SHINING LOTUS™ METAPHYSICAL BOOKSTORE NEWSLETTER
The Original Metaphysical Bookstore, since 1972
AUGUST 2015
2178 South Colorado Blvd, Denver Colorado 80222
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in this issue
THE SPIRITUAL SYMBOLISM OF JONAH AND THE WHALE by Bruce Johnson
PLANETS AND POSSIBILITIES: A LOOK AT THE ASTROLOGY OF AUGUST by Sally Shotwell
“THE TIME HAS COME”, THE WALRUS SAID, “TO TALK OF MANY THINGS…” by Mario C. Veo
A PRACTICAL GUIDE TO TAROT READING with Mo Abdelbaki
LET’S GET STONED with Meghan Taft
INTRO FOR HALLOWQUEST TAROT AND SPIRITUALITY CLASS with Andarta
SIMPLETALES ASTROLOGY: THE MONTH AHEAD with C. A. Brooks
RITUALS THAT INVOKE SPIRIT’S BLESSINGS – $10 WORKSHOP with Mario C. Veo
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THE SPIRITUAL SYMBOLISM OF JONAH AND THE WHALE
by Bruce Johnson
The tale of Jonah’s voyage of fleeing from, and then finding alignment with God’s will, is an allegory of the human personality being unified with, and ultimately absorbed by, the Divine Self. The spiritual transformation that Jonah or the Soul experienced in the stomach of the whale is paralleled in the death and rebirth mysteries of numerous ancient religions. The Book of Jonah symbolically represents the human soul as it undergoes the spiritual regeneration described by Jesus as being” born again”.
The Book of Matthew chapter 12 verse 40 compares the three days and nights Jonah spent inside the whale to the time Jesus remained in the tomb before his ascension. Resurrection from the grave after three days he is characteristic of many sun- gods whether the Egyptian Serapis, the Chaldean Bel, or the Greek Hercules who like Jonah, lived three days in the belly of a great fish.
Jonah’s sacrifice of voluntarily being thrown overboard into the sea to calm the tempest he had caused, and then being swallowed by the whale is an ancient symbol of the soul being spiritually reborn, in the cave of initiation. The cave is the womb of Earth, the traditional meeting ground of the divine and human selves, and the place of the second birth. Spiritual resurrection from a cave, grave, grotto or chamber of a pyramid, indicated a new beginning, soul renewal, and attunement to one’s divine mission. The tomb or cavern is identical in meaning to the whale of matter that encases and conceals the soul Jonah inside. It is the dark womb from which the light is born.
Astrologically, the whale is Virgo or matter, the mother that contains the divine child of spirit. Matter is the vehicle or container of spirit. Jonah symbolizes the spirit within the body , the soul, and the sign Leo. Jonah and the whale demonstrate a strong mother and divine child as well as the matter to spirit relationship symbolism. Matter and spirit unity shown through Virgo and Leo combined is also clearly shown in the symbolism of the Egyptian Sphinx.
The constellation Cetus, the Whale or Great Fish, expresses multiple meanings in Jonah’s journey toward spiritual understanding, and aligning with Divine Will. The whale is the darkness of death and ignorance that engulfs the human soul prior to spiritual illumination. The belly of the whale is the transforming womb that casts the newly reborn soul onto the solid ground of spiritual truth. The whale also represents the world of physical substance, and the prison of the mortal self from which the immortal soul Jonah within is eventually set free.
The Judgement card of the tarot depicts the rebirth of six individuals resurrecting from their watery graves of death and human ignorance. They, like Jonah of old, are hearing and being tested by the Word of the Lord, symbolized by their response to the sound of the angel’s trumpet.
Bruce Johnson has over 30 years of study in the fields of Ancient Wisdom and occultism. He has taught classes on a wide range of topics, from Atlantis to mediums to Zoroaster. He is also a spiritualist minister, with a background in spiritual astrology. He lives in Colorado with his wife and their cat.
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PLANETS AND POSSIBILITIES: A LOOK AT THE ASTROLOGY OF AUGUST
by Sally Shotwell
The influential Full Moon (culmination) in airy, humanistic Aquarius July 31 sets the tone for the first days of August. Its Sabian Symbol message sheds light on where we may set our sights regarding our personal expansion. “Beautifully gowned wax figures on display; the inspiration one may derive from the appearance of Exemplars who present to us the archetypes of new cultures.” We’re all aware that technological innovators are constantly modifying and redefining how we live in this new information age. The implications and import of ‘new cultures’ must be considered as we determine what is of value and what clouds our vision causing us to be oblivious to it.
“Beautifully gowned wax figures on display”
We’re really in luck having a configuration of planets which focus directly on the crucial investigation of the validity of our values and attachments. Venus, the Queen of these issues, is going backward into sunny Leo after spending valuable time in detached, restrained Virgo. This sojourn allowed her to gain perspective on emotional investments which need further consideration. The Moon, representing emotions, is not the only influence to consider when we’re figuring out what’s going on sub rosa in our psyche. Unrecognized material can undermine our engagement with others and our own feelings about ourselves. What we don’t understand we end up either consciously or unconsciously, project onto other people and situations. This is confusing to all and really messes up relationships.
Enter The Teacher, Saturn in watery, penetrating Scorpio (direct on August 1) who steps in sharing with us the revelations regarding concealed wounds and distorted perceptions we’ve been weighed down by for a long time. This may not actually register as good news but as the teaching states: We cannot heal what we cannot or will not feel. With obliviousness is numbness which prohibits generous interaction. This is why we’ve been working on becoming self-aware and peeling the layers of conditioning which block our inner vision. As the light begins to shine through we’re able to entertain new beliefs and relationships which resonate with authenticity.
Who and what are we aligning ourselves with?
What do we desire or reject? Why?
“A carrier pigeon fulfilling its mission”
Generous Jupiter in optimistic Leo (until 8/11) is a welcome antidote to all this soul searching. First he snuggles up to Venus, moves on to Mercury (communication) and then welcomes Mars (our drive) who moves into Leo August 8. The sparkle of these encounters is a nice build up for the happy conjunction between the Sun and Venus August 15.
The August 14 New Moon (new beginnings) in Leo follows the entrance of Jupiter into service oriented Virgo supporting the mission of its Sabian Symbol. “A carrier pigeon fulfilling its mission; spirituality in terms of training for service to mankind.” Whatever the means of delivery may be, the value of the message lies in its ability to inspire.
Where do we seek inspiration to support our life ventures?
The Sun (our consciousness) entering Virgo August 23 encourages us to take a closer look at this sign so noted to do the ‘right thing’. The Latin word “virgo” translates as “self-contained” and the symbol suggests the image of the Harvest Mother. Service to others and conscientiousness are the name of the game and are laudable but we must be careful to arrange for down time to avoid stress and self-criticism which can be debilitating. Let’s take advantage of jupiter’s optimism, especially when he connects with the Sun August 26.
The Pisces Full Moon August 29 bathes us in the watery, mysterious energies of the sign’s ruling planet, Neptune. The Moon in combination with them expands our vision beyond the rational to tap into the mind’s eye as reflected by the Symbol, “Illuminated by a shaft of light, a large cross lies on rocks surrounded by sea mist; the spiritual blessing which strengthens individuals who, happen what may, stand uncompromisingly for their own truth.”
On the 31st, Venus and Mars enjoy each other’s company basking in Leo’s conviviality and let’s use them as an example to have FUN! It’s still Summer and we deserve to reward ourselves for all our efforts! Blessings!
Sally Shotwell is a life-long student of esoteric spirituality with a super-natural curiosity and an undying thirst for knowledge. Her focus on studies in Astrology have spanned decades, and have included studying with Mario C. Veo, John Joseph, Mark Husson and C. A. Brooks.
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“THE TIME HAS COME”, THE WALRUS SAID, “TO TALK OF MANY THINGS…”
by Mario C. Veo
“the time has come”, the Walrus said, “to talk of many things”
If you are the type who is quite happy to just drift through Life, accepting willy-nilly whatever may drift ashore, then… bless you, this article is not for you. (nor should you let anyone distract you from your own choices)
…If you’re like me, one who never stops asking questions (and upsets every preacher I’ve come across), or who is frankly disappointed with the sheep-like mentality of Common Man, or the simplistic answers offered by Politicians or those who clearly profit from public manipulation… then I’ve a few things I’d like to share with you.
Since my earliest years I’ve been fascinated by the concept of Self-Empowerment, by the idea of Self-Revelation and the question: “Why do most people find it all so difficult?!” Well, in fact it is not so ‘difficult’… but you must be ready for it – sounds simple, it isn’t!
First you must get to the point where you begin to ‘question everything’… hang on, don’t get mad! Let me explain – I’m not advocating that we automatically reject everything… rather that we question IF we’ve been given ‘The Whole Truth’… (and yes, my cynical self would add–question the Source of such ‘Truth’!)
Once you get there, then YOU have to start your own search – for there are many ‘truths’ out there, and YOU must find The One which belongs to you… and now accept the next step (which upsets most people). “There is no such thing as an Ultimate Truth”, everything is continually growing and evolving… and so are you! Thus, whatever you believe at any point is YOUR ‘Truth’, but if you are truly committed to your own growth, then so must this ‘Truth’ grow and change as you do…
So, what to do… what to do with you…
O.K., don’t give up yet… the Spiritual Path offers some great guidelines (which we can all embrace, no matter our Lineage).
- Stop being so reactive… emotions are great when you’re playing and relaxing… not so much when you’re trying to figure things out.
- Don’t be fooled by your Beliefs… for they’re simple a reflection of those who ‘taught’ you – often for their own benefit… or, at least, limited by their own search for Knowledge (which isn’t where you are).
- Create a ‘direct link’ between your Self and Spirit… hold on, there is a prior step to this…
3-a. Get rid of all your Negative Experiences… your pains/hurts/traumas create a Lower Resonance within yourself, which distorts any/all Communication with Spirit. - Finally, create the most joyful, rewarding, loving Life you can possible imagine… but don’t stop there…
Which brings me to this month’s classes – we are dedicating this month (in keeping with its Royal Designation**look up its original meaning if you don’t believe me) to the correct Expansion of our Consciousness… to our Liberation from our Wounded Identity and Negative Life’s Experiences… to creating a place for Spirit… and demonstrating our true Radiant Self.
So… are you ready for this? (and yes, you can still have all the ice cream you want – after all, Spirit created everything… so, bless it and enjoy!!)
Mario C. Veo is a teacher of Spiritual Science and a Healing Arts Practitioner. He teaches classes and individuals on Personal Transformation and the Expansion of Consciousness. Mario is available for personal guidance and consultations on Tuesday afternoons at the Shining Lotus™ Bookstore.
MARIO’S TUESDAY CLASSES
LIVING FROM OUR HEART… OUR CRAZY EMOTIONS
August 4, 2015. 6:30 – 8 pm. $20.
THE EGO & THE SPIRITUAL PATH… ILLUSIONS & DELUSIONS OF A SELF-CENTERED REALITY
August 11, 2015. 6:30 – 8 pm. $20.
THE MIND – ITS GIFTS, POWERS, & BINDINGS…”AS YOU THINK, SO BE IT!”
August 18, 2015. 6:30 – 8 pm. $20.
HIGHER CONSCIOUSNESS… GATEWAY TO SPIRIT, & TO OUR PERSONAL TRANSFORMATION
August 25, 2015. 6:30 – 8 pm. $20.
Call 303-758-9113 to reserve your seat.
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A PRACTICAL GUIDE TO TAROT READING
with Mo Abdelbaki
Saturdays, August 15 & 22, 2015.
1 pm to 4 pm. $80.00 for both classes.
Tarot is a philosophy, a way of living and much more than just a tool for divination. In the hands of a Master, any question can be answered and a new confidence won in every part of your personal world. Mo’s mastery of the Art of Tarot will help bring the cards to life and set you on a journey of knowledge, clarity and happiness.
You will learn how to present a reading with the Tarot. You’ll learn about the World of Tarot and the proper approach for asking questions, as well as techniques for personal development. If you have any interest in learning this powerful art, or improving your skills, don’t miss this limited opportunity.
MO ABDELBAKI – Some consider him a local celebrity – reclusive and yet prolific. Of Egyptian heritage, Mo Abdelbaki has been a student of the mysteries for over fifty years and has been a professional consultant for over thirty. His intensive studies have encompassed Vedic Astrology, Tarot, I Ching, Hermetic Qabalism, Runes and numerous other spiritual systems.
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LET’S GET STONED – A $5 MEETUP GROUP
with Meghan Taft
Wednesday, August 12, 2015. 7 – 9 pm. $5.
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Hey Everyone! I hope you’re getting excited because I have picked the next three stones for the upcoming meetup, and these are really fun! The stones are Opal, a beautiful stone sometimes with iridescent inclusions, and sometimes opaque that can vary in color. Tourmaline, a translucent and brightly colored stone that forms in a variety of colors. And Petalite, a translucent to clear stone, that also forms in pink, gray, red-white, and green-white. These are some of my favorite stones to work with and their energies are so much fun to explore! Don’t forget to bring your pieces if you have any, otherwise bring yourself, so come on out to Shining Lotus on Wednesday and Let’s Get Stoned!
Please contact Meghan Taft at 303-789-0646 and ask for ext 47 to sign up for the group, admission is $5, we will go over a different set of stones each month and you will be emailed the updated info for each group.
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INTRO FOR HALLOWQUEST TAROT AND SPIRITUALITY CLASS
with Andarta
Sunday, August 23, 2015. 2 – 3 pm. FREE.
She will be offering a series of 9 classes for $30 per class or $200 for all if pre-registered by September 1, 2015, on the following dates:______________________
SIMPLETALES ASTROLOGY: A LOOK AT THE MONTH AHEAD
with C. A. Brooks
Sunday, August 2, 2015. 2 – 3 pm. FREE PRESENTATION.
If you are thinking about your future, your past, or just your place in the physical present, you owe yourself a visit with C. A. Brooks. C. A. has been a student of astrology for more than 25 years and a professional astrologer for over 2 decades. She has studied Tarot, Feng Shui, Space Clearing and Animal Communication. Join C. A. and friends for a fun and informational look at the astrology of the month ahead, and you may even get a personal Tarot mini-reading. Don’t miss this class. Call 303-758-9113 to register.
C. A. Brooks has been a student of astrology for 25 years and a professional Astrologer for more than two decades. Her astrological experience was started by a series of classes from Colorado’s leading astrology expert, Gayle Bachicha in the 1980′s at the Metaphysical Bookstore. In addition to astrology, her training includes Instinctive Feng Shui, Space and Clutter Clearing, Voyager Tarot, and Animal Communications, working closely with animal communicator, Joan Ranquet. C. A. is certified as a Soul Coach by Denise Linn and as an Angel Therapy Practitioner by Doreen Virtue. She is also a popular advisor on 12Listen, an instructor on 12Academy, writer of the “Week Ahead” column for “Mark’s Power Peek” at 12House, and host of the number one rated weekly radio program, “Simple Tales: Where Astrology and Spiritual Alchemy Rocks” on 12Radio.
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RITUALS THAT INVOKE SPIRIT’S BLESSINGS – $10 WORKSHOP
with Mario C. Veo
Sunday, August 9, 2015. 2 – 3 pm. $10
From the very beginning of Time, Humans have used Rituals and Ceremonies as a way to ‘speak to Spirit’, and ask for its Blessings… and Spirit has always joyfully responded! Join us as we explore the many wonderful ways to invoke Spirit’s Blessings – from Love to Health and Wealth… to Guidance and Protection. Call 303-758-9113 to register.
Mario C. Veo is a teacher of Spiritual Science and a Healing Arts Practitioner. He teaches classes and individuals on Personal Transformation and the Expansion of Consciousness. Mario is available for personal guidance and consultations on Tuesday afternoons at the Shining Lotus™ Bookstore.