Encore Publication: This article was first published in the August 2012 issue of our newsletter. We thank Bruce Johnson for allowing us to share his writings and insights into the ancient mysteries and the occult.

The Egyptian Thoth, also known as Hermes Trismegistus, is credited with authoring over 20,000 books before the year 3000 BC. His book subjects include those of science, medicine, law, music, religion, art, occultism, mathematics, astronomy, letters, history, and philosophy. The Hermetic Wisdom taught millennia ago by the ibis-headed god Thoth can shed light on many contemporary questions today.

The book Divine Pymander contains altered fragments from some of the Books of Thoth. Thoth teaches through the Pymander that divine thought is the basis of reality. Thoth is sometimes depicted with a seven-rayed solar disc on his head, indicating his divine intelligence and link with the Sun. Thoth-Hermes was traditionally related to the yellow ray and to Mercury, the scribe and messenger of the gods, who receives his wisdom from the Sun, the Solar Logos of our solar system.

Concerning religion, Thoth wrote of a unified one God that was infinite, invisible and incomprehensible to human minds, and not of a God who is a limited human-appearing being. The immortality and goodness of the human soul and the progressive development of the entire universe through natural law were basic doctrines. Soul liberation was achieved through lifetimes of personal effort and merit and not through the washing away of a mythical Original Sin. Specific Books of Thoth outlined the processes of the spiritual creation and evolution of man and all the kingdoms of life on our planet Earth, as well as on other planets. Hermetic symbols can be effectively used as a key for an esoteric interpretation of the Bible in contrast to its more common “dead letter” interpretation.

The ancient Egyptians comprehended secrets of nature’s duality and of many subtle forms of energy not yet understood by orthodox science. Egyptian Mystery Schools, unlike most modern scientists, taught in the absolute existence of the akasa, sometimes called the ether, and its multi-fold expression on all planes of life.

The Laws of Nature taught by Thoth seem to contradict the Big Bang theory with its violent, sudden beginning to our universe. Hermetic doctrine teaches that nature moves in slow harmony in the evolutionary process, with no violent transitions or sudden changes, despite physical appearances. Hermetic doctrine reveals that our present universe to be only one in an infinite chain of universes, each the predecessor and cause of the latter. Each physical universe is created as a result of the out breathing of the Divine Breath, or the divine motion of the Causeless Cause, and with the in-breathing of the Divine Breath, will disappear into unfathomable Deity to sleep until the next out breathing. He further taught that no physical form can come into objective existence before its subjective manifestation was created. This shows that all physical forms have an underlying physically- invisible spiritual counterpart. Hermes taught that spiritual and physical evolution are one, integrated, and parallel each other in the well known occult axiom-“As above, so below”.

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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BEARS DON’T DANCE!
by Mario C. Veo

As has always been the case since the very beginning of Time, the Hunter rises early in the day, even before the Sun, so he can stalk his prey … and calls this ‘the circle of Life and Death’, and with such a belief he feeds himself. So today the Hunter has risen even as the Moon still shines, for he needs not only food but also furs, for the bitter winds of winter quickly waken – the trek down to the river will take a good long while but it will all be worth it for many animals will be drawn to water.

And now here he sits, hidden up a tree, waiting patiently for his chosen prey … bunnies approach cautiously, quickly darting in and out, but they are too small for such a mighty hunter … next comes a shy young fox, but too scrawny for his taste … no, he’s looking for something to match his prowess, something that will offer fame as well as food … and thus he also lets go of a young doe, after all, what is the skill in acquiring such puny adversary … Ah … but look there, following the doe is a mighty stag, proud of horns and with such a haughty demeanor [some would have said ‘majestic’, but such is not the way of this hunter]. And so he lifts his mighty weapon … carefully takes aim … his breath suspended … and just as he’s about to strike the rebellious stag is alert … and with a snort and a flash of hooves he dances away, soon hidden by the forest.

Disgusted the hunter is about to lower his weapon, but just then a great bear breaks through the clearing … thundering it moves to the water’s edge, carefully lowers its muzzle to drink of the saving waters … The mighty hunter cannot believe his good fortune … with blood thundering in his veins and lust in his eyes, he strikes the fatal blow… just one, that’s all is needed to end such a [can we say it] majestic beast … Victory at last, indeed a proud kill, for few other hunters have ever made such a catch … Ah, the glory that awaits him, and the great tales that will be told in the village upon his victorious return …

But just as he’s about to descend from his perch, there comes stumbling out a bear cub, looking for his mother … rushing forward towards her still figure … crying, uncomprehending why she lies so still …

“How well the gods favor me” says the hunter “Look they gift my skills not only with fur and food, but also with a play toy ! He shall make a fine dancing bear, and earn me much coin at the next fair … and when he’s too old for cuteness, then he can be baited for sport. Oh, yes ! the gods truly favor my mighty prowess” and in so saying he clubs the cub unconscious [the better to restrain him].

A year has passed, the cub now half grown is chained to a post, brought out for drunken pleasure and for easy coin – yes, this mighty hunter has grown fat and soft – he no longer hunts … No, why should he when so many are willing to pay good coin to see his dancing bear [well, it stands and growls, and when you poke it with a stick it lounges trying to strike at the offending humanoid … I guess you could call this ‘dancing’]

Ah … the mighty hunter has developed a taste for liquor – such noble deed, such snoring finesse, such deep slumber … Has he forgotten the circle of Life and Death … ? Has he forgotten the patient stalking, waiting for just the right moment for that single strike … well tonight is the refresher course … You see, the post which once was strong enough to hold a mere cub has long been wearing down … and the mighty chain that so imprisoned the beast is now tired with rust … and tonight he shall learn that bears don’t dance … tonight the circle will be complete …

Ah, the sweet taste of Karma …

Mario C. Veo was born in Italy and grew up in Africa. From an early age his love for Spirituality and Metaphysics led him to explore a wide range of disciplines. He has studied with Sufis, Shamans and Spiritual Masters from around the world. Mario is a senior T’ai Chi and Chi Gong instructor, a Spiritual Counselor, Shaman and Healer, and teaches classes and individuals on Personal Transformation, Empowerment, Manifestation and Spiritual Alignments. He is available for personal guidance and consultations.

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PLANETS AND POSSIBILITIES: A LOOK AT THE ASTROLOGY OF AUGUST 2017
by Sally Shotwell

It’s Eclipse Season which creates a feeling of anticipation as to what is in store for us personally and globally. Fortunately, long ago astrologers identified the astronomical points called the North Node and South Node, whose placement by sign determines where, when and how long the duration of an eclipse will be. We know that Closure and Letting Go are issues we face at this time, they are followed by the possibility of Creative Renewal in our lives. This series of eclipses present this polarity with the South Node in intellectual, airy Aquarius and the North in noble, fiery Leo. Aquarius represents Detached Humanitarianism which, when carried too far, can cause us to lose sight of value of the individuals we are and our contributions to the greater good. Leo, at his best, reveres the long process we engage in, striving to identify and embrace our unique potential. We see how reconciling these different influences within ourselves is tricky and we need a push to grow beyond influences which restrict us. Change is now the name of the game, prodding us to grow and engage in the excitement!

August 2 Uranus, The Great Awakener, turns retrograde fiery Aries and assists us in turning inward to reflect on the staggering changes we’ve experienced in recent years associated with his ongoing confrontation with ruthless Pluto. Pluto himself in structure-oriented earthy Capricorn is harassing bountiful Jupiter, in relationship-minded, airy Libra and digging up psychic material which may be painful but necessary for us to acknowledge. Otherwise it continues to fester like a low grade infection. Yuck!

With a revised perspective we are alert to the possibilities the August 7 Full Moon(culmination) Lunar Eclipse in Aquarius, opposite the Sun in Leo, hold for us. The Sabian Symbol is; “A big business man at his desk: the ability to organize the many aspects of an enterprise involving a large group of human beings.” As we consider the principles of the Age of Aquarius, let’s not minimize our own power and ability to contribute to group cohesion, valuing our unique contributions to a general wellbeing. Total uniformity is really boring!

August 12 Mercury(our thought-processes) turns backward(retrograde) in practical, earthy Virgo and we know the drill. We’re reminded to show patience with ourselves and others and not allow ourselves to rush into any decisions. During this period we can address already existing projects and clear the decks for future ventures. August 13 a reassuring connection between the Sun and serious Saturn in belief-oriented, fiery Sagittarius put their heads together and prod us to have fun while remaining aware of our actions. Let’s take advantage of this opportunity since August 15 lovely Venus in sensitive, watery Cancer is confronted by Pluto, destabilizing her emotional equilibrium. Let’s keep in mind his penchant to dig up long buried material of our own which surprises us.

Are we allowing a space in our schedule during which we can just chill out and let ourselves slowly process what is going on within and around us?

Are we being gentle with ourselves and not judging ourselves harshly?

August 20 Mars(our vitality) in confident Leo touches base with optimistic Jupiter and share their good cheer with us. Their energy, combined with the self-reflection we are practicing, pays off big time when the benevolent Sun and brilliant Uranus also arrive on the scene. They inspire us to release restricting thought patterns which inhibit us from welcoming the unexpected. We’re being prepared to really benefit from the astrological highlight of the year!

This, of course, is the August 21 Total Solar New Moon(new beginnings) Eclipse in Leo. Leo rules the heart and heart-centered creativity which transcends our rational minds, bringing to the fore our yearning to become complete beyond the fragmentation our realm of duality imposes upon us. The Symbol presents a hopeful message for us. “A mermaid emerges from the ocean waves ready for rebirth in human form; the stage at which an intense feeling – intuition rising from the unconscious is about to take form as a conscious thought.” As we nurture and trust our instincts to venture into the symbolic world of archetypes, new horizons and dimensions await us. Heres where our interest in the symbolic language of astrology can guide us.

For the time being, however, we have the Moon(our emotions) entering Virgo followed August 22 by the Sun. Their “feet on the ground” take on things helps us to not get off track as we approach the demands we face from our every day lives. Mercury is retrograde until September 5 and reminds us that restraint is helpful while we assimilate our altered perceptions which may have surfaced during recent days. Change and growth are related and we’re encouraged to honor and not rush the ongoing process.

What impressions do we have of our Eclipse experience?

Are you able to compare notes with others and discuss their observations?

August 25 Teacher Saturn turns direct and guides us to turn our attention from introspection to our outer circumstances. He always demands we be conscious of what we’re doing with our time. He is responsible for guiding us to greater maturity and offers great rewards after our struggles.

Where have we refined our perceptions to become more inclusive and tolerant?

Answers may come to us as Mercury returns to Leo August 31 and triggers the point of the Lunar Eclipse. This means that new energy is made available to us and who knows what this means for us? This whole month is jam packed with activity and a sense of mystery. It is so nice we’re on this wild ride together!

Blessings and Love!

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PALMISTRY – THE OWNER’S MANUAL OF YOUR LIFE
by Mario C. Veo

Palmistry is a fascinating and unique study – it is both an Art and a Science – a science for it is a ‘language’ which any one call learn … and an art which expands your creativity, and helps you balance and manifest your Life as you best wish it to be. Basically Palmistry is a messages from your Soul written as the lines in your hand, guiding you towards happiness and fulfillment … and also shows you whether you are still ‘on-track’ or have deviated from your Destiny. It clearly shows you your Karmas, challenges and obstacles … not to limit you, but to help you resolve them.

Palmistry offers you great insight into your Gifts and Abilities, and how they have become affected – positively or negatively – by your Thought and Actions … and what you can do about it all. Palmistry is one of the most powerful tools we can develop to help us shape our Life, to help us not only grow, but flourish and be truly happy.

We are starting an in-depth study program which will cover both beginners and advanced teachings – so no prior experience is necessary. We will meet for 4 Tuesday evenings, from 6.30 to 8.00 pm, starting August 15th. Class size is very limited so registration is strongly advised. For registration please phone the Shining Lotus at 303-758-9113.

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AUTHOR VISIT
DIANNA CATES DUNN, author of “The Truths of Tula”

Sunday, August 6, 2017. 2 – 3:30 pm. FREE PRESENTATION.

A Colorado artist discovered her muse in a painting where Tula emerged unintended, unannounced and unexpectedly captivating. Two years later, Tula’s truths and her muse’s voice continue to infuse a body of work by Danna Cates Dunn that offers each of us a shared view of Tula’s joyful, riotously colorful and deeply insightful world. A book you’ll want to own and enjoy over and over again for a lifetime.

A book signing will follow. Call 303-758-9113 to register.

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CREATING HEALTHY RELATIONSHIPS GROUP
with Norma Mitchell

Wednesday, August 9, 2017. 6:30 – 8:30 pm. $25.

What makes up your personal energy field? Why does it have much more impact on your relationships than your looks, intellect, or financial status. Whether you’re with a partner or looking for one, you do have the power to change your relationship energy and manifest the intimacy, reciprocity, and true love that you deserve! Join Norma in this monthly group and learn how to create a healthy relationship with anyone in your life. Call 303-758-9113 to register.

Norma Mitchell. As a spiritual counselor, medical intuitive, business consultant, medium, teacher and hypno-therapist with 30 years experience “Helping People Help Themselves”, Norma has appeared on television, radio talk shows and in newspaper articles. Norma’s experience is varied from individual sessions in person, phone and mail; teaching classes such as “Opening to Your Full Potential” and “Use Intuition to Increase Your Business”; helping people resolve addictions, enhance performance, alter life patterns and outdated beliefs through hypno-therapy and relaxation techniques; business consulting to troubleshoot, act as liaison between management and support personnel, screen applicants for hiring and personnel for promotions; speaker for business and social groups; and has been a guest counselor for a therapist’s talk show.
Norma Mitchell has been working with clients at the Shining Lotus™ since 2008. She provides Intuitive readings every Monday from 10am to 6pm and also works from 11am to 6pm on the second Saturday of every month.

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CREATE YOUR OWN TALISMAN – $10 WORKSHOP
with Mario C. Veo

Sunday, August 13, 2017. 10:15 – 11:15 am. $10.

Talismans are wonderful tools for protection and manifestation.
In this practical workshop you will be making two Talismans according to your needs [supplies are included]
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 Tuesdays at the Shining Lotus™ Bookstore.

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THE SERAPHIM ROSE PYRAMID SYSTEM
NEW Meditation System for Our Soul’s Realization & Full Embodiment
with Liz Ann Fischer

Sunday, August 13, 2017. 2 – 3 pm. FREE PRESENTATION.

“Earth has been asleep and in the dark for a very long time. Now is the time to bring pyramid information to begin the global Awakening. Much was known that has been lost ever since that time” 8-10- 15 Light Beings Andalithar and Mishaka. The Pyramid has always been used for communication. This system of 12 symbols built around a specific pyramid is designed to work coherently to fulfill and harmonize our total being. My Seraphim Angel guides have said that this full system has not been available to us before and 2017 is the year to unveil this information. Humanity has reached the critical mass of spiritual awareness needed for this profound system to be offered for our advancement.

During this presentation you will be able to feel the energy of the guides and tools within this new system and discover the profound significance of 12 and the Rose. Plus, receive a Wave of Faith and Manifestation from Seraph ADALIAN from the Seraph’s Love and Faith Workshop. Learn how you can permanently hold the elegant Seraphic energies for your benefit, others and Earth.
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Liz Ann Fischer, Teacher of Seraphic Wisdom since 2013 and 25 yrs professional energy healing, has been helping others achieve their full potential and heart’s desire through the energy of the Seraphim Angels.

www.seraphicangelconnections.com

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PENDULUM BASICS WORKSHOP
with Marci McCaffery

Wednesday, August 16, 2017. 7 – 9pm. $25.

Are you interested in increasing your intuitive skills so you can achieve more success in life? This class is about improving your intuition using the pendulum and dowsing skills. Whether you are a business professional, a consultant, an entrepreneur, a student, or a coach, this course can help you make quicker, accurate, more efficient choices, with more certainty, and confidence. Join us on Wednesday August 16^th from 7-9PM for an informative class focusing on the Pendulum and other useful dowsing methods. Call 303-758-9113 to register

Marcia McCaffery offers an integration of 20 years advanced astrological, spiritual and wellness training. She is a NCGR Board Certified Astrologer, an accredited business/life direction coach, a numerologist, and a writer. Using astrology as a roadmap, she provides intuitive astrological counseling and the dynamics of optimum timing to open new pathways in self-discovery, personal growth, and self-empowerment.

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WHAT?? TOTAL ECLIPSE?
with Mo Abdelbaki

Sunday, August 20, 2017. 2 – 3pm. FREE PRESENTATION.

This solar eclipse on August 21st will only be seen on the North American continent. The last time a total eclipse of the sun was visible across such a wide swath of the U.S. was June 13, 1257, and the next will be January 25, 2316. In Denver, the Sun will be 92.2% hidden by the Moon at 11:47:13 am MDT for almost 3 minutes. Join Mo on the day before this huge event and find your own connection. Call 303-758-9113 to register.

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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INTRODUCTION TO TAOIST FENG SHUI
with Mario C. Veo

Sunday, Aug 27, 2017. 10:15 am – 11:15 am. FREE PRESENTATION.

Taoist Feng Shui is the original study of Energy and its impact on our environment.
It differs from other Feng Shui practices for it is not restricted by cultural symbology, nor is it limited by astrological influences. Taoist Feng Shui honors the individual and reveals how the energies are flowing – positively or negatively – both in their environment and in Life, and focuses on creating harmony and balance so that Life becomes rich and rewarding. Call 303-758-9113 to register.

https://yourpathtospirit.com

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PSYCHOMETRY FOR THE 21st CENTURY
with Marci McCaffery

Wednesday, August 30, 2017. 7 – 9 pm. $25.

Psychometry is a psychic skill that enables you to pick up information from an inanimate object. People doing psychometry readings can accurately describe someone’s characteristics, physical appearance or things that have happened to them, just by holding something along the lines of a well-worn watch or a favorite necklace of the owner. Join us on Wednesday August 30^th from 7-9 PM for an insightful class designed to heighten your extrasensory perception, by making relevant associations from an object. Call 303-758-9113 to register.

2017 August Newsletter

SHINING LOTUS™ METAPHYSICAL BOOKSTORE NEWSLETTER

AUGUST 2017

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in this issue

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THOTH AND THE BIG BANG THEORY by Bruce Johnson

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BEARS DON’T DANCE! by Mario C. Veo

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PLANETS AND POSSIBILITIES: A LOOK AT THE ASTROLOGY OF AUGUST 2017 by Sally Shotwell

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PALMISTRY – THE OWNER’S MANUAL OF YOUR LIFE by Mario C. Veo

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AUTHOR VISIT DIANNA CATES DUNN, author of “The Truths of Tula”

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CREATING HEALTHY RELATIONSHIPS GROUP with Norma Mitchell

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CREATE YOUR OWN TALISMAN – $10 WORKSHOP with Mario C. Veo

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THE SERAPHIM ROSE PYRAMID SYSTEM NEW Meditation System for Our Soul’s Realization & Full Embodiment with Liz Ann Fischer

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PENDULUM BASICS WORKSHOP with Marci McCaffery

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WHAT?? TOTAL ECLIPSE? with Mo Abdelbaki

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INTRODUCTION TO TAOIST FENG SHUI with Mario C. Veo

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PSYCHOMETRY FOR THE 21st CENTURY with Marci McCaffery

THOTH AND THE BIG BANG THEORY
by Bruce Johnson

BEARS DON’T DANCE!
by Mario C. Veo

PLANETS AND POSSIBILITIES: A LOOK AT THE ASTROLOGY OF AUGUST 2017
by Sally Shotwell

PALMISTRY – THE OWNER’S MANUAL OF YOUR LIFE
by Mario C. Veo

AUTHOR VISIT
DIANNA CATES DUNN, author of “The Truths of Tula”

CREATING HEALTHY RELATIONSHIPS GROUP
with Norma Mitchell

CREATE YOUR OWN TALISMAN – $10 WORKSHOP
with Mario C. Veo

THE SERAPHIM ROSE PYRAMID SYSTEM
NEW Meditation System for Our Soul’s Realization & Full Embodiment
with Liz Ann Fischer

PENDULUM BASICS WORKSHOP
with Marci McCaffery

WHAT?? TOTAL ECLIPSE?
with Mo Abdelbaki

INTRODUCTION TO TAOIST FENG SHUI
with Mario C. Veo

PSYCHOMETRY FOR THE 21st CENTURY
with Marci McCaffery