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 Posted: Wed Nov 07, 2007 8:08 pm
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During the month of October we had a lot of exciting things happen in the guild...
On October 10th we, unfortunetly, had to add a new rule to our guild guidebook.
Quote: III Please try to keep bad/inappropriate language to a minimum (it can be taken in the wrong context over the internet). This doesn't mean that you can't use any cuss words at all, just be careful how/when you say them. The mods can/will edit out anything they deem inappropriate.
On October 22nd our 20k Post Party started. Over 240,000 in gold and prizes were won! You can check out our special party scrapbook to see all of the fun we had!
On October 29th our Samhain/Beltane celebration started. Here is our Sabbat scrapbook!
A few of the party games were such a success that we decided to move them to The Main Hall for you all to continue playing!
Truth or Fiction?
Corrupt Wish game
Would you rather...?
Thanks to our 'hired teachers' thread in The Academy we have a lot of new classes/discussions (and we're always looking for more new classes/discussions). Here's a list:
Check out some of our major discussions going on in The Main Forum and join in on a few of them. Some of the major discussions include: What is your birthstone?, What is the appropriate behavior for a Witch? and What do you believe in?
Coming in December:
- Be on the lookout around December 21st. We'll be have a party to celebrate Yule/Litha. Be sure to save up some gold for a secret santa type thing that we'll have!
- The establishment of a newspaper staff. If you'd like to be on the team, I'll need a sample of your writing. If you've written an article for the newspaper before, then you don't have to do anything. If you haven't written an article for the newspaper before, then you'll need to have something prepared for when we start asking for staff members.
- This is for all of you lurkers out there. We might be doing a bit of tidying up with the members list. This pretty much means that if you haven't logged on to Gaia at all for a certain number of months (it'll probably be 6 months, but we haven't decided yet) or if you've been a member for a certain number of months and have zero posts (this one will probably be 3 months, but again, we haven't decided yet) then you will receive a temporary banning from the guild. With the latter one, we will PM the person first before banning them from the guild.
If you are a lurker, but just never post, then please head on over to the sign in thread or the introduction thread and let people know that you exist and are very much alive! By doing this you also get rid of that big, nasty 0 on the members list. If you're unsure of where to find said members list to check your number of posts, then please click here. |
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Posted: Wed Nov 07, 2007 8:09 pm
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We had quite a few people join our guild in the month of October, so we'd really appreciate it if everyone could make the following people feel welcome:
The Great Lion, Starlace, [[deviously contagious]], Muffin Flakes, Demonic edumacation, Pieces of Mind, Blood_Thorn07, CaptainWeed096, infinite for a moment, XxX-Rose_Red_Vampyre-XxX, spoildrotten85, melbaby76, Capt. Kat, melonysatario, Rock Tumbler, Little Wendy, -xXGodslayer_RaiXx-, Fairy Pagan Goddess, onichigo, elaisa_angelic, sagnier, Hoshi Da Skippii, Zsa Zsa, XxLesbianaXAngelxX, Helios Apollos, too2sweet, Floory, amaya~tenshi, Dykebitch, Dark_Style, hexlin, Kalaundrea, hp_artist, xninjaxgirlx, K i t o k i i, XxBangbang.im.a.banditxX, Avalon Moonfire, xox_SKULLz_xox, Haji Le Chevalier de Saya, Kareena80, sekhmets_enigma, jazzycapricorn91, ih8u_leavemealone, Koojiraa, o0Pandalynn0o, Cactus Attack!
We'd also like to recognize everyone who had a birthday in October:
October 1st - - Airdweia, Elvish_Lycan, serena_shadow, XxPyro_SkullsxX, and SilverGreyWolf
October 3rd - - foxtailfairy
October 4th - - Wiccan_Black_Angel
October 6th - - Sona Pendragon and Fieryhexe
October 7th - - run.away.screaming
October 8th - - tabiatha
October 10th - - Nimue Ailinen
October 11th - - isidar_mithram
October 14th - - Artymesia, Asari-chan, baluk15, DehShadow-ness, ferdustheferocious, Kayez, Limitin Kumiru, Lus-cloud , pixie1821, Risika_Tiger, Romeo Rose, Sachi_x, sakura13322, Saniya_Blackrose, shivanti, SowiloWitch, Vampire_Aireanna, Sikhe, and virgo2591
October 15th - - Lanarah
October 16th - - Amendria and Nadreth
October 17th - - broken_tormented and [.Raiko.]
October 20th - - Meilos
October 21st - - [.Jill Valentine.]
October 23rd - - whitestar27
October 24th - - [Helmorana] / Helmorana
October 28th - - ~Bitter~Sweet~Insanity~
October 29th - - nicole_isahottie13 and The Pirate Kuei
October 30th - - Gwydion Pendragon
October 31st - - IMA_BI_hehehe and Rhyme Circus
Want to receive presents on your birthday? Post here.
We have a lot of very talented artists in our guild and this is their spotlight!
It's Magic by Magyc7.
What's that
buzzing in the air?
Most will never notice
and few will ever care.
It's magic.
What's that
in every living thing?
Only some understand the connection
and it makes them want to dance and sing.
It's magic.
What's that
which the gods gave us all?
It's in our spirits
but only witches heed the call.
It's magic.
The Rose of Lost Souls by Arthela.
She holds a Rose of pure black glory,
Amidst a sea of pure white souls,
A child sees the perfect black rose,
A touch of its divine glory,
The child falls away,
Into the sea,
The pain the child feels is never known,
Instantaneously the darkness closes in,
Pure black glory of the Rose,
Black Rose of the glory of release,
Release of the soul to the great beyond,
To young to know of,
The Rose of Lost Souls.
Circle Round by too2sweet
Dance now the circle round
to the spiral neverending
Joyful now feet on ground
to the beat our bodies bending
Centered now on the sound
to our mother we are sending
Peace now love we have found
to a heart in need of mending
Dance now the circle round
to the spiral neverending
Want your artwork (drawings, poetry, photography, etc) to be featured here? Then, contact dark_angel_32189 (Maggie) for more details. |
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Posted: Wed Nov 07, 2007 8:10 pm
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Each month we will have an article about a different herb. This month's herb is Apple.
Written by: Choir-Angel
The apple is a highly remarkable plant, in that there are so many uses for it. Not just medically or magickally either. The apple teaches us a good lesson, that we should share with others and open our hearts, for then we'll be open to receiving more. The abundance of apples on an apple tree is a lesson to give all we have with the trust that it will be replenished. The apples message is to celebrate what you have in life and its spirit is an aid to those who harm themselves with miserliness.
There are many medical properties of the apple. Apples are a natural remedy for the heart, bowels and stomach. A ripe and juicy apple eaten at bedtime will cure constipation. They even help clean the teeth and push back the gums so the borders are clear of deposits. The bark of the apple tree is a tonic and a stimulant, which helps bring down a fever. The crab apple is good as a cleanser and a detoxicant for both internal and external wounds. It helps to heal skin tissue, is an anti-flammatory and anti-septic, which attributes to its connection to beauty.
The magickal uses of the apple are commonly known for it has long been used in love spells, divinations, and healing. Within the apple you can find a pentagram. Cut it width ways and the shape is revealed in the formation of its pips. A simple love spell consists of cutting an apple in half and sharing it with your loved one. This ensures that you will be happy together. For healing, cut an apple into three pieces, rub each on the affected part of the body, and then bury them. Do this during the waning Moon to banish illnesses. The wood of the apple tree can also be made into charms for longevity.
The apple is ruled by the planet Venus and its gender is feminine. Some of its folk names are Fruit of the Gods, Fruit of the Underworld, Silver Branch, The Silver Bough, and Tree of Love.
Choir-Angel used the following sources for information:
http://www.whitedragon.org.uk/articles/apple.htm
"Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs" by Scott Cunningham |
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Posted: Wed Nov 07, 2007 8:11 pm
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Each month we will have an article about a different gemstone. This month's gemstone is Amethyst. This article was Written by: Arthela.
Amethyst stones color range from purple to lavender. This crystal is pointed and usually transparent. Its size varies from stone to stone.
The stone is found in Britain, Canada, Brazil, Mexico, Russia, Sri Lanka, Uruguay, East Africa, Siberia, India, and the United States.
This stone is quite common and easy to come by.
It is especially beneficial worn around the throat or heart. Relieves physical, emotional, psychological pain or stress. Amethyst cleanses auras and purifies negative energies, dispelling anger, rage, fear, and anxiety. Depression is relieved by this stone. It is also helpful in reducing over indulgence and breaking bad habits. This stones helps center spiritual energies. It enhances spiritual and psychic centers to strengthen spiritual gifts. When placed on the third eye it helps stimulate it helping with meditation and scrying. When used in meditation it helps focus thoughts.
It is also beneficial when placed under your pillow. When placed under the pillow it helps with insomnia caused by an overactive mind. As well as protecting against recurring nightmares.
Arthela used the following sources for information:
"The Crystal Bible" by Judy Hall
http://www.sedonawolf.com/Stone.htm
http://www.vernalspirit.com/gemstones/gem_meanings.htm
http://www.newagedirectory.com/cry/crystal_picture.htm |
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Posted: Sat Nov 10, 2007 7:18 pm
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Each month we will have a featured God and a featured Goddess. This month, we will talk about Persephone and Hades. This article was Written by: Arthela.
Persephone is the daughter of Zeus and Demeter. She is called Proserpine be the Romans. Her name means something along the lines of “she who destroys light”. She is also referred to as Kore meaning "the Maiden". She is the goddess of spring growth. After her abduction by Hades, she became his wife and queen of his domain, the Underworld. She is bound to the Underworld due to eating pomegranate seeds while she is there. So she spends four months of the year there with him and the rest of the year with her mother. She is also the goddess of grain seed, curses, necromancy, ghostly visitations, passage to Elysium and reincarnation. She is the mistress of the Erinyes. She is often depicted as a young goddess holding sheafs of grain and a flaming torch. Asphodel is sacred to her.
Hades is the son of Cronus and Rhea, brother of Zeus. He is called Dis or Pluto by the Romans. He is also called Clymenus meaning "notorious", Eubuleus meaning "well guessing", and Polydegmon meaning "who receives many". He is the king of the Underworld and of wealth. As the king of the Underworld, he is the god of the dead, not the god of death. He is the god of wealth due to precious metals mined from the earth. He abducted Persephone by coming out of a crack in the earth near where she was picking flowers. He is also the god of funeral rites, mourning, necromancy, ghostly visitations, curses, Earth’s fertility, mining, and precious metals. He is the master of the Erinyes and dreams. He is often depicted as a dark-bearded, regal god enthroned in the underworld, holding a bird tipped scepter or as a giver of wealth, pouring fertility from a cornucopia. The narcissus and cypress are sacred to him.
Arthela used the following sources for information:
http://www.pantheon.org/articles/p/persephone.html
http://www.pantheon.org/articles/h/hades.html
http://www.desy.de/gna/interpedia/greek_myth/olympian.html#Hades
http://www.desy.de/gna/interpedia/greek_myth/lesserorgod.html#Persephone
http://www.theoi.com/Khthonios/Haides.html
http://www.theoi.com/Khthonios/Persephone.html |
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Posted: Sat Nov 10, 2007 7:19 pm
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Each month we will give you guys some spells that you can try at home! This month we'll be giving you some Elemental spells, one for each of the four elements!
Earth: House Plant Blessing
This is not intended for use with a cactus.
"Plants grown in the house are entirely dependent upon their caretakers for their lives. This blessing, when properly performed, will ensure that the plant thrives. Be certain that the plant receives the proper amount of light, water, and fertilizer at the recommended times. You will need:
One potted houseplant
One pencil or green pen
One 1-inch square piece of paper
A small amount of water
Place the houseplant and all other items on a flat surface near or in the place where you'll grow the plant. Using the pencil or green pen, draw a simple, small picture of the plant in vibrant health on the small piece of paper. Draw lines of energy streaming out from it. Visualize the plant's future health as you're doing this.
Next, gently brush the paper (picture side down) against the plant, giving it love and energy, and possibly saying the following words:
Quote: Shoots unfurl;
Flowers bloom;
Leaves uncurl
In this room.
Plant of green,
Forever strong,
Grow now here
Where you belong.
Roots push deep and
Branches climb
By the power
Of this rhyme.
Grow now, plant; this is the time!
As you say these words, block out all thoughts of past failures that you may have had with houseplants. This will only negate the power of the ritual.
Next, fold the paper with two creases into a small square. Push this into the soil, close to the pot's wall. As you do this, say:
Move the plant to its new home. Water it while saying:
Set down the empty water container. Hold your hands palms downward above the pant and say:
It should grow beautifully."
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Air: To Stimulate Creativity
"For this ritual you'll need a flute or air instrument of some kind. Panpipes, a harmonica, pennywhistle, even a trumpet are all fine, but an instrument made of wood or bamboo is best.[br][br]If you've never used such an instrument before, get to know it prior to using it in magic. Be certain that you can make it create the desired sounds. Then, do the following:
Light a yellow candle. Hold the flute before it while saying these or similar words:
Quote: Music magic
Come to me;
Music magic
Let me see.
Music wakes the
Muse in me;
Music magic
Come to me.
Music magic
Opens me
To the music
Mystery.
Mystic mind
Awakened be.
Music magic
Sets me free.
Visualize yourself writing that letter, composing that speech, finishing that painting, weaving that rug, or beginning to work on that book that you've been meaning to write for some time.
Now play the instrument for a few seconds. You don't have to play a song; simply let the flute bring forth it's energy through its music. Once you've accomplished this, set down the instrument and, within sight of it, do your creative work.
If your conscious mind once again blocks you, play the flute for a few seconds and go back to your work. When you're finished for the moment, snuff out the candle flame and put the taper and instrument in a special place until the next time that you need them."
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Fire: A Spell of Protection
"Sit or stand before any fire. Look into the flames (or flame, if using a candle). Visualize the fire bathing you with glowing, protective light. The fire creates a flaming, shimmering sphere around you. If you wish, say the following or similar words:
Quote: Craft the spell
In the fire;
Craft it well;
Weave it higher.
Weave it now
Of shining flame;
None shall come
To hurt or maim.
None shall pass
This fiery wall;
None shall pass
No, none at all.
Repeat this simple yet effective ritual every day when in need."
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Water: To Increase Psychic Awareness
"Go to a flat, slow-moving stream. Bury a coin at the base of a nearby tree or bush and gently collect three leaves. Thank the plant for its sacrifice as you collect the leaves.
Next, hold the leaves between your palms. Visualize yourself as a psychic person, who can call upon the psychic mind at will. Imagine what it would be like to be psychic. Push your personal power into the leaves with your visualization.
Set one leaf afloat on top of the water. Say these or similar words:
Quote: Leaf afloat,
Leaf so green,
Help me see
What's unseen.
As the first leaf sails away, launch another, then the third, each time saying the same words.
As each leaf touches the water, it slowly dispels the energy that you've given it. This energy mixes with the psychic-inducing power of the water to bring your need into manifestation.
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
You can find these spells and more in "Earth, Air, Fire, & Water: More Techniques of Natural Magic" by Scott Cunningham |
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Posted: Sat Nov 10, 2007 7:20 pm
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Spiritual and Health Benefits Gained from Meditation Throughout the World’s History
This article was Written by: NolaIvory
Who can say how long the practice of meditation has been around? Researchers believe that hunter-gatherers in the early times may have even achieved an altered state of consciousness by staring into campfires. This could have been in preparation for the hunt to come or for some other spiritual benefit.
Thousands of years after the art of meditation became widespread in Asia (thanks to Buddhism and Zen) it became known in the Western world.
Up until recently, meditation has been seen as only a religious practice, and not for “men of science,” but today doctors and scientists alike have discovered the health benefits. Dr. Herbert Benson, who helped to launch the health efficiency of meditation through his research at Harvard in the early 1970s, shows how meditation is an “antidote to stress.”
Listed here are some of the basic effects on the body that Dr. Benson illustrated. Meditation:
- decreases heart rate
- decreases the respiratory rate
- decreases blood pressure
- decreases oxygen consumption
- decreases muscle tension (and hypertension)
- gives overall better health
- allows for better sleep
- makes one calmer
- gives one better concentration
From the religious standpoint, though, it can be argued that there are more benefits than just these few. While meditating, one connects not only with the inner self (thus gaining a better understanding of who and what the human race, is), but also connects with the Diety(ies) that resides inside oneself.
But either way one looks at it, from the medical or the spiritual standpoint, one would agree that the art and practice of meditation has lasted this long for a reason. Let us keep it that way for years to come.
NolaIvory used the following sources for information:
http://iml.jou.ufl.edu/projects/Spring05/Luft/history.htm
http://www.buzzle.com/editorials/3-8-2006-90696.asp
http://www.fhu.com/history-of-meditation.html
http://www.divinegold.com/meditation/meditationbenefits.htm |
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