Honoring Lughnasadh--and a Goodbye

Ok, let's cut right to the chase. I've decided to shut down this blog. But it's actually a good thing! And it's fitting that I do it today, as a way to mark Lughnasadh. In the past, today was a time to gather in nature's harvest; now we instead reflect on what is manifesting in our lives as the year draws closer and closer to autumn. As I reflect in this way, I see that I'm moving more and more out of my spiritual closet and into the wider world. I'm also finding more outlets for my writing, and that's been a great experience. Since I don't really "harvest" in the traditional sense, I also like to think of this time of the year as one of nature's maturity. We've gone from new growth in the spring and have now arrived at full flower and maturity. And so this is reflected in my own life, too.

When I started this blog a little less than 3 years ago, I was also beginning a new spiritual path. I was insecure, unsure and just looking for an outlet. Now that I'm more confident and sure of my path, I'm emerging into the "real world," and so I need this outlet less and less. I was also searching for my own voice, if you will. For various reasons, I didn't know who I was or, at the least, didn't feel confident in expressing certain aspects of my life. I still have a way to go, but I do think I've found my voice now, both in spiritual expression and direction, and in my writing. Hurray!

Since my hiatus earlier this summer, I've been on a nice vacation, spent some time writing, and I've conducted one house blessing and another ceremony I created for high school graduations. In addition, I've been digging further into my family's ancestry and have found new connections--one of those is that 1 set of great-grandparents are buried less than 1/2 mile from my current home. So one thing I'm exploring more is my ancestors.

I do plan to leave this page up so that I can still connect with many of you from time to time. You have such interesting things to say and share! Just don't come here expecting to see anything new. But--who knows, I may revive this blog if the mood hits me again. I want to thank everyone who has read a post or left a comment; so many of you have encouraged me along my path, reaching out to share a common interest when I often felt isolated or tentative. Thank you, thank you, thank you!

In closing, I'd like to encourage you all to follow your heart, take chances and believe in yourself. This world is a wonderful place, and all it takes to see it is for us to open our eyes and look. At the bottom of this blog, I've included something written by Rumi that I think sums up what I'm trying to say. When my eyes finally opened several years ago, a friend showed me this poem, and it felt as if Rumi had been reading my mind. So I've repeated it here:

"The breeze at dawn has secrets to tell you.

"Don't go back to sleep.

"You must ask for what you really want.
"Don't do back to sleep.

"People are going back and forth across the doorsill where two worlds touch.

"The door is round and open.

"Don't go back to sleep."

Honoring Lughnasadh--and a Goodbye

Ok, let's cut right to the chase. I've decided to shut down this blog. But it's actually a good thing! And it's fitting that I do it today, as a way to mark Lughnasadh. In the past, today was a time to gather in nature's harvest; now we instead reflect on what is manifesting in our lives as the year draws closer and closer to autumn. As I reflect in this way, I see that I'm moving more and more out of my spiritual closet and into the wider world. I'm also finding more outlets for my writing, and that's been a great experience. Since I don't really "harvest" in the traditional sense, I also like to think of this time of the year as one of nature's maturity. We've gone from new growth in the spring and have now arrived at full flower and maturity. And so this is reflected in my own life, too.

When I started this blog a little less than 3 years ago, I was also beginning a new spiritual path. I was insecure, unsure and just looking for an outlet. Now that I'm more confident and sure of my path, I'm emerging into the "real world," and so I need this outlet less and less. I was also searching for my own voice, if you will. For various reasons, I didn't know who I was or, at the least, didn't feel confident in expressing certain aspects of my life. I still have a way to go, but I do think I've found my voice now, both in spiritual expression and direction, and in my writing. Hurray!

Since my hiatus earlier this summer, I've been on a nice vacation, spent some time writing, and I've conducted one house blessing and another ceremony I created for high school graduations. In addition, I've been digging further into my family's ancestry and have found new connections--one of those is that 1 set of great-grandparents are buried less than 1/2 mile from my current home. So one thing I'm exploring more is my ancestors.

I do plan to leave this page up so that I can still connect with many of you from time to time. You have such interesting things to say and share! Just don't come here expecting to see anything new. But--who knows, I may revive this blog if the mood hits me again. I want to thank everyone who has read a post or left a comment; so many of you have encouraged me along my path, reaching out to share a common interest when I often felt isolated or tentative. Thank you, thank you, thank you!

In closing, I'd like to encourage you all to follow your heart, take chances and believe in yourself. This world is a wonderful place, and all it takes to see it is for us to open our eyes and look. At the bottom of this blog, I've included something written by Rumi that I think sums up what I'm trying to say. When my eyes finally opened several years ago, a friend showed me this poem, and it felt as if Rumi had been reading my mind. So I've repeated it here:

"The breeze at dawn has secrets to tell you.

"Don't go back to sleep.

"You must ask for what you really want.
"Don't do back to sleep.

"People are going back and forth across the doorsill where two worlds touch.

"The door is round and open.

"Don't go back to sleep."

Taking a Break!

Well, I guess I'm already on a break since I haven't posted in about 2 weeks, but I do like to tidy things up--so, yeah, time for a blogging break. Maybe I'll even get to go to the location in the photo above!

The good thing is that I'm busy with lots of stuff, but I'm starting to stress (no, not me!). I enjoy posting when I can, so I'm just going to chill for a while until things calm down.

What am I up to, you ask? Well, I've had some extra editing/writing work on the side, and I have another house blessing coming up as "Rev. Riverwolf." Plus I'm heading for a week-long vacation in 2 weeks. I'm also ready to sell the old house, my niece is graduating high school--and on and on!

Thanks as always for stopping by, and I wish you and yours much joy and freedom!

Taking a Break!

Well, I guess I'm already on a break since I haven't posted in about 2 weeks, but I do like to tidy things up--so, yeah, time for a blogging break. Maybe I'll even get to go to the location in the photo above!

The good thing is that I'm busy with lots of stuff, but I'm starting to stress (no, not me!). I enjoy posting when I can, so I'm just going to chill for a while until things calm down.

What am I up to, you ask? Well, I've had some extra editing/writing work on the side, and I have another house blessing coming up as "Rev. Riverwolf." Plus I'm heading for a week-long vacation in 2 weeks. I'm also ready to sell the old house, my niece is graduating high school--and on and on!

Thanks as always for stopping by, and I wish you and yours much joy and freedom!

Working Away While the Gulf Burns

It's frustrating for me to be super busy while there are so many things I want to blog about! Like the recent oil mess in the Gulf of Mexico. Did you hear that the well is gushing more than 40,000 gallons a day! Sweet lord above--and Obama wants to open more drilling off the East Coast.

Oh well, no time to worry over that. I may be gone a bit but I'm here and doing fine! Until then, peace & light.

Working Away While the Gulf Burns

It's frustrating for me to be super busy while there are so many things I want to blog about! Like the recent oil mess in the Gulf of Mexico. Did you hear that the well is gushing more than 40,000 gallons a day! Sweet lord above--and Obama wants to open more drilling off the East Coast.

Oh well, no time to worry over that. I may be gone a bit but I'm here and doing fine! Until then, peace & light.

Time Out!

Work has really ramped up all of a sudden, so don't be shocked if I don't post for a while. That and I'm trying to get painting and yard work done at the old house so that we can put the baby on the market!

Be back soon!

Time Out!

Work has really ramped up all of a sudden, so don't be shocked if I don't post for a while. That and I'm trying to get painting and yard work done at the old house so that we can put the baby on the market!

Be back soon!

The Most Interesting Thing I've Seen All Day

Is, naturally, Lady Gaga. Here she is arriving at the Brit Awards (where she is changing her show to honor the late Alexander McQueen).

Once again, Gaga has inspired me. I love the way she constantly pushes herself to stay creative. I have plans tonight with friends, and so I'm going to step up the fashion just a hair. I mean, these things take planning! I could just throw on jeans--which is what I had in mind--but we'll see what else I can come up with. But baby steps...

Otherwise, work is work. Good news on the romantic front: Things with my partner are going really well, so stay tuned for more updates. We're still in the process of getting the house ready to sell, so bathroom walls are being sanded and primed in preparation for painting.

Busy day, too. I had hopes to carve out 15 minutes or so for a meditation (several things to explore!)--so maybe that will still happen.

Until next time, be good to yourself and love someone today.

The Most Interesting Thing I've Seen All Day

Is, naturally, Lady Gaga. Here she is arriving at the Brit Awards (where she is changing her show to honor the late Alexander McQueen).

Once again, Gaga has inspired me. I love the way she constantly pushes herself to stay creative. I have plans tonight with friends, and so I'm going to step up the fashion just a hair. I mean, these things take planning! I could just throw on jeans--which is what I had in mind--but we'll see what else I can come up with. But baby steps...

Otherwise, work is work. Good news on the romantic front: Things with my partner are going really well, so stay tuned for more updates. We're still in the process of getting the house ready to sell, so bathroom walls are being sanded and primed in preparation for painting.

Busy day, too. I had hopes to carve out 15 minutes or so for a meditation (several things to explore!)--so maybe that will still happen.

Until next time, be good to yourself and love someone today.

Fading from Darkness to Light

Whether you call it Advent or Solstice or even something else, this time of year typically is about light returning to the world. That may be Christ being born and bringing hope for salvation, or it may mean the wheel has once again turned and spring is on its way. Regardless, it's a hopeful time. I like that.

I also like this image. It was designed for a Christmas card by a guy in the U.K. named Johnny Baker. It feels wholly modern while still invoking something ancient and timeless.

Wishing y'all the best of the season.

Fading from Darkness to Light

Whether you call it Advent or Solstice or even something else, this time of year typically is about light returning to the world. That may be Christ being born and bringing hope for salvation, or it may mean the wheel has once again turned and spring is on its way. Regardless, it's a hopeful time. I like that.

I also like this image. It was designed for a Christmas card by a guy in the U.K. named Johnny Baker. It feels wholly modern while still invoking something ancient and timeless.

Wishing y'all the best of the season.

Be Back in a Few...

I'm going to have to take a break, dear readers. Lots to accomplish this week, so I gotta prioritize--especially if I'm going to avoid another meltdown like I had last week! Also, I'm getting ready for my weekend in Cherokee, NC, and I'm very excited about that. If I'm not back before then, I'll be sure to take lots of notes!

Best to all who wander by.

Be Back in a Few...

I'm going to have to take a break, dear readers. Lots to accomplish this week, so I gotta prioritize--especially if I'm going to avoid another meltdown like I had last week! Also, I'm getting ready for my weekend in Cherokee, NC, and I'm very excited about that. If I'm not back before then, I'll be sure to take lots of notes!

Best to all who wander by.

Send Me an Angel: My Last Shamanic Workshop

Things have been hectic since returning from the beach. Thought I'd have time to post something on protests in Iran or Chastity Bono becoming a man, but alas, 'twas not to be! I just hope things stay peaceful in Iran, and as far as Chastity goes, I wish her luck and peace. I met her once many years ago and thought she was a very friendly and genuine person. I just hope mama Cher is understanding!

Tonight begins the last of 7 shamanic workshops--and I'll also be ordained this weekend as an interfaith minister. The workshop itself will focus on the crown chakra, and what little I do know is that we'll focus on those "higher" energies, which some believe includes angels.

As long as they look like this angel above, sign me up!

So have a happy Summer Solstice, everyone. Get out and enjoy the sun and see you in a few days!

Send Me an Angel: My Last Shamanic Workshop

Things have been hectic since returning from the beach. Thought I'd have time to post something on protests in Iran or Chastity Bono becoming a man, but alas, 'twas not to be! I just hope things stay peaceful in Iran, and as far as Chastity goes, I wish her luck and peace. I met her once many years ago and thought she was a very friendly and genuine person. I just hope mama Cher is understanding!

Tonight begins the last of 7 shamanic workshops--and I'll also be ordained this weekend as an interfaith minister. The workshop itself will focus on the crown chakra, and what little I do know is that we'll focus on those "higher" energies, which some believe includes angels.

As long as they look like this angel above, sign me up!

So have a happy Summer Solstice, everyone. Get out and enjoy the sun and see you in a few days!

Riverwolf Is Sick

Guess I caught it from my partner--basically a sore throat, some coughing, aches and pains, and general malaise. Crap--and on Memorial Day weekend! I had plans to do some volunteer work today, but that got scrapped. Also wanted to wrap up some yard work. Oh well, it is what it is. I'm taking some medicine, doing some "healing" meditation and a few other esoteric thingies to help get my system back in balance. Send some good energy my way!

Riverwolf Is Sick

Guess I caught it from my partner--basically a sore throat, some coughing, aches and pains, and general malaise. Crap--and on Memorial Day weekend! I had plans to do some volunteer work today, but that got scrapped. Also wanted to wrap up some yard work. Oh well, it is what it is. I'm taking some medicine, doing some "healing" meditation and a few other esoteric thingies to help get my system back in balance. Send some good energy my way!

Shamanic Weekend Update On Its Way!

I know, I know, you're all wondering where the update is on how my weekend went. Well, it was interesting as always, but you'll have to wait a bit longer. Things are ker-azy 'round here right now. Plus I always need to let things settle in my head for a few days.

Besides, patience is a virtue. Not that this is directed to any reader in particular, especially not Dracenea, especially not her... ;)

I will say that, as usual, there were likes and dislikes. I found out one woman is bisexual. And when this is all over, yours truly will be a perfectly legit interfaith minister! (Debate amongst yourselves.)

An update is a'comin!

Shamanic Weekend Update On Its Way!

I know, I know, you're all wondering where the update is on how my weekend went. Well, it was interesting as always, but you'll have to wait a bit longer. Things are ker-azy 'round here right now. Plus I always need to let things settle in my head for a few days.

Besides, patience is a virtue. Not that this is directed to any reader in particular, especially not Dracenea, especially not her... ;)

I will say that, as usual, there were likes and dislikes. I found out one woman is bisexual. And when this is all over, yours truly will be a perfectly legit interfaith minister! (Debate amongst yourselves.)

An update is a'comin!