Seattle Area Pagans's topics - tribe.net

Palin, Spellcasting and Psychic Battlegrounds

2008-10-06T15:46:18Z

OK so I have been ignoring politics...because it stressed me out and I already know who I am going to vote for.

But..I caught Palin on the debates last night for a little bit before running off to my birthday dinner and I was...well, amazed.

There is something very magical and bad about what she is doing when she speaks. She is like a vipor trying to hypnotize it's prey.

I was laughing out loud at her 1950's practical, mom voice , her 1060's undone station wagon hair thing, her airhead spacey "dumb woman who stays in the kitchen that we can control - or fuck - whenever we really want to" tone ..... but my friend was freaking out.
He said "I'm scared. I'm scared. She's powerful."

Huh. But I had just been thinking that Biden was powerful.

So I switched over to see what he (my friend) was talking about and I saw it, too. She's...scary. But NO, I refused to go there. I will not be afraid. I DO believe in the resiliency, the creativity and the life-creating forces of human beings. The will and excitement to put our planet back in balance.

She wants you to be afraid. Afraid or comforted and and entranced. That's part of the spell. So don't be.

It DOES make a difference because
there is a war going on in the white house,
there is a war going on in Afghanistan and
there is a war going on in the hearts and minds of the people of the United States.

Every battle field yields massive repercussions.
What happens on the emotional/spiritual plane has direct response on the physical plane.
This is spiritual class 101. You know it so don't forget it.

DO NOT BE SCARED. CONTINUE TO BRING LOVE AND LIGHT INTO THE WORLD.
Tell yourself, "Even if the GOP is elected, I will not be afraid."

Add that with some Laughter at Palin and That is Your Counterspell.

It will help someone somewhere else that you do not know to feel the same way and vote accordingly.
I promise you, it's true. Love is stronger than fear.

>>>>> forward this widely <<<<<

posted in Seattle Area Pagans - 5 replies

The band, Pegasys at A Gathering Grove Aug 23rd

2008-09-13T15:02:05Z

August 23rd - Gathering Grove - www.agatheringgrove.com/- the band Pegasys will play from 6 - 8 p.m.
A Gathering Grove
2820 Oakes Street suite C one block north of the Everett Event Center and next door to Chopstix Dueling Pianos where they have fine prime rib (for after our show of course Everett, Washington 98201

posted in Seattle Area Pagans - 1 reply

calling out to our family

2008-09-12T17:44:56Z

My partner and I are selling most of our stuff to get a veggie bus. We are going to live in our yurt for the winter but we do not have a place to put it yet. We are looking for a place for the winter where we could do work trade to have a spot to stay for the cold months ahaid. We are gardeners and have plant we can add to your garden. (carrot, kale, Brussel Sprouts, leeks, Raddicio, cabbage, and beet sprouts) We live in Chimacum, Washington. We are asking for your support in helping us find our winter slumber land. We will either be moving out at the end of this month or Samhain. Thank you everyone.

posted in Seattle Area Pagans - 2 replies

Re: Is a Faith Belief a "Learned Thought Process"? Actually, religious faith is typically an immersion process. There are alternatives.

2008-08-30T19:34:38Z

Keywords : religion, social conditioning and social control, religious conversion as a primitive emotional reaction from childhood rearing, different psychological orientations leading to different spiritual practices, inner spiritual development

Jake on tribe "Crossroads of Religion"

There has been some discussion here of late of individuals who "suddenly found Jesus".
It is my belief that as little children we are "taught" to find such Dieties as Jesus,Allah and other Faith-based Dieties.
I remember sitting in"Sunday-Pre-School" in a cheery room in the basement of the Family Church at age three playing with building blocks with the faces of Jesus and other "fun" Biblical Characters on them and other toddlers,while the smiling Teacher droned-on about Jesus,Noah,the Ten Commandments and other "Cheery Aspects of The Christian Holy Bible".
Would I have known about Jesus without seeing his face on the Building Blocks in my hands and hearing this smiling Teacher tell me ALL ABOUT Jesus?
Would I have known about why we celebrate December 25th as something other than when "Santa Comes" without being told by my Mother and Sunday Pre-School Teacher it was Jesus Birthday? of course NOT.
ALL Religious Faith beliefs are a "Learned Behavioral Thought Process". We are taught as toddler's both the Faith Belief,and "whom" to love within it.
Any Thoughts on this one?

Re: Is a Faith Belief a "Learned Thought Process"? Actually, religious faith is typically an immersion process.

Hi Jake.

This is a most important topic in social psychology, but unfortunately it is too often approached in a trivial or narrowly preconceived way, so leading to a dead end. The simple, direct answer is that religion is typically a thought conditioning process, and not a learning process, not a developmental approach. And that ignores and casts away the interesting and important part.

Religious faith is typically a direct or indirect result of an immersion process. Someone who "suddenly finds" a faith object typically was brought up with a lot of exposure to that faith object in their childhood. So this is often a primitive emotional reaction, *not* commonly a conscious adult choice or path of individuation / personal development / higher consciousness.

I will frame this discussion by saying a few words about (1) Islamic culture and then about (2) transpersonal approaches such as Buddhism and Taoism, to show the very strong psychological contrasts with western religious culture, and (3) defining personal characteristics or perspectives.

(1) Islam

It is especially important to understand the basics of Islamic belief and Islamic law, not just the plain vanilla monotheism so often found in, say North America.

In Islamic countries, with populations totaling about one billion, there is no religious freedom. By definition. This is true even in so-called "modern" Islamic based states, such as Egypt. In Egypt, one must register one's religion, and this cannot be Hindu or Buddhist etc. It must be monotheistic only, and in Islamic culture only faithful Muslims have full standing in a court of law. Others are not citizens in the modern sense of equality before the law. In Islamic countries, Sharia is the cultural law, the social law, and to a great extent the national law.

The penalty for leaving Islam is, classically speaking, death. Or more literally, murder as a means of continued social control.

There are people born in Islam who leave the Islamic faith, but they either live in western countries or they leave Middle Eastern countries first. There was a famous case of a Christian convert in Afghanistan a couple years back. He received asylum in Italy.

There are two million Iraqi refugees abroad. They all fled religious violence and communal warfare, mostly between the two major branches of Islam, the Shia and Sunni. Although there is much physical and social violence in Iraq, it is still based mainly on primitive emotional reactions inculcated in early childhood and reinforced through the tribal clan system, which is all encompassing.

(2) Buddhism

A transpersonal spiritual practice such as Buddhism or Taoism is entirely different : it develops within a person as a result of inner reflection, not social demands and propaganda and coercion. It unfolds as a process of psychological maturation and personal individuation. The term Buddha dharma, translated as Buddhism, does not so much refer to a faith or devotion ( bhakti ) as it does to a commitment or discipline ( Sanskrit : dharma ).

Quite literally, Buddhadharma means "discipline of awareness". As a Buddhist spiritual doctor, I teach methods and pespectives for developing awareness. This is not really within the limitations of religion, because religious faith is by its nature limiting to both existential questions and personal pathways.

So in that basic sense, Buddhist teaching undoes religious faith and replaces it with an ethic, world perspective and personal practice ( of some kind or other ) which is centered on karma, consciousness and personal responsibility. Those are really the Big Three.

In such a system, there can be no place for a "chosen people" ( just people who choose ), no "personal savior" ( each person must work out their own liberation ), and no "final statement from on high", as in Islam ( instead there is an ongoing work of personal realization ). Such a worldview is therefore profoundly incompatible with western religion, although it is strongly compatible with a number of different paths in psychology, yoga, and so forth. It is definite, clear and yet at the same time very open-ended in practice.

This radically different perspective is clearly both deeply individual and at the same time strongly transpersonal in values and practice. It is the kind of perspective one finds not only throughout all the primary Buddhist teachings, but also in Taoism, another specifically transpersonal spiritual path.

Buddhism has developed and strengthened in the West WITHOUT really any social context whatsoever. And yet the numbers of western Buddhists are growing very rapidly in Australia and Western Europe, and many millions worldwide read books by the Dalai Lama.

So this is due to personal reflection, not social psychological immersion or personal upbringing among the muggles. And it develops as a personal individual path first and foremost, not as primary identification with a "faith community" or a culture of religious belief. As a developmental path is it necessarily fairly individualized, and typically very far from being a matter of group belief or indoctrination.

Many of those who come to Buddhism do so after having strongly rejected religion and religious faith in general. In such cases they do so from a more specifically psychological perspective, to work with their own thoughts and feelings. This is quite different from embracing a religious faith. For such people, Buddhism is not a religion, but an alternative to any and all religion.

(3) Defining personal orientations leading to different spiritual paths

To this I would add that there are some major defining personal characteristics or perspectives that lead people into different psychological-spiritual paths. Two that I find most important are
1) whole person / whole body practices, such as yoga, tai chi, etc.
2) magical sensitivity and orientation towards magical work, such as ritual magic and various kinds of pagan practice, which are often magical in their basic worldviews and methodologies.

Of course, there are others. But these are key. The western muggle monotheisms are known for And Defined By the absence of whole body practices and lack of magical sensitivity / training. Thus a person who seeks to engage a whole person and/ or magical spiritual path would have to leave muggle monotheism and find what they need elsewhere. Both (1) and (2) are strongly characteristic of Taoism and inner Buddhist practice.

In my case I do both (1) and (2). I do yoga and magic. When these are combined together from the standpoint of classical Indian yoga, this is known as "tantra". The term means "weaving" or integration or wholeness, and sometimes it means primordial being. All tantra, whether Hindu or Buddhist, is based on the fundamental unity of yoga and magic, on working with energy through mind and body.

K T, inner medical tantrika and dagger priest

posted in Seattle Area Pagans - 0 replies

Ganesh ( Ganapati ) the Hindu Buddhist Deity : practices references and transmission

2008-07-31T20:29:38Z

Ganesh ( Ganapati ) the Hindu Buddhist Deity : practices references and transmission

Keywords : Ganapati / Ganesh the Elephant Headed God of Classical India, Mantra and Praise of Ganapati, Deity yoga, Tantric empowerment, Overlapping Hindu / Buddhist mantra culture, Vedacarya Thomas Ashley-Farrand, Sakya Lineage and Sakya Monastery, Seattle Washington.

“To those for whom these village fires still have meaning:
Oh, may your own most beautiful Animal of Light come safely to you!”
from the Last Whole Earth Catalog

On 13 July in Seattle Washington a Ganapati empowerment will be offered at Sakya Monastery of Tibetan Buddhism. The guru bestowing this empowerment is the tantric master of Sakya Monastery, His Holiness Jigdal Dagchen Sakya Rinbochay. See www.sakya.org for more information.

For this reason it is timely and appropriate to provide some basic teaching and perspective on Ganapati, and in particular an esoteric Hindu Ganapati mantra and also a Sanskrit Buddhist praise of Ganapati. Many diverse teachings on this deity in Hindu form are available on the internet ( under both Ganapati and Ganesh ).

An excellent introductory summary for Ganapati / Ganesh is available online at
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ganesha

The Buddhist Ganapati is also referenced in the Tibetan Buddhist traditions of the Nyingma ( e.g. Longchen Nyingtik ) and Gelugpa lineages ( see practice texts for www.fpmt.org ). There is also Buddhist practice of Ganapati in the esoteric Buddhist Japanese tradition known as Shingon, which came East via China and not Tibet.

Briefly, Ganapati means Lord of the Troop, and Ganesh basically means Elephant Headed One. Ganapati is known by the title “Remover of Obstacles” or “Lord of Obstacles”. He carries or represents the enormous power of the Elephant. He is often accompanied by two female consorts Riddhi and Siddhi ( Magical Accomplishment and Spiritual Accomplishment ).

Ganapati is very prominent and even central in Hindu practice and is often evoked at the beginning of important engagements or projects, such as making a journey or starting employment, or beginning a meditation practice session. I have seen dance evocation of Ganapati at the beginning of a Hindu temple dance concert. Ganapati is one of the main practices of Hindu business people for success in their commercial ventures.

Ganapati is strongly associated with the “national spirit” or Mother India as well as her earliest roots. In the distant past elephants were used throughout India to clear land for agriculture, and also as war elephants. More recently, public Hindu celebrations were banned by the occupying British and the outlawed Ganapati ceremonies were brought forth, successfully, to rally India against foreign rule.

It is said that the long “History of India” was transcribed by the deity Ganapati as given by Rishi Visvamitra. Many of the key texts of Sanatana Dharma ( Hinduism ) were written down by Ganapati. So, this practice is a primary connection to Vedic Culture. Due to this, Ganapati is also practiced by students to help with their secular school exams.

Ganapati has a very ambivalent status in Buddhist tantra, the esoteric form of Buddhist meditation which relies on yoga, deity recitations and mystic practices in general. On the one hand, Ganapati is often considered unfriendly towards Buddhist practitioners in general, and propitiated or banished or subjugated so as to not cause problems. Thus, a subjugated Ganapati serves as the throne for the deity Mahakala in his Six Armed form. This reflects the fact that some but not all Hindu practice / culture affirms Buddhist teachings.

On the other hand, there are specifically Buddhist practices for Ganapati, as for other Hindu deities such as Shiva, Sarasvati and so forth. The Sakya lineage carries Buddhist deity yogas for the Hindu deities Uma Devi / Parvati and Garuda, as well as Ganapati. ( In Southern Buddhism, such as in Sri Lanka Theravada monasteries, it is common to propitiate the Hindu deity Visnu for outer or worldly benefits. )

More broadly, many Buddhist schools share with the Sanatana Dharma ( i.e. Hindu practice and culture ) a significant focus on Ayurveda, or spiritual medicine. The Buddhist deity Bhaisajyaguru, or Medicine Buddha, is a deity of Buddhist spiritual medicine and Ayurveda in both Hindu and Buddhist forms is more or less identical in practice, not just similar.

In the classical Sakya tradition, this Twelve Arm Ganapati is actually an emanation of Avalokitesvara, the beloved and universal Buddhist deity of liberating compassion. Thus, it is reasonable to view this empowerment as being a definite connection to Avalokitesvara and the general practices of Avalokitesvara.

It is also very important to note that with this ( or any ) tantric Buddhist empowerment comes the general set of universal Buddhist vows, such as the Ten Precepts ( rejection of harmfulness, theft, dishonesty, ill-will and so forth ), and the Bodhisattva vows. The Bodhisattva vows focus on active humanitarian service in the most broad and deep and long term ways, starting with rejection of limiting ideas such as racism, sexism, tribalism, and all cultural divisiveness.

For some basic teachings on Buddhist theory and practice, see the following at Asian Classics:
http://www.asianclassics.org/research_site/webdata/education.html

The Principal Teachings of Buddhism
Buddhist Refuge
The Vows of the Bodhisattva

For an excellent general introduction to Buddhist practice, with a focus on Buddhist tantra, see the following book by Kalu Rinpoche:
The Dharma: That Illuminates All Beings Like the Light of the Sun and the Moon, State University of New York Press, 1986, ISBN 0-88706-157-5

http://www.amazon.com/Dharma-Illuminates-Beings-Impartially-Light/dp/0887061575

This book is short, direct, accessible, classical and effective. It should be. It was transcribed as spoken directly to westerners by one of the greatest Buddhist masters of the last century.

To take the tantric Buddhist empowerment of Ganapati or any other is to take Mahayana Buddhist vows, as well as to become authorized to do magical kinds of practice, such as mantra recitation to develop the power of the deity. The point is that in this case, the Hindu/ Buddhist deity Ganapati is practiced within a classical Buddhist context, not otherwise. Thus the above mentioned Buddhist references are of central importance in this transmission and practice.

As a brilliant red deity aspect, Twelve Armed Ganapati is not only a remover of obstacles and disharmonious circumstances, but also a magnetizing deity, i.e. a deity that “warms up” social situations, and develops strongly positive interpersonal engagement.

On a yogic level, this deity ( in Buddhist deity yoga ) develops strength and power at the level of the navel point of the psychic energy body ( svadhisthana cakra ), although I cannot say more without transgressing tantric vows of secrecy. Note that the Hindu Ganapati is girded by snakes, representing kundalini energy, and is similarly associated with the energy at the base of the spinal column. All tantric transmissions are private, and their contents not to be discussed following initiation.

This is one of many specifically obstacle-removing diety yogas in Buddhist tantra. There are many others, but this one is definitely recommended for those who have a more Hindu-oriented background in culture and/ or personal karma. And as noted earlier, it is a connection to Avalokitesvara practice specifically, and to the outer Mahayana practices in general.

This can also be viewed ( speaking very unofficially ) as a connection to Hindu transmissions. ) For this reason I will now provide a specifically Hindu mantra for Ganapati, which has been confirmed. It is quite reasonable to say that on obtaining a Twelve Arm Ganapati empowerment, one may practice the following Hindu mantra as well.

Maha Ganapati Mantra
"Aum shrim hrim klim glaum gam
ganapataye vara varada sarva
janamme vashamanaya svaha"

Vedacarya Thomas Ashley-Farrand, from whom I have Laxmi transmission, has many introductory and also detailed teachings on Hindu mantra practice. See his website at
http://www.sanskritmantra.com/

The following is not an official representation, but I do have the Sakya lineage Ganapati transmission some twenty years back from HE Luding Khen Rinbochay. This Sakya initiation is for a Twelve Arm Red Ganapati, equivalent in many respects to the Hindu deity Ganesh or Ganapati. Many diverse teachings on this deity in Hindu form are available on the internet ( under both Ganapati and Ganesh ). The Buddhist Ganapati is also referenced in the Tibetan Buddhist traditions of the Nyingma and Gelugpa lineages.

From www.sakya.org :

07/13/2008
GANAPATI INITIATION
Offered by H. H. Jigdal Dagchen Sakya
Sunday, July 13
Time: 10:00 am
Location: Shrine Room
Suggested Donation: $30 Public, $25 Members
Translator: Dr. Jeff Schoening
Ganapati made the commitment to help all beings to uphold the 3 trainings—moral behavior, meditation, wisdom— and, in particular, to provide the necessary materials and provisions for practitioners.
He protects one from obstacles at the beginning of any enterprise and also helps to increase wealth and power for the benefit of the Dharma.
His Holiness Jigdal Dagchen Sakya, head lama of Sakya Monastery, was born in Tibet in 1929. He continues the great Sakya lineage which began with Khon Konchok Gyalpo (1034—1102). He received teachings of the unbroken Khon lineage, the Sakya Vajrakilaya, the Hevajra and the complete Lamdre Tsogshe, from his father, H.H. Trichen Ngawang Thutop Wangchul, the last Sakya throne holder in Tibet. He also studied with many other great Buddhist teachers, including Dzongsar Khyentse Chökyi and Dingo Khyentse Robsal Dawa.
In 1960, H.H. J.D. Sakya was invited to work on a University of Washington research project on Tibetan civilization which was sponsored by the Rockefeller Foundation. At the request of students, he co-founded with H.E. Dezhung Rinpoche Sakya Tegchen Choling, a center for the study of Tibetan Buddhism and culture. In 1984, the center became the Sakya Monastery of Tibetan Buddhism.

The following is copyrighted material from The Digital Sanskrit Buddhist Canon, at
http://www.uwest.edu/sanskritcanon/index.html
specifically
http://www.uwest.edu/sanskritcanon/Stotra/Roman/stotra30.html

The source text is “ Source: Pandey, Janardan Shastri ed. Bauddha strotra Samgrah. Varanasi : Motilal Banarsidass, 1994”.

This is provided as a necessary and specific demonstration that classical Indian Buddhist culture incorporated Ganapati deity yoga as a tantric practice, and not for other purposes.
Ga?esastotram

kharvam sthulataram gajendravadanam lambodaram sundaram
vidhnesam madhugandhalubdhamadhupavyalolagandasthalam|
dantodghatavidaritahitajanam sindurasobhakaram
vande sailasutasutam ganapatim siddhipradam kamadam|| 1||

herambah paramo devah karyasiddhividhayakah|
saibhagyarupasampannm? dehi me sukhasampadam|| 2||

ekadantam mahakayam lambodaram gajananam|
sarvasiddhipradataram gangaputram namamyaham|| 3||

vande tam ga?anathamaryamanagham daridrayadavanalam
sundaadandavidhuyamanasamalam samsarasindhostarim|
yam natva surakoyayah prabhuvaram siddhim labhante param
sindurarunavigraham paripataddanambudharahrtam|| 4||

uccairbrahmandakhandadvitayasahacaram kumbhayugmam dadhanah
presannagaripaksapratibhatavikatasrotratalabhiramah |
devah sambhorapatyam bhujagapatitanusparddhivardhisnuhasta-
strailokyascaryamurtirjayati trijagatamisvarah kuñjarasyah|| 5||

ganapatisca herambo vidhnarajo vinayakah |
deviputro mahateja mahabalaparakramah || 6||

mahodaro mahakayascaikadanto gajananah|
svetavastro mahadiptastrinetro gananayakah || 7||

aksamalam ca dantam ca grhnan vai daksine kare|
parasum modakapatram ca vamahaste vidharayan|| 8||

nanapusparato devo nanagandhanulepanah |
nagayajñopavitango nanavidhnavinasanah || 9||

devasuramanusyanam siddhagandharvavanditam|
trailokyavidhnahartaramakhvarudham namamyaham|| 10||

sumukhascaikadantasca kapilo gajakarnakah |
lambodarasca vikato vidhnarajo vinayakah || 11||

dhumraketurganadhyakso bhalacandro gajananah |
vakratundah surpakarno herambah skandapurvajah || 12||

sodasaitani namani yah pathecchunuyadapi|
vidyarambhe vivahe ca pravese nirgame tatha|| 13||

samgrame samkate caiva vidhnastasya na jayate|
vidhnavallikutharaya ganadhipataye namah || 14||

sriga?esastotra? samaptam|

Sarva mangalam! Siddhi rastu!

In partial fulfillment of vajrayana teaching responsibilities,

KT

posted in Seattle Area Pagans - 1 reply

Moon-Day Triple Goddess Belly Dance Classes In Seattle

2008-07-30T10:17:04Z

There's still room in the upcoming belly dance class starting on Monday, August 11th. Don't miss this opportunity to combine the beauty of dance with the spiritual affirmation of being a woman. When people ask, "what did you do this summer?", you'll have something interesting to show and tell!

"Belly Dance the Triple Goddess"

with Michele Cacano-Green
Mondays, August 11, 18, 25
6:00PM to 7:30PM

Each week we'll each draw a Goddess card in response to the energies of the Triple Goddess. These cards symbolize faces of the Goddess from all cultures, all mythologies, and all history. Find the ones that inspire you!

We'll focus one day on each aspect - the Maiden, the Mother and the Crone. By choosing a personal deity to align with, we'll gain insight into each of our current positions on our paths, and use that insight to help center and draw upon our own inner goddesses. The feminine archetypes have a beauty and power that can inspire and guide us on our journeys.

Further Details:

Maiden ~
~ centers on playfulness. What did you play & how did you dance when you were a child? Revitalize that part of you subdued by responsibility & stress & reacquaint yourself with your natural body movements.
We'll gently move beyond our perceived limits with yoga-style stretches & basic belly dance moves. Communicate with your hips! Learn hip accents & more, & punctuate the music with your body. Rediscover who you want to be when you grow up!

Mother ~
~ will focus on creative energy. Whether you birth a child, poem, garden, or business, you are using Mother energy. Tap into the physicality of this power through undulations, circular hip movements, slow & sensual arm movements. These bring out the sensual nature that exists within each of us. Build your strength while energizing your creativity.

Crone ~
~ brings together what you've learned with what you innately know. Crone energy is strength + joy = wisdom. Our bodies know what we need & the more we connect & listen, the healthier & wiser we become.
Guided meditative movement brings us closer to our own Goddess energy. These healing power rituals further exploration of dance technique for a unique dance experience.

Michele "Chela" Cacano-Green has been belly dancing since 1995, and teaching since '98. She is also a Licensed Massage Therapist, incorporating her knowledge of the body into her teaching.

We'll begin & end with yoga-style stretching (BYO Mat). Wear comfortable, stretchy clothing like leggings, bike shorts, tank-top, sports-bra, T-shirt... All ages, sizes, fitness & experience levels welcome, but sorry, guys, this is for women only. Each class of a series builds upon the other - the two series do not but you are welcome to take both for more experience.

Cost is $51 for the 4 1/2 hour series. To register, call Michele at (206) 852-5284 or email michelerebelyell@yahoo.com

posted in Seattle Area Pagans - 0 replies

Green Witch Summer Camp for Teens

2008-07-29T21:09:30Z

Hello all,
I have been offering Herbal Wisdom mentorships to girls for about 5 years now.
This summer I will launch a 4 day Immersion in Green Witchery for teen girls 14-19, August 18-21.
It is called Into the Wood. I am looking for help in getting the word out. I am excited about this offering.
The work I am doing with girls is quite powerful. Does anyone know any resources, places, groups etc.
where I could promote this summer camp? You can go to my website and see more information.
http://www.crowsdaughter.com/girls-herbal-wisdom.html
Thank you and Green Blessings, Julie

posted in Seattle Area Pagans - 2 replies

bioregional animism

2008-06-20T06:10:51Z

cascadians lend me your ear...

www.bioregionalanimism.org
http://tribes.tribe.net/bioregionalanimism?_click_path=Application%5Btribe%5D.Tribe%5Bb769fdf9-7c51-4158-97fd-ff3e5ae8cc47%5D
http://tribes.tribe.net/bioregionalpaganism

come join us!

posted in Seattle Area Pagans - 0 replies

Embodied Voice Workshop for Women, Seattle, With Sylvi Alli

2008-06-01T15:35:23Z

Singing used to be an important part of my life which I want to reclaim. There is a wonderful opportunity for women to explore the use of their voices with Sylvi Alli, who will be in Seattle from Berkeley, CA. This is a recent interview with Sylvi: www.paratheatrical.com/voicei...ew.html

SINGING OUR AUTHENTIC VOICES
Seattle Embodied Voice Workshop For Women
With Sylvi Alli

When: Saturday, June 14, 2008
Time: 1:00 - 4 p.m.
Where: University District, Seattle
Cost: $50 Pay by Pay Pal; payment accepted at the door
www.verticalpool.com/embodiedvoice.html

This embodied voice approach encourages a release
of tension and self-consciousness, and allows us to
experience our voices more authentically.

All levels welcome. Space is limited, so register early - Only 15 students max. www.verticalpool.com/embodiedvoice.html

www.paratheatrical.com/voicei...ew.html
Sylvi Alli: "Embodied voice" is, for me, a voice that is grounded, rooted, in the physical body. In my work, I have come to experience the body as a vessel for the voice to move through and resonate within. There is a noticeable difference in the resonance of a voice initiated from the belly, for example, and a voice initiated from their upper throat. This ties in with where one's awareness lies - are you singing/moving from the belly, or from the head? As a culture, many of us spend the majority of our waking lives "in our head". When the awareness moves further down the body, the vibrational quality of the voice deepens, producing a fuller, richer sound.

posted in Seattle Area Pagans - 0 replies

Website for British Druid Order

2008-05-10T04:41:57Z

The new link for the British Druid Order (BDO) website is: www.druidry.co.uk

Today, May 4th is the gathering of the Bards of Caer Pugetia at Volunteer Park near the band shell. Look for the gathering of people.
1 p.m. to 4 p.m. website for Bards of Caer Pugetia is http://silvercrow.com/druid/druid.htm

posted in Seattle Area Pagans - 2 replies

where are you enjoying beltane?

2008-05-04T00:39:20Z

taking off on a road trip on the 2 of may and would like to begin my trip before hand with a little good old fashioned debauchery any suggestions?!!!

posted in Seattle Area Pagans - 3 replies

Ravenna Ravine ?

2008-05-01T21:06:16Z

Did this happen today or is it this weekend? I have never been to the Beltane celebration at Ravenna Ravine and can't find any details about it. Anyone have the scoop?

Blessings!
Geofre

posted in Seattle Area Pagans - 0 replies

Armegarden!!!

2008-03-14T23:19:08Z

Why wait for the walls to come down and the bombs to fall? Start preparing now! Join this new tribe to create a self sustaining network of urban agriculture using nothing but little plots of land and communication!

From the Armegarden main page
"We are a group of urban gardeners in Seattle who want to share resources and ideas for the day we are left to fend for ourselves. The impending collapse of the oil culture will lead to food shortages and we will have the knowledge and seed libraries to feed ourselves and our tribes when it all comes down. Start your garden now!"

posted in Seattle Area Pagans - 0 replies

Merry Imbolc!

2008-02-04T03:48:01Z

Merry Imbolc to all!
As I write this, a big pot of potato and leek soup is bubbling away, The kids are waiting for their story from "Circle Round" and my wife is laying on the couch dealing with the aftermath of food poisoning. (Not my fault!) So, how did everyone else fair?

posted in Seattle Area Pagans - 0 replies

Re: Paganism and Suicide : the classical Buddhist teaching

2008-02-03T03:53:01Z

From tribe pagan
Re: Paganism and Suicide : the classical Buddhist teaching

Re Mama Gaea's question:
"According to your personal beliefs, what do you think happens if one were to commit suicide? "

It's not about my "personal" beliefs. As an individually trained Buddhist guru, I will tell you what the Buddhist teaching makes emphatically clear.

To kill oneself is a form of human murder, and it has unspeakably grave consequences.

Basically, if you commit suicide, you go straight to hell. It is almost impossible to retrieve a consciousness that has committed self-murder.

Try yoga and mantra instead. That would be a needed step and the beginning of a growth cycle.

Free your awareness. Live for that which is highest in yourself and others.

We in the West do not live under the domination or major threat of Communism, Fascism, or Islam, nor under the medieval Catholic Church You have outer and inner freedom here and now, if you will but use it.

K T, dagger priest and medical tantrika

posted in Seattle Area Pagans - 3 replies

Sacred Drum Circle Anyone?

2008-01-12T00:22:57Z

Anyone up for starting a sacred drum circle? All we need is to find a space and then bring our drums, rattles, bells, flute, didg....

I have 2 visions: which one do you like better? or both?

Vision #1:
- Everybody show up with all sorts of stuff to make music and food to share.
- We have a simple opening circle, burn sage to the directions, maybe have an intention for where we are sending our energy and then dive in.
- Closing would be a simple quiet space to feel all the juicy energy and maybe put names in the circle that we want to benefit from the healing.

No 'experts', no pressure, just simple listening and finding your own beat.

Vision #2: just like vision one but with an opportunity to explore shamanic relationships with your: totem animal spirit and/or teacher in the upper and lower worlds:

- Everybody show up with all sorts of stuff to make music and food to share.
- We have a simple opening circle, burn sage to the directions, maybe have an intention for where we are sending our energy and then dive in.
- I (or someone else trained in shamanism) set a simple OPTIONAL intention designed to help people journey as they drum or dance for the evening to establish communication with the spirits and get information or healing on a particular, personal issue.
- Perhaps when the "jam" finds it ending, we talk about the journeys people had. Perhaps we just keep drumming.
- Closing would be a simple quiet space to feel all the juicy energy and maybe put names in the circle that we want to benefit from the healing.

No 'experts', no pressure, just simple listening and finding your own beat.

posted in Seattle Area Pagans - 13 replies

Re: Pagans at war, like Druids for example

2008-01-02T19:01:14Z

Re: Pagans at war, like Druids for example
Re Sienna ( Pagan Village Tribe ):
"Why would a pagan (of any flavor) choose to volunteer in the military?"

One of the key Druid precepts ( according to my recent reading in historical surveys ) is
Die For Your Country.

Volunteering in the military is what Druids do to die for country, as when the British Druids were fighting the Romans.

The Romans destroyed a whole bunch of Druid universities, all of them in fact. This pisses me off, and I'm not even a Druid.

Hindus in their homelands fought like hell against the invading Islamists, and three to four million people died, according to very rough estimates. That was total war, and religious war. It's still going on.

Now you know.

K T, mage guardian

posted in Seattle Area Pagans - 0 replies

Please help our Marines help others

2008-01-01T19:52:21Z

I've posted this message from PDX Pagans because I think we could also do our part in this season of giving.
Thank you,
Otter

One of the officers of our Marine Corps League Detachment has a son serving his third tour in Iraq. He recently recieved the following e-mail from his son, Andy, and forwarded it on to the members of the Columbia River Detachment in hopes that we might be able to help. I am forwarding it to you in the most sincere hope that in the spirit of the season you will know who it can be forwarded to next so that Andy gets more than enough toys and school supplies for the youngsters in that war-torn country that they will never again doubt the generosity and caring of the American people.

I also happen to know that the Marines themselves are desperate for things to do during their 'down' time and would really appreciate things like footballs, frisbees, games, books, etc. which could also be sent to Captain Andy for distribution throughout the area (though not all items will go to only Marines, they are like that, what they get they have this annoying tendency to share!!).

Please, please, please - forward this to everyone you know. I have never asked for anything to be forwarded and wouldn't even know where to begin to promise rich rewards or dire consequences. I just know, that this is one way that you and I stuck here at home can really make a difference, half a world away!!

You can leave my name and I will answer any questions anyone may have!

Wendy L. Graves
drumwench1@msn.com

Dad,

FYI - If possible, please send toys and/or stuffed animals for the local
children. We have a bunch of contacts with the Marines who have outposts
in most of the towns (over a couple thousand square miles in our AO -
area of operations) and they can assist with the distribution. School
supplies are also well received.

Let everyone know anything they can provide is appreciated.

Thanks!

//SIGNED//
Capt Andy LaFrazia
557 Expeditionary Red Horse
Al Asad AB, Iraq
APO AE 09333

posted in Seattle Area Pagans - 1 reply

camp in Tuva

2007-11-27T05:54:13Z

Dear Friends

Thank you for your interest to our music.

Last summer we held a throat singing camp in Tuva.

We had 14 students from around the world - 8 of them were from the US, 2 from Australia
2 from Denmark, 1 from France, 1 from England.
After arriving in Tuva, the students spent 1 week in Kyzyl, the capital city.
They were able to see many tourist attractions, see a Tuvan shaman,
and attend the Naadym - National Harvest Celebration.

The students then went on to spend 1 week in the deep taiga, with members of the Tuvan throat singing group Chirgilchin,
learning various styles of throat singing, traditional Tuvan instruments, as well as the Tuvan language.

This summer, we are trying to get 2 groups to go to Tuva again, in either June or July.

Please let me know if you have any further questions.

Please check our photos made by Russell Roesner - our student.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/bertdanger/sets/72157602427847575/

Thank you
Alexander

www.purenaturemusic.com
www.chirgilchin.com

posted in Seattle Area Pagans - 0 replies

Monsieur Moustache Pageant - Seeking Contestants!

2007-10-24T18:54:22Z

A benefit for Seattle Cancer Care Alliance and recent bone marrow transplant recipient Nick Farina is seeking worthy moustaches and the men attached to them to enter as contestants for an "IDOL STYLE" elimination pageant. Borrowing from American Idol, Americas Next Top Model and the like, The Monsieur Moustache Pageant will use multiple rounds, a panel of judges and audience particilpation to determine who will be crowned Monsieur Moustache.

November 1st, 2007
@ Capitol Hill Arts Center
1621 - 12th Ave. (Pine and 12th)

Any interested contestants should register here: www.monsieurmoustache.org/user/register
More details about the pageant: www.monsieurmoustache.org

Below are the PAGEANT CATEGORIES & JUDGING CRITERIA:

THE 'STACHE - All contestants

* First Impression: Contestants will have their moment in the spotlight then join other entrants on stage for a group comparison.
* Grooming: This includes neatness, cleanliness, and attention to details.
* Overall Attractiveness: How well does the chosen style work with the face.
* Photogenic Quality: Judges will review a single photo submitted by contestants.
* Online voting score

THE TOTAL PACKAGE - 12 contestants

* Style, imagination, and originality: Judges look for versatility and imagination and a contestant’s ability to convey a "total look."
* Integration: Costumes should complement the moustache style.
* Fashion Sense: Contestants should pick outfits that reflect fashion and taste and demonstrate their ability to use color to enhance their natural coloring, appearance, and appeal.

THE TUG - 9 contestants

* Texture of the hair.
* Length and thickness: The amount of hair that can be grabbed.
* Genuineness: How well the moustache adheres to the face when pulled. Fake moustaches that fall off will be disqualified.

~ INTERMISSION ~

BOXER SHORTS - 6 contestants

* Objectification: How a contestant poses as an objectified male figure.
* Physique: Includes physical fitness and overall body shape.
* Presence: Posture, movement, grace.

TALENT - 4 contestants

* Quality
* Originality
* Creativity
* Successful Execution of attempted talent

SPOKESMODEL/PERSONALITY- 3 contestants

* Conversational ability in varied circumstances, with an emphasis on good diction, grammar, and enunciation.
* Self-confidence, sincerity, and integrity.
* Self-Projection: the ability to project one's personality before a crowd.
* Wit: the ability to think on one’s feet and respond intelligently and with humor.

SURPRISE FINAL ROUND - 2 contestants

* Contestants will not know the content of the final round until it occurs.

Any interested contestants should register here: www.monsieurmoustache.org/user/register
More details about the pageant: www.monsieurmoustache.org

posted in Seattle Area Pagans - 0 replies

Could you please participate in my survey on masculinity?

2007-10-14T09:18:16Z

I am a doctoral student seeking participants to complete a survey that explores the psychological experiences of being a man and how it influences your life. You must be a male who is 18 years of age or older

The survey will take approximately 30 minutes to complete and your participation is anonymous.

If you are interested in contributing to knowledge about how being a man impacts how you view yourself and others, please go to the following website: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.asp?u=218103339703

Thank you for your help.
Michael Franco
831.480.5180
masculinitystudy@yahoo.com

posted in Seattle Area Pagans - 1 reply

Gaia Consort's October 13th Vitus Dance Release Concert

2007-10-05T06:40:15Z

Hi Folks! We're happy to announce that tickets for the Official Vitus Dance Release Concert are on sale!

Saturday October 13th, 2007 8pm at the Russian Cultural Center, 704 - 19th Ave E, Seattle.
We'll have the full band and maybe some special guests too.

For those of you who haven't been to a show at the Russian Community Center, please note that it's a friendly room with space to dance, and space to sit as well, if you all are so inclined. It holds 212 people so it's fairly intimate as well. Tickets are general admission, with some reserved seats for folks who contributed at the Ecstatic Visionary level.

I think it's going to be a really special show - we get to play with the full band so rarely these days and the music really has evolved over the years. I'm looking forward to seeing you all there!

Advance Tickets and Pricing:

We REALLY would like folks to buy tickets in advance.
Tickets will be $19.99 thru SEPTEMBER 30, 2007
$24.99 AFTER September 30, 2007
And $27.00 at the DOOR.
Kids under 12 w/ guardian are $10 advance / $12 at the door. \

You can get them online 24/7 at http://www.ticketwindowonline.com/show.php?shownumber=1623

OR Call Ticketwindow Tuesday through Sunday 12-6pm at (206) 325-6500
There is an additional service charge of $2.25 to $3.25 when you buy on-line or over the phone. Avoid the service charge by buying in CASH at any of the four Ticket Window outlets (Three in Seattle and one in Bellevue)

Love to all! See you all at the show!

posted in Seattle Area Pagans - 3 replies

Talk Like a Pirate Day Gathering!

2007-09-23T15:46:38Z

Arrrrggghhh!!!! Come to the Jolly Roger Taproom and show us your piraty best! Arrrrrrrrrgggggggghhhhhhhh!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I and mine be arivin'n around 7ish! Arrrrrrrrrggggggggghhhhhhh!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

posted in Seattle Area Pagans - 3 replies

Greetings

2007-09-19T16:53:55Z

Hello everyone,

I am new to Tribe and just wanted to introduce myself. I am a former Christian who began studying Eastern philosophy, Hermeticism, and Kabbalah back in '93. I have always loved nature. I feel that my knowledge of astrology, alchemy, homeopathy, sacred geometry, tarot, and harmonics might make me a good candidate for being a modern druid. I look forward to making new friends here.

posted in Seattle Area Pagans - 1 reply

What book is this?

2007-09-18T20:03:53Z

OK you literary pagan folk...maybe you can help me out here. Tell me if you know what this book is:

I used to have a book which was "fiction" but the pagan author claimed the entire thing was channeling her past life. I am not very good at history so I cannot tell you what time is was in but the story was about a girl in a witch family in the country, being brought up in a group of family and friends who are all witches, discovering sex (and mushrooms) with her best friend, falling in love with a bard who came through town, being eventually captured by the witch hunters and then brutally tortured before she was killed.

Does this jog your memory? It was a beautiful, passionate, desperately heart-filled and well-written book with a very cheesy romance novel type picture on the front.

It is driving me crazy that I cannot remember the author or the name of the book, but that is pretty typical for me.. I loaned or gave the book away and can't even remember who to.

posted in Seattle Area Pagans - 9 replies

The President apologizes.

2007-09-05T19:31:40Z

http://www.au.org/site/News2?abbr=pr&page=NewsArticle&id=9349&JServSessionIdr006=j7t8c7acr7.app5b

posted in Seattle Area Pagans - 2 replies

RJ Stewart comin' to town

2007-08-20T05:02:01Z

If you are into exploring the magical realms of the fey, RJ Stewart is a pretty big and long-time teacher of Celtic mysteries. He has a 2-day workshop coming up in November.

www.spiderlinks.net/pages_Co...dges.html
www.dreampower.com

posted in Seattle Area Pagans - 0 replies

New to Seattle

2007-08-16T03:50:10Z

Hi i'm moving to the Seattle area in the next few days. I'm looking around for pagans groups in the area to make new friends and learn new things :)

posted in Seattle Area Pagans - 1 reply

Seattle Pagan potluck

2007-08-16T03:27:24Z

Hi, just wanted to let everyone know that the next pagan potluck will be Sunday, July 15 at Edge of the Circle books. I'll be providing plates and utensils along with drinks.
Hope to see you there,
Dart.

posted in Seattle Area Pagans - 10 replies

Seatle Pagan Potluck for August

2007-08-14T01:34:07Z

Hey everyone, it's that time again.
Just a heads up that the August Pagan potluck will be at Edge of the Circle Books, August 19th, 2 to 4 pm. I'll provide drinks and paper plates and cups. Bring what you want. Hope to see you there.

posted in Seattle Area Pagans - 0 replies

New collaborative project: The Earth's Voices are Heard

2007-08-03T05:38:50Z

The Earth’s Voices are Heard is a collaborative project that explores the meanings in inter-species communication. This project aims to collect as many experiences of this type of communications as possible- that of talking with plants, animals, etc. From there, we can then see the commonalities that emerge in the messages. Join us, and share your experiences!

Here's the tribe: tribes.tribe.net/tevah
Here's the blog: theearthsvoicesareheard.blogspot.com

posted in Seattle Area Pagans - 0 replies

Clan of the Triple Horses, 2007 Eight Winds Mountain Earth Gathering

2007-07-25T01:18:13Z

Clan of the Triple Horses
2007 Eight Winds Mountain Earth Gathering

Saturday, September 29, 2007

This event is a joint Regional Gathering of ADF and the Druid Network - co-hosted by the Sierra Madrone Grove and Clan of the Triplehorses Grove. This will be held at DIAMOND LAKE RESORT in the Lake Beach Fireside Cabin #24 which has a fireplace, deck and a barbeque.

For more info about the Gathering go to: http://home.earthlink.net/~tripleh.../id7.html

For additional information regarding Diamond Lake: http://www.co.douglas.or.us/countyinfo/dl.html

COME ALL!!!!

I'LL BE THERE FOR SURE!!!!

posted in Seattle Area Pagans - 1 reply

have no fear....christianity is as pagan as you want it to be...

2007-07-22T22:04:01Z

wow...best definition i've heard for the Bible..."astrotheological literary hybrid" ....this film is PHENOMENAL.....judeo-christian faith pretty much a rip-off of Egyptian and other surrounding spiritualities....and is originally astrologically-myth based....another beautiful metaphorical story of the world, lost to greedy vampires....

anyhow, here's the film...and there's a little more tacked on about current affairs: http://www.zeitgeistmovie.com/

posted in Seattle Area Pagans - 0 replies

Lammas Bardic Ritual

2007-07-16T16:07:10Z

Hi all,
If you have nothing else to do on Sunday, July 29 at 1 pm, please come join us at Ravenna Park for a Lammas Bardic Ritual . We will be sharing our harvest through personal song, tale, dance, whatever the spirit calls you to share..More information will be reveled by this weekend - exact location in the park, what to bring, etc..
I hope to see you all there.. it will be fun!!!
Blessings,
Johanna Moon

posted in Seattle Area Pagans - 2 replies

Tribe at Temple

2007-07-10T16:43:55Z

Just yesterday I ran into one our newest members, Maggy http://people.tribe.net/4bd20055-5093-4ee9-9676-f47f8d4211ff at Gaia'sTemple. Maggy, I am so sorry for not being more chatty(2 hungry kids in tow), which I usually am. I promise to talk your ear off next time. Geofre and David, were you there? I looked but, like I said to Maggy, I have a hard time with the 2D to 3D visual translation. Anyone else here make it to Temple?

posted in Seattle Area Pagans - 1 reply

Seattle-to-FaerieWorlds Coastal Caravan forming!!!

2007-06-13T15:08:37Z

Do you live in Seattle? Are you going to FaerieWorlds? Do you want to caravan down the coast? If you said yes to all of these, go to http://tribes.tribe.net/seafae/thread/a22853bf-e9ed-4ea3-87f0-6ca3a7ab7279

posted in Seattle Area Pagans - 0 replies

New Tribe: Playa Pagans.

2007-06-12T17:22:57Z

Migrating from the old Yahoo group ( http://groups.yahoo.com/group/playa_pagans/ ) to Tribe: http://tribes.tribe.net/playapagans

This group is to help Pagans, Wiccans, Druids, Shamans, and all those who follow similar paths to connect on the playa. Hope to see you see you there!

Hugs,
SistaWeotch

posted in Seattle Area Pagans - 0 replies

Gaia's Temple

2007-06-06T15:02:04Z

I was wondering if anyone in this Tribe attends services?
www.gaiastemple.org/
My wife and I took the kids (3 &1/2 and 7 months) to the Dec. service and it was wonderful! The service was truly inspiring and the music was great! I was also more than pleasantly surprised to see so many families with children there. Well, I hope to see some of you on the 14th of Jan.
Peace,
Otter

posted in Seattle Area Pagans - 4 replies

Welcome Newcomers!

2007-05-27T03:54:30Z

OK, as Tribe leader, or whatever, I am assuming responsibility of welcoming all newcomers to this tribe in this thread. If I don't welcome you for a week or so, don't take offense, I'm probably just working way to hard for not enough money.

Anyway, I would like you all to meet our newest member who has yet to introduce himself. http://people.tribe.net/c311f671-d4af-413e-832d-6b9f440a2e0e
Scott, please stand up and wave to the crowd.

posted in Seattle Area Pagans - 13 replies

May Pagan Potluck is this Sunday!

2007-05-14T18:19:13Z

Pagan Potluck is this coming Sunday, 12:30-3pm, at the Edge of the Circle at 701 E. Pike Street. It will be Taylor and my last potluck because of the move; we hope to be able to pass on the torch to someone else here so the potlucks can continue (and so we have another reason to come up and visit ;)

Anyway, this will be sort of a going-away for us, a chance to say goodbyes and such. Bring something edible for lunch--we've historically had a lot of dessert stuff, so if you can do something different, great! We'll provide the dishes and drinks. Please make sure you have a list of ingredients for whatever you bring so people with dietary restrictions know what they can and can't eat.

See you there :)

Lupa
http://www.thegreenwolf.com

posted in Seattle Area Pagans - 0 replies

3 weeks on Whidbey Island.

2007-05-12T02:45:17Z

Howdy, all. I'm heading off with the Navy for 3 weeks for some training. Wondering if anyone would like to take advantage of my absence and come live on the beach for a while. Yes, I live on the water and have an amazing view. I have a deck, private beach, BBQ, high speed internet, walking distance to the ferry and the free Island County Transit buses. I also have 2 kitties and a small doggy (sleeps most of the day) who would love to come snuggle with you.

Interested or know someone who might be? Please drop me a line!

Thanks!

Blessings,
SistaWeotch

posted in Seattle Area Pagans - 0 replies

Esozone, August 10-12 2007

2007-05-07T22:46:27Z

Passing on info for those who may not have heard yet....

Interested in occultism?
Are you free August 10-12, 2007?
Can you get to Portland?

You need to be at Esozone - http://www.esozone.com/

From the front page:

esoZone provides a map toward a new kind of culture that recognizes the truism of Stephen Dedalus' "History is a nightmare from which I am trying to awake." Unlike the doom and gloom of the so-called "Apocolypse Culture", esoZone draws on the radical optimism of the recently departed Robert Anton Wilson. While we all admire the work of the counterculture, Chaos Magick, our comic books heroes and the Discordian pranksters of "the good old days" we do not seek to venerate or even necessarily to emulate them, but rather to provide a road map into the future where we can create reality in such a way that makes sense to us. esoZone is futurist, in as much as it is a future-present oriented event where we root ourselves in the present while never forgetting that we are creatures moving forward in space-time. Designer realities are the personal chariot of travel into future and esoZone represents a collective road map (not the territory!) through the process of mutual interaction.

Featured speakers include Freeman, James Curcio, Bill Whitcomb, Taylor Ellwood, Lupa (me!), and a plethora of others. Taylor and I will be co-presenting our Kink Magic workshop, I'll be presenting on Animal Parts in Magical Practice, and Taylor will be presenting on DNA magic--and those are just a fraction of all that's going on over the weekend!

Tickets are on sale today--buy now for best prices! http://www.esozone.com/

Lupa
http://www.thegreenwolf.com

posted in Seattle Area Pagans - 1 reply

tattoos

2007-04-28T18:11:19Z

Is there anyone in town who is known for doing sacred tattoos? Got any recommendations?

posted in Seattle Area Pagans - 8 replies

The Pentacle is Approved!!!!

2007-04-26T18:04:56Z

The Pentacle has been added to the VA list of Emblems of Belief.

VA approved religious emblems:
www.cem.va.gov/cem/hm/hmemb.asp

National and international media are carrying various reports. Please
go to as many media websites carrying this news and add your comments of
support of this important victory.

Here are a couple of links to recent articles -

CNN: www.cnn.com/2007/US/04/2...ap/index.html

MSNBC: www.msnbc.msn.com/id/18274639/

posted in Seattle Area Pagans - 1 reply

The freedom of our health is at stake!

2007-04-25T14:33:42Z

I found this in another tribe and thought it important enough to cross post all over hell and back! Please sign the petition. We only have a short amount of time before decisions are made that will not only impact the livelihood of the thousands of alternative heath care providers, but also compromise the health and well being of millions more.

"Complementary and Alternative Medicine"

This is so important, please pass this info on and sign the petition.

I just spent three days reading, re-reading, researching and discussing the proposed FDA guidelines for "Complementary and Alternative Medicine" with two FDA attorneys. You can download a copy of this proposal for yourself at: www.fda.gov/ohrms/docket...0/06d0480.htm .

When I first heard about this FDA attack on complementary and alternative health care, I considered it another "Chicken Little" rumor. On further study, I'm appalled at the speed with which the pharmaceutical companies are implementing Codex Alimentarius in the USA. If you don't suspect the pharmaceutical companies control the FDA, you may want to research that further by visiting www.HealthFreedomUSA.org.

This insidious proposal is designed to redefine every complementary and alternative health care modality and product as "medicine." This has direct implications on the services and products provided by every alternative health care professional. There is no facet of complementary and alternative health care that is not affected. If the FDA adopts this proposal, all natural health care would be illegal even for medical doctors.

Essential oils, herbs, herbal remedies, homeopathic remedies, minerals, nutritional supplements, plant enzymes and vitamins are redefined in this proposal as "medicine." Very simply, medicine is under the jurisdiction of the FDA and, by law, only licensed medical doctors may prescribe "medicines." Anybody else who advises, advocates, counsels, distributes, markets, recommends or suggests anybody use "medicine" is practicing medicine without a license. This is a felony in the USA punishable by fines and incarceration.

Aromatherapy, auricular therapy, biofeedback, color therapy, homeopathy, hypnotism, naturopathy, neurotherapy, nutritional consulting, reflexology, sound therapy and wellness consulting are among the alternative health modalities being redefined as "Alternative Medicine." This subtle change of vocabulary from "alternative health care" to "alternative medicine" makes all of these industries subject to control by the FDA as medicine. Only medical doctors would be allowed to provide, prescribe and supervise the delivery of these services. Anybody else who provided any of these services would be practicing medicine without a license and subject to incarceration and fines.

That's the bad news. The good news is we have until April 30, 2007 to voice our opinion against this proposal to eliminate complementary and alternative health care in America. Almost 100,000 people have already filed their objection. According to Dr. Rima Laibow, medical director of the Natural Therapies Foundation, we need 50 times that many people to respond by the end of the month.

Please stand up and be counted. Go to www.tinyurl.com/2u7ghc and file your petition in support of natural health care, in support of complementary and alternative health care as we know it today. If you require more information, please visit www.HealthFreedomUSA.org or read the FDA proposed policy for yourself.

posted in Seattle Area Pagans - 1 reply

crosspost fom nwpaganfestivals: magical and healing empowerments in Seattle, May 6th and June 10th, at Sakya Monastery

2007-04-18T14:17:28Z

Namaste!

There will be two significant Tibetan Buddhist empowerments in Seattle at Sakya Monastery in May and June. ( See www.sakya.org )
They will be given by His Holiness Dagchen Sakya Rinbochay, a major teacher of the Sakya and also Rime ( Nonsectarian ) lineages , and the empowerments are open to all who have pure intention. ( That means no animal sacrifice and no destructive intention etc., plus a firm commitment to help all who live through both spiritual and ordinary means. )

These are esoteric tantric empowerments and as such are only as good as the teacher who gives them. I have studied with and received tantric transmission under many gurus from across Asia, and HH Dagchen Rinbochay is a real gem. I have been receiving transmissions from this Teacher since 1980, and am deeply grateful.

The first transmission is for a very magical form of the the Hindu / Buddhist goddess Tara known as Kurukulle ( in both traditions ). She is a a "magnetizing" goddess of power, influence, and also sometimes seduction. That is May 6th. This could be either of the New or Old School lineages of Indo-Tibetan Vajrayana Buddhism, since His Holiness has a broad range of authorizations, but I suspect it is of the Sakya school.

The second transmission is for Medicine Buddha ( Bhaisajyaguru Vaiduryaprabha ), a principal healing deity of all the Buddhist schools and of all Ayurveda, the Hindu / Buddhist system of spiritual ( and physical ) medicine. The date is 10 June. I have received this transmission numerous times and will be happy to receive it again. There are many good teachings openly published for Medicine Buddha. This can be expected to be of the form most typical of both the Nyingma and Kagyu Tibetan schools, which is somewhat different than the Gelugpa version.

More information is available from
www.sakya.org/VEI_events.pdf

According to this Adobe Reader format flyer ( see www.adobe.com for free Adobe Reader download ), there will also be separate teachings given at Sakya Monastery for these two empowerments.

Sarva mangalam. Siddhi rastu! [ May there be universal benefit! May there be yogic accomplishment! ]

Regards.

K T, mage guardian and medical yogi

posted in Seattle Area Pagans - 0 replies

Classes at the Edge, April 21 - Alchemy, Animal Magic and more!

2007-04-16T18:38:47Z

Come Walk the Edge With Us...

Workshops With Taylor Ellwood and Lupa at the Edge of the Circle
Saturday, April 21, 2007 2pm – 6pm

Seven Stages of Alchemy – Taylor Ellwood – 2pm – 3pm
In this workshop we explore the seven stages of alchemy: Calcination, Dissolution, Separation, Conjunction, Fermentation, Distillation, and Coagulation. Each step in alchemy is part of a process of refinement that is meant to excise impurities, both from the substance worked with, and from the actual practitioner. This means that the practitioner comes face to face with his own insecurities and issues, and through the process of alchemy, ends up refining hirself. In this workshop I will explain how I did a seven week internal alchemical process in order to refine my internal reality and open the way to better opportunities in my life. I will then explain how you can do this.

The Magical and Ritual Use of Animal Parts – Lupa – 3:30pm – 4:30pm
I've been working with animal parts both in my artwork and my magical practice since the mid-1990s. In this workshop I'll discuss the history of animal parts in magic and ritual from cultures around the world. I'll also go over modern concerns, including legalities, ethics, and getting in touch with the spirits of the remains.

Blue Magic: Making Money Work For You - Taylor and Lupa – 5pm – 6pm
A lot of pagans and occultists have the ingrained belief that poverty makes you virtuous, but we take a different tack. In this workshop we'll talk about the poverty myth and the beliefs people have about money. Then we'll discuss ways you can use magic to deals with thes ingrained beliefs as well as resources you can use to start learning how to make money work for you.

The workshops will be $7.50/person, or $20.00 for all three. Preregistration is preferred, though walk-ins will be welcome.

Taylor Ellwood is the author of Pop Culture Magick, Space/Time Magic and Inner Alchemy. Lupa is the author of Fang and Fur, Blood and Bone: A Primal Guide to Animal Magic and A Field Guide to Otherkin. They are currently cowriting Kink Magic: Sex Magic Beyond Vanilla and may be found online at http://www.thegreenwolf.com and http://www.kinkmagic.com.

posted in Seattle Area Pagans - 1 reply

<Cross Post> Seattle Pagan Parents Picnic

2007-04-08T03:47:18Z

This is cross posted (and edited down) from the Seattle Pagan Parents Tribe just incase anyone here has kids but doesn't belong to SPPT.

I would love to get together with all of you sometime this Spring. I think it would be a huge hoot! What say you all? I was thinking some time between Beltane and Solstice. That would put us around late May, early June. So, who's bringing the potato salad?
Peace,
Otterr

posted in Seattle Area Pagans - 0 replies

intro post from KT : Guru Padmasambhava as real live Gandalf, not as real live Sauron

2007-04-05T14:56:16Z

Repost from Chagdud tribe: Padmasambhava as Master White Magician ( Gandalf type ) Subduing Black Magic ( Sauron type ).

This is my introductory post to this group. It concerns a principal cofounder of "Tibetan" Buddhism, which includes a lot of sorcery ( for the right reasons, not the wrong reasons ). The following is meant to serve as an effective basis for authentic communication.

DUSUM SANGYEY GURU RINBOCHAY

Yes and no.

Re:
"I have had some interesting discussions with people about Guru Rinpoche. If you have read his life story in books like The Lotus-Born:The Life Story of Padmasambhava by Yeshe Tsogyal. There are stories of him living in charnel grounds, going into whole villages & slaughtering all the men & raping all the women as Rakshasa Demon. Subdueing [sic] demons & converting them to the dharma. I mean the guy was a mad man & a fighter not a pasifist [sic]. What pisses me off most these days are all these peaceful little buddha people who sit around doing mediation [sic] all day thinking that is going to save the world..."

Yes, Guru Padma mastered black magic. A case in point is the wrathful destructive aspect of Vajrakilaya which is used for psychic slaying ( "liberating" ) of demons. I have twenty three full Vajrakilaya authorizations, including two from HH Dilgo Khyentse. I work a lot in the area of wrathful mantras. Did seven million, including 1M Dorje Drakpo Tsal, 1M Troma/ Kali, 1M Vajrakilaya and so forth. For me this kind of practice develops psychological balance and harmony and a sense of personal integrity and effectiveness, not aggression and "madman" type sociopathy.

No, Guru Padma was not a black magician. Guru Padma was a White Magician, a tantric mahabodhisattva who taught the liberating methods of primordial awareness yoga, spontaneous presence and so forth which utterly transcend black magic. I have fifty five Padmasambhava mantras, about twenty five of which are from HH Dilgo Khyentse.

No, Padmasambhava was not a rapist. Padmasambhava practiced a responsible yogic form of heterosexual tantra with several consenting female students such as Yeshe Tsogyel. They became gurus, not victims!

No, Padmasambhava was not a mad man. The term "crazy wisdom" refers to unconventional behavior, not sociopathy or psychosis. The crazy unconventional wisdom he taught is in essence the Great Perfection, or Atiyoga. ( See book "Crystal and the Way of Light". )

I am not a pacifist. Neither was Shakyamuni, and neither were Padmasambhava nor Yeshe Tsogyel. But with great tantric power come great mahayana ( universal humanitarian service ) responsibilities. Pacifism as an absolute inflexible approach is incompatible with the Mahayana. In Mahayana it is a high priority to protect unarmed men women and children from sociopaths, radical Islamists and so forth.

Defending democracy and constitutional principles of free speech and freedom of religion can sometimes require principled warfare regulated by the statutes of the Amended Geneva Convention. Even Nobel Peace Laureate HH the Dalai Lama is not 100% pacifist. He has stated that waging defensive was against Hitler was a moral necessity. I agree, as would any clear headed and responsible mahayanist.

When people take up naive and trivially weak forms of pseudo-mahayana, they may think it means always turning the other cheek. But that is the culturally conditioned response of masochistic Christian faith, not the classical mahayana. The classical mahayana is to free humanity from negativity, oppression, and strife, both outer and inner. This includes the fighting arts and active defensive engagements such as wrathful protector mantras and Shaolin Kung Fu, which develop spiritual purity and strength.

You have introduced a difficult, complicated topic in public. I have tried to give a worthwhile answer based on many years struggle with ethical and karmic issues in Engaged Mahayana and Inner Warriorship. Not many Buddhists begin to take these vital topics seriously.

In summary, ethical self defense is no offense. If someone tries to rape a woman, the peaceful thing for her to do is break his arm and free herself from further suffering, if possible. This is in accord with mahayana law, which I teach as guru. It is also teaching mahayana to bad guys and those who most need to learn respect for mahayana. If a guy tries to rape a woman and she uses kung fu to break his arm, then she is a good teacher of practical mahayana, and that makes me happy.

Maybe Yeshe Tsogyel killed several Bonpo magicians, as the stories say. But that was in the context of reversing their psychic killing attack on her spiritual children, her "peeps". Neutralization through reversing black magic is always fair play, as long as those perpetrators who remain alive are allowed to grovel and renounce their negative approach.

Other than that, it's all about "scalable response". This is always in the context of the standard police motto "To Protect And To Serve".

I encourage you to read the book "Dakini Teachings" for more on ethics and tantra as taught by Padmasambhava. That will help a lot.

Also please note that wrathful deity yoga presupposes foundational practices like 100,000 peaceful long Vajrasattva recitations. Peaceful Vajrasattva is the basis for wrathful Vajrakilaya. As tantric bodhisattvas we master ourselves, not others. If these practices are used to initiate power plays, then there is real hell to pay.

GURU PADMA SIDDHI HUMmmmmmm....

Sarva mangalam. Siddhi rastu.

K T

posted in Seattle Area Pagans - 0 replies

Pagan Potluck this Sunday

2007-04-05T07:47:41Z

Hi again :)

The Pagan Potluck will, once again, be this Sunday at the Edge of the Circle (701 E. Pike St.) from 2pm - 4:30pm. We'll bring dishes and drinks, you bring something edible (and a list of ingredients for those with dietary restrictions). We have been rather dessert-heavy the past couple of potlucks, so if you can bring something that isn't quite so sweet, that'd be great :)

Thanks, and hope to see ya there!

posted in Seattle Area Pagans - 0 replies

Faeries' Oracle anyone?

2007-04-04T18:36:56Z

Does anyone here use the Brian Froud, Jessica Macbeth Faeries' Oracle on a regular basis? I've had mine for quite awhile but rarely pull it out. For instance,it sat on a book shelf for almost 6 months until last night. It was like seeing an old friend. We sat up all night getting to know all of the cards again. Any experiences, light or dark?
Peace.
Otter

posted in Seattle Area Pagans - 1 reply

Requests for the greater good.

2007-03-22T10:48:42Z

This is what I request to be brought to fruition this month, March 2007:

*Media artists/animators/Digital artists/film makers

*Painters/visual artists

*Land (private, camping okay, in need of healing and/or land work/planting)

*Drummers

*Meditators/healers

*Dancers

*Culinary artists :-P

*Those who feel strongly about the intentions of :
++creative collaborations,
++reclaiming our right as human beings to live successfully through the use of our
blessed talents and skills,
++and magic fyres with outdoor events in WA state.

Blessed be. May the universe bring us together for the greater good.

posted in Seattle Area Pagans - 1 reply

about the condos going in where Manray, Cha Cha, the Bus Stop, and Kincora's are

2007-03-06T07:24:14Z

Hey all,

This isn't exactly pagan stuff, but I thought the pagan community would be interested, since I'm pretty sure pagans like nightlife and good neighborhood planning as much as the next person.

Yes, six stories of condos are going in where these beloved bars (and Bimbo's Bitchin Burrito Kitchen) now stand. They are a block long, not very good looking, and the developer does not want any bars underneath his condos (he's been sued before for noise complaints - same developer that had problems with the Twist in Beltown). They are small and expensive condos, there are no rental units planned in the building, and the price of the retail spaces is doubling (from 14 to 28 per square foot).

The good news is that there still might be something we can do to make this less bad. The condos will go in, but we're early enough in the Design Review Process that we might be able to affect the final shape this development takes. I'll be talking about this, and showing off the plans for the condos at the meeting below. Please come, please tell your friends, and please be ready to write a whole lot of constructively critical letters.

POWHat* Neighborhood Association
Presentation and Public Comment Party
on the proposed development at Pine St. between Summit and Belmont (home to Kincora’s, Bus Stop, Man Ray, Cha Cha, & more)

TUESDAY, March 13
7-8:15 PM
Location: Capitol Hill Presbyterian Church
(corner of Harvard Ave and Howell St)

*POWHat: Pine-Olive Way- Harvard area triangle.

Want to stay in the loop? Sign up for the POWHat news group:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/POWHat-news

Copies courtesy of Capitol Hill Housing Improvement Program (CHHIP)

contact: Jen Power, jen.j.power@gmail.com

posted in Seattle Area Pagans - 0 replies

March Pagan Potluck

2007-03-05T22:29:40Z

On Sunday March 11, the Pagan potluck will be at Edge of the Circle from 2:00 to 4:30pm. Taylorand I will be bringing plates, cups, and utensils, as well as some drinks.

Please bring food or drinks, with ingredients provided so that people who have allergies can avoid any allergic reactions.

This event will be held at

Edge of the Circle Books
781 S. Pike St.
Seattle, Wa

Hope to see some of you there :)

posted in Seattle Area Pagans - 1 reply

I'm not in Seattle YET, but...

2007-02-13T06:09:13Z

I will be moving from Cleveland to Seattle at the end of May. I'm looking to make a few connections between now and then, because it's still gonna be a looong, cold winter in northeast Ohio before I get there.

So, merry meet and all that jazz!

-Morgan

posted in Seattle Area Pagans - 1 reply

Returning to my pagan tribe

2007-02-04T08:44:34Z

Hi everyone,

Like they say, "Long-time pagan, first time member!" Don't they?

I've been out of touch with my pagan tribe for too many years. Life, what're you gonna do? I like to think of my fellow pagans, and fellow science fiction fen (who're often both) as my "tribes," people with whom I can be completely myself and not worry about being shunned or judged.

On that note, I want to re-introduce myself. I've been consciously pagan since February 1987 (wow, almost 20 years!). I say "consciously" because I didn't know there was a name/label for it till then. It all started with reading the newsletter of the UU church, talking about CUUPs (Covenant of Unitarian-Universalist Pagans). I was like, Huh? What's that?

One of my sisters had already labeled herself a Druid, which the rest of my family thought was amusing... not in a bad way, mind you. My mother, back when it was legal to ask such things, used to put "Reformed Druid" for "Religion" on applications. Any way, knowing my sister had found this path, I was curious too.

I went to Tenzing Momo at the Market, and found "The Complete Book of Witchcraft" by Unke Ray and "Encyclopedia of Magickal Herbs" by Scott Cunningham, and it was a great new direction in my spiritual path, which was almost non-existent by then.

I was raised atheist, you see. When I learned more and more about being a contemporary pagan, I told my mother, Except for the deity aspect of this, we were pretty much raised this way, weren't we? And she smiled and said, Yes.

I was on a solitary path for a time, reading and learning what I could (some of which was from my father's own library, like "The White Goddess" by Robert Graves). I found out that some of my sci-fi con buddies were pagan as well, and was invited to join the outer circle (study class/group) of a local grove. The HP and HPs were quite knowledgeable and very sensitive, and I learned quite a lot from them, and had great fun with the other members of the grove, but the time came for me to move on in my spiritual path.

I again considered myself a solitary, using the label "witch," "pagan" or "Unitarian," depending on who I was talking to (we grew up going to the UU church in Portsmouth, NH, because Mom wanted us to have social exposure outside of school and neighborhood friends). I was looking for like-minded folks in the Seattle area to study with, not a significant other, and ended up meeting and ultimately handfasting/marrying a very cool guy named Raevun.

We were both handfasted and legally married in a Pagan ceremony in Renton, WA, but are now divorced.

While we were together, living in Renton, I finally answered the call to become a High Priestess, something I'd been resisting for some time. How does one refuse the Lady, after all? I'm dedicated to Brighid, and She's been patient with me while my spiritual path has digressed to other studies, knowing that some day I'd return to Her service. I've studied Tibetan Buddhism for quite some time, in the double aughts, but I'm moving back into "pagan mode" as I call it. I'm going to do a dedication to Lugh on August 1st (appropriately enough), and seeing as I am going into my baby Crone years, on Samhain this year I'm going to dedicate to Cerridwen.

But I digress. Any way, while Raevun and I were together, I did my HPs dedication to my Lady, and in turn initiated him as HP, and we in turn initiated members into our little group that we were calling Clan Sarsen.

We all pitched in together to make our Clan tools, which was great fun, putting our energies and work into each tool. I've still got our Clan sword, since my blood, energy and effort went into it (I helped forge and make it from scratch with my HP/husband). Raevun and I amicably separated, handparted as it were, and I asked for his blessing on finding another HP to partner with some day, and he was agreeable to it.

I don't really see Clan Sarsen as being "gone" but merely in another realm, waiting to rebirth once more, so I'm not averse to finding a like-minded guy to be HP if we can connect on many many levels (it's not a significant other I'm seeking, btw, but who knows what may transpire ultimately?)

My main reason for posting this today is just to say "Hey" from Federal Way, and I've been scoping out past threads. I'm still torn between Norwescon 30 and SMF over Easter Weekend. I've done the Lesser Mysteries, many many years ago, so technically I could go through the Greater Mysteries ritual, but I'm thinking about doing the Lesser again, simply because it's been well over a decade and my spiritual growth has changed considerably.

Bright blessings to all my pagan friends, both that I know IRL and online,

Kos aka Helen

posted in Seattle Area Pagans - 1 reply

Seattle Area Pagans's topics - tribe.net

Palin, Spellcasting and Psychic Battlegrounds

The band, Pegasys at A Gathering Grove Aug 23rd

calling out to our family

Re: Is a Faith Belief a "Learned Thought Process"? Actually, religious faith is typically an immersion process. There are alternatives.

Ganesh ( Ganapati ) the Hindu Buddhist Deity : practices references and transmission

Moon-Day Triple Goddess Belly Dance Classes In Seattle

Green Witch Summer Camp for Teens

bioregional animism

Embodied Voice Workshop for Women, Seattle, With Sylvi Alli

Website for British Druid Order

where are you enjoying beltane?

Ravenna Ravine ?

Armegarden!!!

Merry Imbolc!

Re: Paganism and Suicide : the classical Buddhist teaching

Sacred Drum Circle Anyone?

Re: Pagans at war, like Druids for example

Please help our Marines help others

camp in Tuva

Monsieur Moustache Pageant - Seeking Contestants!

Could you please participate in my survey on masculinity?

Gaia Consort's October 13th Vitus Dance Release Concert

Talk Like a Pirate Day Gathering!

Greetings

What book is this?

The President apologizes.

RJ Stewart comin' to town

New to Seattle

Seattle Pagan potluck

Seatle Pagan Potluck for August

New collaborative project: The Earth's Voices are Heard

Clan of the Triple Horses, 2007 Eight Winds Mountain Earth Gathering

have no fear....christianity is as pagan as you want it to be...

Lammas Bardic Ritual

Tribe at Temple

Seattle-to-FaerieWorlds Coastal Caravan forming!!!

New Tribe: Playa Pagans.

Gaia's Temple

Welcome Newcomers!

May Pagan Potluck is this Sunday!

3 weeks on Whidbey Island.

Esozone, August 10-12 2007

tattoos

The Pentacle is Approved!!!!

The freedom of our health is at stake!

crosspost fom nwpaganfestivals: magical and healing empowerments in Seattle, May 6th and June 10th, at Sakya Monastery

Classes at the Edge, April 21 - Alchemy, Animal Magic and more!

&lt;Cross Post> Seattle Pagan Parents Picnic

intro post from KT : Guru Padmasambhava as real live Gandalf, not as real live Sauron

Pagan Potluck this Sunday

Faeries' Oracle anyone?

Requests for the greater good.

about the condos going in where Manray, Cha Cha, the Bus Stop, and Kincora's are

March Pagan Potluck

I'm not in Seattle YET, but...

Returning to my pagan tribe

<Cross Post> Seattle Pagan Parents Picnic