My nephew Marshall is experiencing some very serious health challenges. Please pray for him and keep him in your prayers until September 13 when he returns to the doctor for a followup prognosis. He is the 35 year old father of two, Meggie and James and the husband of Kelly.
Tuesday, August 31, 2004
Did you feel Pluto go direct yesterday? I was just totally exhausted and couldn't figure out why til one of my clients told me to look at last month's eZine (!)
These last two weeks have been intense. Out jogging, I saw a completely disemboweled raven with it's big black feathers spread over the grass. The feathers were so big and beautiful. I also saw two rattlesnakes on my property and met Russell the Rattlesnake Man who came and took them away humanely.
This afternoon I was jogging over by the golf course and saw a tiny black and white snake and other signs of changes to come.
Clients have reported many major decisions this week and, unfortunately, some life and death matters. When Mercury goes direct Wednesday or Thursday depending on where you are, look for a great deal more clarity and a better feeling all the way around.
These last two weeks have been intense. Out jogging, I saw a completely disemboweled raven with it's big black feathers spread over the grass. The feathers were so big and beautiful. I also saw two rattlesnakes on my property and met Russell the Rattlesnake Man who came and took them away humanely.
This afternoon I was jogging over by the golf course and saw a tiny black and white snake and other signs of changes to come.
Clients have reported many major decisions this week and, unfortunately, some life and death matters. When Mercury goes direct Wednesday or Thursday depending on where you are, look for a great deal more clarity and a better feeling all the way around.
Sunday, August 29, 2004
I was out jogging this afternoon and found these five cards lying on the road close to each other, some face up, some face down. Yu can read a deck of cards like a tarot deck, so I thought I'd share the news.
Ace of Clubs = New endeavor
Jack of Hearts = Impractical, immature, kind, but unrealistic young man
2 of Hearts = romance in the air
King of Clubs = Mature man who is an entrepreneur, has good instincts, spiritual later in life, like a father
8 of Spades = Fear of leaving a bad situation. Imprisonment, military life
Ace of Clubs = New endeavor
Jack of Hearts = Impractical, immature, kind, but unrealistic young man
2 of Hearts = romance in the air
King of Clubs = Mature man who is an entrepreneur, has good instincts, spiritual later in life, like a father
8 of Spades = Fear of leaving a bad situation. Imprisonment, military life
As some know, my daughter got me playing tennis with her early this summer. I'm so jazzed because now, for the first time, I can see her father's and my athletic ability in her. I was wondering where it was. He was a fantastic athlete when I met and married him, almost got a got at the pro's in baseball and was one of the most beautiful amateur tennis players I've yet to see. Well, she's a FINE tennis player ... very strong and steady, also a lot of perserverance and good concentration. She beats me almost straight games and sets (!!) Not much fun for her. In order to spice up her life :-) she signed us up as substitutes for the club's ladies doubles tournament which is starting soon. We work out with the group twice a week.
Much to my surprise, it's totally fun. This whole decade for me, between 50 and 60 has been full of surprises, new things in life, including that I started painting at 50. My daughter's a mild extrovert and I'm about halfway between ... she handled all of the social aspects, such as thinking of it in the first place, finding the club, joining, getting us signed up, into our first game, introduced all the way 'round, and so forth. Whew! That took a lot of work. That's why we love our extrovert friends.
Turns out I have one of the best serves in the club. It's got a lot of power. I bought a new Wilson Hyper Hammer for this whole project in June and I still don't have a reliable forehand (!) It's a fantastic racquet and so different I've had to reinvent my feel for placing shots.
I'll let you know if we actually get to play in the tournament. This is pretty wild stuff for an introvert. For years I've stuck to sports you can do alone. At the moment I also jog an hour a day and am taking out my roller blades today for a closer look. When I put them away a few years ago, the brakes were wearing thin and I wasn't able to find a replacement in my particular skate which I'm quite fond of. It was fun to rollerblade but it increases the size of your calves and hips, not two places I have always wanted to have muscle.
Much to my surprise, it's totally fun. This whole decade for me, between 50 and 60 has been full of surprises, new things in life, including that I started painting at 50. My daughter's a mild extrovert and I'm about halfway between ... she handled all of the social aspects, such as thinking of it in the first place, finding the club, joining, getting us signed up, into our first game, introduced all the way 'round, and so forth. Whew! That took a lot of work. That's why we love our extrovert friends.
Turns out I have one of the best serves in the club. It's got a lot of power. I bought a new Wilson Hyper Hammer for this whole project in June and I still don't have a reliable forehand (!) It's a fantastic racquet and so different I've had to reinvent my feel for placing shots.
I'll let you know if we actually get to play in the tournament. This is pretty wild stuff for an introvert. For years I've stuck to sports you can do alone. At the moment I also jog an hour a day and am taking out my roller blades today for a closer look. When I put them away a few years ago, the brakes were wearing thin and I wasn't able to find a replacement in my particular skate which I'm quite fond of. It was fun to rollerblade but it increases the size of your calves and hips, not two places I have always wanted to have muscle.
In memory of my grandmother, Gertrude Stolterfoht. This summer my crepe myrtle didn't bloom because there was a hot stretch when it didn't get enough water. Usually it blooms on my birthday.
Saturday, August 28, 2004
Introverts Quote of the Week
from my reader, Cassie, age 21
PUSHING FORWARD
"I've always felt as though I was a stranger to everybody, even my closest of friends and family. I felt as though I could always understand everyone around me, from the first few moments of meeting, but I never felt it was requited. It's as though I can pierce into the souls of those around me, but all they could see was the surface. That's the most frusterating thing in the world to me.
"I always felt I didn't fit into this world, somehow ... as though I was the ugly duckling in a world of swans, but as I'm sure we all have learned, we are the beautiful swans. It's so encouraging to me, to find a group of people that have similar hurts and bruises in life, and yet still seem to push onward for that greater good."
Cassie is a 21 year old infp introvert.
Thanks, Cassie, for putting it so beautifully into words.
Cell Phone Etiquette
Don'ts
1. Never take a personal mobile call during a business meeting. This includes interviews and meetings with co-workers or subordinates.
2. Maintain at least a 10-foot zone from anyone while talking.
3. Never talk in elevators, libraries, museums, restaurants, theaters, dentist or doctor waiting rooms, places of worship, auditoriums or other enclosed public spaces, such as hospital emergency rooms or buses. And don't have any emotional conversations in public -- ever.
4. Don't use loud and annoying ring tones that destroy concentration and eardrums. Grow up!
5. Never "multi-task" by making calls while shopping, banking, waiting in line or conducting other personal business.
Do's
1. Keep all cellular congress brief and to the point.
2. Use an earpiece in high-traffic or noisy locations. That lets you hear the amplification -- how loud you sound at the other end -- so you can modulate your voice.
3. Tell callers when you're on a cell phone and where you are -- so they can anticipate distractions or disconnections.
4. Demand "quiet zones" and "phone-free areas" at work and in public venues, like the quiet cars on the Metroliner.
5. Inform everyone on your stored-number list that you've just adopted the new rules for mobile manners. Ask them to do likewise. Please.
Joanna Krotz for MSN
Don'ts
1. Never take a personal mobile call during a business meeting. This includes interviews and meetings with co-workers or subordinates.
2. Maintain at least a 10-foot zone from anyone while talking.
3. Never talk in elevators, libraries, museums, restaurants, theaters, dentist or doctor waiting rooms, places of worship, auditoriums or other enclosed public spaces, such as hospital emergency rooms or buses. And don't have any emotional conversations in public -- ever.
4. Don't use loud and annoying ring tones that destroy concentration and eardrums. Grow up!
5. Never "multi-task" by making calls while shopping, banking, waiting in line or conducting other personal business.
Do's
1. Keep all cellular congress brief and to the point.
2. Use an earpiece in high-traffic or noisy locations. That lets you hear the amplification -- how loud you sound at the other end -- so you can modulate your voice.
3. Tell callers when you're on a cell phone and where you are -- so they can anticipate distractions or disconnections.
4. Demand "quiet zones" and "phone-free areas" at work and in public venues, like the quiet cars on the Metroliner.
5. Inform everyone on your stored-number list that you've just adopted the new rules for mobile manners. Ask them to do likewise. Please.
Joanna Krotz for MSN
You know I'm as health nut so I couldn't resist sharing this new diet witb you!!
........Good luck..........
This is a specially formulated diet designed to help women cope with the stress that builds up during the day.
........Good luck..........
This is a specially formulated diet designed to help women cope with the stress that builds up during the day.
BREAKFAST:
1 Grapefruit
1 Slice whole wheat
toast
1 cup skim milk
LUNCH:
Small portion
lean, steamed chicken with
1 cup of spinach
1 cup herbal
tea
1 Hershey Kiss
AFTERNOON SNACK:
The rest of the
Kisses in the bag
1 tub of Hagen Daas Ice Cream with Choc-chip topping
DINNER:
4 bottles of wine (red or white)
2 loaves Garlic bread
1 Family size Supreme Pizza
3 Snickers Bars
LATE NIGHT SNACK:
Whole frozen Sarah Lee cheesecake (eaten directly from the Freezer)
Remember: STRESSED SPELLED BACKWARDS IS DE SSERTS
Friday, August 27, 2004
I know these are really nasty but sometimes a sense of humor is what gets us through the night!
THINGS YOU'D LIKE TO SAY OUT LOUD AT WORK:
1. I can see your point, but I still think you're full of shit.
2. I don't know what your problem is, but I'll bet it's hard to
pronounce.
3. How about never? Is never good for you?
4. I see you've set aside this special time to humiliate yourself in public.
5. I'm really easy to get along with once you people learn to see it my way.
6. I'll try being nicer if you'll try being smarter.
7. I'm out of my mind, but feel free to leave a message.
8. I don't work here I'm a consultant.
9. It sounds like English, but I can't understand a damn word you're saying.
10. Ahhh...I see the screw-up fairy has visited us again...
11. I like you. You remind me of myself when I was young and stupid.
12. You are validating my inherent mistrust of strangers.
13. I have plenty of talent and vision; I just don't give a damn.
14. I'm already visualizing the duct tape over your mouth.
15. I will always cherish the initial misconceptions I had about you.
16. Thank you. We're all refreshed and challenged by your unique point of view.
17. The fact that no one understands you doesn't mean you're an artist.
18. Any connection between your reality and mine is purely coincidental.
19. What am I? Flypaper for freaks!?
20. I'm not being rude, you're just insignificant.
21. It's a thankless job, but I've got a lot of Karma to burn off.
22. And your crybaby whiny-assed opinion would be...?
23. Do I look like a people person?
24. This isn't an office. It's Hell with fluorescent lighting.
25. I started out with nothing & still have most of it left.
26. Sarcasm is just one more service we offer.
27. If I throw a stick, will you leave?
28. Errors have been made. Others will be blamed.
29. Whatever kind of look you were going for, you missed.
30. Wait! Wait! I'm trying to imagine you with a personality.
31. A cubicle is just a padded cell without a door.
32 Can I trade this job for what's behind door #1?
33. Too many freaks, not enough circuses.
34. Nice perfume. Must you marinate in it?
35. Chaos, panic, & disorder-my work here is done.
36. How do I set a laser printer to stun?
37. I thought I wanted a career; turns out I just wanted a salary.
38. Who lit the fuse on your tampon?
39. Oh I get it... like humor... but different.
THINGS YOU'D LIKE TO SAY OUT LOUD AT WORK:
1. I can see your point, but I still think you're full of shit.
2. I don't know what your problem is, but I'll bet it's hard to
pronounce.
3. How about never? Is never good for you?
4. I see you've set aside this special time to humiliate yourself in public.
5. I'm really easy to get along with once you people learn to see it my way.
6. I'll try being nicer if you'll try being smarter.
7. I'm out of my mind, but feel free to leave a message.
8. I don't work here I'm a consultant.
9. It sounds like English, but I can't understand a damn word you're saying.
10. Ahhh...I see the screw-up fairy has visited us again...
11. I like you. You remind me of myself when I was young and stupid.
12. You are validating my inherent mistrust of strangers.
13. I have plenty of talent and vision; I just don't give a damn.
14. I'm already visualizing the duct tape over your mouth.
15. I will always cherish the initial misconceptions I had about you.
16. Thank you. We're all refreshed and challenged by your unique point of view.
17. The fact that no one understands you doesn't mean you're an artist.
18. Any connection between your reality and mine is purely coincidental.
19. What am I? Flypaper for freaks!?
20. I'm not being rude, you're just insignificant.
21. It's a thankless job, but I've got a lot of Karma to burn off.
22. And your crybaby whiny-assed opinion would be...?
23. Do I look like a people person?
24. This isn't an office. It's Hell with fluorescent lighting.
25. I started out with nothing & still have most of it left.
26. Sarcasm is just one more service we offer.
27. If I throw a stick, will you leave?
28. Errors have been made. Others will be blamed.
29. Whatever kind of look you were going for, you missed.
30. Wait! Wait! I'm trying to imagine you with a personality.
31. A cubicle is just a padded cell without a door.
32 Can I trade this job for what's behind door #1?
33. Too many freaks, not enough circuses.
34. Nice perfume. Must you marinate in it?
35. Chaos, panic, & disorder-my work here is done.
36. How do I set a laser printer to stun?
37. I thought I wanted a career; turns out I just wanted a salary.
38. Who lit the fuse on your tampon?
39. Oh I get it... like humor... but different.
Wednesday, August 25, 2004
Why did I go into astrology? Well, it's Jungian based, the way some of us practice it, and Jung, as far as I'm concerned, saved the world from the Procrustean Bed of psychology.
Thanks to DAVID LANCE GOINES for this great description.
... Saving the evil memory, no trace whatever remains of the monster Damastes, and his name has survived him as a byword for cruelty. I don't know why this story brings to mind myrmidons of the Internal Revenue Service. Must be my classical education. Sleep tight.
April 15, 1994
3/17/99
Well, unless it's because to the creative intuitive introvert, the whole world is a Procrustean Bed! Thanks David for the great recap of the Greek myth. We creative, intuitive introverts are just 1% of the population. They don't make a bed for us. We have to make our own.
Thanks to DAVID LANCE GOINES for this great description.
PROCRUSTEAN BED
NEAR ELEUSIS, in Attica, there lurked a bandit named Damastes, also called Procrustes, or "The Stretcher." He had an iron bed on which travelers who fell into his hands were compelled to spend the night. His humor was to stretch the ones who were too short for the bed until they died, or, if they were too tall, to cut off as much of their limbs as would make them short enough. None could resist him, and the surrounding countryside became a desert.... Saving the evil memory, no trace whatever remains of the monster Damastes, and his name has survived him as a byword for cruelty. I don't know why this story brings to mind myrmidons of the Internal Revenue Service. Must be my classical education. Sleep tight.
April 15, 1994
3/17/99
Well, unless it's because to the creative intuitive introvert, the whole world is a Procrustean Bed! Thanks David for the great recap of the Greek myth. We creative, intuitive introverts are just 1% of the population. They don't make a bed for us. We have to make our own.
These are the bells I love the best, the church bells at Yaroslavl, a Russian village.
Here I am watching. It's the most marvelous sound. Not like anything in America.
Here I am watching. It's the most marvelous sound. Not like anything in America.
And my love isn't either :-)
From Jewel, the singer, for the ones we love ... I try to forget you but you have tied bells to your name.....they jingle everytime I think of you without shame!
Tuesday, August 24, 2004
From Jonathan Cainer, UK Astologer
Here's some public relations for the astrology field. Jonathan sez: Today, we're going to take a new look at some old ideas about the zodiac. I want to highlight some of the crazy things that people seem to assume about the different signs and then set the record straight.... Just before we start though, there are a few things I must make clear.The first, is that nobody is typical of their zodiac sign. We are all individuals and, in our full birth charts, based on our date, time and place of birth, we have all twelve signs operating on us. Your zodiac sign (we astrologers call it your Sun sign) is one of the stronger influences but it is not the only one. It can never, ever represent the be-all and end all of who you are.
Next, I must stress -- as clearly as I can -- that astrology is not about destiny. I hate that word. Astrology is about choice. It is about weighing up your options and picking the best ones. Being born on a certain day doesn't force you to be a certain way. It just makes you a bit more likely to be that way. As the ancients said "Astra Inclinant, Non necessitant" -- the stars may lean on us a bit but they don't use force.
Click through to find your sign and the rumors about you. Then get the straight answer from this great astrologer. By the way, I agree with every word he says here.
What's the truth about ... your sign ??
Are you ready for this ? Of course you are! Find out, click through.
Aries
Taurus
Gemini
Cancer
Leo
Virgo
Libra
Scorpio
Sagittarius
Capricorn
Aquarius
Pisces
You know how I love Sassy!
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She's got more great stuff online, including fabulous Victorian amber.
Visit SASSY
Today's contemplation ... All laws, no matter how cleverly written, contain loopholes. You are looking for a way round a problem. You can't go around breaking or even bending rules. Ignore that temptation. Instead, look again at precisely what is or is not being 'allowed'. Consider your legitimate options. One of these, on close inspection, will turn out to offer much more than just 'an acceptable way to proceed'. It will prove, if you explore it enthusiastically enough, to contain your perfect answer. Despite recent appearances to the contrary, you are not destined for a life of struggle and sacrifice.
Today's message for one of the sun signs from Mr. Bubbles, the fab UK astrologer {CLICK HERE} one of my clients pointed me toward yesterday. I just thought it was an intriguing statement and probably a universal truth. Sometimes I think we Capricorn-types give up too easily. Someone in my childhood frequenty said, "Where there's a will, there's a way!" I can't remember who it was but that phrase runs through my mind frequently. Perhaps it was my grandmother, Gertrude Stolterfoht Hale.
This is my great Aunt Louise in front of the family home in Rockdale, Texas.
Today's message for one of the sun signs from Mr. Bubbles, the fab UK astrologer {CLICK HERE} one of my clients pointed me toward yesterday. I just thought it was an intriguing statement and probably a universal truth. Sometimes I think we Capricorn-types give up too easily. Someone in my childhood frequenty said, "Where there's a will, there's a way!" I can't remember who it was but that phrase runs through my mind frequently. Perhaps it was my grandmother, Gertrude Stolterfoht Hale.
This is my great Aunt Louise in front of the family home in Rockdale, Texas.
Thinking about a reading?
Here's what Emily has to say.Thank you so much for taking the time to respond to my email. It was refreshing to read, and I truly apprieciate the valueable insights you offered, and am definitley absorbing them into my concioussness. As I learn more about Saturn Return, I become exited and enthusiastic about what the future may bring(even if I don't know exactly what to expect).
I have been exposed to things "New Age" all my life, and quite frankly, have come across a lot of phonies. It warms my spirit to encounter someone as genuine as yourself. You are the real deal. Thank you for providing the service that you provide.
Love and Light,
Emil
Thanks, Emily! Yes, I'm the real thing and the pleasure was all mine :-)
Monday, August 23, 2004
The Wisdom of Crowds by James Surowiecki
This is one of the most interesting books I've read in a long time. It's intended for a broad audience including non intuitives, but for the intuitive, it is a delightful parsing of the world we live in. It substantiates the things we know about people and their ability to perceive beyond the five senses.
It is almost as if you took a room full of people and asked them for a solution, you would tap into the higher mind which is what the intuitive does without having all those other people involved.
The book looks at politics and economics, primarily. This is because when money is involved, the answers get sharper, people try harder....
The book deals with some interesting current events, including the inability of various security forces in America to predict 911. When Dick Grasso got kicked out of his high salaried job at the New York Stock Exchange, did it occur to you this was odd, since it's a private company and they can pay him anything they want? From whence the hue and outcry? And why was it able to bring such pressure to bear on the NYSE Board of Directors? This book has the answer.
Why do we tip waiters and taxi cab drivers when we wouldn't think of tipping the doctor for a good treatment?
Surowiecki discusses small group performance in sports, military, banking, business ... and gives some vivid examples of what works and what doesn't work.
For anyone interested in human behavior -- not idealized hopes for human behavior but how people really beahvior and the quantifiable results, this book is a great late summer read.
Friday, August 20, 2004
Personally, I love Aquarian energy and often associate it with this electrifying shade of blue. I used to have a big laboratory blue topaz ring and whenever I wore it at Psychic Fairs, I had a lot of Aquarians come over for readings.
Wondering which one you prefer.... The first is from free graphic art at www.clipart.com and the second is from the website of a very talented young artist, Rachel Cox. Which one do you think best personifies your understanding of Aquarian energy and why? Email me with your response and I'll post the best answers. Visit Rachel Cox's online gallery at Epilogue Art Galleries
Wondering which one you prefer.... The first is from free graphic art at www.clipart.com and the second is from the website of a very talented young artist, Rachel Cox. Which one do you think best personifies your understanding of Aquarian energy and why? Email me with your response and I'll post the best answers. Visit Rachel Cox's online gallery at Epilogue Art Galleries
MEAN CREEK is a movie coming out soon with a passing bouquet to introverts. One of the leads, Josh Peck, who plays the overweight bully in the film, reminds kids: "Usually, the popular people in school don't amount to anything and the more introverts wind up doing great things, just to keep persevering."
FORBES ONLINE has picked Condoleezza Rice as the most powerful woman in the world. Here is her profile:
National Security Adviser, Bush Administration
Age: 49
Country: U.S.
Advising the leader of the world's largest superpower -- and having the ear of leaders around the globe -- makes Rice, 49, the most powerful woman in the world. President George W. Bush trusts Rice implicitly, likely more than anyone else in the White House. When Rice speaks, she speaks for the president. With her silver-tongued diplomacy and steely nerve, Rice has played a key, behind-the-scenes role in helping to steer the United States through two wars, as well as the resulting controversies. Rice also served under President George H.W. Bush and in the Reagan administration. Despite growing up with racial segregation in Birmingham, Ala., Rice says her "parents had me absolutely convinced that, well, you may not be able to have a hamburger at Woolworth's but you can be president of the United States." -Elizabeth MacDonald
Let's take a look at her astrology chart, a classic Saturn/Pluto New World Order chart. Click thumbnail to see gif in full.
National Security Adviser, Bush Administration
Age: 49
Country: U.S.
Advising the leader of the world's largest superpower -- and having the ear of leaders around the globe -- makes Rice, 49, the most powerful woman in the world. President George W. Bush trusts Rice implicitly, likely more than anyone else in the White House. When Rice speaks, she speaks for the president. With her silver-tongued diplomacy and steely nerve, Rice has played a key, behind-the-scenes role in helping to steer the United States through two wars, as well as the resulting controversies. Rice also served under President George H.W. Bush and in the Reagan administration. Despite growing up with racial segregation in Birmingham, Ala., Rice says her "parents had me absolutely convinced that, well, you may not be able to have a hamburger at Woolworth's but you can be president of the United States." -Elizabeth MacDonald
Let's take a look at her astrology chart, a classic Saturn/Pluto New World Order chart. Click thumbnail to see gif in full.
This is without a doubt one of the most powerful charts I've seen. She is so lucky because her heavy planets in the 10th house trine planets in the 6th making her willing to be of service with her gifts of power. The trine make the energy easily accessible to her as well.
Learn more by visiting and browsing my astrology website. These articles are all related to Saturn/Pluto energy.
Harvesting the Seeds of the New World Order, an article about the recent scandals in the stock market, tracing their development from seeds planted when Saturn first conjuncted Pluto in Libra (1982), beginning a new cycle.
The Pluto Club, an article for those with Pluto aspecting their Sun or Mars.
Old Men are Bastards an article that explores the life of Robert McNamara and his use of power. He is currently experiencing his third Saturn Return, still in power.... This article is a tutorial for astrology students as well.
Wednesday, August 18, 2004
MSN's top ten business films of all time ... which one do you like a why?
"The Magnificent Ambersons"
(Orson Welles, 1942)
"It's a Wonderful Life"
(Frank Capra, 1946)
"The Solid Gold Cadillac"
(Richard Quine, 1956)
"Desk Set"
(Walter Lang, 1957)
"The Apartment"
(Billy Wilder, 1960)
"How to Succeed in Business
Without Really Trying"
(David Swift, 1967)
"The Godfather, Parts I and II"
(Francis Ford Coppola, 1972-74)
"Working Girl"
(Mike Nichols, 1988)
"Glengarry Glen Ross"
(James Foley, 1992)
"Office Space"
(Mike Judge, 1999)
"The Magnificent Ambersons"
(Orson Welles, 1942)
"It's a Wonderful Life"
(Frank Capra, 1946)
"The Solid Gold Cadillac"
(Richard Quine, 1956)
"Desk Set"
(Walter Lang, 1957)
"The Apartment"
(Billy Wilder, 1960)
"How to Succeed in Business
Without Really Trying"
(David Swift, 1967)
"The Godfather, Parts I and II"
(Francis Ford Coppola, 1972-74)
"Working Girl"
(Mike Nichols, 1988)
"Glengarry Glen Ross"
(James Foley, 1992)
"Office Space"
(Mike Judge, 1999)
Sunday, August 15, 2004
Nancy's site, BeMyAstrologer, has been featured on TIM BOUCHER: OCCULT INVESTIGATOR. He liked my article about the kings in the playing card deck. They represent as follows each one of the main sources of Western civilization, with King David symbolizing Judaism (spades), Alexander the Great ancient Greece (clubs), Julius Caesar representing the Roman Empire (diamonds), and Charlemagne the Holy Roman Empire (hearts).
According to OBSCURANT'S BLOG "The king's consorts also have specific identities. The queen of hearts is named as the Jewish matriarch Rachel, the mother of Joseph. The queen of spades is the Pallas Athena, Greek goddess of wisdom. The queen of diamond's name is an obscure one: Argine, an anagram of the Latin word (regina) for queen. Lastly, the queen of spades is Judith, of the Book of Judith. [This from the ROEN Tarot Deck.]"
Obscurant continues, "Kings and queens must have their champions, thus the Jacks are all famous warriors. The jack of hearts is La Hire, also known as Etienne de Vignoles and a comrade-in-arms of Joan d'Arc. The jack of spades is Hector, prince of Troy, the jack of clubs is Judas Maccabeus and the jack of diamonds is Ogier the Dane.
According to OBSCURANT'S BLOG "The king's consorts also have specific identities. The queen of hearts is named as the Jewish matriarch Rachel, the mother of Joseph. The queen of spades is the Pallas Athena, Greek goddess of wisdom. The queen of diamond's name is an obscure one: Argine, an anagram of the Latin word (regina) for queen. Lastly, the queen of spades is Judith, of the Book of Judith. [This from the ROEN Tarot Deck.]"
Obscurant continues, "Kings and queens must have their champions, thus the Jacks are all famous warriors. The jack of hearts is La Hire, also known as Etienne de Vignoles and a comrade-in-arms of Joan d'Arc. The jack of spades is Hector, prince of Troy, the jack of clubs is Judas Maccabeus and the jack of diamonds is Ogier the Dane.
Nancy's article on Electional Medical Astrology has been picked up by Astrology-Horoscopes in the UK.
Nancy's article on drivers has been featured on ASTROSTAR.
Nancy's quote about Force has been featured on Vicki Woodyard's FishPond website.
"Don't ever force an event, big or small. Stay tuned to the subtle energies of a situation and believe that you are being guided because you are." -- Nancy R. Fenn
Vicki Woodyard channels SWAMI Z.
"Don't ever force an event, big or small. Stay tuned to the subtle energies of a situation and believe that you are being guided because you are." -- Nancy R. Fenn
Vicki Woodyard channels SWAMI Z.
Nancy R.. Fenn's presentation on Royal Caribbean's Rhapsody of the Seas was applauded by a guest at YOUR FAVORITE CRUISE. Nancy has presented on Royal Caribbean Cruiseline for several years.
The Top 10 Allies of Wisdom by Nancy R. Fenn
1. The still, small voice within.
Remember, the ego speaks first and loudest and does not wish us well. It is the still, small voice within that guides with wisdom.
2. Patience.
The reward of patience is ... patience.
3. Non-action.
The ability to refrain from taking action can take lifetimes to develop. It is a rare quality.
4. Understanding that the fastest way is often the opposite way.
This principle is related to the metaphysical law of rhythm. "All things are always changing to their opposites."
5. Timing.
It's not what you say, or how you say it. Mostly what counts is WHEN you say it.
6. Applying an appropriate amount of force.
Don't kill a fly with a hammer.
7. The ability to stand alone.
Sine qua non.
8. Integrity.
Do you act the same when no one is looking?9. Realizing that those you wish to impress will do what you do, not what you say.
10. Don't ask anyone to do something you are not willing to do yourself. And ... do it first!
1. The still, small voice within.
Remember, the ego speaks first and loudest and does not wish us well. It is the still, small voice within that guides with wisdom.
2. Patience.
The reward of patience is ... patience.
3. Non-action.
The ability to refrain from taking action can take lifetimes to develop. It is a rare quality.
4. Understanding that the fastest way is often the opposite way.
This principle is related to the metaphysical law of rhythm. "All things are always changing to their opposites."
5. Timing.
It's not what you say, or how you say it. Mostly what counts is WHEN you say it.
6. Applying an appropriate amount of force.
Don't kill a fly with a hammer.
7. The ability to stand alone.
Sine qua non.
8. Integrity.
Do you act the same when no one is looking?9. Realizing that those you wish to impress will do what you do, not what you say.
10. Don't ask anyone to do something you are not willing to do yourself. And ... do it first!
Nancy's article, THE TOP TEN ALLIES OF WISDOM has been picked up by HEALTHY PAGES.
Nancy, a Presenter aboard Royal Caribbean Cruiseline, joins the Gentlemen Hosts on Lauretta Blake's webpage. Here she plays around with Captain Hook as they near the Caribbean!
Nancy Fenn's article called JOSEPH CAMPBELL'S TEN COMMANDMENTS OF READING MYTHS has been picked up by St. John's College High School in Washington, D.C. for Dr. Nighan's British Literature and History of Western Philosophy Course. I couldn't be more pleased!
Nancy's article, WHO's THE BEST AND THE WORST DRIVER? -- based on Sun Signs -- recently got picked up by CompuServe Fun & Games for Travel.
Saturday, August 14, 2004
Nancy's website BeMyAstrologer was chosen SITE OF THE WEEK by astrologer Richard Nolle, June 28, 2004.
Nancy's article, How To Chat Someone Up 101 has been publisehd on SOULS CLUB. It's an article explaining to introverts the delicate art of small talk.
Wednesday, August 11, 2004
The ten most dangerous places in the world to travel from the US State Department:
Afghanistan
Burundi
Democratic Republic of Congo
Haiti
Iraq
Liberia
Pakistan
Somalia
Yemen
Zimbabwe
Afghanistan
Burundi
Democratic Republic of Congo
Haiti
Iraq
Liberia
Pakistan
Somalia
Yemen
Zimbabwe
Capitalizing On Courtesy
Tweaking Your CellPhone Etiquette
excerpted from Penelope Patsuris, FORBES
NEW YORK - The fact that July was National Cellphone Courtesy Month was lost on most people.
Penelope reports ... "The results of Sprint's ... recent Wireless Etiquette Survey made that clear: Seventy-seven percent of those polled said they've overheard a cell phone conversation while in a public restroom. Over half say they are made to feel 'unimportant' when someone they're talking to answers a cell phone.
"But that's what keeps corporate etiquette consultants like Anne Marie Sabath, founder of Cincinnati-based At Ease, in business. As technology proliferates in the office, so too do the courtesy conundrums facing executives everywhere.... she says companies ask her more and more to address the misuse of the handhelds and laptops that are supposed to improve employee productivity....
"Hilka Klinkenberg, who is the president of Etiquette International, based in New York, agrees that when executives use technology in a courteous fashion it's not just a matter of minding their P's and Q's. 'It shouldn't be in the name of manners,' she says. 'It should be done in the name of relationships. Manners make relationships go smoothly. It's all about interacting with co-workers, clients and managers so that they feel valued.'
Klinkenberg notes that while people are extremely aware of others' poor behavior--whether it's text messaging in the middle of a meeting or screaming into a cell phone--they often don't see themselves as offenders. ...
Klinkenberg, who charges $7,500 for a one-day corporate workshop or $250 an hour for one-on-one coaching, says that a little forethought can go a long way in managing business etiquette issues.... Sabath advises clients not to respond to any message, whether it's via telephone, e-mail or IM, until they can give 100% of their attention to it. One of her pet peeves is when people answer a cell phone when they're heading into a meeting or onto a plane. 'They answer and they're very abrupt with the caller,' she says. 'So why not just let it go to voice mail?'
"Other common executive-etiquette transgressions include people who answer their phones or BlackBerries in the middle of meetings, and text messages and e-mails without proper grammar, spelling and punctuation.
Klinkenberg suggests that executives who make calls on city streets or in train stations think about the person on the other end of the line first. 'If it's not an urgent call, why subject them to sirens and other noisy distractions?'"
Nancy's comment: I've been particularly offended with people using their cells in public restrooms. But it doesn't bother me if grammar and punctuation aren't perfect ... that's what the internet used to be all about. What about you, dear reader? What do you think?
This article is from Forbes online.
Tuesday, August 10, 2004
Flaws Discovered In BBC Science/Open University Experiment about how Introverts and Extroverts see the World
The initial hypothesis of the test is that extraverts will see the cube flip more times when asked than introverts, and introverts will see it flip more when asked to just passively view it than extraverts.
An ongoing, online experiment created by Dr. Peter Naish of the Open University, in conjuction with BBC Science, and hosted at OPEN UNIVERSITY has been cited as being flawed with "worthless results" by researcher and conceptual theorist, Marshall Barnes.
Marshall, who has just completed work on a new book on his unified theory of geometry, relativity, quantum mechanics and cosmology called, "the 4th D hypothesis", discovered the Naish experiment after researching the nature of the Necker cube, the wire frame cube drawing that allows sight of all 6 sides. When viewed closely, the cube is known to seemingly "flip" perspectives.
Naish uses the Necker cube in his experimental survey to support the idea that the way people view the world can be determined by the way they view illusions. The initial hypothesis of the test is that extraverts will see the cube flip more times when asked than introverts, and introverts will see it flip more when asked to just passively view it than extraverts. According to the results online so far, this doesn't seem to be the case. Marshall claims to know why.
Monday, August 09, 2004
Here they are, Anthony and his Cleopatra. The costumes were wonderful. There was an interesting and creative use of "hats", crowns, helmets and headdresses ... when they were worn and by whom.
I went to see Anthony and Cleopatra last night and it should have been so much better! The staging was great and as Welch says, the eunuch and prophet were, too. But the main characters failed to convince.
Quote from Anne Marie Welch in The San Diego Union was good: Dan Snook's Antony and Sara Surrey's Cleopatra felt emotionally small, indulgent lovers younger than usual for the parts, not the Mars and Venus upon whom the fate of nations depends.
Surrey's coquettish Cleopatra looks right, with her strong profile, physical stature and lovely way with movement and gesture – and by Act 5, she was Cleopatra, and a grand one.
High on her monument, dressed in ivory and gold, delighting in the bite of the asp that will kill her, this statuesque queen triumphs and transforms, becoming a goddess radiant and assured. Tresnjak then adds an exquisite epilogue in which her handsome younger Antony returns. Strange denizens of the Egyptian court – the eunuch Mardian (Michael Newman, wonderfully weird in drag) and the soothsayer (Bruce Turk, ominous and otherworldly) – row them across Lethe toward an underworld where they can enjoy each other in peace.
A familiar and interesting theme. Were you rooting for Fulvia or Cleopatra? Was Anthony doing a mortal wrong? Your viewpoint may depend more on your adaptation to women's sexuality than the historically based plot. This took place pre-Christian of course. Things were simpler then.
Time to take the OTHER WOMAN'S SURVEY or see what others have said.
Mercury is Retrograde between August 9 and September 2, 2004
Remember your Mercury rules:DO these things:
REvise
REvisit
REschedule
REform
REdecorate
REview
Try not to do these things:
Don't start something new.
Don't assume someone got your message.
Don't be careless with email, cell phones, traffic.
Don't try to communicate something sensitive or complicated.
Don't pursue plans and goals if there is resistance. Wait until September 3rd.
During "normal" times, this is how you learn.
During Mercury Retrograde, this is how you learn.
YOU ARE LEARNING, AREN'T YOU?
Don't let retrogrades throw you!
CALL NANCY
619-669-0605
www.bemyguide.net
www.bemyastrologer.com
Mercury (the information that comes to us during a retrograde) acts as a curative for the Soul. Don't hesitate to call for a reading. Retrogrades are a great time to get a reading. You are much more open to information from the unconscious than at other times, so that means you are much easier to read.
Always ask yourself, "Am I learning a lot during this retrograde?
Here are some books I recommend during Mercury Retrogrades. They are, well, mercurial in nature.
The Magus, by John Fowles
I don't want to spoil the story but this is a very Mercurial book ...
about twins and other Gemini things
See my article on Hermes Trismegistus and The Kybalion
Click here to read the opening page.
Click here to read the opening page.
Click here to read the opening page.
Also visit my Mercury Retrograde pages for an update.
MERCURY AT THE CROSSROADS
THE FIRST ELEVEN DAYS
ABOUT MERCURY RETROGRADES
The Magus, by John Fowles
I don't want to spoil the story but this is a very Mercurial book ...
about twins and other Gemini things
Hermes Trismegistus
fusion of Greek, Roman, Egyptian and esoteric gods ... one of many wonderful books by Manly Hall
See my article on Hermes Trismegistus and The Kybalion
More
BOOKS OF INTEREST during the Retrograde
Hymns of
Orpheus
Mystery
of the Seven Vowels
Toning
Click here to read the opening page.
Click here to read the opening page.
Click here to read the opening page.
Erin Sullivan
in Retrograde Planets: Traversing the Inner Landscape
An excellent book for professional astrologers.
Also visit my Mercury Retrograde pages for an update.
MERCURY AT THE CROSSROADS
THE FIRST ELEVEN DAYS
ABOUT MERCURY RETROGRADES
Let me be Your Astrologer
From a client in New York City ... JKL has a monthly coaching agreement with me for unlimited email consultation. We're making great progress.This is what she writes: I feel like I am in a very different place with men and my life then I was with Xxx. I think with your help I moved through a lot of issues....
Also when you pointed things out about me not being innocent in this whole thing with Yyy, I really had to step back and look at myself and realize how right you were. I think that it boosted my confidence in actually truly look at myself and seeing what I have done. Also how, I am still playing the game. Other things have transpired, and I changed my strategy and my new stratgey is even more effective.:-) I'm pretty good at this game thing. I have put myself into a very good position and also by slightly changing my strategy have put myself in an even better postion without it being at anyone else expense. that's important to me. it had to be unilateral before and it was warratned as far as I am concerned, but its working very well now as a win-win. --JKL
Sunday, August 08, 2004
Here's a nice comment about a full astrology reading I did recently.
"I am so overwhelmed with the truths in these pages and the new set of keys that you lovingly hand me that I am speechless at the moment. I cannot thank God enough for the technology that I resisted for so long called the internet through which I could do an off the wall search on Saturn return and voila!! Makes "ask and you shall receive" so sweet. I'll sit with this epic and let the light it shines enfold me. Until later, I am sated with peace. I am so grateful." --Name Withheld for Confidentiality
How can you get a reading like this? You will receive a written report, completely personalized by Nancy R. Fenn just for you, and a one hour phone consultation.
FIND OUT MORE
"I am so overwhelmed with the truths in these pages and the new set of keys that you lovingly hand me that I am speechless at the moment. I cannot thank God enough for the technology that I resisted for so long called the internet through which I could do an off the wall search on Saturn return and voila!! Makes "ask and you shall receive" so sweet. I'll sit with this epic and let the light it shines enfold me. Until later, I am sated with peace. I am so grateful." --Name Withheld for Confidentiality
How can you get a reading like this? You will receive a written report, completely personalized by Nancy R. Fenn just for you, and a one hour phone consultation.
FIND OUT MORE
Get ready to laugh your head off. This is really, really, really worth clicking for.
THIS LAND, a thoroughly nonpartisan look at the upcoming election.
THIS LAND, a thoroughly nonpartisan look at the upcoming election.
Saturday, August 07, 2004
"To understand God's thoughts, we must study statistics, for these are the measure of his purpose."
-- FLorence Nightingale.I've had my astrology students meditate on this statement because it is so intriguing.
If you remember hearing about a government betting pool on Middle Eastern developments, such as assassination attempts on Prime Minister Sharon, coups in Jordan and Syria, the who, what, when and where of the next Al Quaeda strike ... .. The Wisdom of Crowds devotes a chapter to this and why it would work very well in predicting the future, although it will never be permitted to work in America.
I was interested to read this because the moment I heard of the betting pool, I thought it was one of the smartest ways possible to tap into what everyone knows but can't prove. Of course it is morally offensive but most of what goes on in the world is morally offensive as well. As an intuitive, it made sense to me immediately.
Psychics, police and, I guess, sociological economists have in common the fact that we are trained to look at people's real behavior and not the conventions or appearances which disguise it.
This reminds me of that quizzical quote by Florence Nightingale: "To understand God's thoughts, we must study statistics, for these are the measure of his purpose."
Check out Nightengale's Polar-Area Diagram dramatizing needless deaths in the Crimean War caused by unsanitary conditions.
The Wisdom of Crowds by James Surowiecki. Click bookcover to order from amazon.This really is a most fascinating book. I highly recommend it. It will change the way you look at a lot of things, for example, the way traffic jams occur and what exactly is going on during them ... why do they seem to move backwards up the highway when you see the on the news?
It's such a good book, I think if I were a kid in high school, it might make me want to be a sociological economist. I have always secretly (and sometimes vociferously) thought ... "People think what I do for a living is mysterious!?! What could be more mysterioius than economics?" I.e..,
Question: What is something worth?
Answer: Whatever someone is willing to pay for it.
How much more right brained can you get?
This book proves my point over and over again. It explains in what ways economic behavior is consistent all over the developed world, but irrational. I'll put some quotes up here soon. You'll love them!
Interview with Author ...
From a Eugene, Oregon newspaper review of Troy, this made me laugh out loud. So true! In Greek myths, and Nordic myths, and Hindu myths, and ... the idea is to die fighting and go to the warrior's afterworld, called different things at different times for different people. "After Paris (Orlando Bloom) has triggered the Trojan War by stealing Helen (Diane Kruger), wife of the king of Sparta, she tells him: `I don't want a hero. I want a man I can grow old with.' Not in Greek myth, you don't."
I am madly in love with fairies. My friend Nathan taught me to see them. You'll see a fair number of these lovely creatures in my BLOG and for no good reason.
The Vote is In
The BBC has tallied the votes and these are the TOP TEN movie soundtrack albums of all time. Any surprises?1. Blues Brothers
2. Pulp Fiction
3. Trainspotting
4. Saturday Night Fever
5. Dirty Dancing
6. Gorss Pointe Blank
7. Kill Bill
8, Lost in Translation
9. The Royal Tenenbaums (who would have thought of that one?) hear some
10. Fight
Friday, August 06, 2004
I'm seeing Anthony and Cleopatra this weekend with my friend Deb. It's a study in Apollonian and Dionysian contrast, the law and order of the Roman military versus the alchemical magic of Egypt.
Shakespeare was an infp introvert. He also had Saturn in Cancer and is included as "cousin" to those presently turning 28-30 and 58-60. Learn more about the Saturn Return (28-30) and the second Saturn Return (58-60).
This is what some people have said about their FREE SATURN RETURN READINGS:
Nancy, Firstly I wanted to say thank you for the report that you did send me... I was amazed at how many of the things in there were true. I would love to have a full reprt, but being a South African... with the exchange rate... I can't afford your report. If possible, could you give me an indication of how else I can find a way to get through this period. Also, I'd like to say that I think it is wonderful that you are "out there" helping people when they need it most. Thanks -- Chantelle
[Nancy's note: Chentelle -- I make the exchange rate work for you wherever in the world you are. Make the calculations and send me the corresponding amount in your own currency ... but check with me first!]
July 18, 2004 Reading over what I've written, I want to thank you for providing an audience. I've been over this many times with many people, and yet it is so nice to have a chance to write it, fresh, without having to censor or tailor to protect interested parties. The planets and the cycles of the cosmos also give a certain sense to the stories. And yet, this is only one chapter of my saturn return. I would like to polish this experience, rub and worry it until it reveals its center illumination and then hold it as another light with which to consider new encounters and new adventures. In the meantime I am also interested in general advice for ways to explore and prepare and enjoy this coming transit.
July 17, 2004 just found your site as I'm going through a very difficult "what am I doing? Time is flying so quickly and I feel so utterly lost" phase and so I've stumbled upon the whole Saturn Returns concept. I'm fascinated and enjoyed your site very much. I thought I'd send you an email to say thankyou for some insightful info that may explain my current dilemma. I have, according to your dates, just passed through my Saturn Return. That would explain my impossible moods of late! -- Michelle in Brisbane
July 17, 2004 Reading over what I've written, I want to thank you for providing an audience. I've been over this many times with many people, and yet it is so nice to have a chance to write it, fresh, without having to censor or tailor to protect interested parties. The planets and the cycles of the cosmos also give a certain sense to the stories. And yet, this is only one chapter of my saturn return. I would like to polish this experience, rub and worry it until it reveals its center illumination and then hold it as another light with which to consider new encounters and new adventures. In the meantime I am also interested in general advice for ways to explore and prepare and enjoy this coming transit. -- Sally
For more comments like this, click here >>>
Be sure and order your FREE SATURN RETURN MINI-READING while you're there and tell a friend.
Shakespeare was an infp introvert. He also had Saturn in Cancer and is included as "cousin" to those presently turning 28-30 and 58-60. Learn more about the Saturn Return (28-30) and the second Saturn Return (58-60).
This is what some people have said about their FREE SATURN RETURN READINGS:
Nancy, Firstly I wanted to say thank you for the report that you did send me... I was amazed at how many of the things in there were true. I would love to have a full reprt, but being a South African... with the exchange rate... I can't afford your report. If possible, could you give me an indication of how else I can find a way to get through this period. Also, I'd like to say that I think it is wonderful that you are "out there" helping people when they need it most. Thanks -- Chantelle
[Nancy's note: Chentelle -- I make the exchange rate work for you wherever in the world you are. Make the calculations and send me the corresponding amount in your own currency ... but check with me first!]
July 18, 2004 Reading over what I've written, I want to thank you for providing an audience. I've been over this many times with many people, and yet it is so nice to have a chance to write it, fresh, without having to censor or tailor to protect interested parties. The planets and the cycles of the cosmos also give a certain sense to the stories. And yet, this is only one chapter of my saturn return. I would like to polish this experience, rub and worry it until it reveals its center illumination and then hold it as another light with which to consider new encounters and new adventures. In the meantime I am also interested in general advice for ways to explore and prepare and enjoy this coming transit.
July 17, 2004 just found your site as I'm going through a very difficult "what am I doing? Time is flying so quickly and I feel so utterly lost" phase and so I've stumbled upon the whole Saturn Returns concept. I'm fascinated and enjoyed your site very much. I thought I'd send you an email to say thankyou for some insightful info that may explain my current dilemma. I have, according to your dates, just passed through my Saturn Return. That would explain my impossible moods of late! -- Michelle in Brisbane
July 17, 2004 Reading over what I've written, I want to thank you for providing an audience. I've been over this many times with many people, and yet it is so nice to have a chance to write it, fresh, without having to censor or tailor to protect interested parties. The planets and the cycles of the cosmos also give a certain sense to the stories. And yet, this is only one chapter of my saturn return. I would like to polish this experience, rub and worry it until it reveals its center illumination and then hold it as another light with which to consider new encounters and new adventures. In the meantime I am also interested in general advice for ways to explore and prepare and enjoy this coming transit. -- Sally
For more comments like this, click here >>>
Be sure and order your FREE SATURN RETURN MINI-READING while you're there and tell a friend.
Is there a new member of your family or a baby in your world you'd like to know better? Consider a BABY HOROSCOPE from Nancy R. Fenn. This is a special gift for a special event. Baby horoscopes are read differently than those I do for mom and dad, aunt or uncle of for the grandparents at their second Saturn Return.
Would you like to know what it's like for the Sun Sign of your new baby? How you can be the best parent, friend or relative for your little Aries, Libra or Pisces?
Learn more >>>
Proverbs are the Sanctuary of the Intuitions of a Nation
Emerson says in his Essay on Compensation, "Still more striking is the expression of this fact in the proverbs of all nations, which are always the literature of reason, or the statements of an absolute truth, without qualification. Proverbs, like the sacred books of each nation, are the sanctuary of the intuitions. That which the droning world, chained to appearances, will not allow the realist to say in his own words, it will suffer him to say in proverbs without contradiction. And this law of laws which the pulpit, the senate, and the college deny, is hourly preached in all markets and workshops by flights of proverbs, whose teaching is as true and as omnipresent as that of birds and flies."
There is a secret threesome between Ajax, Hector and Achilles which Troy ignored but it is very interesting. I was reminded of it when I was rereading Emerson's Essay on Compensation, wherein he says, "The poets related that stone walls, and iron swords, and leathern thongs had an occult sympathy with the wrongs of their owners; that the belt which Ajax gave Hector dragged the Trojan hero over the field at the wheels of the car [chariot] of Achilles, and the sword which Hector gave Ajax was that on whose point Ajax fell."
Of course he means occult in the exact meaning of the word, "hidden but not hidden to those who have eyes to see".
In the movie Troy, Hector kills Ajax in the first real pitched battle. This was, incidentally, to me the best fight scene in the whole 2+ hours. In Homer, The Iliad, Ajax kills himself toward the end of the ten year siege because, after Achilles' death, Ulysses is rewarded his shield and armor, not Ajax. This sield of Achilles is a very magical thing.
Read more about Achilles' shield >>
Of course he means occult in the exact meaning of the word, "hidden but not hidden to those who have eyes to see".
In the movie Troy, Hector kills Ajax in the first real pitched battle. This was, incidentally, to me the best fight scene in the whole 2+ hours. In Homer, The Iliad, Ajax kills himself toward the end of the ten year siege because, after Achilles' death, Ulysses is rewarded his shield and armor, not Ajax. This sield of Achilles is a very magical thing.
Read more about Achilles' shield >>
Emerson's Essay on Compensation helps us understand the concept of karma in our life today
"So do we put our life into every act," writes Emerson in his Essay on Compensation."The dice of God are always loaded. The world looks like a multiplication-table, or a mathematical equation, which, turn it how you will, balances itself. Take what figure you will, its exact value, nor more nor less, still returns to you. Every secret is told, every crime is punished, every virtue rewarded, every wrong redressed, in silence and certainty. What we call retribution is the universal necessity by which the whole appears wherever a part appears. If you see smoke, there must be fire. If you see a hand or a limb, you know that the trunk to which it belongs is there behind...."
Emerson's works are now in the public domain. I have this essay you can read for free online.
Read more >>>
Thursday, August 05, 2004
Alone But Not Lonely
A column by Todd PuntolilloI have a friend who has learned quite a bit from a web site about introverts. [Visit THE INTROVERTZCOACH.] She liked the site so much she even bought the tee shirt which reads "Alone But Not Lonely." Inspired by this and some other teachings she shared, I’ve been learning to allow life to flow through me instead of being attached to an agenda. The mechanics were covered to some degree in last month’s column. Like most of my columns, there is a deeper, underlying spiritual import. With each spiritual concept comes a challenge to this writer nearly every month: To live what I write. So it was with last month’s column. I wrote about how we can live with less agenda and more acceptance of what is. Immediately, as is the case nearly every month, life has forced me to walk my talk. I’ll explain how it happened this time.
I am vacationing here in marvelous Costa Rica spending lots of time alone. The people from here like to be called Ticos. Many of the people have a system of making plans that differs from most cosmopolitan areas. It is called Tico Time, which seems to mean: "It will happen when it happens, if it happens at all." As a result, each new day is an adventure. No, I am not just being a Pollyana, I really am learning to make it work for me in a delightful way. For example, I ruptured a tendon in my hand. A friendly acquaintance offered to drive me to the hospital the following morning. Weeks later I still haven’t heard from her. I got the opportunity to find the clinic myself; and without my trusty tennis racket or fishing rod in hand, I learned to pass my days enjoyably despite the loss of all prior plans.
As a result of this unusual occurrence, I learned something powerful that I can share with you: To be alone is not a reason to be lonely. As a massage therapist I have, for years, been observing two things. One is, regardless of how big a family or circle or friends one has, most people are lonely...at least part of the time. Similarly, most people are touch deprived, that is, they are not touched lovingly nearly enough. Prior to these realizations, the old programs in my brain could have convinced me to believe that to be alone is to be abandoned and unloved. Because of how these concepts came together, I began rethinking and understanding that to be alone is merely to not have company at the moment. Any other definition is a self-imposed fiction. I am clear now that I do not need to equate being alone with negative feelings. In fact, I am feeding on the power of stillness and quietude. To be able to be still and peaceful can be truly empowering and gratifying.
Oh, and as to my vacation, after disposing of my agenda, I am having a terrific time traveling around this beautiful country, awed by nature, meeting the lovely people and delighting in their gentle culture. Every day unfolds perfectly–without me tampering with it! Hasta pronto!
Todd Puntolillo 7/26/04
Visit TODD PUNTOLILLO on the web.
Get your INTROVERTZ "T" today CLICK HERE
Wednesday, August 04, 2004
Excerpted from an article in BBC Online.
"Playwright Harold Pinter is going to receive the Wilfred Owen award for poetry this year for his anti-Iraq War poetry.
Tbe prize is awarded to the poet who continues in Owen's tradition. According to an article today in the BBC Online, "Owen, who died in the First World War aged 25, is regarded by many as England's finest war poet.:
The article continues, "Owen enlisted in the 3/28th London Regiment in 1915. He spent time on the front line at Serre, France, in 1917, which inspired his poem The Sentry.
"Later that year he met fellow war poets, Siegfried Sassoon and Robert Graves, and wrote the poems Anthem for Doomed Youth and Dulce et Decorum Est. He was killed in action on the banks of the Sambre-Oise canal, near Ors, just days before the war ended in November 1918."
I have always loved the poem. Here it is, recited and illustrated with FLASH. DULCE ET DECORUM EST "It is a sweet and glorious thing to die for one's country."
"Playwright Harold Pinter is going to receive the Wilfred Owen award for poetry this year for his anti-Iraq War poetry.
Tbe prize is awarded to the poet who continues in Owen's tradition. According to an article today in the BBC Online, "Owen, who died in the First World War aged 25, is regarded by many as England's finest war poet.:
The article continues, "Owen enlisted in the 3/28th London Regiment in 1915. He spent time on the front line at Serre, France, in 1917, which inspired his poem The Sentry.
"Later that year he met fellow war poets, Siegfried Sassoon and Robert Graves, and wrote the poems Anthem for Doomed Youth and Dulce et Decorum Est. He was killed in action on the banks of the Sambre-Oise canal, near Ors, just days before the war ended in November 1918."
I have always loved the poem. Here it is, recited and illustrated with FLASH. DULCE ET DECORUM EST "It is a sweet and glorious thing to die for one's country."
"There is nothing--but nothing--in the realm of art to set beside Richard Wagner's Der Ring des Nibelungen."
I am very thrilled that I will be attending the Ring in Chicago this April because I agree with the statement above. I'm sure it will be a high point of my life. The series is rarely presented in America because of the particular quality of singers required, the amount of time, etc. and in Chicago they are doing all together as they were intended to be shown. The series is 85% sold out.
I am very thrilled that I will be attending the Ring in Chicago this April because I agree with the statement above. I'm sure it will be a high point of my life. The series is rarely presented in America because of the particular quality of singers required, the amount of time, etc. and in Chicago they are doing all together as they were intended to be shown. The series is 85% sold out.
In case you don't have anything better to do, play the RED NECK'S VIDEO GAME.
I'm reading The Wisdom of Crowds now by James Surowiecki which I chose intuitively a few days ago from something I read on this blogger site. It's a very exciting book for an intuitive and for someone who has always loved groups (can you say Moon in Libra in the 11th house?)
The exciting thing is that the author, a financial columnist for The New Yorker Magazine, is now discussing the FutureMAP, a project funded by the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency DARPA. Surowiecki explains, "The second part of the FutureMAP was the so-called Policy Analysis Market (PAM), which in the summer of 2003 became the object of a firestorm of criticism from appalled politicians. The idea behind PAM was a simple one (and similar to the idea behind the internal market [such as the stock market]): just as the IEM [private market for betting on presidential elections that has proven accurate] does a good job of forecasting election results and other markets seem to do a good job of forecasting the future, a market centered on the Middle East might provide intelligence that otherwise would be missed."
What Surowiecki is being euphemistic about is that the market would allow the general public to bet on the next assasination attempt, probable targets, possible terrorist attacks and the like -- also coups, revolts and overthrows.
Politicians called it morally reprehensible and I agreed but at the same time I knew intuitively it was a brilliant idea and that it would surely work. That is the thesis of this chapter in Surowiecki's book!
Among the reasons it would work, I would boil it down to a simple one. Given enough money, the average man (I chose that word on purpose) is highly motivated to know what he knows. Also because there are no repercussions.
Psychics like me and detectives, CIA agents, etc., like the guys that came up with this scheme know a lot more about the way people "really" think and act than politicians or any other group of people. We see people in their absolute private moments and when they can't hide anything ... each in his or her own way.
I will write more about this as I get through the book. I knew I was right about this!!! I saved a printout from the internet site and immediately got into a friendly argument with my daughter who thought I was crazy.
But I'm not :-)
It is probably impossible to implement this in America which has its peculiar Purtian ways of denying the realities of human nature but it is clear to me that this market would "motivate" people in just the right way to know what they know -- and just the right kind of people, too, the street-smart kind with their ear to the ground.
The exciting thing is that the author, a financial columnist for The New Yorker Magazine, is now discussing the FutureMAP, a project funded by the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency DARPA. Surowiecki explains, "The second part of the FutureMAP was the so-called Policy Analysis Market (PAM), which in the summer of 2003 became the object of a firestorm of criticism from appalled politicians. The idea behind PAM was a simple one (and similar to the idea behind the internal market [such as the stock market]): just as the IEM [private market for betting on presidential elections that has proven accurate] does a good job of forecasting election results and other markets seem to do a good job of forecasting the future, a market centered on the Middle East might provide intelligence that otherwise would be missed."
What Surowiecki is being euphemistic about is that the market would allow the general public to bet on the next assasination attempt, probable targets, possible terrorist attacks and the like -- also coups, revolts and overthrows.
Politicians called it morally reprehensible and I agreed but at the same time I knew intuitively it was a brilliant idea and that it would surely work. That is the thesis of this chapter in Surowiecki's book!
Among the reasons it would work, I would boil it down to a simple one. Given enough money, the average man (I chose that word on purpose) is highly motivated to know what he knows. Also because there are no repercussions.
Psychics like me and detectives, CIA agents, etc., like the guys that came up with this scheme know a lot more about the way people "really" think and act than politicians or any other group of people. We see people in their absolute private moments and when they can't hide anything ... each in his or her own way.
I will write more about this as I get through the book. I knew I was right about this!!! I saved a printout from the internet site and immediately got into a friendly argument with my daughter who thought I was crazy.
But I'm not :-)
It is probably impossible to implement this in America which has its peculiar Purtian ways of denying the realities of human nature but it is clear to me that this market would "motivate" people in just the right way to know what they know -- and just the right kind of people, too, the street-smart kind with their ear to the ground.
"The stars are only the father of your fate. The mother is your own soul." - Johannes Kepler
See my article ON ANCIENT AND COURT ASTROLOGERS including Brahe, Galileo and Kepler, three of the world's greatest astronomers.
See my article ON ANCIENT AND COURT ASTROLOGERS including Brahe, Galileo and Kepler, three of the world's greatest astronomers.
Tuesday, August 03, 2004
Pfc. Jeremiah Smith of Fulton, Mo holds Niki,
whom he and his fellow soldiers in Iraq adopted.
(Photo courtesy of Jeremiah Smith)
It may be of interest that there is an organization which is helping Iraqi soldiers bring pet dogs back to America with them. My friend Gail Fliesbach let me in on this information. To learn more ... Be sure to visit Buddies, Men, Dogs and World War II to see how the grandfathers of these guys handled the same situation.
Sunday, August 01, 2004
MY NUMEROLOGY REPORT [email style] from Merri Kung
Nancy holding a piece of bread at her birthday party ...
caption: "It's my birthday and I can eat all the bread I want!"
THE REPORT
Hi Nancy- Happy Birthday !
But of course you're a 33 / 6 - the universal mother / teacher / cosmic father. But you're not a softie either...you've got a head for business. Practical. Strong. You teach and care in a way some would call tough love, but it's not tough hard/mean/not nice love - it's tough "SEE THE TRUTH WHY DON'T YOU!!" love.
You grew up as a little mommy figure to those around you - which was no skin off your back because you're one of those people/women equipped in life to care for others. Very motherly even at a young age. Nature or nuture for you? it's both. you're naturally that way, and your young life provided you with the practice to become perfected in your art,shall we say.
After 30, you went out into the world and developed the other part of you - the worldly woman. the Business woman. the sensible, practical, managerial and willful woman. and in your forties (39-48) , life turned upside down, around about and inside out . exhilerating, new experiences, new sensations, travel in body, heart, and mind...experiencing your physicalness if you hadn't before, it was fun, it was crazy, it was just a ton of "life experience" for you in your forties.
Now comes the really fun part - when your life focus turned to spirituality after 48...inward directed, from then til your next "birth" day...life has become about analysis, study, truly perfecting the systems of your life, nature - lots of nature is needed now (since the quest began), your mind, higher self, spirituality, beauty....you were probably always tooo busy in your life to take in all the beauty around you...you have been outward/others directed (or focused) for the first half of your life. now it's about you and your connection w/ all that is, all that is beauty, all that is god, all....
AND NOW - using all those wonderful skills you possess and have practiced to build this wonderful business of teaching, caring, and spiritually guiding others to through each persons own forrest of life...to fulfill your destiny which, ironic enough because you reach out and give to sooo many, this is for your nancy's independence (not necessarily alway financial - of course u understand, it can be emotional, etc...). for nancy to blaze a new trail in how this business is done, to do it nancy's own special way.
i feel so proud of you actually. u make me laugh. i see you as a tough cookie, really. But very warm and very loving, others are attracted to the safety under your wings, you're physically strong, very curvacious woman with lots of energy. beautiful. and just this little sparky einstein-ish don't try to get away with anything with me character.
Nancy holding a piece of bread at her birthday party ...
caption: "It's my birthday and I can eat all the bread I want!"
THE REPORT
Hi Nancy- Happy Birthday !
But of course you're a 33 / 6 - the universal mother / teacher / cosmic father. But you're not a softie either...you've got a head for business. Practical. Strong. You teach and care in a way some would call tough love, but it's not tough hard/mean/not nice love - it's tough "SEE THE TRUTH WHY DON'T YOU!!" love.
You grew up as a little mommy figure to those around you - which was no skin off your back because you're one of those people/women equipped in life to care for others. Very motherly even at a young age. Nature or nuture for you? it's both. you're naturally that way, and your young life provided you with the practice to become perfected in your art,shall we say.
After 30, you went out into the world and developed the other part of you - the worldly woman. the Business woman. the sensible, practical, managerial and willful woman. and in your forties (39-48) , life turned upside down, around about and inside out . exhilerating, new experiences, new sensations, travel in body, heart, and mind...experiencing your physicalness if you hadn't before, it was fun, it was crazy, it was just a ton of "life experience" for you in your forties.
Now comes the really fun part - when your life focus turned to spirituality after 48...inward directed, from then til your next "birth" day...life has become about analysis, study, truly perfecting the systems of your life, nature - lots of nature is needed now (since the quest began), your mind, higher self, spirituality, beauty....you were probably always tooo busy in your life to take in all the beauty around you...you have been outward/others directed (or focused) for the first half of your life. now it's about you and your connection w/ all that is, all that is beauty, all that is god, all....
AND NOW - using all those wonderful skills you possess and have practiced to build this wonderful business of teaching, caring, and spiritually guiding others to through each persons own forrest of life...to fulfill your destiny which, ironic enough because you reach out and give to sooo many, this is for your nancy's independence (not necessarily alway financial - of course u understand, it can be emotional, etc...). for nancy to blaze a new trail in how this business is done, to do it nancy's own special way.
i feel so proud of you actually. u make me laugh. i see you as a tough cookie, really. But very warm and very loving, others are attracted to the safety under your wings, you're physically strong, very curvacious woman with lots of energy. beautiful. and just this little sparky einstein-ish don't try to get away with anything with me character.
. . .
oh, and i forgot - this is your year to expand ! expand ! expand ! (so watch what you're indulging in too food wise ! ) what started in 2001 has taken root and sprouted - water it, love it, give it lots of sunshine and play time, watch it grow. Fun year - you're time to really get out there and be social, meet new people, expres express express yourself. speaking of expression, (i hit send too quickly last time) you are very musical...you're like an angel almost - sooooo feminine, so rich in sound, words.......your words are like songs....something very very artistic with you. cooking. do you ? you're so talented.
back to this year...ah- july was a little new beginning for ya...cool. hang out, relax, wait for things to develope in august, and september - get out there again. socialize! play...you need the fun. creative ideas flood your life this year....write them all down. and take your time next year to build your castle.
Doesn't she do a wonderful job? Would you like to have one, too?
Contact Merrie Kung if you'd like information on getting your own numerology report.
PICTURES OF THE BIRTHDAY PARTY ARE HERE
CLICK HERE.
OLD FARMERS ALMANAC The best days to quit smoking in August are August 5 and 15. How do I know? Because of the sign the Moon is in ... for those who don't know astrology, try the Old Farmers Almanac for "best times" during each month.