All posts by Alistair Jordan

Daily Divination 5/3/16 ~ Growth in Harvest

Today, two of the most positive runes appear to wish us well. In this reading we see our harvest, not just what we will reap but what we have earned. Those of us that have put in the time and the honest effort will see that returned to them by the gift of the growth cycle. We also see the acute effect of growth on that harvest, brought to us by the joy and bountiful nature of the Nordic god Ing.

rune 5316 doneJera, the 12th rune of the Elder Futhark and the first of our reading, represents the completion of a cycle. Like the 12 months in a year, the cycle completes and begins again. Jera represents the harvest, the fruitful end of the annual cycle, but more broadly reminds us of continued success through harmony with nature. By working with these cycles, putting in diligent work even when the harvest seems to be in the distant future, we ensure our that year after year we are fed. We work with faith, passion, and patience to secure our future needs.

Ingwaz is the rune of potency and growth. The rune was named after Ing who was later known as Freyr. He was one of the most important gods, loved and revered by all. He was the recipient of many sacrifices and blessings as the Norse people believed that their wealth, harvests, and fertility, depended on his benevolence and blessings. The symbol represents unity, harmony, and peace between peoples. It can represent a wholesome relationship in marriage and family and a safe and secure home. It also serves as a beacon of light for spiritual inspiration.

Together, we see the combined effect of these two extremely positive runes. We prepare for the harvest with hard work and excitement, all the while giving gratitude to those who have helped us in our path. As we do this we keep in mind the symbol of the great Ingwaz. A uniting force in this world, it reminds us that those around us want to help us to be successful. Those that love you  want to see you happy. They want to see you successful and will often help you along the way even when neither of you realize. Today, keep an eye out for this help in the form of inspiration that will light the path in front of you. Harmony, peace, and success are waiting.

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Daily Divination 4/30/16 ~ The Dawn After the Storm

If your week has been anything like mine, this Saturday reading should come as a relief. The runes today speak of the energy of dawn breaking through into the energy of the storm. Chaotic forces are at work to be sure, but when these forces have played out they settle into a state that lets in the light.

In fact, the chaotic storm is required to wash away stagnant energy that we so often get stuck in . Here we see the first rays of dawn breaking through and illuminating the way forward, and that will be a quite a sight to behold.

runes 43016 doneHagalaz, if you haven’t guessed yet, is our storm rune. It represents the chaotic forces of nature and suggests that the environment is ripe for an uproar of energetic clashing.

When Hagalaz appears, you should be on the lookout for rapid change and aggressive influences. It is a time for caution, yes, but more importantly it is a time to be aware. The unseen forces at work in your life are extremely active, and maintaining your composure in the face of these forces will draw them out into the light.

These forces might be positive or negative, and that is why it is important to let them appear as honestly as you can see them. Negative forces will shrivel and waste away, while positive influences get the chance to work with you, often becoming great assets to you. Adopting them will help you on your way, and you will continue on a bit lighter without the excess baggage of dark or unhelpful pressures.

Dagaz is the manifestation of a very different type of energy and suggests a time of clarity following darkness or obfuscation. This is why we refer to it as the rune of the dawn. When we wake to see a sunrise, we see the darkness gently lifted away by the first rays of light.

A dull, dim light followed by the rising of our great sun bringing warmth, life, and vitality to every organism on Earth. This profound sight plays out each and every day, though we are not always able to appreciate the magical magnitude of it. This rune is also referred to as the rune of the breakthrough.

It is interesting to note that many across the world will celebrate Beltane this weekend, the last of three spring fertility rituals in Pagan tradition.

In this, we ask for abundance in this year’s harvest and for the strength to turn this wheel of fortune once again. We celebrate the fullness of life by jumping through the fire. I am also reminded of the saying, “April showers bring May flowers” as we close this busy, chaotic, and often tumultuous month.

If you have found yourself in the storm this week, this month, or even this year, it is time to open up to a new light. The dawn is coming and it is bringing something completely new. It is a fresh start to your day and to your life.

If you let it, it will arrive pleasantly, gently, beautifully, and it will bring abundance and strength along with a new set of allies. Give thanks for this month and this storm, for it has prepared the way forward. May your May be ever so flowerful.

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Daily Divination 4/29/16 ~ Steed and Shield

Ehwaz and Algiz

Time to get on that horse, and bring along your shield. Today you are a knight in shining armor, ready to take on whatever dangers might be waiting. This auspicious reading is a special gift of strength and courage and will certainly help you through your day, and it ties in very closely with Tuesday’s reading, which had Algiz reversed, signaling caution. Today you are protected, and it is time to be bold. Let’s begin.

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Ehwaz is horse rune. It represents the steed that carried our ancestors through difficult times. The horse is not only a diligent worker but a trusted ally. People have relied on horses for millennia for accomplishing travel, work on the homestead, and even in battle. Like an old friend, people form loving relationships with their horses as they live and work together year after year.

The appearance of Ehwaz beckons the reader to consider partnerships in work endeavors, as committed partners are sometimes exactly what we need to get through especially difficult times. We rely on others and we allow them to rely on us, knowing that we will all struggle occasionally.

Algiz is the rune of protection, making it the most powerful rune for defense. It provides the receiver with a protective barrier that wards off attackers, making it a strong tool for maintaining safety in your home or on your person. The symbol itself resembles one reaching up towards the heavens, taking refuge and giving thanks to the divine. Algiz can also predict success in a search, quest, or some other enterprise, suggesting that it’s time to take on riskier ventures with your personal protection at a high.

Together, we see Algiz acting on Ehwaz, or the shield of protection acting on the steed runes. Both of these have a strong sense of protection, as the partnership we see in the horse rune protects you through lean times. So today, it is important to see yourself as enabled through these things. You have partners that care about you, love you, and work hard to support you in any way they can. You have the protection and the love of the divine, which works constantly to assure your safety, your ascension, and your happiness as well. You have everything you need and you are a force to be reckoned with. Go out today and be everything you are meant to be.

Alistair & Forest

 

Daily Divination 4/26/16 ~ Watch Your Resources

Today’s reading, while maybe intimidating, conveys the wisdom of the many generations that have faced famine and hardship. Those that live by this wisdom thrive in the face of difficulty. The lesson: Be a careful steward over your resources.

rune 42616 doneNauthiz is the rune of famine. It represents scarcity in all things, and it signals the onset of lean times. When you pull this rune, your first thought will probably be negative. We crave abundance and we hope to avoid times of famine, but if you take another moment to think about that you will realize that you can provide plenty by applying discipline in times of both famine and prosperity. Being responsible with your resources might mean saving money when there is extra. Maintaining a rainy day fund and knowing that your wealth is increasing provides a great sense of security and provides practical protection against famine.

Algiz reversed can also be a warning. In its upright stance it is the rune of protection. It protects us from attacks of all kinds and its energy can provide a safe space for you to live and grow. Its reverse shows the lowering of these protective barriers, which can mean being at risk of attack but can also mean increasing personal freedom. To grow fully, we must constantly push against the boundaries of our comfort zone. When we publish creative works we open ourselves to criticism from the outside world. This can be very uncomfortable but it is necessary to be challenged to build confidence.

Taken together we have two distinct meanings. One is to take stewardship of your resources and take care to maintain your reserves. This can apply to your health as well as your wealth, and advises us to apply discipline to our consumption in every way. Sometimes we find ourselves in immediate abundance. An unexpected check or an inheritance might feel like a wad of cash burning a hole in your pocket but it is important to apply this wealth to your budget in a way that contributes to your long-term prosperity. This reading might also suggest being on the lookout for new sources of wealth or fulfillment. It reminds us that to pursue new opportunities often means leaving one’s comfort zone and acting on faith. Do not be afraid if this applies to your situation. New ventures can be daunting and full of risk, but ultimately must be pursued if we are to succeed.

Alistair & Forest

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Daily Divination 4/23/16 ~ Storm in Motion

Today’s reading comes with a strong theme of movement and change. Powerful, maybe even chaotic forces are at work but do not let that scare you.

Disruption breaks us free of our old habits and even our old selves. That which doesn’t serve us anymore can be set free to create space for new habits, new mindsets, and new opportunities. Let’s dig in.

Runes 4/23/16

Hagalaz is our first rune, the storm rune of disruption. It gives us our modern letter ‘H’ and translates to hail, reinforcing the idea of the storm of natural disruptive forces. It warns of challenges and possibly the delay of action due to unforeseen complications. Like many others that can be perceived as negative, it takes a deeper interpretation to see their necessary place in your life.

Strong winds that change or even destroy your plans may save you from going too far down the wrong path. They might highlight weaknesses in yourself or your projects that may need to be mended and strengthened before moving forward. A house that cannot survive a storm is not a safe house for you and your family.

Our second rune is Raido, the rune of the journey or the travelers rune. Above all, it is linked to motion. It may indicate that travel is necessary or that movement is required, or the travel or return of loved ones. To move up one level, it can also refer to the spirit quest of your life.

We humans are busy by nature, moving constantly just to stay alive and always striving to make things better. We yearn for experiences outside of our comfort zone and we long to see exotic places. True travel is one of the most liberating experiences we can have, and it rewards us with a sense of wonder. We see our small place in this world and though it is small, it is grand.

Together we see the storm in motion. Raido acts on Hagalaz to produce change and movement in an already chaotic environment. The forces at work will be jarring for sure, and often frightening. Today, look at it for what it is. The movement is you moving forward through your life unafraid. You come upon challenges and you stare them down. You walk through doors and you take opportunities that were too frightening just last year. You’re a new person with a new set of strengths, and a vast knowledge of who you are and the mission you are on. Carry on and do not give in to worry or doubt. You are ready to stand in your power and take on whatever may come.

Alistair & Forest

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Daily Divination 4/21/16 ~ Fire & Ice

No doubts on this one, this is the ultimate meeting of two very powerful, very opposing runes. Before we dive in, let’s consider the day that we are talking about. Yesterday we celebrated cannabis day and tomorrow we move on to Earth Day, and with a full moon to top it off. Mars is officially in retrograde and soon 4 other planets will join. This is a powerful time with powerful forces at work. Be weary, be sharp, and be well. Taking care of yourself during these uncertain times is paramount.

rune42116 doneFirst we draw Kenaz, the rune of the torch. The beacon light, or torch light, is what leads the way in time of darkness and uncertainty. We travel with a torch to light our next few steps ahead, illuminating who and what is immediately around you. Kenaz suggests the burning flame of creativity, vision, and inspiration that is necessary for new growth. The fire of life fuels you, giving you a reason to get up in the morning and meet the day with fervor, skill, and passion.

Compare this fire energy with Isa, the Ice rune, representing stillness and the slowing of movement. Isa calls on us to draw inward during these times and seek clarity through patience. This rune will often come to us when it is time to slow down and take care of ourselves, perhaps after a long period of hard work or excessive fun. In either case, the rejuvenation that accompanies periods of rest is what prepares us for what’s ahead. This gives us the chance to review our intentions and how they compare to our habits. Hopefully, we use this energy to elevate ourselves to live the lives we truly want, and truly deserve.

Together, we see Ice acting on Fire. This time of year, spring in full swing, spirits and kinship high, we see time speeding up and plans coming into fruition. We see connections being made, paths becoming fulfilled. The time is ripe to make great strides ahead in your mission. Whether you achieve this or not will depend on your ability to adapt to the circumstances and maintain your composure in the midst of a whirlwind of opposing forces. You will see emotions run high and you will see relationships strained, especially when they rest upon half truths.

Keep in mind that this time is powerful. We are all powerful beings full of light and intention, and we are all ready to bloom. Keep your head up and be strong, positive changes are coming to you. If you are feeling rushed, overwhelmed, or like you might need a minute to catch up, this is your day. Where we see delay we also see preparation. Consider all of the activity around you to be of benefit to you. Consider it to be the breath of fresh air that you need to forge ahead. Breathe it in and be well on your journey.

Alistair & Forest

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