Parting the Mists

I’ve said this before and I’ll say it again now: It’s easy to feel like we aren’t good enough in a world where we are constantly comparing ourselves to what others share on social media. What we show on these public forums is rarely the difficulties and the doubt – so stop comparing yourself to other people’s curated and cultivated images. Trust that you can get things done and that you are good enough.

Blessings!

Thistle

Squirrel Spirit: Believe in Yourself

Message: You have accumulated wisdom and experience and are surrounded by all you need. An abundance of resources is available to you through the generosity of Spirit and all your hard work. Squirrel Spirit shows up when you need reminding that the acorns you have gathered and stowed away have enormous potential to grow, so relax into knowing there is always enough and you have what it take to co-create the reality you want to experience. Through diligent preparation, you have gained wisdom and strength. How much potential you have! Believe in yourself, for Spirit believes in you and wants you to know you have enough and are enough. Doesn’t that truth make you feel safe and secure? It should, for you have everything you need right now.

Protection Message: The unpredictability of life can shake your confidence and your potential for handling the challenges that come your way. Does the thought of not having enough or being enough make you squirrely? Have you forgotten all your strengths, wisdom and resources? You have come so far on your wits and creativity, making use of all your potential and all that Spirit presents to help you through life’s trying times. It’s time to look back on your life and remember how your needs have always been met for the highest good, even in your most challenging times.

Life loves you, and so many treasures are hidden in plain sight, ready to be revealed when you most need them – so relax. Squirrel Spirit wants you to know you are poised and ready for whatever is coming next, so trust in yourself and trust that Spirit has your back!

Spirit Animal Oracle by author Colette Baron-Reid and artist Jenna DellaGrottaglia

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Today in southeast Kansas, we have a lovely steady rain. We need it – our current conditions are hovering between “Severe” and “Extreme” drought conditions. Spent some time on the porch listening to the rain, enjoying what now feels like a rare treat.

The card today ties to water and what it brings for many (as long as it’s not a flood) – prosperity. Often, we grumble about what we don’t have or the opportunities we have missed. Today is the time to be grateful for what we have and to create our own opportunities, whether it’s for financial, creative, romantic, or friendly endeavors. Be open to a different way to pursue your goal, friends, and so forth. The rest will follow.

Blessings,

Thistle

Koi Fish Spirit – There is always enough

Message: The koi fish, who grows big within a small pond, reminds us that within each of us is the potential for prosperity. Regardless of temporary outer conditions, you can call in prosperity and magnetically attract the opportunities and abundance you need. The message of Koi Fish Spirit is to begin to generate wealth within, with deliberate intention, no matter how small your pond may seem—and appreciate abundance wherever you see it. 

Outer conditions will come to reflect your inner prosperity, so begin to become the self who is comfortable with wealth in all forms. Even if, at the moment, it feels as if riches are not yours, they soon will be. Start to envision the plenty that Spirit wants you to experience, knowing that the moment you begin to commit to conscious and deliberate co-creating, Spirit will joyfully start bringing you what you need. You have so much to offer and so much of value to express to the world. In your little pond, there is much you can create and much you can attract. Do not underestimate what you have and who you are, for Koi Fish Spirit wants you to know that you are exquisite, loved, and deeply cherished. Trust that outer conditions are changing to reflect that truth.

Protection Message: Are you feeling a sense of scarcity, afraid you will not have enough and not be enough to meet the challenges you face? Whatever your outer conditions, they are temporary and reflecting what was set forth in the past. Koi Fish Spirit is your ally in changing those conditions by transforming your inner beliefs about scarcity and plenty. Perhaps you have suffered a loss or are afraid you soon will, or you have been scraping by and feeling there are simply no opportunities available for you to better your circumstances. Koi Fish asks you to find prosperity within you by connecting to Spirit through spiritual practices. Spirit wants to remind you that your natural state is one of abundance. Remember all that you have to offer so that you can generate your own opportunities, love relationships, and even more.

Even if you feel you have little to give right now, find it within you to give to someone else, even if it’s s just a few encouraging words, a smile, or a helping hand. Your action will remind you that you have more than it appears – more gifts, more strength, more wisdom, more abundance. As you give to others, your own sense of prosperity grows and your outer conditions begin to shift in an alchemical reaction. Prosperity and love are yours to receive, experience, and enjoy. Believe it.

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It’s easy to get obsessive nowadays – whole online platforms are designed to make you obsessively check them. We can binge our favorite shows without a weekly wait between episodes. But sometimes, slowing down and doing some other things is good. Take a look at how you are spending your time. Do you need to let go of something that isn’t moving forward no matter what you do? Are you putting all your free time into escapism without creating, moving, or connecting? It’s time for a change.

Blessings,

Thistle

Moth Spirit – Surrender Now

Message: Moth Spirit asks what is guiding you right now? Are you in alignment with Spirit or pursuing something or someone with so much tenacity that it has become a compulsion or addiction? Are you so intoxicated by a potential relationship or opportunity that you can’t think straight?

Hard work and dedication are virtues, and love of course is a beautiful thing. However, when Moth appears, it is time to consider if you have gone over the edge in a relentless pursuit. Workaholism, overeating, perfectionism, or addiction to certainty or even to a person may be your current vice. The form of your addict does not matter so much as your awareness of the consequences of remaining persistent when moderation is needed. Let go of your excessive energy by channeling it in more than one direction. The fire burns not, and you do not want to be engulfed by your passion to the exclusion of all the other pursuits that matter to you.

Now is time for a surrender and for radical acceptance so that your drive does not cause you to flee or fight. Spirit wants you to release your need for certainty and control so that you can relax into a more balanced way of using your Moth Spirit energy. Banish the “shoulds” and “musts” so that you can enjoy what is as you allow for what might be.

Protection Message: Moth Spirit can be intense, and honesty about your own compulsive tendencies is needed right now. It is to easy to switch from one addiction to another, distracting yourself from the discomfort of uncertainty and the thoughts and emotions that arise when you aren’t single-mindedly pursuing a goal. Moth calls to you to practice moderation in all things and recognize when you think you are headed toward the light but are really heading into a fire that will cause burnout. Why are you so resistant to letting up? Could you be avoiding difficult emotions you need to feel and release? Now is a time to do a fearless inventory so that your addictive tendencies can be toned down and rechanneled into enthusiastic activity in moderation. Listen to Moth’s message that a change is needed to support your well being

Maybe, deep down, you know you have become too attached to something or someone. Let go of your need to control the outcome and allow yourself to remember the many ways you want to channel your energy – to relationships, to work, to giving to others, to self-care, and to all the other pursuits you value.

Spirit Animal Oracle by author Colette Baron-Reid and artist Jena DellaGrottaglia

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Here is a lovely card, in image and meaning, to head into the weekend with.

Blessings!

Thistle

Butterfly Spirit – Transformation is Beautiful

Message: Joy and the beautiful lightness of being alive and creative in the world is the focus when Butterfly Spirit flutters before you. Transformation is inevitable as you grow into your most beautiful, empowered self. Indeed, you will go through some uncomfortable stages as you let go of the forms of your life that no longer fit the new you. Even relationships must go through shifts to match your new emerging self. If you focus on the beauty and not the challenges, stop taking yourself too seriously, and choose to to be playful, loving, and joyous, you will soon know the miracle your soul wants to experience through you. Today is a day for joy, so alight! Look around and see the beauty that is everywhere and in everyone, including you.

Protection Message: Transformation doesn’t have to be as traumatic or dramatic as things may seem to be right now. Remember, change is the only true constant; when you resist it, you create a tension within you as you refuse to accept the inevitable. In this moment, you might have forgotten the beauty and joy of life as it moves through its seasons, as nature dictates. You are being faced with a choice now. You can struggle with the current condition, refusing to surrender, and see through the lens of lack and loss, or you can surrender to the grace that is calling you to allow life to take its course, moving through the sadness and disappointment. Surrender will soften you, inviting you to bask in gratitude and see through the lens of curiosity; these are the key to tuning in to the infinite potential available to you now. Butterfly Spirit knows the beauty and delight you are on the brink of discovering. Let go and trust that it is there for you.

Spirit Animal Oracle by author Colette Baron-Reid and artist Jena DellaGrottaglia

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While last week’s cards pointed toward laying low, healing, and being creative, today we kick off the week with the Stag Spirit, which says it is time to step up and lead. Do not fear this responsibility, as the tools and knowledge are there – you simply have to reach for them.

Blessings!

Thistle

Stag Spirit – Take the Lead

Message: Whether or not you have set your intention to lead, you may have found yourself suddenly called to step up to the forefront of your life. Stag Spirit is a reminder that now is a time to heed the call to be sure, strong, and compassionate. Others will look to you, and you have it within you to see through the eyes of Stag Spirit and walk with confidence as you take on responsibilities that are yours now and to model integrity in all that you do and in all your relationships. Be willing to see the best in others so that your compassionate heart keeps you on the right path.

Stag Spirit wants you to know that your responsibilities now are to yourself too, for you are learning and developing new skills. The best in you is coming into view as you step forward with strength, knowing that Spirit supports you as you compassionately take the lead. You are a model for transformation now, sharing your experience, strength, and hope with others so they may grow and discover their best selves too. What a gift you are. Stay humble and authentic, and walk your talk, for this how a wise leader leads.

Protection Message: Others may not be as far along as you are on your journey. When Stag Spirit appears in the protection position, you are called to be compassionate and patient as you find yourself leading the way. When others struggle to follow you, they may be unsure that you can be trusted, challenging you to be kind and strong, challenging your value and questioning your worth. Know that Spirit has put you in this place at this time for a purpose and will not abandon you when you need help with your new responsibilities. 

Or perhaps you are actually uncomfortable leading, maybe temporarily trapped by your small self and therefore promoting yourself too strongly, afraid that others might see weakness or imperfection in you. Let go of your fears, and let Stag Spirit remind you that you have what it takes to lead wisely and ethically if you practice self-honestly and listen to others who wish to support you.

Spirit Animal Oracle by author Colette Baron-Reid and artist Jenna DellaGrottaglia

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Thank you all for your patience with my inconsistency this week – nothing bad happened, just some weird scheduling that I didn’t adapt to quickly.

This morning I realized that Mercury Retrograde started yesterday (happy new year to us), so I went with a gentle deck. As many of the retrograde experts will say, this is not a time to start a big endeavor, communication might be wonky, and don’t make a big commitment. Researching and learning, decluttering and cleaning, and relaxing and reflecting are great alternatives. Spider is here to say we do have to the work to make our dreams real and that Spirit/Universe will gladly meet us. Even though big commitments might not be in order for a couple weeks, we can take small steps toward our dreams.

This is also a good time to be creative, which is a great way to work through a retrograde. Take some time for yourself and let your creative juices flow in whatever way works for you: painting, writing, planning a garden, culinary, or whatever.

Have a lovely weekend and safe and happy New Years!

Thistle

Spider Spirit – Make your dreams real

Message: Weaving your dreams into the fabric of life begins with a single thread of intention, and then spirit joins you as your co-weaving partner. Take but a single step to make your dream a reality, and Spirit will take ten toward you, for the universe is designed to support your dream-weaving.

Spirit Spirit arrives when you need reminding of the awesome power of co-creation with Spirit. Ideas and resources will begin to appear as if by magic as you begin to bring your dreams from the realm of intention into the world of the senses where they take form. The action you need to take is to be clear about your intentions, and then act as if you have become the one that lives the life you desire. The web of creation has an uncanny way of coming together to weave the beautiful pattern you set in motion.

Another message of Spider Spirit is about any creative project you may be considering: Writing, painting, music, journaling, gardening, etc. Now is the time when inspiration wants to be channeled through you at something creative, even artistic and tangible. Creative projects are successful now, if you are so inclined. Let yourself be open to abundance.

Protection Message: Are you expecting your dreams to weave themselves into reality? Are you stuck in the sticky web of weaving dreams, but never following through? The thread of Intention isn’t enough to make dreams a frailty unless you do your part in the weaving. Spider want you to know that your plans will remain ephemeral unless you commit to being productive and industrious, for Spirit will not do it all for you. Magic needs to be instigated, so begin to make your dream a reality by taking action today.

What are you willing to do? What are you willing to sacrifice? Can you release your limiting beliefs? Your dream is worthy of weaving. Today is a day to choose one small step toward your dream. Remember, Spirit is your weaving partner; you just have to be the first one to bring the thread to the loom, then continue to do your part.

Spirit Animal Oracle by author Colette Baron-Reid and artist Jena DellaGrottaglia

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Decided to start the week with a gentle deck as last week seemed harsh for so many – and even one of the gentlest cards from the deck popped up! Be kind to yourself and others today. Do not engage in arguments and remember that taking everything personally will make it a tough row to hoe.

Blessings!

Thistle

Deer Spirit

Message: The time has come to be gentle and diplomatic when dealing with others. You might have found yourself in a situation where negotiations are necessary in order to reach your goal. Be mindful of the words you choose, but do not worry. Deer Spirit reminds you that you have the ability to be sure-footed and confident while showing humility and respect for others. You will find that your capacity for calm and grounded communication is heightened at this time.

Follow the way of Deer Spirit and you will do well, gaining the respect of others and finding common ground that is pleasing to you. Remember that understanding others and their needs will be more powerful at this time than putting your own first. If you do that, you will be rewarded tenfold.

Protection Message: Deer Spirit is bringing you a gentle warning that now is not the time to engage in an argument, no matter how volatile others are being. Do not match their intensity with your own. If you are dealing an overly assertive person, step back and disengage, lest you agree to something out of alignment with your intentions. Don’t let anyone bully you into anything you’re uncomfortable with. You have solid footing if you stand your ground with grace; those who disagree will begin to find their own gentleness and willingness to compromise.

Deer also brings the message that it might be easy to offend someone today or to take offense because someone lacks diplomacy. Let all of that pass. You are not meant to take this world personally. While it’s a beautiful gift to be sensitive, today you need a tougher hide so that any compromises you make allow you to maintain your integrity.

Spirit Animal Oracle by author Colette Baron-Reid and artist Jena DellaGrottaglia

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When we are so focused on a goal, sometimes it’s easy to become TOO focused and not see other ways of doing things (as my better half likes to say, some people think their dominoes can only fall one way). We tire mentally and physically, not seeing what’s really needed to accomplish the goal. Today and this weekend, take a breath, maybe take a meditative walk, and refresh yourself and hit that idea again next week with clearer eyes.

Blessings!

Thistle

Brown Bear Spirit – Take Time Out

Message: There is a time to act and a time to focus your attention on patient strategizing. The arrival of Brown Bear Spirit signals that you are best served by foregoing hard work toward your goals at this moment and instead taking the time out to meditate – or just take a nap so you can refresh yourself and begin planning what you want to co-create next. Come to know the lay of the land as you contemplate and imagine what you might do in this vast space of possibility before you, and begin forming a plan. Remember, sleep allows for dreaming and rest allows for clear-headed strategizing.

How might you become the person you wish to be and experience whatever your heart desires? Insights will arise as you explore the possibilities and begin envisioning your plan. Knowing what you want will ensure you use your energy wisely in the days ahead. Be patient at this time. Relax and be calm and peaceful so you can recharge. The call for action will come later.

Protection Message: When you become so frazzled that you can’t decide how to move forward, Brown Bear arrives to remind you to let go of your impatience in getting to answers and solving the problems that face you. Now is the time for rest and meditation. Take a break, let insights arise, and know that you have plenty of time to make plans.

Brown Bear Spirit reminds you that sometimes the best and most effective action is inaction, allowing the situation around you to reveal itself to you so you can better understand it. Remember that what is yours will never be withheld from you, so you really can relax and wait until the next right action is revealed. Miracles come from out of nowhere, and yours will arrive on Great Spirit’s timetable.

Spirit Animal Oracle by author Colette Baron-Reid and artists Jenna DellaGrotaglia

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The starfish serves as an inspiration for our dreams and goals. Today is a day to reach for things you normally tell yourself aren’t achievable. Go for it!

Blessings,

Thistle

Starfish Spirit – Open to infinite possibility

Message: Stretched out on at the beach, the Starfish opens fully to the rays of the sun, to the power of potential. As you look out toward the horizon, do you open to infinite possibility? Spirit is the source of opportunities beyond your wildest imagination and ensures endless possibilities are available. At this time, Starfish Sprit urges you to stretch past the limits of your everyday perception and comfort zone to dream of bigger things and imagine even greater hope and faith, for miraculous potential is shining down on you. Feel it, bask in it, and open yourself to be filled with inspiration. This is a very fortunate sign that Starfish Spirit has come to remind you of your infinite potential.

Protection Message: When cynicism says no, Starfish Spirit says yes a thousand times over. Are you willing to entertain new possibilities? Are you limiting your goals in order to be realistic, and cutting yourself off from the power of dreaming big? Let go of your rigid beliefs about what is possible for you, and let Starfish Spirit inspire you to open your heart and your eyes to what Spirit has available to you. Now is a time to stretch beyond the familiar and unfurl yourself, for you are meant for more than you are imagining for yourself. Spirit wants the best for you and will support you in achieving whatever intention you hold dear.

Spirit Animal Oracle by author Colette Baron-Reid and artist Jena DellaGrottaglia

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Sometimes it’s easier to be safe and comfortable instead of taking risks. If you’ve been considering a risk, today might be the time to start that ball rolling. On the flip side, Badger also reminds us that we don’t always get our way, so if we’ve been pursuing something that’s not coming to fruition, it’s time to give it a rest. Sometimes something better is there and we just aren’t focusing on it – or it’s just not time for that particular dream to become reality.

Blessings!

Thistle

Badger Spirit – Be Fearless and Bold

Message: Badger Spirit rejoices at your persistence and commitment to what is true for you. Whatever you seek, your tenacity and faith in your partnership with Spirit is paying off, and the results will soon coalesce into form in your world. The gift of Badger is the surety that taking a risk now and being courageous, fearless, and bold will yield wondrous results. This is a time to harness your will and apply it consistently to the pursuit of your dreams. Know that no matter the temporary outer conditions, you will manifest your desires in divine timing and in the form that Spirit deems best for you.

Badger Spirits says you have what it takes to get what you want, so assert yourself. Be fearless and be bold, shining your light as your purpose calls you into the world. New relationships are also given a green light now. Don’t be afraid to make the first move. Badger Spirit loves your brave and mighty heart!

Protection Message: When Badger Spirit comes to protect you, he reminds you that anger or aggression, argumentative behavior, and being pushy or manipulative will not result in a positive outcome. Perhaps someone close to you has excess Badger energy, or perhaps that energy is pent up in you. Either way, now is the time to calm down and allow the energy to pass through you. Go for a hike or brisk walk, shake it off, dance it out so you can return to the situation determined and committed, but not so intense that you overwhelm others and ourself.

The appearance of Badger Spirit also serves as a reminder if you have been relentless pursuing something that keeps eluding you. The message is that it’s time to give it up to your Higher Power and focus on something else. Badger wants to protect you from self-will run rampant – from being obsessed with getting what you want in the form you prefer, in timing that fits perfectly with your notions of what has to be. Remember, the world doesn’t revolve around your wants. Better, more beautiful opportunities will be the result when you release some of that Badger Spirit intensity along with our need to have it your way one hundred percent.

Spirit Animal Oracle by author Colete Baron-Reid and artist Jenna DellaGrotaglia

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