FROM YULE, TO IMBOLC: 2018 CHANGES:

As Yule arrived so too; it seemed, the “Virus of the mind”.

Already dealing with a number of family issues, the news that my Mother had been taken into hospital with conditions that required contradictory treatment, saw my emotional stability significantly stretched.

Along with processes promoted by my employer that taxed both logistical and practical delivery of expected service provision. I found myself collecting straws and rotating plates.

With my usual tolerance and recovery rate in a weakened state, it was no surprise trying to balance and address these responsibilities that lethargy, nausea, general ill-being and fatigue overcame me.

Whilst medication can provide a respite for the moment, pro-longed recovery and remedy require a more permanent form of treatment.                                         

At times like this, one looks to, and needs the strength and solace of faith to provide aid/assistance in order to endure. So at my lowest ebb, I sought such from that witch lies within.

Adopting the trait of my Arien star sign, I picked up Spartan shield and called upon my shadow guardians to take action against the personal invasion.

The reaction was almost immediate, and gradually as the calendar year turned, so did recovery, with the lead up to and time of Sabbat, the onset of change become apparent.

Some say it is coincidental, but for those holding true to their credo and power of elemental energy, there is opine to the contrary – and season’s change contributory.

Just as the Goddess wakes to breathe fresh life into land and starkness of winter’s chill begins to ebb, one can draw comparison with the self through the dispensing of Negative and utilisation of Positive waves.

This Imbolc for me more than the natural turn of circle. It saw advancement and elevation to a higher level of personal development - enlightening and challenging – a duty for those witch follow the Pagan way.  At this time of significant note embracing the now and discarding the negativity of the past, be it people, feelings and/or energy, to release upon ‘Imbolc breeze’- away from the present, to a place now past, is essential to one’s well-being. - New beginnings see opportunity, purpose and new hope/s       

This is a time when the emotion of the heart seeks the relationship of a strong and lasting partnership; especially for those in a state of lone and taxing position.

For those who yearn for such companionship, “hope springs eternal”

Similarly, I believe it is the desire to attain targets and objectives is more than a hope - it is a highly commendable choice.

Whether it is life, love and longevity of spirit, with such Positive ways, it is with this mind-set witch will see Paradise found.

.“Whist still the chill of Winter lingers, & icy breeze ’pon naked fingers,
One looks towards the turn of year, & change again begins to stir,
Refreshment to the body/soul, a hope for Love & Peace the goal 
As Terra starts to stretch and yawn, the wheel doth turn - cometh the Dawn”

An Ill weak

It is a rainy end start to the weekend, with the most positive thing to say  about it, is the fact that, it gives an excuse not, to creosle the fence -although one day soon, then the deed must be done. Monday sees the day of England Patron Saint (George). - though what he would feel at the lack of celebration? Disappointing is, most probably the word
Tuesday sees the stirrings of physical unrest and the symptoms of a slight illness, and though I like to think it is just tiredness, it is the sign of things to come.
Though Wednesday begins quite productively; with my input at the unit meeting being significant and productive in attaining a positive outcome for those whom I represent. Though by the ending on the day, I am beginning to feel the onset of migraine and upon arrival at home, make the the short trip up the wooden stairs, where blanket fair is going to be a play where I rest my head in darkness and silence - well I can but try.
Thursday see a further two Union meetings. With my early night alleviating most of my head pains, it is the sore throat, dodgy cough and general lethargy that I endure. Later in the evening I am joined by the younger of my two girls, who stops over,  and even makes me a cup of tea - Gee, I must be looking bad!
Annual leave is suitably appropriate; and indeed welcome, as I take Lennon's and Ono's advice in giving 'Peace a chance' and stayed in bed for the duration. Despite the best of efforts in self-medicating, the ailments of illness win the day and another uncomfortable day - I don't like being ill; the buzzing in the head, the pressure laying on the eyes, a nose both blocked and streaming, the cough and soreness of throat - gosh it's not a feeling good. With sleep periods measured more in minutes rather than hours, its proving hard to shake off and; more to the point, so darn inconvenient. All being "well", next week will see brighter days and happier times = Forever the faith    

Sunny days ago

A Good Day Sunshine to begin the week as I spend the day in the company of my Granddaughter. An early collection sees a drive out to the local countryside of Styal and Wilmslow. A short wander around the shops precedes the playtime of exuberance for both she and I. Leaving the comfort of the child 'Buggy' behind, it gives the opportunity to enjoy the early day Sun and greenery that Mother Nature provides on foot.
Off to the park we go, and with plenty of play equipment to try out, she is in fine form as she swings, slides, climbs and explores that which is there and keen to try out the abseil and other elements of 'older' usage (still there will be plenty of time for future adventures - of that I'm certain).
We wander down to the banks of the River Bollin; at respectful distance, and we watch as the dogs jump in and out of the wash, other children paddle and ducks paddle by. I explain, as we appreciate the flora around, the simplicity of nature's balance with the ow and ah example - with nettle and dock leaf. Though I mimic the action, I don't go so far as actually grasping the wildflower, now that would be unnecessarily cruel.
We stop for a small picnic of ham, cheese, fruit and Pringle washed down with juice before returning back to my home, where further pastime games are indulged. Far too quickly the time flies and I return her following a full day of fun = Good times
As the week rolls on, I am drawn to the curious going ons at the bottom of my garden. I pluck up the courage to look over to see fowl at play, with the erection of coops and pen for the 6 chickens recently purchased - at least there is no cockerel!
More gardening work to secure and treat the fence is required methinks,for around my house, there is a Fox about.
There is a Yin Yang ending to the week, firstly, the promise of contact meeting with someone is (I suppose unsurprisingly) still unfulfilled - though a posting upon the book of face of myself and eight young ladies brings back such good memories. As I tweet "There are some images kept in the memory which are special, and cannot be taken away from the heart, mind and inner soul"  = Good Times.
It is pleasing to see the photo and more than made me smile, though when a friend/lover "likes" my post I can't help but feel a degree of sadness upon former times and reflect on what might have been - ah well maybe in the next life.
A view of the 'Donnie Darko' film, I note the line from Grandma Death "Every creature living on this Earth dies alone" again gets me to thinking, time is something used to the full and not wasted, and maybe pride has been a downfall of past time and the clarion call should indeed be "Tomorrow is, another day" and things are only over and out if they are allowed to be - hmm  I suppose age plays a factor in risk taking, though 'age is just a number, outside factors may have influence, though we all have ; not so much 'baggage, but suitcases and back packs we carry along the road we travel. 'Better to try and fail, than not, and regret" and I've always thought I needed a soul-mate to complete my life, finding that special one is, however, sometimes a hope forlorn (Ever the optimist eh?)

HIPPIE: Connections or conflict? - REVIEW

Definitley a difference, although there are I feel connections of conviction and issues of environmental attunement. Thoughout my life I have held a conviction of conscience that has seen me stand against the normality of convention. It has seen ridicule and isolation; that is social status - although to be fair, there has been; though begrudging respect for this.
A child in/of the 60s, the Hippie movement was one which I grew up with and indulged in with vigour, for  freedom is, perhaps, best experienced as a youthful enthusiastic dreamer of optimism and drive. Having said that "60's children never grow old, for they creative mindset, and believe in the glory of one's individual soul" 
As an Arien, whilst this ideaology of steadfast commitment aligned with Protest and Protect; and for those who were there, the (frequent) over reaction to such was meted out with too aggressive response, it was for just causes. It demanded inner mental and indeed spiritual strength and character.
Spiritual embracement; it is said, not something that easily sits with an Arien, though in my darkest hours I have found comfort in the influence/s that are there in the aura. I embraced such and; upon reflection, have always lived my life with the basic principles of respect for nature, belief in the elemental influences and Lore of the past.
The universal possibilities that are as infinite as our imagination will allow - influence back though man-made, natural or even super natural means, are I feel 'Wonders to behold'. we just have to have an open mind to appreciate and end enjoy them.
I guess I muse upon the question, 'is the answer to quell the anger of Arien Hippie-ness, to embrace to spiritual persona of Pagan-ness, for to attain inner contentment'? a balance that sways with the wind of changes within society, along with media and corporate influences    
Though one can draw a degree of comparrisons, be they, 'Peace and Love, Save the Planet' and 'Freedom of the individual', even the traditions of Pagaganism have slightly different branches that grow from the trunk of it's tree of life, love on longevity.
The self-discipline for both is such, that I do feel a comparassion that can be drawn, just travelling along the same road, to the beat of a different drum?

A four day week

Watching a trio of 'Shrek' films sees me 'laughing out loud' I guess it's the 'Kid' in Billy?
A bright Bank Holiday Monday with one of my girls sees me catch up with the latest news and a case of pleasant company and conversation.
A work colleague; of astute thinking and ambitious learning, makes contact with me for information upon my faith for her college course work. I contemplate upon the most appropriate form of material for the task, for relating to the aspects of the subject matter with appropriate reference in a brief manner is difficult for those who immerse themselves into the credo of lifestyle. I dig out three books and some literature to aid and assist - for I am; it seems, always 'here to help'.
The four day working week goes along at a  leisurely pace and with ease quickly slips by - which is nice, and before too long the weekend is here.
Friday was a day/night when I had decided to be a bit social and had arranged to attend a catch up meeting with some ex-colleagues of a time before, though 'as does seem to happen' on these occasions, the event is cancelled. Regardless, I still make the trip to town and after sorting out some other business did make the rendezvous; just to ascertain if there be any other bodies who thought as I? -  Unsurprisingly, I find I am alone = lol. Still, If I had not have gone - I would not have known
Saturday liaison arrangements are made to take a short trip to the proposed site for my daughters (and son in-law to be) wedding reception. It is a site in serene setting, with picturesque views. Slightly back from the main track it is both convenient to reach whilst a good distance away from the city crowdings. The venue looks great, the staff courteous, helpful and respectful and the event countdown to the day seems a good deal more real.
The evening is spent with 'Alice' and 'Caroline' though without the usual addition of alcohol - for I need to be switched on, active and responsible for the next days date with my grand girl of energetic and indeed infectious sparkle

HEROES + HEROINES: - REVIEW

I am indebted to the website (http://krasskova.weebly.com/our-pagan-and-heathen-heroes-and-martyrs.html) for noting with reflective reverence historical; and indeed legendary figures whose courage and passion has seen them ostracised, ridiculed and with fatal intent been hunted down for their beliefs and conviction of conscience.
From this list I make note, and acknowledge the following:-
Sitting Bull: the Native American leader of the Hunkpapa Lakota Sioux tribe, most noted for his masterminding of the defeat of United States elite 7th Cavalry force at 'Little Big horn', was a spiritual leader who defended his people with principles passed down of simple traditions; including the infamous Ghost dancing. Given to afford assistance to others whose persecution had driven them to despair and near death, this Warrior chief was more a defender and protector than war monger - though in the end a martyr for his beliefs.
Whilst in the U.K. we had Queen Boadicea, a true Warrior Queen, who after suffering atrocity to her own and daughters bodies led her people of Iceni; along with the Trinovantes tribe to initial success against the might of Roman Empire in Britain; cultist of Andrasta the Romano-Celtic goddess of war; a patron goddess of the Iceni tribe she was a powerful leader and true inspiration for others who followed (and to whom the iconic Britannica is modelled upon)
Well that was "WAY back in the day" more up to date fellows of note include:-
Lady Sintana: (Candace Lehrman White: 1937-2010) Wiccan priestess, founder of the Ravenwood Church and Seminary of Wicca in NC,. In addition to being a centre for the study of Wicca, the Church also became known as a refuge for abused girls and battered women.
Merlin Stone: (1931-2011) professor of art history, sculptor, author of the influential book “When God Was a Woman.” The book led to many people to Wicca, Paganism, and other forms of Goddess-respectful worship.
Bronwen Forbes: (1963-2011): Wiccan elder, co-founder of Free Spirit Alliance, author and frequent contributor to Circle Newsletter and Witchvox.
Frank Chimes (Wulfmann):  (1955-2011) An Anglo Saxon Heathen and mystic, founding member of ‘A Heathen Thing.” With an unquenchable thirst for knowledge about ancient Heatheny.
Again I note the website of (http://krasskova.weebly.com/our-pagan-and-heathen-heroes-and-martyrs.html) for the inspiration to learn more about those witch went before us - education is the pre-cursor of any future development - Thank you for doing so you heroes/heroines - Methinks

April Springs

In a week that has seen the full range of seasonal climate, it seems April has certainly Sprung in action. The garden showed signs of activity with the appearance of squirrels, tits and a wandering Reynard. The countryside is; I'm glad to say, is never far away, Wyth in the Shaw.
I return to work and though that was a bit of a disappointing, it was pleasing to be greeted by the smile and genuine welcome from a Blue-eyed Blonde female of usually direct opine.
The atmosphere is generally warm and I wonder if it has to do with the managerial style of those who are absentees and the one who is in, being of fair assessment and respectful stature?
At home I receive the last of my three presentations regarding the benefits of Solar Panel instillation - The principles were set out, the ideology agreeable and the price I guess was worth it - however, not necessarily for me! An investment earlier in my years would certainly have been worthwhile; though a quarter century away, for someone whose bills(for a single occupancy) meant that it was not a good judgement call for to make. Usually I go with the instinct of my heart, though on this occasion, I have to cede that the call of the head that is more prudent :-(
A daughter's call sees me call around with her Mum (for I need some clinical control in my calculations)to discus her wedding plans - the "privilege" of a fathers responsibility is accepted - for which parent does not want the best for their child?
I sign up to be a 'Twit' with a similar curiosity that I had in enrolling onto the Book of Face. I find it follows an offhand comment made by a friend and upon my feelings "at the moment in time". It does afford the opportunity to, and allows access to a couple of sites of visual wonder (i.e. NASA), "Unusual" people (i.e. Yoko Ono Lennon) and other areas of oddity.
So; despite some peoples' perception - I am far from being a Luddite, and am willing to give most things a go ("if you always do what you always did, you'll always get what you always had")
Latterly, a sister of a good pal of mine made contact with me was a nice surprise. It was a friend from my schooldays, so when I calculated the last time we saw each other was 35 yrs+ ago, the word that came to mind was = Ouch! I guess it happens to us all - it is the way we choose to deal with age that ensures longevity of life ... MeThinks :-)