#so certain popular aspects of the belief
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ima put this under a cut but i wanted to put it to metaphorical paper where i knew id come n revisit it
thoughts on my christian upbringing and how the idea trans/gay ppl were a sin just. never made sense to me as a kid
when i was younger, i really never got the idea that gay/trans ppl were some affront to god bc i thought that surely we are all the way we are bc god made us that way (and we all know god doesn't make mistakes)
now that im older, i realize the part that christians don't say: the implication that if you are gay or trans, you are choosing to be that way, rather than naturally being that way
anyway, i never considered the former point, and thought there was two implications: either you were saying god makes mistakes (which we already clarified doesn't happen) or that someone else (most likely satan) was making ppl that way in a literal sense
this also didn't make sense to little me! bc i thought this meant he was able to change ppl in a very literal sense which honestly felt a little outside the scope of what the devil could do and a little too close to literal actual god powers (and considering there was only one god, he couldn't do that)
it didn't really help that none of this actually came up in the church i went to or what my mom told me other than the very abstract 'love the sinner, hate the sin'
since no one ever gave me a concrete answer as to WHY it was a sin, like the overly logical kid i was, i just kinda. discarded it and decided the idea wasn't really that important
#christianity#transphobia#homophobia#gotta cover my bases#now that i commit this to words#this is probably another reason i aint beating the autism allegations lmao#the additional context is my household wasn't ever super christian and that my mom rly didn't like the judgemental christians#so certain popular aspects of the belief#just never were taught to me#oh yea i guess#just wildcat things
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Post-postmodernism in Pop Culture: Homestuck’s Revenge
I recently saw an excellent video essay titled Why Do Movies Feel So Different Now? by Thomas Flight. Though the title is opaque clickbait, the video is actually about major artistic zeitgeists, or movements, in film history. Flight describes three major movements:
Modernism, encompassing much of classic cinema, in which an earnest belief in universal truths led to straightforward narratives that unironically supported certain values (rationalism, civic duty, democracy, etc.)
Postmodernism, in which disillusionment with the values of modernism led to films that played with cinematic structure, metafiction, and the core language of film, often with more unclear narratives that lacked straightforward resolutions, and that were skeptical or even suspicious of the idea of universal truth
Metamodernism, the current artistic zeitgeist, which takes the structural and metafictional innovations of postmodernism but uses them not to reject meaning, but point to some new kind of meaning or sincerity.
Flight associates metamodernism with the “multiverse” narratives that are popular in contemporary film, both in blockbuster superhero films and Oscar darlings like Everything Everywhere All at Once. He argues that the multiverse conceptually represents a fragmented, metafictional lack of universal truth, but that lack of truth is then subverted with a narrative that ultimately reaffirms universal truth. In short, rather than rejecting postmodernism entirely, metamodernism takes the fragmented rubble of its technique and themes and builds something new out of that fragmentation.
Longtime readers of this blog may find some of these concepts familiar. Indeed, I was talking about them many years ago in my Hymnstoke posts, even using the terms “modernism” and “postmodernism,” though what Flight calls metamodernism I tended to call “post-postmodernism” (another term used for it is New Sincerity). Years before EEAAO, years before Spider-verse, years before the current zeitgeist in pop cultural film and television, there was an avant garde work pioneering all the techniques and themes of metamodernism. A work that took the structural techniques of postmodernism--the ironic detachment, the temporal desynchronization, the metafiction--and used them not to posit a fundamental lack of universal truth but rather imbue a chaotic, maximalist world of cultural detritus with new meaning, new truth, new sincerity. That work was:
Homestuck.
That’s right! Everyone’s favorite web comic. Of course, I’m not the first person to realize the thematic and structural similarities between Homestuck and the current popular trend in film. Just take a look at this tweet someone made yesterday:
This tweet did some numbers.
As you might expect if you’re at all aware of the current cultural feeling toward Homestuck, many of the replies and quotes are incredibly vitriolic over this comparison. Here’s one of my favorites:
It’s actually quite striking how many elements of the new Spider-verse are similar to Homestuck; aspects of doomed timelines, a multiversal network that seems to demand certain structure, and even “mandatory death of parental figure as an impetus for mandated personal growth” are repeated across both works. The recycling and revitalization of ancient, seemingly useless cultural artifacts (in Homestuck’s case, films like Con Air; in Spider-verse, irrelevant gimmick Spider-men from spinoffs past) are also common thematic threads.
As this new post-postmodern or metamodern trend becomes increasingly mainstream, and as time heals all and allows people to look back at Homestuck with more objectivity, I believe there will one day be a rehabilitation of Homestuck’s image. It’ll be seen as an important and influential work, with a place inside the cultural canon. Perhaps, like Infinite Jest, it’ll continue to have some subset of commentators who cannot get past their perception of the people who read the work rather than the work itself even thirty years after its publication, but eventually it’ll be recognized for innovations that precipitated a change in the way people think about stories and their meaning.
Until that day, enjoy eating raw sewage directly from a sewer pipe.
(Side note: I think Umineko no naku koro ni, which was published around the same time as Homestuck and which deals with many similar themes and then-novel ideas, will also one day receive recognition as a masterpiece. Check it out if you haven’t already!)
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-- my astrology observations pt.1
Aquarius risings with Neptune on the ascendant can be extremely popular for their appearance amongst their peers, they’re also pretty influential and can be copied very often if Uranus is conjunct the ASC. They tend to have an immaculate fashion sense especially if paired with Taurus placements.
What separates Libra from Taurus is their way of expressing Venusian energy: Taurus, fixed earth, expresses it through a beautiful voice and coveted seduction, they’re down to earth and aware that they’re naturally attractive, acting chill and not being a try-hard is their trick. libra, cardinal air, on the other hand, isn’t scared to shake things up and keep people on their toes, they’d flirt to see how well their charm works and would change “tactics” to hook people in. they’re cardinal and so know how to spark someone’s interest but their air nature can make them pull away before they feel trapped. Taurus alternatively might prefer to simply sit because they know they attract people without moving a finger. Both can be very charming but also difficult to pin down especially as they grow older and more in tune with their Venusian nature.
As someone who always does readings for my friends, I noticed people with similar majors tend to have similar placements! law/political science majors tend to have a lot of Libra or just Libra on the angles and even 7th-house placements. IT/coding majors tend to have a lot of Scorpio/Virgo/Aquarius. actually, you can even guess why they chose the major from their chart.
My Capricorn friend chose software engineering because of the job prospects and because he enjoys working hard on a program and seeing it come to fruition which is very Saturnian.
8th house synastry is a complex matter but I believe the issue lies in people looking for that one overlay that guarantees a perfect relationship: there’s no such a thing. each overlay will have different results depending on both people’s charts and how they use or abuse their own placements. 5h synastry with your 5h stellium crush can seem incredible until you realize their Saturnian nature makes them see 5h energy as inherently immature and repress that nature, and have their ego drive them to see all fun they don’t initiate as cringey. 7h synastry can seem like a promise for marriage until you realize your person hates how they lose themselves in their relationships and distance away from you. In short, you can’t promise anything even with a synastry chart in front of you if you don’t know the trauma and experiences of both people. Makes sense, because astrology is truly just a tool to understand better, it doesn’t control or define anything.
8th house moon synastry can make the moon person very attuned to the other person’s feelings and want to know how their deepest emotions. Bad intentions can make the moon person use their knowledge to manipulate the house native though. it can be an aspect for understanding but if the house person has a Scorpio or Saturnian moon, or a natal 12h/4h/8h moon, or moon aspecting Saturn they might see this desire as annoying and could put them off, especially if they’re emotionally unavailable/stunted: they see the connection as making them too vulnerable and will escape it.
Sun conjunct Saturn… might make the sun person feel as if the Saturn person is repressing them, dulling their light, and just dampening their mood. In what exactly? that depends on the sun sign and house where the conjunction happens. e.g: if the sun conjuncts Saturn in Gemini in the 9h: sun person might feel that Saturn isn’t as enthusiastic or excited about the things that they’re passionate about or doesn’t understand their jokes or interests, shuts down convos or doesn’t let them talk. They might feel mocked for their beliefs or that the Saturn person doesn't take their philosophies and deeper concerns seriously.
I disagree with the notion that certain placements indicate intelligence or otherwise lack of. Intelligence is so complex and difficult to define, and I don’t mean eq vs iq or mathematical vs linguistic Intelligence, I mean that people’s experiences can push them to hone certain intellect over the other: having a libra stellium doesn’t mean all you got is street smarts, but that’s what you found yourself focusing on developing due to the cards you were dealt in life. I believe your chart will indicate which skills and intelligence you had to use, or need to use, be it something you have to learn from scratch or an instinctive talent, rather than natural skills.
that’s all, thank you for reading this far <3
#astrology observation#astrology notes#astro notes#astro placements#astro observations#astro thoughts#zodiac#astrology signs#capricorn#scorpio#natal chart#taurus#aquarius#libra placements#7th house#8th house#8h synastry#8h moon#virgo#venus#venusian#sun conjunct saturn#aquarius rising#neptune aspects#uranus aspects
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Mike Wheeler is important and there's nothing wrong with analyzing him
Since y'all wanna be insufferable bitches about it I'm gonna explain to you why he's important, why Will loves him, why his struggles should be acknowledged, and why his character depth is pivotal to byler endgame being a satisfying conclusion for both Mike AND Will. Deal with it!
We are not seeing smoke where there isn't a flame. We are seeing smoke where there is a literal fucking forest fire.
Starting off with something a lot of people aren't ready for but I've seen more people talking about: Mike is the main character of s1 at the very least. He is the character that brings us into the world of stranger things. He is the character that the writers chose for this. Mike is the main character of s1 and it was an instant hit. The writers love Mike. Contrary to popular belief, giving a character an arc where they are struggling and their behavior changes from what is normal for the character we know and love does NOT mean the writers hate that character. It means they deliberately chose to give that character complexity and depth. Your inability to like characters that do anything wrong ever is not the fault of the writers. Your decision to act as if a character is not important is not reflective of the actual narrative because it in fact is in direct opposition to the narrative. So just to be clear, if you genuinely believe that Mike isn't important, or that the writers hate him, or don't care about him, or that his story "takes away" from any other character's - ESPECIALLY WILL'S - you are simply wrong.
In s1 and s2 Mike is established as an extremely caring person. He's loving, loyal, brave, intelligent, and trying his best. He is also established to be hot headed, someone who speaks without thinking quite often, someone who is capable of hurting his friends despite that being the last thing he wants to do. He is all of these things and more. He is a human. He is a kid. So in s3, when suddenly he is entirely different, it is completely logical to assume that there is a reason for that. He did not just wake up one day and decide he wanted to be an asshole, push Will away, make his friends feel abandoned, and echo the same sentiments their bullies held. Something is happening with him. He has so much going on in his head and it is painfully obvious. He's holding something in, he's hiding from everyone and from himself. We see glimpses of what he's trying to hide after Will calls him out on his behavior. Will gets through to him. Mike is usually unresponsive to tough love, except for when it's coming from Will. After their fight, it is obvious that he's trying to be better. But he still doesn't wanna face certain things, and he doesn't know how to navigate that. Because he's 13 years old.
There is a reason for all of that internal conflict. There is a reason it comes pouring out of him at certain times. He's crumbling. He is quite literally falling apart because he's holding on to too much. It's not a stretch to assume that, it just takes basic media literacy. Why would the writers have Mike act this way if he was just supposed to be a one dimensional character? Why would Finn be directed to portray Mike the way he does if there was nothing more going on? There are times where Mike looks like he's in physical pain because of his internal conflict. There is a reason for that. And acknowledging that DOES NOT mean people are taking away from Will. That's the most idiotic thing I have ever heard. Do y'all seriously not understand that more than one character can have emotionally complex storylines? Genuinely asking, is this a new concept for you?
Will's love for Mike
Will is head over heels in love with Mike. That is very much established. So when you're dismissing the emotional depth of Mike's individual arc because you think acknowledging it "takes away from Will" you are actually diminishing the significance of a huge aspect of Will's emotional arc. By taking away the significance of Mike, you take away from the significance of Will.
Let's do a quick recap of the very significant role Mike has played in Will's entire life:
Mike is Will's first friend.
They have grown up together and it can be assumed that they've reached important milestones together.
Mike has always been a safe person for Will. He's been a constant in Will's very chaotic and unfair life. Until the summer of '85, Mike had always been something good in Will's life. (That's not to say he is no longer something good, but it can be assumed that the summer of '85 is the first time Mike has been a causal factor in Will's unhappiness)
When Will went missing, Mike did not hesitate to search for him. It wasn't even a question of if. The moment he knew Will was missing he knew exactly what he'd be doing that night. He spearheaded the search amongst the party. He was the leader.
When Will came back, Mike was the only person that didn't treat him like he was gonna break. He cared for him, and he was there for him, but he didn't treat him differently; Will tells us as much. Which means we can infer that the way Mike was with Will in s2 - how gentle and loving he was - was nothing new. He had just always been like that.
When Will was possessed, Mike stayed by his side. Even when it was scary, even when it could've gotten him killed, he stayed. Because once again, for him, it wasn't even a question. That's just where he knew he needed to be. He was in the shed when they were trying to get through to Will. He was set apart from Lucas and Dustin, but he also wasn't equated to family. And his retelling of the story of the day they first met was the final push Will needed to find a way to communicate.
After a year of things being "weird" between them, Mike tells Will that he didn't deserve to be treated the way he had been. Mike tells him that he wants them to be okay again, and for the rest of the season he puts in the work.
Things get rough in s3, and at the beginning of s4, and despite all of that, Will confesses his love (albeit veiled). In a moment where Mike is feeling awful about himself, he tells him that he loves him and needs him, and he tells him why. And to him it doesn't matter that he's breaking his own heart to do it, because it's Mike. Mike, who makes him feel like he's not a mistake at all, and that he's better for being different. For Will, there was no other option. The person he loves was hurting and he knew how to help, and so he did.
Mike is the first person Will tells about Vecna still being alive. Because they're back to being a team. He knows he can trust Mike, and Mike seems to be very determined to prove him right.
SO.
These are all real and canon aspects of Mike's presence in Will's life. Will falling in love with Mike isn't something that just happened for no reason. Will fell in love with Mike because of who Mike is. When you acknowledge that, and when you acknowledge the reasons they've set out for why Will loves him - the reasons Will literally told us - you can better understand Will. But when you dismiss all of these things about Mike, you are dismissing a large portion of Will's emotional and romantic arc. You aren't being a Will Warrior. You are erasing so much of him and his feelings and his lived experience. That is not the hill you wanna die on.
Will loves a person. Not a feeling. Yes, he says that Mike makes him feel like he's not a mistake and that he's better for being different. But that's not why he loves him. He feels that way because he loves him.
Mike is a fully fleshed out character with his own feelings and struggles and fears and traumas and motivations. He's not a plot device. He's not just an accessory to Will's arc. He's not a character that was written only to be Will's love interest. He's Will's love interest because he's Mike.
If Mike didn't matter, and if Mike didn't play a significant role in byler, then they would be able to write in a love interest for Will in s5 and have it be somewhat satisfying. But they can't do that. Will's love for Mike has so much depth because Mike has so much depth. It is genuinely crazy that this has to be stated and that I have to back up this claim because it is simply a canon fact.
So yes, the rain fight affects Mike's character development and his involvement in it is important. Yes, the van scene literally could not exist without Mike and therefore his involvement in it is incredibly important. Yes, every single byler moment has an impact on Mike, and Mike has an impact on it because they are BYLER moments. Yes, Mike will have a lot of significant moments - with Will AND on his own - in s5 because his arc deserves and needs as much attention as Will's in order to execute byler endgame in a satisfying way.
No, none of these facts negate Will's importance or take away from his story. If anything, they add to it because Mike and Will's arcs are corresponding and intertwined.
Mike's struggles
To name a few
Dysfunctional family
Has been bullied his entire life
Extreme self worth issues
Inferiority complex
Hero complex
Lack of self preservation
Suicidal ideation (has been on display since SEASON ONE)
Internalized homophobia
To get this out of the way: Mike's internalized homophobia is allowed to be discussed. Discussion of it is not the dismissal of Will's internalized homophobia. Surprise surprise, two queer kids in the 80s have internalized homophobia! Who'd'a thunk it?! Their internalized homophobia presents in different ways but it is there for both of them. I personally relate to the way Mike's is portrayed way more than I relate to Will's. So why is it that we can't discuss it without being accused of erasing Will's experience? Or without people saying that we're "copy and pasting" Will's story? Because quite frankly, that feels dismissive of my - and likely many others' - real and lived experience. So please for the love of all things that are good just stop with this talking point because it will never hold up.
Moving on
I'm not gonna do a full breakdown of all of Mike's issues. Because contrary to popular belief, there are a lot. And that would be exhausting and I'd get carried away and it's not the point of this post. The point of this post is to defend the acknowledgement and mere existence of them.
If you're a byler that for some reason thinks Mike only exists to be Will's love interest and his trophy as compensation for his trauma, let me ask you this: Have you considered how awful it would be to have a queer character's individuality and emotional depth completely ignored for the sake of focusing on the queer character that "really matters"?
If Mike's own issues, with his queer identity and otherwise, aren't thoroughly explored... What's the point of all this? If Mike really is insignificant in this storyline and his individuality has no effect on it.. where's the emotional payoff? If his perspective doesn't matter... Why have the writers gone to such great lengths to ensure we don't have that piece of the puzzle yet?
Analyzing Mike and understanding Mike is very important to understanding byler. Once again, I think it's crazy that this needs to be said.
I also think it's important to note that characters can have similar struggles. There's no rule against that. Just like real life. Characters having similar struggles is not a bad thing, and acknowledging that their struggles are similar is not dismissive of either character. We're talking about STRANGER THINGS. Jonathan and Nancy's thing is "we've got shared trauma". They have literal matching scars. Shared experiences are some of the main building blocks for this show's romances. Byler has a TON of shared experience, basically their entire lives. We already know that. So wouldn't it be so beautiful for them to learn that they've been struggling with the same thing this whole time? That the entire time they felt alone in what they were going through when really they had each other and they never even knew it? Wouldn't it be so beautiful for Mike's acceptance of Will and Will's love for him was also a step toward accepting himself? Wouldn't it be beautiful for Will to learn that his love makes Mike feel like he's not a mistake? None of that would be in the realm of possibility if Mike didn't have emotional depth and if his individuality wasn't important.
And that leads me to my concluding point...
A satisfying execution of byler endgame hinges on Mike's individual emotional arc being handled well
God I hope this isn't controversial to say. I sincerely hope most people haven't forgotten that.
Here's a hypothetical:
Imagine season five has been released. You're watching it, and you notice that Mike has been relegated to just a supporting character for Will. We don't get any of his perspective. We don't get any explanation for his s3 and early s4 behavior. His breakup with El doesn't have any real tangible effect on him, it's really just used for El's character development. We never see him pining for Will like we saw Will pining for him. And then suddenly Mike is learning about the painting and then suddenly he's confessing his love and then suddenly byler is canon and official.
Now wouldn't that just be awful? Wouldn't that be unfair to the audience, to Mike, and to Will? For us to never learn just how much Mike had to go through to even be able to say it out loud? For Mike to never get the chance to prove to himself through word and action that he is the heart? For Will to never get an explanation for why things did get so "weird" between them? It would leave us with one big, nagging question: What was the point of everything Mike has said and done throughout the entire show if his conclusion is that lackluster?
Disregarding Mike for a moment (I know that's incredibly ironic given what the entire point of this is but just bear with me) - how would that be a satisfying conclusion for Will? I mean, Will's s4 arc was basically dedicated to showcasing his struggle with his sexuality and with his love for Mike. We were shown just how deep that love is. We were shown how patient, unselfish, unwavering, and beautiful that love is. So how would it be satisfying for Mike's love for him to not be shown with just as much depth? How would it be satisfying for Mike to just be a one dimensional character whose s5 arc is essentially "break up with girlfriend, wait to find out best friend is in love with him, say he loves him back, then they live happily ever after"? I think Will deserves for his love to be returned with the same intensity at which he gives it. And I think it should be clear to the audience and to Will himself.
Back to Mike!
Mike has been through so much shit. I don't think anyone that is denying that actually believes he hasn't been through shit. Because you'd actually have to watch the show on mute and with your eyes closed to think this kid hasn't had just the worst time. It's so ignorant to act as if this stuff hasn't affected him. There's stuff we've seen but there's stuff we also haven't seen. There are issues he has that date back to his childhood pre-canon. Just like Will, Mike has been a queer kid growing up in 80s smalltown conservative america. Acknowledging the pain he 100% carries because of that is so important. His perspective has been withheld from us, not because it's unimportant, but because it's the final puzzle piece. If we had Mike's perspective in s4, byler wouldn't be a "will they won't they" (even though we all know they will). If we got his perspective in s4, byler would be a "100% certain without a doubt they will". But the thing about his perspective is that it's so much more than just loving Will. It's fear. It's pain. It's insecurity. It's doubt. It's the belief that his happiness just doesn't matter all that much. All of that has to be explored. All of that has to be laid out in the open for us in order for byler endgame to feel earned. Mike's emotional payoff will lead to byler's emotional payoff.
Mike has known he loves Will. In s5 we will see him make a deliberate and active effort to overcome the things keeping him from doing something about it. And then he will do something about it.
And so when it finally happens. When both Mike and Will finally know that their feelings are requited, and when their arcs end with us knowing that they will face whatever life has in store for them together, that will feel earned. That will feel like the logical conclusion for both of them. Not just for Mike. Not just for Will. For both.
And Mike is just as important to that conclusion as Will is.
And one last thing...
Some people are going to talk about Mike more. Some people are going to talk about Will more. Because newsflash, people have preferences. Some people just relate to Mike more, or they find his emotional arc extremely compelling, or they just like him. It isn't an attack on Will or any other character. No one is saying Mike is more important than any other character (I'm sure there are people that say that but they are a vocal minority and they are simply wrong). We are just saying that he is important. If you wanna engage in media analysis, please understand that "main character" or "central character" does not mean "only important character" and "only character that should be analyzed". If you wanna talk about Will and only Will, that's fine. But you don't get to act like people that talk about other characters are doing a disservice to your fave, because that's not how any of this works.
#mike defenders i need you to back me up on this#i hope my points come across well#anyway#the way people have been talking about mike lately is so infuriating#its called BYLER analysis because its the analysis of BYLER the ship involving will AND mike#st fandom consistently proving that they have absolutely no idea how fandom works#its almost like people wanna talk about things they care about and you dont get to tell them to shut up#if you dont wanna see people talking about mike you can just mute tags about him#but if you dont wanna talk about mike youre missing a huge part of the byler puzzle and thats your loss#please just let people discuss whatever they want to discuss as long as its not ACTUALLY harmful#sometimes i think y'all are allergic to fun#byler#mike wheeler#mike wheeler analysis#will byers#< this is about him too#byler analysis#byler endgame#stranger things
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THE CANCER ARCHETYPE
﹕PLANETARY RULER: MOON
﹕ELEMENT: WATER
﹕MODALITY: CARDINAL
﹕POLARITY: NOCTURNAL
﹕SYMBOL: THE CRAB
﹕BODY PART RULERSHIP: THE CHEST, BREASTS, AND STOMACH
﹕PLANETARY DIGNITIES: MOON IN CANCER (DOMICILE), JUPITER IN CANCER (EXALTED), SATURN IN CANCER (DETRIMENT), MARS IN CANCER (FALL)
↝ cancer is defined by it's emotional nature, and let me preface, cancer (alongside the water and fire signs) being emotional is not a bad thing. we're conditioned by society, our parents, our friends, etc. to believe that expressing emotions let alone having them is something that should be shamed, and i feel like that plays a very big role in how cancer is regarded. i mentioned this in the gemini archetype post, but some people will attribute negative stereotypes to certain signs and unironically refer to those stereotypes when describing what they believe is the "true nature" of the sign. in cancer's case, they're usually described as moody, maternal crybabies. and i would be remiss to not acknowledge the very obvious fact that most cancerian stereotypes are just rooted in misogyny and the collective distain for vulnerability and emotional expression.
↝ in my opinion, cancer is a very underestimated sign. people tend to get hung up on the emotional aspect of cancer, which is an integral part of cancer's archetype, but i feel like it overshadows the fact that cancer is cardinal, and therefore by nature a very ambitious, action-oriented sign. alongside the moon's rulership, cancer has the innate ability to gift life to new ideas and concepts, and they typically have an extremely deep, intimate connection to their creations, whether it be their careers, children, relationships/friendships, homes, etc. their deep emotional bond to these things is where their nurturing nature comes from. i don't want to reinforce the "cancers are the moms of the friend group" narrative because i know a lot of cancerians hate that lmao, so while cancerian energy can manifest in that way, it can also just be indicative of being protective (or even defensive) of one's own creativity, professional endeavors, or private life.
↝ cancerian energy is very guarded, and they usually maintain relationships with a select group of long-time friends and family. while this is a sign that's regarded as being friendly and receptive, they prefer the familiarity of the company they keep over connecting with new people and building new relationships with them. because they are guarded in relation to their loved ones and their passions, they can become volatile when they feel those things are being impeded upon. it's one of the reasons why i always visualize cancerians as al from fullmetal alchemist, they have the capacity to fuck you up, but inside they're just sweet little babies. cancer is also the youngest of the water signs, and i feel like that, paired with the moon's influence, is why one of the main lessons that cancer is here to learn is to experience their emotions without being controlled by them. they need to master the ability to navigate through life with balance between their heart and their head, instead of relying too heavily on one or the other.
↝ cancer, alongside the rest of the water signs, is not afraid to feel, and as i mentioned, that is a beneficial characteristic to have in a world full of people who are numb and jaded. but contrary to popular belief, cancerians usually are not the type to be openly emotional due to their guarded nature. they usually reserve their vulnerability for the tight-knit circle they keep. overall, cancerian energy is by nature very empathetic, creative, and intuitive. they're one of those signs that have a knack for being able to read a room and move accordingly. they do very well in leadership roles, and tend to be very direct and even authoritative at times in these positions, all the while remaining emotionally receptive to the needs of the people that they work with. cancer is an extremely resilient, responsible, and kind-hearted sign, do not let the mischaracterizations fool you.
﹕CANCER CELEBRITIES: ariana grande, chloë bailey, conor mcgregor, harrison ford, jacob elordi, jaden smith, kali uchis, kevin hart, lana del rey, lil kim, margot robbie, maya hawke, meryl streep, mike tyson, missy elliott, princess diana, priyanka chopra, robin williams, saweetie, selena gomez, solange, storm reid, taylor russell
disclaimers | masterlist | ask
#astrology#zodiac signs#cancer#cancer astrology#astro notes#cancer zodiac#cancer archetype#zodiac moodboard#cancer moodboard#cancer placements#astrology notes#cancer energy#astrology observations#birth chart observations#birth chart reading#astrology aspects#astroblr#astro placements#astro observations
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s k i n c a r e 1 0 1
this post will go over basic information like skin type and how to determine it as well as more in depth info about types of cleansers, moisturisers and sunscreen, how to choose and apply them. Whether you should incorporate toners, essences, serums, masks, or exfoliants into your skincare routine and what to look for in them. As well as some more general lifestyle tips and what kinds of products you should be using at your current age or consider getting in the future.
To determine skin type
Wash your face and let it air dry .
If it feels tight and itchy you have dry skin . You may also see fine lines or flakes on your skin .
If your skin is oily you’ll have more visible pores and your skin will be shiny . This skin type is usually prone to acne , black heads , and white heads .
If it feels tight in certain places or has large pores in some areas but not others. If you notice aspects of both skin types on different parts of your face. Congratulations you have combination skin .
If none of these apply to you and your face doesn’t feel oily or dry then you've got normal skin .
Some people view sensitive as a skin type , I personally don't. Sensitivity can be developed or be sensitive in combination with another skin type .
As you age your skin tends to become thinner and dryer.
cleanse
The types of cleansers
Micellar water - tiny oil molecules suspended in soft water which attract oil and dirt . Especially recommended for those with sensitive skin .
Foam - start out as gel or cream and lather to foam and removes all excess oil from the skin . Which is good for combination skin
Gel - similar to foam cleanser. Good for acne prone or oily skin
Lotion - because of their consistency they’re less stripping thus suitable for sensitive dry skin
Balm - if you wear a lot of makeup, especially if your makeup is waterproof this is for your . Rub the balm over your face . They also have hydrating benefits which makes them perfect for dry skin .
Oil Based - contrary to popular belief oily skin types can use oil cleansers without fear of side effects. They remove dirt without disturbing your skin barrier or drying out your skin .
Clay - draw out all excess oils and toxins from your skin . Not suitable for dry skin as it may be overly stripping but are perfect for sensitive oily or combination .
Wipes - requires no real explanation . You just wipe your skin with the little disposable cloth .
How to use them
wash your hands so you don’t transfer more germs onto your face , that would defeat the purpose of cleansing
Wet your face
Now rub the cleanser of choice between your hands . You only need a pea to a blueberry amount . Some will foam , others will cream , and then there are those that won’t really do anything.
Rub the cleanser gently in circular motions all over your face . Emphasis on the gentle part . Use your pointer and middle finger and imagine you’re washing someone else’s face .
You should do this for no more than a minute , any longer could be stripping to your skin
If your skin is super dry you can use a cleanser once a day so you don’t over strip your skin . cleanse with product at night to get rid of all the impurities picked up during the day and in the morning all you did was sleep in a clean room in a clean bed . That doesn’t mean don’t wash your face in the morning . You should still be using water to wash your face . Not just rinsing , actually wash your face .
If you don’t have this issue you can try double cleansing . This is when you cleanse first with an oil based cleanser then with a water based cleanser . We double cleanse because not all impurities are water soluble . Double cleansing helps to thoroughly cleanse your skin . This method works well if you wear a lot of thick , heavy makeup . Bear in mind that it would be too stripping to double cleanse every day , twice a day. if you really want to double cleanse every night and you’re hydrating your skin well afterwards there should be no problem .
Protect
After cleansing you need to protect your skin . During the day you protect it with sunscreen and during the night you use a moisturiser . I have really dry skin so I use a moisturiser in the morning as well .
A rule of thumb don’t mix your sunscreen and moisturiser ( or any of your skincare products ) layer them .
Sunscreen
There are two number values on the bottle PA and SPF.
SPF stands for sun protection factor, refers to how long protection lasts and protects you from uv rays that cause sunburn. Generally SPF 15 blocks 93% of UV rays and SPF 30 blocks about 97%. Spf that is too high isn’t good for your skin but ideally you want to use spf50 when going outdoors.
PA protects you from uv rays that accelerates aging. Here you want to focus on the number of plus signs on the bottle as they indicate the effectiveness of the product.
Even with sunscreen it’s still advised you stay out of direct sunlight for long periods of time. So wear a hat if you can’t avoid it .
Types of Sunscreen
Chemical - are absorbed into your skin and turn uv rays into energy before they can hurt your skin . Sensitive skin may want to stay away from this type as it could cause a bad reaction . Don’t rule chemical sunscreen out completely though. It may have been one bad brand or ingredient . Note this sunscreen needs to be applied first as it has to penetrate your skin .
Physical - sits on top of your skin and act like a shield from uv rays which means it needs to be applied last . Because they sit on your skin they’re thicker and tend to leave a cast so people with darker skin may prefer chemical sunscreen .
Powder and spray - is more of a reapplication than a primary sunscreen . The idea is you use your physical or chemical sunscreen and every two hours you reapply a powder or spray sunscreen .
How to use sunscreen
Cleanse
Dot a teaspoon amount of sunscreen all over your face (and body)
Gently massage it into your skin . I’ll say that again : Gently , gently massage
Reapply every two hours
If you wear makeup it’s best to apply physical sunscreen over makeup as you’ll have to do so anyway when you reapply .
Moisturiser
Types of moisturisers
Humectants - attract water and slow down evaporation usually comes in gel formulas . They absorb into the skin quickly making them best for oily skin types .
Emollients - fills the gaps between skin with hydrating oils and lipids . These have a light cream or lotion consistency . This type best for dry or combination skin .
Occlusives - seals in moisture and stops it from evaporating . They come in thick creams and balms . Perfect for dehydrated , dry , mature skin .
How to apply moisturiser
Cleanse face and apply chemical sunscreen if using
Then apply moisturiser , a pea to blueberry sized amount
Dab it all over your face
Soothe each up and across your face in circular motions
Again be very gentle using your middle and forefingers
These are the foundations of skincare. Consider the next sections only after you have these first three covered.
Treat
Between cleansing and protecting comes a treatment step. this can be with a toner , essence , serum , exfoliation, and masks . All of the above if your skin can handle it. Layer them from lightest to thickest consistency and exfoliate after cleansing.
Masks, toners, essences, and serums are infused with nutrients, antioxidants, and vitamins chosen to treat specific skin concern . I have a section on ingredients to treat skin concerns at the end. When comparing products look at the similarities and differences between their ingredient lists. The order or products is usually from highest to lowest concentration.
Remember an ingredient or product that someone else swears by may not work well for your skin . this step requires trail and error, time and money . Consistent cleansing, moisturiser and sunscreen should fade most concerns so don’t fret over a treatment if you can’t afford to.
If any product you have doesn’t work for you , don’t waste the product and throw it away . You could give it to a friend with a similar skin concern to see if it works better for them .
Toner
Watery consistency , the lightweight helping it absorb into the skin quickly . Applied with cotton pad after double cleansing to hydrate and restore the PH of skin .
If the toner is exfoliating put a couple drops on a cotton pad, don’t drown it, and pass the pad once across your face.
If the toner is hydrating put a couple dots on your palm and gently pat the toner into your skin. If you need more than one layer feel free to repeat this process no more than 7 times
Essence
As hydrating and fast absorbing but thicker than toners. However they're less concentrated than serums.
Application is the same as a hydrating toner but 7 layers would be excessive, 2 to 3 should be enough.
Serum
Usually comes in a dropper . Even if you’ve double cleansed it’s imperative that the dropper doesn’t touch your face to ensure bacteria won’t contaminate the dropper and by extension the serum . Once you’ve applied the serum gently massage the liquid into your skin .
Masks
Types of masks
Using a mask once or twice a week is beneficial but remember it’s not necessary . As long as you cleanse and protect you'll be fine
sheet
Works for all skin types . There are two variations of sheet masks . The first type is a cotton mask drenched in serum or essence . The second is a jelly-like sheet infused with ingredients . Sheet masks are extremely hydrating but the ingredients infused will determine the benefits .
Clay
If you have oily skin this one is for you . It’s a combination of water , clay , and minerals that determine the properties and absorb all excess oils from your skin . For this reason it’s best to stay away from this mask if your skin is already dry .
Charcoal
These masks are best used as spot treatments for breakouts as they help soothe inflammation . Charcoal helps remove excess oils as well .
Cream
This category is for wash off masks that don’t fit into the above categories . As previously stated the ingredients determine the benefits of a mask .
Overnight
As the name suggests you put it on before bed and it works while you’re asleep . What makes an overnight mask different from a night cream are the active ingredients .
Peel off
People with sensitive skin proceed with caution . This mask will literally peel the dead skin from your face . So sensitive skin types be careful . These have no active ingredients because they’re used for exfoliating than treating .
Exfoliate
This is when you remove dead skin cells. However it is not recommended if you have any kind of skin condition like acne, eczema, etc . The most important thing is that you cleanse and protect but exfoliation can remove dry dull skin and improve circulation
Types of exfoliation
Physical : sugar scrubs , clay masks , gommage peeling , dry brushing , sponges , and cloths rubbed onto the skin in circular motions
Chemicals: like AHAs ( alpha hydroxy acids ) that’ll break the bonds holding the dead skin onto your face or BHAs ( beta hydroxy acids ) . PHAs have larger particles and work best on thinner skin. LHA is a milder BHA perfect for acne prone skin .
Oily and dry skin types would benefit from physical exfoliation but if your skin is sensitive avoid rubbing into it harshly . To avoid irritation stick to a mild chemical exfoliant . AHAs followed by cleanser and moisturiser would be perfect for dry skin . if your skin is normal or combination you'll have to experiment with both chemical and physical exfoliants. A general rule is that chemical exfoliation is gentler and therefore better . You should never be too rough with your skin .
Common skin concerns and ingredients
acne
Benzoyl peroxide, 5% for face and 10% for body
Salicylic acid
Clindamycin (with BP)
Azeliac acid
Retinol/retinoids
pigmentation
SUNSCREEN
hydroquinone
Azelaic acid
Vitamin C
Kojic acid
Retinoid creams
Caffeine creams
Steroid creams
Superficial chemical peels
Laser resurfacing
scarring
High strength retinoid creams
Deep chemical peels
Laser resurfacing
Microneedling
If thick scars, steroid injections
Subcision/ filler for depressed scars
redness
Aloe vera
Niacinamide
Chamomile
Resveratrol
Licorice
Sodium sulfacetamide
Sulfur products
Azeliac acid
Bromelain
flaky dry skin
ceramides
Mineral oil
Petrolatum
Hyaluronic acid
Vitamin E
Selenium sulfide
Zinc pyrithione
Ketoconazole
Ciclopirox
Steroid creams/solutions
ideal skincare routine at based on age
- 15
mild cleanser
spf50 sunscreen
Moisturiser
15 - 18
At this stage there’s no need to worry about premature ageing
but you might consider incorporating an acne treatment
Or a hydrating sheet mask twice a week
19 - 24
You may notice dark circles or eye bags that require an eye cream
And consider an exfoliant or vitamin c to brighten dull skin or prevent fine lines
25 - 30
You want to focus on hydrating your skin to keep it soft and supple
And incorporating anti aging into your skincare through antioxidants and damage preventing treatments
31 +
You may notice your skin begin to notice sagging, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation
Thus choose lifting and firming products, anti wrinkle treatments, and ingredients that fade dark spots
Sun protection and hydration are absolutely crucial at this stage
lifestyle habits to incorporate
Correct any vitamin deficiencies and hormonal imbalances
Make sure you do not overeat especially on processed carbs and sugars or under eat to the point of lacking essential nutrients
Be sure to drink enough water throughout the day, the golden rule is 8 glasses a day
You may need to adjust your skincare routine depending on the season eg. Cold dry winter air may leave your skin needing more hydrating products while sweating more in the summer may lead to acne
Keep a regular sleep schedule of 7-9 hours a night on a silk pillowcase as the reduced friction can help prevent fine lines and change your pillowcases once a week to prevent bacteria build up
#wonyoungism#song jia#it girl#it girl energy#glow up#wellness#skincare#pink pilates princess#that girl#clean girl#vanilla girl#green juice girl#becoming that girl#advice#self improvement#level up#self growth#self development#wellness girl#matcha girl#self love#self love era#self investment#healthy girl ers#healthy lifestyle#new me#girlblogging#gaslight gatekeep girlboss
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Jade and Floyd Info Compilation part 15: Azul (pt6)
When Azul’s plot in Book 3 fails, Jade takes responsibility for the photo that he had wanted to steal rather than allow Azul to edit himself out of it.
Vil says Jade is famous among the housewardens as “a gifted secretary who fulfills Azul’s every wish.”
Azul says that he is “truly the best in the school at worming (his) way into other’s hearts” and when Jade asks if that is meant to be a compliment Floyd agrees, saying “It’s tricky to get into people’s good graces. You’re the only guy I know who could pull something like that off. Me? No way.”
Jade and Floyd are unhappy with being left behind for the Glorious Masquerade event, with Jade calmly requesting permission to join Floyd in throwing a tantrum.
Azul leaves them to their own devices until Floyd threatens the lounge, and promises them stories to keep them suitably entertained in exchange for their cooperation.
Azul buys them both curiously designed charms “with a cryptic meaning” during the event, and later realizes what they represent.
He tells Rollo that he will be keeping the secret to himself, however, as, “the point is to confuse the recipients. I want them to puzzle over what it is and why I gave it to them...I can see the confounded looks on Jade and Floyd’s faces now.”
Jade suspects someone of stalking him in a vignette where Azul asks why he hadn’t mentioned it and Jade says, “I did not think it concerning enough to trouble you with.” Azul warns him that the stalker must have an objective and Jade agrees, “because there are aspects of our business that might not look good. Like…all of them.”
Jade says that he prefers not to attract attention (“Azul is much better at that sort of thing”) and confirms that Azul is no longer possessed in Spectral Soiree by asking him to confirm Mostro Lounge’s earnings from the previous night.
Jade thanks Rook for saving them during Phantom Bride and Rook says he is certain Jade would have done the same for him.
Azul responds, “No, Jade would’ve simply looked on and chuckled.” (Rook: “I suppose there is also beauty in leaving matters to fate.”)
Floyd is most unimpressed by Azul’s overblot, saying he was acting “pretty lame” and it was “the cringiest thing (he’s) ever seen.”
Floyd says that he can skip out on opening ceremonies because Jade and Azul are so used to it by now that they don’t even get mad at him.
Azul explains to Trey that, contrary to popular belief at the school, while the two brothers are like “two twisted peas in a pod—each in their own uniquely dark way”, it is actually Floyd who is the easier to deal with on many levels, “since his nature is far more obvious tha Jade’s. Jade on the other hand…he’s a particular brand of devious. If you see him, do not provoke him. Do not make eye contact. Just back away slowly.”
But Azul says that Jade is a capable assistant (“I wouldn’t have appointed him as my vice housewarden otherwise”) and while “Floyd’s capriciousness is wearying…he always comes through when he’s needed most.”
Azul also says that he “cannot recommend Jade and Floyd’s cooking enough” and that the twins burst into his room at midnight on his birthday with a cake.
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Title: Dimensions & Planes: A Comprehensive Look
Related Reading:
The Energetic Senses
Visualization, Reiki, & Fascism
Astral Projection Basics
Conceptualization Vs. Visualization
Bias in Witchcraft
Basics of Warding
Introduction to Gnosis
Important note: A lot of information in this post has its origins from Theosophy (The core of New Age ideology) and is an integral part of a fascist pipeline. All high-risk concepts will be highlighted in red. Please use discretion when researching further into these topics. Researching for this article myself was very difficult and time consuming. The last thing I want to do is misinform others or provide sources that will lead my readers into a fascist pipeline.
The exploration of dimensions and spiritual planes has captivated human curiosity for centuries. From scientific inquiries into the nature of space and time to metaphysical explorations of unseen realms, these topics invite us to contemplate the mysteries that lie beyond our ordinary perception. In this comprehensive study, we delve into the intricate concepts and implications of dimensions and spiritual planes, transcending the boundaries of conventional knowledge and venturing into the realm of the unknown.
Understanding Dimensions
Dimensions, in scientific parlance, are fundamental parameters that define the structure and geometry of the universe. They serve as coordinates within the framework of space and time, facilitating the measurement and description of physical phenomena. Dimensions provide the framework through which the spatial and temporal extents of objects and events can be comprehended and quantified. It is important to distinguish between physical dimensions and their metaphysical, spiritual, & energetic counterparts. Physical dimensions relate to observable spatial and temporal extents that can be directly perceived and measured. Beyond the dimensions that our senses can apprehend, there are postulated higher dimensions that transcend our perceptual limitations. These higher dimensions are hypothesized to exist based on various scientific theories. While we can't directly perceive these dimensions, their existence is inferred through mathematical models and theoretical frameworks such as string theory and M-theory. These dimensions can become intuitive with study and regular exposure to conceptualizations of their behavior and properties.
String theory postulates the existence of additional compactified dimensions that are curled up and imperceptible at macroscopic scales. These dimensions are believed to influence the behavior of subatomic particles and underlie the fundamental forces of nature. M-theory extends this notion by encompassing multiple possible geometries and allowing for a broader range of dimensions. Multidimensional models, built upon principles of topology, provide mathematical frameworks to explore the complex structures and dynamics of higher-dimensional realms.
It is important to note that String and M-theory has been mostly dismissed in the scientific community as a purely mathematical experiment rather than an operable model.
Exploring Spiritual Planes
It is so important to discern genuine information from the influence of the Theosophical Society, which has at times distorted and popularized certain aspects. The society's appropriation and misrepresentation of spiritual concepts, such as the astral plane, have led to a bastardization of authentic beliefs. For example, the Theosophical Society popularized the notion of the astral plane as a realm inhabited by disembodied entities, deviating from its original context within esoteric traditions.
The concept of spiritual planes spans across diverse belief systems and religions, each offering unique perspectives and interpretations. For instance, in Hinduism, the concept of "lokas" refers to different realms or planes of existence, such as the physical realm (Bhuloka), the celestial realm (Svarloka), and the abode of the divine (Brahmaloka). Similarly, in Buddhism, the notion of "Buddhafields" represents different realms where enlightened beings reside, such as the Pure Land of Amitabha Buddha. Throughout history, spiritual planes have played a significant role in the practices and rituals of various cultures. Ancient Egyptian civilization, for instance, held a strong belief in the existence of the Duat, an underworld realm where the souls of the deceased traversed. Indigenous cultures worldwide have embraced the concept of otherworldly realms, such as the Aboriginal Dreamtime in Australia, which encompasses the spiritual dimension of creation and ancestral connection.
While the specific characteristics of spiritual planes may vary, some common elements emerge across different belief systems. These include the presence of heightened consciousness, divine energies or entities, transformative experiences, and access to higher knowledge. Spiritual planes are often described as existing beyond the physical realm, serving as realms of expanded awareness and connection to the divine or transcendent forces.
Spiritual planes encompass a range of realms beyond our immediate sensory perception. The astral plane, often discussed in esoteric traditions, is considered a realm of psychic and emotional energies. The ethereal plane is described as a realm of subtle energies and spiritual beings. Beyond these, the celestial planes are associated with realms of higher consciousness and divine presence. It is important to note that the categorization of these planes can vary across different belief systems.
The interactions between dimensions and spiritual planes are subjects of great interest and contemplation. While dimensions pertain to the structure of space and time, spiritual planes exist beyond these physical dimensions, yet are intricately connected to them. Spiritual planes are often described as existing in parallel or interpenetrating dimensions, coexisting alongside the physical realm. They are accessed through altered states of consciousness, deep meditation, prayer, mastery of energetic practices, or ritual practices. These interactions enable communication, guidance, and spiritual experiences, providing opportunities for personal growth, enlightenment, and union with the divine.
The Astral Plane
The astral plane is believed to exist parallel to the physical realm. It is often described as an interconnected network of subtle energies and vibrational frequencies that permeate the universe. However, it is important to note that the astral plane does not occupy a specific location in physical space as we understand it. Rather, it is a realm of consciousness and energy that can be accessed through altered states of awareness.
The history of the astral Plane is closely intertwined with esoteric and mystical traditions from various cultures (*1a) throughout human history. However, it is crucial to distinguish between genuine esoteric teachings and the popularization of the astral plane in certain New Age and Christofascist movements. Some individuals and groups have appropriated and distorted the concept of the astral plane, aligning it with their own ideologies and personal narratives.
A prevalent misconception surrounding the astral plane is the belief that it is inhabited by spiritual entities or beings. However, it is important to note that the astral plane itself is not a dwelling place for independent entities. Rather, it is a realm of energy and consciousness that reflects the thoughts, emotions, and intentions of individuals who access it. The perception of entities in the astral plane often arises from personal narratives, personal beliefs, or symbolic representations rather than the existence of actual separate beings. These narratives often stem from individuals who do not genuinely access the astral plane.
Perception and interaction with the astral plane vary among individuals and spiritual practitioners. It is commonly experienced through altered states of consciousness, such as deep meditation or astral projection. (*2a) However, it is important to note that the astral plane is not accessed through visualizing or imagining specific entities or landscapes. In fact, relying heavily on visualization during astral experiences can be a sign of failing to enter the authentic astral plane, as it indicates a reliance on mental constructs rather than a true connection. In order to enter the astral plane, one must break away from their physical body and move into their subtle body (astral form). Visualization is a mental and physical process and will keep a practitioner locked in their body.
For witches, the astral plane can serve as a valuable tool for spiritual exploration (*3a), self-discovery, and magical practice. By accessing the astral plane, witches can tap into aspects of their own being, gain insights, and work with potent subtle energies that they normally have difficulty accessing. They may engage in astral travel to gain knowledge, receive guidance (*4a), or create complex and sprawling energetic constructs. The astral plane can also be a space for ritual work, spellcasting, and experimentation.
1a: When trying to research the history of the astral plane, nearly all the information originates from the Theosophy Society.
2a: Many of the altered states and meditations (often guided) that are online or are in texts are mostly, if not entirely, based in New Age practices.
3a: Spiritual exploration, if not done responsible can very easily lead to cognitive bias.
4a: Seeking knowledge or guidance from the astral plane without experience and critical thinking leads to logical fallacy.
The Dream Plane
The dream plane is a fascinating realm of consciousness that exists parallel to our waking reality. It is a domain where dreams unfold and where the mind explores and experiences a multitude of scenarios and emotions. Unlike physical locations, the dream plane is not bound by conventional notions of space and time. It transcends the limitations of the physical realm, offering a platform for profound exploration of the subconscious mind.
Throughout history, dreams have held significant cultural and spiritual importance in various societies. Ancient civilizations, such as the Egyptians, Greeks, and Native Americans, recognized the profound insights and messages that dreams could convey. Dream interpretation was considered an art, with dreams being seen as portals to hidden truths, divine messages, or glimpses into the future. These cultural perspectives highlight the belief in the dream plane as a gateway to the mystical and the profound.
One common misconception regarding the dream plane involves the belief in the existence of entities or supernatural beings within dreams. However, it is important to understand that dreams primarily originate from the depths of the dreamer's own mind. The various characters, events, and environments encountered in dreams are often representations of personal experiences, emotions, and subconscious processes, rather than external entities or supernatural phenomena.
As far as science understands, the dream experience is a complex interplay of psychological and physiological processes. While dreams are commonly associated with the processing of subconscious thoughts and emotions, they offer more than mere symbolic representations. Dreams can provide profound insights, creative inspiration, and problem-solving abilities. They offer a unique window into the mind's inner workings, allowing for personal growth, self-reflection, and a deeper understanding of one's own psyche.
The dream plane is a realm of limitless possibilities, where the dreamer can navigate and interact with a rich tapestry of dream environments and experiences. Within this realm, the dreamer's thoughts, emotions, and beliefs shape the dream landscape, influencing the unfolding events and the overall dream experience. The dream plane becomes a canvas upon which the dreamer's subconscious and conscious mind converge, creating a personalized and dynamic dream narrative. During a dream, the dreamer becomes the space and is capable of experiencing any and every aspect of the space from any and every vantage point. While the dream plane is technically a zero dimensional space, the mind and subtle body generate as many dimensions as necessary in order to facilitate the dream. Small pocket spaces are generated that house aspects of the dreamer’s subconscious which are pulled from during the generation process. Time within the dream plane often behaves in a nonlinear and fluid manner, defying the constraints of our waking reality. Dreams can compress or expand time since they exist outside of time and space, enabling the dreamer to experience a significant passage of time within a brief dream episode or to condense extended periods into a fleeting moment. This time dilation and distortion within the dream plane add to the surreal and immersive nature of dream experiences. Furthermore, due to the method dreams are generated here, the dreamer moves through areas of the space that are dedicated to their subconscious. This is typically where the “vibe” of the dream is ingrained. Most of the dream is actually in these areas.
Dreamwalking is a unique phenomenon that involves consciously traversing the dream plane while in a state of lucidity. It differs from regular lucid dreaming as it encompasses the intentional exploration of other dreamers' dreams or venturing beyond the confines of the dream plane itself. Dreamwalkers possess an extraordinary ability to navigate and interact with dreams beyond their personal realm, connecting with other dreamers or accessing extradimensional realms within the dream space or beyond. This practice opens up a realm of possibilities for expanded consciousness, interconnectivity, and multidimensional perceptions. Think of the dream plane as a nexus where all planes and spatial dimensions connect. From this nexus, Dreamwalkers may leave and traverse anywhere. Due to the lack of time in the dream plane, a Dreamwalker may also traverse through any point in time when they leave the dream plane.
It is important to note that Dreamwalking is not an easy or common practice. The improper practice of Dreamwalking (or the narrative that one is doing so when they aren’t) can lead to cognitive bias. Some of the best ways to identify Dreamwalking are: Waking not feeling rested at all, remembering 100% of the dream- even the subconscious areas, waking with bloodshot eyes, feelings of being disconnected from the body for several hours after waking.
The Mental & Causal Planes
These planes originate 100% from Theosophy. Please use discretion when reading about or researching them.
The mental plane represents a realm of consciousness that transcends the physical and material dimensions. It encompasses the vast landscape of thoughts, ideas, and cognitive processes (*1b) that shape human experience. Within the mental plane, the mind operates on a heightened level of awareness, exploring the depths of intellectual inquiry, analysis, and creativity. It is a realm where abstract concepts, mathematical principles, and philosophical musings come to life (*2b). Examples of the mental plane's characteristics can be found in the insights and intellectual breakthroughs experienced by scholars, scientists, and artists (*3b). It is a domain where the mind's potential is unleashed, offering glimpses of universal truths and the interconnectedness of knowledge.
The causal plane resides beyond the realm of thoughts and ideas, diving deeper into the essence of existence itself. It represents the underlying causes and fundamental principles that shape the physical reality (*4b). The causal plane is the realm of pure potentiality, where the seeds of manifestation are sown. It transcends linear time and holds the blueprint for the unfolding of events and experiences in the physical world. Understanding the significance of the causal plane allows for a deeper comprehension of the interplay between cause and effect, and the power of intention to shape reality.
Consciousness plays a pivotal role in accessing and navigating the mental and causal planes. It is through consciousness that individuals can transcend the limitations of the physical world and tap into the higher realms of existence. Higher awareness enables a deeper understanding of the workings of the mind and the interconnected nature of all things. It allows individuals to transcend the confines of ego and tap into the collective consciousness, accessing profound wisdom and insights that surpass individual intellect (*5b).
Various practices can facilitate the exploration of the mental and causal planes, enabling individuals to expand their consciousness and delve into the depths of their inner being. Meditation serves as a powerful tool for quieting the mind, enhancing focus, and cultivating a state of heightened awareness. Through meditation, individuals can access deeper levels of consciousness and explore the realms of thought and intuition. Additionally, practices such as mindfulness, self-reflection, and introspection provide opportunities for self-discovery and accessing the wisdom of the mental and causal planes.
The mental and causal planes hold immense potential for practitioners of witchcraft. By tapping into these realms of consciousness, witches can enhance their magical practices and expand their understanding of the interconnectedness of all things. The mental plane provides a platform for the formulation of spells, rituals, and intentions, allowing for the cultivation of focused and directed thought energy. The causal plane, on the other hand, holds the keys to the underlying causes and forces that shape magical manifestations. By aligning with the energies of the causal plane, witches can amplify their intentions and manifest desired outcomes in the physical world (*6b).
1b: I have found zero support for these concepts that can’t be explained by imagination or visualization.
2b: Nearly all descriptions I’ve come across are all misunderstandings or misinterpretations of concepts found in science and math. 3b: I found zero first hand testimonies from qualifying individuals.
4b: This can easily be used to justify biases and elitism.
5b: See cognitive and confirmation biases.
6b: While alone, this idea isn’t inherently an issue, in the context of the rest of the topic, could easily lead witches to ineffective practices.
Intuitional Plane
This plane originates 100% from Theosophy. Please use discretion when reading about or researching it.
The intuitional plane represents a realm of consciousness that taps into the depths of inner knowing and wisdom. It transcends the limitations of rational thought and linear logic, allowing individuals to access insights, truths, and guidance that arise from a deeper, intuitive understanding (*1c). The intuitional plane is a gateway to the realm of instinct, gut feelings, and subtle perceptions that reside within each individual (*2c). It is a realm where knowledge arises effortlessly, bypassing the need for conscious analysis or external validation. The intuitional plane invites individuals to trust their inner guidance and connect with the wisdom that lies beyond the realm of ordinary perception (*3c).
The intuitional plane operates beyond the realm of visualization, offering a profound experience of direct knowing. It is not dependent on mental imagery or pictorial representation but rather arises as a deep inner resonance and understanding. Perceiving the intuitional plane involves a heightened sensitivity to subtle energies, a receptivity to inner nudges and whispers, and an openness to the spontaneous flow of intuitive insights. It is a realm that can be accessed through stillness and quieting of the mind, allowing the intuitive faculty to arise naturally and effortlessly.
Within the intuitional plane, individuals can explore a wide range of uses and applications. It serves as a wellspring of creativity, enabling artists, writers, and innovators to tap into new ideas and inspirations. It offers guidance and insights for decision-making (*4c), helping individuals navigate life's challenges and make choices aligned with their deepest values and purpose. The intuitional plane also provides access to spiritual insights and transcendent experiences (*5c), offering glimpses into the interconnectedness of all things and the nature of the divine.
Cultivating a receptive and open mindset is key to expanding intuitive capacities. This involves letting go of preconceived notions, suspending judgment (*6c), and embracing a sense of curiosity and wonder. Engaging in practices such as meditation, mindfulness, and self-reflection can help quiet the chatter of the mind and create space for intuitive insights to emerge. Developing self-awareness and attuning to one's inner sensations and feelings can also enhance intuitive abilities, as it allows individuals to discern the subtle cues and signals that arise from the intuitional plane.
There are various techniques that can be employed to access and utilize intuitive guidance from the intuitional plane. Journaling and reflective writing can serve as powerful tools for tapping into intuitive insights. By engaging in free-flowing writing and allowing thoughts and impressions to emerge without judgment, individuals can access the intuitive wisdom that arises from within. Engaging in creative practices such as art, music, or dance can also facilitate the expression of intuitive insights and enhance the connection with the intuitional plane. Additionally, practicing active listening and deepening one's capacity for empathy can help individuals attune to the intuitive messages that arise through interpersonal interactions and subtle energetic cues.
1c: This mentality can very quickly lead to cognitive bias.
2c: I found no supporting arguments for this plane’s existence outside of personal narratives and visualization.
3c: Giving too much trust to spiritual means of acquiring information will lead to multiple logical fallacy.
4c: No one should ever rely on magical or mystical means when making life changing or major decisions.
5c: This concept can easily be used to enforce personal narratives.
6c: Letting go of judgement when dealing with concepts and practices within a new age practice is asking to fall into fascism. See new age conspiracy theories and fascist propaganda.
Other Esoteric Planes
Beyond the realms of the astral, mental, causal, and intuitional planes, there exist a myriad of other esoteric planes waiting to be explored. While the exact number and nature of these planes may vary across different spiritual traditions and belief systems, they collectively contribute to a lot of esoteric knowledge and offer diverse avenues for spiritual exploration. Each of the following planes either originate from or were heavily influenced by Theosophy. Please use discretion.
The Ethereal Plane: a realm of subtle energies that underlie the physical universe. It is often described as a bridge between the physical and spiritual dimensions (*1d), serving as a conduit for the flow of life force energy. In this plane, one can explore the interconnectedness of all things and gain insights into the energetic dynamics that shape our reality. This plane is also inhabited by spiritual entities.
The Celestial Plane: The Celestial Plane represents realms of heightened spiritual consciousness and divine presence (*2d). It is often associated with celestial beings, transcendent states of bliss, and profound spiritual insights. Exploring the celestial plane offers seekers the opportunity to connect with divine wisdom (*3d), experience states of unity and oneness, and deepen their understanding of the cosmic order.
The Akashic Plane*: The Akashic Plane, also known as the Akashic Records, is described as a vast reservoir of collective knowledge and information. It is said to contain the records of all past, present, and future events, as well as the thoughts, emotions, and experiences of all beings. Accessing the Akashic Plane allows individuals to tap into this expansive library of wisdom and gain insights into their soul's journey and the interconnectedness of all life (*4d).
The Transcendent Plane: The Transcendent Plane represents the highest realms of spiritual realization and non-dual awareness. It transcends the limitations of form and duality, offering seekers a direct experience of the timeless and formless nature of existence. Exploring the Transcendent Plane involves surrendering the individual ego and merging with the infinite consciousness that underlies all creation (*5d).
1d: As far as I could find, the type of spiritual entities aren’t ever really specified beyond “angels”.
2d: Typically anything that heightens spiritual consciousness and connections with the divine or anything along those lines is a set up for bias and godphoning/manipulation.
3d: Given the context of this practice, “divine wisdom” is a means of spiritual elitism and gatekeeping.
4d: See cognitive bias. This practice can be used and manipulated to justify nearly any action, ideology, prejudice, or preference. Creates an environment perfect for elitism.
5d: A bastardization of the concept of enlightenment found in some Buddhist and Hindu practices.
Navigating the Spiritual Planes
Embarking on a journey to explore the vast realms of the spiritual planes requires the utilization of various tools and practices. These tools serve as gateways to higher states of consciousness and facilitate the exploration of multidimensional realities. By engaging in specific practices, seekers can enhance their capacity to navigate the spiritual planes and connect with the profound wisdom and transformative experiences they offer.
Meditation stands as one of the foundational practices for navigating the spiritual planes. Through focused attention and mindfulness, individuals can quiet the mind, transcend the limitations of the physical body, and tap into higher states of awareness. By cultivating a deep sense of presence and inner stillness, practitioners can access expanded states of consciousness and explore the depths of their being.
Lucid dreaming serves as another powerful avenue for multidimensional exploration. This practice involves becoming aware within the dream state, enabling individuals to consciously interact with and navigate the dream environment. By honing the skill of lucidity, seekers can harness the potential of the dream plane as a platform for spiritual growth, self-discovery, and even interaction with non-physical entities or aspects of their own psyche.
Out-of-body experiences (OBEs) offer yet another avenue for traversing the spiritual planes. During an OBE, individuals perceive themselves as existing outside their physical bodies, allowing them to explore different dimensions, realms, or even visit other states of existence. Through various techniques such as astral projection or remote viewing, seekers can expand their consciousness beyond the constraints of the physical body and venture into uncharted territories.
Gnosis is one of the most reliable methods for entering a spiritual plane. Through a state of gnosis, a practitioner may become so engulfed in the conceptualization of the plane that their physical body almost seems to melt away.
Shamanic practices, deeply rooted in various indigenous traditions, provide profound methods for navigating the spiritual planes. Shamanic journeying involves entering an altered state of consciousness through rhythmic drumming or other techniques, enabling individuals to connect with spirit guides, ancestors, and the energetic realms beyond the ordinary perception. Through the use of sacred rituals, plant medicines, and spiritual ceremonies, practitioners can access profound states of consciousness and engage in transformative experiences within the spiritual planes. Be very conscious when trying shamanic practices as a lot of them are either closed or appropriations of closed cultures. Remember to be respectful and aware.
Seeking guidance from spiritual teachers and traditions can provide valuable insights and support in navigating the spiritual planes. These teachers, who have often dedicated their lives to spiritual exploration and practice, offer wisdom, techniques, and guidance based on their own experiences. By studying under the tutelage of these teachers, individuals can receive guidance on the practices, rituals, and approaches that facilitate safe and transformative journeys through the spiritual planes. However, please bear in mind that a lot of these concepts have their root in New Age practices and ideologies. Due to this, many “guides” and “teachers” actually commodify their services, which will likely not even be genuine. Many predatory capitalist practices exist within the New Age community. Reiki is an excellent example.
Spatial Dimensions & Witchcraft
Spatial dimensions play a significant role in the practice of witchcraft, offering a framework through which magical energies can be understood and harnessed. By exploring the connection between spatial dimensions and witchcraft, practitioners can deepen their understanding of the metaphysical realms they work with and enhance their magical abilities.
Incorporating dimensional concepts into magical practices allows witches to tap into the vastness and complexity of the multiverse. It involves recognizing that the physical world we perceive is just a small subset of a larger reality encompassing multiple dimensions. This expanded awareness enables witches to navigate and interact with different energetic planes and dimensions, facilitating more profound connections with spiritual forces. Rituals and spells focused on exploring and harnessing spatial dimensions serve as gateways for witches to access properties of space that most typically do not consider. For example, by perceiving and working with higher dimensions of space, witches can expand their perception and influence beyond the limitations of three-dimensional reality. This expanded awareness can enable them to sense subtle energies, communicate with spirits, and navigate intricate energetic networks.
Incorporating higher dimensions into the creation and maintenance of wards significantly enhances their potency and effectiveness. Wards, which are protective barriers or enchantments, can be fortified by utilizing the spatial dimensions to create complex and multi-layered structures. By extending the wards into higher dimensions, witches create a more intricate and resilient defense against negative energies, malicious entities, or unwanted intrusions. The incorporation of higher dimensions allows for a broader scope of protection, encompassing not only the physical realm, but also the spiritual and energetic planes. Furthermore, the utilization of higher dimensions in spirit and energy work opens up new avenues for witches to connect with and channel divine forces. By aligning their energy with the higher-dimensional aspects of the spiritual realms, witches can access heightened states of consciousness and tap into the abundant energies present in these dimensions. This can enhance their ability to communicate with spirits and manifest their intentions with greater clarity and potency. A lot of spirits exist across a multitude of higher and lower dimensions. Becoming aware of and working within these dimensions can give a practitioner a better understanding of how these entities experience their realities, granting the practitioner a sense of empathy for the spirits they interact with.
It is essential to note that incorporating dimensional concepts into witchcraft requires a balanced approach, grounded in knowledge and discernment. While working with spatial dimensions can be empowering and transformative, it is crucial to maintain an awareness of cognitive bias due to the lack of methods of confirmation. Practitioners should be mindful of the interconnectedness of all dimensions and the potential consequences of their actions. This includes practicing consent and respect when working with spirits or other entities from different realms and being aware of the potential impact on workings.
The Limitations and Challenges of Understanding Dimensions and Spiritual Planes
The study of dimensions and spiritual planes is not without its limitations and challenges. Skepticism and criticism from scientific and religious communities often arise when discussing these topics, as they may be perceived as esoteric or outside the realm of empirical observation. Scientific rigor demands empirical evidence and reproducibility, which can pose challenges when investigating phenomena associated with dimensions and spiritual planes that may transcend the physical world.
Subjectivity and interpretation also play a significant role in the understanding of spiritual experiences. Each individual's perception and interpretation of these experiences can vary, making it challenging to establish objective criteria for evaluating or measuring spiritual dimensions. Personal beliefs, cultural background, and individual experiences all contribute to the subjective nature of spiritual exploration.
Moreover, spiritual exploration is not without its potential dangers and pitfalls. It is essential for individuals to approach these realms with caution and discernment. Without proper guidance and understanding, one may become susceptible to misinformation, manipulation, or falling into the trap of self-deception. In the quest for spiritual enlightenment, individuals must exercise critical thinking and discernment to avoid being led astray by misleading ideologies or dogmas.
Furthermore, the quest for knowledge and further research is an ongoing process in the study of dimensions and spiritual planes. As our understanding of the universe and consciousness evolves, new insights and theories may emerge, challenging existing frameworks and expanding our understanding of these phenomena. The scientific community continues to explore and investigate these topics, utilizing diverse methodologies and interdisciplinary approaches to shed light on the nature of dimensions and spiritual planes.
However, it is crucial to be aware of the potential dangers of encountering fascist propaganda while researching spiritual planes. Theosophy, with its historical associations with white supremacy and fascist ideologies, has left a lasting impact on spiritual communities. Therefore, it is necessary to approach information originating from theosophical sources with caution, critically evaluating its content and context to avoid inadvertently perpetuating harmful ideologies or misinformation.
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#astral realm#astral travel#energy work#akashic records#beginner witch#spirit work#spirituality#spiritual awakening#informational post
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At Satan's Altar: A Collection of Prayers, Chants, Affirmations, Hymns, and Rituals by Marie RavenSoul
Title: At Satan's Altar: A Collection of Prayers, Chants, Affirmations, Hymns, and Rituals
Author: Marie RavenSoul
Publisher: In Satan's Honour Press
Publishing Date: February 28, 2018
ISBN-10: 1775262405
ISBN-13: 978-1775262404
Last post was a popular atheist text, so I suppose it's appropriate that now we move on to a popular theist text.
Marie RavenSoul is a modern Satanic author and youtuber, her channel can be found here. Her website, In Satan's Honour, can be found here. To my knowledge she is not affiliated with any group but her dedication in this book gives thanks to a "Brother Nero," who I believe may be the same Brother Nero who authored Satanism: A Beginner's Guide to the Religious Worship of Satan and Demons.
At Satan's Altar's subtitle is an apt summary of its content. RavenSoul is not here to provide moral counsel or wax poetic about philosophy, but to provide the tools of a theistic Satanic practice, including hymns, prayers, and rituals. The cover and interior also feature several illustrations, by artists Amanda MacNeil and Letitia Pfinder.
The book is divided into two sections, the first half being dedicated to devotional writings such as chants and prayers, and the second half being more instructional, revolving around rituals and practices the theistic Satanist might partake in. The instructional portion may prove useful to newcomers who have basic questions, such as how to pray, or how to structure a ritual. The Nine Days of Solitude Devotional may be difficult for anyone who is young or in a controlling environment, but could prove beneficial for more experienced Satanists who wish to do something more intensive than daily prayer or a one-off rite.
It is worth noting that RavenSoul calls Satan by other names, such as Lucifer and Baphomet, which some theistic Satanists may consider to be separate demons, rather than other names for Satan himself. She also refers to Satan as "father," a dynamic which may or may not ring true for other Satanists.
At Satan's Altar is available through Amazon and Barnes & Noble.
[DISCLAIMER: The Devil's Library is not affiliated with any of the previously mentioned groups or authors. It is an independent project by a single Satanist. Do not mistake my mentioning of an author or group as endorsement for their beliefs and practices.]
Click below for my personal thoughts on the book.
RavenSoul is a talented writer and her dedication to Satan is admirable. While her rather fatherly interpretation of Satan isn't for me personally, I'm sure those Satanists who do see our lord as a father figure would take great comfort in certain pieces of her writing.
However there is an aspect of the book which rubs me the wrong way personally, and that is the matter of cultural misappropriation. RavenSoul conflates Satan with religious figures from a couple of other faiths, namely Iblis and Tawûsî Melek (spelled Melek Ta'us in the book). While I can see why someone would compare these figures to Satan at first glance, my research tells me it is inaccurate and perhaps unwise to do so. Iblis comes from Islam, and while he is a fallen angel and the leader of devils, equating him with the Christian Satan is ignorant and potentially appropriation. More seriously, equating Tawûsî Melek, the peacock angel of the Yazidi religion, to Satan is directly racist and harmful. Yazidis have a history of persecution, and being wrongfully accused of being devil-worshipers is part of that history. Furthermore, Yazidism is very much closed to outsiders (one cannot even marry into the religion, but must be born into it), so making use of their religious figure for Satanic writings is rude and inconsiderate, at the very least. RavenSoul doesn't just make use of Tawûsî Melek's name and image, but references the Al Jilwah, a book which claims to hold authentic Yazidi scripture, but is of dubious origins.
In addition to these comparisons, RavenSoul also conflates Satan with gods like Pan and Set, and while those gods come from open religions, some may not enjoy such comparisons.
I know RavenSoul's work is popular amongst my fellow theists, and I never aim to tell my readers what to do in these review sections. These are my thoughts and only my thoughts, not instructions on where you should draw the line on which books you will or won't make use of.
#satanism#theistic satanism#at satan's altar#marie ravensoul#the devils library#tdl#bookshelf#my posts
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⋆⁺₊⋆ ☾⋆ lips parted like flowers
featuring: sakasaki natsume, shinkai kanata & sakuma ritsu.
summary: an offering of a frivolous kiss by an equally frivolous boy or the lengths they are willing to go through for a mere peck of sorts.
contrary to popular belief, natsume is not always as charming as he'd like others to believe. but of course, he's still certain in his fantasies (delusions) that he has you wrapped around his little finger. he does, he does not - your thoughts on the matter are unclear themselves at times. he can be a little sour on occasion but the pucker of that whimsical rose-colored mouth is still just as sweet as to you as any smile. even in an irritable dizzy haze, he manages to work his strange magic on you. be fairly warned though, he is not above wreaking mischief especially if he feels you have not been paying much attention to him as of late. a missing cardigan, the shoe rack in disarray, placing novels at the very back of the highest shelf he can find - the list of difficulties he can conjure up for you is endless. it's a wonder he calls you a little kitten at all when he's the real feline foe here. revoke his rights for a kiss and maybe he'll learn to behave himself. a trail of hazy stars and dusty comet tails later, you can't deny that the pleasing little sting of his lips against yours is worth all the trouble.
even when completely dry, you can still see water dripping off kanata in your mind's eye. pearly droplets cascading past his nose, his lashes, his hair - onto your hands. yes, he can be silly sometimes and lack a teensy bit of decorum but you cannot help but wonder all the same if he too was made out of sea foam. it does not help that he's rather shy too in certain aspects and even when he does voice his funny thoughts aloud, you have to spend some time trying to figure out if he meant this thing or that. yet it's all part of his steady charm and you're rather grateful for the fact that attempting to dissect his brain has led to you developing a startling amount of critical thinking skills. you press a little grateful kiss to his slender hand and feel pleased when he smiles gently. he then brushes his own lips against your cheek in a gesture that you are all too gleeful to receive. and after all these polite entreaties building up towards the real thing at last end, a quick peck on the mouth takes place. it lingers for just a brief moment but you can still hear all the little fishies swimming in the marrow of his bones pulsate longingly.
there is always a playful little bite to anything ritsu does. a lilting catch to his voice, a touch of a pout, the slightest flutter of lashes tangled in sleep... he loves to make you run about him in giddy circles till you're out of breath and your vision is reeling with his very smile. you find it a bit dear if not a little concerning. he naps quite an awful lot too and you often find yourself given the responsibility to rouse him from slumber. you've fallen victim to his adorable pleas and flushed apple cheeks more times than you'd like to count. he almost always ends up convincing you to shirk your obligations and what's worse is that he does it knowingly. one kiss burrowed into your palm and a single blink of his stupidly drowsy eyes later is enough to send you into shambles. if he feels especially generous, he'll even indulge to the whims of your trembling lips but only if you promise to leave him be after that.
notes: srry for not posting for almost *counts fingers* eight months?! the yuckiness that is life happened and it prevented me from my one true calling: writing about anime boys slash romanticized versions of the reader who would actually be pretty insufferable in real life lol. you just can't get away from these idol boys even if you tried huh... anyways!! i'm back now so pls talk to me! thanku ♡
#ensemble stars x reader#enstars x reader#natsume sakasaki x reader#kanata shinkai x reader#ritsu sakuma x reader
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Medical astrology
This article draws inspiration and is based on information found in two notable books: "Complete Practical Astrology" by Edward Lyndoe, published in 1938, and "Complete Herbal" by Nicholas Culpeper, dating back to 1652. It's not uncommon for individuals with a stellium in a specific zodiac sign to experience health issues associated with that sign more prominently compared to those with just one planet in that sign. The concentration of planetary energy in one sign can intensify the characteristics and tendencies associated with it, including health-related aspects.
The history behind it
In early-modern Europe, people held a deep fascination with the connection between celestial bodies and our well-being. This belief traced back to ancient notions of the Four Elements and the Four Humors, forming the basis of humoral theory in medicine. Originating with Hippocrates and evolving through Galen, this theory centered on balancing bodily fluids: blood, phlegm, black bile, and yellow bile. Men were seen as hot and dry, while women were considered cold and wet. Dietary choices and flavors were believed to influence humor balance.
These ancient ideas were intricately linked to Zodiac signs, seasons, cardinal directions, qualities, temperaments, and life stages. People believed that our health relied on maintaining a delicate equilibrium among these factors, shaping a complex system that demanded precise language to explain.
As interest in astrology grew in the 16th century, printed books, such as "Planetary Books" and "Folk Calendars," became popular sources of knowledge. These texts provided valuable insights, bridging the gap between celestial and earthly realms. They aimed to empower readers with wisdom about their place in the universe.
Aries: rules over the head, face, eyes, and the brain's cognitive functions, influencing the distribution of both mental and physical energy. This sign is associated with health concerns like headaches, fevers, neuralgia, eye issues, skin eruptions, inflammations, wounds, and accidents. Individuals born under Aries may have an abundance of energy, often exceeding their mental and emotional balance. Many health issues can be traced back to factors such as excessive physical exertion or bouts of intense anger. It's advisable for Aries individuals to prioritize maintaining a sense of balance and inner poise to promote their overall well-being.
Taurus: you should know that your sign is linked to certain areas of your body like the neck, ears, throat, larynx, and tonsils. These body parts might need a little extra care. Your sign is also associated with your ability to recover from health issues. However, it's important to be mindful of diseases that can specifically affect your throat. One thing to keep in mind is that Taurus individuals often have a love for indulgence and comfort, which can sometimes lead to health challenges. Additionally, your tendency to dwell on problems might make you more sensitive to minor health issues. So, remember to strike a balance and take good care of your well-being.
Gemini: For those born under the sign of Gemini, certain areas of the body require attention. Gemini influences the arms, shoulders, muscles, and bones, as well as the respiratory system, including the trachea and bronchi, and even the hands. People with this sign may be more prone to health issues like bronchial complaints, lung conditions such as pneumonia and pleurisy, nerve-related diseases, asthma, and anemia. These health challenges can often be traced back to nervous reactions and restlessness, which are characteristic of Gemini individuals.
Cancer: you have an influence on various parts of the body, including the stomach, breasts, solar plexus, diaphragm, and the upper portion of the liver. These areas are closely tied to matters of nutrition and digestion. Health issues that commonly afflict those born under Cancer often originate from emotional factors, triggered by mental irritants. These emotional disturbances can lead to nervous reactions and a general decrease in vitality. Interestingly, it's been suggested that more often than not, the health of a Cancerian is affected by external factors and the actions of others rather than self-inflicted harm. So, it's important for Cancer individuals to prioritize their emotional well-being and maintain a harmonious environment to support their overall health.
Leo: you have a special connection with the heart, spine, and vital forces carried by the blood. This makes you particularly susceptible to issues like heart troubles and poor circulation. Remember, many of these health challenges can be linked to overexertion or pushing yourself too hard. So, take good care of your energy levels and avoid unnecessary strain to keep your health in top shape.
Virgo: you have a unique connection with your own digestive system, which encompasses your intestines, alimentary canal, and the lower part of your liver. However, it's essential to recognize that individuals born under this sign might also be more prone to experiencing digestive issues and complaints, especially concerning the intestines. For you, these digestive troubles could occasionally stem from nervous causes, potentially leading to discomforts like acidity and other digestive challenges. It's a part of your unique astrological makeup, emphasizing the importance of taking extra care of your digestive well-being and managing any stress or anxiety that might contribute to these issues.
Libra: you are associated with specific areas of the body, including the kidneys, loins, appendix, lumbar vertebrae, and the skin. These are related to the body's liquid processes. Health challenges that often affect Virgos include kidney problems and issues related to the spine. These troubles are frequently linked to nervous exhaustion. To maintain your well-being, it's crucial for Virgos to manage stress and avoid situations that lead to nervous strain.
Scorpio: your zodiac sign governs several vital areas of the body, including the organs of reproduction, bladder, gallbladder, colon, and rectum. These parts are closely tied to procreation and reproduction. Health issues frequently associated with Scorpios involve the organs mentioned earlier. Problems may arise due to excessive worrying and the influence of others on the individual, which can break down resistance. To maintain good health, it's important for Scorpios to find ways to manage stress and emotional pressures effectively.
Sagittarius: you have a connection to certain body areas like the hips, thighs, and sciatic nerves. These parts are linked to your senses and how you perceive illnesses through your nerves. Health issues that Sagittarians often face include conditions like gout, rheumatism, and sciatica, as well as accidents. Restlessness can be a contributing factor to these problems, and individuals under this sign may have a propensity for accidents and injuries. Therefore, it's essential for Sagittarians to cultivate a sense of caution and mindfulness to prevent such mishaps and maintain their well-being.
Capricorn: you have an influence on the knees, joints, and hair. These are connected to processes related to preservation and conserving energy. Health issues commonly associated with Capricorns include skin complaints and diseases affecting the parts of the body influenced by this sign. Such ailments often have their origins in inhibitions. Therefore, it's important for Capricorns to focus on finding a balance between preserving energy and addressing any emotional or mental inhibitions that may impact their well-being.
Aquarius: your influence goes to the lower legs (calves and ankles), teeth, and blood circulation. These areas are interconnected with the body's circulation and eliminative processes. Health issues often associated with Aquarians include accidents affecting the ankles, as well as complaints related to this part of the body. Conditions such as varicose veins, blood poisoning, and certain nervous diseases may also be relevant. Many of these health challenges may have nervous causes, often tied to the highly sensitive nature of those born under the Aquarius sign. Therefore, maintaining emotional balance and managing stress is crucial for overall well-being.
Pisces your zodiac sign influences specific areas of the body, including the feet and toes. These are related to perspiration and the lymphatic processes within the body. Health challenges often associated with Pisceans include conditions like influenza, colds, and diseases accompanied by mucous discharges. Many of these complaints may have their origins in an overactive or overheated mind, possibly with perceived injuries from others. Additionally, individuals born under the Pisces sign tend to exhibit a high level of physical and mental sensitivity, which can contribute to various health issues. Therefore, it's important for Pisceans to manage stress, maintain emotional balance, and address any perceived injuries to promote overall well-being.
#astro observations#astro community#astro placements#astrology#all signs#astro notes#asteroid#astrologer#for you#zodiac placements#medical astrology
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acftl review (finally)
I give it a 3 ⭐️ (as much as it pains me) even then it’s only this high bc I love evajacks so much
so I was finally able to gather my thoughts into one post and while there were many things I enjoyed a few others didn’t sit right..
1. the whole story curse thing.. it makes sense that the story curse would twist things which is why some things were left unexplained but it doesn’t feel like it was done deliberately?? it just felt like stephanie genuinely didn’t know how to tie some things together.. like sure not every single thing needs an explanation but she emphasised certain things wayyy too much in the first two books for them to be completely ignored for example evajacks talking to each other in their minds. Even the broken heart scar wasn’t addressed again after like halfway through acftl
2. too much apollo.. sorry this is not even just me being biased or whatever like I do agree his pov helped explain the plot from a different perspective but he got wayyy more of a backstory and a conclusion to his character than jacks for a someone that wasn’t as present in the last 2 books.. and this was supposed to be jacks’ series kinda (ik it was evangelines too) but I feel like jacks got sidelined hard and that’s disappointing. It also didn’t help that whenever there was an intense scene between evajacks the pov would switch to apollo.. to be fair I think having 3 povs was just hard to execute in general
3. the kiss scene.. usually it would not be a big deal but it’s a big part of jacks character that he can’t kiss girls without killing them idk I thought him finally getting to kiss evangeline would be a lot more… grand? they barely got a page or any detail and then the next chapter was “once upon a time there was kissing and more kissing 🥰🥰” which was even more underwhelming. Even apollo and evangelines kiss scenes were longer and more detailed and they got multiple
4. the overall vibe of the 3rd book felt very different to the first two I couldn’t put my finger on it at first but I feel like it had something to do with the writing.. at some parts it felt familiar (like all the descriptions and the fairytale aspects) but others it just felt different?
5. during too many scenes it just felt like stephanie was rewriting tbona.. like I haven’t really seen anyone say this yet but a good chunk of the book was quotes from tbona which I feel took up a lot of unnecessary space and could’ve been used to develop other plots or characters? Literally someone that hasn’t read tbona could get a gist of what happened cause it’s all summarised in there 😭
6. the plot in general.. contrary to popular belief I don’t think this was that romance focused (as people claim as to why things weren’t explained) because I think stephanie incorporated more plot in here but it was just different to what we saw in the last books because previous characters (luc, marisol, tiberius, kristof) weren’t as present in this book and new characters plots and explanations were just thrown in.. not much felt connected
7. jacks’ backstory.. (going back to my second point) how he became a fate was really glossed over I feel and was only briefly mentioned but I just wanted more.. I do like the fact that he said he did it for chaos and I wish their friendship was delved into more because he literally turned to immortality because his friend would be alone. What about his parents? His friendship with Lyric? The merrywood three in general? His life when he was trapped in the card?
8. the first fox.. again wayy too significant to be missed out especially since jacks doesn’t really remember whether or not he had a thing for her and chaos said evangeline was similar to her.. how was there no link?
I definitely have more to add but for now my main takeaway is that while tbona was very hard to top I feel like acftl could’ve been so much more especially since it was set up so well.. I think so many people are disappointed because it doesn’t hold up as well for the last book in a series but I’m just glad evajacks got their happy ending 🫠
#acftl#evajacks#ouabh#acftl theories#evangeline fox#caraval#jacks x evangeline#tbona spoilers#the ballad of never after#jacks prince of hearts#a curse for true love#acftl spoilers#stephanie garber
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➠ Binding vow and invoking Fudō in Pure Land Buddhism:
I have been seeing posts on the nature of binding vows since Chapter 258, so I decided to share my notes on it in hopes they could be of use to a fellow reader.
Considering Akutami Gege’s consistency in incorporating practices and beliefs of different Buddhist schools into the storyline, personally, performing a binding vow reminds me of the process of invoking Fudō, as well as Amitābha’s ‘Primal Vow’. Here, I am specifically addressing the vows made with oneself as I believe they are significantly different from the vows made with others.
Fudō is an esoteric Buddhist deity for rebirth (from Pure Land worship). He was invoked by reciting his incantation as a deathbed practice to attain proper mindfulness at death allowing rebirth into the Pure Land, particularly Miroku’s Heaven, from the late Heian into the Kamakura period. He is a manifestation of the cosmic Buddha Dainichi (大日, Mahāvairocana) sent to assist Buddhist practitioners and to arrest those who would impede the Buddhist path. Fudō was most popular among the nobility for his efficacy in propitious birth, restoration of health and resurrection from death, and the subjugation of adversaries.
He is associated with the ‘Mantra of Compassionate Help’, which helps remove the hindrances at death. The mantra loosely translates as “Homage to the All-Encompassing Vajra, the Manifestation of Great Wrath. Eliminate [all hindrances].”
There are different instances of invoking Fudō. The first one is, invoking him for Miroku’s Heaven. It is related to Sōō, a monk of the Tendai school. According to the legend, while Sōō was performing ascetic practices before a waterfall on the Katsuragawa river, he prayed to Fudō to take him to Miroku’s Heaven. Fudō did indeed carry Sōō to Miroku’s Heaven, but when they arrived at the gate to the inner palace, Sōō was not allowed in because he could not yet recite the Lotus Sutra from memory. But when Sōō later recited the Lotus Sutra before the image of Fudō at his temple, he was able to gain entry.
The second one is invoking Fudō at Death. According to the court diary Chūyūki (中右記) by Fujiwara no Munetada (藤原宗忠), Emperor Horikawa on his death bed, “first chanted the titles of the larger Hannya and Lotus sutras, as well as the august name of the venerable Fudō; then chanted the august names of Śākya[muni] and [A]mida and faced the west.”
There is another story, according to which there was a sculpture of Fudō in Nara that used to appear to a nun at Higashiyama in Kyoto because she recited Fudō’s Mantra of Compassionate Help twenty-one times every day praying for proper mindfulness at death. In the time of death, when she became seriously ill, she put her hands together to form Fudō’s mudra and seated properly, her breath stopped, and without sickness, she came to the end with proper mindfulness. Here it is noteworthy that she was a member of the Ungoji nenbutsu group.
Additionally, it is useful to look into the concept of ‘Primal Vow or Fundamental Vow (本願, hongan)’, which in Japanese Pure Land Buddhism is the 18th vow that is part of a series of 48 vows that Amitābha made in the Infinite Life Sutra that in certain aspects (depending on the school) can be connected with invoking Fudō.
Nenbutsu is the invocation ‘namu amida butsu’ (南無阿弥陀仏, ‘I take my refuge in the Buddha Amitābha’) chanted in the hope of rebirth into Amida's Pure Land. It is important to note that Nenbutsu were not only directed to Amitābha but other Buddhas as well. Myōe, a famous priest of the Kegon school, is known to have invoked Fudō on his deathbed seeking rebirth in Miroku’s Heaven. It is said that at the time of Myōe’s death, “two or three times he intoned the invocation Namu Miroku Bosatsu, raising his hands in prayer and devoutly reciting the nenbutsu.”
The sutra reads: “If, when I attain Buddhahood, sentient beings in the lands of the ten quarters who sincerely and joyfully entrust themselves to me, desire to be born in my land, and call my Name, even ten times, should not be born there, may I not attain perfect Enlightenment.”
In the sutra, we see clearly what Amitābha’s ‘exchange’ is: “If they should not be born there, may I not attain perfect Enlightenment.” The vow is made at the risk of not being able to attain Enlightenment. Personally, it directly relates to the binding vow made with oneself in JJK: give up something, gain something; or, break the binding vow, lose what you have gained. Nanami is the easiest example to understand in this regard. His binding vow limits the amount of cursed energy he can access to about 80-90% while on the clock. Once his normal shift ends and he begins working overtime, Nanami’s cursed energy increases and by invoking Overtime, he is able to utilise 110-120% of his maximum power. He gains something while giving up something in exchange, and if he were to break the vow, he would lose what he has gained.
The practice itself is complex and depending on the accounts (and the schools) can be different, but personally, I can see how it could relate to the concept of binding vows made with oneself in JJK. In exchange for ‘devotion’, one can invoke the help of Fudō, who by landing his strength can help the invoker overcome the hindrance or the adversity they are facing. When summed up in this simple way, it does resonate with the concept of the binding vow made with oneself. Although the conditions naturally have to be completely different (i.e. what ‘devotion’ entails in JJK terms).
It might offer us a bit of perspective on why Sukuna seems the most efficient (well-versed) in performing the binding vow as well. We see from the examples I provided that invoking Fudō requires the knowledge of certain sutras and a long period of practice. Sukuna, coming from the Heian period (assuming that binding vows were more common like the practice of invoking Fudō that declined over time and is almost extinct in the modern day), would have been able to accumulate such knowledge and would be more familiar with the process of invoking it than your average modern-day sorcerer. He may as well have an understanding of ‘incantations’ that might otherwise not have survived the time.
Considering Akutami Gege’s incorporation of Buddhist practices, personally, it might not be too far off that he might have drawn inspiration from combining the two when creating the concept of binding vows.
#oh. well. this got huge again.#hopefully the point i wanted to make did not get lost in the info dump.#jjk spoilers#jjk#jujutsu kaisen#sukuna#ryomen sukuna#nanami kento#kento nanami#jjk meta
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So... where are we precisely on Vivziepop?
I don't want to make... assumptions of anybody's specific intent but the recent rumblings of discontent seems to follow certain patterns that I've become... a touch too familiar with.
Thing becomes popular to an unprecedented degree. Fanart, fan edits, maybe even full on fan music videos. Might be because the creator had made a name for themselves or they just got lucky right out the gate. Either or.
Thing grows in popularity in ways listed above and has its praises sung for a variety of reasons. Many of which may pertain to how certain social demographics are portrayed compared to elsewhere or whatever came before.
Thing had continuous installments that built on and craft a narrative for the characters portrayed with revelations galore. Certain aspects are revealed to be more... complicated.
Said aspects intrigue fans by having more than meets the eye while... souring others due to their first impressions, feeling their initial takes were "retconned" at best or "deficated upon" at worst.
This... disenchantment as it were results in alienated fans becoming more critical of the story and characters. Some of this revolves around certain types of characters being scrutinized in how they don't measure up to who the story appears to be focusing on most.
Something like queer representation is called into question when the female cast feels... off in retrospect.
The setting may be established as a less than morally conscious place to be and have the residing characters be hot messes as a result. However, some actions and choices of words may come across as a step too far lest it be a reflection of the writer/creator's beliefs.
This coalition of criticism may be met with pushback from those who dispute much of their points. Sometimes it's well worded and brings up new perspectives. Sometimes... it's largely could be just "Aw, shaddap!" on repeat.
Unfortunately, neither side (oh boy...) has a monopoly on assholes that put their emotions first and pleasantries second. The critical side will cite the stans as the reason why they exist and that "it's okay to be critical of the things you love." But some of the more overzealous members of that side may make you wonder, "So... where's the love?"
These overzealous members in question may often voice their discontent with various blanket statements and take counterpoints to that as being from stans who can’t take criticism. This often exhibits a mentality that because they’re calling out “the bad thing” and “the bad creator,” it’s end of discussion.
The creator may feel prodded to throw their hat into the ring not just over their creation but over what people try to construe them as purely based on their art. Sometimes they can come across as overtly defensive and averse to criticism themselves but with how much bile seem to be slung their way, it's never as clean cut.
Among the detractors who do care and want to approach in good faith, you have outrage merchants and outrage addicts that do in fact only want to stir up drama. Rather than help solve anything at all, the former wants to sell these stories TMZ style while the latter wants something to be angry at to feel in control of... anything. These muddy the waters for whomever might be hoping for a more productive discussion.
Adding fuel to this fire nobody actually asked for at those who have always disliked the creator be it for past works or as of recently due to word of mouth. Because a lot of their art revolving around what point number seven goes over, there's a very Anti-Shipper mentality of hating the "bad thing" on principle. Especially when the work is purposefully incorporating tasteless elements that this circle of "fans" feel should be avoided period.
I could go on and on but the point is that I've seen this dance routine more than a few times before where Popular Thing(TM) needs to be "taken down a peg and nobody can stop trying one up the other before it escalates.
Now more than ever with smaller indie projects like for animation. It's so hard to take certain people at their word at times because they either operate with a limited perspective or are willfully ignoring other points of view to feed their feeling of betrayal.
They comes of as jilted ex-partners who despise that the one that broke their heart's been able to move on. There's a sense of, "If I can't like it anymore, nobody can."
#vivsiepop#vivziepop#helluva boss#blitzø#helluva boss blitz#loona#stolas#moxie helluva boss#millie helluva boss#moxxie x millie#vivienne medrano#rwby#queer artist#queer art#indie animation#indie animated series#indie artist#hazbin hotel#a24#fanwank#fandom wank#fandom discourse#helluva boss drama#drama#fandom drama#fandom#fandom discussion#the cycle continues#the cycle repeats#the cycle of popularity
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Honestly, maybe if you were forthright on how the story gonna be like, then the anon(s) wouldn't be so mad. There where a bunch of asks about whether the MC would be competent but instead of giving a straight answer you went about what this story is and isn't without actually answering the questions. Sometimes you make it seem the mC is only relevant because the other characters love the MC, and that's the only merit the MC has. And instead of confirming witch it is, you keep talking about power fantasy like wanting the mc to have qualities other than love interest/siblingtTM is wish fulfillment.
I've scrolled down the whole blog, and don'tknow wha
I know you're probably saying this kindly, but I'm probably going to answer slightly more emotionally than usual. Since you scrolled down the whole blog, you should have a seen idea the kinds of asks I've been answer to and why I might colour my words the way I have been.
But before I do that, I would politely ask you to never try to justify a certain anon's anger or behavior towards me by saying I should do this or that- I'm not here to placate people. I am here to write and produce a story and game. I don't care if people agree with what I say or not, and honestly I don't care if people get angry, but lashing out in anger in THIS fashion is completely unacceptable.
I believe I have been forthright and I already give away more information about the story and plotline than I really should to temper audience expectations.
I zero in on the 'power fantasy' and 'wish fulfilment aspect' because because that's what, at the end of the day, what those anon(s) want. That's what a large majority of fiction sets out to be. Especially popular media. Wish fulfillment. And it's exactly what I say it is:
A power fantasy is wish fulfillment, empowerment and feelings of accomplishment, in all shapes and forms. It’s feeling you have worth, it’s feeling like you did something good or right. It feeling like your useful. It’s all the things that send the happy feelings to your brain. Being “competent” and “useful” can also falls into that category.
How can I not be more clear that the story is meant to be oppressive and disempowering etc?? That it's not going to be that?? I explain, justify with reasons within the MC background. I've already buildt up and fleshed out in the game why the MC is exactly way they are are the beginning of the game. AT THE BEGINNING OF THE GAME. But if larger thematic concepts are too broad, then I've already said the MC is the underdog. Do people know what that even is anymore? I feel like I'm losing my mind.
So I'll be clear on this once again. This story is not going to give you instant gratification, you might not get it all at. The whole narrative is meant to be bittersweet at best and painfully depressing at worse. That is in almost every aspect of the narrative, including the MC.
You're going be used. You're going to be lied to. You're be betrayed. You're gonna be humiliated. And sometimes, you're going to have to gritt your teeth and move on. The MC is going to have to do that. So does everyone else in this goddamn story.
I don't give concrete answer because it's clear what I deem is competent does not match what others deem competent. Because if I do, people are going to come back and be say "but you said this..., you said that..." No matter what I say or do, people have their own expectations and belief and it's probably not going to live up to those expectations because.
And that's too bad. I've already written enough in Chapter 1 that shows mages and soldier MC can defend themselves just fine. I've already written that the MC can have a fruitful future ahead of them with their conversation with the Empress. They aren't the best in their field- they can't. They're barely an adult when the story starts. Do you hear how crazy that sounds? Most of the cast the far is 5+ years older than the MC. They have wars and conflict to prove themselves. The MC has basically finished high school and can already land a pretty comfortable career in the Empire for the rest of their life already.
This story has magic and monsters and kings and queens, but write my characters with a more realistic foundation. A lot of popular narratives have MC that dominate the narrative and I've telling everyone again, that this is not going to happen. The MC is going to have fight tooth and nail, like everyone else. It's on equal grounds.
And I say that the MC is loved and is relevant for simply being alive and loved- its because they are. The whole narrative conflict of the game is a succession dispute with in the family, were all the current successors have equal claim to the throne- including the MC and their older brothers who love them. It doesn't matter if the MC is the strongest, most powerful, capable or if they're passive. This is a constant that cannot and will not change no matter what kind of MC people play.
Sorry, but I'm starting if i'm starting to loose my patience with you, Anon, cause it does seem like you sent this in good faith, but I am getting tired of trying to justify myself all the time, especially after dealing with a particularly obsessive individual, who would not accept any explanation I gave and instead called it 'bullshit plot armor', when it really is a different flavor of realism. So forgive me, if I stop being kind, polite or generous with my time for them. Furthermore, you didn't read the messages they sent to my inbox because I made the choice not make them public and delete them. I only have so much time in the day to write game and answer every ask in my inbox. I wish I could, but I cant. There's 45 messages in my inbox as I'm writing this, but I try to answer the ones I feel are relevant and time sensitive.
Now I've said my piece, I'm gonna go retreat into my writer's den. If people are upset with what I've written so far, then I implore them to go back to pinned post, read and decide for themselves if they're willing to come along for the ride. Because if you people come at me with the same questions, I will answer the same way. If you do not understand what I am saying, than perhaps you may need to see it at a different perspective.
#answered asks#tsr#I was literally going to answer an ask saying I think the blog is done being a warzone#but I'm wrong
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Hail Thyself: Satan is Not a Jealous God
I don’t know who needs to hear this right now, but here it goes: Satan is not a jealous god.
Based on my experiences, Satan is fine with people honoring and working with other deities, demons, spirits, and entities. Satan does not demand worship, praise, or offerings from people, including those of us who believe in him. In fact, if you’re the kind of person who connects with deities through offerings, Satan would prefer you give offerings when it suits you and when you feel moved to do so, regardless of whether that’s in a ritual or in the moment. Working with demons will familiarize you with Satan’s many aspects. It’s true that demons are capable of good and bad, creation and destruction, positivity and negativity, etc. Nonetheless, anyone can easily say that about MANY other deities, including and especially Yahweh himself.
The Bible describes Yahweh as jealous and vengeful when his demands aren’t fulfilled. In The Bible, Yahweh repeatedly gets jealous and angry when people worship other gods. So, it makes sense to me that many people who come from a Christian religious background feel hesitant to work with other spirits, practice witchcraft, engage in the occult, and otherwise pursue their spirituality in the way they feel drawn to beyond a biblical paradigm.
Thus, I want to encourage you to honor and commune with the deities, demons, and spirits you feel like reaching out to. So long as you treat them with love and respect, they will most likely do the same for you. Love and respect are also what you should expect in return from the beings you work with.
Keep in mind: I am a Theistic Satanist and Demonolatress. I believe that Satan is the demonic creator of the universe who inspirits the whole of creation, and all demons are aspects of this demonic divinity. I also believe that all deities are manifestations of Satan. I know for a fact I’m not the only one who holds these beliefs. To us, Satan is the whole, so it only makes sense to me that Satan wants humanity to be whole as well. Contrary to popular belief, many of us feel more whole when we maintain connections with multiple spiritual beings as opposed to just one. To me, telling someone they should only work with one god is like telling them they should only have one lover or one friend: While that might work for some of us, many people (myself included) prefer to have more than one partner and friend. That kind of cookie-cutter approach to spirituality is bound to go wrong when we live in a world full of individuals with complex, varying needs, ideas, and beliefs.
Each demon represents a different aspect of Satan that will teach us about ourselves, the world we live in, and perhaps even the universe at large if they feel inclined to do so. I believe that the relationship someone has with a specific demon is unique, yet that connection still ultimately comes from Satan. Demons know that they are greatly feared by many people (especially religious people), but they have repeatedly shown me that they are willing to help and empower those of us who approach them in good faith. I’ve also found that demons also appreciate any effort you expend on unlearning any toxic behaviors, beliefs, or notions rooted in religion that you might’ve picked up along the way in life. These efforts especially benefit those of us who strive to practice Theistic Satanism and Demonolatry.
Sometimes, you might not have the right chemistry or connection with certain beings, such as a particular demon, and that’s okay. A demon/spirit/deity rejecting you isn’t all that bad when there are plenty of others who’d love to be involved with you and your practice. Just remember that any spirit who works against your best interest isn’t your ally. If a spirit is actively creating any problems in your life, you should banish it immediately. I’ve seen a lot of newcomers get caught up in the drama of getting vivid manifestations from malicious/evil spirits, all while those spirits continue to wreak total havoc in their lives. There is no need to put up with that! You can experience the same intense synchronicities, manifestations, and results from working with spiritual beings that respect you and your well-being.
I realize that many people, including myself, come to Theistic Satanism and Demonolatry with a background that contains some degree of involvement with at least one of the Abrahamic religions (Judaism, Christianity, and Islam). As for myself, before I began practicing witchcraft and paganism in my preteen years, I held the same general Christian beliefs that my parents had. And still, after about 20 years of practicing, I sometimes find my worldly and spiritual behavior being impacted by the toxic elements of Christianity I internalized before I became cognizant enough to resist it. Even though I began moving away from Christianity early on in my life, I definitely see how being socialized into a certain religion during childhood can have long-lasting effects on how you interact with spirituality and religion in the future.
So, I wanted to remind whoever needs to hear it: You are not a bad practitioner for dealing with the toxicity handed to you by the Christianity you internalized early on in life. You are not a bad practitioner if you’re still dealing with the internalized religious toxicity you learned so long ago, after all of these years. There is a reason why sociologists consider religion to be an entire agent of socialization: Its effects are very real and influential in our development. It only makes sense that the beliefs you were socialized to hold early on would have some kind of impact on you later on. Fortunately, now that we are more aware of who we are, what we want out of life, and our spirituality, we can finally heal and grow from the ashes of the flames that burned us.
Good luck with exploring and expanding upon your spirituality! After celebrating the Rite of Belial, it only makes sense that we take the time to appreciate new beginnings, initiation, and deeper meanings. It makes even more sense to embrace new beginnings as a new year begins. I hope you get to enjoy this special time of the year as much as I do!
In case this reaches you late: Happy New Year’s Eve and Happy New Year! Hail Satan!🤘
- Pearl Satanachia 🌕
#satan is not a jealous god#theistic satanism#demonolatry#pearl satanachia#demons#deities#dark pagan#dark paganism#witchcraft#witchblr#witches of tumblr#pagan#paganblr#pagans of tumblr#satanic witch#occult#spiritual satanism#spirituality#left hand path#baphomet#hail satan#satanic#gods#spirits#rite to belial
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