Star Nations Magazine March 2021 Issue 94

S tar N ations

Yo u r B r i d g e t o A n c i e n t a n d M o d e r n S p i r i t u a l I n f o r m a t i o n

Ode to Spring Weathering the Storms of Lıfe GRATITUDE ALL YEAR

Spring for Hope March 2021 | Issue 94 Credit: freepik .com

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LI F E W is d om Q u o t es

Contents Featured Articles On Our Cover: Ode to Spring Ortrun Franklin (The Mystery School)

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When she thinks of Spring, music runs through Ortrun's mind. From Ludwig van Beethoven’s Symphony No. 6, featured in Walt Disney’s animated film Fantasia to Igor Stravinsky’s musical score for the ballet Rites of Spring, these pieces bring to mind the Old Ways and their pagan rites. Read and learn where our our traditions originated. Ortrun has included a meditation for you.

10 LIFE Wisdom Quotes

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Ed Langan (LIFE Wisdom)

Join Ed as he presents a deeper dive into LIFE Wisdom quotes provided by the Guides. Learn his ten essential quotes, along with their deeper explorations. As you venture into 2021, know that in every moment, you get to decide where to put your focus and what it all means.

Weathering the Storms of Life Julie Hedges (Cosmic Conversations)

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Are you a person who has a sensitive internal barometer? When the atmospheric pressure changes, do you feel extra pressure in your face and head? Does your Body sense weather changes and approaching storms? Do you experience bone or joint pain when the air pressure changes? Julie can help ease that transition.

Gratitude All Year Minnie Kansman (Nature Connections)

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Minnie brings us the Thanksgiving Address—an ancient message of peace and appreciation for the Earth—used to open and close gatherings, meetings, and ceremonies. Also called The Words that Come Before all Else, its purpose is to bring people together with One Mind, from a place of gratitude, in order to tend to specific matters at hand.

Spring for Hope Yvette Neshi Lokotz (The Sacred Hoop)

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Life is all about change. Energy is constantly flowing and changing. When we consider nature, we can see a common thread between the seasons—the thread of change through all things. The Spring Equinox heralds new beginnings, dawn, balance, and hope. Join Neshi as she looks forward to new beginnings.

Credit: ESA/Hubble & NASA | Robert Frost Photo via WikiCommons Public Domain

Star Nations Magazine • March 2021 • 2

Contents Monthly Columns From the Editor: Neshi Lokotz

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The Witch's Cauldron

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Nourishing Body & Soul

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The Mystery School

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LIFE Wisdom

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Communicating with Sacred Animals

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Cosmic Conversations

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Nature Connections

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Sacred Masculine

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The Sacred Hoop

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Star Nations Magazine • March 2021 • 3

Editorial

Pause for New Beginnings

By Yvette Neshi Lokotz

The approaching energy of the Spring Equinox is within our awareness. Can you feel the energy of new beginnings?

For decades I have spent the Winter Equinox reflecting on the previous months to garner the memories of lessons learned, deciding what to release to make room for the new, and begin dreaming about what I would like to create in the new year. Well, we are stepping through the doorway into the sprouting of something new for 2021.

I am in a unique position. I am in the betwixt and between. Spirit helped in deciding what to release.

When both our Moms Walked On, our old life ended. We have been caretaking our Moms for two decades. When I realized what was released, I felt like I was standing on crumbling ground. Everything around me was changing while I stood still.

As many of you know, my husband, Paul, and I had huge life changes late in 2020. Both of our Moms Walked On, and Paul retired. Just one of these changes has huge energy, let alone experiencing three huge changes.

An ancient Celtic proverb, "The betwixt and between is where the magic is," fills me with both hope and optimism mixed with a wee bit of anxiety. I was so immersed in caregiving that I did not take the time to consciously intend what to create in the new year or new life.

Honestly, I am just now beginning to consider the solstice energies. I entered my mother's final three months of life depleted in my bodies (physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual). After her death and then dispersing her belongings, I finalized her financial records. I then took time to slowly deep clean her bedroom and sitting room. I need to rest again.

Star Nations Magazine • March 2021 • 4

Paul and I are taking time to rest, complete the home repairs we put off, and play with Georgie. We are grieving and mourning. We spend time talking about our recent experiences as we slowly begin to consider what it means to be free.

Editorial

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The betwixt and between is where the magic is.

The Spring Equinox energy is about new beginnings, balance, freshness, and hope. We can tap into that energy as we begin to dream the next experience. I have to admit, daydreaming right now is the best use of my energy.

I am rebuilding my strength and my health so that I can enjoy whatever it is we create—our new life, our new world. As we pause to replenish, I realize this time is also a plateau. The plateau of integrating what we experienced, learned, and remembered.

I made a bold decision recently. Due to my fatigue level, I found that my endurance for working or holding energy is diminished. Holding the energy container for Star Nations Organization is big.

The energy field of the organization is enormous.

I decided to place much of Star Nations services on pause or hold for several months. I need time to rebuild, recalibrate, and re-evaluate. I know this decision comes as a shock to some community members, yet there is also a deep understanding of why I need time for true self-care.

This March 2021, Issue 94 will be the last issue published for a few months. The Facebook live stream shows will be on pause as well. I will continue to live

stream my show, Communications from Home, but less frequently. The Academy will be on pause for all of 2021. I will continue my work in supporting the Star Nations Publishing authors and their books.

This pause for Star Nations will give me the space to create the next experiences and services we offer. As I become healthier and rested, I can devote energy toward Star Nations' co-creation and the next part of Paul's and my journey together.

I appreciate and am grateful for Star Nations community members understanding and patience as we pause our current services. We still have the past magazine issues available and recorded live stream shows available.

This pause is not the end of Star Nations but a pause before recalibrated, upgraded, Star Nations Organization's services to our soul growth. As the founder, CEO, and friend, I will meet you in the new world.

This issue's cover is all about new beginnings, the Spring Equinox, and Spring. Please enjoy your time with us as the contributing writers share their experience, knowledge, and wisdom with you.

We wish you all a Happy Spring Equinox!

Jage Nagonan (Potawatomi for All My Relatives), Neshi

Star Nations Magazine • March 2021 • 5

S tar N ations Yo u r B r i d g e t o A n c i e n t a n d M o d e r n S p i r i t u a l I n f o r m a t i o n

MORE INFO:

The Witch’s Cauldron By Adriane Campbell

Spring’s Rebirthing Enchantment The seasons shift through, moving along, as we feel the shift in the air and energy. The elements warming or cooling throughout our surroundings. These phases are very much alive, just as you or me. It has a collective energy which we all feel, as well as it’s personal power. We use this energy in our daily healing practices.

The Spring is upon us and we watch as its hands performs magic on the Earth; we can use this energy for our own rebirthing.

Spring is a time of rebirth. A time when the energy that began during the Winter Solstice has been enhanced. Cloaking our environment in the warmth and morning dew to birth in green.

Allowing what was planted in the previous time to grow, new blooms appear and we see our first signs of Spring in nature.

We ask Spring to join us when we are practicing our own healing and daily rituals within this time for our garden to continue to flourish — to assist us in our new growth, and to keep our energy nourished in this time. We call upon Spring to ground us and

sustain a balanced root chakra, allowing our roots to grow deeper, so that we can birth into the new, protected, and strong.

Our inner fire blazes strongly through the rays of the Spring sun, igniting our visions, our passions, and our dreams. It also allows an added magic of enhancement to our inner garden of rebirth. This is the magic we are offered in this season to use whenever we wish without question. Spring openly shares its energy with us to assist our healing and journey. We can always feel the season, but we can also utilize its open invitation to work with it when we choose.

Credit:

We also go through this phase as we travel along with the medicine wheel, we feel the rebirth. The

planted ideas and energy that we have put into fruition are blossoming, appearing to us though the roots have already been planted.

We are rebirthing into a new stage of our truth. We can ask for Spring to invoke our energy even further, feeling it’s magic enhance our spell of life as we continue to walk down our trail.

Star Nations Magazine • March 2021 • 7

The Witch’s Cauldron

Earth Day Ceremonial Magic ½ ounce sandalwood resin 2 TBSP dried rosemary 2 TBSP dried sage 3 TBSP dried pink roses I do recommend using a mortar and pestle to crush and combine the herbal blend. If you do not have one any mixing bowl will do, but please keep in mind that the resin incense mixture will become sticky.

Now clear your mind and take a deep breath.

Imagine your feet planting into the fresh birthing grass — you can feel the growth tickling the bottoms of your feet. Feel the rebirth of life and the full energy of Spring. Welcome Spring into this time and thank Spring for its energy and presence. Light your green candle. Begin adding your herbs into your mixing bowl. Once they have all been added, begin blending them as one. Add a small amount to your incense burner and allow it to slowly burn.

As the smoke waifs, visualize that the incense smoke is extending all throughout and around Earth. It is cleansing and providing peace to this planet, to the season, to the time we are in. Once the incense has burned you can add more, or you can complete the ritual. This is your spell. Thank Spring, yourself, and all the herbs used. Snuff out your candle and feel the Credit:

magic you conjured.

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The Witch’s Cauldron

With so much use of Spring’s enchantment, I typically like to have my offerings on its fresh earth that has been birthed. It is a magical time to give thanks and pay special attention to our time. Some people choose to go for a nature walk and acknowledge the beauty and wisdom. I use this time to do a spell which honors the magic of Spring to extend to everything that exists on this planet as well, from every drop of water to every tree. It is a simple ritual which has so much power. You can do this ceremony at home or out in nature. Remember that you hold your own magic and personal intention is the most powerful tool in magic. Drop into your heart and always do what feels right for you. The “Rebirth of Spring” ceremony is an incense ritual. I combine herbs that represent all the elements that are blessed unto us. We will include items for Earth, water, fire, and air.

Roses represent the element of water, which are also connected to Aphrodite and the Egyptian Goddess Isis. Roses bring forth love, compassion, magic, and wisdom. In alchemy practices, the rose represents a point of unity between the cosmos and life. The

white rose is connected to the feminine side and the red rose is connected to the masculine side.

For this particular ritual we will be using pink roses which are a balance of both the feminine and masculine, birthing our love and appreciation.

sandalwood resin. Resins are highly aromatic and have been used in healing ceremonial incense blends for thousands of years. I always try to use a tree resin in every incense blend that I create. Tree resins are created by beautiful tree magic.

For the fire element we will add rosemary which is ruled by the sun. It is sacred specifically to the Virgin Mary and Aphrodite. This herb also carries many magical attributes such as love, purification, and protection. It attracts healing energy and removes negative or stagnant energies from a space, igniting the Spring warmth.

When a tree is damaged it seeps resin into the area to protect it from intruders. The resin hardens in time much like a scab when we become hurt to allow the area to heal. This is such a powerful protecting tool to utilize in magic and is yet another example of how we are no different from a tree.

Sandalwood is our herb used for air, to honor the fresh of Spring.

Sandalwood magic originated in India where it was utilized as a Holy incense. People observed that the sandalwood trees were never invaded by termites, so it quickly became known as the protective wood. This herb is considered to be very highly vibrational and devotional. In ritual practices it will create and bring forth peace, purification, and relaxation.

In this particular ritual incense blend we will be using

For this spell we will also be using sage. In Roman times, sage was even gathered in a ritual way. This herb carries a feeling of healing and preserving. It is a highly protective herb which also carries purification energies. Sage dispels stagnant energy and transmutes the negative qualities before releasing it back to the Earth; it protects the blooms of Spring that are developing and birthing.

So now we have our herbal elements. Let the magic begin!  Have an enchanted Spring!

Adriane

Adriane Campbell

is a solitary witch who works with plant spirits and herbs, believing everyone and everything is very much alive—a single blade of grass is just as alive as we are. Adriane uses the energies of living plants to invoke their magic. She creates ceremonial items and concoctions to aid spiritual growth, and has a passion for teaching individuals how to do their own spell work as she understands the powerful magic of personal intention. She doesn’t categorize herself as a particular type of witch, but rather embraces every aspect of herself and the Craft. She welcomes everyone to free their inner witch and surf their water of truth.

K www.moonstonedalchemy.com | @ moonstonedalchemy@gmail.com

Star Nations Magazine • March 2021 • 9

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Different ways to purchase and read our magazine!

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Nourishing Body & Soul

by Sharon Rosenblum

Spring Filled with Life

As I think of Spring, I immediately see flowers beginning to bloom, sunny skies, I hear the birds singing, and the awakening of all life on the planet. It is a wonderful time! Spring is my favorite season. This year, I also see a lot of hope.

Spring is time for change, a new beginning. We need to care for all life, both human and all biological forms of life. We are here to care for the planet and all the life forms that live here.

Spring is the perfect time to consider what flowers to plant in our gardens and maybe create a special butterfly garden! Flowers bring joy to everyone’s life. The fragrance is soothing and the colors can be spectacular!

Spring is also the perfect time to venture back outdoors and explore nature. Take in a forest bathing adventure and become one with the wisdom of the trees (Minnie Kansman is a great resource!).

Walk along a beach and breathe in the ocean air, or perhaps a garden tour to smell those beautiful flowers! Maybe a hike up a mountain or even around your town.

Get out and feel the energy of Mother Earth, walk with the intention of sharing your Chi (energy) with the earth, with every step you take. I promise, you will feel better and lighter as a result of the experience. Share your love and even your woes with the earth as you walk and notice how much better you feel afterwards – it is amazing!

A camping trip or a moonlight walk is also very uplifting. One needs a clear night sky, if you have that, look up at all the stars in the sky and feel the vastness of the universe. I love to see how many constellations I can find in the night sky. It helps to be in an area with little to zero light pollution to be able to see the millions of stars and planets in the night sky.

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Nourishing Body & Soul

A picnic is another way to get out in nature. My favorite spot is by the lake or the ocean, if I am visiting the coast. There is a park near where I live along Lake Michigan where the dragonflies are in abundance. Every time I go there, they fly all around me as if they are checking me out! Their presence fills me with peace. I enjoy eating my lunch with the dragonflies.

I encourage you to partake of the joy of Spring and nature that is all around us!

In honor of Spring, I would like to share with you a delicious recipe that is perfect to take on walks in nature or even on a picnic. It is a favorite treat of the Northeast.

The recipe I have selected to share with you a New England Classic — the Whoopie Pie! Carrot cake is my husband’s favorite — it feels like a springtime flavor. Enjoy!

Wishing you a very Happy Spring!

Sharon

Sharon Rosenblum

Credit: Sharon Rosenblum

adopted a Gluten Free and Whole Food lifestyle and is adept at modifying recipes to suit different dietary needs. A healthy approach to eating also serves her as an Empath and Intuitive. Eating “clean” foods brings clarity when working with her guides and spirit. Her joints are no longer achy or sore.

Sharon is an Assistant Editor on our Star Nations Magazine Executive Staff and has her own editing business—The Feathering Quill. | f FeatheringQuillEdits

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Nourishing Body & Soul

GF CARROT CAKE WHOOPIE PIES Ingredients For the cakes 1-1/4 cups All-purpose gluten-free flour (I use Cup for Cup, or Bob’s 1 to 1) 1/2 teaspoon xanthan gum (omit if your blend already contains it) 1/2 teaspoon baking powder 1/4 teaspoon baking soda 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar 1-1/3 cups freshly grated carrots (about 2 medium carrots) Instructions • Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line rimmed baking sheets with parchment paper and set them aside.

• In a large bowl, place the flour, xanthan gum (if your flour does not already have it), baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg and brown sugar and whisk until well-­ combined, making sure to work out any lumps in the brown sugar. Add the grated carrots and mix to combine. Add the butter, shortening, vanilla, egg and milk, and mix until just combined. The batter should be smooth and thick, but soft.

• With a soup spoon drop or make “rounds” about 2-inches in diameter about 1-1/2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.

With wet fingers smooth and flatten the rounds until they are about 2-1/2 inches in diameter and about 1/2-inch thick. Repeat with the remaining batter.

• Place the baking sheet in the center of the preheated oven and bake until the cakes are very lightly golden brown all over, and the center springs back when pressed lightly with your finger (around 12 minutes). Remove from

2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened and cooled 2 tablespoons vegetable shortening, room temperature (I use “Spectrum” brand) 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract 1 large egg at room temperature, beaten 1/2 cup milk, at room temperature For the filling 6 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature 1-1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar 1/8 teaspoon kosher salt 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg the oven and allow to cool completely on the baking sheet.

• While the cakes are cooling, make the filling.

In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, place the butter and cream cheese. Mix on medium-high speed until light and fluffy. Add the confectioners’ sugar, salt, and nutmeg. Mix until all of the sugar is incorporated, and the filling has thickened.

• Once the pies are completely cool, place them in pairs of similar shape and size. Place the filling in a clean pastry bag fitted with a clean large, plain tip, and pipe filling onto the underside of one pie of each pair, stopping just short of the edge of the pie. Cover the filling with the other pie of the pair and press down gently to force the filling to the edge of the pie. Chill until the filling is firm. Serve slightly chilled.

Note: If you do not have a pastry bag you can add the filling with a spoon or knife.

I often use a spoon to place a dollop on the underside of one pie, then use the back side of the spoon to spread it out.

Another trick is to fill a baggie with the filling, cut off the corner, and pipe out the filling.)

Star Nations Magazine • March 2021 • 13

The Mystery School

By Ortrun Franklin

Ode to Spring

When I think of Spring, Ludwig van Beethoven’s Symphony No. 6 or Pastoral Symphony runs through my mind. The composition was used in Walt Disney’s animated film Fantasia.

One of my favorite memories is watching it over and over again with my grandchildren.

Pastoral Beethoven’s Symphony musical seg-

ment takes place in a mythical pastoral garden. It begins with cupids pulling aside the night sky. Then, the sun rises. Birds begin to chirp, flowers are opening their petals, centaurs and centauresses (centaur ides), mermaids and mermen are joining to joyfully walk and dance together. When, suddenly, a thunderstorm causes them to take shelter underneath the trees.

This scene, along with its flowing music, takes my thoughts to the beginning of Spring. It reminds me of the dark nights of winter waning with daylight, starting to increase.

Seedlings begin pushing through the soil reaching for the sun. The plantings flow back and forth in a rhythmic dance. Different than the mythical characters running for shelter at the eruption of the thunderstorm, the plantings cheerfully soak up the rain and dance with

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joy knowing that it will help them grow and become stronger and more vital.

The segment continues with the thunder and lightning abruptly stopping. The sun comes up; everyone emerges from their safe shelters. They look to the sky and see the Sun God/Goddess in his/her chariot riding off beyond the clouds.

The Mystery School

Spring has sprung. It is the time of year in which the Spring Equinox occurs and daylight starts increasing. It reminds me of Light always returning to Earth.

Igor Stravinsky’s musical score for the ballet Rites of Spring or Sacred Spring (Le Sacre du printemps) specifically wrote this piece about Russia’s Old Ways and their pagan rites. The subtitle itself, Pictures of Pagan Russia in Two Parts, supports this. In the ballet, dancers portray primitive life with the dancers depicting various primitive rituals and customs while celebrating the advent of Spring.

Ancient Religions celebrated the turn of the season by having solar festivals. Similar to Stravinsky’s depiction in his ballet, the Druids, Celts, Vikings and those of the Neolithic Irish descent chose a woman and man to act out the roles of the Spring God and Goddess; they played out a courtship and together they

planted seeds. At these festivals, eggs were symbolic of rebirth and the beginning of new life, and hares represented the Goddess of Fertility. The Spring Festival is called Ostara and is named after the German or Teutonic Goddess Eostre, also known as Ostra.

Modern Pagans continue to celebrate Spring by attributing the changes going on in the world to the powers of the God/ Goddess. At the time of the Spring Equinox they are often portrayed as The Green Man and Mother Earth. Green Man is said to remain in Mother Earth's womb during Winter and in Spring begins his growth.

The Spring Equinox was of great importance to the ancient cultures. Many of their monumental structures were built to capture the sun during this special event.

This evidence can be found in numerous locations around Earth.

For instance:

The large Neolithic cairn temples of Scotland. The 100 ft passage lets in the sun to fully light up its chambers on the morning of the Spring Equinox.

In Egypt, the sun sets on the shoulder of the Sphinx (halfman, half-lion).

At the Step Pyramid of Chichen Itza, when the sun begins its way towards the horizon, shadows begin to appear on the faces of the main pyramid. But the grandest show occurs when the sun sets. Seven triangular shadows, resembling the body of a snake project on the north side of the building.

Symbolically, it represents Kukulkan, the feathered serpent deity overseeing agriculture of the Mayan people, coming to fertilize the earth for a good harvest.

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The Mystery School

Easter or Ostern (German) is celebrated by modern day Christians.

It is the holiday which represents Jesus’ Resurrection. It is celebrated by special church services, music, candlelight, flowers and ringing of the church bells. Many view it as the greatest feast day of the church calendar.

At the onset of Christianity, old traditions became intertwined with Roman Catholicism. Ingrained ancient customs, such as eggs representing new life, became symbolic of Jesus’ Resurrection.

Easter is a joyful season when everything comes anew: life, birth and rebirth. Ranger Eliza of www. facebook.com/OlympicNPS/ posts says:

”I like the symbolism of this moment, with the sun shining equally on both halves of the Earth, for our common dreams, vulnerabilities, love for our families, and striving to care for one another.”

On a deeper spiritual level, the Spring Equinox represents the journey of the Sun around the Universe. It can personally represent the struggles between night and day, dark and light, death and life, evil and good.

At the moment when night and day are equal, time stands still.

At this time, new choices can be made. As daylight increases, the

Star Nations Magazine • March 2021 • 16

new choices bask more and more in Light. You can become the Illumined One. The Spring Equinox brings new life, new beginnings. It is the time for us to explore our inner most feelings, plant fresh seeds, seek new paths and begin anew.

To assist you in experiencing of Beginning Anew, I have prepared a guided meditation/visualization for you. Make yourself comfortable, become still…. * Remember that being in the meditative state slows down your reflexes. It is advised that you do not listen to the meditation while driving or performing services where acute attention is required.

The Mystery School

References: www.wikipedia.org www.Ireland-calling.com www.DruidNetwork.org www.facebook.com/ OlympicNPS/posts

Check out Ortrun’s book: Key of Life

Snap this QR Code to access the meditation.

Ortrun Franklin

is a columnist for Star Nations Magazine.

She is the co-host of the live stream show “Living in Two Worlds” which focuses on the connecting the physical world with the spiritual world. It airs the last Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. CT. K www.ourspiritualascension.com | @ Ortrun71@aol.com | f Living in Two Worlds

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LIFE Wisdom with Ed Langan

10 LIFE Wisdom

Quotes for 2021

A while back I came across an article about inspiring quotes to help people in these challenging times.

In the spirit of moving forward into 2021, it’s also a great time to take a deeper dive into LIFE Wisdom quotes provided by the Guides. Here are ten essential LIFE Wisdom quotes, along with deep explorations from the Guides:

“To allow more, do more of what you love.”

Remember that everything is based on vibration.

When you are doing what you love, your vibration is very high. The higher your vibration is, the more you are in alignment with your soul.

Alignment is the key to allowing. When you’re feeling happy, eager, or joyful, you are attracting more of those emotions and you’re allowing everything that you’ve been asking for to flow to you. You are in the optimum state for receiving.

“You live what you believe about everything.”

“To have more good in your life, notice and focus on the good that you already have.”

You are the creator of your life and the creator of your reality. You become the creator by focusing on what you have and what you want. Whatever you’re focused on, you’re asking for more of that.

There are things in your life that are going well. There are things in your life that are good. To attract more of those, put your focus there.

“The universe always says yes.”

You have way more control over your life than you realize. Your mindset is more than just what you believe – it’s also how you live. When you change your beliefs, everything changes.

This statement can be surprising to some people, especially if you’ve been taught that life is some sort of a test where you have to prove your worth. None of that is true. The universe always says yes – you are the only one that says no. You say no based on your beliefs.

Even something that you consider a small change has a ripple effect into every aspect of your life. Your beliefs are not hard to shift unless you believe that they are. That’s how much power, choice, and control you have in your life.

Remember that you live what you believe, whether or not it’s true. The good news here is that you don’t have to convince the universe that you’re worthy. We know that you are! You just have to shift your beliefs to remember that you’re worthy of what you desire.

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LIFE Wisdom

“Disappointment can only last as long as you focus on it.”

In your life, you are going to have some disappointments. That doesn’t mean that the universe has said no. It simply means that you are not yet in alignment with what you want.

Disappointment can be a powerful tool for focus. It creates a much stronger desire within you. How are you going to focus on your disappointments? You can stay in the feeling of disappointment as long as you want, but we wouldn’t stay there long.

“Today we want to remind you that you are enough!”

“Love starts with self-love.”

To feel more love in your life, be more loving to yourself. You are the only one that’s with you for your entire life. You are the one who hears everything you say to yourself. Is that dialogue loving and supportive?

The more loving you are to yourself, the more love you will see reflected back to you. The universe and all that is, including us, loves you unconditionally.

There is nothing you can do that will stop that love from flowing to you.

The only love that you can block is the love you give yourself. Take a cue from us – there is nothing you have done that warrants you to stop loving yourself. Nothing!

You are the embodiment of love. Love is the energy that permeates the universe. It is also the creative force of your universe. You are a living, breathing miracle – a unique expression of love.

When you understand this, you realize that you do not have to prove anything to anyone. You are perfect exactly as you are right now in this moment.

There’s nothing that you should do. You are enough and you are worthy just as you are.

“When you’re in alignment with your essence, you are in your power.”

Alignment is being in the same vibration as your soul, or your essence. Love is your essence, and love is a state of well-being. You’ll know when you are in alignment with your essence by how you feel.

When you feel happy, joyful, eager, playful, inspired, and any other good feeling, you are in alignment with your essence. That’s when you are more powerful than most people can imagine.

“Joy is your natural state.”

When we were babies, we were all joyful, happy little beings. All babies can do is eat, sleep, and poop, and they are still happy. They can’t walk or talk, and still they are happy. This is because joy is your natural state.

As you grow older, you become more focused on growth and learning, and some of you forget to stay in this joy. As we embark on a new moment, a new day, and a new year, we want you to remember that joy is your natural state.

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LIFE Wisdom

“Take stock of how far you’ve come.”

You are doing extremely well. You should be proud of how far you’ve come. Life is not a test. It can even be an adventure if you let it.

We are always proud of you. We know how far you’ve come. We see all the changes you make as you move through your life, and we love every single one of them.

Take a few moments today to notice how far you’ve come. Feel the appreciation we feel for you.

Remember that we are all in this together. We love doing our part and we love that you are doing yours.

As you begin anew into 2021, know that in every moment, you get to decide where to put your focus and what it all means to you. Will it be another arduous year, or will it be a continuation of a great adventure?

You get to choose.

The guides want you to know that you’re worthy.

Marj and I (and the Guides) wish you all a happy, healthy, and prosperous new year. May your heart be full of love.

Until next time.

Light and Love,

Ed Ed Langan

is a psychic channel for ascended masters, a law of attraction expert, and a spiritual teacher. He feels people’s energy and helps them shift that energy to allow: More Money, Finding A Soulmate, Improved Relationships, Finding Your Life’s Purpose, & Business Growth Join Ed on the second Thursday each month at 4pm EST for his Star Nations live stream show: LIFE Wisdom with Ed Langan and check out his book, Creating With The Law of Attraction: 10 Principles That Will Change Your Life, and his CD, Meditations for Improved Well Being.

K www.edwardlangan.com | f LIFE Wisdom with Ed Langan

Star Nations Magazine • March 2021 • 20

Podcasts available on iTunes!

Communicating with Sacred Animals

by Leslie Cirinesi

A Time for Change

Way back in August of 2015, I wrote my very first article for Star Nations Magazine. I was granted a section of the magazine called “Communicating with Sacred Animals”. As you can imagine, it was a time filled with so much excitement to be able to share my gift of Animal Communication with you all. I was anxious to try to explain how Animals communicate with me and the types of things that they tell me, in hopes that you would understand that these beautiful creatures are wiser and more knowing than most people realize. As a professional Animal Communicator, I talk to all kinds of Animals on a daily basis. I just thought how much fun it would be to share those experiences with you and give you a glimpse into my world.

I love working with the Grizzly Bears there and it opened up some wonderful doors for me.

A very special resident at the Montana Grizzly Encounter is Brutus the Bear and he really helped me along my journey to becoming more proficient at Animal Communication. I give him so much credit because he is the one who helped me to “get it”. He is a sweet, gentle creature and it

has been one of the highlights of my life to get to know him on such a personal level.

Fast forward five and a half years to the present day, you can imagine that a few things have changed in my world. The most recent change is that in the last month I have actually moved from Michigan to Montana and I live only 4 miles from the Montana Grizzly Encounter. Brutus the Bear is now my neighbor and just yesterday was Brutus’s birthday.

All Bears are born in January or February, but Brutus is the only one that they know for sure of his actual birth date. So, they celebrate the birthdays of all five of the rescued Bears on Brutus’s birthday and there was a celebration for all of them. Cakes were made for each Bear and other delicious treats. If you ever wondered what to get a Grizzly Bear for a birthday present, I can tell you what I got them.

Avocados, almonds, dried cranberries, dried mangos, honey, jam, granola, assorted nuts and berries and oranges. I love to watch the

Star Nations Magazine • March 2021 • 22

Bears eat oranges because you would think they would eat it in two bites and it would vanish. The truth is that they are actually very dainty with the oranges. They start by peeling the orange with one of their long four-inch nails and then pull it apart in sections as you or I would and eat it section by section. It is like watching a person in a Bear suit eating an orange. When they eat avocados, they leave the skin and the pit when they are done. If you would like to contribute to their care and feeding, go to www.

GrizzlyEncounters.org and click on the DONATE button.

As I sit here in Montana and look out over the mountains, I am already dreaming of Springtime.

The Spring Equinox is a very special time, and it brings about change in the world. Change can be good, or it can be tough for some people, even if the change is positive. Even for Animals change can be a difficult thing.

Think of how many Animals are rescued and adopted only to be anxious or aloof. I talk to many

Credit: Leslie Cirinesi

I wrote that first article about the Grizzly Bears that reside at the Montana Grizzly Encounter in Bozeman, Montana. This is a Grizzly Bear Rescue and Education Sanctuary that was established in 2004 and houses five rescued Grizzly Bears from bad captive situations or certain death in the wild. I even traveled from Michigan to be in Montana when I wrote that first article to make it more “authentic”. I thought that if I was right there, within mere feet of a Grizzly Bear, that the realness would pour through my words, onto the pages and into the magazine for you. That was my wish.

Communicating with Sacred Animals

Animals who were adopted to wonderful new homes, but they are not bonding with their new family and they are not enjoying their new luxuries. It sounds odd, doesn’t it? Sometimes change, albeit good, is still difficult at times.

I have some additional changes going on in my life as the Spring Equinox is rolling upon us. That change is that this is to be my last article for Star Nations Magazine. However, it does not

mean that you have heard the last of me. I will be continuing to write articles and I will post them on my website. I ask you to please go there to find the articles and more information about me. This is also where to go to book your Animal Communication sessions with me.

Find all the information you need at www.ISpeakToAnimals.com.

Yvette “Neshi” Lokotz for her love and guidance from the moment I met her. This magazine is her “baby” and she puts so much of herself, love, and effort into it.

Thank you, Neshi, for giving me a platform to bring people and Animals a little bit closer and to allow me to be the “Voice for the Voiceless”.

I appreciate everyone who has read my articles over the years and I want to especially thank

Speaking for your Pets,

Leslie

Leslie Cirinesi

is a Reiki Master/Teacher and Animal Communicator located in Clarkston, MI. She volunteers at the Detroit Zoo and with many animal rescues. She is available to communicate with your animals by using a photo and does phone consultations all over the world. @ Leslie@AETherapy.com | K www.AdvancedEnergyTherapy.com | K www.ISpeakToAnimals.com | f Advanced-Energy-Therapy-and-wwwispeaktoanimalscom

Star Nations Magazine • March 2021 • 23

Lulu.com - http://bit.ly/2odfa6m

Star Nations Magazine • March 2021 • 24

Cosmic Conversations

Explore The Cosmos Within You! WITH

JULIE HEDGES

Weathering the Storms of Life I’m one of those people who has a sensitive internal barometer. When the atmospheric pressure changes, I feel extra pressure and pulsing sensations in my face and head. Usually, this indicates the onset of a sinus headache. Depending on the severity of pressure and discomfort, I can predict that rain or storms are close by. I’ve experienced this for most of my adult life. Others, I’ve heard, may experience bone or joint pain when the air pressure changes, also commonly indicative of the barometric pressure change before a storm. Does your Body sense weather changes and approaching storms?

Star Nations Magazine • March 2021 • 25

Cosmic Conversations

W

hen I experience those sinus headaches and pressure-related discomforts, I try to be slower in my movements. I try to rest if possible. I remember to stay hydrated, which always helps my sinuses and eases headaches. Also, I try to give my brain a break. I try not to concentrate too hard. The extra pressure in the air makes it harder for me to think critically when my head is throbbing or pinching with pain.

At other times, my spirit senses approaching storms.

These storms don’t bring rain or wind, but they may bring sweeping changes in my relationships, home or work life. Sometimes it’s confusing to have such sensitive antennae that attune to minute energetic changes when there is no “real” evidence of change.

Yet, my “spidey sense” picks up a Change vibe. In my humanness, I sometimes experience this slight energetic shift as confusion. If that confusion festers, it can turn into worry, which is always fear of the unknown.

Yet, I can choose to use my spiritual tools to rebalance. One of my favorite tools is sacred sound. I use my drum, tingshas and crystal singing bowls. For a soul-stirring experience, I add prayers and songs to my instruments. Sacred sound and healing songs are part of the soul work I’m here to do on Earth. As I do this work with others, I share from my Heart, and I am also blessed.

Snap this QR Code to watch the video.

I offer this replay of my livestream show, Cosmic Conversations: Sacred Sound for the Sensitive Soul. During this broadcast, I share how I’ve experienced personal storms and how I’ve rebalanced and healed. I bring some of my sacred instruments with me in the broadcast. It’s an honor to share my ­spiritual walk with the readers and viewers of the Star Nations community. I hope it’s an inspiration for your own spiritual practice.

Stay connected with me for more Cosmic Conversations. Visit me on Facebook @ CosmicConversationsWithJulieHedges. Check out my website for Akashic Wisdom, Soul Path Empowerment Astrology and Sacred Sound Healing.

Watch for upcoming events and classes. Visit, www.

4SoulEmpowerment.com.

Big Cosmic Love!

♥ Julie

♥

Julie Hedges

is an author, Evolutionary Astrologer, Reiki Master/Teacher and seer. She is the host of Cosmic Conversations live stream show on Star Nations Live Stream Shows the third Monday each month at 8pm ET. She offers readings and healing sessions to those around the globe. Julie’s breakthrough book, The Tarot Journey Volume 1, is full of practical Tarot tips and tools to help readers develop a deeper relationship with the Tarot. @ TheTarotJourney@gmail.com | K TheTarotJourneyVolume1.weebly.com K JulieSoliloquy.weebly.com | f CosmicConversationsWithJulieHedges

Cosmic Conversations – Personal Sessions – Soul Path Empowerment – Available to support you.

I’m an author, healer and seer. I create meaningful dialogue with The Soul. Visit my website to schedule your session, www.4SoulEmpowerment.com. Let’s have a Cosmic Conversation to empower your sacred journey.

Star Nations Magazine • March 2021 • 26

! a e d I ft i G Great

Nature Connections

By Minnie Kansman

Gratitude all Year The Thanksgiving Address first crossed my path while reading Robin Wall Kimmerer's book, Braiding Sweetgrass. This address is not a Thanksgiving Day prayer, a pledge, or a poem, but rather an invitation of gratitude to be spoken throughout the year.

It's root words are thousands of years old, and it is still spoken today by the Native American tribes of the Seneca, Cayuga, Onondaga, Oneida, Mohawk, and Tuscarora: also known as the Haudenosaunee Confederacy of Nations.

The Thanksgiving Address is an ancient message of peace and appreciation for the Earth, and is used to open and close gatherings, meetings, and ceremonies when two or more are gathered. It is also called The Words that Come Before all Else. Its purpose is to bring the people together with One Mind, from a place of gratitude, in order to tend to the specific matters at hand.

At the Onondaga National School in upstate New York, the week begins and ends with the entire school body gathering in the atrium and assigned classes taking turns sharing the address in their native language.

It may be said in a long and descriptive form, or abbreviated, but part of its power rests in the length

Star Nations Magazine • March 2021 • 28

of time and focus it takes to send greetings and thanks to all parts of our natural world.

Imagine starting a school day, business meeting, or session of Congress where the first priority is acknowledging the gifts from the Earth we are all privileged with. Each section of the writing calls for a group response of, "And now our minds are one," making this a participative recitation.

You cannot listen to or read the Thanksgiving Address without feeling wealthy for the bounty of the earth. From the plants, animals, elements, and our teachers, the address displays the abundance surrounding us when we take the time to individually name and honor them.

This Address moved something in me that goes even deeper than gratitude. It helps me to see and step into my rightful place in my connection to being a part of this Earthly existence. Acknowledging this throughout the year, helps me to live my life in even more balance with the natural world.

Nature Connections

So why not start the New Year of 2021 with a new ritual, of expressing gratitude for the gifts we have all already received and keep receiving every day?

Speaking out-loud the Thanks Giving Address, and sharing it with those you love, is a wonderful way to start. Here is my favorite version.

Greetings to the Natural World

By Chief Jake Swamp

THE PEOPLE Today we have gathered and we see that the cycles of life continue. We have been given the duty to live in balance and harmony with each other and all living things. So now, we bring our minds together as one as we give greetings and thanks to each other as people. We give thanks for our family, friends, and fellow human beings.

Now our minds are one.

THE EARTH MOTHER

Now our minds are one.

THE WATERS We give thanks to all the waters of the world for quenching our thirst and providing us with strength.

Water is life. We know its power in many forms— waterfalls and rain, mists and streams, rivers and oceans. With one mind, we send greetings and thanks to the spirit of Water.

Now our minds are one.

Credit: All Photos Pixabay

We are all thankful to our Mother, the Earth, for she gives us all that we need for life. She supports our feet

as we walk about upon her. It gives us joy that she continues to care for us as she has from the beginning of time. To our mother, we send greetings and thanks.

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Nature Connections

THE FISH

THE MEDICINE HERBS

We turn our minds to the all the Fish life in the water. They were instructed to cleanse and purify the water. They also give themselves to us as food.

We are grateful that we can still find pure water.

So, we turn now to the Fish and send our greetings and thanks.

Now we turn to all the Medicine herbs of the world.

From the beginning they were instructed to take away sickness. They are always waiting and ready to heal us. We are happy there are still among us those special few who remember how to use these plants for healing. With one mind, we send greetings and thanks to the Medicines and to the keepers of the Medicines.

Now our minds are one.

THE PLANTS

Now our minds are one.

Now we turn toward the vast fields of Plant life. As far as the eye can see, the Plants grow, working many wonders. They sustain many life forms. With our minds gathered together, we give thanks and look forward to seeing Plant life for many generations to come.

THE ANIMALS

Now our minds are one.

THE FOOD PLANTS With one mind, we turn to honor and thank all the Food Plants we harvest from the garden. Since the beginning of time, the grains, vegetables, beans and berries have helped the people survive. Many other living things draw strength from them too.

We gather all the Plant Foods together as one and send them a greeting of thanks.

Now our minds are one.

Star Nations Magazine • March 2021 • 30

We gather our minds together to send greetings and thanks to all the Animal life in the world. They have many things to teach us as people. We are honored by them when they give up their lives so we may use their bodies as food for our people. We see them near our homes and in the deep forests.

We are glad they are still here and we hope that it will always be so.

Now our minds are one

Nature Connections

THE TREES

THE SUN

We now turn our thoughts to the Trees. The Earth has many families of Trees who have their own instructions and uses. Some provide us with shelter and shade, others with fruit, beauty and other useful things. Many people of the world use a Tree as a symbol of peace and strength. With one mind, we greet and thank the Tree life.

We now send greetings and thanks to our eldest Brother, the Sun. Each day without fail he travels the sky from east to west, bringing the light of a new day.

He is the source of all the fires of life. With one mind, we send greetings and thanks to our Brother, the Sun.

Now our minds are one.

GRANDMOTHER MOON

THE BIRDS

We put our minds together to give thanks to our oldest Grandmother, the Moon, who lights the nighttime sky. She is the leader of woman all over the world, and she governs the movement of the ocean tides. By her changing face we measure time, and it is the Moon who watches over the arrival of children here on Earth. With one mind, we send greetings and thanks to our Grandmother, the Moon.

We put our minds together as one and thank all the Birds who move and fly about over our heads. The Creator gave them beautiful songs. Each day they remind us to enjoy and appreciate life. The Eagle was chosen to be their leader. To all the Birds—from the smallest to the largest—we send our joyful greetings and thanks.

Now our minds are one.

Now our minds are one.

Now our minds are one.

THE FOUR WINDS We are all thankful to the powers we know as the Four Winds. We hear their voices in the moving air as they refresh us and purify the air we breathe.

They help us to bring the change of seasons. From the four directions they come, bringing us messages and giving us strength. With one mind, we send our greetings and thanks to the Four Winds.

THE STARS We give thanks to the Stars who are spread across the sky like jewelry. We see them in the night, ­helping the Moon to light the darkness and bringing dew to the gardens and growing things. When we travel at night, they guide us home. With our minds gathered together as one, we send greetings and thanks to the Stars.

Now our minds are one.

Now our minds are one.

THE THUNDERERS Now we turn to the west where our grandfathers, the Thunder Beings, live. With lightning and thundering voices, they bring with them the water that renews life. We are thankful that they keep those evil things made by Okwiseres underground. We bring our minds together as one to send greetings and thanks to our Grandfathers, the Thunderers.

THE ENLIGHTENED TEACHERS We gather our minds to greet and thank the Teachers who have come to help throughout the ages. When we forget how to live in harmony, they remind us of the way we were instructed to live as people. With one mind, we send greetings and thanks to these caring teachers.

Now our minds are one.

Now our minds are one.

Star Nations Magazine • March 2021 • 31

Nature Connections

THE CREATOR

CLOSING WORDS ...

Now we turn our thoughts to the creator, or Great Spirit, and send greetings and thanks for all the gifts of Creation. Everything we need to live a good life is here on this Mother Earth. For all the love that is still around us, we gather our minds together as one and send our choicest words of greetings and thanks to the Creator.

We have now arrived at the place where we end our words. Of all the things we have named, it was not our intention to leave anything out. If something was forgotten, we leave it to each individual to send such greetings and thanks in their own way.

Now our minds are one.

WE GIVE THANKS FOR YOU. ✧

Minnie Kansman

Now our minds are one.

A certified Master Feng Shui Consultant and Educator and Nature and Forest Therapy Guide, her business Eco~Balance Humanity in Harmony with Nature assists others with Feng Shui, Sacred Space Clearing, and Nature Spirit Connection. She is author of Spirit Gardens: Rekindling our Nature Connection, and Missing Nana: Lessons from the Nature Spirits, a playful children’s story about the afterlife based on love.

Join Minnie for her Nature Connections live stream the fourth Wed. of the month at 4 pm ET, and contact her for long distance and on-site Feng Shui Consultations and Space Clearing Ceremonies. Check out her website for a Forest Therapy walk near you.

K www.minniekansman.com | @ ecobalance99@gmail.com | f minniekansman99 | f Nature Connections with Minnie Kansman

Star Nations Magazine • March 2021 • 32

Sacred Masculine

By Tony Cherette

SPRING EQUINOX LIVES FOR CHANGE Spring, refreshing, spring. The season of new beginnings, birth, sunlight, birdsong, and the plant people blooming their joy.

Who can ever forget their first scent of spring after a long winter? That fresh, clean, unique, as well as life-giving smell tells you we have many months of warmth and growth ahead of us. Not to mention light—Glorious, glorious light!

S

pring (Vernal) Equinox takes place this year on Saturday, March 20. It is one of four equinoxes we experience in the general calendar year, and it means the Sun is above the Equator, and we experience day and night being of equal length.

That signals a shift in the seasons. This puts me in mind of preparations for that event.

What type of ceremony do you engage in to welcome the return of the light?

Is it a ceremony centered around a family tradition?

Around a cultural teaching or historical event? Do you change it up or switch it up year by year? Do you pick new traditions to add to your event?

In our house, from a practical standpoint, when we know that the return of longer days is near, we tend

to feel that urge to break out the cleaning supplies, work on those baseboards and give the first spring or even pre-spring cleaning to the windows.

For other folks, they feel the invisible tug and pull out the ladder, climb up those steps and get those gutters clean or cleared of winter debris. It is something joyous to go from nesting or resting to reimagine our days ahead, one chore or task at a time.

Have you noticed that along with cleaning, tidying, etc., some of our friends with green thumbs and plant catalogs tap into that subtle energy that leans more towards tending the gentle stalks and tendrils of plant seedlings they have started? They feel great joy and anticipation in planting once the ground gives the invitation that she is ready to help in the process. We love our plant-loving friends!

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Sacred Masculine

Circling around to the spiritual component of this time event, you’ll find that right along with the cleaning supplies, we break out the Sage and sometimes tobacco and present an offering to the spirits who help to usher in this glorious new season.

Have you ever permitted yourself to celebrate in that way? Somehow, it seems that act can make the idea of new days ahead feel like they are properly welcomed, right along with a clean environment. Not just a two-for-one bonus yet a tradition that may assist in the spirits feeling very welcome around your environs.

A friend asked in an online discussion recently how others experience the nature spirits making an appearance. I thought that was a rather good question from the standpoint that everyone has a different way of either ‘seeing,’ ‘feeling,’ ‘sensing,’ or interpreting vibes that may surround them around equinox times. For me, it is always a mystery exactly when I first feel them show up.

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Sometimes, it can occur when I see the first crocus spring up. Other times, I can be out ambling around and feel a literal ‘sense’ of change in the air.

One of the great things I have also seen being discussed recently in a wider forum is the specific experiences people have and have had during change times with the nature spirits.

When referring to the spirits, I think of the plant people, the bird people, the insect people, and the tree people.

I recently came across several articles on how birdsong lifts people’s spirits and why that is. That could take an entire article to even touch on just a few of those truths, so maybe in the future, we’ll cover that.

One of the Native teachings I received with regard to seasonal changes in how the plant people know when to wake up and begin their communication with the Sun. Scientists have pondered that the

Sacred Masculine

information shared with me is that the bird people awaken first and call to their friends in the plant kingdom to get up and come out and play. It is simply such a great and gentle idea that friends wake each other to start another cycle of enjoyment.

Spring equinox can also be a time when you set a new goal for yourself regarding your guidance sources. In fact, refreshing your information sources is always something to keep on your calendar for the right time.

Let’s talk a little more about that with regard to your spirit guides.

Much like the winds that are different from season to season, spirit guides have a relationship to different times in your life. As you may know, some guides come in with you at the start of your life, and some come and go throughout your life.

in our lives, and frankly, sometimes, they are ready to move on to assist someone in their specialty area.

You can work with that!

How do you know if it’s time for a change?

One very simple and easy way to tell is if you feel stagnant in your growth—no shame in that game.

If so, you have a couple of options. The first is to call in another guide to work with you if you have a very specific goal in mind. That can really relieve stress and anxiety for some folks, particularly if they are feeling ‘stuck’ in an old routine.

If you don’t feel you need a new guide, then consider laying out a small offering to them and asking them if they need your help with anything. Or if they desire a change of venue. Or if they simply need a rest.

What happens if you are in a season where you are not feeling much in touch with your guides, or they feel somewhat silent?

When I am working with a client on these questions, I suggest inviting them to see if they fell silent for some particular reason.

It seems appropriate that with the upcoming change in literal light, we consider both the practical (cleaning house, etc.) right along with the spiritual (discussion with our guides or asking for a new one). The gain you will feel from the physical movement, and the spiritual movement will boost your well-being and keep you motivated toward achieving your goals and desires.

They, too, are working on their growth and change in another dimension, so it is not entirely unusual that silence or less input from them can happen at various times during the year.

Spring tends to bring those types of opportunities our way. Exercise them and make the next part of 2021 a safer, gentler, and more satisfying season for you and your loved ones.

What if it is a question that it’s time for some new guides?

That may seem a controversial question to pose or even scary. For some, it may seem novel or a new idea. Guides have an honored and esteemed place

May I suggest:

There is something quite extraordinary about emerging from the solemn, long, cold winter nights with the knowledge that as each day passes, we move closer and closer to longer spells of that liquid sunlight and easier weather.

Anthony D. Cherette

is a Medium with 35 years of experience. He is also an Elder and registered tribal member of the Annishnabeg Nation. Anthony is also a legal professional, a parent, a community activist and Two-Spirit human. He is a contributing writer of Star Nations Magazine who is happy you are reading his articles.

Star Nations Magazine • March 2021 • 35

THE SACRED HOOP By Yvette Neshi Lokotz

Spring for Hope Life is all about change — everything in our life changes.

Energy is constantly flowing and changing. When we consider nature, the most apparent changes are each of the seasons. We can see how change is a common thread between the seasons and they show us the thread of change through all things.

On the Native American Medicine Wheel, each season: Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter are in the cross quarters, the crosswinds. This placement is one of continual change. These changes' wind or spirit can be subtle, or they can be like downdrafts and turbulent.

I live in Wisconsin. Our change of seasons is very dramatic. There is no subtleness found in tornados, blizzards, autumn leave colors, and hot, humid weather. There can be beauty within these dramatic changes, even though the changes can be experienced with some uncomfortableness and pain.

The Spring Equinox is about change, new beginnings, dawn, balance, and hope. We begin to work toward the energy of the Equinox at the energy of the Solstice. At the Winter Solstice, many of us ponder our recent past.

We weed out items we want to release and not take with us into the New Year. We begin to dream about what we want in our lives in the coming year. This planning is much like when gardeners begin to plant their gardens and select what to grow in the Spring.

Our dreaming is preparing the soil, the soil of our life, for what we want to create. When the ground is thawed and warmed up, we begin to turn the soil to start planting the seeds of our dreams. We have hope that our seeds will germinate and start to sprout in the Spring.

For many years, I have written about the Equinoxes and Solstices. This year is a bit different for me. I am just now realizing what needs to be released. I am in grief. My mourning for my Mom does take my energy.

With her death in November, then my mother-in-law's death in December, our focus was on them and not on the Solstice.

The release of our mothers left a huge void. Neither Paul nor I took time to recognize the release or set the intention for what to create in the new.

We are just finishing up dispersing their belongings, finalizing financial records, and physically cleaning the rooms in which my mother lived.

Star Nations Magazine • March 2021 • 36

The Sacred Hoop

Death doesn't mean an abrupt ending of energy. A person's energy builds up to complete the physical life and their energy remains with us for some time afterwards as we move the physical and mental remnants of their lives to a conclusion.

We are regaining our focus and our energy allocation to our own life. The release is slowly changing how our energies are flowing. This change is much like the change of seasons — the ebb and flow of change.

As I write this magazine article, I realize that Paul and I haven't dreamed about what we would like to plant, create, to sprout in the Spring.

It is hard to make big decisions right now. Okay, many times, it is hard to make even simple decisions; we are doing the basics. As we rest and rebuild our emotional strength, we will begin to dream

and to hope for the kind of 2021 we would like to experience.

I am allowing the space to be dormant for a time, much like a farmer will allow a field to lay fallow for a while so that the soil can rejuvenate. Another word comes to mind, and that is “recalibrate”. Or perhaps it is a pregnant pause as we wait for the old life to complete its cycle and we are in the gestation of the new.

We need time to adjust to this different way of being. Quietness is required to feel and hear what is different. Only then can we decide what we will keep, what to adapt, what to release, and what to exchange.

I am also reminded to pay attention, to have an awareness, to the details regarding the changes, the emotions that flow through, the thoughts that come and go, and even the quietness. All of these items are about my life lessons, what I remembered, and what I

learned. This time of quietness is to integrate all the change and experience my soul growth.

It takes courage to stand in the quiet, in that fallow field of integration. I say it takes courage and even self-discipline to hold still rather than rushing forward to avoid memories and mourning.

I believe it is in the stillness that there is still a subtle movement, the constant flow of energy, where hope can reside.

The Spring Equinox holds the energy of change and hope.

We all can tap into that gift the Creator provides to us and how it flows through Grandmother Earth.

She expresses the gift for us.

If you find yourself wondering about this energy of change and hope, I suggest being still and quiet to sense the gift Grandmother Earth holds for us.

Spring can hold the energy of hope for all of us.

Bama Mine (Potawatomi for Until We See Each Other Again),

Neshi Yvette Neshi Lokotz

A tribal member of the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation, with Ho-Chunk Nation and Yaqui Nation descent, she was raised in the traditions of Ho-Chunk and Potawatomi cultures. Neshi is a publisher, drum maker, and a Medicine Dress Dancer.

Neshi is the C.E.O. of Star Nations Organization, which includes Star Nations Publishing, Star Nations Magazine, Star Nations Live Stream, and Star Nations Academy. She holds a B.A. in psychology and an M.A. in Management and Organizational Behavior. @ starnationspublishing@gmail.com | f StarNationsOrganization

Star Nations Magazine • March 2021 • 37

S tar N ations

Yo u r B r i d g e t o A n c i e n t a n d M o d e r n S p i r i t u a l I n f o r m a t i o n

K www.starnations.org f StarNationsOrganization

S tar N ations

Yo u r B r i d g e t o A n c i e n t a n d M o d e r n S p i r i t u a l I n f o r m a t i o n

Star Nations Magazine Guest Contributing Writers Leslie Cirinesi Sharon Rosenblum

Star Nations Publishing Staff Executive Staff C.E.O. & Executive Publisher: Neshi Lokotz, Tomah, WI @ Neshi@starnations.org

Adriane Campbell Karen Crowley Susani Tony Cherette

Star Nations Live Stream Contributing Writers Neshi Lokotz Ed Langan Ortrun Franklin Polly Jo Labbé Julie Hedges Minnie Kansman

Star Nations Academy Manager:

Julie Shumway Hill, Wisconsin Dells, WI @ AcademyManager@starnations.org

BIAR (Beans in a Row): Bookkeeping and Organizing @ beansinarow@gmail.com 608-477-1162

Associate Editor:

Sharon Rosenblum, Fox Point, WI @ TheFeatheringQuill@gmail.com

Live Stream Producer: Robert Colter, Detroit, MI

Maureen Mann www.starnations.org

Subscriptions Assistant:

Deborah Clark Clemens, New Lisbon, WI

@ starnationsmagazineassistant@gmail.com

Graphic Layout:

Elf Elm Publishing K www.elfelmpublishing.com

Website & Bkgd Photos:

Dan McCormack, K www.elfelm.com

S tar N ations

Yo u r B r i d g e t o A n c i e n t a n d M o d e r n S p i r i t u a l I n f o r m a t i o n

“

Walk tall like the trees, live your life as strong as the mountains, be as soft as the spring breezes, keep the warmth of the sun in your heart and the Great Spirit will always be with you.

— Navajo Proverb

”