Praise the Lord and Pass the Ammunition

Posted on August 31, 2014 by truthsbyruth

Truths by Ruth

???????????????????????????????

Here is my fourth painting inspired by my novel, Daughter of the Howling Moon due out this November from Pen-L Publishing.

The Bible represents the villan in the story, Reverend Jedidiah Wayne. Ol’ Jed and Ol’ Scratch are partners in crime. Jed hides behind the collar. Preaching the Word while committing sins against the most innocent. It is not intended to be a cut on organized religion. No doubt, however some will perceive it that way. To those I say, bless you. Well, not really. What I really want to say, is shame on you. Enough said.

The pistol represents the co-hero in the book, Deputy Sheriff Benjamin Sol. Benjamin has lost his spiritual faith but stands strong in his belief in the physical law. But can the physical defeat the non-physical? Even he asks, “how can you shoot something that moves like smoke?”

The jaguar in the…

View original post 122 more words

Advertisement
Posted in Uncategorized | Leave a comment

The Long Island Medium-Theresa Caputo

Posted on August 22, 2014 by truthsbyruth

Truths by Ruth

When book-hunting, the first thing that draws my attention is the cover. Next to a great title, the book cover grabs by attention and makes me pick up the book. Then I flip it over to read the blurbs on the back. A great blurb, especially from someone I know or have heard of, often times determines if I buy or pass.

My new novel, Daughter of the Howling Moon, is due to be released late this year from Pen-L Publishing. I’m proud of everything I write, but this book is extra-special to me. For one thing, all of it was channeled. From the first word to the last, I depended on my character, Bethany Ann to give me her story. It wasn’t until the 12th chapter that she trusted me enough to finally give me the plot and where this story was headed. Until then, she just gave…

View original post 311 more words

Posted in Uncategorized | Leave a comment

Painting My Words-Take 2

Posted on July 12, 2014 by truthsbyruth

Truths by Ruth

IMG_0898

This is the second picture I painted inspired by my new book, Daughter of the Howling Moon. This drawing portrays the essence of the novel as opposed to an actual scene.

Benjamin Sol is the co-protagonist (like that term? I just made it up. Bethany Ann is the main character and hero, but Benjamin plays a huge part as well, thus the term.) Benjamin is the deputy sheriff of St Claire Parish. His boss, Sheriff Buford Tate sends him to the local voodooenne, Lady Tibitha . Why? Nope. Not gonna tell ya. Gotta wait for the book.

Among other witchy things, Voodoo priestess, Lady Tibitha reads tarot cards. I hit upon the idea of painting Daughter of the Howling Moon tarot cards that tell the plot of story. As you will see, there are five. Try condensing your book down into five things that describe it. Flash Fiction bite…

View original post 211 more words

Posted in Uncategorized | Leave a comment

CHANNELING THE UNIVERSE

Posted on September 14, 2013 by truthsbyruth

Cayce Edgar Cayce

What is channeling? Very simply put, channeling is receiving messages from a higher connection. A person usually goes into a trace state and relays information received from another, higher source.

Edgar Cayce, aka the Sleeping Prophet, is about the most famous channeler out there. While in a hypnotic trance he would predict such things as wars, healing, Atlantis, reincarnation, the Akashic records, and the end of the world.

If you recall the movie Ghost with Patrick Swayze and Demi Moore, Woopie Goldberg’s character channeled the ghost of Patick Swayze’s character. At one point, she allowed Patrick to enter her body so that he could speak and react directly with Demi Moore’s character.

Pretty cool stuff. Right?

When I started my spiritual journey I wanted to channel and was pissed off royalty that I couldn’t. Here again, I was making something hard out of something easy. I went to various channeling sessions given by others. I thought I had to put myself into a trace, shut my eyes, the whole nine yards. It wasn’t until I started writing that I discoveded I was channeling.

As a writer I’m often asked where the ideas for my characters come from. I’ve also been asked how do I make my dialogue so real? The characters so real. Well, here’s the deal. I channel them. While typing, my characters come into me and I am literaly writing with their fingers using their exact words and stories.

Now, I know there are many out there who are rolling their eyes and thinking, “Wow, this girl is a nut job.” I used to say this doesn’t bother me, but to be honest, their doubt and ridicle does. A closed mind is just plain stupid. There I said it. Deal with it.

Currently, I am working on my next novel, The Church of the Howling Moon.” This book, more than all the other books and stories I’ve written, is strickly channeled information. All I had when I started the story was the title. I typed it on the paper and then asked myself, “What next.” The next thing I wrote was, “I bow before no man but kneel only at the altar of the Church of the Howling Moon.” Where the hell did that come from?

When the time came to give a name to my main character, without even thinking I typed out Bethany Ann. What? My women characters are strong. They usually have names like Raven and Dixie. Bethany Ann is too girly for me. But. It wasn’t me I was dealing with. It was Bethany Ann. Let me tell you, Bethany Ann is very powerful and can hold her own.

I literally wrote the first ten chapter strickly listening to Bethany Ann. I had no idea where she was leading me. I’d end on chapter, wonder to myself what I could write for the next one, and there it was. The words flowed and it the best writing I’ve done to date. Bethany Ann did end up giving me the story plot and some idea where this story was going. However, she still throws in twists and turns that floor me.

I know where the story is headed now, but have no idea how to get there. I’ve spoken with my writing buddies concerning the ending. We’ve kicked around dozens of ideas but none really have hit home. I’m not worried. When the time comes, Bethany Ann will tell me.

I believe all great writers channel.

So, my wish came true.

I am a writing channelor.

Posted in PARANORMAL | Tagged , , , , , , , , | 5 Comments

TO QUIJA OR NOT TO QUIJA

Posted on June 22, 2013 by truthsbyruth

quija

Ah, the Quija board. What a delightful dilemma.

For those of you not familiar with the Quija board, let me enlighten you. The Quija board, or spirit board, or talking board is a flat board with the letters of the alphabet, numbers 0-9, the words, yes, no, hello, and goodbye printed on its face. There is also a heart-shaped piece of wood called a planchette. The object of this “game” is to place your fingers lightly on the planchette and wait for the spirits to send a message by moving the pointer to various letters and spelling out words.

Elijah Bond and Charles Kennard invented the board and planchette in 1890. Kennard came up with the name, Quija while working the board. He claimed the word is ancient Egyptian meaning, “good luck.” Parker Brother
Games made the first boards until Hasbro, Inc bought them out.In fact, my ex-husband made the boards while working at Parker Brothers. While Bond conceived Quija as a harmless parlor game, Pearl Curren projected it into the Spiritworld when she used the board as a divining tool during World War I.

I loved the Quija board. Notice I said, loved. (past-tense)

I was introduced to the board at Girl Scout camp. A camper pulled out the board she’d brought from home. We sat around the campfire and “played” the game. Of course, everyone asked the board who they were going to marry and girly questions of that sort. supposedly we got the spirit of John F. Kennedy. Who knows?

I also worked at Parker Brother Games in the sales office. During a storm that knocked out the electricity, we passed the afternoon with Quija. My partner on the planchette said she was a seventh daughter of a seventh mother of a seventh of something which made her very spiritual. All I know is, that pointer flew across the board with her and I. I was NOT moving it. She was NOT moving it. Freaked me out.

I was hooked.

Science has a fancy name to explain the movement of the pointer, ideomotor response. It means the person controlling the pointer is unconsciously moving it. Yeah, right. Nope. I ain’t buying it.

The dilemma with the board is that organized religions consider it to be a tool of Satan and warn their followers not to fool with it. The board brings in demonic possession. Now, here’s the deal. While I don’t agree with them 100%, the board is a portal that connects us with the spiritworld and therefore, one should use extreme caution.

There are lower-based energies floating around out there who delight in screwing with mortals. They love to attach themselves to some innocent who dapples in the supernatural and once they do, all hell can and does break loose. Who needs that?

I don’t fool with the Quija board any longer. Why tempt fate? I can hardly handle my everyday life, why do I want to willingly complicate matters even more and have to deal with something I can’t handle? My advise is, DO NOT FOOL WITH QUIJA. However, if you must, put up protection. Say the Lord’s prayer. Light candles. visualize a protective bubble encasing you. AND make it plain right from the beginning that only the highest, most loving spirits are invited to the party. Every thing or everyone else must stay away.

To Quija or not to Quija? That is the question.

Beware of the answer.

Posted in PARANORMAL | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | 2 Comments

CARD OF THE WEEK: THE WHEEL OF FORTUNE

Posted on June 16, 2013 by truthsbyruth

wheel

The tenth Major Arcana card is The Wheel of Fortune. It is the Karma card.

Very plainly explained, Karma means, “what goes around, comes around.”

I’m a firmer believer in Karma and try only to accumulate good Karma, not bad. Karma follows you from one lifetime to another. Each lifetime you have the opportunity to satisfy whatever Karma dogs your steps so that you won’t drag it into another reincarnation. The goal is not to rack up any more bad Karma along the way. Otherwise the cycle will never be broken.

I believe I’ve satisfied all Karma I drug into this lifetime. I am Karma free, baby and try very, very hard to stay that way. I now have what my witchy friends and I call, “boomerang Karma.” Anytime I slip backwards into old habits of trashing someone or thinking thoughts of revenge and payback, Karma immediately hits me upside the head. This phenomena can be quite painful (literally and figuratively) which is why I strive to stay on the straight and narrow. However, I’m comforted knowing that I’ll pay for my wickedness right away instead of it being a ball and chain I carry from life to life.

The Wheel of Fortune means a turning point in your life is coming. It stands for opportunities, progress, advancement, and the beginning of an new cycle. The card is ruled by the planet Jupiter and the god Zeus which and who, are bringers of good fortune.

Thinking outside the box, anytime a client throws the Wheel of Fortune card, I suggest if they are going to a casino, to play The Wheel of Fortune slot machine. Ya’ got nothing to lose and everything to gain.

Message for the week: Do something positive. Create good Karma.

Posted in PARANORMAL | Tagged , , , , | Leave a comment

CARD OF THE WEEK: THE HERMIT

Posted on June 9, 2013 by truthsbyruth

hermit.

I’ve said before that I have favorite Tarot cards. The Hermit is right there at the top.

Client reactions to this card puzzle me. Believe it or not, most of them gasp and think the card is a bad sign. First of all, I don’t think any card is a bad. Yes, there are cards that look damn scary and do symbolize the non-productive aspects of life. But every cloud has a silver lining, and so do the cards. Second, why does this card look spooky? The first thought that went through my head when I saw the card, was loneliness. It is the Hermit, after all.

The Hermit holds his light high and shows others the way. Teachers, counselors, preachers, and instructors could throw this card. When you think about it, Jesus would throw this card in a New York minute. Now, that’s a bold statement! Jesus getting a tarot reading. Oh, boy. I can see it now. Over-zealous religious folk are gathering the wood to burn me at the stake right now. But why? Didn’t Jesus light the way?

The Hermit looks for answers that rest inside you. The card’s astrological sign is Virgo. Virgos are notorious planners. They have a plan A, B, C,D and always an F. The Hermit, therefore signifies plans and ideas in the making.
The cards stands for wisdom, solitude, peace, and humility. The Hermit is always searching and gathering information that he/she shares without preaching or judgement. If a client threw this card, depending on the cards surrounding it, it could mean they need to seek outside counsel for their situation. Or it could mean they need quiet time. A vacation away from the hustle and bustle of life to rest, relax, and think about what it is that’s bothering them.

The flip-side of this card (for me) is that “it’s lonely at the top.” Everyone rushes to The Hermit seeking advice, but who does he run to? If reversed in a reading, (Reversed means the card is up-side-down to the reader) it can mean ill-advice and deception or the client is refusing outside help.

Here’s the message for the upcoming week: Quiet time does a body good.

If you are bothered by a problem and can’t find the solution, TURN OFF THE DAMN CELLPHONE, STOP TEXTING, GET OFF FACEBOOK AND TWITTER. Pour a glass of wine, sit on the deck, quiet the soul, and go within for the answer. You might be surprised how easy it comes.

Posted in PARANORMAL | Tagged , , , , , | Leave a comment

CARD OF THE WEEKS: STRENGTH

Posted on June 1, 2013 by truthsbyruth

Strength card

The eighth card in the Major Arcana is Strength. This is another favorite card of mine.

In older decks, this card was often labeled The Power card. The card’s ruling sign is Leo. Leo the Lion. Tons of power and strength there, so it’s only fitting that the King of Beasts is portrayed front and center. But what about the girl? Where does she fit in?

This card is not only about strength but balance as well. The gentle woman needs the hot, roaring energy of the lion. The lion needs the gentleness of the woman. Together, strength and gentleness combine to make powerful energy. This card represents the taming and understanding of our wild side or the melding of the emotional and physical. The card shows up when strength and power of action is needed. It’s confidence and courage. A diplomat or arbitrator would draw this card. But zoo keepers and vets could throw this card as well for obvious reasons.

Of course, the down side of the card is the exact opposite, as is usually the case. indecision, weakness, surrender, and defeat.

I read somewhere that this card represents the Bible story of Daniel in the Lion’s Den. Daddy gave me great advice once concerning this story. He said it’s one thing to be thrown into the Lion’s Den but quite another to jump into the pit. Meaning, wisdom and self-control verses stupidity and foolishness. If thrown into a hairy situation against your will, you will be protected. But to willingly jump into harm’s way? Well . . . that’s a different story.

So what is the message for the upcoming week? Think before you act. Temper anger and unproductive energy with gentleness and kindness. Don’t be so hard on yourself. Don’t jump to conclusions. Listen to your little voice and don’t march willingly into hell even for a heavenly cause.

Oh! Almost forgot. Pet a lion this week. Ha! Kidding. (That would be jumping into the lion’s den.) Pet a cat or dog instead. It does a body good.

Posted in PARANORMAL | Tagged , , , , | 2 Comments

CARD OF THE WEEK: THE FOOL

Posted on May 26, 2013 by truthsbyruth

Not only am I an award-winning author, I’m an intuitive tarot card reader as well. I thought it would be fun to share my thoughts on the tarot and the meaning of the cards.

Tarot reading can be as complicated or as simple as you wish to make it. While I think it is important to know the basics of tarot reading, such as the different suits, what they’re called, and the meaning of each, I don’t get caught-up in all the mechanics like some readers do. I also go against a few traditional beliefs of tarot readers. I hold to the “Keep it Sublimly Simple” principle when I read. My readings are energetic, joyful, short, sweet, and stright-to-the-point. Does that make me a better or poorer reader? You be the judge.

There are as many decks of tarot cards as there are stars. I’ve tried reading with various decks but always come back to the Rider-Watie. I do wrap them in silk, and I did sleep with the deck under my pillow when I first got them. I consider the cards old friends.

In addition, there are many different lay-outs or spreads a reader can use. I use a variation of the Celtic Cross Spread. However there are times when I simply “toss out” the cards in no certain order, read in no certain order, or pay little mind if the card is reversed or forward to me. I go where my guides and angels direct me.

The tarot deck consists of 78 cards and are divided into the major and minor Arcana. Each week I will discuss my thoughts and ideas on the cards that comprise the Major Arcana. Keep in mind, each reader has their own thoughts on the cards and their own way of reading. To my mind, no one way is better than the other. Just different. I realize that some readers out there may disagree greatly with my methods. Hmm . . . to each his own.

This week, I want to talk about the first card in the Major Arcana: THE FOOL.

I look at the major arcana as the steps and events we experience in life. The minor arcana helps to explain and clarify the Major cards. You will notice the number assigned to THE FOOL is a zero. (As a side note, everything drawn of the card is significant. Every thing from the numbers at the top, to the smallest of detail are symbols and signs, and are there for a reason.)

THE FOOL, (for me), represents new beginnings, hope, optimism. Remember how you felt when you graduated high-school or college? The world was your oyster. Nothing was impossible. Notice the man on the card. The sun is shining on his back, he holds a white rose of hope in his hand, his faithful companions (represented by the white dog) urge him forward. If he falls off the edge of the cliff, no big deal, he’ll just learn to fly. Expect this card to show up not only at graduations but when new business and career opportunities are possible as well or when any new possibilities are afloat.

On the flip side however, THE FOOL can also mean just that; you are about to do something foolish, reckless, or impulsive. People who are scattered, who waste their creativity, their potential and shun opportunities, who go through life clueless, often draw this card.

I have many favorite cards in the tarot deck, and THE FOOL is one of these. I love the feeling of freedom, the “kick ass and take names” attitude it projects.

Look at the card. What does it say to you? Let me know. And remember, no answer is wrong, right, or stupid.

Questions? Bring them on!

Next up: THE MAGICIAN.

Posted in PARANORMAL | Tagged , , | Leave a comment

CARD OF THE WEEK: THE MAGICIAN

Posted on May 26, 2013 by truthsbyruth

foutune teller 1

One of the most interesting and fun times I’ve had as a Tarot reader is group readings. I’ve read cards at birthday parties, bachelorette parties, and girl’s night out. Women seem to be more drawn to tarot, but that’s not to say I’ve never read for men. I think men are more hesitate to have their feelings and deep, dark secrets reveled. What do you think?

Group readings are fun for me because I encourage everyone to join in the fun. Ideas and inspiration come from many sources and I love hearing everyone’s take on the cards. Sometimes it opens up a whole new line of thought for me about a particular card. Following along this line of, “inspiration comes from many places,” last night while trying to turn my brain off and go to sleep, a new thought popped in my head concerning this week’s card, THE MAGICIAN

Magician

THE MAGICIAN is card number I in the Major Arcana. In last week’s discussion of THE FOOL, I liked it to graduation from High School or college. THE MAGICIAN is what happens after graduation. The card stands for new beginnings. For example, a new job. You will note on the card, that the magician has all his tools laid out on the table in front on him. He’s done with education and homework and is ready to put that knowledge to work. He is the master, the creator of new ideas. His wand is held high, a symbol of “I can do anything I desire. I have the power.” THE MAGICIAN is confident, intuitive, and willing to take risks. He knows his own potential and isn’t afraid to think outside the box. He wears the red robe of authority.

Last week I mentioned that Tarot can be as complicated or as easy as you wish to make it. The cards involve a knowledge of numerology, astrology, and the Qabalah to name only a few. (I know just enough about all of these to be really dangerous.) THE MAGICIAN is tied to the planet, Mercury. Mercury controls communications. Therefore, public speakers, TV news anchors, etc, etc, often draw this card. He is also tied to THOTH, the god of magic and writing. Authors may draw his card when thinking of new book ideas.

THE MAGICIAN plans and arranges his life.

Now, what happens on the flip side? THE MAGICIAN can also be timid, shy, have self esteem issues. He has trouble expressing himself. Sometimes people with learning disabilities pull this card.

I mentioned I had another thought last night for this card. It occurred to me that a magician depends on illusion, tricks, and slight of hand. Not everything you see is real. Trickery may be afoot. I will keep this in mind the next time THE MAGICIAN is thrown.

Next week: THE HIGH PRIESTESS.

Posted in PARANORMAL | Tagged , , , , , | Leave a comment