The Goddess Kuan Yin

Kuan Yin is believed to have been the daughter of a wealthy, cruel man who desired her to marry for status. Gentle Kuan Yin, in hopes of gaining spiritual enlightenment, disobeyed her father and entered a temple. There, she quickly became known for her kind deeds and compassion. But her father was so angered by her act that he had the girl killed. For her good works while alive, Kuan Yin was brought to heaven where she could enjoy an eternity of bliss.
But as she searched for heaven's gates, Kuan Yin heard a cry from below. It was someone suffering upon the earth, someone in need of her help. Then and there she vowed never to leave humanity until every last person was free from woe. For this vow, Kuan Yin was transformed into a Goddess.
Today the goddess Kuan Yin is widely worshipped. She is believed to heal those sick of heart and body, mothers and children in distress, and even seafarers in storms.
To often in life we are overwhelmed by troubles. Sorrow encompasses us-and there is only so much we can do. For those beset by worries or illness, the merciful goddess Kuan Yin is a wonderful goddess to invoke.
Many believe that the magickal act of saying Kuan Yin's name helps the troubled gain comfort. Others choose to go on pilgrimages to the goddess's temple on the mountain of Miao Feng Shan; to win her notice, they shake rattles and other noisemakers as they pray.
The next time you feel overwhelmed with worries, spend some time in nature. Choose a place that is beautiful and serene; even if you live in a city, a quiet glade of trees is often only a train ride away. Bring with you a small offering of fruit or a flower for Kuan Yin.
When you reach your destination, take some time to walk around. The act of walking suggests the passage of time: Time will pass and so will your problems, as difficult as that may be to believe.
When you find a quiet spot where is in unlikely you will be disturbed, sit and unburden yourself to Kuan Yin. State aloud what is bothering you and why. She will understand, compassionate goddess that she is. Take your time. Remember, the act of saying Kuan Yin's name aloud is believed to bring peace to even the most troubled of hearts.
When you have finished, leave the goddess your offering - and thank Kuan Yin for her help.

This information about the goddess Kuan Yin came from my enchanting book:
Embracing the Goddess Within by Kris Waldherr.
This is a lovely book and has been a wonderful addition to my collection of pagan books. You all know what a shameless book whore I am...:)
Brightest Blessings,
The Celtic Witch
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A Gift from Pagan Author Vila Spiderhawk

Last week I received a package in the mail that contained two books from the pagan author Vila Spider Hawk. Vila and I have chatted online about possibly putting one of her books with one of my handcrafted items to sell as a set.
She sent me these books so I would be able to put something together that fit the books appropriately.
She sent me two books one is called:
Forest Song, Finding a Home
The other is:
Hidden Passages, Tales to Honor the Crones

Both books are enchanting to look at, the covers are done beautifully.
I decided to start with Forest Song and I started reading it Saturday evening.
I am halfway through this book and I can't put it down. Every chance I get I am picking it up to get in a couple of pages before the duties of Motherhood call to me.

I can feel this young girls pains and joys as if they are my own. As she walks through the forest, I feel Mother Earth calling to me. The characters in this book are wonderful and I wish they were my own friends!

I would love for my blog followers to look into purchasing this book so that we may all discuss it together. There are so many different aspects to this story, the twists and turns and the joys and sorrows.
I have always wanted to start a Pagan Book Club and this is a wonderful book to start with.
If any of you are interested in joining me on this journey through "Forest Song" leave a comment and let me know.
You can purchase Vila's books at:
www.vanillaheartbooksandauthors.com
as well as through Amazon.com

I can't thank Vila enough for the wonderful gift of her books! Over the last few days I have laughed and cried with Judy and I look forward to reading what the future has in store for her.
Thank you Vila!