Warren Jeffs Gravely Ill

Crossposted from Reflections Journal.

The punchline on Warren Jeffs's life sentence is that his life may be cut short by illness. Word broke yesterday that he was in a coma. It was a medically induced coma so that they could force nutrition to the "fasting" Jeffs. He has since regained consciousness but is still listed as critical. His fast or hunger strike (???) had only been going on for three days but that was enough to imperil the life of a man who is suffering from unnamed medical issues. According to officials, even without the fast, he is sick enough to require hospitalization.

I didn't think he looked well during the trial but he's always had a kind of gaunt, ill-formed, almost larval look about him, so who could say?

This is also not the first time he has starved himself in prison, having done so in both Arizona and Utah prisons. He is given to expressions of asceticism, having previously been treated for ulcerated knees from his hours of prayer.

The larger concern is that these demonstrations of piety will be read as martyrdom by followers.

"I think that's what he's trying to do, is become a martyr in their eyes and further exalt himself as far as they're concerned. Not necessarily with a bang, but this is precisely what he wants and this is how he wants it to end," said Sherie Jeffs, who is Jeffs' sister-in-law.

Two of Jeffs' children testified against their uncle in Texas that they had been sexually abused as children by the FLDS leader. She said Texas officials should force feed Warren Jeffs, if necessary, to keep him alive.

"I think he needs to stay alive and be able to ponder in that cell for many many years what he's done to people's lives, and children's lives, how many families he's destroyed," she told Fox 13.

Amen to that.

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"Why Shamanism Now?" with Christina Pratt

Soul Integration and Shamanic Healing

What do you do after a shamanic healing experience? In past times people lived in a way that they saw soul loss in each other when it happened. They noticed the dampening of spirit, the loss of energy, and the absence within the person that they love. They noticed the presence of the dead and other intruding spirits. They knew what to notice and got the healing that they needed. "Traditional people didn't integrate their shamanic healings," explains host and shaman, Christina Pratt, "because they didn't need to. The healing came before they had time to adjust to the damage. Today we adjust to the damage and carry on, often taking 10 to 20 years before we find the shamanic healing that we need. Integration after shamanic healing is needed today because we need to un-adjust in all the ways we adjusted." Soul loss has become the story we tell about how we "have never been the same since..." Energies intrude into our lives throughout the day, feeding our growing anxiety, depression, and compensation through addiction. And we struggle with isolation and loneliness, blind to the help all around us and telling our children to stop talking to their imaginary friends. Join us this week as we explore what is actually happening in a shamanic healing and-even more importantly-what you do need to do to integrate these experiences and gain the most depth and breadth from your transformation.

Tuesday, August 30, 2011 at 11:00 AM Pacific

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Just Energy Radio

NASA's Dark Missions & Subtle Energy: The Scientific Evidenc

Mike Bara
NASA's Dark Missions
Mike Bara is a New York Times Bestselling author, screenwriter and lecturer. A self-described “Born Again conspiracy theorist,” Mike's first book Dark Mission-The Secret History of NASA (co-authored with the venerable Richard C. Hoagland) was a New York Times bestseller in 2007 for Feral House books. Mike has made numerous public appearances lecturing on the subjects of space science, NASA, physics and the link between science and spirit.

Dr. Claude Swanson
Subtle Energy: The Scientific Evidence
For the last twenty years, interspersed with his conventional professional career in applied physics, Dr. Swanson has pursued investigations into "unconventional physics." His principal interest has been unified field theory, the so-called "Theory of Everything" which could explain the universe at the deepest possible level. This has led him to investigate many aspects of the paranormal, which appear to be completely real phenomena which violate our present science.

Fri, Sep 2, 2011 3:00PM ET/2:00PM CT

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/just-energy-radio

Awake: Now What?

Meet Angelica Rose, Teacher, Coach for Higher Conscious Livi

Angelica Rose, a national gifted essence training specialist since 1991 specializes in relaxation, heart centered communication and listening skills, relationship selling and creative marketing with highly creative, spiritually gifted and talented positive heart centered people. She offers private individual sessions and group customized classes at your home, work, and at a variety of locations.

Angelica's style of teaching is self-directed and positive style teaching which encompasses experiential learning for self-development and how to steps for self-improvement. Angelica provides tools to expand on one's creativity spiritual expansiveness and heart-centered playful living.

Angelica's Unique Buying Advantage is the balance she has with her expertise in the business world coupled with her education and experience in human relations. Her experience includes being a former trainer and consultant since 1984 and Dale Carnegie Consultant in 1997. Her media expertise in a variety of areas such as, broadcasting an educational radio show, producing, 'The Entrepreneurial Television Show,' publishing educational articles in a variety of national publications, being a guest on KIRO Television, 'Merissa at 9,' and numerous national radio shows and being interviewed on a variety of national magazines.

For more information go to www.angelicarose.webs.com, www.heartofmotivation.webs.com, and www.angelica-child.webs.com

Sun, Sep 4, 2011 6:00PM ET

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/awake

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Horoscope for August 29 - September 4

Cross-posted from Aloha Astro

Aries (March 21st - April 20th)
For some time now, Aries, the planet Uranus has been mixing some electrical energy into your fire, making you an unpredictable live wire. This has enabled you to become a quick change artist and an innovative risk-taker, but it may have caused friction with your partner or coworkers. Maybe you've been more than they can handle lately or you've been too busy rushing around to notice them. The new moon energy this week in the earth sign of Virgo helps you to develop plans and systems, find a practical and productive pace, and be aware of the needs of other people. The new moon in your 6th house of work, service, health, and habits can also make you see the benefits of a regular rest, diet, and exercise regimen. A little humility, modesty, and temperance goes a long way to improving all your relationships, including the one you have with yourself.

Taurus (April 21st - May 20th)
The Virgo new moon influencing your week is perfectly in harmony with your own element, Taurus. To top things off, it occurs in your 5th house of creativity, romance, and fun. But wait - there's more! Aspects between the other transiting planets give you the power of mind over matter mixed with an optimism that makes you a mighty manifester now. There has been a long transit making you fearful because of the instability you feel in the world at large. Yes, there are crazy things going on. Do what you can about things that worry you, but if there is nothing you can do, forget about it and go play. The most practical and productive thing you can do is to spend your time now doing what makes you happy. This world is a playground and grownup life is still a "let's pretend" game. Pre-tend happy relationships, fun activities, and profitable business now.

Gemini (May 21st - June 21st)
Home and psychological foundations are highlighted by the new moon in Virgo in your 4th house of home, Gemini. This can be an especially happy and productive week for you because the current planetary transits and aspects are tethering you to ground where you can make some serious advances in following practical business advice or working on your own inner programming. If you have been wanting to be a more effective person who has better relationships, a more service-oriented purpose, or just a cleaner desk and closets, you will come as close to perfect as you can get without irritating others this week. Just don't try to be too perfect or go too Pollyanna on people. Make it look like you are still striving, but leave a few imperfections so others feel comfortable around you. If home improvements are being planned or a new home is sought, include the whole family and listen to their ideas.



Cancer (June 22nd - July 22nd)
Communication, the sharing of creative ideas, and short trips and visits with family and friends keep you busy all week, Cancer. The new moon in Virgo falls in your 3rd house of communication, local travel, imagination, formative ideas, siblings, and neighbors. The transiting planets are also activating relationships with friends and your partner in pleasurable and productive ways. If you are a single Cancer looking to meet a partner now or just a sensitive Crab who wants more friends for positive support or increased business opportunities, now is the time to smile at people, strike up conversations, and hand out business cards or invitations. If your work is affected by the holiday shopping season, now is the time to amp up your advertising or production so you make the most of the season to come.

Leo (July 23rd - August 22nd)
You are stepping into a power time for money, income, and business productivity this week, Leo. Now that Mercury retrograde is no longer creating delays and the planets are putting you in harmony with the material world, put your plans into action and reap the harvest. You want your "den" ready for the winter ahead, so some of your work may be directed toward practical home improvement projects, purchasing things needed for the home or family, or simply accumulating as much money as you can and stocking up on basic material needs in bulk to reap the savings. If you have a partner, they are in harmony with the current family plans, but if you are single, you may be too work-focused now to do more than a bit of window shopping or light flirting.

Virgo (August 23rd - September 22nd)
Lucky you, Virgo! The new moon in your sign comes with a side-dish of Venus charm and delight, served up in your 1st house of self. As your birthday season begins, what present would you most like to receive? Keep it in mind, but be open to the possibility that whatever you really want, you may have to find or get on your own. Other people are more attracted to you now and want to give you attention, gifts, or just be with you. You have to get clear and precise on what you want so the Universe, your friends, or your partner can gift-wrap it for you. Making travel plans or exploring a new area with the idea to relocate is possible near the end of the week. On the mundane level, a total makeover of your beauty, wardrobe, budget, maybe a new telephone or computer, and your home is possible.

Libra (September 23rd - October 23rd)
The new moon in Virgo in your 12th house of the subconscious, the collective of society, and altered states of consciousness hints at the formation of plans you are keeping secret for now, or spiritual or metaphysical principles you may be applying in a systematic way in your life. Other planetary transits indicate you may be wanting to strengthen your manifesting abilities or feel more confident and secure in who you are and how you consciously create your reality. You may desire to feel more grounded in a home or in financial investments. Your busy 12th house may hold dreams and plans that require some research or practical testing. Find a pile of catalogs and magazines to help you create a vision board or treasure map. Keep your manifesting work private because it is all too young and uncertain now - all it would take is one negative comment at a vulnerable moment for you to tear things down and have to start again.

Scorpio (October 24th - November 21st)
Love, money, and friendship are all on the upswing, Scorpio. The new moon in Virgo occurs in your 11th house of friends, groups, organizations, and wish fulfillment. There are other planets currently favoring your financial flow and your intimate relationships. Some Scorpios may be making serious plans to marry and begin a family under the current trends. The biggest barrier to success in any area of life now is fear about the future or trust issues. Sometimes you have to go out on a limb to pick the juicy fruit. Don't look down now - or back to the past. When you decide that you want to do something or be with someone, the practical pieces of making it happen seem to fall into place easily, almost as if the Universe was waiting on you this time.

Sagittarius (November 22nd - December 21st)
Career advancement is the theme for you this week, Sagittarius. The Virgo new moon falls in your 10th house of career, reputation, and place in the outer world. Attention to methods, details, improving service to others, and making social contacts can help you improve your existing business or increase your current income. Some Sagittarians who are job hunting may find that perks such as health insurance or tuition assistance may be a deciding factor in which job they choose. Doing things the right way is a theme for you now. Every task seems to be an opportunity to exhibit perfection, quality, and integrity. Your reputation and income can only grow as a result.

Capricorn (December 22nd - January 19th)
An opportunity for personal empowerment or expansion comes this week, Capricorn. The Virgo new moon in your 9th house of higher education, foreign travel, philosophy, and communication offers various possibilities depending on where you are in your life right now. Some of you may decide to teach about a passion or hobby, some may return to school to master something they've always had an interest in, some may publish a book or accept a traveling job that brings them to new places. Whatever the expansion is, it seems to be a stepping stone to career advancement or greater income, but it may require more time away from home or family in the next few weeks. A partner is understanding and supportive of your plans.

Aquarius (January 20th - February 18th)
You are a practical metaphysician this week, Aquarius. All the psychic houses in your chart are active now, especially your 8th house, where the Virgo new moon took place. The 8th house rules serious issues in life that revolve around shared energy or assets and merged boundaries. Sex, death, taxes, metaphysics, insurance, investments, inheritance, business partnerships, and divorce are all 8th house interests. Use the discernment and practicality of the Virgo moon to get your business or insurance paperwork and plans in order. Is everything up-to-date and organized? Some Aquarians may gain through property, inheritance, or investments now or find themselves having to handle arranging care for elderly parents. The planet Pluto in your 12th house gives you an extra reserve of power and determination to get what you put your mind on now. Think practically and constructively. Know you deserve it and you will get it.

Pisces (February 19th - March 20th)
A simple formula for success in all areas of your life now, Pisces, is to give people what they want. Currently, you are a bit unsure of who you are exactly, but you have no trouble doing things when you know what to do! Just ask your mate, family, friends, or customers what makes them happy or what they need most now, and think about how you can make it happen for them. Business looks rock solid for you now and a romantic relationship may advance to a new level of commitment. A great deal of your pleasure and support comes from sharing ideas and plans with friends, but there is a risk of losing money if you back anyone else's projects now. Any opportunity that sounds too good to be true or causes a friend to pressure you into joining them should be avoided. Your own talent or business is enough.

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Astrological Trends for August 29 - September 4

Cross-posted from Aloha Astro

On Monday, August 29th, the new moon in the mutable earth sign of practical and purposeful Virgo joins the sun and Venus, the planet of affection and pleasure, also in Virgo. Together, this harmonious trio forms a productive trine to powerful Pluto in success-oriented Capricorn and a blessed trine to Jupiter, the planet of growth and abundance, in the material-minded fixed earth sign of Taurus. This morning, the Virgo trio also forms a quincunx to Uranus in Aries. Mercury, planet of thought and communication, in the fixed and creative fire sign of Leo is now direct, and is supported by a sextile to Mars in the sensitive and nurturing cardinal water sign of Cancer. After the past few weeks of delay energy a Mercury retrograde period may have delivered to you, today's new moon energy fully supports you in creating new plans and implementing them. A challenging square aspect between restrictive, serious Saturn in the cardinal air sign of relationship-minded Libra and Mars, the planet of action, in the cardinal water sign of emotional Cancer indicates that you may have to handle people with kid gloves or be mindful of your own emotional reactions to the comments or actions of other people. The square between Pluto in Capricorn and Uranus in Aries, which you have been dealing with for weeks now, continues to produce friction and possible breaking energy between new and old. As the moon progresses further this afternoon and leaves the sun and Venus behind, it forms a supportive sextile to Mars in Cancer, which encourages acting upon your gut instincts. If you have to make a decision, do what feels right to you. The practical Virgo moon is also semi-sextile to discerning Saturn in Libra, which can help you make the right choice. Later this evening, Mercury in Leo forms a semi-sextile to Mars in Cancer and a semi-sextile to the moon in Virgo, indicating your decisions, plans, thoughts, or speech are in harmony with your feelings and your actions.



Purposeful compassion or practical ingenuity that benefits others is possible the morning of Tuesday, August 30th, when the moon in the late degrees of the mutable earth sign of Virgo forms a quincunx to Neptune, the planet of spiritual inspiration, in the future-minded fixed air sign of Aquarius. Virgo is an earth sign, but its traditional planetary ruler is Mercury, the planet of thought. Aquarius is a cerebral, intellectual, inventive air sign. Virgo places service above all things and Neptune is a planet of sacrifice, grace, and Divine beauty. This quincunx can be quite powerful if it is applied to healing work or finding a solution to a problem that affects other people or society as a whole. The quincunx between the moon and Neptune remains in place this afternoon, but the moon moves into the cardinal air sign of relationship-minded, diplomatic Libra, where it now challenges Uranus in the pioneering cardinal fire sign of Aries. There may be some ruffled feathers you need to smooth or red tape you must unravel in order to put your plan into action. Ah, bureaucracy! Keep your patience now and remain polite in order to get what you want. The sun and Venus in Virgo trine Jupiter in Taurus and also trine Pluto in Capricorn go a long way toward ensuring you get what you want if you keep your attention on it and work at it - persistence pays off. Early this evening, the Libra moon squares controlling Pluto in Capricorn at the same time it opposes upstart Uranus in Aries, completing a cardinal T-square. By now, if you have been following the trends for a while, you may know how a cardinal T-square affects you personally based on past experience or looking to see where you have Libra, Aries, and Capricorn in your own natal chart. The issue here is individual will, desire to control, and the resistance to cooperation, so you may want to mind your own business this evening and let others mind theirs. If something absolutely must be discussed or decided, passing a Native American talking stick might be a good idea!

An aspect pattern that supports beauty and design on a material level gets Wednesday, August 31st, off to a happy start. If you are in a profession where the right sound, look, word, or image is important, the early part of the day puts you in flow with the Venus-ruled Libra moon conjunct precise Saturn in Libra. Together, the moon and Saturn in Libra form a quincunx to expansive Jupiter in material-minded, Venus-ruled Taurus, and also a semi-sextile to Venus and the sun in practical Virgo. The sun and Virgo also aspect Jupiter in Taurus with a trine. This is a perfect time for form following function under the influence of balance, proportion, harmony, and beauty. If you are not an artist or designer of any kind, you can still maximize this aspect by shopping for things that are both functional and beautiful. Get your shopping done by the middle of the afternoon, however, before the moon and Saturn in Libra form a challenging square to Mars in Cancer, which may cause emotional and intellectual incompatibility or conflict in all interactions between people. The semi-sextile between Venus/sun in Virgo and moon/Saturn in Libra will help people mind their manners, but they may try to kill each other with politeness! When the moon and Saturn in Libra activate Mercury in dramatic Leo through a sextile later this afternoon, the winner of any debate or competition is the one with the most cheek or chutzpah. Engaging in competitive sports or games tonight may be a good way for you to work off any accumulated stress from the day. The mind is stimulated tonight, which can make sleep difficult. Use the extra mental creativity to brainstorm or enjoy a hobby.

Does everything in life seem perfect this morning? A wonderful trine between the moon in the cardinal air sign of Libra and Neptune in the fixed air sign of Aquarius on the morning of Thursday, September 1st, can create emotional and mental harmony that is as close to perfect as you can get. Just the fact that you can turn the calendar page over today and anticipate the change of seasons may make you smile as you plan ahead for possible adventures this month. The day may become intriguing in the early afternoon when the moon leaves Libra and enters the fixed water sign of secretive Scorpio. The Scorpio moon is very active, with a quincunx to Uranus in the cardinal fire sign of Aries and a favorable trine from the moon to Neptune in Aquarius conjunct nearby Chiron in Pisces. Metaphysical investigation or exploring unusual ideas is possible under this influence. You may be willing to try something offbeat or alternative to bring about a personal change or healing. Some concrete proof of your unusual methods may be visible as early as this evening, when the Scorpio moon also forms a sextile to transformative Pluto in Capricorn. Emotion release or personal transformation can have a direct effect on your body or material manifestations. With Venus and the sun in Virgo still trine to Jupiter in Taurus, practical and grounded relationships are highlighted. Today's Scorpio moon being stirred by Pluto and Uranus may prompt you to take a risk on committing to a relationship because you feel the passion now as much as you feel the logical rightness of things.

Passion listens to the voice of reason the morning of Friday, September 2nd, as the moon in the fixed water sign of sultry Scorpio forms a sextile to Venus and the sun in level-headed Virgo. The Scorpio moon also opposes Jupiter in Taurus. An opposition to Jupiter is never entirely negative because Jupiter is so benevolent. I see this aspect pattern as a chance to examine your feelings about a relationship closely before getting in too deep. If there are any issues around trust or control, they should be dealt with now. The opposition fades by lunchtime, and a semi-sextile between the moon and Saturn in Libra enhances the ability to think clearly about your feelings. Around dinnertime, the Scorpio moon forms a trine to Mars in Cancer, making tonight the perfect time to wine, dine, and romance a potential partner or your beloved. Make sure the lights are low and there are candles. Ladies, dress like a femme fatale with curves and softness. Men, dress and act like James Bond. The extra spice from a semi-sextile between Mars in Cancer and Mercury in Leo helps couples enjoy the atmosphere and role-playing.

On Saturday, September 3rd, the day may begin quietly as the moon in the fixed water sign of sensitive Scorpio forms no major aspects to another planet until midday. A Scorpio moon is an excellent time for introspection and listening to your intuition. Be quiet and observe now. At midday, a problematic square between the Scorpio moon and Neptune in Aquarius can make you sensitive to the vibrations and noise of other people and boundary issues could arise. This is an aspect of stubbornness and distortion, so retreat may be the best tactic when confronted by anyone who seems unstable or out-of-sorts. This evening, when the moon leaves Scorpio and enters the mutable fire sign of adventurous Sagittarius, it forms an exciting trine to Uranus in Aries, but also an awkward square to Neptune in Aquarius conjunct Chiron in Pisces. There is a real possibility that some of you may throw caution to the wind and take risks that can jeopardize your physical safety or the safety of others. Please do not drink and drive tonight and be a safe, defensive driver. A semi-sextile between the Sagittarius moon and Pluto in Capricorn means the police may be out looking to write speeding tickets and pull in DUIs. Stay home and satisfy this temporary planetary urge for adventure and derring-do by watching an action movie.

Overly optimistic or expensive plans may need revision the morning of Sunday, September 4th. The moon in the mutable fire sign of eager Sagittarius is greedy for more or better as it forms a trine to abundant Jupiter in the material earth sign of Taurus. But the Sagittarius moon is being reined-in by a square to the sun and Venus in Virgo. You can't ignore practicality now. Maybe you have to stick to a budget or consider the needs of other people before spreeing or traveling. Early this afternoon, the Sagittarius moon forms a sextile to Saturn in the relationship-minded sign of Libra and Saturn forms a semi-sextile to the sun and Venus in Virgo. It does look like your plans must take into consideration the opinions or interests of your friends or family. Isn't that what relating is all about? A square between the moon in Sagittarius and the sun in Virgo may make you wish you could be a selfish child again, when your only concern was playtime and your own happiness. The sun/moon square is testing your emotional maturity and responsibility now and your ability to make nice with others. *sigh* This is the kind of aspect that makes you want to scribble mustaches on people's faces and poke fun at anything too proper or uptight. This puckish wickedness continues through the evening. Find something naughty to do or break a few minor rules, as long as they won't result in legal actions. Read a book or watch a movie with a vigilante hero or heroine. Come up with ideas that relax rules or make "have to" activities more fun.

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WM3 Panel Discussion in Little Rock

Crossposted from Reflections Journal.

A West Memphis Three panel discussion held at the Clinton School of Public Service in Little Rock Arkansas was filled to capacity with over 1,200 people. Both the panel and the audience seemed to be heavily tilted in the direction of WM3 supporters, but that's probably a reflection of public perception more generally. There are a lot more people who think the three are innocent than think they are guilty. Prosecutor Scott Ellington was the lone representative from the guilty camp, on a panel that was filled out by the three defense attorneys, Devil's Knot author Mara Leveritt, and Capi Peck of Arkansas Take Action.

The reflections of moderator Max Brantley can be found here. I watched the entire 1:42:02 program last night and I think it's well worth the time investment.

The take-away from the program is Scott Ellington's promise to test the DNA when the lab hired by the defense is done with it. He said they would run it through the data-base and cross-check it for contamination by police and lab techs. That could be important as DNA from three unidentified men has been detected.

"Once Bode labs gets their reports done, the state crime lab has agreed to run those through CODIS," Ellington said, referring to a database of known criminals as well as crime lab employees. "If there are any hits, then that evidence can be brought to the defense attorneys."

Ellington later told The Associated Press in an interview: "If the defendants have evidence they didn't commit the crime, let them prove it. That's why the crime lab is willing to test DNA results provided by the defense."

Prosecutors have contended that the absence of the three men's DNA at the crime scene does not prove their innocence, pointing out that jurors convicted the three on other evidence. Ellington said that although the DNA does not match the three men's, it may not be traceable to other suspects.

"The DNA they keep talking about has never been cross-checked with DNA from the law enforcement officers on the scene and has never been cross-checked with lab employees. ... We believe the right results are there, but we would be willing to run those and see if there are any matches," Ellington told reporters.

In other highlights, Mara Leveritt, who has a positively angelic voice and manner, fielded an audience question about the racial implications. Would there be so much interest in the West Memphis Three if they had been men of color? It's a good question and it's one I've pondered for years. Leveritt makes the point that the primary divide in this country is economic and with that and I heartily agree. It's not for nothing that advocacy for the poor of all races was Martin Luther King's primary focus shortly before he was assassinated. There is no question that if Damien Echols, Jason Baldwin, and Jessie Misskelley, had come from wealth and social stature, this case would never have gone to trial. And not just because of better legal representation. I still have to wonder, though, if this case would have gotten so much traction had they had been three black men.

I was very impressed by Jessie Misskelley's attorney Jeff Rosenzweig. I don't know what it is but for some reason, since their release, it's Jessie Misskelley who is tearing at my heartstrings. I looked at closeups of his face during their initial press conference and just burst into tears. He just seems so vulnerable. Rosenzweig spoke at length about his deficiencies, surmising that saying his IQ is 72 seems generous. He reads at third to fourth grade level and was most likely "socially" promoted through school until he dropped out after the ninth grade. And now that we know so much more about false confessions and their high correlation with low IQ it's incredibly clear how this happened.

Rozenzweig also had a lot to offer on the question of whether or not the West Memphis Three will be able to profit from writing or other art regarding their ordeal with the justice system. He questioned the Son of Sam law on First Amendment issues. More to the point, he said the law pertains to profiting from the crime not other observations about the overall experience of trial, incarceration, etc. They may be able to tell their stories about this Kafkaesque journey and earn income. I would hope so, considering that having lost out years of education and employment in prison, they can't even sue under their plea deal.

Also discussed was the disturbing issue of the blood evidence, um, misplaced (???) by the West Memphis PD immediately following the crime. That would be the blood recovered from the restroom of the Bojangles' [sic] near the crime scene left by a bloody, disheveled man. It sure would have been helpful to have that particular DNA?

Jason Baldwin's attorney Blake Hendrix had this to say:

To me the Bojangles' is a perfect exemplification in this case that this is one of those cases that it's a, an entire systemic failure. The system entirely failed. The system failed from the law enforcement ground up. The system failed in how the prosecution treated the case. The system failed in how the state forensic people treated this case. The system failed from the defense lawyers' standpoint. It is a total systemic failure…. There are a lot of people in my business who go around thumpin' their chest that this is the greatest system of justice on the planet earth. I don't necessarily agree with them. I think it is a flawed system and just like this case there are failures across the board…. Being a criminal defense lawyer is one of the greatest jobs on the planet. I am shocked that I lucked into this job. Because my function is to balance power -- prosecutorial power over here. My job is to get up every morning and make sure, just like in our constitutional system of government, checks and balances. We balance power.

These are defense attorneys at their absolute best, speaking as champions, not just of civil liberties, but of justice. After months of seeing defense attorneys at their most unholy during the James Ray trial, such genuine idealism gladdens my heart.

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Can the WM3 Clear Their Names?

Crossposted from Reflections Journal.

Will Open in New Window

In an interview with Amy Goodman, filmmaker Joe Berlinger expressed his dismay that the plea bargain that got the West Memphis Three out of prison after eighteen years failed to bring justice in the case. Under the rare Alford Plea, they are still guilty as a matter law, even though they are able to claim their innocence. The fight to completely clear the names of Damien Echols, Jason Baldwin, and Jessie Misskelley will go on.

Governor Mike Beebe was asked if he would pardon the three but he refused explaining that he only considers pardons after people have served their sentences. So, note to anyone on death row seeking a pardon in Arkansas. Your current governor won't consider it until after you're dead. Helpful.

Beebe said he had no plans to pardon the recently freed West Memphis Three. He cited his policy of not considering pardon cases until sentences were completed. He said it was his understanding that the West Memphis Three still would serve up to 10 years of suspended sentences.

Beebe also said if new evidence were presented that pointed to a different killer, then he would reconsider the case.

Governor Beebe says he will consider it if there is evidence pointing to a new suspect. This could be tricky as District Attorney Scott Ellington has made it clear he considers the matter closed. There are no plans in West Memphis to actually seek justice for Christopher Byers, Stevie Branch, or Michael Moore, whose brutal murder remains effectively unsolved.

Peter Jackson and his partner Fran Walsh intend to continue to fund an investigation. Having previously funded the DNA testing and other forensic research that debunked much of the prosecution's original case, they intend to now fund a wider investigation. So if a murderer is indeed to be found, West Memphis will again have Hollywood to thank.

Entertainment Weekly has learned that director Peter Jackson and his partner Fran Walsh will continue to fund the West Memphis Three investigation, even now that the men have been released from prison — free, but technically still considered guilty in the eyes of the law. “The ongoing work will focus on proving the convicted men’s innocence, as it always has,” says Jackson’s manager, Ken Kamins. He adds that the investigation will include “evidence testing and further investigation which will hopefully lead to the unmasking of the actual killer.”

The Lord of the Rings director has spent the past several years quietly funding private investigations and forensic experts to help clear the West Memphis Three. Jackson has been a longtime advocate of Jason Baldwin, Jessie Misskelley Jr., and Damien Echols — the trio of men many believe were wrongly convicted in 1994 of murdering three 8-year-old boys in West Memphis, Ark., and whose nightmare odyssey in the legal system became the subject of the award-winning 1996 HBO documentary Paradise Lost: The Child Murders at Robin Hood Hills. Eddie Vedder, Johnny Depp, Natalie Maines, and Henry Rollins were among the others who rallied to support the West Memphis Three.

“When Peter and Fran got involved, they had to decide how to best serve the case,” Kamins says. “Damien, Jason, and Jessie had great public advocates in Eddie, Johnny, Natalie, Henry, Paradise Lost, and everyone else who was raising money and bringing public attention to the case. Peter and Fran, therefore, decided to put their attention into funding and spearheading DNA work, hiring forensic and other experts, plus extensive private investigations into all aspects of the case.”

More detail on how the information provided by the Echols extensive defense machine was used to leverage the Alford Plea that got all three released is provided in an article by Devil's Knot author Mara Leveritt. In this thoroughly detailed piece she gives a blow by blow on how they narrowed it down to the juror misconduct issue and the fact that both sides were motivated to keep this from going through a lengthy new trial that looked inevitable. Some of this I've posted previously but it's as galling to read it a second time. Nothing quite makes the blood pressure spike like reading that the judge who oversaw the original trial took credible information of juror misconduct, sealed it, and declined the defense's motion.

The stunning information that the jury foreman at their trial had violated court instructions had come to light three years earlier. Little Rock restaurateurs Capi Peck and Brent Peterson, who had become supporters of the three defendants, hosted a gathering at Trio's restaurant in early 2008 for several local attorneys, hoping to enlist further support. At that event, one attorney mentioned knowing that another attorney had received phone calls from the foreman throughout the Echols-Baldwin trial.

The Echols team contacted that attorney and in May 2008, Lloyd Warford, of Little Rock, signed an affidavit stating that, at the time of the trial, he was working for the jury foreman, Jonesboro real estate broker Kent Arnold, on an unrelated matter. Warford said Arnold called him repeatedly during the trial, purportedly about the other work, but that during the conversations, Arnold spoke passionately about the trial.

. . .


Evidence from other jurors supported Warford's affidavit — and his belief that "Kent Arnold saw himself as the real hero of this trial," because he had informed fellow jurors of Misskelley's confession. A flip-chart used in the jury room, listing reasons for and against convicting Echols and Baldwin, referenced Misskelley's confession in the "pro" column. Notes kept during the trial by another juror also mentioned Misskelley's statement.

Judge David Burnett, who officiated at the trials and throughout subsequent circuit court appeals, ordered Warford's affidavit to be sealed, and for the next couple of years, it remained unknown to all, except the judge, the defendants and a small circle of lawyers. By 2010, however, defense attorneys were able to argue before the state Supreme Court that the juror misconduct issue, along with the new DNA findings, warranted new trials.

This is the judge whose professional dispassion was on full display recently when he referred to the recently released men as "murderers." He sealed evidence of juror misconduct in his court. I still can't get over that. When I first read about that last year, I just paced around the house muttering for twenty minutes.

The punchline on so much of this is that "justice" comes with a heavy price tag. I repeat, were it not for an all-star line-up of defenders who raised funds and donated money, three innocent men would still be sitting in prison. Meanwhile an obviously guilty man, James Arthur Ray, remains free on bond while his high priced legal team leverages every possible technicality to get him off. It pays to be rich in this country.

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More Earthquakes and Weirdness

Crossposted from Reflections Journal.

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Someone George Ure refers to as "Deep Source" did some unusual calculations on the Virginia and Colorado earthquakes. Ure describes the dialogue:

“Did you notice the Colorado quake was 111-miles from the border of Mineral County, Colorado? he began.

No, I hadn’t.

“Notice it…it’s important…”

“Uh…OK…”

“And what was the first Virginia landmark referenced in the USGS report?”

“Well, the quake was 5 miles from Mineral, Virginia. So what?”

“And how far is it between the quakes?” he continued.

Uh…1,460 miles, or so, I guess, just eyeballing it on Streets & Trips.

“Add up all those numbers.”
 
“11.”

“Hold that.  And how far from the Colorado quake to Mineral Well, Mississippi?”
 
“841 miles.”

“And from Mineral Wells, Mississippi to Mineral, Virginia?”


“About 700.”

“So here’s something to think about then:  Doesn’t it strike you as a synch-wink that the quakes happened approximately equally spaced from Mineral Wells?”
 
“Hadn’t really thought about it.”

“Then look 111 miles North and slightly East of Mineral Wells, Tennessee.  Tell me the name you see up there…”
 
New Madrid.

“Must I do all your work for you, George?”  Click.

I really have no idea if the calculations are significant or if this is just someone torturing mathematics to cosmically tie Tuesday's quakes to the all-important New Madrid fault line. It caught my eye primarily because I have been seeing 111 and 11:11 coming up constantly now for weeks. So has my husband and we always seem to experience these upticks at the same time. I don't really know what to ascribe the 11:11 phenomenon to. I read Solara's book years ago and I'm very aware that the sequence of numbers has taken on a range of meanings in new age circles. I'm agnostic on the various explanations for it but I've been observing and enjoying the phenomenon for years. I don't really need to know exactly what it means.

Likewise, I don't read a lot into synchronicities except in as much as they are a reminder that we are not really separate from what we observe. I don't think they're God or the angels pointing at anything or that they're necessarily significant in and of themselves. But like the 11:11 phenomenon, they seem to increase in periods of high weirdness. Periods like now, which was feeling very surreal for a week or two before the quake. They're happening constantly.

I did find it interesting that a quake affected DC just as I'm reading The Lost Symbol; a book that's been on my list for a while. I'm reading it now because I enjoy a light read when I'm sitting by the pool. Hours after reading that the National Cathedral in DC was damaged in the quake, I opened to the chapter that begins:

Washington National Cathedral is the sixth-largest cathedral in the world and soars higher than a thirty-story skyscraper.

The damage to the cathedral is a bitter pill for a lot of reasons, not the least of which is my Episcopalian upbringing. But there was a lot of damage to DC landmarks and I read this morning that the Washington Monument was more seriously affected than they'd previously thought. It's a deeply significant piece of architecture, owing more to the ancient obelisks of Egypt than George Washington the man. For more on the significance of DC and the Capitol Building specifically, I'd point you to earlier posts on some William Henry's research here and here. But to appreciate the Washington Monument, you have to consider the pyramidion, or benben, sitting on the top.

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I continue to be amazed that we, personally, had no damage. A few things fell off of shelves. The Capitol, which is farther from the epicenter, really took some hits. Of course so did the Target near our house. I went there Tuesday night to pick up a box of Chai and a lot of the ceiling tiles had fallen out and taken the metal slats with them. Big areas were roped off. Pier One was closed. I wonder what that looked like with all that glass and pottery.

We're also still feeling aftershocks. My daughter was awakened last night by the rattling of the mirror on her vanity. It was a 4.5.

Despite the minimal damage, there's a weird, war-zone feeling in the air. There are cops everywhere. I've never seen them out in such force. People are being pulled over left and right and not just on the main arteries. They're being very proactive; about what I have no idea.

There's just a strange charge to the air lately. It's been like that for a while and it seems to be building. I mentioned a while ago that our atomic clock lost its mind. We're still using it until we find a suitable replacement. It keeps accurate minutes even if the hour is, um, not. And it still gives the temperature inside and out. But it tells time in another dimension. It's barfing up things that aren't even numbers. It's just weird.

What I didn't mention is that shortly after the clock went off the deep end, my credit card terminal started acting strangely. I went to ring up a SALE and the L was backwards. I cleared it and hit SALE again. It came up normal and then the L flipped again right before my eyes. The next day it was destroyed when lightning hit the phone line. When I was setting up the new machine I asked the tech if he was familiar with such problems. I don't think he even believed me.

These things come to mind, in part, because in reading through Ure's blog, I'm seeing other people have written in about clocks and the like acting in a completely aberrant fashion. How much of this is that everything is made in sweat shops in the third world these days (I'm tired of returning malfunctioning electronics), how much of it is electromagnetic interference from all the solar flares, and how much of it is that we're crossing over into greater... surreality, I can't say. But things feel incredibly strange.

Meanwhile, I just keep dreaming about trees. The other night I dreamt that I ran into Bloomingdales to pick up a gift. (I don't really shop at Bloomies, ever.) The store was just so strange. Most of it was big, wide hallways made of wood, with wood sculptures of nothing but shapes; one was just a kind of curl. Barely visible from the halls were small showrooms of merchandise. It seemed like an odd way to design a retail establishment. At a certain point, I realized that the whole store was in a giant tree and the halls went through the branches. Then I woke up.

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James Ray Trial Jury Foreman Speaks

Crossposted from Reflections Journal.

The foreman of the James Arthur Ray trial jury has spoken to the press. Val Ripley shares the sense of agita of so many who are awaiting Judge Darrow's decision on new trial. But that's not all he shares with the friends of family of people who lost their lives in 2009. He was among the eight jurors who wanted to see Ray convicted for reckless manslaughter rather than the lesser charge of negligent homicide.

Ripley said he was at a loss as to why the defense would want to risk another trial, feeling that the negligent homicide verdict was more than fair, even as it leaves Ray liable for as long as nine years in prison.

"We were very close to the manslaughter conviction," Ripley said. "Eight of us wanted manslaughter, and the other four felt that he wasn't aware of all that those people were going through."

Mark Duncan makes the point that because Ray was acquitted of manslaughter, it's unlikely he'll be retried on that charge in the event that this goes to a new trial. As with the conditions of the recent release of the West Memphis Three, it's a sobering reminder of what a pale reflection of justice our court system is.



As is so often the case with jurors once they are free from the restrictions on media, he is annoyed at how much information was kept from them.

"There were a lot of things the jury should have known that were kept from us," he said, specifically mentioning the incidents that occurred at prior sweat lodges and the death of a seminar participant in San Diego in July 2009, just three months before the ill-fated sweat lodge ceremony.

Ripley is, of course, referring to Colleen Conaway whose suicide during Ray's Creating Absolute Wealth seminar remains unexplained. There is no doubt that getting complete information on just how many people were sickened at prior sweat lodges and that there was a previous hospitalization would have likely changed the minds of the four jurors who wanted the lesser charge. That's why Ray's attorneys worked so hard to keep out his history of reckless disregard for the safety of people who paid him thousands of dollars. The truth was not the defense team's friend in this case.

Like the other juror who spoke out after the trial, he found the pesticide poisoning theory risible. He also found Sheila Polk's case to be "outstanding"... as did I. He also found Truc Do impressive. I did not. In fact, it is my solemn prayer that I never have to hear her say "correct" again. Like nails on a chalkboard that woman's voice. But control freaks always rub me the wrong way. So maybe it's just me.

Most interesting, Ripley actually went to Angel Valley, met with Michael Hamilton, and visited the memorial circle.

"That was very helpful," he said. "It helped me to put it all in perspective."

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Yes, I Felt It Here ~ UPDATED

Crossposted from Reflections Journal.

Well, that was a little scary. No major damage to report here. A couple of small things fell. But I've never experienced vibration like that in my life. How's that for irony? Several years in Southern California and the worst quake I've ever experienced was in Virginia. I thought it must be at least a 4 but it turns it was close to 6 at the epicenter; it was downgraded to 5.8 from 5.9 over the course of the afternoon. This was a fairly shallow quake and it was close to a minute before the rattling completely stopped. I grabbed my hysterical 9 year old daughter and stood in the doorway until the house completely stopped jerking around.

But this isn't about me. I just find it a little odd that there were two quakes in the US of over 5 point magnitude almost exactly 12 hours apart. Late last night Colorado had experienced a 5.3 -- also very unusual for the region. The quake there centered in Trinidad was clocked at 11:46pm MT on 8/22. Ours, about 50 miles from here in Mineral VA was at 1:51pm ET on 8/23. That's a little too close for comfort in every sense.

The one in Colorado was the strongest in over forty years. As near as I can tell, this was the first quake in Virginia of such magnitude in over a hundred years. There was another 5.8 in 1897.



There've been a few of aftershocks in Virginia but I haven't felt them. The strongest was a 4.2 around 8:00 pm but I think they initially thought it was in the Charlottesville area because of the original posting which has been removed and replaced with one that puts it in Mineral. The other two were under 3.0. Trinidad, Colorado has had multiple aftershocks and there was a foreshock the day before of 4.6. As of this writing, I count 5 aftershocks above 3.0 in Colorado.

Over the past couple of days I've been picking my way through the most recent interview with Time Monk Clif High. I still haven't listened to all of it because I just haven't had the time, but I'm going to post it now because this really jumps out. Last night I noted that there was mention of high potential for earthquakes. I just went back and listened to some of the earlier parts of the interview et voila. In the fourth video a little before the 5:00 minute mark, someone asks Clif if he still predicts two quakes for North America. The interview is from August 12 and he says he's still looking at a timespan from Aug 17 - 19, so as he typically is, he's a few days off.

My ears had pricked up when I listened to that last night because I've been on earthquake alert myself for the past week or so. I just thought it would be in a more predictable location. I'm still concerned about California and noting Baja on my earthquake feed about daily; sometimes a couple of times a day. I had a fleeting thought a day or two ago that what I was sensing could be here but dismissed it.  I've experienced quakes here before but they've been of the momentary jolt that feels like a truck hit the building variety. Again, with history as my guide, I did not expect a major quake in this area. Joke's on me.

As ever, I offer up the Time Monk material without opinion on High's world view. He says things I agree with and things I don't... at all. In general, he's far more pessimistic than I am but I continue to be impressed with the technology he's developed for collating the collective unconscious. Turns out we humans, as a group, are fairly prescient.

I noticed this on Time Monk George Ure's blog the other day, for interest. A helpful reader noticed that the webbot data pretty clearly predicted the "global rev" eruption in Great Britain.

George, your comments and link Tuesday to the UK riots spreading and other stuff is right out of Clif’s Web-bot . He talks about the GlobalPop exhibiting “maniacal behaviour patterns”, and also for a really direct hit on his part – under the heading Tea Crazy – he writes:…”data sets have celtic isles as..center/focal point…of global revolution…British experience..provide emotional springboard…new subsets geographically tied to British Isles…long struggle against oppression/repression…challenges of mass national contention…fighting..displays as emotion…uncharacteristic of the national British character.

So the webbots predictions continue to be impressive on the global revolution.

While I was looking for that, though, I noticed something else from Ure that made me do a double-take.

What Clif and I are both worried about it how these events (or eventlets to coin a term for them) may presage that yet-to-be-noted reports about people “staring blankly’ ‘going into standing stupors’ and needing ‘help of others to survive’ which would seem to fit with that could happen to someone whose mental constructs are not ‘light enough’ to accept that the world is sinking back into what in previous ages was called “magick”.

They've been talking for a while about predictions of people just losing it and staring blankly into space. Here, Ure is putting that into context with a reader's experience of something I can only call a "reality glitch." It jumped out at me for a couple of reasons. One is that I've been noticing these "eventlets" or, to use my term, "reality glitches" for a while. I keep thinking I must be misperceiving but I'm less and less willing to say that. The other reason this statement caught my eye is that it echoes something I've been saying for a couple of years now -- that I see us entering a time of magic. I've been very reluctant to give details because what I see and sense... is just too weird. But I've mentioned it a couple of times; a quick search shows here and here but there are probably more. I don't know how George Ure means. I'm not even sure how I mean it but the future looks... surreal.

I think I just felt another minor tremor around 12:45am here. I'm going to keep checking the USGS site but nothing is showing yet. Weird day, anyway. But things are gonna get stranger. Just sayin.'


UPDATE: I did feel another quake last night. It took quite a while for it to show up in the reports -- and some of the smaller quakes seem to have disappeared from the site -- but it was a 3.4 and it occurred 12:45:26 this morning. I have to say it was very subtle. If I'd been doing anything other than sitting in a quite room typing I expect I would have missed it... as clearly I did the 4.2 last evening.

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Cafe

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Around the Web, Around the World

"Why Shamanism Now?" with Christina Pratt

The Shamanic Journey and Direct Revelation: Part 2

The shamanic journey allows the journeyer to receive direct revelation from Spirit. A direct connection with spirit is the birth right of every human and the shamanic journey is one of the most ancient and reliable forms of forging this connection. Once connected with Spirit within the journey state of consciousness the journeyer can find healing, protection, and a continual source of guidance. The shamanic journey is a paradoxical practice, requiring simultaneously a degree of focused discipline and free access to the imagination. At the same time the journey is purely question driven and occurs within the dreamlike landscape of your own symbolic language. There is no ultimate truth there with codified symbols and interpretation. The journeyer must craft the question so that it acts as a key to open the answer. And then the "answer" that may be as inscrutable as last night's dream must be accurately interpreted. Here in lie the greatest challenges in developing a powerful, passionate, and effective journeying practice. Join host and shaman, Christina Pratt, as she continues to explore the common mistakes, misconceptions, and false assumptions made by journeyers and remedies to correct them. In this Part 2 she will focus on the elements of mastering the art of shamanic journeying.

Tuesday, August 23, 2011 at 11:00 AM Pacific

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Why Shamanism Now? on Co-Creator Network
Questions? Comments? Call: 1-512-772-1938

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Just Energy Radio

Ghosts, Ghosts Everywhere!!!

Mark Hunnemann
Seeing Ghosts through God's Eyes
Twelve years ago he had his first paranormal encounter with what is called a shadow figure. Through the use of logic, science, and a biblical worldview, Mark asks and answers the question: do ghosts exist? There is no denying the paranormal activity, the question is, what is the identity of these alleged ghosts. With his unique methodology, he is able to discover new and compelling data that puts the answer beyond reasonable doubt.

Peter James Haviland
Poltergiests
Peter Haviland has been investigating the paranormal for over 20 years in Houston, Texas and the surrounding cities of Texas. He and his team, Lone Star Spirits have been documented in many books, newspapers, and local/national radio and television. Peter has worked on many projects with his fellow colleagues over the years in support of television projects and research on cases. His writings have appeared in books such as Ghosts in the Graveyard, The Worlds Most Haunted Places and Ghost Hunters Of The South.

Fri, Aug 26, 2011 3:00PM ET/2:00PM CT

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/just-energy-radio

Awake: Now What?

Kerrie O'Connor, Master Visionary, Medium, Clairvoyant, Coa

Kerrie O'Connor visits us again. She uses her amazing intuitive ability to help you transform and celebrate your life! Kerrie can energetically view your personal life history and blueprints, observe your true inner processes and help tune into and direct your soul's purpose. Right over the phone on her new radio shows!

Kerrie's mission is to remind and re-awaken you to your Divine Heritage. She can help you step out of your "stories" and into your POWER. Begin to release from negative thought patterns and blockages that hold you back.

Kerrie O'Connor has the amazing ability to energetically read your unique energy field and like a tuning fork, help raise your vibrational levels so that you can attract what you truly desire in life.

With the help of her Guides and yours, Angels, Ascended Masters and departed loved ones, Kerrie is able to tap into your soul to help you achieve and direct your purpose and passion in life.

What sets Kerrie apart and beyond what is known as "The Secret" is her intuitive ability to access your "Original Blueprints" and help you identify and release negative beliefs that have become your "story". Her mission is to help mankind step out of their stories and into their Divine POWER.

Kerrie has a flourishing practice based in Salem, CT, an alternative-healing venture where she specializes in personal and call-in sessions. She holds workshops and classes regularly and will travel around the country to present them.

For more information go to http://www.kerrieoconnor.com/

Sun, Aug 28, 2011 6:00PM ET

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/awake

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Horoscope for August 22-28

Cross-posted from Aloha Astro

Aries (March 21st - April 20th)
Mental and creative pursuits are more appealing than the emotional side of life this week, Aries. You may find yourself wishing your partner or family members were less needy, dramatic, or emotionally expressive and gave more of their energy to looking at things from a logical perspective or were more open to change and flexibility. Currently, the planets are stimulating your mind more than your heart and you are excited by the potential for fresh ideas or new social contacts that can advance your career and earning potential. The people close to you may feel insecure, unsure, and even threatened when you choose new activities or new friends over them. Reassure them that your own personal growth simply allows you to be more of the person they would most want you to be - yourself!

Taurus (April 21st - May 20th)
The planets support you in personal growth and attracting what you need or want, Taurus. However, there can be an easy path or a difficult path to follow. Neither one is right or wrong. The more difficult path of fear, worry, and emotional angst over work or health issues looks like the classic case of making mountains out of molehills, but you will learn just how powerfully you can build those mountains. It may not be easy to look away from those issues this week, but you have even stronger planetary energy that suggests using mind over matter, imagination, ingenuity, investigation, and communication to affect things on a very material level. List your problems or worries. Next to each one, write down solutions or other possibilities that you think would be good, better, and best. Creative life-scripting is a much better waste of time than fretting, isn't it?

Gemini (May 21st - June 21st)
Did this past weekend feel a bit slow and did you feel tired or languid, Gemini? The moon transiting your 12th house of the subconscious and dream state is to blame for the lethargy and dreaminess. Now the moon enters your 1st house of self at the beginning of the week and Mercury, the ruler of your sign, is about to turn direct after a retrograde period that may have kept your creative plans on hold. Yee-haw! Forward motion at last! But it seems you are not completely satisfied with how your money is flowing. Or you have not enough time to handle way too many tasks that both home and work require. Rather than beating yourself up over things, use your dissatisfaction to help you sort, eliminate, and prioritize on all levels. Despite your best attempts to micromanage your time, there may still be things that cut into your schedule, which are not personally productive. Be grateful for the time away from work, which is not ready to kick into full speed yet, anyway.



Cancer (June 22nd - July 22nd)
Balancing home, family, work, and an intimate relationship is the work of your week, Cancer. Pause and rest at home on Monday if you are able to do so. The planets indicate your energy is low then and a day to plan your week ahead and prepare for a fresh busy personal cycle would be wise. Some Crabs may have a radical change in work or career that upsets the entire flow of home life. A work-at-home job could take off now or you and a partner become workmates and business partners. There are more possible scenarios than I can write in this limited space. Increased physical activity, increased creative brainstorming with others, and a shifting of established work/family/home relationships and routines are the common themes. Energy picks up and flows out with much shifting and sometimes some confusion, but it is all pulling together by the end of the week.

Leo (July 23rd - August 22nd)
Changes in business or your investments and future plans can increase your income potential significantly, Leo. Do your research and when Mercury goes direct at the end of the week, make a fresh start or try something new. You may have some worry over the unknown factor, but "nothing ventured, nothing gained" is worth remembering when anxiety rises. You have one particular skill that you could master now that becomes a primary source of increased income for you. Advertise yourself as a specialist and see what happens. While the planets have their focus on you, it can be easy to lose sight of your partner or take them for granted. In your mind, everything you are doing to improve yourself and your business benefits them; therefore, you are expressing love through your actions. Make an effort to be verbally expressive in romance, as well.

Virgo (August 23rd - September 22nd)
Connecting with friends as well as networking for business reasons can take a lot of you at the start of the week, Virgo. This may be the kind of week where you feel you have things you must get through before you can be by yourself or do the things you want to do. Instead of feeling put-upon and letting resentment build on the inside, it may be better to declare your intentions and put your own needs before the needs of others. A tired, cranky Virgo is not a pleasant Virgo to be around, so putting your own happiness first benefits everyone close to you. A friend, group, or organization may ask for your assistance, but then ignore your wise advice. Don't take things personally, but do remove yourself and reclaim your sovereignty. Unexpected money or some other material gift may have a string attached or have to be used as soon as it arrives.

Libra (September 23rd - October 23rd)
You may have asked for increased business or more money, Libra. It could arrive now, but the downside is that the extra output of physical energy required to work harder could be taking a toll on your emotions. Your partner, family, and friends may be aware that you are extremely sensitive now. Some may be understanding and supportive, but others could get a bit of delight from seeing your image of perfection looking flawed like the rest of us mere mortals. I suggest you let go of your own high expectations of others and yourself this week and take things lightly if they go wrong or you become forgetful. The sterner and more controlling you try to be, the more resistant others around you become. Shifting energy this week affects you more strongly than most. By the time the weekend arrives, you will welcome a quiet time for your nervous system to recalibrate. Something you want to be perfect needs some more practice or polish before presentation next week.

Scorpio (October 24th - November 21st)
A lover or something you have been passionate about could come down off the pedestal this week, Scorpio. The feeling that no one or nothing is as perfect as you had believed can be especially sharp or poignant. What usually happens when you experience extreme emotions is an extreme outpouring of work or creative energy that is almost laser-like in its intensity. Now is no exception. The work arena currently looks like a place to show how unique and powerful you are. Even Scorpios who are not natural performers or artists may seek an impromptu audience to receive their emotional masterpieces, whether presented in words, music, or images. If you invite friends into your home, be sure to set clear boundaries. You may not know beforehand how much sharing of space you can tolerate, so be sure to have an escape plan or an agreed-upon departure time.

Sagittarius (November 22nd - December 21st)
Boundaries are shifting in business and friendships this week, Sagittarius. You may have grown too familiar or friendly with an employer and find yourself wondering just who the boss really is when your creative eagerness jumps in to take the wheel. It may be time to move beyond apprentice level at something and become a master. It may be time to risk self-employment in order to grow beyond an earning limit. You may be disappointed if you rely on a friend or organization now, but it could be your expectations are too great. The driving desire you have to increase your income may not be shared by others to the same degree. Being a self-employed person or a business owner might mean less freedom and play time and more responsibility and work, so be sure you are loving what you do.

Capricorn (December 22nd - January 19th)
Be careful when it comes to money at the beginning of the week, Capricorn. You may want something so badly that you are willing to believe anything or overlook some glaring pitfalls, especially if a home or property is involved. You have a planetary aspect right now that would make timeshare salespeople and shady realtors move in for the kill. Take time to think twice, explore other options, and put off making a decision until after Mercury turns direct on the 26th. Your personal presence and strong persuasive speech can make wishy-washy people tremble. Stay in integrity when dealing with people who are affected by your power now. If you are married or have a steady romantic partner, be sure to include them in your plans. Asking their opinion before making decisions that they should be a part of is a gesture of common courtesy that can help keep the peace in an otherwise hectic week.

Aquarius (January 20th - February 18th)
How you want things to be and how they are might not line up neatly this week, Aquarius. Part of the problem is timing. You may have to wait for the retrograde Mercury to fully be behind you and the sun to get settled into Virgo before things crystalize. Another reason for the delay is that you are either not sure about what you want or you don't feel you deserve it. Getting it might mean work you aren't willing to be tied to just yet. You may have to learn new things or have to become more effective in making business decisions. You may feel naive and inexperienced and not sure if you are up to the task of yet another round of changes. Putter your way through these dilemmas by taking care of mundane chores that need to be done and taking one step after another as they present themselves.

Pisces (February 19th - March 20th)
Your intuition and psychic guidance system is being colored by what you want to believe this week, Pisces. You may be right-on when it comes to things you have no emotional connection to, but if you have an outcome you desire, it will take a strength of will to release your attachment to it. There are potent manifesting lessons for you this week, as you observe that attachment pushes things away and non-attachment allows you to receive. Some other manifesting lessons involve learning how to be precise in your intentions through words or images and determining if you are wanting to manifest an actual thing or the emotion you think the thing will deliver. Some Pisces may have a windfall related to a partnership or have a change in personal values or tastes so profound that they find themselves attracted to a "type" they never were attracted to before.

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Astrological Trends for August 22-28

Cross-posted from Aloha Astro

A strong desire for change sets off the week on Monday, August 22nd, as the moon in the mutable air sign of Gemini forms a quincunx to powerful Pluto in the cardinal earth sign of traditional Capricorn and a supportive sextile to erratic Uranus in the cardinal fire sign of pioneering Aries. This aspect pattern makes you feel that something has got to give or a better way to do things can be found if you explore the possibilities. The sun in the fixed fire sign of creative Leo opposes inspirational Neptune in the fixed air sign of experimental Aquarius, indicating that there may be many mistakes and instances of trial and error before new creative ways to affect the future or solve problems with ingenuity can be found. Venus in the practical and mutable earth sign of Virgo, which is conjunct the sun in the late degrees of Leo, also opposes Neptune. Venus in Virgo also forms a quincunx to Uranus in Aries at lunchtime, giving you the mindset to try and try again and explore yet another new option. Mars, the planet of action, in the cardinal water sign of emotional Cancer forms a supportive sextile to Jupiter, the planet of growth, in the steady fixed earth sign of Taurus, but forms a challenging square to disciplined Saturn in the cardinal air sign of perfectionist Libra. You can achieve what you want on the material level right now, but not without some angst. Even after accomplishing what you set out to do, you may feel like you fell just short of your mark. Give yourself points for persistence and patience. Uranus in upstart Aries continues to square Pluto in establishment-oriented Capricorn and create the conflict between old and new, especially in politics and the world economy. Use this energy to your advantage to ruthlessly clean out your closets and release things you no longer need or get rid of anything that is broken to make room for new things. Early this evening, the flirtatious Gemini moon forms a favorable trine to Saturn in Libra, enhancing all relationships, but especially the romantic kind. The Gemini moon is also semi-sextile to Mars in Cancer and semi-sextile Jupiter in Taurus. Lively conversation can lead to pleasure on the physical and emotional level.



A second chance to present a creative idea is possible on Tuesday, August 23rd, as the moon in the imaginative air sign of Gemini forms a stimulating sextile to Mercury retrograde in the fixed fire sign of creative Leo. The sun has left the fixed fire sign of Leo to enter the mutable earth sign of Virgo. The solar season of Virgo coincides with children returning to school, the season of harvest, and preparation for the winter months ahead. It is not easy to imagine cold winter days just yet when the weather is still so summery, but the daylight gets shorter every day and many of us turn our attention toward home maintenance and getting our "nest" ready for more indoor activities. A wonderful, productive trine forms now between Venus conjunct the sun in Virgo and Pluto in Capricorn, which will be in effect until August 30th. This aspect will increase trust and intimacy in established relationships and help singles to know exactly what they want in terms of an enduring romantic relationship. It will also help you to manifest what you need materially and if you are an artist, builder, or hobbyist, now is the perfect time to work on your projects for both pleasure and profit. Venus and the sun in Virgo also oppose Neptune in Aquarius conjunct Chiron in Pisces. This mixed combination of precise and diffuse, emotional and intellectual energy can create confusion around how to achieve your end result or a desire for a perfection you can only imagine but not translate into material form. This afternoon and evening, no other major aspects to the Gemini moon occur, making it a good night to enjoy TV, a movie, a good book, or conversation with a friend.

An emotional day is ahead on Wednesday, August 24th, as the moon in the cardinal water sign of emotional Cancer forms a supportive trine to inspirational Neptune in sensitive Pisces. Make the most of the peace and harmony this aspect delivers early today. At midday, the moon in Cancer forms a sextile to the sun conjunct Venus in Virgo, which makes people more compassionate and concerned for the needs of other people. If you have to ask for a favor, now is a good time to ask before the cardinal T-square develops later today, making people too opinionated, controlling, inflexible, or defensive. Uranus in Aries forms a square to both the moon in Cancer and Pluto in Capricorn. The Cancer moon also opposes Pluto. Later this evening, the T-square fades as the moon falls out of aspect to Uranus and Pluto. Now the Cancer moon sidles up to Mars and forms a supportive sextile to Jupiter in the fixed earth sign of steady Taurus. Tempers cool down and people are ready to apologize for outbursts and drama. Any emotions that were stirred by the T-square this afternoon should stabilize tonight. Physical activities or paying attention to your physical and material desires and needs is relaxing and grounding. There is nothing wrong with eating a big bowl of ice cream when it has a medicinal purpose!

Tread lightly around others, especially your significant other or boss, on Thursday, August 25th, when the moon conjunct Mars in the cardinal water sign of Cancer squares Saturn in Libra. Only one person can be boss right now and it looks as though each person thinks he or she should be IT! At lunchtime, the moon and Mars form a mild semi-sextile to Mercury retrograde in Leo, which can make power struggles verbally comical for eavesdroppers, but not necessarily for those wrapped up in their own debate. The moon moves away from Mars as the evening progresses and forms no other major planetary aspects. The need to control or argue diminishes, but now is not the time to issue ultimatums or create any further emotional drama. Comfort food, a warm bath, and a soft bed are a delight when the moon is in the home-loving, nurturing sign of Cancer.

An inspired solution to a problem may come about as a result of an emotional need on Friday, August 26th, when the moon in the final degrees of the cardinal water sign of Cancer forms a quincunx to Neptune in the fixed air sign of Aquarius. You may also receive a blessing or gift that arrives just in the nick of time. At midday, the moon leaves Cancer and enters the fixed fire sign of Leo, where it forms a semi-sextile to the sun conjunct Venus in practical Virgo and a quincunx to Neptune in intellectual Aquarius conjunct Chiron in sensitive Pisces. In the early afternoon, the Leo moon also forms a favorable trine to genius Uranus in the cardinal fire sign of headstrong Aries and a quincunx to potent Pluto in willful Capricorn. This amazing blending of energy makes me think of a theater production with many sets, scenes, actors, and an excited audience in place, waiting for the magic of the show to begin. Together, all the planets today make a theater production of their own. If you have a major plan or project you wish to pursue or present, now is the time to gather your talent and energy so you can direct the play! There is an audience waiting to see what you've got for them. Mercury is about to go direct - are you ready?

On Saturday, August 27th, the moon in the fixed fire sign of Leo joins Mercury in Leo. Mercury has gone direct and the extra oomph it receives from the moon feels like a big cheer and applause. Together, the moon and Mercury in Leo form a supportive sextile to Saturn in Libra, which assists you in working cooperatively with other people, especially in creative endeavors. The moon and Mercury also square Jupiter in Taurus, which creates a reality check or stopgap if your enthusiasm gets too out-of-control or your plans are too over-the-top. At lunchtime, the moon/Mercury square to Jupiter fades and the moon forms a semi-sextile to Mars, the planet of action, in nurturing Cancer. You and everyone else will be more demonstrative in body and emotions now. Early this evening, the sun conjunct Venus in Virgo enters a favorable exchange of energy through a trine to Jupiter in the fixed earth sign of Taurus. If you have any shopping to do, this is the perfect evening to do it, especially if you have been delaying purchases of electronics or appliances during the Mercury retrograde period. You will find good deals on practical things now.

Another day that resembles a theater production arrives on Sunday, August 28th, as the moon in the late degrees of the fixed fire sign of dramatic Leo opposes Neptune in the fixed air sign of detached Aquarius. Early this afternoon, the moon leaves the sign of Leo and enters the mutable earth sign of Virgo, where it joins the sun in Virgo and then Venus in Virgo. The moon will intensify the aspects that are already in place: the trine between Venus/sun in Virgo and Pluto in Capricorn, the opposition between Venus/sun and Neptune in Aquarius conjunct Chiron in Pisces, the quincunx between Venus/sun and Uranus in Aries. The trine between Venus in Virgo and Jupiter in Taurus is the last aspect to be intensified as the evening progresses. In many ways, all the energy of the week seems to come around again for a review, much like the curtain call at the end of a play, but this time, the "actors" seem to be performing better, since they had their dress rehearsal! The heavy influence of Virgo energy seems to be saying, "Pay attention and get with the program!" Now is the time to take care of the details, itemize, and prioritize as you write your own script for the week ahead. When all the planets got activated under the Cancer moon earlier in the week, things began to move on the emotional level as desire for new beginnings and forward motion was stimulated. Now the Jupiter/Venus trine and the Virgo moon activating the sun and Mercury in Virgo are taking care of the practical side of things and showing you how to manifest your desires and put your plans into action.

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