Thursday, December 30, 2010

30 Dec 2010

The runes I drew today were Thurisaz reversed, Mannaz, and Inguz.

Thurisaz is the rune of Gateway, Place of Non-Action, and represents the god Thor.  Thurisaz advises that even when things are progressing, sometimes quickly, there is still a need and opportunity to slow and reflect over the past and look to the future in relation to where you are now.  Make no hasty decisions.  Slowly consider what actions you will take.  When you are ready, walk through the door.

Mannaz is the rune of Innocence.  The beginning starts with innocence.  This may mark the time of a new life and the advice is to look to past fond memories as a way to relax and prepare for things to come.  Remember to give yourself credit where it is due.  Take the opportunity to bring the simple things back to your life.

Inguz marks a time of Renewal.  Reviewing the goal and asking why you are pursuing the goal.  Once I am clear, the renewed actions will help me with my goal, even if I make a turn for a different goal.

Tonight's advice is Wunjo, reversed.  Wunjo is Joy and Light; Serenity; and Celebration.  I am advised things may be slow coming into being.  Everything is a test.  Even though things are slow, I have come a long way and I can take comfort in knowing that.  Focusing on patience and perseverance, I can celebrate the successes along the way.  There is work to be done, sure, and things to celebrate along the way! 

Wednesday, December 29, 2010

29 Dec 2010

Today's selection was Eihwaz, Ehwaz, and Wunjo.

Eihwaz is the rune of Defense, Avertive Power, and Yew Tree.  Defending oneself from things that cause stress is the message of this rune.  For example, when a winter storm warning is in effect, it is a good idea to work from home, if you can.  Deciding is one thing, the harder part is in the doing.  Get things in order and wait for the path to become clear.

Ehwaz is the rune of Forgiveness.  Forgiveness is important for funding the ability to move onto the future.  Mending the past, be it forgiving others, asking for forgiveness, and forgiving ourselves, makes the future easier to travel because past transgressions have been put to rest.  As we clean out the corners of our lives, we clear out the way for the future.

Wunjo represents Celebration.  Enjoy the milestones you have crossed.  The successes.  In this case, the success of hosting a family holiday without a fight or disagreement.  Enjoying the holiday!  Cooking for company and not ruining a meal.  The little things are important as are the large successes!

Mannaz, reversed, is the task to work on tonight.  Mannaz is the rune of Self, Innocence, and Loving Kindness.  Know thyself.  If you feel blocked, start with being honest with yourself, working by yourself, without help from others.  Innocence is the starting point in all things.  It may mark the ending of a cycle.  Remember gentle times, things, and people.  Looking back on things we are fond of can provide healing needed for the new things coming ahead.  Innocence leads the way to practicing Loving Kindness.  Treat others with kindness, including ourselves, as we don't know what trials and tribulations they are facing in their lives.  Everyone needs a kind word.  You never know when you will make someone's day!

Tuesday, December 28, 2010

28 Dec 2010

Today's runes were a triple bonus!  Gebo, Laguz, and Fehu!

Gebo is the rune of Gifts and Partnerships.  The gift part is easy as it is my day.  Partnerships because I am making progress with my relationship with my parents and I found a reference book for a project that I am working on with my boyfriend.

Laguz is the rune of Humor.  How can you not see humor in a really good day?  We are making progress on the obnoxious puzzle I picked out.  We also visited a museum and a kitchen store.  It was a good day, for sure!

Fehu is the rune of Abundance.  The number of people to wish me well wishes for today and the day in itself.  Definitely a reminder of how abundant my life is. 

Really couldn't ask for a better day.  I think I will bask in the "glory" and not draw for tomorrow, just ride out the high...

Sunday, December 26, 2010

26 Dec 2010

Happy Boxing Day!

Today's advice from the runes were through Raido, Fehu, and Thurisa. 

Raido is the rune of Journey, Communication, Union/Reunion.  Bringing two elements together into one.  Raido suggests asking what right action is and asking for help.  Removing resistances, little by little, and waiting for movement to occur again.  I will to will Thy will.

Fehu is the rune of Honesty.  Begin by being honest with one's self and Self, then with one's family and those they hold dear, finally, with other people who enter our lives.  Honesty relieves the pain in the heart through recognition.  It takes less effort to be honest.  Honesty helps us help others and requires courage.

Thurisa is the rune of Compromise when it comes to relationships.  Recognizing we cannot always achieve what we seek; middle ground is better than nothing.  Compromise supports movement and can create a win-win situation when properly applied.  Getting off stuck is the starting point; middle, and every point along the way.  All depends on the relationship and what stage of change the parties are in.  Remember not everything is meant to be yours; but keep at it and any change you make is an improvement.

Tonight's selection marks a return of Berkana.  And its right action is Fehu, the rune of Abundance.  Count your blessings, share them, share other blessings with people, especially those important in your life.  Give thanks for simple pleasures in life instead of focusing entirely on dreams and desires for our lives.  Find the best in your life as it is, right now. 

25 Dec 2010

Christmas' draw was Wunjo reversed, Eihwaz, and Kano.

Wunjo, the rune of Joy and Light, in its reversed presentation reminded me not everything sails smoothly.  A couple blips occurred, mostly the one-man-show getting dinner on the table and every dish in the house being washed...And organized.  All in an effort to help, relax and breath and things will work themselves out. 

Eihwaz addresses Denial.  Living life consciously and in the moment.  It also advises to have compassion for others.  Be of service, listen, be understanding.  Open yourself up to those important in your life and yourself.

Kano is the rune of Inner Peace.  Having a peaceful life is our right.  Achieving it is the challenge of life.  Even when we can't change something or someone, it is up to us to realize that, let it go, and be at peace.

Sowelu is the rune of Wholeness, Life Force, Sun's Energy; Compassion; and Healing.  Its the first night in 4 days that I haven't drawn Berkana.  I took it to mean that I was making progress, especially in my relationship with my parents.

Friday, December 24, 2010

24 Dec 2010

Ah, Christmas Eve, what a nice day!

Without further adieu, today's rune selection was Ehwaz reversed, Odin, and Raido.

Ehwaz is the rune of Movement, Progress, symbolized in the Horse.  Cautioned to be certain what I am or am not doing is appropriate.  I am reminded that what is mine will come to me.  I spent the day (the first full 24 hours) with my folks.  We toured town, we went out for lunch, I cooked dinner and even prepped the sides for tomorrow.  While doing all of this, I remembered to breath, not get excited, to take untimely advice for what it is (an effort to help), and tried to be apologetic for the too-cold pie dough that wasn't working for mom.  All in all, I did my best to be in the moment, calm, collected, and not feel invaded.  I know it won't happen over night; I did a pretty good job for the first day outa the gate.

Odin is the rune of the Divine.  A good day to reflect on the presence of Higher Power in life.  A reminder to let a Higher Power into your life.  Make the Higher Power your strength if you are tested beyond what you think you can handle.  Use your support system.  Ask for help.  Know that trials and tribulations are a reminder that things can be better and they can be worse.  What we think of as bad times only make the good times seem that much sweeter.

Raido is the rune of Harmony.  Recognizing the differences in each of us allows us to recognize the strengths and weaknesses we bring to a relationship.  Sometimes, it is difficult to let a person we don't share blood with into the fold.  Others, it is hard to let blood into the fold, especially when it appears to be reflecting our weaknesses back at us.  These trying times encourage us to look for the good in order to keep the peace.  Even it if is 20 minutes to ourselves away from everyone else, take that time to gather our thoughts, wits, and patience before leaping back into the fray.

Tonight's advice for tomorrow is recognizing the events that may interfere with Growth, address it through Prayer, and let the Right Action of Movement flow through Berkana reversed.  Focus on the steps to get to the results you want and work at removing obstacles in your path.  Remember to ask for help if you need it.

Thursday, December 23, 2010

23 Dec 2010

Today's rune selections were Jera, Berkana, and Raido.

Jera is the rune of harvest, fertile season, and one year.  It indicates that the things I am committed to will have a beneficial outcome, just not immediately.  It reminds me that I need to care for the project by putting in time, energy, etc. to feed it and cultivate it so it will grow and make it to harvest.  Perhaps today's focus is on family and changing my relationship with my folks.  Trying to change it so we are on equal footings instead of a parent-offspring dynamic.

Berkana has been making a number of appearances lately.  Berkana is the rune of Prayer.  Its appearance is appropriate, especially if I am developing a different relationship with my folks.  It will be a challenge to alter a relationship that has been the way it has for long time.  Definitely a good time to ask for help from a Higher Power.  And, from the support group.  Which oddly enough, I heard from one of them today...

Raido is the rune of Harmony.  Harmony with self and Self.  Harmony with loved ones.  Harmony at work.  Today, my focus was on the self and Self.  Harmony at the core is very important, especially if you want to tackle a relationship.  I need to remember that just because I want to change something doesn't mean the other person(s) wants to change it as well...

Tonight's rune is a reoccurring visitor: Berkana reversed.  I am reminded to not place my wants before someone else's needs.  I am also reminded to not become discouraged.  Ask for help from a Higher Power.  Ask for help from people involved.  Ask for help from my support group.  The right action calls for me to Persevere and I will make progress.  Keep at it!  Pay the price... 

Wednesday, December 22, 2010

22 Dec 2010

Today's runes include Uruz, Wunjo, and Hagalz.

Uruz is a rune of Strength, Man/Womanhood, and the Wild Ox. In Ralph Blum's book, "The Book of Runes," he lists 13 runes which make up the Cycle of Initiation.  The Cycle is the cycle of all aspects of life.  Uruz is one of those runes.  This rune makes a time of new growth.  There may be three areas where new growth could occur in my life: a new partnership with someone doing research; an opportunity to interact with an unknown fellow artist; and an opportunity to develop my relationship with family members.  Two out of the three have the potential to be challenging, similar to the efforts it took to domesticate wild animals such as the wild aurochs.

Wunjo appears again, making a time of Serenity.  Is it an indication that the partnership I wrote of earlier is timely and appropriate?  Is it an indication I should find peace in knowing my life is and will change?  And with change, comes challenges?

Hagalaz (I just realized that there are two spellings for this rune) represents the challenges faced in any relationship.  One of my challenges of today was to remember my place at work.  I find it challenging, sometimes, to remain professional while letting some of my "stories" contribute to the discussion.  A new project is proving to be a challenge.  I don't readily have access to the materials I need.  However, it isn't impossible to get them; just a challenge.

Strength and Serenity helped me face challenges today.  Thankfully, the challenges were small as compared to others I have faced in the past.

Tonight's advice for tomorrow is Berkana.  Berkana is another rune from the Cycle of Initiation.  Symbolizing growth, rebirth, and the Birch Tree.  Consider my issue and take slow, gentle, and penetrating action to remove resistances to reach the goal.  It is concerned with family.  Asking for help through Prayer will be appropriate especially as growth and change relate to family.  Who better to consult for help than a Higher Power?  Through Prayer I will learn what the Right Action will be.  In this case, the runes tell me that Isa is the appropriate action for tomorrow.  Isa indicates I need to reflect, be receptive, and to wait.  Wait to see what others bring to the party.  Be still, look for and remove obstacles, ask for help, and reflect on what has taken place in an effort to look to the future.

Tuesday, December 21, 2010

21 Dec 2010

Today's runes were Teiwaz, Jera, and Gebo.

Teiwaz represents Twi (the Sky God) and the Warrior.  It was a glyph that was painted on shields of the Vikings to embody Twi when they went into battle.  Today, it reminds me that I need to commit to the work needed to align my self with my Self.  It is a rune of strength.  The strength to remove obstacles, the strength to commit to actions which strengthen me, relations with others, and my faith in a Higher Power.  Patience is also embodied in this rune.  It has been my experience that patience is the greatest strength.  Some times it comes easily, more often than not, it is something that I have to work at having, have to commit to it.  And that can be very difficult, indeed.  The results of patience, however, can never be fully described!

Jera embodies Patience when it comes to healing runes.  Knowing a relationship is timely but having not reached the desired outcome is probably one of the hardest times to have patience.  Also, having patience with yourself by letting yourself gain knowledge or letting go of something before moving onto a new project or relationship is probably equally as difficult.  Striving to have patience for others is one thing, but applying that patience to oneself is equally difficult, if not more so.  It is important to experience the now; forgive the past; and look to the future without desiring after a specific outcome but still striving towards that goal.  Live in the present while remembering and applying the lessons of the past in an effort to achieve the future.

Gebo, when it comes to relationships, reflects Commitment.  Committing to yourself that you will learn from the past, forgive people who hurt you; ask to be forgiven for the hurts you committed; forgiving yourself for your short-comings; you will live in the Now; and will be cognizant of the future is the mark of a strong person.  When that person can commit to oneself and make the same commitment to a relationship with someone else, it is a mark of an even stronger person.  Often, we commit to someone else without committing to ourselves.  We are taught that it is selfish to focus on ourselves instead of others.  We are taught that we have to be paired off with someone.  We are not taught that the most important relationship to commit to is with ourselves and with our Higher Power.  When we make that commitment to ourselves and our Self, and live up to it, committing to other relationships, regardless of their worthiness, will come easier. 

Tonight's offering is Berkana, reversed.  Diligence is important when working to achieve goals.  Identify the obstacles, work at slowly and gently removing them, and continue on the path to growth.  Prayer may be needed to help remove obstacles.  We are not meant to travel alone, all the time.  Pray for healing, for righting wrongs, is always timely.  Gently removing obstacles and asking for help through prayer are important steps to Taking Right Action.  Tonight's right action is perseverance through Jera.  Keeping at it, not giving up, seeing things through.  Removing obstacles even when they seem to multiply like boats, guns, wire coat hangers, and troubles.  Keep focused on the task at hand.  Charge!!

Monday, December 20, 2010

20 Dec 2010

Gebo, Wunjo, and Jera were the runes for today. 

Partnership or gift is the message of Gebo.  Today, I did some research for a proposal I had for someone.  I presented it, and, it appears I have a new partnership!!  Wooo Whoo!  That is all I am going to say until we get it going...

The Gift is something entirely different.  I am going to try to do a reading for a friend.  I am not sure if I will do a one rune or a three-rune spread.  I am going to ask some questions first, then decide.  I have never done a reading for anyone else.  And, this will be via the computer.  Should be interesting...

Serenity is the symbol of Wunjo when you are healing...  It is an indication of how far you have come in your healing.  I have a feeling that I know the answer to my question, but I want to do more writing as it feels SO good!  Also, I don't think I have paid enough for the answers that I seek.  I am getting closer, therefore, I have patience to pay the price because the reward will be worth it.  I am on the right track.

Jera teaches Perseverance when it comes to Relationships.  Patience and doing what needs to be done.  It also means finding options to try to see if you can change things for the better, find what is missing and work to find a solution...  Not exactly bent on getting to a certain outcome, but by trying to tweak things to see if they fit better after the tweak...

Gebo is the rune for tonight's meditation: Gift or Partnership; Trust; and Commitment.  A new partnership forming requires Trust and Commitment.  Trust in the process and the people involved.  Trust that the goals and objectives are worthy of my/our efforts.  Trust because someone trusted me enough to allow me into the partnership.  Especially when it wasn't my idea, it isn't my "baby."  Because he trusts me enough to let me in, I need to be committed to the project and the partnership.  The gift I can provide is the knowledge for research and the desire to help and encourage the person and the project...  Wow! 

Sunday, December 19, 2010

19 Dec 2010

Today's runes were Jera, Ansuz, and Dagaz.

Jera addresses any activity that one is committed to.  It focuses on Harvest, the Fertile Season, and has a time frame associated with it of One Year.  The one year may not be a calendar measure; instead look at it as making a full circle or a full cycle.  I visited with my sister today about buying a house.  I am determined to meet my time requirements here and because I haven't decided if this is a place I wish to stay long term, I will not pursue a house to buy.  I am also preparing for company for Christmas; even though it is a season of rest and renewal through the "death" of things, it is a fertile season for another reason.  It is a time for family and friends to gather, visit, and enjoy each others' company because we have slowed sufficiently so we can take the time to do that.  It is a season of rejoicing.

 Ansuz deals with Guilt in the healing process.  In this case, guilt that I haven't planned my week out like I normally would by making a casserole for lunch and a pot of soup for dinner.  Instead, I took the day to recharge my batteries.  I took a "Me Weekend" and spent it relaxing instead of doing the normal things I do to get ready for the coming work week.  I am feeling slightly guilty about that as I am not as prepared for the Holidays as I should be.  Better a mess than a stressed out host, right?  In addition, it is a time to consider the need to reclaim our faith in ourselves and others.  I spoke with a dear friend today who is coming out of a messed up relationship.  She is receiving mixed signals from family, her self, and others.  Why is it so difficult to realize that it is okay to be by ourselves?  I suppose it is very difficult to shed the years of training and having the need for a partner to be ingrained into us.  We must remember, there are worse things than being single.  Oh ya, serial dating can be fun!  And you learn a lot about yourself in the process...

Dagaz recognizes the Purpose we have in our lives.  We fulfill this purpose with every step we take.  I read a blog today about not knowing the difference we make in the world and the lives of others.  Someone, somewhere, sees the saint in each of us.  Today, my purpose was to take care of me.  At least, that is what I think.  Gathering strength for the next challenge!  Having a vision of the purpose is vital.  Do you have a vision for your life?  Some of my self-talk today focused a bit on a vision of my future.  Only time will tell if that vision was accurate or not...When I have a vision, I am better able to meet obstacles head on and get past them on the way to meeting my goals and my vision.

Tonight's rune is Thurisa.  Thurisa is the Gateway, Thor, the Place of Non-action; Wisdom; and Compromise.  As I approach the Gateway, I need to recognize there is work for me to do inside and outside of myself.  To obtain my vision, I need to build trust in myself and provide a reason for the people involved in my vision to trust me as well.  Need to trust that the path I/we are on is the right one to lead me/us to that goal.  If it isn't a shared goal, I have tasks to do to form it into a shared vision.  Before I step through that Gateway, I need to let go of the past before I can step through.  Wisdom is found in the ability to recognize the things I stumbled over, the successes, and learn from both before I step through that Gateway.  Wisdom is always a gift, it teaches sorrow, stagnation, and happiness.  It is up to us to learn from life to gain Wisdom.  Unlike common sense and book smarts; Wisdom is earned.  Through wisdom gained from past experiences, we learn about Compromise.  It is the way we interact with our environment and the people around us.  For example, I may have to give a little in the morning by waiting to start my commute.  This is a compromise, I honor my safety above getting to work at the normal time.  Or the weather may be compromising to me by making the roads nice and clear in a nod to my desire to get a full day's work in...  So the weather won't actively compromise with me; however, I may bow to it in an effort to save my own skin!  Compromise does not always mean a win-lose or a win-win.  It may be something entirely different......

18 Dec 2010

Weekends are a change in my routine.  I may not leave the house, so the runes are often a reflection of thoughts of the day, or are very subtle guides for thoughts and actions. 

This morning, I drew Ehwaz reversed, Laguz, and Sowelu.

Ehwaz is the rune of movement, of the horse.  It is all about movement, whether it helps or blocks progress.  Today, I spent time menu planning for next week when I have family coming in for Christmas.  We have a rocky relationship, always have.  Some days, I think it would be great if my family took the step beyond being family and becoming friends.  Alas, I don't see that happening.  So, movements that block.  I am wondering what to do to entertain them in this town.  There are some things to do, but it isn't like a major metropolitan area with shopping, museums, etc.  So, I am going to buy a puzzle!  As far as menu planning, they are not as forgiving as cooking for friends and the like.  They know my skills, they have been a fixture for a long time; and with that comes judging: "Do we NEED that?"  Will I be able to stand up to the criticism?  My inner critic has nothing on my mom.  So, today, I dealt with that.  Sorta...

Laguz is humor in the healing runes.  I watched some BBC, so I must have had humor in my day, right?  Where I should have focused my need for humor was laughing off the trauma that I am anticipating next week.  Shoulda said to myself that all that stuff isn't my problem, it is hers!  and to some extent, his!  Something to think about and aim for.  No need to work myself up on something that hasn't even happened yet.  Of course, nicknames may be a way to cope with the stress, too...

On to the third, Sowelu, the rune of healing.  Ah, perhaps that is what I was supposed to work on last night: healing my dread of the coming week!  Kinda late in the day to realize that; however that doesn't stop me from starting the healing process...  Recognizing the stress and then taking steps to forgive the cause, the actions, the catalyst, those are all things I need to do to regain a sense of balance and peace with family.

Tonight's selection is Algiz: protection, the elk, sedges or rushes; boundaries; and mutual trust.  I am reminded not to collapse myself into my emotions and to take correct action as that is my protection.  Boundaries serve to protect by keeping open space around me.  However, building mutual trust is something that will allow someone(s) the ability to come in close, to safely walk past the horns and to walk through the noisy grasses knowing he/she/they will be welcomed...  All are important things to consider and excellent protections to develop. 

Friday, December 17, 2010

17 Dec 2010

This morning, I drew Gebo, Raido, and Othila.

Before I go into today's happenings and things, it is important to know that even though some runes may appear several days in a row, they are there for a reason...  Perhaps I was supposed to learn something different in association with rune or need to re-enforce something...

Gebo is the rune of Gifts and Partnership.  The book's interpretation reminds me of one of my favorite ways to describe a relationship: it is made of three lives; his, hers, and theirs together.  So far, my day hasn't been impacted by my romantic relationship.  Instead, this rune dealt with my relationship with my co-workers.  I stood in for the person who works the front office.  Which means that I had to do some sales and ask whatever questions came my way.  Normally, this would not be a big deal, except I have been here for just over 2 months and I know very little about things around the area.  I am happy to say that I did not lie to any customers...  My boss and I also dealt with my performance standards for the year.  I have a feeling this will be an interesting experience as compared to my last job.  I actually wrote these for this year!  Which means I need to meet them!  Shouldn't be a problem...  Another aspect of Gebo is the ability to let go and live in the moment, which leads into Raido...

Raido signifies the need to Surrender to a greater Power.  Let go of the need to control a situation; moving through fears with the higher Power; and willing to will Thy will.  I am making small steps (I think they are small steps) towards living life in the moment instead of worrying about things I have no control of and may very likely change by the time things are said and done.  Today, this was marked by manning the front office and driving home in the dark in a snow storm (because I had to work later than I normally do).  Not worrying about getting home in normal time, which I think I could have done that if I had been driving in the daylight, just focusing on keeping my car in the lane it was supposed to be and not in the ditch!  I am learning to have patience for the folks coming from the West that don't know how to drive in winter conditions... 

Othila addresses home and family.  I came home to a box from an online store filled with gifts for my family, friends, and the meeting basket at work.  I bought these shirts for the boys and they look like they will be a hoot!  My sister may not be impressed with me, though...  Hehehe.  As for the meeting basket, I have heard of people taking a basket of goodies to meetings for folks to play with; sorta like a stress relief ball.  I used to have hypercolor silly putty that I would take to meetings and play with.  Worked pretty well.  So, tonight's addition are two cans of putty (different type than silly putty even though one is hyper-color and the other is a gorgeous metallic midnight blue!) and bucky balls.  LOVE the bucky balls.  Can't wait to buy more!  I am enjoying my new home and my new co-workers.  Being happy is the first step to having a good home/family life.

Berkana reversed is tonight's selection.  Berkana represents Growth, Rebirth, and the Birch Tree; Prayer; and Right Action.  Remember, reversed runes apply for the first interpretation, only.  Reversed Berkana indicates that something, either events or character aspects, interfere with growth of new life.  Diligence is the best course of action, examining actions/in-actions as they apply to life.  Am I being selfish?  Slowly and gently attack the problem; this may mean I have to continue to build trust even though I thought the foundation was pretty strong...  Part of attacking the problem involves asking for help from a higher Power through Prayer.  Pray for healing; for peace; for whatever we need help with.  Prayer may show what the Right Action is.  The best way to practice Right Action is to do the right thing even when no one is watching.  I will to will Thy will may be an appropriate statement.  Needing to know what the right action is, I asked the runes and drew Sowelu, the rune of healing in the relationship interpretations.  The phrase that hit the ahh, hah, button is "you can heal emotional wounds of the past from where you find yourself in the present."  My current emotional wounds are, for the most part, self-inflicted.  How can I inflict emotional wounds on myself?  The internal critic is the culprit.  I can make progress towards healing those wounds by addressing the critic and taking the air outa her sails.  A daunting task for the night...

Thursday, December 16, 2010

16 Dec 2010

This morning's draw was Sowelu, Raido, and Laguz.

Sowelu represents Wholeness, Life Force, and The Sun's Energy. Wholeness that nature requires, it indicates the path one must follow to self-realization.  Express yourself creatively.  Perhaps a retreat is called for, to gain strength, gain balance.  Allow the Gayatri lead the way.

Raido, in the healing runes, represents Surrender.  We recognize a force greater than ourselves, a Power that heals.  Release the need to control the current situation.  I will to will Thy will.

Laguz represents Change in a relationship. It supports adapting to change and transition.  I recently changed my job.  Is this what I am to adapt to?  If so, I think I am doing pretty good.  Nothing stays the same, all is changing, but even in the change, things may seem the same...  Perhaps I am asked to focus on the current status of things and not mourn the things that I may not have.  What is mine will come to me. 

For the most part, aspects of today did not reflect any of the messages of these runes.  Sowelu indicates that what I am striving to be, I already am.  I need to develop it more, need to "regenerate down to the cellular level."  In order to do this, one needs to Surrender to the Change occurring in my life.  What change is that?  I have no idea.  However, the signs are there.  I recognize the signs but as of yet, do not know what they represent...

Today seems to be a good day to "let go into the stillness of not knowing."

I am asked to work on Flow, Water, That which Conducts; Humor; and Change through Laguz, for tomorrow.  Unseen powers are nourishing my life and connecting me to something.  I am advised to experience life without having to evaluate or understand.  Through Humor, this can be done.  Take time to see the humor, enjoy the humor of the situation, and laugh.  It helps restore the balance of life.  Humor allows a person to accept change.  We may not look upon change with humor as it is new and scary.  Look upon the ebb and flow of life with Humor and recognize we constantly change.

Wednesday, December 15, 2010

15 Dec 2010

This morning's runes were Teiwaz reversed, Eihwaz, and Jera.

Teiwaz represented the Warrior and was named after Tiw, the Sky God.  I am cautioned to look at my motives and consider how they impact my actions.  For example, choosing to leave an hour later for work due to weather turned out to be a good idea.

Eihwaz, in the healing runes, addresses Denial in ones life.  Admitting ones short-comings or showing compassion for others is the hallmark of this rune.  Today was spent being patient with the computer and showing understanding when something went wrong at someone's home. 

Jera is the rune of time and, in this case, Perseverance.  Making a concerted effort to get to work even though the roads weren't the greatest.  An extra 30 minutes on the road wasn't that bad!  And retreating from the world after work is a step in renewal.  Besides, how much does one want to be out in the pogonip anyway?

Othila is tonight's rune.  Separation, retreat, inheritance.  Shedding of outmoded skins.  Perhaps I need to cultivate a more positive outlook for a relationship or two?  In the healing set, it addresses Grief.  With the holidays fast approaching, am I missing having the whole family here or something else?  Is it was was said? left unsaid? Or wishing for the removal of pain and restoration of peace?  Othila also represents Home and Family.  Am I supposed to address the feelings associated with my family and conflict with them?  Create a new holiday tradition while they are here?  I have been thinking about Christmas Eve traditions and looking for one to take on.  Perhaps, I will just make my own.

Tuesday, December 14, 2010

14 Dec 2010

This morning's draw was Wunjo reversed, Perth, and Othila.

Wunjo is the rune of Joy, of Light.  When it is reversed, it indicates things are slow coming into their own.  A crisis may be at hand.  Everything is a test and, in times of crisis, it is useful meditation.  Today, I experienced a crisis, of sorts.  My boss passed an managerial assignment on to me.  One that I inherited, that was sorely in need of fixing.  New to the biz, I had no idea what the process was to address the problem.  Information gathering, searching databases, making phone calls (of course, it had to happen when EVERYONE was gone for the holidays), and, then, making a decision on how to proceed.  A long story short, my staff and I were able to address the situation and give my boss the information he needed.  Not solved, but, that can wait for another day!

Perth, in the healing runes, symbolizes Love.  The passage that reflects today the most was as follows: "is a simple reminder to listen-to your heart, to those you love and to the still small voice that always speaks with Love."  Last night I had a social gathering at my house for the folks I work with.  I am happy to admit that the turn-out was above and beyond the turn-out of my first work gathering 9 years ago!  Every time I talk to someone from home or do something like the gathering last night, I am reminded that this move was a good one.  One of my co-workers extended her gratitude for the event last night again, this morning.  I don't think I could have chosen a better place to land for this step in career.  The scenery is great, but, all the beautiful mountains, plains, breaks, etc. in the world isn't as beautiful as the scenery when you are welcomed into the community!

What better to follow Love, then Othila, the rune of Home and Family.  The place and people where we feel comfortable.  Knowing that I didn't have any engagements for the night and that I could spend it relaxing was an excellent thought for the day.  A dear friend called, too.  Even though I didn't get to talk to her, I still got to hear her voice on the "machine" and it was great to know that she was wondering how life was going.  Three phone calls from my support group in one week, that doesn't happen very often.  I must be doing something right for those events to line up like that!  The only thing I have changed, is this blog...  A new life indeed!

The last rune of the day is Isa.  Isa is one of the nine (counting Odin) runes that does not have a reversed position.  It is also one of thirteen that address the circle of life: gestation, birth, life, death...  Isa, itself, represents Standstill, Withdrawal, or Ice.  Basically, I am advised to let go of the old and wait for the new.  It is coming.  Any time you are asked to give up the old, the known, Fear enters into your life.  Should you let go of the known?  What if the unknown is worse than the known?  Acknowledge the power of change, this healing rune advises.  Reflect on life as it was and as it is.  Now is the time to choose stillness over action.  The only person you can change is yourself.  What habits do I have now that aren't helpful or healthy to any of my relationships?  Withdrawing?  Not sharing my emotions?  Everything has an ebb and a flow, during the ebbs, it is timely to look within and clean out the old ways to make room for the new.

Monday, December 13, 2010

13 Dec 2010

This morning I drew the following runes: Uruz reversed, Nauthiz, and Inguz.

Uruz is the rune of strength, man/womanhood, and the ox.  Reversed, it cautions going about oblivious to life.  It also counsels thinking about your relationship with your Self.  Self, you ask?  Yes, Self.  Self is the higher being of your self.  It is that part of you that is within which observes life and causes you to have those "ah-ya" moments.  It is your gut reaction.  It is recognizing that, yes, you can do the new job you signed on for even though it involves dealing with the big-bad arch nemesis of your chosen profession.  And it involves managing people.  So what is it came before you were ready?  You wanted a challenge, right?  THAT is why Princesses wear hiking boots!

Nauthiz makes another appearance today.  Have you dealt with your shame today?  Mine would be saving things for the last minute...again.  It seems I am always waiting until right before a social gathering at my house to do some prep work that could have been done last night.  Uffdah!  I need to accept this trait in me and either live with it or change it.  Not quite what the interpretation indicates, but, not every day can we look at some deep dark secret of our past, embrace it, and move on.  However, the dreaded ex did come up in conversation tonight.  I am happy to admit that I am handling that much better these days.  A good bunch of friends and a good man can help with that, although, you really must do it yourself!  Oh yes, when the pie doesn't turn out, it isn't so bad, it can go back into the oven for another go...

Inguz marks a time of renewal.  Renewal in realizing that you have made friends here and are a welcomed addition to your work environment.  Renewal in feeling wanted and welcome.  Renewal, knowing that pies are forgiving and you can cook them again...  Renewal in faith in yourself.  If you don't have faith in your own abilities, how can you have faith in someone else enough to provide the emotional/spiritual/physical/verbal support they need?

Tonight's rune is Raido reversed.  It appeared yesterday, in the Health rune.  Tonight, as a reversed presence, I am warned to attend to personal relationships and I am in control of how I respond.  Perhaps it is time to trim the plant back so the roots can develop more?  Huh?  Perhaps I need to practice managing myself, especially my selfspeak.  Why the self instead of the Self?  The inner dialog from your inner critic NEVER comes from the Self.  It is always from the self as the self has not matured enough to go beyond the critic, selfish nag that doesn't want to see you succeed.  If I manage the inner critic, then the Self will flourish and I will be able see things in the world around me in a more positive light.  Which leads into the Surrender portion of tonight's message.  By managing the critic, I can surrender to a higher place through contact with the Divine.  I will to will Thy will.  Perhaps sharing my fears and worries with the Trouble Dolls will help.  They can work things out while I sleep and I won't have to worry about them...  Meeting the critic and asserting good statements after the critic has its say will make progress towards creating Harmony in my life and my relationships.  Conflict through a variety of forms is what makes relationships fall apart.  Even the relationship with yourself.  I shall Surrender my worries and troubles to someone else's hands tonight and wake to a stronger relationship with my Self and a greater sense of Harmony.

Sunday, December 12, 2010

12 Dec 2010 New Beginnings

This morning I drew the following runes: Ehwaz, Raido, and Odin. 

Ehwaz is the rune of movement.  In my case, there was a lot of movement in my day.  I did a lot of baking for a party that I am hosting tomorrow night, I visited with two friends whom I haven't visited with in a while, and I caught up with my boyfriend.  One of the conversations I had involved this blog.  I have encouraged this friend to explore runes, tarot cards, and other oracles to help her deal with some rough patches in her life.  My experiences with the runes has helped me with trying times.  She encouraged me to write so she can gain familiarity with the runes.  The other phone call involved catching up with a very close friend.  We commented about the strangeness of me not being at home and how this time of year is just plain weird in that respect.  Typically, we bake pies together and host a Christmas party together.  Not this year.  As you can see, there was lots of movement in my day!

The second rune, dealing with my health, was Raido.  Raido traditionally dealt with journey, communication, reunion/union.  In the Healing Runes, it also addresses surrender.  I haven't talked to my boyfriend in almost a week.  This may seem strange to you, however, it is normal (when things are going well) for our relationship.  We have always communicated well with each other.  Today's conversation addressed some shared interests and I gained understanding about some happenings in the last 5 months.  As a result, I was able to voice my frustration and hopefully surrender that past experience.  I understand why it happened and recognize that it may happen again.  He's aware of my reaction to the event and hopefully will keep that in mind.  Things are right in the world again.

The third rune, addressing my relationship with myself, was Odin.  Odin is the rune of mystery, "blank is the beginning; blank is the end."  Deciding to write this blog and explore the questions I have about the runes combining to be a three or a four-rune spread is definitely a beginning and an end.  The beginning in that I have never written about my experiences privately, let alone publicly.  And the end of the old.....

Tonight's final rune is Nauthiz reversed.  Nauthiz represents pain, constraint, and necessity.  I am reminded that in its original sense it meant to udergo something.  I am also reminded to practice restraint and to not take this world personally.  As a healing rune, Nauthiz addresses shame.  Perhaps I am at a place where I can heal my feelings.  Which may be the case, remember I voiced my frustrations?  You have to recognize what is wrong before you can right the wrong.  In light of my relationship with myself, Nauthiz reminds me to acknowledge my limitations and those of others.  These are not set in stone, we can learn from them and turn them into strengths.  Of course, new limitations will follow behind the old.  That is okay.  We have to have limitations to keep us in check.  And, sometimes, the things we see as strengths are our limitations.

Perhaps the take home message for me today is that I don't live in a vacuum and every person I come into contact with will present limitations that I can choose to accept or ignore.  I should not take every little thing personally, especially when it hurts but was not intended to hurt.  Pretty big message...........

The Process

Each morning, I sit on my bed with my bag of runes.  I am using the set of 25 that are referenced in the books written by Ralph Blum.  They include the 24 runes of the elder and younger Futharks and Odin, the mystery rune.  I ask a question, in this case, "What do I need to know to live life today?" and draw which ever rune that "sticks" to my hand.  I am very careful about looking at the rune so I don't alter its presentation; either upright or reverse.  I write it down in my calendar and place it back in the bag.

I repeat the process with two other questions:
"What do I need to know about my health for today?"
"What do I need to do for my relationship with myself?"

After writing the runes down, I consult Mr. Blum's books.  The Book of Runes for the first question, The Healing Runes for the second, and the Relationship Runes for the third.  Presentation is not important for the Healing and Relationship runes as they have no reversed form.

I read each entry before continuing on in my preparations for the day.  I have not noticed any difference in drawing runes based upon having a shower or not.  I have not done any meditations in the morning in quite a while, so this could change.  The journaling process is outlined in The Artist's Way by Julia Cameron.

The last rune is drawn right before going to bed.  I ask "What do I need to work on for tomorrow?" and draw a rune.  This rune is written down, maintaining its presentation, and I consult all three references.

Purpose

I have been studying runes for 10 years, or so.  I have kept a rune journal, drawing one in the morning and one at night.  Recently, I have been drawing more in the morning, asking questions in more specific areas.  The purpose of this journal will be to see if what I suspect is true: that the runes I draw in the morning not only answer the three questions I ask of them ( what I need to know to live life today; what do I need to know for my health today; and what do I need to work on for my relationship with myself) but is also a three rune spread which is the Overview, Challenge, and Action.  Of course, asking the fourth question, at night, what do I need to work on for tomorrow, may also be the Summary rune of a four-rune spread. 

There are other spreads I have worked on, as well.  Those spreads may appear here as well.

Names will be changed, of course.   I am curious to read the thoughts of others, feel free to comment.  If you think you "know" who I refer to, please have the courtesy to maintain the changed name.