Burning Man Festival is kicking off today in the Black Rock (Nevada) Desert with the climactic “Burning of the Man” on Saturday September 4.  The Burning Man is symbolic of as many things as there are people who participate, unique to each individuals imagination.

A collection of wide interests in art and culture and freedom of self expression is revealed in all who participate. Clothing is optional.

This years theme of the Burning Man Festival is Metropolis: The Life Of Cities.

Excerpt from Molly Steenson’s essay on Burning Man

You belong here and you participate. You’re not the weirdest kid in the classroom — there’s always somebody there who’s thought up something you never even considered. You’re there to breathe art. Imagine an ice sculpture emitting glacial music — in the desert. Imagine the man, greeting you, neon and benevolence, watching over the community. You’re here to build a community that needs you and relies on you.

You’re here to survive. What happens to your brain and body when exposed to 107 degree heat, moisture wicking off your body and dehydrating you within minutes? You know and watch yourself. You drink water constantly and piss clear. You’ll want to reconsider drinking that alcohol (or taking those other substances) you brought with you — the mind-altering experience of Burning Man is its own drug. You slather yourself in sunblock before the sun’s rays turn up full blast. You bring enough food, water, and shelter because the elements of the new planet are harsh, and you will find no vending.

You’re here to create. Since nobody at Burning Man is a spectator, you’re here to build your own new world. You’ve built an egg for shelter, a suit made of light sticks, a car that looks like a shark’s fin. You’ve covered yourself in silver, you’re wearing a straw hat and a string of pearls, or maybe a skirt for the first time. You’re broadcasting Radio Free Burning Man — or another radio station.

You’re here to experience. Ride your bike in the expanse of nothingness with your eyes closed. Meet the theme camp — enjoy Irrational Geographic, relax at Bianca’s Smut Shack and eat a grilled cheese sandwich. Find your love and understand each other as you walk slowly under a parasol. Wander under the veils of dust at night on the playa.

You’re here to celebrate. On Saturday night, we’ll burn the Man. As the procession starts, the circle forms, and the man ignites, you experience something personal, something new to yourself, something you’ve never felt before. It’s an epiphany, it’s primal, it’s newborn. And it’s completely individual.

find out more at BurningMan.com

Check out the infamous Metropolis here

To catch a glimpse of Burning man, check out this brief overview.

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The Sun moves into Virgo on the 23rd, so we’re featuring Virgo’s Uranus Special.

For the Uranus Special for your Sign visit the Daily Horoscopes by Nadiya Shah at NadiyaShah.com

Astrology For the Week of August 22 – 28, 2010

NADIYA’S ZODIAC STARCAST BY NADIYA SHAH, M.A.

THEME OF THE WEEK:
Most of the month so far has been particularly intense. This week will be most welcomed. We find the opportunity in what has felt challenging and take consequential steps. Each one of us is celebrating in our own way. It will be a great week, enjoy!

ARIES (March 21-April 19):
We can define wisdom in many ways. Some think of it as knowledge, experience, or the ability to think clearly. Others consider it a more intuitive phenomenon. However you define it, you’ve got it now. Use it to understand what has felt baffling.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20):
A stylish persona is exuding from you now, though you may be oblivious to it. Things are better than they have been and are only improving. Your image is calling forth supporters who see your creative genius and want to be a part of it.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20):
Every color, every voice, every texture feels bright and alive. Your senses are on high alert now. You feel a newfound gratitude for all that has changed. Your challenges have brought you to this glorious moment. There was always wisdom to it all.

CANCER (June 21-July 22):
Your heart is Rock Solid. You know the way forward and are determined on a course of action. Now you have to take the step. Any step will do as long as it is forward. Nothing can or will stop you now. Victory is close as long as you follow up your urge with deed.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22):
Every Shakespearean tragedy has a moment of catharsis. The protagonist has a moment of clarity before the final scene is called. It does not have to be as dramatic, but there is a moment of truth for you. It leads to a powerful change of direction.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22):
Nothing that is appreciated is wasted. However, sometimes we can misuse our resources. You are dreaming of a hoped for possession. You can have anything you want in life, but some things have their time. There is no rush. Be patient and it will be yours in due time.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22):
You have the power now to make a positive and drastic change to your daily routines. You’ve been in a process of negotiation and amendment as you have been presented with a variety of circumstances. Now you know what will work best. Commit to it.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21):
You may not be appreciating the power at your fingertips. You can bring into alignment what you do each day with you deepest desire.  It only asks that you be willing not just to dream, but to live it in each moment. Direct yourself and see your life shift radically for the better.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21):
You are far from alone and nowhere near stranded. There is a feeling of isolation. If you like, it can sadden you. However, a better use would be to allow the comfort of intelligent time alone. Reflection will lead to appreciation of how much support is available to you.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19):
There was a period during the French Revolution where any social commentary would put you at risk for execution. Thankfully, most of us live in kinder times. You don’t like the way things are and fear speaking your mind. Speak kindly and it will be well received.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18):
Yes, there will be more responsibilities now, especially if you choose to indulge a possibility that could bring real wealth into your life. However, accountability is the price of freedom. Find a balance to cultivate a new income bracket.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20):
All of us want to be appreciated. You feel rebellious and think the voices of others don’t matter. When living true to yourself they don’t, but there is a need to acknowledge that you are not an island. Appreciate the people around you to affirm your freedom.

By: Nadiya Shah © 2010

…Read your daily forecast by visiting http://www.nadiyashah.com

Nadiya Shah, M.A., Cultural Cosmology and Divination, UKC. For expanded forecasts and more, visit Nadiya’s website at http://www.nadiyashah.com

Nadiya Shah is a successful Sun Sign Columnist with a dedicated Internet fan-base and is one of the few people in the world to hold a Masters degree in the Cultural Study of Cosmology and Divination (UKC). She is currently completing her first book.

Nadiya Shah also offers an Astrology Course in e-book format at Symbolic Living.

E-book – Astrology – Interpretation & Divination by Nadiya Shah

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The Sun is currently in the Sign of Leo, so we’re featuring Leo’s Uranus Special.

For the Uranus Special for your Sign visit the Daily Horoscopes by Nadiya Shah at NadiyaShah.com

Astrology For the Week of August 15 – 21, 2010

NADIYA’S ZODIAC STARCAST BY NADIYA SHAH, M.A.

THEME OF THE WEEK:
Our changing times are being reflected in the sky. A configuration known as the “Grand Cardinal Cross” hits a milestone this week. Expect news of changes to marriage laws. Personally, we are driven to work hard for our ambitions. It will be a great week, enjoy!

ARIES (March 21-April 19):
Our idols are meant to inspire us to be better. But when we compare ourselves to others, we hold an idealized version of them, and no one is ever ideal. We all hold imperfections and weaknesses. Be mindful of this when admiring one of your role models.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20):
Achilles was celebrated as a great warrior who also had a deep vulnerability. You feel the need to put forward a strong front and don’t want to let others know of your disappointments. If you share your deepest feelings, they won’t be used against you.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20):
A key supporter appears to flip their position. While at first you may feel disappointed, you must also be honest with yourself. You don’t need their support to do what you most desire to do. Be independent and live your own ambitions.

CANCER (June 21-July 22):
Architectural designs represent the philosophy of a culture. They become physical representations of what the society at the time thought beautiful and important. Your own home is going through changes now. Be more self-directed so that the modifications hold meaning for you.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22):
An opportunity comes disguised as an increase in responsibility. It may look mundane on the surface, but if you choose to squeeze all the juice out of it, you could learn a lot and set yourself on a more fortunate path. Don’t be afraid to take it on. It will bring better things.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22):
A renewal of Greek thought flourished during the European renaissance. You are experiencing a revival of your own. Long forgotten childhood ambitions are coming to the surface now. If you don’t take a chance, you will never know if it will work. It’s worth a shot.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22):
Those who leave a legacy have a name that becomes a symbol. The representation can become bigger than one’s own life. You have been content living a quiet life. However, in the smallest moments you now have the potential to build something grand. Pay attention to the details.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21):
Half the people on the planet have never eaten an apple. The fruit that many in the world consider commonplace is exotic for others. You are taking for granted an aspect of your life that is a great blessing. Look at what you now curse most and consider it from another perspective.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21):
The Magna Carta was annulled 10 weeks after it was written, but once the blue print was in place, human rights could only grow stronger from then on. You thought you were moving forward, but your plans were recently scrapped. Don’t let it fool you. This week, you revive a great idea.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19):
You feel an increasing desire to stay close to home, but higher ambitions are calling. You feel driven to work harder than ever. Make sure you find the right balance you need between pushing forward and spending time in rest and reflection to make your actions more effective.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18):
The process may be tedious, but a passport is needed if we are to enjoy the pleasures of international adventures. You are dreading a necessary protocol. However, you know you must comply if you want to do what you love. Trust the process and make it fun.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20):
You desire to make a financial breakthrough, but may wish that there was an easier flow to bring about prosperity. You can make progress, but it will require that when the small opportunity presents itself, you run with it with all you have.

By: Nadiya Shah © 2010

…Read your daily forecast by visiting http://www.nadiyashah.com

Nadiya Shah, M.A., Cultural Cosmology and Divination, UKC. For expanded forecasts and more, visit Nadiya’s website at http://www.nadiyashah.com

Nadiya Shah is a successful Sun Sign Columnist with a dedicated Internet fan-base and is one of the few people in the world to hold a Masters degree in the Cultural Study of Cosmology and Divination (UKC). She is currently completing her first book.

Nadiya Shah also offers an Astrology Course in e-book format at Symbolic Living.

E-book – Astrology – Interpretation & Divination by Nadiya Shah

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Oh Leo, how we love thee for your confident expression!

It’s a great time to tackle all those tasks you’ve been putting off.  Start anew and fresh and harness that glorious Leo energy.

Don’t get too self-aggrandizing in your attitude though.  It’s likely for many.  Keep your ego in check.  Leo energy is amazing, but can certainly become too much.  Like being out in the hot sun too long, it will suck the energy right out of you.  Note other’s ego’s around this time. Don’t make it a contest of who can roar the loudest.

All that confidence and energy to start a new project and express yourself may come off as arrogant, even a show-off,  if you don’t consider how you’re being perceived by others.  Be yourself, just find the balance with your confidence with the best intentions for all those around you. Think about first-impressions if you’re meeting new people.  Be on your best behavior while being true to yourself.

This is a good time to hang out with your cat if you have one, or learn more about the Sphinx or Bast cat of ancient Egypt.  If your fashion or environment is a bit bland, try a leopard print anything, from a shirt to a chair cushion.  Going blonde could put you in that Sun energy frame of mind. Have fun.  Remember the sun is a star.  Leo’s harness star quality, so can you. Shine brightly at this time, and feel good being yourself.

The Sun, the ruler of Leo, is in this shared energy with the New Moon which emphasizes all those great Leo qualities even more. Any creative urges you have right now, from the painting canvas, to the boardroom, to the bedroom, express yourself as you will.  You’ll get a lot in return from whatever you put your passion into.

This is a time of ambition.  That Sun is shining brightly.  In the 5th house the Moon and the Sun can put emphasis on children, and with Leo there’s that push to show them off.  Don’t embarrass them though.  If you go overboard with pushiness, well, just visualize those parents who push their kids so hard in sports, beauty contests and the like.  It gets to be too much.  Try to hold yourself back if you notice your children are not pleased with how far you insist on showing off.  Make sure you aren’t trying to live vicariously through them, that can be damaging to their psyche. Be an important guide while they tread their own path of discovery and self expression, don’t be a tyrannical dictator.  That will eventually lead to stifling them of their own unique power to be who they are in the world.

In your career, you’ll feel most fulfilled if you really put your emotions into being creative and keeping yourself on-the-ball with your endeavors will make you feel so much more confident.  You’ll be able to build upon your confidence and it will show in your work.  Anything you’ve worked on for a while now?  This is the time to show it off. Others will appreciate what you’ve put your blood, sweat and tears into.

Get yourself organized. This is the time to really get yourself ready for the autumn.  School is around the corner, and although it’s kind of depressing for many, think of all the opportunities a new year of education will bring you.  This Leo energy is supportive in figuring out how you want to put your best foot forward.  Have you changed and grown over the summer?

If you’re finding there’s a lot of drama around you right now from others, you might be feeling the need to engage in the escalation as days go by.  A better way of using your emotions is to put any drama aside that is counterproductive to your well being, and rather, go watch a dramatic play or film that moves you.  Step into an event full of excitement and energy like a wrestling match or Cirque De Soleil show, whatever pleases you to get that sense of drama you seek, but in a fun way.

Mercury is asking us to choose practically too, so if you need a new cellphone, laptop and all the devices required for your work and school year communications and organization ahead, choose what will serve you best.  Don’t just think about what would be the most fun, think about what’s most useful all around. Make those purchases, plan ahead, make the most of your money and keep your bank account organized.

Diet and nutrition are important now.  Choosing more responsibly for your health and the impact on the environment can be important.  This would be a good time to start a new regime of diet and exercise.  Again, don’t go overboard with your choices and try everything under the sun in one week, choose something and stick with it.  A little research is good to find out what’s right for you.  Don’t be too analytical that you can’t make a decision at all though. Use logic and practicality.

You may feel the need to try a lot of new things to expand yourself, but don’t forget about the tried and true routines that have supported you well in the past.  This may be a better time to plan on what you’d like to start anew, and combine the wisdom gained from those consideration with what has worked for you before.

You may also find some opposition happening in your love life.  You may not be seeing eye to eye on a newly adopted religious, philosophical or spiritual belief, or one of you is focusing more time on an interest than is healthy for your relationship to feel balanced. Sometimes people can get so much into their own dedication, they block out their significant other to the point of someone feeling left out.  We see this all the time in the movies and on television, but it might be happening in your own life these days.

Whichever side of the coin you’re on, let the other have some space but speak honestly about how you’re feeling an imbalance and discuss ways to make of it something that is unifying rather than divisive.  It likely will take time though so don’t expect everything to balance out overnight.  Be patient. Understand sometimes people do need a little space to focus on their efforts.

Spending some time doing a routine of jogging together, or other physical exercise could be helpful to find some balance. Instead of  nagging  each other about what’s different and what needs to change, use your energy towards doing something together that gets that bit of abrasive, and aggressive energy out.

There’s opposition with your enthusiasm and optimism right now.  It’s responsibility that is calling.  Jupiter wants you to grow, you want to expand, and your feeling the energy strongly, but there’s checks and balances that need to be considered.  It could be literally too.

Maybe you have loans to pay back that feel like they are stifling you from moving onward and upward towards those really inspired goals you have.  Remember, Saturns responsibility makes us grow, adapt and shows us how our steps have developed into what we are today. It’s your karma asking you to ensure you’re doing what needs to be done to get things in order.  This can be a very good thing for many of us.  We get to become very organized when we take the responsible approach, and this new moon in Leo is further helping us to make that clearer.

Because Jupiter is retrograde, take this opportunity to grow within. Expansion will happen soon enough.  For now, focus on all the things you can do that will utilize the Leo New Moon influences.  Everything will fall into place as it’s meant to.

There’s some exciting stuff coming up.  We’ll be sharing much more with you soon.

Please Click the Like Button below to share with your friends on Facebook.

This forecast has been written by Symbolic Living.  © 2010. All rights reserved.

Stay tuned for our regular installments of  New Moon and Full Moon Forecasts by Symbolic Living.

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Designed for controversy, these subjects have been a part of life and life’s taboo’s since the beginning of civilization.

Designed for sales.  Lady Gaga knows how to sell and parallels Madonna in many ways throughout by taking risks in demonstrating art through these archetypal subjects. She continues the one eye open, the other covered motif displayed in other videos many allude to conveying Horus eye symbolism. It appears a disheveled red heart is being carried with an A resembling a cross on it.

Smart marketing by touching on the most primal subjects we all can relate to.  It’s all been done before, it’s just now, with a little more money, and refinement in art and video, it looks a little more upscale.

Where there’s dark, there’s mystery and mystery makes you think and desire to know more.  Mystery = controversy = sales.

Primal, animal, occult, ritual, gothic. Gaga’s cloak reminds one of The Golden Dawn, Catholic or related ritual garments.

It is art. Reinventions of universal archetypal subject matter.

Upside-down Cross. Coffin. Phallic Symbol.

Religion. Death. Sex.

Primal battle between these subjects timeless interconnectedness symbolized by War – Military.

Hand Mudra Christian Symbol

Enjoy.

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Here is the first installment of what’s recently being talked about at Symbolic Living.

Astrology

Astrology: Can you tell what sign someone is?

Tarot

Get new insights into the meaning of the tarot

What Tarot Deck do you use the most?

Tarot: The Magician

The High Priestess

Minor Arcana – 04 – Four’s

Minor Arcana – 05 – Five’s

Minor Arcana – 07 – Sevens

Minor Arcana – 08 – Eight’s

Minor Arcana – 09 – Nines

Minor Arcana – 10 – Tens

Minor Arcana – 11 – Page’s

Minor Arcana – 12 – Knight’s

Mythology

Watch a few video’s on the development of cultural myths

video: symbols, psychology, personality, stars

video: The History of the Devil

Symbols

See Gypsy Bladesmith’s new project in creating a sword.

Egyption ribon twist.

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Dream Interpretation and Psychology

Other dimensional beings-experience

Dream about a bird

a dream…

Precious Gems

Art & Media: Creative Arts, Films, Books…

Ellen Degeneres Eleven Eleven?

Secret Cinema

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War IS the Answer!

Our Lady of Names

The Sacred Grove – Philosophy & Spirituality

Left Hand Path

See this wild video

Having a lot of Fun at Church!

Quantum Physics, Butterfly Effect

full moom ritual may 27 2010: hekate

Oak King and Holly King

Texts, Passages & Quotes

Power to become a child of God

History and Civilization

Video: explaining geomantic ley lines

Sci-Fi, Psi, Supranatural & Conspiracy Theories

Video: Psychic makes predictions on conspiracy theory, magick, occult, mason, aliens

Nazi and American occult connections and interdimensional technology/ufo’s

Video: The orion conspiracy: false flag alien attack, nazi, bluebeam

Communications and Media

Uh Oh. Facebook in hot water, privacy concerns again.

Smart dust

Social Transformation

History repeats itself

Interesting People

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Also

Nadiya Shah’s Course in Astrology is being formatted for a home-study e-book and will be available early June, 2010.

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The full moon On April 28th is bringing the need to feel secure and stable and it may not be easy to find that.  You may have sudden disruptions, even confrontations.  Again, if it hasn’t happened already, be aware the possibility is there. Be kind to yourself and others to make any situations better than worse.

You may be feeling the need to express some of the deepest parts of yourself, but please don’t overreact if someone disturbs you, that sting of the scorpion can be fierce, and you might be the one wearing the stinger.  If not, and you’re the one stung, either way you’ll both be sore for the experience.

Although emotions may be intense for the past few days and in the days to come, notice them before you react.  If a situation comes to you that you hadn’t expected, allow yourself to feel the emotions.  Life is about experience.

You may notice communications are really not working out well near this full moon and you may not be willing to get too involved in groups.  People who are too practical in their thinking might get on your nerves, or you might find their ideas aren’t jiving with how you feel and they seem to not be considering your feelings in a way that is emotionally supportive. A lot of emotions may come up that deal with sex, conception and birth.

You may also be feeling some strong feelings regarding other people’s money.  Signing contracts isn’t a good idea when Mercury is retrograde, but with the moon in Scorpio and in opposition to Mercury right now there’s extra precautions in business affairs.

There’s also a strong opposition happening now that will test establishments, order and responsibility with the influential need to tear down that structure with revolution.  Big or small, revolutions happen in our personal lives as much as they happen in the bigger scheme of things. The need for personal transformation will likely feel resistance with what feels recognizable.  Domestic responsibilities at home may be strongly conflicting with personal ambitions.  Some may be experiencing their family responsibility as feeling strongly opposed to their need for freedom with your circle of acquaintances.  Your social choices may not be supported by those you live with.  Try to find the balance.

There’s a lot of tension right now, and the full moon can emphasize that immensely.  Although there is the strong energy of Scorpio’s rulers bringing intensity remember everyone needs love. Give love and receive love.  Let it flow.  Jupiter shows us that the support is there when we have good intentions.  Allow yourself dignity and share it with others.  Positive affirmations and prayerful thoughts will ease any tension.  Reconnect with the earth.  Reevaluate your communication and connection to the more sensual parts of life to balance your mind.  Although your emotions may get in the way, that will soon pass and your mind will be clearer.  Self transformation is in the air.  It’s not always easy, but breakthroughs can happen when you hadn’t expected.  It may be intense, but you’ll pull through and be better for having the experience.

You’re always becoming a new person, Scorpio supports the idea of reincarnation. You are reincarnating in every moment into a new you. Every experience allows you to be born again into a new reality, take advantage of it, you have the power to choose.

Personal Perspectives:

I personally have been practicing full moon rituals and the next full moon of scorpio is on April 28, the 14th lunar day of the lunar month Taurus. Scorpio, a water sign, and ruled by Pluto or ancient mars, indicates emotional intensity and hidden things. Intuition is at a high point. Excessive emotional energy and passion during this moon. Pluto is the planet of transformation, so this energy is present also with scorpio.

On the personal side, this moon connects to my fourth house, meaning this area of my life can prosper and benefit for the next month. I know this because Scorpio rules my fourth house. This is one of the many uses of lunar astrology, tracking the benefits of the full moon. The fourth rules home and end of life issues.

When using lunar astrology, it is a good idea to know what the lunar day indicates. The 14th lunar day is rather neutral in western tradition, inauspicious in vedic tradition, and auspicious in global tradition. The traditions do not agree many times, so you have to follow the patterns long enough to know which one applies best to you.

Another significant factor is the change of the lunar day. In lunar astrology this occurs differently than what we’re used to with our gregorian calendars. Though location specific, on this full moon day, the 15th lunar day begins after 8:00 pm DST.

Also, pay attention to void of course moons. Important actions and decisions are usually avoided if possible during VOC. There is no VOC on this full moon day. Also note the day and planetary hours of full moons, or any lunar day when astrological magic, etc. are to be performed.

This full moon of scorpio is on a Wednesday, ruled by mercury and peaks during the planetary hour of mercury (DST 0718) or venus (natural 0618, which shifts the planetary day <but not the gregorian or lunar day> back to tuesday, because the day begins with sunset and occurs for me at 0634) for me at my hometown; planetary hours are location specific. Also, keep in mind that ancient astrologers did not use daylight savings time, so for astrological magic the natural time shoud be adhered to, not DST.

To enhance the effects of this full moon of scorpio, one would pick the planetary hour of mars, the ancient ruler of scorpio to perform a ritual. I know the pagans love to perform full moon rituals around midnight, but paying attention to the planetary hour’s ruler can be an additional benefit, for each planet represents different energies.

Wednesday, mercury’s day, good for divination, communication, teaching, etc.. Mars denotes energy, courage, anger, power, lust, banishing, competition, needle crafts and aggression. Pluto is not included as one of the seven ancient planets and is not used in lunar astrological magic.

Blessings in Light,
Mervakah

Mervakah is a member of Symbolic Living, passionate about Astrology, and a graduate of Nadiya Shah’s Astrology course.

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New moon’s are a good time to get started, and initiate a new direction for yourself.  Today the New moon is in Pisces, an emotional, intuitive water sign, the last in the zodiac before returning to Aries.

A new moon in Pisces indicates sensitivities may be strong catalyst to initiate changes. If you’re emotional to begin with, you may feel your emotional self more strongly at this time on an inner level. Your home and personal space may be where you feel more connected at this time, take advantage of that.

The moon is in conjunction with the Sun, Mercury, and Uranus.  Conjunctions show us that these planets have a stronger influence on one another, and are really connected at this time.  The Sun will be moving into Aries soon, but for now, the Sun is making it’s connection with the moon, and is still in Pisces.  When the New Moon officially arrives, the sun and the moon will be in the same degree in Pisces.

The Sun being masculine fire and the Moon feminine water these aspects are blending in Pisces with a conjunction.  This indicates that although their energies are generally opposite in nature, there may be less focus on the contrast of their natures needing to be reconciled.  Instead, more merging of their aspects for wholeness in your personality and emotional self awareness is taking place.  There is a reflective, mirror quality here in terms of their conjunction and this provides the opportunity for parts of your personality to be awakened at this time. This will come about through internalized emotions bringing you more clarity of who you are during the new moon. Your personality seen by others will likely be more in tune with who you are, and how you are feeling on a deeper, personal level. However, Saturn, as noted below, shows there are some challenges here.

Mercury is also bringing it’s influence in conjunction with the moon.  Your clarity of thinking and ability to analyze yourself through self awareness will be supportive in resolving any emotional parts of yourself.   What you think may have strong influence over your emotions too, so be sure to not let your thoughts and emotions feed each other in a negative way. The clarity offered by mercury now may make this easier for you, but still be aware of how your thoughts and emotions are working on each other. Because Pisces is compassionate, you may find your thoughts lend themselves to being more loving towards yourself and others.  This is important, because it will give you the opportunity to overcome hurdles with a more respectful and giving part of your self. Your thoughts will likely be drawn to the more mystical side of yourself, and you may feel the need to keep things a little more secret than usual. Making note of your dreams will be helpful and  try to stay organized in your thoughts if you can. Pisces corresponds to the 12 house, so make sure you don’t become too escapist.

In the new moon, we are in a phase of re-emerging who we are.  Sometimes at this point we’re getting very internalized.  Too much internalization of our emotions can sometimes lead to depressive states, so if you feel like this now, don’t despair because the moon will symbolically be revealing it’s light soon enough, your light will begin to emerge as well.  Mercury in this position to the moon may be indicating some light gossip may be noticeable from you and those close to you such as family members.

A strong sense of freedom is with you now, especially in terms of emotions.  This is Uranus merging with the moon.  Although you may express your emotions you may have some feelings still within.  It’s as though you want your freedom through personal feelings and emotions to be on your own terms, not what others may dictate to you.  Stepping away, and getting connected to yourself and doing something that lets you express yourself freely will be good for you.  Sometimes being too close to family and those close to you means there are barriers to fully feeling free.

This really speaks well to what’s going on with Saturn also.  Saturn is in opposition to the moon, so you may feel like you’re wearing a mask over your emotions.  Although there is tension here, remember that there is some strong aspects to the Sun and Mercury working with the moon.  So the tension with Saturn could be the tool to awaken a breakthrough in your personality and your ability to communicate those, by digging deep into your emotions.

Saturn is really having a wallop of a time, and is in opposition to a lot of these planets that are near the moon.  Venus, Mercury, the Sun and Uranus all have their work cut out for them.  Being in opposition to the Saturn there’s a lot of tension making things feel difficult.  Saturn opposing Venus means you may feel like your money situation isn’t so great, and may worry you.  Venus will move on soon enough, so don’t worry. God knows though, when money is tight, it can really play with our emotions.  Stay strong. If you can tap into your emotions and be aware of how they are a driving force behind your moods, actions and communications, you may find yourself having utilized the tension Saturn is placing on you to help you achieve goals of becoming a better you.  Although you may feel a burden of discipline and hard work, realize that these things always make us stronger and better in who we are.

Although Jupiter isn’t close enough to the other planets in Pisces to be considered highly influential, we can still see that just being there, in Pisces is enough to give us some hope that luck will be on our side and on its way.

Last week was a really difficult week for me, and it’s been noted that others haven’t had an easy go either. Wednesday last week Mars went direct.    With each of us having our own natal chart and planets in different houses, it’s natural for us to feel the Mars’ very direct energy play itself out uniquely in different aspects of our lives.   For me, I felt a strong sense of bearing down on my identity and it wasn’t easy.  The funny thing was, I had completely forgotten what day the Mars direct was going to happen on because I was so busy in my everyday life.  I wasn’t really in tune with what was going on Astrologically. Suddenly, in Mars fashion, out of nowhere conflict came into the picture.  I had no idea where all this drama was coming from.

Interestingly, Mars has been hovering around my Natal Mars, called a Mars return.  Here around my first house, it’s been moving around for some time in retrograde, then Wednesday it went direct, and did it ever make itself apparent. It wasn’t until a couple days later I realized Wednesday was precisely the day Mars went direct. The first house being about expression into the world, our outward projection, relating to our sense of identity it made total sense. Conflict over my identity. I realized though that after all was said and done Mars really was supportive, even though it felt like I was at war for a while.  That passionate, direct, willing individual personality shone through all the drama and created a stronger sense of self identity and awareness. Ego was there, of course I’m not perfect, but it was there in just the right amount to allow for the identity to stand strong and firm in who I am.

For me, it had a lot to do with my personal spiritual path.  Being open minded to world cultural beliefs isn’t always easy when others wish you’d choose their personal path and make your own as a replica of theirs.  Each of us though have our own lives, we each see the world in a slightly different way, which makes us unique and in my opinion makes for a much more interesting world. We’re all drawn to things in a natural way in life that resonates specifically with us, and aligns with what feels right to who we are.

Speaking of Mars, as a note, the Ides of March was a Roman celebration of the god Mars and of course is the day Julius Caesar was killed.

I think this week, the new moon shares with us the awareness that we have the opportunity to become renewed in who we are.  It isn’t always easy.  Saturn shows us there is work to be done, but it will be worth it, and we have support and empowerment from nearby planets. We’ll delve deep into our emotions, or if we’ve already done that recently we have the opportunity to look at the lessons and renew ourselves as the moon supports us to grow.  Many of us may find our personalities and how we communicate who we are to the outside world from our inner thoughts will be challenging.  We may find some conflict there, but we’ll be more attuned to speaking our truths by knowing ourselves that much better. Like tides in the ocean, the moon pulls us upwards, and in waves of emotion and self realization we rise.  The full moon is in a couple weeks.  By then you’ll be shining bright.

This week, don’t let your emotions take over your character to the point of self sabotage, to yourself or to others.  Utilize that inner you, and all those feelings to know yourself better.  You may feel discouraged at points, but remember there is support.  Tap into it. You may feel the need to make sacrifices for others, but please not to the point where you lose yourself in the process.  You can be in the service of others, and likely compassionately so, but take care of yourself too. Find the balance.

© SymbolicLiving.com

Course is Astrology at SymbolicLiving.com

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Telephone

Famous Eyes
The Mysteries of Fame

Today’s pop music culture is increasingly opening a window to The Mysteries. What Mysteries? The mysteries of ancient cultures, with a strong focus on the most mysterious of all – Egypt, Babylon and their symbolism.

Beyonce, Lady Gaga, Rihanna, Jayz, Kanye West and friends are currently at the top of the pop culture phenomenon which could be called the fame pyramid, looking out from the all seeing eye on their audience. One eye, gloves, baphomet, pentacles, Saturn, halo’s, pyramids, checkered floors are just some examples of the increasing use of symbols in music videos. These have been used before in the past by musicians, including the ultra famous David Bowie and Madonna. Recently they are becoming more prominent and frequent by pop-artists.

From a strictly marketing perspective, this symbolism could be placed strongly in videos to capture the wonder and curiosity of the audience. Fame, and super-stardom after all, is dependent on the audience wanting to know more about an artist. A factor strongly relating to the fusion of their persona with their art. This then develops an image of who they are, much like a symbol. The power of their image therefore holds meaning that relates to the viewer, yet still contains distance enough to continuously offer more interpretation. There’s more to unfold. The human persona therefore becomes the symbol to be interpreted.

To be a player in the high-end world of pop culture, a musicians impact is not only dependent on their music, but the symbolic representation of who they are. Increasingly the persona is uniting with powerful, symbolic imagery through photography and video to create an illusion of grand proportion.

Today’s pop artists reach heights of recognition and wonder akin to the mythology of Gods and Goddesses in ancient times. Who they are spans the globe connecting to the minds of billions. Concerts are designed to be an almost mystical experience with the star nearly being glorified as a God or Goddess. There is no coincidence in the use of the term “star” to label these artists. We’ve long been fascinated in wonder about the heavens. In the celtic druidic tradition, the Bard was the musician who shared the mystical stories, divinity, and were the tellers of the sacred stories of the mythological heroes. Now the musical artist, has become the story as the mythology surrounds who they are.

Much has been said and done in the industry and little is shocking or controversial these days. The appeal to the audiences desires of wanting to know more must be continuous, and reinvented regularly to keep things interesting. The general public are slightly familiar with some symbols in passing, yet vaguely aware of their meaning. This sets the perfect stage for mystery to provoke their attention further while also becoming a means of communicating with the audience in a subliminal way. Art by its very nature holds a variety of meanings and a lot of mystery dependent on the eye of the beholder.

When The Secret came out, it created quite a stir. It spread like wildfire, just as gossip does. We know, after all, pop culture is largely based on gossip contagiously spreading from one medium to the next, gaining interest along its path.

Gossip popularity reveals the human condition – peoples natural need to know more, and marketers take advantage of the opportunity. The Secret, certainly was named with clever marketing appeal. Everyone just had to know what the secret was right?

Now the secrets are embedded in lyrics, video’s, fashion and musicians personas. Often they are hidden in video’s only apparent to the analyst while others are dominantly apparent before the viewers eyes.

One can not know for sure who is the catalyst for the use of the mysteries in pop culture, whether it be artist, producer, cinematographer, collaborative development or other. What we do know is they are present, and considered an important part of today’s pop industry attraction. It’s not a fad that ancient culture’s symbols have been fascinating people for ages.

To perceive positively or negatively. It’s a matter of choice.

Where mysteriousness is present, conspiracies will assuredly follow in the mainstream and not surprisingly are easy to find. Remember also that conspiracies are often interpretations of bias meant to compartmentalize the subject into an ideology, depending on the interpreters personal and religious world view. Most usually the nature of a conspiracy theory is a negative message in general.

Are producers simply interested in ancient cultures? Are they interested in magical practices? Some say their magic isn’t limited to marketing the artists through the development of a mysterious persona; some believe they are using the symbols in video’s as part of powerful ritual magic. Others feel those in charge are freemason’s who have the knowledge and intention to convey the subliminal meaning of the symbols.

According to current conspiracy theories, Lady Gaga is considered the poster child for the Illuminati, and Beyonce’s alter ego Sasha Fierce is possessed by Lucifer. People are now wondering if the “good girl gone bad”, Rihanna, has actually gone to the dark side and is possessed by demons. From his Rocawear line designs, his seemingly contagious use of the pyramid sign (diamond), to his “secret” handshakes with Kanye West and his continuous, obsessive reference to the Rockefellers, JayZ is touted as a Freemason.

Conspiracies usually elaborate on fearful interpretations, and swing either way in terms of lack of awareness to the “highly illuminated”. One must ask the question though, where are those beliefs rooted from, and how are they used to influence the interpretation of the symbolism. Are those who use them, compartmentalizing the symbolism according to their own intentions and thus creating an illusionary meaning based on their ideologies?

In terms of conspiracies, it can not be known for sure who chooses to develop the popularly interpreted meaning, which is usually the negative interpretations as conspiracy theories go. Are the negative interpretations what the artists and producers are interested in projecting – an underlying conspiracy? Is it the viewer who is interpreting the imagery from the perspective of fear that are overshadowing the symbolism? Or are both sides lost in their ideologies that blasphemes the sacredness of ancient cultural spirituality and knowledge in sacred symbolism, veiling it in false views? Are the nature of the symbols being twisted for Dark Arts or are these people deeply interested in the shadow side of reality? Is it simply a natural aspect of art to incorporate symbolism.

In the West money is by far the most popular symbol. Is the use of the pyramid by today’s artists strictly representing money and thus what money can represent for power, the elite class, or negative connotations? Or are they praising their good luck, freedom and ability to enjoy the pleasures money can afford? Is the symbolism of the pyramid being referenced in pop-media as extensive as the ancient mysteries cosmology and mysticism of Ancient Egypt, the Trinity of Christian mysticism or Masonry? Does the one eye open and the other closed symbolize big brother, does it hold a universal symbolism depicted in the eye of horus or does it represent harmony of opposites, as can be seen in depictions of the Anima Mundi?

We may not know the real reason for the increasing use of the symbolism. Is it for enjoyment? Do these stars have a genuine interest in ancient symbolism? Do they really know the deeper meaning or are they playing it at face value? Are they simply doing it for controversy? Or again, is it back to marketing the mysterious?

Universal archetypes are by their very nature complex, with deep meaning, which is why they are mysterious and can not be easily compartmentalized into one interpretation.

One can be assured, from the perspective of authentic ancient cultural symbolism, any mainstream fearful interpretations are falsely being abused. Ancient mysteries and their source are, at their very essence, about the ascension to the Limitless Light of the Divine, the source of all reality. This Source is expressed in exoteric terms by religions in various ways, and in pop-culture, but at it’s very core, at it’s esoteric essence, anything that is truly spiritually based is authentic Oneness with Divinity.

We invite you to share and analyze video’s, and artists persona’s. Provide your opinion on what these artists are now utilizing as a driving force to not only capture their audience curiosity but to also bring ancient cultural symbolism to the mainstream. Suggest your own videos, as a spot the symbols Feature.

also see Halo. Ego on Beyonce here

Alejandro Symbolism

© 2009-2010 Symbolic Living copyright.  Unauthorized reproduction prohibited.

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