Well, I had every intention of “blogging” on a more regular basis, but here I am almost 7 months from my first entry! And yet, what I’ve come to learn about this life is that everything is just perfect, regardless of what my mind might be telling me – “You’re not keeping up with your blog the way you should be!”

My plan for this entry actually began unfolding during this past summer, but for some unknown reason, the entry just didn’t seem to be completing itself. This morning upon awakening, I finally became clear that the delay was due to something else – a different topic wanted to come into form! Soooo, my “summer entry” has been put on the back burner, and this one will have it’s time.

As far as content for this entry, I’m watching that shift and change as well. You’ll notice that the format for this entry is a bit different than the first one, but I’m doing my best to trust that too. Sometimes I forget that my job is simply to let what wants to come make its way through and onto the paper (or screen, as the case may be)!

Samhain – The Season of Death and Its Blessings

I live in an area of the Sierra Foothills that is shared by two sister towns, and like many siblings, they can be delightfully compatible teammates as well as cantankerous competitors. One thing they do share, however, is a great love for celebrating Halloween. During the daylight hours of this holiday, parents and their young children travel downtown to scamper from business to business collecting treats and showing off their specially chosen costumes for this year’s All Hallow’s Eve festivities. By nightfall, both towns are flocked by hundreds and hundreds of ghouls, fairies, witches and television characters all vying for entrance into the next fabulously decorated yard or coolest haunted house. It’s a sight to see and something that should not be missed whether you are a local or visitor here.

My first introduction to this area was nearly 25 years ago when my husband and I at the time joined a group of friends in attending a huge Halloween bash that continues to be a local tradition. Little did I know that I would come to deeply love this wonderful place, make it my home, raise a son among its towering pines and finally begin fulfilling work that I recognized was on my true path.

I continue to have a special affinity for Halloween, but over the years something has called me to a deeper appreciation of its history and symbolism. The ancient Celts referred to this time as Samhain (pronounced sow-in) meaning “summer’s end.” Mara Freeman in her book, “Kindling the Celtic Spirit,” tells us that in early Ireland, the Samhain Festival was considered the most important of all the four calendar festivals (the Festivals of Brigit, Beltaine and Lughnasadh remaining). Samhain marked a time that was productive and focused in the Celtic lands. The last of the harvest was gathered as well as peat for the fires that would give the local people warmth throughout the long winter. Great feasting and much drinking took place among the sacred fires that burned in honor of this special time of year. In contrast to the revelry of Beltaine, where the sun, fertility and love were celebrated, the potent rituals of Samhain ushered in the mysteries of the darkest part of the year. I’ve learned that my ancestors were a hardy and deeply spiritual people who didn’t seem to have much fear of the darkness within their world or within themselves, but instead considered it a powerful tool to cherish and use to its fullest. They looked upon this dark phase of the year as a necessary part of their harvest and life cycles, knowing that the remains of all that died became the rich and fertile soil used as the foundation of their next sacred planting. During the rituals of Samhain, the precious seeds that would germinate underground during the lightless months were blessed with vision and hope for the time of the sun’s return.

We too are offered the invitation to drop into our depths at this time. As the leaves drop and decay and our nights become shorter, the season beckons us to go within to find what is ready to be released. Personally, the last five years have brought an intense experience of transformation within my internal world, where layers and layers of what is no longer needed continue to be sloughed off. When October 31^st makes its way around each year, I take special notice when asking myself, “What else wants to die; what else needs to be let go of?” Oftentimes this has called for great courage in facing the Persephone-like journey into the darker mystery of the inner world, but the promise of rebirth continues to be my guiding light.

The Celts of old had a profound mystical heritage that was the foundation of their spiritual expression. At Samhain, they believed that the veils between the worlds became very thin and that the townspeople could communicate with loved ones who had passed over. As I sense into this time, these family members clearly assisted in many of the practical issues the community faced as the light dimmed for the next number of months. Although no longer in form, they were highly regarded as advisers, and their counsel on family issues, planting of the crops, and community topics was greatly valued. To honor the deceased and their contributions, many families set a place at their holiday table so loved ones could join in the seasonal festivities.

A dear friend of mine carries on a flavor of this tradition in her home each year. She gathers together her closest friends and commemorates those family members who have crossed over the veils. In her version of this ancient ritual, guests prepare and enjoy the favorite dishes of those who have passed on. I smile to myself when I imagine placing my mother’s favorite meal on our table. Chicken and dumplings would be washed down with a stiff scotch and soda, followed by See’s Butterscotch Squares or her favorite taffy cookies. Although my body would never tolerate a meal like this now (!), I am touched and deeply appreciative of the symbolism this ritual offers. Perhaps some day I will begin a form of this honoring in my home as well.

I love looking back along my lineage and remembering the old ways, recognizing how they can assist me in my day to day life. And I wonder, could this age-old creative calling offered during Samhain serve you in your life? At this time of reflection, are there aspects of yourself or how you may be living that are ready to be shed, clearing the ground for the planting of fertile ideas and dreams? I hope you will join me in taking the time to look within and release whatever may be revealed in preparation for something new to be reborn. This time of year offers great potential, and I envision all of us using it as fully as possible!

As I wrap up this entry, I plan to hold throughout this day a sacred space for your Samhain journey. And may these days of darkness assist you in weaving together a tapestry of your visions and dreams that will be celebrated with the sun’s return, should it be within your Divine Plan.

I wish you the Grace to allow what is, the Clarity to sense when to take action and the Wisdom to know the difference.

Happy Samhain!

Rhiannon

“On Death & Dying”

Steel yourself against this, and then let go…

One more time.

And the rains swell outside in this moment of darkness

Reminding me of what I love – the depths, the flow of Knowing, Truth – my heart.

What is this place?

Where the grave beckons so sweetly – no more trying, doing, planning.

Thinking I know.

Surrender.

At first I do not recognize this place of calm.

Still waters cradling me.

When the grip of  who I thought I was

Released.

Not an easy one, this death.

To have the courage to step into groundlessness that I fear I do not know…

To face what is no longer needed and the terror of saying goodbye.

Wondering if the cocoon really holds the butterfly.

Rhiannon 2010

April 1, 2010

I giggle to myself when I think about starting a new project on April 1st – Fool’s Day. What must I be thinking? But then I remember the symbol of the Fool in the Tarot. He is the first symbol in the Tarot deck, the number 0, and he ushers in the journey we take in this life. In the deck I’m most familiar with, Aleister Crowley’s Thoth Deck, the Fool looks straight ahead with a determined gaze, centered and self-assured. He holds this strong position even though there is a large tiger (the Oriental symbol for fear) gnawing at his leg. I have always been impressed with the power and strength that I’ve felt when viewing this card. Its message is one of courage and trust as the Fool is called to leap into the unknown. When I think of it, any part of my work, whether it be writing, doing readings or healing sessions, feels like a swan dive into the mystery.

I’ve been asked to begin writing for quite a while now, and the adventure to christening this Blog has been an interesting one. As many of you know, about 18 months ago I informed you that I was planning the production of a newsletter. Something else seemed to have a life of its own, though, and what was birthed was my first website. The Conscious Visions Blog will become my version of the newsletter I had initially envisioned.

I’ve hesitated trying to figure out what the Blog format will be simply because the whole point is to let the information move through the Divine, so it will continue to unfold organically as I am guided. So far, each entry will include a channeling on a current topic and a Comments section, where I will look forward to your thoughts and feedback. You will also have the ability to subscribe to the Conscious Visions Blog, free of charge. When you sign up, you will receive notification whenever a new entry is posted. Should you know anyone who might be interested in my new blog, please feel free to pass it on – http://blog.rhiannon-consciousvisions.com/ .

I hope you find benefit in the Conscious Visions Blog Channeling #1 ~

~ The Great Awakening ~
Forging the Path to Truth

Nearly two-thirds of the way through 2008, I began receiving visions of the theme for the upcoming year – 2009. It was clear that Truth would begin revealing itself in a monumental way. Last year we watched as a landslide of disturbing stories began breaking about well-known and often well-respected sports figures, government officials, movie stars and musicians. The lids had blown off the simmering pots of secrets that were hidden within their lives. In addition, the U.S. economic system, built on a deceptive house of cards, began severely wobbling. This unmasking has continued into 2010 as we watch more and more disclosures rocking our entire world, even literally through earthquakes. The trials of exposing darkness to the light are now operating in full force.

As many of you know, however, our outer lives are merely a reflection of our inner process, and this is what fascinates me the most in my work with clients. Although witnessing the dynamic movements of our world is interesting, what I find most intriguing at this time is the revolution that is taking place within each of us. Many people are speaking of having amazingly challenging times with no “rest for the weary.” Multitudes are suffering from addictions, relationship problems, physical, emotional and mental illnesses as well as a variety of personal losses. It’s as if the boil has finally been lanced and the infection is being drained away.

Mapping the Quest
So many people are asking, “What is happening?” Although the times can seem quite confusing and challenging, I will assure you that we are on the right track. As many of you know, the light has been increasing on our planet for some time now. Since the year 2000, it has become nearly impenetrable, and it is primarily the reason why the purging experience has seemed so relentless. Essentially, everything that has been hidden in the darkness of the unconscious is now making its way out into the light, and with it, the Truth of who and what we are is unveiling itself. We are beyond a doubt in the throes of one of the most (if not THE most) potent evolutionary leaps in the history of humankind.

I’ve spoken with plenty of you during our sessions about this time of renewal, focusing on how it will affect you individually. For most people, it is a purification of whatever has not been attended to in this lifetime, personally and oftentimes generationally. Scores of people are working through the unfinished business of a multitude of lifetimes as well. For some the karmic load is lighter than for others, but regardless, the path can be a trying one.

Transformation Travel Guide
Because this is new territory for a majority of people, I’m often asked how to survive, and preferably thrive during these tumultuous times. Here are some ideas on how to navigate the rocky passages.

Be truthful. Begin asking yourself, “What is true for me right now?” How do you feel in your heart and in your body? Throughout the day, take time regularly to inquire within yourself, and especially when the “going gets tough.” The answers will be revealed to you in quiet moments of stillness. When your internal wisdom is speaking, you will feel an inner solidness and grounded knowing that comes from the center of your being. In contrast, information directed by the agenda of the ego oftentimes feels forceful and defensive, that when looked at deeper has an intrinsic sense of doubt and confusion at its core.

Try this “truthfulness experiment” – In the US, we are trained from an early age to “put on a smiling face” regardless of the situation. Stop smiling if you don’t feel like doing so! Be honest with people about how you are feeling. Chances are, they are busy pretending too. You will be an inspiration for them to be more real throughout their daily life.

Act. When you become clear about something, take action, if action is called for. Now, this doesn’t mean indiscriminately or aggressively wreaking havoc in your life. If a truth has shown itself to you, spend time in contemplation or with the counsel of someone you trust. Begin identifying where changes need to be made in order to come into integrity with what you now know to be true for yourself. When you feel ready to do so, take baby steps.

Acknowledge your fear. I’ve chosen to write specifically about fear because this emotion is our biggest bugaboo. Fear has most of us by the throats even when we don’t even realize it. For many people, a majority of their daily actions originate from a place of fear. Bringing consciousness to your fearful feelings is deeply healing and transformative.  Consider scanning your body for tension periodically throughout the day. The body is a wonderful communication tool. If you find a tense area, take a quiet moment, put your full attention on that area and ask yourself, “What am I afraid of?” Do your best to stay out of your mind and keep focused in the body and listen… What wants to be seen? Can you identify what might be needed from this fearful part of you? If so, begin addressing this need as promptly as possible.

Attend to your feelings. In our culture, we are trained to avoid feelings. Depression, alcohol and drug addiction, obesity, illness and apathy can often be the result of this conditioning. I strongly encourage you to allow what wants to be looked at within you. Meet the feelings that want to arise. If this prospect is overwhelming to you, reach out for support from a trusted confidant who has the wisdom to hold an honoring space for your process. Do not hesitate to seek professional help.

Watch your mind. Cultivate the ability to observe your mind and begin examining the stories it creates. Ask yourself on a regular basis whether there is any truthfulness to what the mind is dreaming up at the time. The more you question the mind, the more you will find that its tales have very little to do with reality. You can develop your own inquiry practice or find one that fits your personal needs. Byron Katie’s “The Work” offers a simple, fool-proof practice that has transformed many lives. Visit www.thework.com for details.

Accept what is. As you know, “what we resist, persists,” but for many the idea of surrendering to what is currently taking place in their lives can be likened to climbing Mount Everest. I will assure you, though, beginning this path to acceptance is an invitation to peacefulness and freedom throughout these troubled times. A variety of wonderful resources are available for support in learning to be more allowing . Here are just a few – “Loving What Is,” by Byron Katie, “When Things Fall Apart,” “The Wisdom of No Escape,” and “Start Where You Are,” by Pema Chodrin, “The Power of Now,” by Eckhart Tolle, as well as the works of  many spiritual teachers including Adyashanti and Gangaji.

Get support. The practice of consciously looking at ourselves and our lives can be a wonderful metamorphosis, and it can also be a demanding one. Reach out for help from friends, family and healing practitioners when needed.

Have faith. The ability to access your spiritual resources is at a peak right now. When  necessary call in assistance and guidance from your personal guides, the angelic realm, the Ascended Masters as well as any other Light beings you are drawn to. Trust that you are being held.

Take time to be in silence. So sorry, but this means no music, cell phones, iPods, television or any other forms of diversion. Frequently, these are used to escape and numb ourselves from what wants to be seen within us. A silent walk in nature is fine, but I would highly recommend, when you are really ready to listen to your True inner voice, you begin in a place where there are no distractions. By the way, it is completely natural for many of you to want to avoid the idea of being in silence like the plague! Once again, proceed at your own pace.

Drink water.
This transformative process is a work-out for the body. Lack of attention to a healthy diet and excellent hydration can result in illness and exhaustion. Keeping your water intake up will assist the body in gently integrating the dramatic changes that are taking place. If you have trouble remembering to drink water, consider setting a timer to remind you on the hour to drink a cup. You will experience considerable improvement in your ability to handle stress, ward off illness and even sleep better at night. Your skin will look much healthier as well!

Slow down. “Busy-ness” is another way to run from what is calling to be heard – your inner wisdom. In our culture, “busy-ness” is a form of addiction much like the behavior pattern of a workaholic. When you begin unraveling what is really true for yourself, you will find that those things that need to be done will reveal themselves in the present moment, and that ample time will be available for what really needs to get done. Tasks that are unnecessary will begin falling away. Perhaps you may learn that you require more sleep or need to do yoga every day to maintain health and vitality. I propose you begin listening to this guidance and watch how almost magically you will begin to see your life transform. Remember, the energy on the planet at this time is aligned to support you in living what is most truthful for you. Trust that you will be given the resources for these life changes to occur.

Join a “pack.” If you’ve always been a lone wolf, consider joining a group of like-minded, like-hearted people. Community is a gift that is being offered to all right now. Choose to use it as a form of support, companionship, creative inspiration and a container to be held by during the rough spots in the road.

Have fun. What brings you the most joy? Please don’t be surprised if you simply do not know. Take some time to contemplate what calls to you from your heart. Do you love to paint, sing, ride horses, or read inspirational books? Promise yourself involvement in something joy-filled each day. If you need to, place a bright sticky note in your planner (or highlight a note in your Blackberry!) to remind you each morning to “schedule” your joy.

* Remember – “Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass… it’s about learning to dance in the rain.” (A friend shared this quote with me but unfortunately not the author. Does anyone recognize it? Please let me know if you do – I’d love to give them credit for this delightful piece of inspiration.)

We are in the midst of The Great Awakening. This metamorphosis will change the nature of reality and our experience of this world beyond anything the mind can even begin to conjure. Although traversing the path seems questionable at times, I encourage you to trust that All is Truly Well. There are no victims, although occasionally it may feel differently. Humanity’s collective scripts were written with this agenda in mind, so continue to remember that you chose to be a part of this evolutionary shift. Be proactive about gathering resources and developing healthy patterns that support you throughout these powerful yet demanding passages. Be curious, humble, accountable and responsible for your karmic journey. When possible, celebrate the Divine Being you are, those who join you on this venture, and the multitude of blessings and beauty that are available to you during this wondrous time.

A client gave me this lovely poem a number of years ago. I hope you will enjoy it…

RESIST  NOTHING

Resist nothing
not even your resistance

Cling to nothing
not even this

Embrace everything
that is before you
now

And watch

If out of the seeds of illusion
sprout the forms of concepts…thoughts…words
to mask this present moment
and give more form to the illusion

easy…hard
more…less
good…bad
right…wrong
yes…no

even
life…death

even
you…me

Watch

And resist nothing
not even your resistance

Cling to nothing
not even this

Embrace everything
that is before you
now

And look
to that which is beyond
nothing and everything
now

Copyright 2003 Bill Drake
Reprinted by permission

I wish you the Grace to allow what is, the Clarity to sense when to take action, and the Wisdom to know the difference.

Love & Light ~
Rhiannon