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"Why Shamanism Now?" with Christina Pratt

The Wild Heart Hypothesis with Will Taegel

The Wild Heart Hypothesis states: "If we are to survive and thrive as humans on planet Earth, we will need to dive deeply into the roots of the shamanic era and retrieve our soul connections, our intimacy with all forms of the Universe," explains our guest Will Taegel. Will joins host and shaman, Christina Pratt, to share the Wild Heart Hypothesis and what the role of the Wild Heart is in shaping our future. We will explore what it means to develop right relationship with your own Wild Heart, how you can do that, and why it is essential to do so now, so that you can participate in shaping a new direction for humanity on Earth. Will, a renowned author and leading-edge thinker, practiced psychotherapy for decades, which lead to serving as an eco-spiritual mentor, received training in Native American shamanism and co-founded a three decades old eco-spiritual community Earthtribe with his spouse, Judith Yost. He joins us for the next show in the Society of Shamanic Practitioners sponsored interview series where we explore how contemporary shamans are meeting the challenge of their world where the relations of things are profoundly out of balance. It is the ancient role of the shaman cross-culturally to tend the balance of things. How are these shamans meeting this extraordinary need today?

This week's guest:
Will Taegel, D Min, M.Div, LPC, LMFT

Renowned author and leading-edge thinker Dr. Will Taegel grew up on the Llano Estacado in Texas where he began his lifelong and intimate relationship with Nature. Choosing an integrative approach early in his career, Dr. Taegel received his formal education at Emory University gaining a Masters degree; and at the University of California Berkeley where he earned a Doctorate from San Francisco Theological Seminary. Concurrent with his formal education he explored his Native American heritage and received traditional training in the ways of the Shaman.

Always fascinated and happily challenged by human psychology and one's relationship to the self and others, Dr. Taegel conducted a successful psychotherapy practice for 35 years, which evolved into his current role as a sought-after Eco-Spiritual Mentor. He has written eight books weaving together nature, spirituality, psychology, and relationship, and is Vice President of Community Leadership for Wisdom University.

Dr. Taegel and his spouse, Judith Yost founded a three decades old eco-spiritual community in the Texas Hill Country called Earthtribe. His newly published book is entitled The Sacred Council of Your WILD HEART: Nature's Hope in Earth's Crisis, and is currently available in paperback and Kindle at Amazon.com and on Earthtribe.com.

Tuesday, July 19, 2011 at 11:00 AM Pacific

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

All episodes are now available in the iTunes Podcast Library.

Awakenings with Michele Meiche

Bridging Science and Spirituality with Lynne McTaggart

One on One with Michele." Host MICHELE MEICHE shares her weekly Soul Insights, Ascension Information; as well as 2012 & beyond updates. She answers your questions, and does channeled readings. What is your Soul's Purpose & how can you actualize this? What is your role, your path, and what are the signs in your life and in the world telling you? How do you acclimate to the New Energies of the New Emerging Consciousness? In addition to calling into the show, you can also email your questions to be covered on air at awakenings@selfinlight.com. In the second portion of the show, Michele Meiche welcomes our Awakened Guest of the week. Michele dialogues with spiritual teachers, healers, conscious experts, visionaries, awakened leaders, authors, conscious beings and people of all walks of life that are focused on living consciously. --- Lynne McTaggart, one of the preeminent spokespersons onconsciousness, the new physics and the science of spirituality, is the award-winning journalist and author of six books, including the worldwide bestsellers The Field and The Intention Experiment. As editorial director of What Doctors Don’t Tell You (www.wddty.com), she also publishes one of the world’s most highly praised health newsletters and runs highly popular health and spirituality teleconferences and workshops. Lynne is also the architect of the Intention Experiments, a web-based ‘global laboratory’, involving an international consortium of scientists and thousands of people around the world testing the power of intention to heal the world. Please visit:
www.lynnemctaggart.com
www.theintentionexperiment.com
www.thebond.net

Wed, Jul 20, 2011 03:00PM

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/awakenings

Just Energy Radio

Joseph P. Farrell & Steven Manly

Edmund Marriage
The Shining Ones

Edmund is the Principal of the Patrick Foundation, an Independent Researcher with a background in Business and Land Management. His Golden Age Project inspired by the work of Christian and Barbara Joy O'Brien promotes the recovery of past knowledge in order to resolve many of today's problems. He believes that re-establishing high standards of training and knowledge for all important roles, forms a priority in establishing good Government and successful Social Organisation and Cohesion.

Fri, Jul 22, 2011 03:00PM ET

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

Awake: Now What?

Jennifer Hoffman, Intuitive, Channel for Uriel, Energy Reade

Jennifer Hoffman is a life-long intuitive whose unique gifts include an amazing ability to read clients’ energetic fields, view their soul purpose, karmic wounds and lessons and bring their energetic vibrations into alignment with their soul’s desire for healing and wholeness in body, mind and spirit.

She works with the Archangel Uriel, along with her guides and angels, those of the client and departed loves ones who wish to participate, providing accurate and focused guidance to raise energetic vibrations and create a clear path to a joyful, fulfilling life.

Jennifer’s unique life history has been an inspiration to her clients as she has had two near death experiences that occurred during life-changing incidents. As a young child she had a paralyzing illness and was unable to walk for several years. Then as a young teen she was hit by a car and walked away from the accident. Jennifer was told that she had a mission here which would be revealed to her at the right time. After graduating from college Jennifer began a career in technology during which, in her words ‘all I wanted to do was be a corporate vice president.’ But the Universe had other plans and after experiencing six layoffs in less than seven years, Jennifer decided to focus on using her spiritual gifts as she was guided to.

Jennifer created the Uriel Heals website and weekly newsletter in 2003, after receiving a visit from the Archangel Uriel when she was asked to begin channeling messages and since that time it has grown to a large global audience and is translated into dozens of languages.

For more information go to www.urielheals.com

Sun, Jul 24, 2011 06:00PM ET

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/awake

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Horoscope for July 18-24

Cross-posted from Aloha Astro

Aries (March 21st - April 20th)
Healing on a soul level is possible for you this week, Aries. At the beginning of the week, you may want to retreat so that you can observe the transformation, but even if you have no time to do this, it will happen anyway - most likely during your dream state. A renewed love of your life and yourself is the result of this deep energy shift. When you begin to present the new you, there may be some challenge from people at home, at work, or in your relationships who think you should have checked with them first or who are caught off-guard, but things fall into a new order by the end of the week. The list of things you launch or accomplish bears testimony to the positive new power at work in you.

Taurus (April 21st - May 20th)
A powerful week of growth and learning awaits you, Taurus. Friends and organizations are supportive of you and can help you meet your goals. Teaching, learning, writing, and communicating are supported, but there is one small blip on the radar screen. If you enter a conversation already thinking someone will want to oppose you, they probably will. All your lessons this week come down to state of mind and belief. If you think something is too incredible or impossible, it will be and you may not get it, but if you allow for something wonderfully impossible, you could manifest something beyond your imagination. By the weekend, you will be feeling like a Master Mighty Manifestor.

Gemini (May 21st - June 21st)
Your creativity and drive is at an all-time high, Gemini. The desire for more money is the motivating factor. You are razor sharp when it comes to knowing what you must do to increase your business or advance in your chosen field, but there may still be blocks to abundance that are inherited from your family or left over on a deep emotional level from past trauma or failure or a past life of restriction or austerity. A surprising emotional revelation may occur this week that helps you get to the core of your prosperity block. Would being famous or highly successful make you feel trapped or pinned down? Do you fear being stuck doing just one thing forever? Having a flex schedule and doing something that offers you variety may be the solution to your self-created limitations. Give it thought - you'll get it.



Cancer (June 22nd - July 22nd)
Busy Crab, scurrying around this week, Cancer! Even though the planets are cutting us all some slack now, you may not notice because you are cracking the whip over your own back. Maybe you can feel the last of the sun's personal support this week as it finishes transiting your sign and enters the fire sign of Leo this weekend. Leo rules your 2nd house of money and personal values. This week, you will be expecting the plans you put in place during your own solar cycle to show some signs of fruit - as in money! You could be very aggressive and competitive about pursuing income now and this brings out your tenacious side. People are the means to more work and resources, so you will be communicating and schmoozing. People who oppose you may be surprised to meet your hard, cold shell. The expressions, "Don't cut off your nose to spite your face," and "Don't burn your bridges," apply now.

Leo (July 23rd - August 22nd)
If you believe what you do and how you do it is valuable, you will see your income reflect this belief, Leo. You are no more or less busy with work, business, and career than you have been all summer. Your skills and knowledge are in demand. There are planets whispering in your ear now, telling you that your belief in yourself and your worth could be making you a victim of your own limiting beliefs. Giving it away won't make people want you over the next person who offers the same skill or service you do. In fact, if you don't think what you do is absolutely fantastic and worth beaucoup bucks, your employer or customer won't, either. Then, your competitor collects the bucks you are denying. The sun steps into your 1st house of self this weekend. Time for some spit and polish and standing at full attention.

Virgo (August 23rd - September 22nd)
Relationships are your focus this week, Virgo. If you are single and looking for love, it is possible that you may meet someone at the beginning of this week who shares your same values and spiritual beliefs. Practical, analytical, discerning, and sometimes indecisive by nature, you may be shocked by the suddenness of love at first sight. Old fears surrounding a commitment rooted in memories of past failed romances may come up for clearing now. All Virgos, single or matched, may have emotional revelations in all kinds of relationship that lead to self-examination, communication, and a healing that takes relating to a new level.

Libra (September 23rd - October 23rd)
Have you found a passion to pursue and your life purpose yet, Libra? If not, then you may get serious about learning what that might be this week. If you already know you are aligned with your passion and purpose, then you will redirect attention that may have been scattered or diluted in the last few weeks back to what you intend to create or accomplish now. Another possibility for some Libras is a psychological and physical healing that could be a result of forgiving yourself for something and/or accepting all of you - especially the part that strives to be socially accepted, trustworthy, and conservative that is at war with the part that is independent, unpredictable, and liberal.

Scorpio (October 24th - November 21st)
Planets are pouring passion and sensuality into your soul, Scorpio. Maybe it's the sultry nights or all the naked skin summer offers up inspiring you to express that famous seductive Scorpio sexiness. If you have a lover, they are lucky to have you now, but be careful not to smother them with too much of a good thing. Playing a little hard to get can work to your advantage. Whether you are romantically inclined or not now, the same planetary essence responsible for passionate expression in love can also have a pronounced effect on creativity and intuition. This, in turn, affects money. Money and work can come at your command when you turn your attention away from pursuing passion and focus it on receiving and accepting what you ask for.

Sagittarius (November 22nd - December 21st)
Absolutely do not gamble or risk more than you can afford to lose this week, Sagittarius. It may be hard to resist taking a risky chance with money or even romance, but there is a 50/50 chance you will lose. If you win, there is a chance it could shock and rock the established order of your universe, so be prepared to win. Now, what Sagittarian can resist an opportunity like that? The same kind of energy that sends a warrior into a battle where the odds are in the enemy's favor is guiding you now. Keep your eye on the prize, whatever that may be to you. Home and family may need some time and attention now, in between an above-average workload. Keep your physical energy up with healthy eating and deliberate rest and exercise. A short sightseeing trip or visiting company is possible, too.

Capricorn (December 22nd - January 19th)
This is one of those horoscope weeks, Capricorn, where what may happen depends a lot on where you are now in your life and relationships. The only constant for all Capricorns is increased creativity and communication that can be applied toward advancing your business or career. Home, family, and relationship are the unsettled areas. Buying or selling a home or suddenly having to move is possible. A sudden change with a family member moving in or out or a surprise, such as news of an unexpected pregnancy or hearing, "Mommy, look what followed me home! Can I keep him?" is also possible. Also, how you feel about someone could be up for review or they may be reviewing how they feel about you. Emotions run deep for you this week and decisions may be along the lines of serious, but the "Highest Good" rule is also in effect, so no matter how things may appear in a life-changing moment, it is for the best.

Aquarius (January 20th - February 18th)
Write some catchy money and prosperity affirmations, Aquarius. Now, put them to music or a beat and cheer yourself on all week long. Seriously - take this seriously, but have fun with it, too. Make that Treasure Map you've been putting off. Make a new list of the things you want, both materially and emotionally. This is a powerful week to clarify what you want and make it manifest, especially for you. If you keep shining the high light of joy and cheerful, focused intent on the fear monster in your closet of the subconscious that threatens you with failure and loss, you can bring about a radical change. That monster may not leave, but it will know who is boss. You'd better get ready to receive, because the rewards for your work and creativity can only be accepted by you. Say yes, yes, yes to what you want.

Pisces (February 19th - March 20th)
A new cycle begins for you this week, Pisces, as the week begins with the moon in your sign. You may have read a few other 'scopes or my weekly astrological trends report and gotten the inkling that it is a potentially powerful week for manifesting dreams and material things. It is even more so for you if you take the time to clarify what you want. Are you old enough to remember the Sears catalog that came to your house before Christmas when you were a child? There is a certain age of innocence in childhood that doesn't question how the wished-for item will get paid for or when it will arrive. The price next to the item desired is meaningless. If you can tap into that innocence, let go of the how and when, and the judgments of what is realistic or not, you may have a surprising manifestation so good, it has to be true! You may also recommit to a business plan and get back on track with business promotion.

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Astrological Trends for July 18-24

Cross-posted from Aloha Astro

Last week, you may have felt like a mouse scurrying through a maze, having to perform certain tasks before you could scurry to the next, never able to see your way through that maze. I am happy to tell you that this week is much easier and has a slower pace. A peaceful start to the week is likely on Monday, July 18th, due to the moon in the mutable water sign of Pisces joining Neptune, the planet of inspiration and spirituality, and Chiron, the planet of healing, also in Pisces. This wonderful combination of energies makes you more aware of your own divinity and finer human qualities, like compassion, forgiveness, and gratitude. It is also a highly creative energy, which gets extra assistance now from the moon/Neptune/Chiron trio forming a supportive sextile to Jupiter, the planet of optimism, abundance, and expansion, in the fixed earth sign of sensual Taurus and a sextile to intensifying Pluto in structured Capricorn, which, in turn, activates the extremely fortunate trine between Jupiter and Pluto! Now is the perfect time to manifest dreams and wishes or begin large creative projects. With faith and other positive emotions, you can make things real and tangible. There is pleasure to be had in creativity and working with material things. Uranus in the cardinal fire sign of Aries is still involved in a problematic square to Pluto in the cardinal earth sign of Capricorn. I have mentioned this aspect in the last two weekly trends I have posted. After having a bevy of strange, disruptive, unwelcome events and breakages of material objects that I didn't request through deliberate intent - and after hearing other people recount similar stories of their last few weeks - I think it is safe to say that Uranus square Pluto is the culprit. I now think of this square as "The Lemony Snicket Square," with Pluto being the terribly nasty and frightening uncle who continually makes life miserable for his unusually unique and talented young nieces and nephew as they move through one unfortunate event after another. Youth, change, and new endeavors have the edge of resiliency thanks to Jupiter in Taurus semi-sextile to Uranus in Aries. Mars in Gemini semi-sextile Venus in Cancer mixes the fun of flirtation and mental stimulation with the comfort of symbiotic romance. Early this evening, the romantic Pisces moon forms a quincunx to Saturn in Libra. Beauty really is in the eye of the beholder now as whatever or whomever we put on a pedestal becomes the perfect embodiment of what we find most alluring in a partner or material object.



After last week's three-ring circus of activity, you may be taking things cautiously on Tuesday, July 19th. The mutable Pisces moon suggests adopting a "wait and see - you go first" approach on Tuesday. The Pisces moon forms an encouraging trine to Venus in Cancer and it becomes safe to be emotionally expressive. Unfortunately, the moon/Venus trine can lull you into feeling everyone IS you at the emotional level. Remember that the planets work their magic on other people, too, but not everyone has the same feelings about the same things! A reality check comes at noon as the moon in Pisces forms a challenging square to heated Mars in the mutable air sign of impish Gemini, saying, "I beg to differ!" and sparking lively debates. Early this evening, the Pisces moon forms a quincunx to Mercury in Leo. When it comes to communication, people will vacillate between aggressive and dramatic outbursts to passive or shy retreat. If I were a novelist, I would use this aspect pattern to help me write the early chapters of a love story where the two lovers have met but are unsure of their attraction and feelings for each other, resulting in conversations that mimic a fencing duel. If you happen to be at such a stage in a dating relationship, you may think the script this evening came right out of a romance novel. Don't take every word seriously, but consider the hidden meaning behind every word.

Make the most of harmonious and creative water energy early in the day on Wednesday, July 20th. The moon in the late degrees of Pisces forms a flowing trine to the sun in Cancer, helping you to manifest things easily. The sun in the cardinal water sign of Cancer is quincunx Neptune in Pisces. If you tenaciously persist in following a dream or direct your imagination with intent, you can expect satisfaction. At lunchtime, the energy will shift noticeably as the moon moves into the cardinal fire sign of Aries and joins Uranus, strengthening the square between Uranus and Pluto in Capricorn. Just when things felt like they were moving safely and smoothly, Lemony Snicket strikes again! Expressions like "flying off the handle" and "jumping from the frying pan into the fire" come to mind. Slow down and think about consequences before taking action. Do only the things that must be done and avoid taking on more than you can realistically manage.

After all the soft, feminine water energy of the first part of this week, the energy of Thursday, July 21st, may feel distinctly masculine and harsh. As the moon in the cardinal, masculine air sign of "I am" Aries begins to move apart from freedom-loving, independent Uranus in Aries, it opposes restrictive Saturn in "you and me" Libra. Absolutely everything you perceive today may be through a lens of self versus other and compromise may feel unsatisfactory. It is alright to discern and weigh options, but it is not wise to make independent decisions today without consulting the people or person your decision may involve, nor is it a good time to come to a conclusion about a relationship. Your mood and mind may change after this opposition aspect fades, leaving you to wonder, "Whatever was I thinking?"

Relationship could be "interesting" or complicated on Friday, July 22nd, as the moon in the cardinal fire sign of self-aware Aries forms a challenging square to needy, clinging Venus in the cardinal water sign of Cancer but a supportive sextile to active Mars in the mutable sign of platonic Gemini. People want attention for themselves now but are not as eager to bestow affection or attention if they feel like someone expects it from them or demands it. There is no give-and-take now unless both agree to keep it light and playful. It is best for all couples to join their energy in outward-directed, non-romantic activities. It is also possible that the excitement raised during shared activities can be misconstrued as sexual or romantic attraction. I did say it could be complicated! At midday, the Aries moon forms a supportive trine to Mercury in the fixed fire sign of Leo. This aspect encourages brainstorming and creating original ideas, plans, or projects. Relationships settle down and there is no more confusion surrounding romantic intentions this evening as the Aries moon forms a sextile to Neptune in Pisces. You know what you want and the signals you receive should be clear. This is a great date night for both singles and matched couples.

On Saturday, July 23rd, the moon enters the fixed earth sign of Taurus and joins Jupiter in Taurus, which intensifies the magnetic attraction factor of the trine that has been in place for a few weeks between Jupiter in Taurus and Pluto in Capricorn. Bigger and more in the material realm is what this aspect is all about. Keep your thoughts positive to manifest what you want and need. Hit the cancel/clear button any time your thoughts or energy dive down below positive expectation. The Universe will deliver what you think about with strong emotion, so watch what you think and feel today. The sun has now left Cancer and has entered the fixed fire sign of Leo. You may be aware of the energy shift from the element of water to fire as the sun in Leo trine Neptune in Pisces heightens perceptions and sensitivity. Early this evening, the moon in sensual Taurus conjunct Jupiter forms a quincunx to Saturn in Libra. I recommend a gourmet dinner out, a couples massage, or an evening of dancing, music, or theater. Artists or lovers of art have a deeper appreciation of beauty now. Couples trying to conceive a child may be able to do so now.

A quiet and subdued morning arrives on Sunday, July 24th, as the moon in the fixed earth sign of Taurus is free of any major planetary aspects. You may not be permitted much lazing about, though, due to Mercury in the fixed fire sign of Leo forming an opposition to Neptune in Pisces. Calls from friends to come and play or help them with projects may intrude on morning reveries and peaceful solitude. Oh, well. That's what friends are for, right? Early this afternoon, the sun in the fixed fire sign of Leo forms a supportive trine to Uranus in the cardinal fire sign of Aries, creating the urge to get out and play, compete, or find a challenging adventure or new location to explore. The Leo sun also forms a quincunx to Neptune and Chiron in Pisces, making moments and activities between people heartwarming and memorable. Early this afternoon, the Taurus moon forms a semi-sextile to Mars in Gemini. Mars, in turn, forms a semi-sextile to Venus in Cancer and Venus forms a semi-sextile to Mercury in Leo. All these happy little semi-sextiles linking these planets together remind me of a jingling charm bracelet. Your Sunday should be a delightful unfolding of pleasant activity and conversation - a perfect end to a productive, not-so-bad, sometimes challenging, but overall good week. Satisfaction reigns at the close of the day.

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Harry Potter Is Not a "Jock"

Crossposted from Reflections Journal.

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Hat-tip to Andrew Sullivan on the most wrong-headed analysis of Harry Potter I think I've ever seen, which, to my great surprise, comes from Amanda Marcotte at Pandagon. In addition to getting important plot points completely wrong, Marcotte reveals far more about herself than she does the Harry Potter series. Marcotte attempts to address the Harry Potter as "nerd" with "misfit" friends narrative. I don't know whose narrative that is but it isn't Rowling's, which Marcotte tangentially acknowledges before going on to debunk it anyway.

Harry, Marcotte explains, isn't a "geek." He's a "jock." While it's certainly true that Harry distinguishes himself as an athlete in the richly symbolic game of Quidditch, I think to call him a jock is a bit of a reach. Nor are athletes so feted at Hogwarts as to make such "jocks" the in crowd. The social structure is far more complex than that. There is no jock/geek dichotomy in the Harry Potter universe.

As Sullivan points out, Marcotte misidentifies both Harry and Ron as "stereotypically privileged." Ron is best known for coming from a poor family and relying on frequently embarrassing hand-me-downs. The wealthy Malfoys openly mock the Weasleys for their poverty. Harry is an orphan raised by relatives who treat him like Cindarella and his own hand-me-down clothes have the added benefit of being absurdly large because they come from his fat, bully cousin. He spends the first years of life consigned to a cupboard under the stairs. Neither of these boys' lives could be remotely described as privileged.



Far from being part of any "jock" in crowd, Harry is not popular. He's famous. And fame is a fickle mistress. Like so many famous people, he learns that the only thing the media and the media consuming public enjoy more than building a hero up is tearing one down. He endures periods of ridicule and ostracizing that are at least as horrible as the life with his Aunt and Uncle; a life he still has to endure every summer. 

She's somewhat closer to the mark with her positioning of Snape but still misrepresents the story arc.

The most genuinely nerdy character is Severus Snape, which becomes even more clear in the flashbacks where Snape hates James Potter for his easy charm with the ladies, especially Lily, who Snape loves.  Snape is shown as being tortured by the popular kids when he's young.  As an adult, he and Harry don't like each other, and it's a continuation of the nerd-jock animus that both of them feel.

Snape is something of an odd duck but we only see a snapshot of his conflict with James Potter; one in which we learn that Harry's father was a flawed person. (None of Rowling's characters can be defined in simple black and white terms.) But to cast even that conflict as jocks vs. nerds is reductive. And to characterize the dynamics between Harry and Snape similarly is ludicrous. Harry's conflict with Snape starts because Harry's convinced Snape is trying to kill him. He thinks that, in part, because Snape gives off a decided whiff of malevolence. Subsequent revelations such as his history as a "death eater" only seem to confirm that assessment.

Harry's girlfriend is also a poor Weasley and Marcotte gets her wrong, as well.

Harry's girlfriend is not only a star athlete as well, but is clearly the most popular and beautiful girl in school, with all the boys fawning over her.  It's a feminist touch that Rowling didn't make her the wizarding version of a cheerleader, but that's what makes the books so perfect for the modern era.

There's far more than a touch of feminism in the Potter series as Laura Hibbard points out in her post on the inspirational and unapologetically smart Hermione Granger. But Ginny Weasley, while athletic and attractive, is no Heather.

There really is no such in crowd or out crowd at Hogwarts. The closest thing to such a dichotomy rests in something far darker, which Marcotte reduces to the point of absurdity in her analysis of Hermione.

Hermione is the best piece of evidence for the "band of misfits" theory, but she still doesn't rise to the level of a true geek character.  Oh sure, she gets taunted for being Muggle-born and is the smart girl who annoys the other kids.  But while I'd say she's a tad nerdy at the beginning of the books, she evolves into one of the popular kids at Hogwarts.  She becomes very beautiful, is good friends with the most famous young man in their world, and she dates a famous Quidditch player.

Hermione's "Muggle-born" status makes her situation a little more precarious than the risk of a bit of teasing. It's a matter of life and death. One of the more overt themes in the Harry Potter series is the analogy to Nazi Germany in which Muggles are the equivalent of Jews and other "mud people." This is something Rowling makes even more obvious in that they're referred to by "pure blood" aspirants with the pejorative "mudblood." As Voldemort rises to power again, Muggles are targets of his genocidal vision. I don't think it's an accident that Voldemort's major supporters the Malfoys are extremely blond.

Ironically, for an author setting her story in a magical realm, Rowling's social commentary is more overt than her brilliantly structured basis in Western Alchemy. But she's not dealing with issues as pedestrian as high school cliques. She's taking on the class system at it's most horrific. Voldemort is, among other things, a Hitlerian figure. He is also one of the most well-drawn portraits of psychopathy in modern literature but that's a discussion for another day.

Harry's goodness is defined in part because he embraces genuine outcasts: Muggle-borns, a giant half-breed, an impoverished werewolf, a poor wizarding family with a socially suicidal affection for Muggles... He forms his associations based on character rather than prestige or lineage. Harry's own mother was also Muggle-born and embraced by James Potter who also risked his life to associate with people based on who they were rather than their bloodlines. To reduce such richly drawn characters and themes to a discussion of the popular crowd is just silly.

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Dendrolatry

Crossposted from Reflections Journal.

Monday evening during a rather intense thunderstorm I sat watching an albeit somewhat pixilated Kill Bill Vol. 1, for the umpteenth time, and noodling on the computer. I didn't realize just how a bad a storm it was until an incredibly loud crack of thunder shook the wall next to me and something shiny flew across the living room a couple of feet from my face. What I thought must have been a shard of glass from a broken window turned out be lightning. There was no damage at all to the window or to me. The tree outside the window, however...

Our phone lines also got a good jolt that night and we've been replacing things all week, starting with the router which was magically transformed into a paperweight. So I've been offline for a few days. Turns out that thing about turning off and unplugging all your appliances during thunderstorms might have some merit.

We've been learning a collective lesson about the frailty of our technological society. In our endless to quest to subdue and control nature, nature keeps winning. Just ask the good folks in Japan who thought loading up one of the most seismic areas on the planet with nuclear plants was a good idea. There's power and then there's power.



We were fortunate. I wasn't hit by a refracted lightning bolt. And we've been able to replace our damaged electronics without incurring too much expense. Mostly, I've been left with a sense of awe.

When I was taking pictures of the tree for the property manager, I found myself overwhelmed by the beauty of the tree itself. Trees have always amazed me. I've been drawing pictures of them and writing poems about them since I was a child. They're one of the few things I've always been able to draw well. I drew trees with images of women woven into them and great serpent roots. I drew trees with open eyes.

My fascination with trees has grown over the years; the mythology and geometry. When I read Robert Graves's White Goddess years ago, I learned that many ancient cultures had elaborate mythical and cultural interrelationships with trees. Graves wrote extensively on the Beth Luis Nion alphabet and calendar of the Celts, for instance.

The Norse Yggdrasil is one of many "world tree" symbols; it's origins probably tracing back into its shamanic forbears. Trees are often used by shamans as entry points into non-ordinary reality because the roots go into the lower world, the trunk to the middle world, and the branches to the upper world.

When I first began learning about some of the deeper symbolism of trees it answered unasked questions that had been rattling around my subconscious: Why had I always been so entranced by trees? Why does the contemplation of them lull me into a state of reverie? Why of all the emanations of nature is it trees that I find so ineffable?

The tree is one of our most potent archetypes as a symbol of life and unity between the seen and unseen worlds; spirit and matter.

As I examined where the river of current had run down the tree into the earth, the myth that sprang to mind, though, was Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden. There, Eve met the serpent -- the shining one -- who coiled up the tree, or spine. And, in one of those strange vignettes where myth merges seamlessly with the world of form, I learned that a neighbor who bears one of the many names of the great mother goddess was hit in the leg by one of those shining sparks of electricity that shot through so many of our windows that night.

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Around the Web, Around the World

"Why Shamanism Now?" with Christina Pratt

Rebroadcast: Shamanism and the Trickster

This week will be a rebroadcast of a past Why Shamanism Now show. Please visit www.whyshamanismnow.com or iTunes to download all of our past shows. Live shows will return July 19 with guest, Will Taegel.

"The Trickster cannot be trusted," writes author Lewis Hyde, "It is a contact that puts us slightly at risk; we open ourselves to disruption whenever we call on him." But it is that opening that allows miracles, the impossible, surprise and the reversal of fortunes. Work with the Teacher supports us in our mastery along the steady path of our lives. However it is the Trickster who reveals the short cuts that allow us to get there-to the full, loving expression of our soul's true purpose-while we are still young enough to enjoy the fruits of our labors. Join host and shaman, Christina Pratt, this week as we explore the ways that we unwittingly cut off The Teacher in our lives, relying instead on old, soul-killing patterns of judgment, control, and distrust. Yet even when we are at our most wretched, positional and righteous in our suffering the Teacher-usually in the guise of the Trickster-is there to open the way back to balance and wholeness. Author Lewis Hyde explains that the trickster made the world as we actually find it. Other gods set out to create a world more perfect and ideal, but this world--with its complexity and ambiguity, its beauty and its dirt--was trickster's creation, and the work is not yet finished. Join us as we explore the art of the Teacher and within that, the life saving, sacrifice demanding, crazy logic of the Trickster.

Tuesday, July 12, 2011 at 11:00 AM Pacific

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

All episodes are now available in the iTunes Podcast Library.

Just Energy Radio

David Rountree: The Science Of Ghost Hunting

David Rountree
The Science Of Ghost Hunting
David is a professional member of the American Association for the Advancement of Science, the Audio Engineering Society, the International Frequency Sensor Association, and is also affiliated with the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers. David began his research into the paranormal professionally in 1976, and has investigated cases scientifically from Rhode Island to Key West, Florida. His Book Paranormal Technology: Understanding the science of ghost hunting, hailed as a new paradigm in paranormal research and investigations techniques.

Fri, Jul 15, 2011 03:00PM ET

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

Awake: Now What?

Scott Lindquist, Author, Crime Prevention Practitioner

Scott returns since we had trouble with connections last time. Join us while we discuss his book "The Jesus Factory" and much more.

Scott Lindquist is a certified crime prevention practitioner and crime prevention specialist. He is a graduate of the Florida Crime Prevention Training Institute, and has written three non-fiction books on rape prevention. He has been featured internationally in Cosmopolitan Magazine (both US & UK) as well as other magazines in the Caribbean and in Australia.

He has given hundreds of crime prevention seminars and been interviewed on hundreds of TV and radio stations worldwide. He has made it his life’s work to find solutions to violence against women. This new fiction work carries on his commitment to find solutions to gender injustice at its very core. He is a committed follower of the Christ and is a member of Unity Church in Gainesville, GA. where his wife is Senior Minister .

For more information about the book go to www.thejesusfactory.com

Sun, Jul 17, 2011 06:00PM ET

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/awake

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Horoscope for July 11-17

Cross-posted from Aloha Astro

Aries (March 21st - April 20th)
Aries is a pioneering fire sign, but this week, some water and earth will soften and stabilize you, Aries. If you feel like you have been spinning since the new moon of the first of the month, you are right - you have been. Now you are coming to rest on a few clear ideas or goals and you are vocalizing or taking assertive action. You cannot repress your creativity or your dreams. Many Rams will get a financial boost when the full moon in the 10th house of career brings something to a culmination point or makes a career move certain. Home and family bring you pleasure now, but if your work is at home, you may find it difficult to work around a partner or family members. A friend may have some suggestions for a home office or work space to suit your needs.

Taurus (April 21st - May 20th)
"Something of value," is what I heard when I looked at your chart this week, Taurus. "Strange, but good," is another possibility. Money could come from surprising sources, possibly a windfall or inheritance, when you least expect it. Nothing can really go wrong for you now while Jupiter visits your sign and the sun and Venus are making you feel sure, secure, loved, and loving. Everyone feels like a brother or sister to you now, which helps you make the most of this week's full moon in your 9th house of higher education, foreign travel, and philosophy. You delight in learning new things, meeting new people, or planning a trip or relocation. Writers, teachers, or salespeople can accomplish a lot now because the planets are blending drive with imagination, speed, and the potent power of desire. You know where you are headed, even if the path isn't entirely laid out before you yet.

Gemini (May 21st - June 21st)
"All you need is love," Gemini. You have an inner confidence in the tendency for things to always work out in the way that is best for you, which will help you in making important decisions. Although work and money may matter this week, love and shared resources are the important things. If it feels like love, or makes your heart or gut feel content and secure, you are willing and ready to commit to your chosen person, investment, or course of action. If it doesn't feel like you think love should, or it upsets or frightens you, then you are just as prepared to sever ties, withdraw your support, or even go to court over an issue. The full moon in your 8th house is not playing around when it comes to intimacy, business partnerships, investments, and the shared assets of marriage/divorce. Love is your compass and self-worth is your true north.



Cancer (June 22nd - July 22nd)
Expect a change at work or in your career at the beginning of the week, Cancer. This may be just what you want now while the planets are making you restless, bored, creative, and desiring some attention. Please don't be upset when I say that some Crabs can get so emotionally caught up in their own dramas or perceived woes that they behave like immature teenagers. The planets are emphasizing YOU and having fun with friends, along with a subconscious Puckish-ness that wants to poke at things and stir up some trouble just to see the effect, which is why "teenager" came to mind. The full moon in your 7th house of marriage and the hidden self may bring an actual marriage proposal from a friend who is passionate about you - or your current partner may be your strongest ally now - but it is just as likely that this full moon is telling you to get serious, pay attention, and act with greater maturity.

Leo (July 23rd - August 22nd)
Last week was a rollercoaster ride, wasn't it, Leo? Thankfully, there are simpler energy patterns for you this week and a greater concentration of focus on your work. The full moon in your 6th house of work, service, health, and habits will help you clear out time-wasting activities from your schedule. Most importantly, you might make a schedule now - I'm sure last week blew your schedule to pieces! When it comes to business, get things in writing. Your word and handshake mean something to you, but not everyone thinks like a Leo, and there is a planet now that can throw you some sucker punches in the communication department. Meditation, quiet time, and gentle exercise can help counter the effects of overwork and excessive thinking. Confide in your partner and have a romantic escape together this weekend, even if only for a few hours. You will reconnect and feel refreshed.

Virgo (August 23rd - September 22nd)
Finding your dream home or deciding to purchase something large or valuable may occur at the beginning of the week, Virgo. The opportunity could be presented by a friend who knows what you have been looking for and thought of you as soon as they saw it. The full moon this week in your 5th house of creativity will manifest in different ways for Virgos depending on what age and stage you are in life. If you have been considering parenthood or trying to conceive, now may be the right time for you. Other Virgos can take a friendship to a more serious, passionate level or take a hobby or particular form of artistic expression more seriously. It seems you already have a waiting audience. If speaking, teaching, marketing, or publishing is involved, the doors fly open for you now.

Libra (September 23rd - October 23rd)
This week is only slightly less intense than last week, Libra. Chalk up discomfort to the full moon in stony-faced Capricorn in your 4th house of home and psychological foundations conjunct Pluto, the great transformer. If you feel like a burning phoenix or have mental images of The Tower tarot card, that's why. Of course, Saturn in your 1st house is also struggling to stand strong in doing what you love career-wise, and relationships are turning on and off as fast as a strobe light. Confusion between emotions and thoughts is possible, as well. The good news is that you are certain and secure in your purpose and a business plan, and you can creatively manifest financial help, investors, or sponsors now when you speak passionately about what you love.

Scorpio (October 24th - November 21st)
The full moon this week occurs in your 3rd house of imagination, local neighborhood, communication, and transportation, Scorpio. Before the full moon arrives, it spends some time in your 2nd house of money, stimulating your desire to think of ways to increase your income. A partner may help you brainstorm some unusual ideas that become feasible after the full moon, or you may devise a plan to collaborate with a competitor. Mutual support can be a win/win situation when you realize that there is enough money and business for everyone. The ability to think creatively and to think BIG is the gift this full moon brings. Boundaries dissolve for you now.

Sagittarius (November 22nd - December 21st)
Show up and collect the check, Sagittarius. You make a point of being on-time and up-front at the start of the week, eager to work and just as eager to make sales or communicate to get things accomplished. You feel the urge to tie up loose ends now as the full moon signals an ending of a cycle at the same time the transit of the moon through the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd houses in your chart signals a new cycle. Confused? Being a mutable fire sign enables you to multitask well as you complete some old things and start new projects simultaneously - all the while planning, thinking, and talking. You may have a partner who catches a ball when you drop it, or who reminds you of the importance of financial responsibility as the full moon culminates in your 2nd house of money and personal values.

Capricorn (December 22nd - January 19th)
If you are feeling a bit battered by the tempestuous planetary energy of last week, Capricorn, then I advise you take a few personal days at the start of the week to rest and reflect. Some unusual messages may come to you from out of the blue that stimulate your creativity and lead to new ways of looking at things. The full moon in your 1st house of self indicates it is time for you to pay attention to your appearance, the way you connect with others, your tastes and preferences, and the people, places, and things you identify with. If you have drifted, especially in business, now is the time to redirect your energy to what matters most. Renew your commitment to yourself and your goals.

Aquarius (January 20th - February 18th)
The best way to overcome a fear is to move through it, Aquarius. This week's full moon activates Pluto in your 12th house of the subconscious and the collective. Right before the full moon slips into this deep well of your soul, where dark demons and bright angels lurk, it spends the beginning of the week in your 11th house. Friends and the Internet both may fill your mind with too much drama and stimulation, making it too easy for you to slip into fear-based thinking. Withdraw midweek to examine the nature of the darkness you fear. What or who have you imagined is too big and powerful? Are they really? What would happen if you acknowledge the reservoir of power within yourself?

Pisces (February 19th - March 20th)
Career and income are highlighted for you this week, Pisces. I see the tendency for you to "should" on yourself. You may be doubting your own talents or the service, information, or product you sell. You may not think any of it is what is "right" or in-demand. Before you tear it up, trash it, or seek a way to make it better, why not accept that it is all perfect just as it is now? Years ago, when I took oil painting classes, my teacher would tell me that at any point in the development of my painting, I should be able to consider it finished - just as it is. The one thing you CAN change, as indicated by the full moon in your 11th house of friends, groups, and organizations, is your reach, audience, or venue. Reach out to more people and look to new markets. The weekend is a time to integrate the new expansion.

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