~~~~~~~~~Astrology~~~~~~~~~
Published in 1983, A Spiritual Approach to
Astrology was my constant companion while learning the art of Astrology. At that time I was exploring the Karmic
aspects of relationships and my own life's journey. I found Ms Loftus' sensitivity and focus in this regard
very helpful in the clear interpretation of charts. With the help of the proper ephemerides, time and asteroid
tables I know that if I get stuck on the subleties of a certain aspect, I need only refer to this book for guidance.
A most competent work.
I believe I'd purchased this book about ten years after
the first printing. The notion of a 'Native American astrology' was new and not without controversy, yet Wabun
and Sun Bear managed to devise a system with cohesion and spiritual sensitivity. I've found it helpful for illuminating
some of the dark corners of Euro-centric tropical and sidereal astrology. Anyone who works with leyline energy,
who is lunar-centric, or interested in animal totems will feel a resonance with this method.
~~~~~Familiars/Totem Animals~~~~~
Animal Speak and Medicine Cards together
provide a good foundation for the oracular interpretation of animal presence. Medicine Cards also
contributes an interesting method for determining one's own totemic companions. Dancing Otters and Clever Coyotes
is the newest rendition of Animal Energies--which I use as a light weight 'field guide'. This new title/edition
is much larger and apparently more in depth.
~~~~~~Stone Casting~~~~~~
Get ready folks, I am about to become adamant here.
Dreamstones: Magic From The Living Earth is one of my most precious finds. So much more than just
a how-to for stone casting, herein is scribed impeccable methodology and core teachings in several divinatory arts
(Astrology, Crystal Majick, Arithromancy, and Dream Walking, just to name a few) and groundwork information on several archetypal
gods and goddesses from a variety of celtic cultures. Ms. Loader has built, in my opinion, the most remarkable
guide for an undeservedly under-appreciated oracle. I am frankly dismayed to see so few copies available--but my Dears,
do not delay in aquiring a copy for yourself--at these shamefully low prices, only a true fool would let it pass!
To Ms. Loader: Please consider publishing
a new edition!
~~~~~~~~~Tarot~~~~~~~~~
The Rider-Waite deck (illustrated by Pamela
Coleman Smith) is probably the most familiar tarot anywhere, yet the text of Aurthur Edward Waite's guide to the
use of the deck is nearly the most difficult one to use for modern practitioners. Waite's writing voice reflects
his own time as well as the need to keep secret much information. I list it here for it's historical significance
and to give the respect due to a Key which helped keep the art of divination alive.
These two books came into my life at about the same
time. I'd graduated from my first deck, Palandini's 'Aquarian', and was learning the 'Amazon'
deck. Both Everyday Tarot (Choice Centered Tarot, as it was originally titled) and A Feminist Tarot,
became my core references for a number of years. Gail Fairfield offers a wholistic way to approach reading cards
which encompasses the intuitive as well as solid knowledge of numerology, astrology, and symbolism, sans hyperbole.
Notice the art on the cover of A Feminist Tarot? Gearhart and Rennie give modern
interpretations alongside the traditional, hence the references to Rider-Waite throughout.
Note** The Amazon Tarot is a powerful deck designed
by a group of women artists which included Billi Potts and Susun Weed. Published in 1980 by Elf & Dragon
Press, it is no longer in print, though you can view some of the art at the Mystic Eye. 'Amazon' is my most used, most cherished deck.
