Thanksgiving Day History —
Thanksgiving Day History: Thanksgiving is a day to spend some time with the people we care about, and to think about what it is that has made us the way we are today. It is a time of year to be thankful for everything we have. There’s something about the warm, coziness of being home with family for the holidays that lifts everyone’s spirit. Thanksgiving is a day filled with the sound of a crackling fire and the smell of a turkey roasting in the oven. But how did it all come about?
Get a Free and Instant Free Tarot Card Reading, + a Three Card “Love” Reading!
Thanksgiving Day of today is the celebration of the Pilgrim’s meal with the Native Americans on the fourth Thursday of November. It commemorates how newcomers were first welcomed by celebrating the harvest with their Native American neighbors. Originally, it was traditionally celebrated on the last Thursday of November in the early 1800’s, but left up to the individual states to decide when each would celebrate.
Sarah Josepha Hale is a writer known for campaigning for an official date for 40 years through letters to political leaders to get this holiday recognized. Finally in 1863, President Lincoln issued a proclamation that all states will celebrate Thanksgiving on the same day. This act was an effort to unite the North and the South, but due to the rebellion of the North’s authority, the holiday was not consistently celebrated on the same day until after Reconstruction.
Get a Free Tarot Card Reading!
A joint resolution was signed by Congress and President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1941 to change the holiday to the fourth Thursday of November rather than the last, believing the earlier economic boost to be beneficial to the United States economy.
Thanksgiving Day History – Canada
Canada’s Thanksgiving is very similar to the American celebration, marking the successful harvest of French settlers in modern-day Canada. This celebration takes place in October when the weather is warmer. In 1957, Parliament moved it from November 6 to October, declaring, “A Day of General Thanksgiving to Almighty God for the bountiful harvest with which Canada has been blessed—to be observed on the 2nd Monday in October.” Feasting on turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, gravy, and corn are common the weekend before. Vacations and parades are also traditional.
Thanksgiving Day History – Germany
Germany celebrates the Harvest Thanksgiving Festival in October, which, like American celebrations, consists of feasting and religious traditions. Their Thanksgiving takes place on the first Sunday of October. Erntedankfest is essentially a harvest festival that gives thanks for a good year and good fortune.
The Japanese observe Labor Thanksgiving Day, which has roots with harvest celebrations but now celebrates labor, production, and thankfulness. Derived from ancient harvest festival rituals named Niinamesai, its modern meaning is more tied to a celebration of hard work and community involvement, hence its translation: Labor Thanksgiving Day.
Thanksgiving Day History – Africa
A variation on America’s Thanksgiving can be found in the West African nation of Liberia, which was founded in the 19th century by freed slaves from the U.S. Mainly celebrated by Christians, Liberians take the concept of the cornucopia and fill their churches with baskets of local fruits like bananas, papayas, mangoes, and pineapples. An auction for these is held after the service, and then families retreat to their homes to feast.
The Netherlands observes a Thanksgiving Day service to honor the Pilgrims that lived in Leiden before continuing on to Plymouth. The people of Leiden still celebrate the American settlers who once lived there with a non-denominational church service on the fourth Thursday of November. Afterwards, there’s no turkey, but cookies and coffee are offered.
Thanksgiving Day in the United States is a holiday on the fourth Thursday of November. It is a day for families and friends to get together for a special meal. On this day, people express gratitude and thankfulness to God for his blessings and pay their thanks to dear ones for their immense love & support in their life.
Thanksgiving Day History – Food
The American tradition is highlighted by the Thanksgiving meal. Turkey is the most common main dish of a Thanksgiving dinner. Ham is often served alongside turkey in many non-traditional households. Delicious, classic recipes are always in style for a Thanksgiving feast. America’s favorite classic side dishes for Thanksgiving are mashed sweet or white potatoes and gravy, stuffing, corn muffins, cranberry sauce, and either a green bean, corn or Brussels sprouts casserole. Desserts include: pumpkin, apple or pecan pie.
Prayer of Thanksgiving!
Thank you, Father, for having created us and given us to each other in the human family. Thank you for being with us in all our joys and sorrows, for your comfort in our sadness, your companionship in our loneliness. Thank you for yesterday, today, tomorrow and for the whole of our lives. Thank you for friends, for health and for grace. May we live this and every day conscious of all that has been given to us.
Create a Gratitude Tree!
A gratitude tree is a fun way to share what Thanksgiving means to each person. You can free-cut the shape of a tree with lots of branches from a brown 12″x12″ sheet of paper, then tape it to your dining room wall or attach it to the refrigerator. Cut out leaf shapes from various fall shades of paper. Let each family member write something for which they are thankful on a leaf and attach to the tree with tape.
Thanksgiving Day History – The Centerpiece
A variation could be a Thanksgiving Centerpiece. Cut a branch or two from the yard and put in a vase. Cut leaves from colored construction paper and put a string on each one. Each person takes a leaf or two and writes their name and date on one side and what they are thankful for on the other side, then hang them on the branch that would be in the vase in the center of the table. Leaves can be carried over from year to year as new ones are added. If your celebration includes many, you might want to have a side table for the tree, with cut greens from the yard, pine cones, and a few Christmas ornaments around the bottom.
Thanksgiving is the Day for giving Thanks. Here is a list of our Top 15 Reasons for which we are Thankful!
1) Freedom Despite frustration with politics. I’m thankful to be living in the U.S. I’m very thankful for the men and women — and their families — serving in our military.
2) Friends and family. I’m thankful for new relationships and connections this past year — both online and right here at home. Of course, I love my long-time friendships as well.
3) Healthy Children. Children from families who eat together on a regular basis are more likely to have family support, positive peer influences, and positive role models. The world of tomorrow will inherit the children of today.
4) Nature. I’m thankful for the beautiful world around me — for the changing seasons, the brilliant colors, the promise of coming spring.
5) Finding money in your pocket. Money that hasn’t been budgeted for, remembered, or owed. It is disposable income in the truest sense of the phrase.
6) A pet. Having a pet helps you stay connected to life. They are great companions and the perfect best friend. They are always around when you need them and provide constant and loving companionship. They ask for very little in return, they just want to be where you are.
7) Your health, even on days when it isn’t perfect. Being healthy means that your body is functioning as it should, without pain or discomfort. When we are in good health, we can enjoy all the good things in life, in moderation, without guilt or shame.
8) Your support system. It can be people at work, at home or spread out all over the country. Knowing there are people who are there for you can make all the difference. They are people who will lift you up and give you whatever you need with only a moment’s notice.
9) The healing power of music. Music has the power to heal and to join people together in peace. The spirit of music is within us all. Music expresses that which cannot be said and on which it is impossible to be silent.
10) Laughter. It makes us happy and healthy. Humor lightens your burdens, inspires hopes, connects you to others, and keeps you grounded. Nothing diffuses anger and conflict faster than a shared laugh.
11) Desserts. To live without them is to live in a colorless world. Eating desserts means that you have a good sense of what you want. We feel like we are feeding our soul with food that makes us feel like we’ve finally found Heaven. Desserts make life more enjoyable.
12) Police Officers, Firefighters, and all First Responders. These brave men and women risk their lives daily to save the lives of others. They work long and crazy hours around the clock, and rush to scenes helping complete strangers without thinking twice. They put themselves on the front line of dangerous and traumatic events every day.
13) Love. Love is accepting difference. It is letting each one be who they are without fear of censure. Love is an unselfish, loyal concern for the good of another. It is a wonderful feeling.
14) Good food and Clean Water. Good food gives us the energy we need to survive. Fresh water is one of our most vital resources. The quality of our water is directly linked to the quality of our lives. Without good food and clean water, the body cannot grow or perform at its best, our organs stop working, and the body eventually dies. We are blessed to have the best of both.
15) Money. Money is great because it means that life is not a constant effort at keeping our heads above water. When we have money, we are able to live life to the fullest, enjoy adventures, and make the most out of life.
Twelve Thanksgiving Fun Facts:
Benjamin Franklin wanted the turkey to be the national bird, not the eagle.
Americans eat 46 million turkeys each Thanksgiving.
According to the Guinness Book of World Records, the largest pumpkin pie ever baked weighed 2,020 pounds and measured just over 12 feet long.
Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin’s first meal in space after walking on the moon was foil packets with roasted turkey.
The heaviest turkey on record, according to the Guinness Book of Records, weighs 86 pounds.
Californians consume the most turkey in the U.S. on Thanksgiving Day!
Female turkeys (called hens) do not gobble. Only male turkeys gobble.
The average turkey for Thanksgiving weighs 15 pounds.
No forks at the first Thanksgiving, only spoons and knives.
Wild turkeys can run 20 miles per hour when they are scared.
Thanksgiving is the reason for TV dinners. In 1953 Swanson had so much extra turkey that a salesman told them they should package it onto aluminum trays with other sides like sweet potatoes.
Campbell’s soup created green bean casserole for an annual cookbook 50 years ago. It now sells $20 million worth of cream of mushroom soup.
The Autumnal (Autumn) Equinox—also called the September or Fall Equinox—is the astronomical start of Fall in the Northern Hemisphere and Spring in the Southern Hemisphere. On the two Equinoxes every year the Sun shines directly on the Equator and the length of day and night is nearly equal – but not exactly. The September Equinox marks the moment the Sun crosses the celestial equator – the imaginary line in the sky above the Earth’s equator – from north to south and vice versa in March.
The Fall and Spring Equinoxes, the seasons, and the changing length of daylight hours throughout the year are all due to one fact: Earth spins on a tilted axis. The tilt — possibly caused by a massive object hitting Earth billions of years ago — means that for half the year, the North Pole is pointed toward the Sun. For the other half of the year, the South Pole gets more light. It’s why we have seasons. Equinox means “equal night.” And during the Equinox, most places on Earth will see approximately 12 hours of daylight and 12 hours of night.
All things must die before they can be reborn, and all spiritual ascent requires descent first. We are a reflection of the Universe that surrounds us, what takes place outside of us, also takes place within us. This means that those who long for the light must first face the darkness within themselves. It is on the Autumnal Equinox, that this stage of inner preparation for enlightenment can begin. We are making way for the return of the Sun on the Winter Solstice, and it’s rebirth on the Spring Vernal Equinox. This is why it is so important to use this time of universal balance to hold gratitude in your heart for the life lessons that have helped you grow, and let go of everything else that does not serve you spiritually.
In China the September Equinox is celebrated during the Mid-Autumn Festival, also known as the Moon Festival. The bounty of summer’s harvest is celebrated and the festivities are rampant with moon cakes, round pastries made from bean paste and other sweet and/or savory ingredients. It is said that having the cakes will bring the eater good luck. Lighting sandalwood sticks, the candles, and lanterns proceeding the age-old chanting, burning paper devils, praying for the family’s safety and prosperity are the basic procedures. Each year when the Mid Autumn Day is approaching, thousands of Chinese people, especially the Han People, will head backs to their homes from all over the country for a family get-together.
Head to a local farm to harvest items for a meal to celebrate the arrival of fall. Visit an Apple Orchard, Visit a Pumpkin Patch, or Visit a Corn Maze for harvest dates and how to find a pick your own farm near you. Create a meal from local seasonal foods. Invite your friends and family over to enjoy the Fall Harvest. Have your guests join you in creating a gratitude and/or project list. Decorate your home with fall decor and make a few fall crafts to display. This is a good way to include children in the festivities.
For those who love crafts, it’s a great time to start some fall-inspired crafts. There are all sorts of fall crafts you might like to try. A few ideas include: Carve some shrunken apple heads, make leaf prints, craft a fall wreath, frame fall foliage for decoration and use harvested corn to make corn stalk decorations. For those who love food crafts, fall is the ideal time to get into making preserves, pickles, sauces and frozen goodies. If you’re a photographer, artist or writer, try to capture the essence of fall in photos, artwork or word form. Don’t just focus on the changing leaves and bountiful harvests, consider the deeper meanings of the season as they resonate with you.
On September 28, the New Moon brings with her the opportunity for creativity—appearing dark, or empty, like fertile ground. New Moons happen when the Moon is between the Sun and the Earth. Over the following 14 to 15 nights, the Moon appears to gather more light from the Sun, becoming a crescent and eventually a Full Moon, and so brings with her the power of growth and potential. The New Moon in Libra is known as the zodiac’s natural peacekeeper. A lot of people consider this to be the energy of level-headed logic and fairness at all costs, especially since one of this sign’s symbols is the scales.
Libra is the sign of balance, relationship, and justice. Libra reminds us that equity cannot exist when we are forced to hide a part of ourselves, our stories, or our truth. The New Moon in Libra is ripe for both reality checking and dreaming. The zodiac’s Queen of Cause and Effect wants us to thoroughly consider the consequences of our actions this month. As the New Moon in Libra dances through our zone of divine details and daily practices, it brings the perfect moment for considering “wellness” in the most inclusive sense of that term. Wellness of body, mind and soul.
When the Moon transits the Libra zodiac sector, it is better to defer important decisions for later, but solutions to existing problems could be easy found. It is a time of justice and impartiality. Let this Moon remind you that this life is a crazy quilt of surprise endings and beginnings. It is a time to realize that we are not always right. The Moon in Libra stimulates our desire for harmony and balance, while the sense of beauty, refinement and aesthetic increases. It is a time for gratitude.
Libra is the first Autumn zodiac sign, marking the start of the fall and harvest season. Gardeners that work with Moon phases will sow seeds of leafy and short-root plants during a New Moon. As the Moon waxes, its tidal pull draws water up to the top of the soil nurturing the seed. Stop now to take stock of what you’ve been working on and of where you’ve put your energy since the spring. Untangle yourself from anything that doesn’t bear the fruit you’re craving to cultivate. Then be super-intentional about what you take on from here as you move forward. Trust your instincts.
The New Moon is all about a new cycle, and the Libra New Moon is all about finding ways to re-establish balance that has been lost. Libra doesn’t just appreciate balance — Libra also seeks out imbalance and fixes it. Make it your personal mission to compromise, since the Libra New Moon could initiate pleasant negotiations or sweet heart-to-hearts. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself wanting to play peacemaker during this transit!
This New Moon, in the sign Libra this September, loves to love. Libra is a social air sign, surrounding itself with others, and trying to keep things peaceful and pleasing. One of the most beautiful qualities of the Libra sign, within the New Moon, is the ability to relate. We truly can relate to others if we recognize our amazing ability to see the “other side,” and to put ourselves in someone else’s shoes. It’s time to start a new habit of really appreciating the other person’s position, especially when things get sticky.
New Moon Energy can be powerful. Tapping into this energy can support our dreams and desires. We can harness the energy of the New Moon to fulfill our visions and make our desires come true by creating a New Moon ritual. This ritual should be a time where you can relax and light a candle and maybe some incense, too. Listen to your heart and write down on paper what you truly desire in life. Do not ask for too much, keep your list simple and short with no more than ten goals or wishes. Declare to the New Moon what your vision is. Declare it boldly and with courage. Speak them loudly. By physically speaking them you symbolize your intention to manifest your goals.
A New Moon in Virgo is a strong one. The energy from Virgo has ambitions kicking into overdrive and brings productive energy, more than we are used to. If we do not prepare ourselves for the change in energy, we could find ourselves feeling overwhelmed beyond function. If we are prepared for this burst of Virgo energy, we can ride it for all its worth and get things done. If you are not used to this kind of intense energy, you might waste it if you don’t harness it.
This Virgo New Moon Goddess is assisting all of us in putting our lives in order, taking steps to finish what we’ve started, while finding solutions that are natural, essential, and economical. The Virgo New Moon Goddess seeks maximum efficiency, especially in health and habits, to help with our work lives and daily routines. We are looking for elegant solutions in our lives and she can help. Not in the fashion sense, though she can be that, too, but in precision, quality, and ability to get things done. Elegance is a balance of simplicity and precision honed to gracefully deliver maximum results, with the ability to quickly spot problems and hone in on the details. The Virgo Goddess is a learn-it-so-you-can-fix-it kind of gal.
We have a very exciting happening with this New Moon. This Moon is also called a Black Moon as it is a second New Moon that appears in a calendar month. Most years have twelve New Moons, one each month. But our calendar is not perfectly synchronized with astronomical events. Therefore, every now and then, a year has thirteen Full Moons. When this happens, the New Moons is also referred to as a Black Moon.
When the Black Moon arrives, a shift in the energy of the Universe is underway. Our attention might shift to new interests and/or occupations. We may meet new people or drift from old ones. What once seemed so important to our well-being, loses its appeal and we find deep inner shifts reflected in changes we once could never have contemplated. Insights and wisdom will be coming to us thick and fast, so it is essential that we take time to process and make sense of what information it holds—and the reasons it is coming to us at this exact time. Allow more quiet time in your daily routine.
The Dark Moon is where the real growth occurs. When we go through the energy shift of the Dark Moon, it is vital that we discard outdated belief systems, let go of irrational and debilitating thoughts, untangle ourselves from toxic dynamics, and become aware of how we are holding ourselves back by repeating harmful patterns of behavior. Black Moons are important for clearing negative patterns and catapulting us forward with a clearer, more focused mind.
New Moon Energy can be powerful. Tapping into this energy can support your dreams and desires. This New Moon is about bringing good health, honor, and riches. It brings people together and is a good omen for ending conflict through peaceful negotiations. This is a time to make your dreams come true through patience, open-mindedness, and hard work. One way to connect to this energy and influence is to use the Moon’s energy to help set our intentions and clear negativity. Be clear on what you want going forward.
Incense is commonly associated with cleansing, and the fragrant smoke from burning herbs or resins has been used for cleansing negative energy for centuries. Sage is the most popular and burning sage is a great way to cleanse the aura as well. When reading about working with sage, you may see the phrase “smudging ceremony.” The word “smudging” sounds like it might imply using the ashes; however, it really means “to pass something through smoke” or “to pass the smoke over and around something.” It is the smoke that purifies. Use a sage bundle or stick incense, light the end, let it burn a few moments, and blow it out. The end should be glowing red, with smoke coming out of it. Move the smoke over and around the item, space, or person to be cleansed.
The New Moon is a birth. As the waxing phase journeys on, the Moon grows and matures until it reaches its ripest point, the Full Moon. A New Moon marks the start of a new lunar cycle, as well as the start of a new personal cycle. The New Moon will ignite the passion in our relationships and bring us closer to our families. Families are where we can feel love and learn how to love others. Life is tough, and we need people we can lean on. It is also a time for tenderness and fun with your family members.
The New Moon, just like the Full Moon, exerts a strong gravitational pull on the elements, including the human body. Researchers believe that sleeping troubles are intensified during the time of a New Moon. At the New and Full Moon, the pull they exert is at its strongest. This is because the Sun, the Moon and the Earth line up in a relatively straight line. The Sun’s gravitational pull adds to that of the Moon, giving us the highest and lowest tides.
The Chinese Zodiac, within the traditional Chinese calendar, celebrates this New Moon phase, or what they also call the Dark Moon, at the start of the calendar month. This New Moon phase lasts roughly for 29 plus days. The Chinese New Year is kick-started by the first New Moon of the year. During the Chinese New Year (which is also celebrated by many surrounding countries in Asia such as the Philippines, Thailand, and Malaysia), many traditional rituals and festivals are held where fireworks are lit. Many Buddhists abstain from eating meat, and elders and family members are celebrated, even those who have departed.
Many people participate in New Moon rituals where they may meditate on their personal desires, dreams and intentions. The energy of the New Moon helps people grow spiritually as they seek out the Moon’s healing energy. In this manner, the New Moon is rich with symbolism and it represents a time of great self-awareness where hopes and visions for the future can be manifested.
The New Moon is also known for having a more inward feel, and therefore can be unsettling to those not comfortable with uncertainty, or change. Be as mindful as possible to stay positive. Guard against all variety of negativity with your mighty will. Whatever energy you feed during the New Moon Phase will be stored in your vault, and be amplified later in the month. This can obviously be positive or negative. To get the best out of this, you want to think positive thoughts. A great help can be a “Moon Gathering” with others.
The belief in the power of a New Moon is so strong, it has people coming together for “Moon Gatherings,” where candles are lit, intentions are set, and a fresh start is summoned. Start by sitting down in a quiet space and writing out your Goals for the next 30 days. List the ways in which you are not only receiving support from others, but supporting others, too. This can be done alone, or with others. You should cleanse your home with sage to eliminate all negative energy, play meditation music, and light a scented candle. A new candle for the New Moon. Sit in a circle while writing down your thoughts, and if you are with others, have each one read their intentions out loud. It is a powerful time to send out your desires to the Universe.
This Full Moon in Aries brings new beginnings in terms of standing up for ourselves, becoming more independent and daring to take a risk. This is a potent Full Moon for the Warrior. The challenge of this Full Moon is to learn to extend a peace offering to someone close to you, to understand the rewards of balancing your wishes and desires with theirs, and if necessary, to let go of a relationship that doesn’t allow you both independence balanced with intimacy.
This Full Moon was known by early Native American tribes as the Full Hunter’s Moon because the leaves are falling and the game is fat and ready to hunt. Mother Earth has prevailed with the change of seasons to remind us to prepare ourselves for a dramatic shift in our lives while giving ourselves the much-needed time to get accustomed to the changes coming our way. Use the element of Fire under this transit to harness and manifest the luck that you need.
This Moon has also been known as the Travel Moon. It is called the Travel Moon as this Moon provides extra light after sunset for farmers to continue working on harvesting their crops. When harvesting is completed, farmers have the advantage of extra evening light to engage their wandering spirits. Use red candles and burn cinnamon, nutmeg or ginger as your incense during this Full Travel Moon.
The name “Blood Moon” is used for a Moon that appears reddish because of dust, smoke and haze in the sky. It is one of the Full Moons of autumn when the leaves are turning red. This is a time when you might be tempted to make the wrong decision under the influence of the Blood Moon and taking time out to stop and think is essential. Act wisely and don’t make any irrational decisions.
This October Full Moon is a subtle reminder to all of us that “With great power comes great responsibility.” It is essential that we not only act in a scenario that demands it but also take responsibility for that action. Aries brings fire and wind to new opportunities. That we have two opposite energies working in harmony under this Full Moon is no mistake!
The October Full Moon in Aries brings the energy needed to accomplish, as we are being asked to step up, take action, and start claiming back our lives. The last few months have been a season of resting, thinking, and deciding which elements of the past to let go of (see ya later, toxic relationships!). With that time to internalize behind us, the cosmos will now call on everyone to let their inner Fire signs show.
This Aries Full Moon tends to encourage impulsive, passionate behavior, which is exactly the kind you need in order to weather the emotions and fork-in-the-road moments that are coming our way courtesy of the lunar cycle. The secret to making good choices is to be conscious of the larger picture of what you want in your life. Certain decisions are more important than others. The problem is, we don’t know which ones are which. Every challenge that we encounter, we will come out the other side stronger, wiser and more experienced.
October 3 – Mercury enters Scorpio. Scorpio is very intense, secretive and instinctive, so when coupled with the planet of communication, this creates extremely profound and capable insight. This intensifies the ability to see human motivations more clearly. It is a time of suspicion and hidden motives as you will find others always wanting the upper hand in conversations. Strategies are strong. Communications are passionate and many times appear to be lecturing. When interacting with others, observe, as you will be given really good advice and help.
October 4 – Moon enters Capricorn. This is a time for focus. Our determination to reach our goals is very strong. The Moon in Capricorn is a good time to balance between home and career. It’s ensuring that life doesn’t get in the way of work and that work doesn’t stop you having a career. Working together with friends and family can be important to your success at home—or at work—and can even improve your health. People with stronger support systems have more aggressive immune responses to illnesses than those who lack such support.
October 8 – Draconids Meteor Shower. The Draconids is a minor meteor shower producing only about 10 meteors per hour, but reaches it peak tonight. It is produced by dust grains left behind by comet 21P Giacobini-Zinner, which was first discovered in 1900. Meteor showers are also known as shooting stars. Take a moment to wish on one of these shooting stars. That moment, that pause when you become present and you send out an intention into the Universe — that alone is sacred in its own way. Venus enters Scorpio today.
October 13 – Full Moon in Aries. This Full Moon brings new beginnings in terms of standing up for ourselves, becoming more independent and daring to take a risk. This Full Moon was known by early Native American tribes as the Full Hunters Moon because the leaves are falling and the game is fat and ready to hunt. This Moon has also been known as the Travel Moon and the Blood Moon. Called the Travel Moon as this Moon provides extra light after sunset for farmers to continue working on harvesting their crops. When harvesting is completed, farmers have the advantage of extra evening light to engage their wandering spirits. The name “Blood Moon” is used for a Moon that appears reddish because of dust, smoke and haze in the sky. It is one of the full moons of autumn when the leaves are turning red.
October 15 – Mercury in Scorpio trine Neptune in Pisces – Contact between these two planets does make it a good time to communicate with our Spirit Guides, Angels, or even loved ones who have crossed over to The Other Side. Pay attention to what happens in your dreams now. Dream time is where we are at our most relaxed, and as such, messages come through more readily when we sleep vs. during our waking hours. Your dreams will bring you clarity.
October 20 — Mercury at Greatest Eastern Elongation. Mercury will be at its highest point above the horizon in the evening sky. The energy of Mercury, at this time, has been known to bring quirks in your manner of speaking, such as being defensive, chatty, eloquent, emotional, etc. Since the mind can be its own house of mirrors, this also can show a mind drawn to illusions or to playing games with others.
October 21, 22 – Orionids Meteor Shower. The Orionids is an average shower producing up to 20 meteors per hour at its peak. It is produced by dust grains left behind by comet Halley, which has been known and observed since ancient times. The Second Quarter Moon will block some of the fainter meteors this year, but the Orionids tend to be fairly bright so observing its shooting stars could still be a good show. Best viewing will be from a dark location after midnight. Meteors will radiate from the constellation Orion, but can appear anywhere in the sky. Seeing a shooting star means that you will achieve your destiny.
October 23 – Sun enters Scorpio. The Sun entering this sign ruled by Pluto brings the best time for self-transformation. Pluto is known as the “Planet of Magic and Power.“ It is mainly the power to transform yourself, so that you become a person who can achieve your goals. It is a day to put you, first.
October 25 – Venus in Scorpio sextile Pluto in Capricorn. All the energies and results from what was started and set with intention, will be brought in full circle. You will not have to worry about financial issues because the stars are rightly aligned to bless you in this sector.
October 27 – Uranus at Opposition. The blue-green planet will be at its closest approach to Earth and its face will be fully illuminated by the Sun. It will be brighter than any other time of the year and will be visible all night long. This is the best time to view Uranus. Uranus helps us to detach from the ego and observe things from an objective perspective. This experience of detachment often leads us into new and unexpected directions. When we allow this process to occur naturally in our lives, it can actually bring liberation and freedom.
October 28 – New Moon in Scorpio. The Moon will be located on the same side of the Earth as the Sun and will not be visible in the night sky. Today, our desires can be very strong. Since there is likely quite a bit of energy present on this day, it’s best to find a way to bring calmness into your space, so that you can harness the energy to your benefit. Take a few cleansing breaths at a quiet time in the evening, sage your space, and chill. This is the time to write down and release what is getting in the way of the experiences that haven’t arrived yet. This will bring the perfect opportunity to create intentions and find peace in your own life.
October 30 – Mercury conjunct Venus in Scorpio. Much will be revealed but people will also go digging for a lot of garbage that doesn’t exist. There will be a fine line between getting to the truth and harassing someone. While in Scorpio, thoughts about relationships will be fixed and intensified. Scorpio needs to have power and this is achieved by getting to the bottom of things. Just make sure you don’t cross the line.
August is the eighth month of the year and the sixth month of the Roman calendar. The Romans called the month Sextilis, which means sixth. Eight years before Jesus was born, the name of the month was changed to Augustus, in honor of the Roman Emperor Augustus Caesar.
The spiritual meaning of August is about “Letting go of Judgments.” When you form judgments, you stop yourself from seeing things as they really are. When you judge others, you are often projecting your thoughts about reality onto them. Those thoughts may not describe them accurately at all. As you get beyond judgment and learn to see people through the eyes of compassion, you will feel an increasing oneness with them.
Illusions come when you look only at the surface of something and don’t go beyond appearances to examine what is inside. You can see the bigger picture of who people are by looking beyond the roles they play. As you do, you are going beyond outer appearances and seeing the reality of their higher selves.
Try to question what you are hearing and reading, don’t accept things just because others do. Follow your heart and believe in your truth, not what others or society tells you is best. As you discover what is true for you, you will assist others in finding a higher way by your example.
The Full Moon of August arrives in time with the start of the traditional harvest season, it’s spiritually associated with the dwindling down of summer and the approaching autumn. This Full Moon of August has a strong lunar pull, causing a great unbalance in your life. Let go of old pain, release what bogs you down, and open your mind to renewed flexibility and clarity.
August is known for many things, including the dog days of summer: International Beer Day (Aug. 2), National Watermelon Day (Aug. 3), National Smile Week (Aug. 5-11), Chinese Valentine’s Day (Aug. 7), Sneak Some Zucchini onto your Neighbor’s Porch Day (Aug. 8), National Lazy Day (Aug. 10), Left Hander’s Day (Aug. 13), National Relaxation Day (Aug. 15), National Tell a Joke Day (Aug. 16), National Eat a Potato Day (Aug. 19), Kiss and Make Up Day (Aug. 25), International Bacon Day (Aug. 31).
People born in August fall under the Sun Zodiac signs of Leo and Virgo. Leos are known to be dramatic, creative and outgoing. Virgos have acute attention to detail and are the people most likely to dedicate themselves to serving. They also are loyal, hardworking and analytical. August borns have difficulty in showing their pain. They are not really comfortable in sharing their struggles with others and keep their pain and suffering to themselves.
August’s month number is 8. In Numerology the sacred number eight is special because when you turn it on its side, it becomes infinity. In China, 8 is a lucky number because the word itself sounds like the Chinese term for prosper. Eight also represents peace and symmetry. August brings us improved decision making abilities, particularly on the 8th of the month.
The original birthstone for August was Sardonyx, and then Peridot was added, becoming August’s primary gemstone. Peridot’s signature green color comes from the composition of the mineral itself—rather than from trace impurities, as with many gemstones. That’s why this is one of few gemstones that only comes in one color, though shades may vary from yellowish-green to olive to brownish-green, depending how much iron is present. Peridot is a crystal of positive power, a talisman for recognizing and honoring the Creator’s frequency of Love, the source of all abundance. Used with right intent, it helps expand one’s ability to receive from the Universe on all levels of life.
Positive changes are coming. Change will offer you opportunities. It’s time to create a more fulfilling and authentic life. Now is the time to explore what it is that you really like and want. When you take the time to appreciate everything, you begin to see how many great things there are in your life. You will then realize that whatever is changing, it is only one small part of a wonderful life.
July will be great for your finances. Get your money in order now so you can enjoy the new income growth that will begin next month and continue through to October. In terms of energy levels and getting ahead, sharing what you have can lead others to do the same. You are charitable and kinder than usual for the sake of letting your expression be one of love.
Your relationships, romantic and otherwise, seem to happen suddenly. Most don’t last long, but what an adventure they are. It’s all about taking the simple everyday things you do with your friends that takes the relationship from being a good relationship to a great one. Life is meant to be fun – it’s meant to be an adventure.
July is a time for clarity. Your sleeping mind is psychically active, with colorful dreams and ideas that bubble up from the deeper levels of your psyche. These subconscious thoughts will provide you with an endless supply of answers and guidance. If you don’t understand their messages, you may create a block that could create health problems. Take some quiet time to meditate. It will bring you the clarity you seek.
July brings unexpected changes in your life. Some things are different than you expected them to be. Try to view this as a challenge and a chance to grow. Understand that change is an inevitable part of life. Enjoy the journey and appreciate that, every step of the way, you can be in a state of constant positive progress. You’re always developing into the person you’re meant to be. Embrace this change for it will turn out to be a positive one.
July is the perfect time to boost your mood. You may be getting tired of hearing everyone telling you that you need more exercise. Sure. Exercising is great for you physically. But, it’s also an excellent way to become more positive in life. Exercise can change the direction of most situations in your life. You don’t need to run marathons, just get more active. The benefits of exercise and moving around more, are immeasurable. You gain purpose, drive, but most of all it teaches you a discipline. When you boost your mood, wonderful things start to happen.
You have been taking on more responsibility than you can or should handle. Too much responsibility causes stress. Stress and emotions can often feel overwhelming. It’s time to find a healthy outlet to express yourself. Take a break from your worries by doing something you enjoy. Doing things you enjoy is a natural way to relieve stress and find your happy place. Whether it’s gardening or painting, schedule time to indulge your interest.
We love flitting from one thing to another in search of the ultimate. Outside circumstances tend to toss us a curve ball, so watch out for road blocks and don’t be too intense. Life isn’t always an either/or proposition. Slow down, think before you act and speak, and try to see the issue the way the other guy does. Don’t jump to conclusions.
August brings a deep need to establish roots and make our home comfortable, warm and a reflection of our own importance. Changes in residences in the past have given us good memories and strong feelings of security. It is also a month that brings ways to make money that are unusual. Some of these methods may be so far ahead of their time that they border on genius.
You have a strong love of music and a fondness for beautiful surroundings. You usually do everything in a big way and have an inclination for travel and adventure. You know where you want to go, but lack direction. Instead of spending time in chat rooms on the internet, plan that adventure for the near future. It will work for you.
Our core beliefs determine our reality. August brings optimism, even when faced with enormous challenges. Watch out for being too trusting of smooth talkers with devious plans. Yoga, meditation or an exercise program will help you overcome these issues.
It’s time to stop wasting a lot of energy fretting about small things in your life. You’re a psychic sponge who absorbs the emotions and attitudes of the people around you. A creative outlet for your emotional energy would be most beneficial. Take a walk to your local park or a nature preserve. Nature can often help us get outside of our minds and appreciate the world around us more.
Our ideas are original and ahead of our time. When we are positive and enthusiastic about a project, we have the ability to project this and excite others. We possess depth of vision, but the dreamer side of our nature is compassionate and idealistic. We will learn from yesterday, live for today, and hope for tomorrow.
September is a month to bring order out of confusion. If you aren’t where you want to be in life and you want to make a change, then the first step is really knowing that it’s never too late. Today is just as great of a day to start as any other
July 16, 2019 – “Full Buck Moon”
The Full Moon is the time to stay calm, let things go, breathe deeply through difficult moments and forgive others for their mistakes. Since you have the full moon power behind you, send healing energy, forgiveness, pink light and loving-kindness to friends, family, colleagues, and strangers.
