Ritual 29: Monday, July 16, 2007

Waxing Moon

Summertime sees the most lightning activity in the U.S. In fact, July has the dramatic distinction of being the month that witnesses the greatest amount of lightening-induced damage -- to property and people.

Lightning, from a mythic perspective, represents the shock of sudden insight. The furiously speedy lightening bolt can incite a brilliant artistic inspiration, a much-needed wake-up call, or a devastating realization.

Once lightning strikes an object -- or your consciousness -- it imparts a fiery energy that swiftly seeks its way to the ground. Lightning rods were conceived as protective means for grounding this intense energy. Tonight, let's pay respect to this force of nature and its archetypal implications by crafting a symbolic lightning rod that will give any sudden insights a way to ground their impact without causing you trauma. Think of this talisman as a psychic shock-absorber.

Tear off a sheet of kitchen foil and pull out a sheet of paper. Ground yourself by imagining a cord connects the base of your spine with the center of the earth.

Now write on the paper the following incantation. Experienced magic-makers may want to make up their own.

When Spirit sends down with mighty insistence
A sacred message for me
I choose to ground, surrender resistance
And listen to what it could be
No need to hide, I take it in stride
Expanding my awareness.

Roll the paper up in the foil, then fold the foil into a pocket-sized lightening rod. Now ground your new talisman just like you grounded yourself, by imagining a cord connects it to the center of the earth.

Carry your lightening rod with you, especially on occasions when you anticipate big news -- good or bad -- or if you've been praying for guidance.

After the ritual, share your experience in our community section.