Ritual 43: Monday, October 22, 2007

Waxing Moon

Tomorrow, the sun enters Scorpio, the Western zodiac's sign of deep mystery, magnetic allure and profound transformation. As you cross this threshold, you may feel yourself called by the magnetic pull of your own transformation. Use the brightness of the waxing moon to scry into the depths your psyche: What is changing in your life? How are you responding to it?

Resistance is a natural response to change. We cling to the old, even as we call forth the new. We dip our toes into the waters, and pull back from the cold. We take a leap of faith, and then panic when we realize that, Holy Moly, we just jumped off a cliff.

Tonight, use your magic to wholeheartedly embrace any transformations you have undertaken. In the spirit of the deepening seasonal darkness and the imminent dreaming time that it brings, make your ritual space in the cradle of slumber: your bed.

With tonight's magic, let's create a new spiritual aphorism together: Change your sheets; change your life.

Pull out a fresh set of bedclothes. If the temperature warrants, include your extra blanket or down comforter, or make the shift from cotton sheets to flannel.

Since we're in the moon's waxing cycle and we're working with changes that are already underway, we will focus not on what is being released in the cycle of change, but on embracing the change itself.

With your dominant hand, draw a circle around your bed. This marks the space of your magic making. Say aloud:

As I change these sheets, I affirm my willingness to embrace my new situation. [Describe the situation.] As I settle into the new circumstances of my inner and outer life, I invite peace and comfort as my companions.

Now, remove the old sheets and make your bed with your fresh flannels or cozy comforter. As you work, repeat the chant: "I accept the changes I have made."

There is a saying: You've made your bed now lie in it. It's usually meant as a somewhat judgmental exhortation to accept responsibility for your actions. I offer it to you now without the judgment. Accept the outcome of what you've set into motion. Enjoy lying in your comfortable, clean, fresh bed.

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