring my disir (Disir are defined differently by different heathens, but the way i see it is this: My Disir are my female ancestors, Goddesses in their own right. To honor the disir is to honor the matrons that came before me... as well as many of the lesser Goddesses...)

Maybe it is the approaching holidays. Association with "family time". Perhaps that is why I am feeling drawn in. I am not sure. But, I feel plugged in. Connected. Becoming.

Becoming what, you ask?

I can't wait to find out!

A rune draw for the evening:

Nauthiz- Patience is a virtue. This is not a time to force things - settle back, live in harmony and go with the flow. Delays do not mean failure, be prepared to amend your plans if necessary but only after careful consideration.

Jera- All things in life are cyclical, we can reap only what we sow. We must be prepared to nurture the seeds we plant and give them space and time enough to grow, only then will we enjoy fully the fruits of our labours.

Dagaz- Dagaz reminds us that this is a life of balance - good & evil, dark & light - all extremes have their opposite and it is possible to move from one to the other. This is the rune of transformation, the power which is available to all of us.

I will ponder this one. It makes perfect sense and it is a good reading. Definitely applies. Well, I am off to slumber. I had a really rough day.

If I am lucky, we will het the 4 inches of ICE they are calling for and I won't possibly be able to make it in to work tomorow! ;)