MORE THAN POCKET CHANGE

© 2012 - Reprinted with permission from Shining Lotus Metaphysical Bookstore Newsletter Dec 12

by Linda Davis, creator of the JOURNEY OF CHANGE coins

Sunday, December 9, 2012.   2 – 3pm.    FREE PRESENTATION.

Join Linda Davis, founder and creator of two coins that are more than “pocket change” and in fact will impact your life. Beautifully represented in the design of the “I Can®” Coin, Linda will share the path of healing that guides her as an inspired energy worker. Linda will also demonstrate the use of the “Journey of Change®” Decision Coin as a pendulum alternative for achieving higher guidance and increased awareness when striving for inner clarity. Coins are available at the store or online. Great Gifts!

http://shininglotus.com/store/products/i-can-coin/

WHEN YOU ARE FACING CHALLENGES, REMEMBER… “I Can”

The inspiration behind this design came when my father was making his transition. He told us to remember “I Can” when things get hard. After he passed in March of 2000 everything that could go wrong did. Now I want to share these tools that developed throughout my journey, leading to the creation of this daily reminder coin. It is a reminder in these times of uncertainty that if we take time to remember the essence of who we are, we can bring many gifts to ourselves.

Front – I Can® … Receive, Laugh, Create, Love, Learn, Endure, Forgive, Grieve, Trust, Heal, Let Go, Feel

Back – I Can® … Be Grateful For The Journey, Overcome Obstacles, Have Courage, Call Forth Abundance, Listen With An Open Heart

“This Coin Is A Visual Reminder Of Your Power”… TO ACTIVATE THE SUNBURST QUALITIES DISPLAYED ON THE COIN AND TO GROUND AND CENTER YOURSELF, PLACE THE COIN BETWEEN YOUR HANDS AND TAKE A FEW DEEP BREATHS, AND SAY “I Can”…

USING the design as a healing and self-empowerment technique: The twelve qualities bursting from the “I Can” Sun in the center are a guide for your self-empowerment.
Take the first step to FORGIVE when you feel you are at your bottom emotionally, and go clockwise contemplating each quality to bring your life back into balance.
Allow yourself to GRIEVE the loss, then start TRUSTing.

The “I Can” was placed in four directions around the coin, representing the directions life can take and holding the qualities within. The lighting bolt on the other side of the coin represents the POWER of “I Can” that can be accessed by you right NOW!

Where to display it besides carrying it with you: display the beautiful coin on your desk, table, nightstand or altar. It will be there to remind you of your true strength.

Retail at $19.95 per set
1 Set Includes: 1 – 1.75″ Round Diameter 2.9mm thick I Can® Daily Reminder Custom Coin
1 – 3″ x 4″ Blue Velvet Pouch
1 – 1 1/2′ x 1 1/4″ x 1 1/2″ Small Black Plastic Coin Easel

About the coin: Each coin is made with a high polish gold plate. It is approximately 2.9mm thick, 1.75 inch diameter (round) and weighs approximately 1.8 ounces. Each side of the coin contains colored lettering with gold finish recessed metal in the background. For more information on the coin, go to www.journeyofchange.com

GET THE AWARD WINNING JOURNEY OF CHANGE® DECISION ASSISTANT COIN…A PENDULUM ALTERNATIVE…

This Custom COIN is a tool to access your higher consciousness and to assist you in making the right decisions!   It is intended to be a “COIN FLIPPING” tool to help you decide between two alternatives or choices. It assists you in awakening to your own Empowerment and Intuition.  Get to know your coin so you can ask your own questions and know how to use the choices to help you get closer to your true answer.

This divination coin has been divided into four quadrants and the middle.  Each side of the coin in the quadrant corresponds to the opposite answer: You can use it to make decisions with regards to a definite YES or NO. Should you ACT (it’s time) or WAIT (not now)? Should you LET GO or HOLD ON? Is the situation (or Chakra) BALANCED or UNBALANCED? Should you proceed during the day SUN or at night MOON? Should you USE INTUITION or ANALYZE IT! ?

You can also make up you own two choices and use the outer black and white ring.

A ritual to activate your inner knowing and assist you with your decision: 1) Hold the coin between both of your hands. 2) Say or think to yourself your full name and your birth place. 3) Visualize or say your question  4) Ask for your inner or higher guidance. 5) FLIP the coin and know that you are fully supported in your decision.If you catch it or if it drops it is still showing you an answer.  If the answer does not feel right, ask yourself  a clearer and more precise question and flip it again.

This will lead you to your inner truth.

Remember, this coin is a tool, should not be used to replace your own inner guidance.

This coin won the 1st Place BLUE RIBBON in the Divination Competition at the Holistic Pavilion at the 1st Annual Denver County Fair, July 2011.   www.journeyofchange.com

Retails at $19.95 per set
1 Set Includes:  1 – 1.50″ Round Diameter 3 mm thick Decision Assistant Coin
Antique Silver Finish
Coin holder

12 / 12 / 12 PSYCHIC FAIR

© 2012 - Reprinted with permission from Shining Lotus Metaphysical Bookstore Newsletter Dec 12

12 / 12 / 12 PSYCHIC FAIR – ALL DAY LONG

Wednesday, December 12, 2012 – 10am to 6pm

$1 a minute Psychic or Tarot Card Readings

$1 a minute Chair Massage or Foot Reflexology

Every item in the store is 12.12% off

Free 12/12 meditation led by Mario C. Veo at 12:00 noon and 4:30 pm

Energy Healings. Kelly Whetstone will bring her clairvoyant and intuitive gifts to assist you in expanding your energetic health and advancing your spiritual growth.
Intuitive Readings. Norma Mitchell will provide very accurate intuitive readings that help clear negativity and invite peace, love, good health and prosperity into your life.
Tarot Readings. SuEllen Shepard will invoke the power and mystery of Tarot Imagery to help you reveal the possibilities as you move forward in your life during this powerful time of 12/12/12.
Tarot Readings. Karma Joe is back for one day only. Joe is an excellent and talented card reader that will astound you with your Tarot reading.
Intuitive Astrology. Marci McCaffery will help you realize your dreams and plans for the next year.
Chair Massage. Edna Garcia will add a relaxing, healing and therapeutic chair massage to your 12/12 experience.
Foot Reflexology. Reflexologist Linda Davis will make sure your body and “sole” are perfectly aligned with a foot massage.
Palmistry. Mario C. Veo will give palmistry and psychic readings throughout the day.

Mario will lead a free 12/12 meditation at 12 noon and then again at 4:30 pm, designed to awaken your awareness, embrace your spirituality and align your abilities with the Divine. This is an entire day dedicated to spiritual awakening and working toward enlightenment.

Save 12.12% on every product in the store, every book, every candle, every card, every gift. Everything is 12.12% off. If you feel guided to be with people of like mind on this auspicious day, please come to the Shining Lotus on December 12, 2012.

THE NUMEROLOGY OF 12 – 12 – 12 by Mario C. Veo

The great Persian Magicians believed that the number 12 could be used to reveal ‘great manipulations’ and expose ‘hidden, or dark deeds’. When this was ignored (either through ignorance, or by willingly turning our eyes away), then the number 12 would attract ‘great sorrow’. No matter which, positive resolution could only be accessed through the concept of Sacrifice, i.e. what are you willing to do to create ’honorable and healthy changes’?

This is a time of Self Examination, a time when it does not pay us to ‘blindly accept any Propaganda’; for no matter the Source, there is more that has been kept away from us…and so we can be easily led astray – not only through our angers or resentment, but through our lack of true knowledge and half-truths.

So where is this most demonstrated…? by breaking down the presence of the contributing numbers we can see the pathway of these influences.

2012 – The first 2 represents the Couple or the Union – what do we attract, or repel – what becomes ‘attached to us’.
This becomes influenced by the number 0 = Spirit, or our Value System – what creates positive progress, both in our life as well as in the Expansion of our Consciousness.
Next, the number 1 represents the Self – how we see ourselves (our inner identity), and how we express this outwardly (a reflection of our ‘success/achievements’ in life).
The final number 2 represents our immediate friends and lovers – who and what we allow to touch our hearts – and how they influence us (our Circle of Trust, and our vulnerability).

When we examine all these together we end with an interesting statement: The year 2012 was an opportunity to examine Relationships – both intimate as well as those people and events which we have allowed to influence us. It was a year of ‘molding’ – either liberating us (through our own Inner Wisdom, clarity of thought, or connection with Spirit and Spiritual Insight), or binding us to a Lower Consciousness (by accepting external influences without much thought or deliberation).

Yet the year is not over…December – represented in our calendar as the 12th month, allows for a deeper insight into this relationship with people and events…have they been of benefit to our Path…or have they bound us to negative beliefs. Are we joyful in our perception of the Unlimited Opportunities of Life…or do we willingly embrace doom and condemnation? The very name ‘December’ comes from the root word “deca” meaning 10, numerically “the first step of a new path”.

When we add up 2012 (2+0+1+2), we end with the number 5, the number of Mankind, ruled by Mercury (the exotic, or the foriegn, travel, exploration, new opportunities, Man’s choices and influence). In its positive form it is joyful, progressive, adaptive and open to change…in its negative form it is irritable, restrictive, irrational and antagonistic…it also favors thieves, and theft.

The 12th of December 2012 = 12 / 12 / 12 reduces to 3 / 3 / 3 and adds up to the number 9 (Mars and conflicts) which represents the end of Spiritual Cycles, and the unveiling of it consequences (being made up of 3′s it is the influence of the ‘tribes’ in your life – religious/spiritual/social/political/familial). Now is your opportunity to be an individual. Think for yourself and become a source of Spiritual Insight, or enter the New Year – the number 13 – associated with strong superstition and prejudice.

While we all have strong influences in our Life, what matters most is our own Inner Radiance and Wisdom…are you a Divine-Human…or merely human…what you choose will determine your future year!!!

DECEMBER 2012 ASTROLOGICAL UPDATE

© 2012 - Reprinted with permission from Shining Lotus Metaphysical Bookstore Newsletter Dec 12

by Marci McCaffery

Astrologer
Marci McCaffery

SAGITTARIUS (November 23-December 21)

Key phrase:
I SEE

At worst we might feel as if everything is coming apart.  At best we align with the flow and open to the opportunities presented to us in this shifting field of cosmic energy

Well it’s finally here, December 2012.  After decades of ponderings, prophecies, speculations, and forewarnings, the most talked about time in human history is upon us. The world has not ended, but we do stand at the threshold of tremendous change. We have reached a crossroad in consciousness where our altered sense of reality has separated us from an unconscious past, to an uncharted future.  In retrospect, 2012 has been a year in which we awakened from our own illusions. Where we go from here is one of free will choice. We can stay with the status quo or bravely choose the unknown and move forward.

SAGITTARIUS
by Josephine Wall

This month, we are likely to feel more optimistic. The Sun moves out of Scorpio into the enthusiastic, forward-moving, fire sign of Sagittarius. This sign represents the search for truth and the perception of the higher mind to embrace the “big picture.”  Its energy serves to elevate the consciousness of the human vibration through the highest possible level of spiritual awareness. It offers the virtues of faith, hope, trust and vision to accomplish the impossible.

It’s by no coincidence that two major events occurred last month, delivering compelling messages of change, unity and hope. We watched as the East Coast braced itself for one of the most devastating hurricanes in US history. It was considered the second-costliest storms, only surpassed by Hurricane Katrina in 2005. When Hurricane Sandy hit, people took to the Internet to document the aftermath of storm’s horrific damage, death and destruction. For some, it was the only source of news and information following the storm. It brought people together through community and new ways of being. People continue to offer their generous support with heartfelt compassion, highlighting what truly matters; the unification of heart in the greater collective of humanity.  See random acts of kindness on Facebook 

How you can help.

On November 6^th, the future voted.  The momentum was set on “Forward,” as the majority opted for change. President Obama scored a decisive second term victory for four more years, signaling the irreversible triumph of a new 21st-century. His victory speech conveyed a powerful message of hope, inclusion, unity and possibility for all. He/We have much work to do collectively and individually move towards that goal. Only a can-do consciousness, held in constant vision of possibility will prevail.

Four planetary realignments are featured this month, including the Sagittarius New Moon which occurs on December 13^th at 21 degrees Sagittarius. We are encouraged to explore our spiritual potential and soul contracts to understand the meaning of “inner truth.” On the same day, Uranus, “The Awakener Planet”, makes a shift forward, ending past frustrations encountered during its five month retrograde cycle. Its significance suggests that it’s time to embrace something new. On the 10^th and 15^th respectively, both Mercury and Venus move into optimistic Sagittarius, restoring confidence and providing new opportunities for love.

On December 21, 2012, for the first time in 26,000 years, the Sun will align to conjunct the intersection of our Milky Way (the galaxy that contains our Solar System.) This date, recorded in the Mayan “Calendar,” has long become the focal point of end-time predictions.

The Winter Solstice on December 21, 2012, like all Winter Solstices is the darkest day of the yearly cycle. It represents the beginning of the return to the light and is considered an ending, but not the end of the world. The timing of this galactic alignment is significant because the “Great Cycle” resets to a totally new era, unlike the present one. It holds the promise that the end of one cycle is simply the beginning of the next. The orbit of our Solar System will align with what is called the “Dark Rift” in the equator of our rotating Milky Way Galaxy.  This forms a planetary configuration known as “A Yod”, called the finger of God, representing an aspect of destiny which appears to point the way forward. Its shape is like an isosceles triangle which is created when two planets make a favorable sextile to each other (a 60 degree aspect). The third planet is at the inverse midpoint, forming a quincunx, (150 degree angle) to the two planets in sextile, at either end of its base. A quincunx is a challenging aspect requiring difficult adjustments and compromise. Its energy demands practicality, suggesting that something must be eliminated, to allow for necessary changes to take place. Often described as “being between a rock and a hard place.” There is no backing down. We are compelled to take action and trust our intuition in the process. When this configuration is activated, very radical changes occur that are strong enough to affect the personality in a way that produces much uncertainty, unusual tensions and great unrest. The three planets involved include; Saturn in Scorpio and Pluto in Capricorn and the finger points to Jupiter in Gemini. All planets are at eight degrees which in numerology signifies power and transformation, suggestive of a rebirth.  This also represents a channel opening for cosmic energy to flow through the earth, cleansing it and raising it to a higher level of vibration. In Mayan cosmology, the Dark Rift is associated with a spiritual awakening.             

Things You Can Do Now

}  Think positive thoughts

}  Embrace change

}  Whenever it feels like things are too much – bring it back to your breath and breathe

}  Pray

}  Trust your instincts

}  Stay in Gratitude for all that is

}  Do good deeds for others without attachment to outcome

}  Forgive often

}  Take nothing personally

}  Get into nature as much as possible

}  Take time to do the things you love

}  Don’t obsess too much about what you can’t change

Happy Holidays! I leave you with this uplifting video on 2012. In gratitude, I appreciate your love and support during this past year.  Collectively, we can hold a vision for possibility to thrive in the coming New Year!

Copyright Stardirection 2012 All rights reserved 

Marcia McCaffery is an NCGR certified astrological counselor specializing in life purpose, career and relationship readings. She is also a Reiki master teacher, a spiritual advisor, and an accredited business/life direction coach with a private practice in the Denver area. She has a lifelong involvement with meditation, spiritual studies and the healing arts. She is a featured astrological consultant at Shining Lotus™ Metaphysical Bookstore To learn how these changes impact you personally, contact Marci atstardirection@comcast.net For free, valuable resources visit her web site at http://www.stardirectionastrology.com/

NOVEMBER 2012 ASTROLOGICAL UPDATE

© 2012 - Reprinted with permission from Shining Lotus Metaphysical Bookstore Newsletter Nov 12

by Marci McCaffery

Astrologer
Marci McCaffery

SCORPIO (October 24-November 23)

I TRANSFORM

The sign of Scorpio is often referred to as the most complex of the twelve signs in the zodiac. We can rely on the resilience of Scorpio’s transformative power, fixity of purpose and instinctual nature to get to the truth in all situations. The energy of this fixed water-sign, asks us delve deeper intothe root causes of the tough stuff.The regenerative powers of Scorpio imply the need to make changes that evolve the self to a higher plane.

On October 29^th, the Full Moon at 7 degrees Taurus, marks the last of the four power moons. This is one of the most creative Full Moons of the year. The combination of the practical and the emotional energies offer us an opportunity to bring matters that have to do with what is truly valued to a successful conclusion.

SCORPIO
by Josephine Wall

As we approach the U.S.Presidential Election and a new year, we are all hungry for information about our future. More importantly, we want to know how we will be personally impacted. I think it safe to say that many are not that excited about Obama and probably less so about Romney. Moreover, it is generally the candidate that engenders the most tolerance that defines the election. Enter the role of the trickster planet, Mercury, (messenger of the Gods) which plays a decisive role in every aspect of the elections, particularly in determining choice. Mercury turns retrograde on Election Day in the truth seeking sign of Sagittarius at exactly 4 degrees. What does this mean? Possible mayhem! When Mercury is retrograde there is the potential for uncertainty, delays, false starts, miscommunication, miscalculations and the need to do things over. Mercury is probably best associated with speech, writing, technology and the computation of numbers. When retrograde, it cancreate problems and glitches with data and communication. Remember the Bush/Gore 2000 presidential fiasco? Good ole Mercury retrograde was in the details back then. This time Mercury is in a conflicting aspect with Neptune at 0° and Chiron at 5° Pisces combined with a favorable aspect to Uranus at 5° Aries. This configuration adds fire to the mix. All points are retrograde, indicating a less than powerful position. Neptune sets the tone for general confusion and Uranus rules shocks and upsets. All in all, we can expect some questionable developments on Election Day.

Eclipses increase our instinctual reactions and serve to move us further along on our life journey. A New Moon (Total Solar Eclipse) at 21 degrees Scorpio, on November 13^th is one of the most transformational moons of the year. It signals a time of major endings and new beginnings. We can use the healing energies of the Scorpio New Moon to release past hurts and heal emotional wounds as we activate new beginnings. What aspect of your life are you ready to move forward? The Sabian symbol for this New Moon reminds us to use our power wisely.

A Lunar Eclipse (Full Moon) takes place on November 28^th at 6 degrees Gemini, highlighting the Gemini-Sagittarius axis where we are asked to question our assumptions. As we shift our perspective, we realize that everything is interconnected and “from this knowledge comes our spiritual relationship with the universe.” (Albert Schwieitzer)

Mars moves into an ambitious position in Capricorn on November 16^th creating opportunities to move ahead with our goals. Neptune ends its hazy retrograde journey on November 11^th, bringing us greater clarity and revitalized energy.

In gratitude, wishing you all a Happy Thanksgiving Holiday!

© Stardirection 2012. All rights reserved.

Marcia McCaffery is an NCGR certified astrological counselor specializing in life purpose, career and relationship readings. She is also a Reiki master teacher, a spiritual advisor, and an accredited business/life direction coach with a private practice in the Denver area. She has a lifelong involvement with meditation, spiritual studies and the healing arts. She is a featured astrological consultant atShining Lotus™ Metaphysical Bookstore To learn how these changes impact you personally, contact Marci at stardirection@comcast.net For free, valuable resources visit her web site at http://www.stardirectionastrology.com/

OCTOBER 2012 ASTROLOGICAL UPDATE

© 2012 - Reprinted with permission from Shining Lotus Metaphysical Bookstore Newsletter Oct 12

by Marci McCaffery

Astrologer
Marci McCaffery

In a year of accelerated change, it is important that we don’t lose ourselves in the highs and lows.  May we stay centered in gratitude and acknowledge the gifts in our lives. No matter how things around us may seem, we must remember that we are immensely powerful.  Fear is the opposite of love. When we focus on love, we become invincible to fear ~~Michelle Karen

This month we are advised to ground anything uncomfortable into the earth for transformation. The period between late September and early October may be considered a critical time, based on the intense concentration of planetary aspects. The aggressive, fiery Aries Full Moon conjuncts with Uranus in Aries and opposes the Sun in Libra, on September 29th. Imbalances and the need to awaken to our own collective shadow are highlighted. Pluto joins into the mix and forms an exact square at 7 degrees cardinal. Anyone with planets at 7 degrees of a cardinal sign (Cancer, Libra, Capricorn or Aries) or within a 5 degree orb will be especially sensitized to this impact. This is an enormously significant pattern involving two powerhouse planets that can usher in dramatic changes.

LIBRA
by Josephine Wall

Three significant planetary sign changes headline the month. Venus moves out of dramatic Leo into service-oriented Virgo, but not before making a conjunction with fixed star, Regulus, at 29 degrees Leo. Regulus, is the brightest star in the constellation, meaning little King in Latin. This may suggest that someone of national prominence may become of prime importance. Expansive Jupiter, ruler of Sagittarius, turns retrograde on October 5th for the next four months, deepening our ability to grow in consciousness on an internal level. Mars enters optimistic Sagittarius on the Oct 7th pushing the envelope for expansion. Saturn makes a planetary shift out of diplomatic Libra, into the emotionally introspective depths of Scorpio, beginning October 6th for the next two and a half years. Saturn in Scorpio highlights emotional inconsistencies between the ego self and the higher self through major transformation. Karmic lessons (Saturn) related to the desire nature and the lust for power (Scorpio) must be purified. Emotional upheavals due to crystallized mental attitudes must be dissolved.We can rest assured, knowing that we have Divine guidance in this process. We are releasing the energies of struggle and the negative past. Meditation, yoga and other introspective practices help to counter fear and restore peace within. Pay close attention to your dreams and visualize how it feels to function from a compassionate place, where the head and heart are integrated.

The Libra New Moon on October 15th suggests a need for balance in relationships. This is a good time to assess whether there is a reciprocal balance of give and take in our relationships. We are advised to relax into the deeper part of who we are, authentically (pure Spirit.) The ego self must surrender to the essential self, if we are to move forward together in Oneness. The last of the four power moons this year is represented by the Taurus Full Moon at 7 degrees, on October 29th. We are encouraged to lead with our gut and not from our minds. We are advised to value (Taurus) our inherent self-worth as we move forward in faith and trust.

© Stardirection 2012 All rights reserved

Marcia McCaffery is an NCGR certified astrological counselor specializing in life purpose, career and relationship readings. She is also a Reiki master teacher, a spiritual advisor, and an accredited business/life direction coach with a private practice in the Denver area. She has a lifelong involvement with meditation, spiritual studies and the healing arts. She is a featured astrological consultant at Shining Lotus™ Metaphysical Bookstore.

To learn how these changes impact you personally, contact Marci at stardirection@comcast.net.

For free, valuable resources visit her web site at http://www.stardirectionastrology.com.

UNCONDITIONAL LOVE CARDS

by Jody Schmidt

This easy-to-use deck of 35 inspirational cards serves as a wonderful tool in providing personal transformation and insights into the secrets of living an inspired existence. Influenced by our canine companions, principles such as thriving naturally as social creatures, loving unconditionally, prevailing in the present, and playing with boundless zest, remind us all how to live better and welcome into our lives the true gifts the universe offers.  Awaken your love for life with these inspirational cards designed to guide you toward living a more fulfilled life. What a better world it would be if we all consciously followed our dog’s lead!

Transform your life into an adventure filled with love and personal change – opening your heart for more compassion, forgiveness, appreciation and meaningful experiences. Unconditional Love transformational cards can help you realize your life is a precious gift, to be experienced in the present and shared with others. Use this deck as a guide and a way to foster support while inviting curiosity, play and wonderment into your life. Allow these cards to accompany you on your journey through life as your own personal coach and inner cheerleader. Your options on how, and when, to use them are as endless as your potential. These cards are inspired by observing our canine companions, gentle teachers living the true meaning of Unconditional Love.

How to Use this Deck – Shuffle the deck and turn it over so all you see are the back sides. You can select one card a day, or one a week, and consciously infuse the message into your life. Or, hold a thought or situation in your mind and pull a card randomly, and then ask your heart to provide clarity of its meaning. You could also arbitrarily pull three cards; the first represents the past, the second is the present and the third is the near future, and contemplate how the cards you chose integrate into your life. Another option is to divide the deck into three mini-decks, all with the same corresponding symbol. Unique only to the Unconditional Love transformational cards, are three symbols that resemble dog collar tags. Each card has one of these three symbols on it: a star, heart or circle, all of which serve as action items to enhance your experience with each card. If you feel you want to target one of these three key areas in your life (Play, Love, Grow), just select from these cards and set the others aside.

Accompanying Journal – Each Unconditional Love transformation card deck comes with a 50-page notepad. This adorable journal is a special place to capture authentic moments of awareness, inspiration and transformation. Record your observations, experiences and results to track your journey.

About the Author – Jody Schmidt holds a BA in Speech Communication and a minor in Psychology. Her experience blends 20 years in the corporate sector working with Fortune 500 firms, midsize growth organizations as well as start-up companies with her talents immersed in sales, recruiting, training, and Talent Acquisition Management. She is also certified as a Reiki Master and has extensively studied many other modalities including Healing Touch for Animals and The Reconnection. With an unwavering desire to seek greater understanding of human potential, living a more holistic life style, and honoring our bond with animials, Jody has spent the past 12 years immersed in exploring spirituality, expanded consciousness, personal awareness, self development and transformation, all the while still actively working in the corporate realm. She is compassionate about sharing her insights and teaching others about their own untapped potential and abilities just waiting to be awakened. To honor her passions divinely woven with a blend between corporate, alternative, and genuine love for animals, Jody created the Unconditional Love cards as a fun and uplifting tool for others.

SEPTEMBER 2012 ASTROLOGICAL UPDATE

© 2012 - Reprinted with permission from Shining Lotus Metaphysical Bookstore Newsletter Sep 12

by Marci McCaffery

Astrologer
Marci McCaffery

There are many changes occurring at this time within people and without.The energies affecting the Earth increase in their intensity as the Earth prepares to alter its vibrational resonance. This sudden alteration of the earth’s energy field is causing a great deal of physical challenges and imbalances within the body.  –  A message from Archangel ArielTo better adapt to these changes, we are reminded to make ourselves our number-one priority, giving conscious care to our body, mind and spirit each day. We can adjust to these waves of intensity by deepening our meditation and breathwork practices. Body movement through yoga, tai chi, dance, exercise, and qigong are also helpful. Vibrational and emotional release therapies are also highly recommended. The objective is to find a regime that works best, to reduce stress levels and maintain heart-centered connection.

As the transiting Sun moves into to the industrious, self-disciplined earth sign of Virgo, our awareness turns to health, work and finding meaningful ways to be productive through humble service.

The Virgo New Moon conjoins with Mercury, the natural ruler of Virgo. On September 20^th it forms an exact t-square with Uranus and Pluto. (at 7 degrees Libra, Aries and Capricorn.) indicating that non-traditional, intuitive ways of thinking may be the best approach.  The Sabian symbol for this New Moon at 24 degrees Virgo encourages us to nurture and watch over each other. Use this time to attend to details, get organized and make improvements accordingly.

VIRGO
by Josephine Wall

Pluto, the most powerful planet of transformation, ends its six month retrograde phase and starts to move forward on the 17^th.  Its energies are intensified, as it reveals our next steps forward.  Any major transitions that have been on hold since last April, slowly begin to progress.  The ongoing Uranus/Pluto square forms the second of seven exact squares on the September 19^th.  This configuration once again causes major upsets to the status quo. Evolutionary change is its mission. We are advised to choose love instead of fear. Remember to stay calm and breatheeeeee!!

The Fall Equinox, on the 22^nd represents time when day and night are equal, reminding us of the need for a dramatic re-balance in our world of extremes and between the masculine and feminine energies. (the Sun and the Moon).The Aries Full Moon aligns within a degree of an extremely powerful convergence with the Uranus/Pluto conflict on September 29-30^th. Our energies are directed towards personal challenge. All aspects of our consciousness that we hold in separation from the concept of “Oneness”  must be balanced. The Sabian symbol for this Full Moon reminds us that as we venture into new territory, we are guided and supported by invisible forces.               

The goal for this month is to use these strong energetic forces and increased perceptions, to flow with change, as we allow others to do the same. This will be a time to clear out old remnants of anything that holds us back, such as limiting beliefs, past memories, persons, or things.  There are no quick fixes, we must do the work. We are advised to love with detachment, by understanding that detachment does not mean disconnection.  All issues that block our light are resurfacing now for release. We are shifting to a higher vibration of conscious awakenings and truth.

© Star Direction 2012

Marcia McCaffery is an NCGR certified astrological counselor specializing in life purpose, career and relationship readings. She is also a Reiki master teacher, a spiritual advisor, an author and an accredited Conscious Change coach with a private practice in the Denver area. She has a lifelong involvement with meditation, spiritual studies and the healing arts. She is a featured astrological consultant at Shining Lotus™ Metaphysical Bookstore. To learn how these changes impact you personally, contact Marci at stardirection@comcast.net.

For free, valuable resources visit her web site at www.stardirectionastrology.com

CHANNELING KUTHUMI

by Sheryl Watson

The One Who is called Kuthumi (pronounced Koot Hoomi) is a Member of that Group of Beings Who oversee and guide the evolutionary development of Humankind on Planet Earth. They are, of course, non-physical Foci of Consciousness and are variously called The Elders of The Race, The Spiritual Hierarchy, and The Great White Brotherhood.Kuthumi is one of The Seven Chohans or Lords of The Seven Rays, which are Major Aspects and Attributes of The Creative Force for this Universe. In that role and responsibility, They transmute from a Higher Level through their Consciousness one of those particular Aspects for the benefit and progress of the sentient life on this planet. Kuthumi is The Chohan of The Second Ray, which is called Love/Wisdom and oversees the activity and global projects of The Second Ray Brotherhood Who work with this energy to promote the spiritual advancement of a laggard Human Race.

Kuthumi is also known as The World Teacher, having moved into that Position when the previous World Teacher (Maitreya) took a Higher Initiation within The Spiritual Hierarchy in fairly recent times. Kuthumi was the closest Disciple of Maitreya for a very long time. The Position of World Teacher is also called The Office of The Christ Consciousness in the “occult” literature.

The last incarnate lifetime of the current World Teacher was as Kuthumi Lal Singh, and Indian Kashmiri Prince of the 19th Century. Toward the end of that lifetime, He took The Fifth Initiation which is called The Ascension, and he became an Ascended Master of Wisdom in The Spiritual Hierarchy and chose to remain with the evolutionary scheme of Planet Earth (out of compassion) rather than moving on to other more extensive systems of evolution and experience.The following are a few of the more memorable lifetimes of The One called Kuthumi within the past few millennia:

• Egyptian Pharaoh Thutmose III (Menkheperre Reign: 1479-1425 bce)
• Egyptian Pharaoh Ramesses II (Usermaatresetepenre Reign: 1279-1213 bce)
• Pythagoras, the great Greek Initiate
• Balthazar, one of the 3 Zoroastrian Magi
• St. John the Beloved, the one closest to Master Jesus
• St. Francis of Assisi (1182-1226 ad)
• St. Martin de Porres (Lima, Peru 1579-1639 ad)
• Shah Jahan, builder of The Taj Mahal in India

In the New Golden Age upon Earth, Kuthumi will physically manifest and walk amongst Humankind as an Avatar of The Christ Consciousness and The Lord of Compassion, and He will anchor the virtue of compassion in The Collective Consciousness to remain for all time.

© Sheryl Watson 2012

Sheryl Watson is a Spiritual Teacher, Clairvoyant and Channel. She has over 25 years experience in metaphysics and has channeled for many years in the Denver area. Her channel is held at the Shining Lotus Metaphysical Bookstore on the 2nd Monday of each month.

LA VIE DE LA ROSE FLOWER ESSENCES

© 2012 - Reprinted with permission from Shining Lotus Metaphysical Bookstore Newsletter Aug 12

La Vie De La Rose Flower Essences are dedicated to supporting the transformation of human consciousness through inner development. We offer innovative products created to meet the current and future spiritual challenges of humanity and to support the self-healing required for spiritual maturation. 

Dr. Natalia M Schotte, founder & President of La Vie De La Rose, personally chooses the specific flowers holding the requisite patterns of consciousness to meet these spiritual challenges and healing requirements.

Flower essences are natural healing agents that work in the subtle energy system of the human body to create change. These changes in the subtle energy system are reflected in a person’s consciousness and life. Some flower essences are created to assist in physical healing, others to balance the mind and emotions.

The flower essences are taken orally (on or under the tongue) with the exception of a forehead application for infants and optional water infusion for young children. For our 1/8 and 1/2 oz. bottles, take one drop daily for general support; one drop up to three times daily to support resolution of specific challenges; and one dropperful (10-12 drops) for support during times of ‘crises’. For the 2 oz. bottles, take one dropperful (10-12 drops) daily for general support and one dropperful (10-12 drops) up to three times daily for support during times of challenge or ‘crises’.

In order to maintain the purity of this product, please avoid touching the dropper to anything (e.g. tongue, hand, etc.). In the event the dropper is contaminated, please rinse in running water before returning it to the bottle.

There are 30 individual La Vie de la Rose flower essences, each activating a unique pattern of higher consciousness, and 9 flower essence sets, each offering an integrated approach to specific aspects of Accelerated Spiritual Growth^®. To determine which individual flower essences or sets are most appropriate for you, use your intuition supported by the names of the flower essences, their purpose statements and the corresponding photos – available in La Vie de la Rose Flower Essences: Your Personal Guide, the box cards from our flower essence sets, the abbreviated statements in our brochure and on this website. Because these flower essences are created to assist us all in opening to a new consciousness that will unfold over an extended period of time, all the flower essences are of assistance. 

Any choice you make is correct for you at this time.

AUGUST 2012 ASTROLOGICAL UPDATE

© 2012 - Reprinted with permission from Shining Lotus Metaphysical Bookstore Newsletter Aug 12

by Marci McCaffery

Astrologer
Marci McCaffery

Leo (July 24- August 23)

Shift Happens

This month the Sun transits out of the emotional waters of Cancer, into the high-spirited, fiery energies of Leo. Courageous, creative, confident, proud, and playful, are some of the keywords used to describe this sign. Leo’s source energy is the heart, indicating that when our work is heart-centered, we act in creatively expressive ways, to “Shine our Light” as the magnificent spirits that we are.

Highlights for August include an opposing configuration between the Aquarius Full Moon and the Leo Sun, on August 1st. We are challenged to combine our personal agendas (Leo) with the collective goals of community (Aquarius). This is the third of four (“Power Moons”) this year.

LEO
by Josephine Wall

We are still recovering from the aftermath of last month’s Pluto-Uranus square, producing challenges and conflicts. Dramatic changes are reflected in our personal lives and on a global level. Economic collapse, social upheaval and intensified solar activities are some of the visible consequences of this powerful impact. On a personal level, we have two choices; to change or be changed. Uranus tells us it’s time for something completely different while Pluto indicates that conventional ways of doing things are no longer sustainable. This is the first of seven squares to arise in the coming months.It’s an energy exchange for the next six weeks as relationship oriented Venus transits from flirty Gemini to sentimental Cancer. Loyalties are attached to home, family and material gain. Security issues are likely to arise. Venus in Cancer moves into an opposing stance with Pluto in Capricorn mid-month. Relationship power struggles have the potential to erupt.

Mercury ends its retrograde journey on August 8th; restoring things back to normal. This follows several weeks of miscommunication dramas, delays in travel plans and electronic mishaps, resulting from Mercury’s mischievous retrograde antics. Mercury will remain in Leo until August 31st, suggesting “that it’s important to think with our hearts and act on our intuition.”

The New Moon on August 17th, at 26 degrees Leo, activates new beginnings, prompting us to explore our deepest creative potential and share our unique gifts with others. A helpful trine with Saturn allows us to build a solid base for our creative impulses. The Sabian symbol for this New Moon suggests “that our efforts will be worth it.”

© Star Direction 2012

Marcia McCaffery is an NCGR certified astrological counselor specializing in life purpose, career and relationship readings. She is also a Reiki master teacher, a spiritual advisor, an author and an accredited Conscious Change coach with a private practice in the Denver area. She has a lifelong involvement with meditation, spiritual studies and the healing arts. She is a featured astrological consultant at Shining Lotus™ Metaphysical Bookstore. To learn how these changes impact you personally, contact Marci at stardirection@comcast.net. For free, valuable resources visit her web site at www.stardirectionastrology.com

JULY 2012 ASTROLOGICAL UPDATE

© 2012 - Reprinted with permission from Shining Lotus Metaphysical Bookstore Newsletter Jul 12

by Marci McCaffery

Astrologer
Marci McCaffery

CANCER the Crab
June 22 – July 23
Key Phrase: “I FEEL”

The mood shifts from intellectual to instinctual as the transiting Sun moves out of Gemini into the sensitive waters of Cancer. Cancer’s tenacious, nurturing, intuitive qualities respond to life through feelings. Cancer innately rides the highs and lows of the emotional pulse, just like the waves of the ocean. In this society we are taught to dismiss our feelings and choose logic over intuition, and head over heart. However, the more we are in tune with our own emotional rhythms, the more we can flow through these accelerated times of unpredictable change. Where are you emotionally right now? Are you operating from fear or love?

July is a super-charged month, filled with planetary tensions. The transiting Sun directly opposes Pluto in Capricorn and squares Uranus in Aries, signifying projections, conflicts and turning points. This is the first of seven exact squares, beginning on June 29 at 8 degrees Aries/ Capricorn. What on earth does all of this mean? Pluto exposes all that has been hidden or denied, forcing us to face our shadow selves and own our power. Uranus uproots all that keeps us stuck, giving way to confusion, upheavals, break downs and breakthroughs. The thrust is for individualized self-expression and personal freedom. We are advised to stay in the present moment, moment by moment and follow our intuitive guidance.

CANCER
by Josephine Wall

Two planets turn retrograde this month; Uranus, the disruptive planet of sudden and erratic change, (July 13 to December 13) and communication oriented Mercury (July 14 to August 7.) Retrogrades always slow down and deepen our ability to process planetary influences on an internalized basis. The end result reflects innovation, originality, and necessary transformations and reforms. Mercury’s backward journey through the sign of Leo, presents the potential for unforeseen misunderstandings and misplaced dramas. Is that Ego speaking or Essence? Choose your words wisely and infuse creativity and courage into the mix. Those with Leo Sun signs may experience the strongest effects of this impact. The stage is set for powerful awakenings in our social conscious. As with all Mercury retrogrades, this is not a time to sign contracts or initiate new projects.

Mars, the planetary god of war, makes an uneasy sign change from Virgo to Libra for the next couple of weeks. Our ability to initiate action is problematic, since Mars is not in well placed in Libra. The warrior planet joins its fellow activators, Uranus and Pluto, in an intensely combustible configuration by mid July. This is a pressure cooker that has been building for months. The energy pattern is frenetic, violent, jolting and chaotic. The keyword is irrevocable change. Volatile weather patterns and increasing unrest in our global economy, politics and government reach a state of extremes. This marks a time period of considerable endings and inevitable new beginnings, as an old order passes.

The Full Moon at 12 degrees Capricorn on July 3 presents yet another energetic shift, forcing us to look at all that is demanding change in our lives. The New Moon on July 18 at 26 degrees Cancer highlights the need to stay present with our emotions, rather than repress them. Our minds, emotions and spiritual strength will be challenged. Meditation, self-care, yoga, massage/energy work, prayer, being out in nature and taking Rescue Remedy (Bach Flower Essence) help to reduce the intensity of these planetary influences. Remember to breathe deeply and maintain a constant vision of possibility and renewed purpose!

Marcia McCaffery is an NCGR certified astrological counselor specializing in life purpose, career and relationship readings. She is also a Reiki master teacher, a spiritual advisor, an author and an accredited Conscious Change coach with a private practice in the Denver area. She has a lifelong involvement with meditation, spiritual studies and the healing arts. She is a featured astrological consultant at Shining Lotus™ Metaphysical Bookstore. To learn how these changes impact you personally, contact Marci at stardirection@comcast.net.

For free, valuable resources visit her web site at http://www.stardirectionastrology.com/

FINE ART BY LINDA LOVE AND CHRIS BACHICHA

© 2012 - Reprinted with permission from Shining Lotus Metaphysical Bookstore Newsletter Jun 12

New Mexico artists Linda Love and Chris Bachicha have been creating beautiful objects for several years and are now offering these exquisite pieces through the Shining Lotus. Linda Love, an accomplished fine artist has produced many oil, acrylic, watercolor and multi-media pieces in the past and has contributed many mural masterpieces to spaces around the Albuquerque area. As a talented musician and professional artist, Chris Bachicha has been working with multi-media most of his life as well as oils, acrylics, watercolors, and stained glass.

THE RED WARRIOR multi-media mask. Measures 17″ high and 15″ wide. The mask is painted in a war paint style used most commonly by the Assiniboine tribe of northern Montana and southern Canada. Symbolizing the warrior spirit in all of us, the Red Warrior would be a powerful inspiration to live purposefully and authentically. This is a very high quality multi-media piece using leather, faux fur and stained glass.          $300

THE HUMMINGBIRD A wonderful multi-media depiction of a symbol of peace, love and happiness. Measures 8″ high and 5″ wide. Called “new world birds”, they are native to North, Central and South Americas. Ancient pagans held them sacred for their tireless energy. In Native American culture, they symbolize timeless joy and the Nectar of Life. Hang this piece in your home to remind yourself that your goals can be accomplished and you can find the miracle of joyful living from your own life circumstances.          $50

THE GREENMAN multi-media mask. Measures 17″ high and 14″ wide. This beautiful Greenman Mask is painted in shades of greens, yellows and browns with shiny, brightly jeweled eyes. Found in many cultures around the world, the Green Man is often related to natural vegetative, forest or nature deities springing up in different cultures throughout the ages. Primarily it is interpreted as a symbol of rebirth, or “renaissance”, representing the cycle of growth each spring. Some speculate that the mythology of the Green Man developed independently in the traditions of separate ancient cultures and evolved into the wide variety of examples found throughout history.          $300

AUTUMN multi-media mask. Measures 12″ high and 14″ wide. This beautiful Autumn Green Man mask is painted in shades of browns, yellows, and oranges with shiny, brightly jeweled eyes. The Autumn Green Man  is related to nature deities and spirits, and primarily interpreted as a symbol of strength, or “wisdom”, representing the cycles of the seasons of the Mother Earth. Autumn is also considered to be the preferred season of the Hindu goddess of learning and creativity, Saraswati, who is also known as the “Goddess of Autumn”.         $200

AJNABUDA multi-media mask. Measures 12″ high and 10″ wide. A very peaceful and beautiful depiction of the Buddha in a multi-media art piece. Adorned with a glass jewel at the Third Eye (Ajna) and Swarovsky crystals and magnetic hematite, this mask would be a grounding focal point (lakshya) in your meditation room or yoga studio. Usually, when one meditates, a lakshya is chosen on which to concentrate the energy (prana) and attention.          $200

INTENTIONAL CREATION OF REALITY

© 2012 - Reprinted with permission from Shining Lotus Metaphysical Bookstore Newsletter Jun 12

by Margaret Ann Lembo

We all have an opportunity to change our consciousness and create our reality every single day. How can we enable ourselves to deliberately create our reality? First, we must shift our vibrational field. We can create circumstances to help shake up our energy so we can change. When we consciously create circumstances, we have a smoother, happier life.

What are some of the ways to shift our vibration? There are a variety of ways to shift our vibration in order to be a vibrational match for what it is we want to create in our lives. Let me count the ways:

1. Clear out negative thoughts. Pay attention to the negative self-talk and then immediately replace it with a positive thought.

2. Decide what you want to create and think about what you want as often as possible. List every detail associated with the creation of the reality you wish to bring to fruition.

3. Take time to imagine life with that manifestation already in existence. If you can imagine, dream, visualize and feel a strong desire for it, it will be yours!

4. Carry gemstones or crystals with you. Put your intention into it by deciding that every time you touch, look or think of it, your focus will bring you another step closer to creating your new reality.

5. We may talk directly with God/Goddess or ask our Angels or Spiritual Guides to help us manifest what we want to see, feel, be, or create.

6. Attend a drumming circle, crystal bowl session or any session that would shake up your molecular structure. Sound and vibration creates, transforms and transmutes energy.

7. Take action in your life that is in alignment with making your desire a concrete reality.

8. Move into a space of allowing. Opening the heart to the Divine is an important factor in manifesting and creating reality. Focus on love and all good things follow.

9. Maintain a sense of gratitude. Be thankful for the many blessings that you already have in your life. 

Give thanks for the blessing in advance. Send blessings ahead to the new reality to meet you there in that not too distant future!

May we all remember and integrate the powers of magical manifestation that we possess. May we remember that we are creators of our own reality. May we create our world of Love, Peace, Kindness and Compassion.

Margaret Ann Lembo (Boynton Beach, FL) is a spiritual practitioner and owner of The Crystal Garden, a spiritual center and gift shop. Margaret Ann has trained hundreds of Crystal Healers. She is an aromatherapist and is well-known for her award winning Smudge in Spray and Archangel Raphael Spray. She is also the author and creator of Chakra Awakening and the Angel Gemstone Oracle Cards. For more than twenty years, she has led workshops and classes around the country. Her audio CDs (guided meditations and more) are distributed nationally. Visit her online atwww.margaretannlembo.com.