Archive | January 2018

The Legend of the Sacred King

Father Sun and Mother Earth

A Celtic Tale of Sacrifice and the Blood Moon

In ancient history, many cultures hold tales concerning a Sacred King. Back then a King was a form of deity, or was placed on a throne by Divine hands. As such they were worshiped as much as they were revered and honored. The Sacred King we’re going to talk about comes from the early pagan days of the Celts.

In this tale, the Sacred King is associated with the Sun, and in some variations with the Sun God Lugh who is honored during the 1st Harvest Festival known as Lughnasadh, celebrated on August 1st in Northern Hemisphere.  Elements of this story are scattered through pagan festivals throughout the year, and have been passed on through the generations of practitioners primarily through oral tales. Even today, most Pagans celebrate these events in our modern festivals and rituals, but often as separate events instead of one long story arc. 

In his writings, Sir James George Frazer describes in a book called The Golden Bough (1890–1915); the sacred king represented the spirit of vegetation. He came into being in the spring, reigned during the summer, and ritually died at harvest time, only to be reborn at the winter solstice to wax and rule again. 

Elements of Frazer’s book, document Pagan tales celebrated throughout the cycle of the year in one story. There are elements of the Holy and Oak King, who share governance of the seasons as they wax and wane between summer and winter. There’s the association of the fertile spring equinox when the Great God and Maiden Goddess unite and reign through the summer. And the outcome of that union in the fall, which provides for an abundant harvest season. Continue reading

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Today’s Tarot Meditation Drawing: The Devil – Inverted

The Devil - Inverted

Mystic Faery Tarot by Linda Ravenscroft

Bad influences are trying to hold on for dear life. Sometimes you just have to turn your back on the old, and say good-bye. You’ve overcome so much, don’t give into temptation now. The easy road might bring success for a short time. But in the long run, you’ll pay a hefty price for compromising your values and integrity.


Additional Insight:

Someone is trying to pressure you into doing something you know you shouldn’t do. Contemplate the cost of their offer. Make sure you’re willing to give up the things you’ll be forced to let-go of if you give in now. The odds are not in your favor to escape scott free. And you won’t be able to claim “the Devil made me do it”. The result of your decision could destroy everything you hold dear.

Letting go of things that aren’t good for you isn’t easy. Especially if it’s something or someone you love. But you can’t save others from their bad choices and you can’t learn the lessons for them. If they won’t recognize the consequences of their own actions. To save yourself, you may have to walk away and focus on you and yours.

The anger they will feel is theirs to bear. You have no reason to feel guilty or ashamed for doing the right thing. You put in the effort to help, over and over again. Or you’ve made it clear many times that you’re engaging in their behavior. But they keep dragging you down to their level. If you want things to be different, you’re going to have to make the hard choice and accept that changes are needed to get out from under this cloud of negativity. Do it for yourself. Because you do deserve better.

Additional Reading

As I was reading today’s card, I had an overwhelming feeling this message is for those dealing with the opioid crisis. That may not be the message for you. But for those who might fall into this situation, maybe someone who is addicted, someone struggling to get clean or those watching a love one suffer from the yo-yo effects of their addiction. If that scenario fits you or your life,  you don’t have to go it alone.

  • SAMHSA’s National Helpline  1-800-662-HELP (4357),
    Also known as the Treatment Referral Routing Service, this helpline is a confidential, free, 24-hour-a-day, 365-day-a-year, information service, in English and Spanish, for individuals and family members facing mental and/or substance use disorders. This service provides referrals to local treatment facilities, support groups, and community-based organizations. Callers can also order free publications and other information.

Read More
About The Tarot, history, perspectives, how to read the cards  and more.

We use the Mystic Faery Tarot by Linda Ravenscroft, the Gilded Tarot by Ciro Marchetti and the Steampunk Tarot by Aly Fell for our daily drawings. You can learn more about these beautiful decks on Amazon.com. Read more about the Tarot and our Tarot Meditation insights.


© Springwolfs HankoSpringwolf Reflections 2018 Motto:
I live in peace, harmony and acceptance in all areas of my life. I am safe and filled with joy.

© 2018 Springwolf, D.D., Ph.D. Springwolf Reflections / Springs Haven, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

Today’s Tarot Meditation Drawing: Knave of Pentacles

Mystic Faery Tarot by Linda Ravenscroft

It’s ok to have your cake and eat it too. You’ve worked hard to climb out of a bad situation. And you’re not in the same situation you used to be in. So stop looking at things around you today, in the same way you used to. Things have changed for the better and you need to change your perspectives along with them.


Additional Insight:

You’re not the naive person you once were. You’ve gone through trials and traumas that have educated your sensibilities and brought wisdom to your path forward. You know which mistakes not to make again and you know what behaviors work against your best interests. Knowing all that, you need to change your perspective about how you’re handling your choices and finances today.

Someone wants you to come and play like you used to. Don’t allow them to guilt you into the simple pleasures without care or concern. If this person can’t appreciate what you’ve been through, then they may not be the best person for you to be around just now. They’re an anchor of the past that you may need to let go of, so that you can continue moving forward. If they truly care about you and your well-being, they would understand your reluctance to indulge in their childish whims at your expense.

Stick to your plans and budget. No, it’s not as fun and it makes you seem like a “party-pooper” to your old crowd. So what. You have a goal to achieve. You have a future you’re planning for, that is within your grasp. The changes you’ve made have not been easy, but you’ve made them none the less. Don’t throw that all away for one afternoon of throwing caution to the wind. It’s not worth it!

This evening will come in its usual pace and you’ll be able to see the bullet you dodged earlier in the day. Be proud of yourself for resisting the urge. Be thankful that you weren’t caught up in the aftermath that some of your friends face now. The results might be enough to finally push them to rock bottom and cause them to finally make some necessary changes in their lives. If not, be aware of the pleas for help. It’s not your place to dig them out of the hole they got into. Sometimes the best thing you can do for a friend, is say No. And walk away. 

Additional Reading

Read More
About The Tarot, history, perspectives, how to read the cards  and more.

We use the Mystic Faery Tarot by Linda Ravenscroft, the Gilded Tarot by Ciro Marchetti and the Steampunk Tarot by Aly Fell for our daily drawings. You can learn more about these beautiful decks on Amazon.com. Read more about the Tarot and our Tarot Meditation insights.


© Springwolfs HankoSpringwolf Reflections 2018 Motto:
I live in peace, harmony and acceptance in all areas of my life. I am safe and filled with joy.

© 2018 Springwolf, D.D., Ph.D. Springwolf Reflections / Springs Haven, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

Stop Mixing Mysticism with Science!

Merlin's Blood Moon by Springwolf 🐾

Merlin’s Blood Moon by Springwolf 🐾

NO, IT IS NOT A FULL BLUE BLOOD MOON!

I wish these mainstream media people would stop mixing mysticism with science. If you’re going to mix spiritual mysticism with scientific explanation, you should at least get the mysticism part right.

Early Pagans coined the phrase “Blood Moon” to signify the full moon phases of the Fall Harvest. Every full moon during the harvest season was once known as the Blood Moon and it has nothing to do with the color of the Moon.

Over time, that monthly harvest celebration evolved to become the Full Moon nearest the Autumn Equinox or the first full moon of the autumn harvest, also known as the Harvest Moon. For most Pagans, that Full Harvest Moon occurs in September or October, if you’re in the Northern Hemisphere. Continue reading

Today’s Tarot Meditation Drawing: Ace of Wands – Inverted

Ace of Wands - Inverted

Mystic Faery Tarot by Linda Ravenscroft

Let the fire that burns deep inside rise up to fuel your ambition for today. Don’t be a mushroom hiding in the dark where no one can see you. You’re intelligent, knowledgeable and experienced. Time to spread your wings and show everyone what you can do.


Additional Insight:

Built up explosions only create chaos and will get you no where. But controlled explosions of energy, begin the process of building something quite amazing. There’s a nay-sayer out there around you today who wants things to not only remain the same, but to go back to the way it used to be. The problem with that attitude is that it destroys the future and no longer works in the world today. But fear is driving their push to tap down the alternatives that will make everything a greater success and more abundant solution for everyone.

It’s been said before on this blog, the only constant in the Universe is change. And Change is inevitable. Either move with the times, work smarter, not harder, or get out of the way not only seems to be the focus, but it’s a heavy roller that will move forward. You might as well try to hold back the tides of the ocean. Change and advancement is not going to stop.

Those around you this week, seem to be fighting hard to hold onto the world they know. They resist change and are reluctant to move into the future, much less in the here and now. While you’re at odds with that view, you still have something to offer that might help those with fear and anxiety. Innovation, imagination and the perspective that it’s not always bad to tear something down from the past. Especially if it’s not working today. Letting go of the old can make way for something that brings light and excitement to your common goal, success!

It’s not a time to stick your head in the sand and pretend the misinformation and false conspiracies aren’t having an impact. While they are mainly distractions, there is a motive behind them. Someone on the outer edges is trying to make a play for power and not for the good of all concerned. Even those sticking to the old ways will be hurt and possibly destroyed in the process. Watch out for those trying to undermine the success in the things around you. Relationships, family dynamics, work and even the social environment you’re involved in. A grab for power and destruction will not last long term. It’s a losing proposition. But one that will create a great deal of strife for those not part of the inner circle.

In some situations, the fight may be tilted on their side. Allow yourself to see the writing on the wall and get out before you’re caught up in something you can’t get out of. As much as your perspective will lead to success for everyone, you can’t force others to change when they refuse to do so. They’re not interested in fairness or justice, only their own self-interests It might be time for some, to let go, move on and watch the fall from the outside. You’ve struggled enough. There’s no reason to go through that anxiety again. 

Additional Reading

Read More
About The Tarot, history, perspectives, how to read the cards  and more.

We use the Mystic Faery Tarot by Linda Ravenscroft, the Gilded Tarot by Ciro Marchetti and the Steampunk Tarot by Aly Fell for our daily drawings. You can learn more about these beautiful decks on Amazon.com. Read more about the Tarot and our Tarot Meditation insights.


© Springwolfs HankoSpringwolf Reflections 2018 Motto:
I live in peace, harmony and acceptance in all areas of my life. I am safe and filled with joy.

© 2018 Springwolf, D.D., Ph.D. Springwolf Reflections / Springs Haven, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

Today’s Tarot Meditation Drawing: Ten of Pentacles – Inverted

Ten of Pentacles - Inverted

Mystic Faery Tarot by Linda Ravenscroft

Don’t work against your own self-interests today. You need to investigate what you’re being told and don’t take the story on face value. No one can manage by rumor and succeed. If you’re so easily riled up, then maybe there’s something else going on within yourself. Stop, look in a mirror and be honest with yourself. Put the emotion aside and investigate the  truth to avoid the self-destruction.


Additional Insight:

It’s easy to get upset over half-truths or misleading information. You really need to make sure that what you’re being told is the whole story and not some attempt to sugar coat the facts and divert attention. Someone around you is trying to save face and prove their version of what’s going on is the real story. The problem is, what you’re being told isn’t accurate and probably isn’t true in any shape of the imagination. Don’t be suckered into their ignorance.

You may have gotten through a battle this week, but the skirmish isn’t over. Not for those who lost. And they’re trying to save face in the aftermath to regain favor. To do that, they need to twist information, blame others and in general con their way back into the good graces of those who steer the ship. The worst thing you can do right now, is buy into their manipulation and propaganda. What seems to be an effort to apologize or reconcile, is just a cover. Don’t buy into it! Continue reading

Today’s Tarot Meditation Drawing: Seven of Wands

7 of Wands

Mystic Faery Tarot by Linda Ravenscroft

You have to work together to get the project done. Enough of the in-fighting and back-stabbing that only spins the wheels in the mud. Whither you like it or not, you succeed together or you go down in flames together. There’s not going to be an in-between.


Additional Insight:

Someone needs to take control and make a plan. That doesn’t mean it’s their plan and everyone has to follow their lead. Everyone has an idea for how to handle the situation. And it’s going to take every suggestion to make the best path toward to success. This isn’t a dictatorship and the “Boss” doesn’t have all the answers. But some might need to be reminded that there are other considerations involved, than just their own.

Don’t be afraid to speak up and play devils advocate. But if you do, make sure you have a solution to plugging the holes you expose. Your best advice is in keeping everyone calm and reminding the team that disagreements aren’t personal. Everyone may be passionate about the topic on the table. Don’t turn that passion into anger when there is none. This is business and everyone’s idea has value. Your solution may only go half the distance, while someone else’s idea can complete your vision and make everything work for everyone. Continue reading

Today’s Tarot Meditation Drawing: Four of Swords

Four of Swords

Mystic Faery Tarot by Linda Ravenscroft

It’s easy to be exhausted after all the fighting you seem to be doing lately. Try to take it easy today. You have a lot of love on your side and someone whose arms you can rest in. If you need a hug, ask for one. Don’t expect others to simply know you need it. They’ll be happy to give it to you.


Additional Insight:

For some, the battles may not be over. For others things have finally come to an end. In either case, you need to take care of yourself with some tender loving healing. Whither it’s a nap, a few moments to sit and stare at the trees or a nice long bath. Whatever it is, take the time to indulge yourself sometime today.

The weeds that remain, can wait for a day. It’s hard to tear them down and think of a solution when you’ve been drained emotionally and physically. Let them sit, it will be ok. But if you can’t relax because of those remaining issues, talk to someone who you have great trust in. Ask them to stand guard for you. Even if it’s just for a few hours to close your eyes. Continue reading

Today’s Tarot Meditation Drawing: Knight of Cups

Knight Of Cups

Mystic Faery Tarot by Linda Ravenscroft

Be vigilant today and keep an eye on your domain. Someone is trying to encroach on your territory and take over your command. Don’t fall into their trap and start a fight with them. Everyone has a boss and to be a good leader, you must follow the chain of command. The Rules of Engagement are there to protect you, as much as to protect the entire kingdom. Your focus on the greater good, will serve your cause much more than picking a petty fight with a wanna be General.


Additional Insight:

Don’t sit back and just take it. If you’re fuming, you’re allowing a situation to fester that will either destroy you or push you out. Be the fair and balanced leader that remains calm and uses your resources wisely. The over reach by others will be seen as a doubling of effort and expense that will cost everyone more than it should. But you  will need to raise the alarm  with those in charge with a clear and thought out reasoning. Continue reading

Today’s Tarot Meditation Drawing: Knight of Wands

Knight Of Wands

Mystic Faery Tarot by Linda Ravenscroft

Don’t be afraid to spread your wings today. It’s going to be a good and successful day. Let your light shine to brighten up those around you. They’ve been feeling very down and in the dark. Let your confidence fill your ambition and pay attention to the details that others often miss. Your self-sufficient diligence will win friends and impress superiors.


Additional Insight:

You maybe traveling on business today, either personal or professional. Spread your wings wide and know you’re being sent to the place you’re needed most. Those who cross your path, need something from you. Not money or financial burdens, but information and insight. You’ll be able to fill a void or resolve a dilemma that has been a long-standing issue.

Don’t rush through the day, there is something in it for you as well. Pay attention to what or who is around you. A knight of the realm isn’t just a fighter or protector, but also gathers information needed back home. So stay alert and listen, more than you talk. For some that might be a challenge, but it’s essential for your mission. Continue reading