#Aryaman

[zeherili-ankhein]

Funny how another name of Savitr is Savita

So maybe the Gods tease him sometimes for having a fem name like

Mitra: O Savita deviiiii XDD Savitr: Mitra I SWEAR TO MYSELF-

LMFAOOOO WHAT im sorry that's very... Funny 💀💀💀😭

But would it be funny if Mitra and Aryaman sometimes forces him in pretty pretty clothes and make him look like the Devi he is :3

Saraswati helps them idk why

[looking-at-the-deiwos]

Aryomḗn

Or as I write it Aryomén. Also found as Háryomēn (with a hard h like the ch in loch) or H₂eryo-men. His name means something like "the God of how we do things"

Aryomén is the god of peace, law, contracts, trade, roads, marriage, healing and social order. He is the god of the Dhḗtis, the norms that society has put in place in order for harmony to exist between humans. This stands in contrast to Dyéus, who presides over the Ártus, the cosmic natural law of the universe.

Aryomén enforces justice, contracts and oaths. He presides over the orderly and successful continuation of society. He is a special patron of lawyers, but also of all those others who contribute to the infrastructure of society: road workers, sewage cleaners, bus drivers, etc.

Áryomen also is a patron of roads, marriage and healing, as institutions helpful in restoring and fostering welfare in society.

Offerings

taken from here

Hoberman sphere

other structures of individual parts with connections, especially flexible ones

stone circle

grove or personal seal

braid of white, red, and black cords (three functions: white - priestly, red - warrior, black - producers)

symbols of law, like the scales held by the goddess Justice.

White, red, and black beads

Devotional acts

Speak your mind and be honest in all your dealings

Help to solve conflicts, either of yourself or others

Learn about the laws of your country

Vote if you can

Stay up to date on local politics

Support local activism groups

Volunteer in or support welfare programs

Associations

White, red and black

Gold (UPG)

Justice

Marriage

Healing

Roads

Infrastructure

September

Thursday

Descendants in later pantheons

Aryaman (Vedic)

Airyaman (Iranic)

Érimón (Celtic)

Ariomanus (Celtic)

[h0bg0blin-meat]

I mean yeah considering Varun used to be considered the Supreme one before Indra and Vishnu

No but seriously

Where IS Arya. I miss him :'(

Aryaman third wheeled Mitra-Varuna so hard he eventually got completely left out of the original trio ☠️

Justice for Arya 😞✊

Apparently the three of them were supposed to be Rigvedic Supreme Deities

Honestly, R I.P. Arya

Alexa, Play "Ye dosti hum nahin todenge"

[h0bg0blin-meat]

Mitra, looking through their clothes: Has anyone seen my top?

Aryaman: Varuna's in the kitchen.

[chaoticneutraltor]

[the-art-of-witnessing-the-cosmos]

Virgo Rising

💚The personality here is intelligent, analytical, service oriented , methodical , organised & seeks to balance what lies underneath.

💚Possesses the Knack of discriminative intelligence.

💚Seeks deeper, intuitive , close , soulful one on one relationships . Pisces on the seventh cusp indicates the wish to merge with the other to experience true oneness in relationships and thus life.

💗Have beautiful features and a slim fit physique. The face is symmetrical , seeks to harmonise the issues within the family and thus may find himself in trouble sometimes.

💗Have deep penetrating intelligence and knows the essence of healthy boundaries.

💗Have a open heart & wish to be of true service to others. Mostly introverted unless other placements indicate otherwise. Can be very judgemental, self critical at times.

💚With Saturn ruling 5th & 6th house. The self creativity, intelligence and the outflow of past karma for resolution which is represented by the 6th House sign Aquarius . The personality has chosen to rebalance it's karma more than the rest of rising signs. Thus this rising sign is set on a chosen positive path of retribution which with time will give inner balance & peace once we understand the essence of our overall Karma.

💚The partner is intuitive , spiritual, wise & there's some heartiness & other wordlyness in the partnership.

💚The personality adds practicality , a sense of stability and the partner adds kindness , love , acceptance & a sense of letting go. Thus a deep balancing essence.

💗Once both decide that a space in relationship is to be kept for the infinite within them both , it can be a beautiful relationship. When both can appreciate each other's differences and similarities , then it becomes even a more enriching experience.

💗These personalities though outwardly shy , reserved are quite passionate inside and also love deeply if they choose to love you.

💗These personalities are also found in divination , astrology, tarots and the occult . They are intuitive & can connect will with their subconscious and can guide others.

💚They tend to befriend friends who are emotionally sensitive , attuned , homely and caring . Loves belongingness in the house of friendship & marketplace.

💚With sun being the Lord of the 12th cusp. They are inwardly very bright , intelligent , creative and in outward world they may struggle to find their true confidence in self. Relationship with father can have a sense of absenteeism a bit.

💚This sign has three Nakshatra's abiding.

Uttaraphalguni - Ruled by Sun . Guided by Solar Diety Dev Aryaman.

Hasta - Ruled by Moon . Guided by Solar diety Savitur Dev.

Chitta - Ruled by Mars . Guided by Diety Vishwakarma - the celestial architect.

[13lunarstar]

Uttara Phalguni

The twelfth nakshatra

Degrees: from 26°40' Leo zodiac to 10 °00' of Virgo zodiac

The ruler of nakshatra: Sun (sans. Surya)

Nakshatra's guna: rajas (human)

Uttara Phalguni keywords: leadership, creativity, responsibility, sociability, nurturing, ambition, contracts, comfort-seeking, social responsibility, diplomacy, artistic flair, generosity, warm-heartedness, harmonious partnerships, critical thinking, realistic life approach (Virgo's influence)

Symbol: a bed ( especially rear marriage bed and bed legs) or a hammock, representing relaxation, enjoyment, and union

Uttara Phalguni's deity is Aryaman, one of the Adityas*, associated with contracts, unions, and agreements. Aryaman signifies the bond between people and the responsibilities in relationships.

(*In the Hindu pantheon, the Adityas are a group of deities, often depicted as the sons of the solar goddess Aditi. They are divine creatures associated with various aspects of nature and celestial phenomena. Among the most notable Adityas there are Surya (the Sun god), Varuna (the god of water and oceans), Mitra (the god of friendship and contracts), Aryaman (the god of contracts and unions), and others)).

Uttara Phalguni in various planets

Sun in Uttara Phalguni: brings strong leadership qualities, creativity, and warmth, making individuals suitable for roles that require authority and inspiration. They excel in leadership positions, such as CEOs or team leaders, where they can confidently lead others towards success. Their natural talents fit in fields like art, design, or entertainment, where they can express themselves with originality and flair. However, they may need to guard against tendencies towards dominance or ego issues, ensuring they maintain humility and openness to feedback and criticism. their warmth and generosity, impatience and need for recognition can sometimes pose challenges, requiring them to cultivate patience and inner security. Education, event planning, or hospitality professions align well with their nurturing and supportive nature, allowing them to create welcoming environments and inspire others.

Moon in Uttara Phalguni: Following a Moon in Magha's royal placement and a Moon in Purva Phalguni's creative mindset, Moon in Uttara Phalguni indicates a tendency towards diligence and executing plans. With its span extending into Virgo, this Moon is known for analysis and perfectionism, and individuals may display analytical prowess and a penchant for precision. Proficiency in negotiations and deals is likely, with potential career paths in finance or law, albeit requiring substantial effort to ascend. They exhibit a pragmatic outlook on life, possibly perceived as astute or shrewd by others. While those on the Leo side may aspire for authority through diligent effort, those on the Virgo side are driven solely by the pursuit of perfection. However, the Virgo influence may also foster a sense of facing more challenges compared to others. This diligent and perfectionist streak is often inherited from the mother.

Mars in Uttara Phalguni: infuses individuals with passionate energy, drive, and a strong sense of duty. They possess a competitive spirit and are determined to achieve their goals through hard work and perseverance. Their leadership qualities shine through as they take charge and inspire others with their enthusiasm and charisma. With a focus on creative expression and innovation, they excel in fields that require dynamic problem-solving and strategic thinking, such as entrepreneurship, engineering, or sports management. However, they may need to temper their assertiveness and impatience at times, learning to channel their energy constructively and collaborate effectively with others.

Mercury in Uttara Phalguni: imbues individuals with strong communication skills, a sharp intellect, and a nurturing disposition. They excel in negotiating and mediating conflicts, often finding balanced solutions that benefit all parties involved. With a creative flair and a love for beauty, they may pursue careers in fields such as writing, design, or the arts, where they can express themselves effectively. Their warm-hearted nature and diplomatic approach make them valuable team members and mentors, fostering supportive and harmonious relationships in their personal and professional lives. However, they may need to guard against being overly critical or perfectionistic, learning to balance their analytical abilities with empathy and understanding.

Jupiter in Uttara Phalguni: bestows individuals with a generous spirit, wisdom, and a sense of justice. They possess a natural inclination towards supporting and uplifting others, often taking on roles as mentors, teachers, or counsellors where they can share their knowledge and guidance. Their expansive vision and optimism drive them to pursue noble causes and humanitarian efforts, seeking to create positive change in their communities. With a strong moral compass, they uphold principles of fairness and integrity in all their endeavours. Jupiter's influence here also enhances their leadership abilities, as they inspire trust and confidence in others through their benevolent and inclusive approach. However, they may need to guard against becoming overly idealistic or self-righteous, remembering to stay grounded and practical in their pursuits.

Venus in Uttara Phalguni: signifies a fusion of commitment, generosity, and a sense of responsibility especially within relationships (including spousal). Individuals are passionate about socializing, unions, friendships and relationships. With a magnetic charisma and a knack for diplomacy, they excel in roles that require interpersonal skills, such as counselling, event planning, or customer service. However, they may need to guard against tendencies towards indulgence or superficiality, ensuring that they maintain balance and discernment in their pursuits of pleasure and comfort. Venus in Uttara Phalguni individuals generally radiate grace and elegance, bringing harmony and joy to both their personal and professional lives.

Saturn in Uttara Phalguni: grants individuals a strong sense of responsibility, discipline, and practicality. They approach life with a structured mindset, preferring order and stability in their endeavours. Patient and persevering, they are willing to invest the necessary time and effort to achieve their goals. Their diligent work ethic and attention to detail make them reliable and dependable, often excelling in roles that require precision and methodical planning. However, they may need to guard against tendencies towards rigidity or pessimism (the nature of nakshatra's ruler Sun is opposite to the nature of Saturn), learning to embrace flexibility and adaptability when faced with change or uncertainty.

Rahu in Uttara Phalguni: brings a unique blend of energies, often associated with desires for recognition, ambition, and creativity. Individuals with this placement may possess a strong drive to achieve success and attain status in their chosen endeavours. They may be drawn to roles that allow them to shine in the spotlight, such as performing arts, politics, or leadership positions. However, there can also be a tendency towards self-centeredness or manipulation in the pursuit of their goals. They need to cultivate humility and integrity, balancing their ambition with consideration for others. Rahu's influence here can enhance their creative talents and innovative thinking, but they may need to guard against impulsiveness or overindulgence.

Ketu in Uttara Phalguni: indicates an individual with a strong sense of duty and responsibility, often drawn towards serving others or contributing to the community. These individuals may have a deep inner wisdom and a spiritual outlook on life, seeking to find meaning and purpose beyond material pursuits. They may struggle with feelings of isolation or a sense of being misunderstood by others. It's important for them to cultivate self-awareness and inner peace, embracing their unique perspective while also remaining open to connecting with others on a deeper level. Good placement for scholars, occult science, astrology, and astronomy. An individual might become a clerk, stenographer, typist, computer operator or governmental servant.

[numbersandstars]

Uttara Phalguni - The Fearless Knight

Degrees: 26°40 Leo to 10°00 Virgo Deities: Aryaman, God of patronage; Nandi, Shiva's sacred bull, the devotional worshipper. Vimshottari Lord: Sun Sounds: टे te, टो to, पा pa, पी pi The core meaning: you are endowed with passion and courage. You do not hesitate to channel this strong energy into just causes. You fight, you support, you analyze very well with your peers. When a gigantic enemy stands in your way and everybody gives up, you stay and go for it. Sometimes, your passion may entangle you in unhealthy amorous adventures and you will regret it deeply. Because you are an Uttara Phalguni native: making the right moral choice is what makes you thrive. Nothing else. Qualities: responsible, analytical, quick-thinking, courageous, insightful, hard working, charismatic, supportive. Affliction: overindulgent, inflexible, nervous, immoral, stubbornness, critical, restless, resentful. Interest in humanitarian/environmental/animal causes, counseling, music, research.

[talonabraxas]

Surya

Nakshatra/Star – 12. Uttara Phalguni (26°40' Leo – 10°00' Virgo)

Sun is the Planetary Lord of Uttara Phalguni nakshatra.

Most of warlike qualities, such as anger, valor, aggression, fearlessness, urge to conquer and competitive spirit, are commonly shared by Surya and Uttara Phalguni.

However, Uttara Phalguni, unlike Surya’s other Nakshatra Krittika, has a more forgiving attitude and is always more interested in upholding harmony and honor, rather than final victory. Protective and nourishing aspect of Surya manifests through Uttara Phalguni. It is gentle but firm. This nashatra is always ready to serve, but only from a position of superiority. Uttara Phalguni Nakshatra Traits

1. The symbol for this service oriented lunar mansion is a healing bed or two legs of a cot

2. This is the “social worker” nakshatra and possess great skills in the healing arts and counseling fields.

3. Naturally, this asterism is called the "Star of Patronage" for their love of humanity and caring sincere nature.

4. The deity of this asterism is Aryaman, the God of Patronage, Honor and Kindness.

5. There is a tendency to be controlling and very stubborn in relationships.

6. This nakshatra is associated with state health officials, social workers, philanthropists, sales and public relations managers, writers, actors and media personalities

Themes for today

1. A good day to have positive thoughts that would manifest in the coming days.

2. Good day for wearing new garments or jewelry

3. Not a good day for confrontation or hash behavior.

4. Not a good day to lend money!

Fun Facts

1. They can be obsessive with cleanliness and can be inconsiderate and disdainful.

2. Their houses/ habitats will have motifs (art work, painting, pillow cover, bed sheets, etc) of Elephants, Stones and Trees.

3. They would be inclined to snacking especially salty food items

4. This nakshatra is strongly associated with signing of agreements, legal documents and contracts.

5. They have a tendency to be associated with loudspeakers and megaphones.

6. They rely on rationality, knowledge and wisdom and are careful in spending money.

[vertigoblockbuster]

Uttara Phalguni: Devotion, affection

The Phalgunis are the first pair of the 27 nakshatras - later coming the Ashadas, the Bhadrapadas.

Before Uttara Phalguni comes Purva Phalguni, symbolized by the front legs of a bed. Being half of a pair, Uttara Phalguni (symbolized by the back legs of a bed) is concerned with union - happy partnerships and communities. The attitude of Uttara Phalguni is a response to Purva Phalguni, a sign also concerned with union, but in a different way. Purva Phalguni has more to do with the initial attraction or "spark" that we first experience in new relationships. Uttara Phalguni comes along after the Purva Phalguni spark has died down and strives to make the relationship last beyond the initial excitement.

The bed as the symbol of Purva and Uttara Phalguni

The symbology of the bed encompasses themes of both of the Phalgunis. Love, marriage, sex, pleasure for yourself and others, rest, and rejuvenation are all things that can be associated with a bed. Purva Phalguni is more likely to see the bed as a supportive environment for weird kinky sex after a date. Uttara Phalguni seeks to sustain this attraction and, ultimately, transform the bed into one shared between two deeply committed partners.

Part of what makes Uttara Phalguni different from and complementary to Purva Phalguni has to do with their planetary rulerships.

Uttara Phalguni is ruled by the Sun. The Sun represents very masculine qualities and principles - the ego, your sense of self. It projects itself outward into the solar system, representing the doing nature of the Sun as opposed to the being nature of the more feminine planets (Venus, the Moon...). The Sun is the archetype of the father and embodies classically paternal qualities - someone generous, expressive of love and pride, who treats children and loved ones with respect and care.

Purva Phalguni is ruled by Venus, the planet embodying archetypal femininity - things like beauty, love, and pleasing aesthetics. These are the sexy and exciting things that help kick start new relationships and draw us to one another in the first place. Purva Phalguni magnetizes a companion towards her with her innate, seductive qualities and Uttara Phalguni follows close behind to build the relationship into something long-lasting with it's more fatherly approach.

Aryaman: God of community, friendship, marriage, partnership.

The ruling deity of Uttara Phalguni is one of the Adityas, Aryaman. He is brother to Bhaga, the ruling deity of Purva Phalguni. The Adityas are a group of 12 deities and make up (some of) the offspring of Aditi, a primeval goddess and mother to many gods.

Hinduism is known for having.. a lot of different gods. 330 million is a common estimate. With this in mind, it isn't surprising that some deities are not well-known. Aryaman is an important solar deity in the Vedic pantheon but relatively little information is known about him today. Some important information about Aryaman can be derived from his name, though.

The Sanskrit root of the name Aryaman is -Ri, meaning to go forward or to progress. The word arya, stemming from -Ri, means to come together or to form a bond. Putting the two together, the meaning of Aryaman is to progress towards union. -Ri can also mean something that is true and can stand on it's own. Aryaman as a name and deity carries the essence of truth. Aryaman is all about relationship and partnerships, so truth should be thought of with this in mind. True in the context of relationships means reliable, trustworthy, dedicated - prerequisite qualities to be part of a real partnership. This is what Aryaman embodies and stands for as a deity.

A song to listen to that has Uttara Phalguni vibes: If the House Burns Down Tonight by Switchfoot

I see the smoke piling up in the rear view mirror Yeah but I ain't ever seen it any clearer If the house burns down tonight I got everything I need when I got you by my side And let the rest burn

_______

Credit is due to Vic Dicara for most of the information I talked about here. If you're interested in learning more about Vedic astrology, his YouTube channel is a great resource to do that.

[zeherili-ankhein]

We forgot to include Aryaman in the third-wheeling group of Varuni and Revati ☠️

LMFAO 💀

Maybe he got tired of third wheeling Varuni and Revati too... Or maybe he's there but doesn't do much stuff... 💀

Or maybe he was sharing his pain of third wheeling with his Stallions 💀

[gurujeegyan]

What are Nakshatras and What is Their Importance in Astrology?

Understanding Nakshatras

Nakshatras, also known as lunar mansions, are a fundamental concept in Vedic astrology. Each Nakshatra is a unique 13°20′ segment of the ecliptic, through which the moon passes during its 27.3-day journey around the Earth. The moon spends approximately one day in each Nakshatra, influencing the daily dynamics of our lives. There are 27 Nakshatras in total, and each is divided into four parts called padas. These subdivisions are crucial in understanding the intricate details of astrological predictions and personal horoscopes. For those interested in deepening their knowledge, enrolling in a Nakshatra course online can provide valuable insights and comprehensive understanding of these celestial divisions.

The Significance of Nakshatras in Vedic Astrology

Nakshatras hold a pivotal role in Vedic astrology due to their profound influence on an individual’s personality, behavior, and destiny. They are considered more precise than zodiac signs, offering detailed insights into various aspects of life. Here are the key reasons why Nakshatras are vital:

Personality and Traits: Each Nakshatra is associated with specific traits, characteristics, and deities that govern them. These attributes shape an individual’s core nature and behavioral patterns.

Career and Profession: Nakshatras provide insights into the most suitable career paths and professional inclinations based on inherent strengths and weaknesses.

Relationships and Compatibility: They play a crucial role in determining compatibility in relationships, particularly in marriage, by analyzing the Nakshatras of both partners.

Health and Well-being: Certain Nakshatras are linked to specific health issues and can indicate potential medical concerns or strengths in one's constitution.

Life Events and Timing: Nakshatras help in predicting significant life events and the most auspicious timings for various activities, such as starting a new venture, marriage, or travel.

Exploring the 27 Nakshatras

Ashwini

The first Nakshatra, Ashwini, is ruled by the Ashwini Kumaras, the celestial healers. People born under this Nakshatra are known for their swift actions, vitality, and healing abilities.

Bharani

Bharani is governed by Yama, the god of death. This Nakshatra signifies transformation, discipline, and a deep understanding of the cycles of life and death.

Krittika

Ruled by Agni, the fire god, Krittika symbolizes purification and courage. Those born under this Nakshatra possess strong determination and leadership qualities.

Rohini

Rohini, ruled by the moon, represents growth, beauty, and abundance. Individuals with this Nakshatra are often artistic, nurturing, and possess a charming personality.

Mrigashira

The deity of Mrigashira is Soma, the moon god. This Nakshatra is associated with curiosity, exploration, and a quest for knowledge.

Ardra

Rudra, the storm god, governs Ardra. It is a Nakshatra of transformation, emotional depth, and the ability to overcome challenges.

Punarvasu

Punarvasu is ruled by Aditi, the mother of gods. It signifies renewal, prosperity, and a nurturing spirit.

Pushya

Governed by Brihaspati, the guru of the gods, Pushya represents wisdom, spirituality, and nourishment.

Ashlesha

Ashlesha, ruled by the serpent god, signifies intuition, secrecy, and a deep connection with the subconscious mind.

Magha

Ruled by the Pitris (ancestors), Magha is associated with power, leadership, and respect for traditions.

Purva Phalguni

Bhaga, the god of fortune, governs Purva Phalguni. It signifies creativity, pleasure, and social connections.

Uttara Phalguni

Ruled by Aryaman, Uttara Phalguni represents friendship, generosity, and a strong sense of duty.

Hasta

Hasta is governed by Savitar, the sun god. It symbolizes dexterity, craftsmanship, and a keen intellect.

Chitra

Chitra, ruled by Vishvakarma, the celestial architect, signifies creativity, beauty, and the power of transformation.

Swati

Vayu, the wind god, governs Swati. This Nakshatra represents independence, flexibility, and adaptability.

Vishakha

Ruled by Indra and Agni, Vishakha symbolizes determination, ambition, and the ability to achieve goals.

Anuradha

Anuradha is governed by Mitra, the god of friendship. It represents cooperation, devotion, and harmonious relationships.

Jyeshta

Ruled by Indra, Jyeshta signifies power, seniority, and a protective nature.

Moola

Nirriti, the goddess of destruction, governs Moola. This Nakshatra represents deep inquiry, transformation, and a quest for truth.

Purva Ashadha

Ruled by Apah, the water god, Purva Ashadha signifies invincibility, courage, and a quest for victory.

Uttara Ashadha

Uttara Ashadha is governed by Vishvadevas. It represents enduring success, righteousness, and leadership.

Shravana

Ruled by Vishnu, Shravana symbolizes listening, learning, and knowledge dissemination.

Dhanishta

Dhanishta, governed by the Vasus, represents prosperity, musical talent, and societal contributions.

Shatabhisha

Ruled by Varuna, the god of cosmic waters, Shatabhisha signifies healing, mystery, and depth.

Purva Bhadrapada

Purva Bhadrapada is governed by Aja Ekapada. It symbolizes transformation, spirituality, and intense energy.

Uttara Bhadrapada

Ruled by Ahir Budhnya, Uttara Bhadrapada signifies wisdom, depth, and a contemplative nature.

Revati

Revati, governed by Pushan, the protector of travelers, represents prosperity, protection, and a nurturing spirit.

GuruJee Gyan’s Comprehensive Nakshatra Course

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Introduction to Nakshatras: Understanding the basics and the historical significance of Nakshatras.

In-depth Study of Each Nakshatra: Detailed exploration of all 27 Nakshatras, including their myths, symbolism, and influence on personality and life events.

Nakshatras and Padas: Analyzing the four padas of each Nakshatra for a more granular understanding.

Practical Applications: Using Nakshatras for horoscope analysis, matchmaking, and predicting life events.

Advanced Techniques: Learning advanced techniques for interpreting Nakshatras and integrating them with other astrological tools.

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Whether you are a beginner looking to explore the fascinating world of Vedic astrology or an advanced learner aiming to deepen your knowledge, our best nakshatra course online offers the perfect platform. Join GuruJee Gyan today and embark on a journey to master the intricacies of Nakshatras.

For more details and to enroll in our course, visit GuruJee Gyan’s Nakshatra Course.

[sanjayjain]

[today-it-is-this]

today, it is this — all of us strangers (2023) dir. andrew haigh absolutely decimated me. this film and koreeda's monster might be my top two favorites of this year. here are some excerpts from some reviews that made me tear up all over again even though it's been days since the screening:

tiffany's review:

"'All of Us Strangers' argues that beyond all this inevitable sadness is a force to be reckoned with: hope. The hope that we’ll get the closure we’ve needed. The hope that we’re not all alone. The hope that even after everything, we are still ultimately loved and cared for."

"I am queer and the journey ahead is going to be painful. I don’t know what my parents will say to me. I don’t even know if they’ll want to talk to me, but I hope eventually they’ll learn to love me more once they know me."

coffee's review:

"Everything you never said, everything you wish you could, every trip you could’ve had, every revelation you could’ve shared, every time you went to bed and wondered what it would’ve been like if they were still here. You’d have so much to say, and there would never be enough time to say it all."

pat's deeply personal entry:

"After the screening, someone hugs me. I never appreciate this enough, physical touch, I mean. I am reminded of not just my mom but all the other friends I have made. Ash. Aryaman. Ms. Pope. They too, I come to realize, are my chosen family. I am filled with a profound sense of hope, a newfound light. Looking around, I am radiant."

"I am a closeted gay man, and I will lose my parents next year when I come out to them. But as the poet Chen Chen writes, "sometimes parents and children become the most common strangers. Eventually, a street appears where they can meet again." I am grateful for this film's hope. I am grateful to my friends who give me light."

06/10/2023

[kiraastro]

I wonder why the presiding deity of purva phalguni and uttara phalguni are often interchanged.

Some texts say Aryaman lords purva phalguni, while others say uttara phalguni

[masonhawthorne]

What I read in October

Hoo boy, I sure did forget to post this earlier, didn't I!

Honestly I've been so busy so far this month that I just didn't even think of it. Also, this month is sort of evaporating. Before you ask, no I have written nothing at all for the not-NaNo that I was planning to attempt. But I did come up with another great idea for something that I'll probably start and not finish, so you can't say I've done nothing!

Anyway, on to the list:

Unfortunate Elements of My Anatomy, Hailey Piper ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Ghost Bird, Lisa Fuller ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

The Hound of the Baskervilles, Arthur Conan Doyle ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

The Forest of Stolen Girls, June Hur ⭐️⭐️⭐️

The Liar's Dice, Jeannie Lin ⭐️

Straya, Anthony O'Connor ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Toxic, Dan Kaszeta (nf) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Illuminae, Amie Kaufman & Jay Kristoff ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Penhallow, Georgette Heyer ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

The Myth of the Self Made Man, Ruben Reyes Jr (ss) ⭐️⭐️⭐️

The Call, Christian White & Summer De Roche ⭐️⭐️⭐️

The Death of the Necromancer, Martha Wells ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Cretins, Thomas Ha (ss) ⭐️⭐️⭐️

Kill Your Brother, Jack Heath ⭐️⭐️⭐️

The Doors of Perception, Aldous Huxley (nf) ⭐️⭐️⭐️

Valley of Terror, Zhou Haohui, tr. Bonnie Huie ⭐️⭐️

The Curse of the Burdens, John Wyndham ⭐️⭐️

Amazons, Adrienne Mayor (nf) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

The Kraken Wakes, John Wyndham ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Dead Mountain, Donnie Eichar (nf) ⭐️⭐️

Family Business, Jonathan Sims ⭐️⭐️⭐️

Wuthering Heights, Emily Brontë ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

In the House of Aryaman A Lonely Signal Burns, Elizabeth Bear ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

A Blessing of Unicorns, Elizabeth Bear ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

METAtropolis Anthology ⭐️⭐️⭐️

Plan for Chaos, John Wyndham ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

A Fatal Thing Happened On the Way to the Forum, Emma Southon (nf) ⭐️⭐️⭐️

The Outward Urge, John Wyndham ⭐️⭐️

King Solomon's Mines, H. Rider Haggard DNF

The Nicomachean Ethics, Aristotle tr. David Ross (nf) ⭐️⭐️⭐️

This was a bit of a mixed bunch!

At the end of September I went to a writer's conference, where Lisa Fuller and Amie Kaufman were guests of honour. I was a bit annoyed at myself because I had bought Ghost Bird the week before, not realising that she was on the program, so I had the book the whole time but hadn't yet read it! Oh well, better late than never.

Ghost Bird was a solid spooky read, dealing with family history and tensions, small town disturbances, and the violent inheritances of colonialism and racism in Australia. I originally bought it because it was on a list of books to read if you enjoyed Catching Teller Crow by Ambelin Kwaymullina and Ezekiel Kwaymullina, which I did.

Illuminae was one that I had heard @slushrottweiler mention several times, but I'd never gotten around to it (YA, not my most favourite! Epistolary, not my most favourite!). But after the conference I figured I'd check it out, and I'm glad I did. While I wouldn't say that it's my favourite thing ever, it was a solid scifi story, with an interesting form and style, and I'll probably check out the sequels eventually.

Straya by Anthony O'Connor was the other book on this list that I picked up after the conference. Kind of a goofy action romp through post-apocalyptic Sydney, I was expecting to be a kind of brain-off funtime read (and it is! Don't get me wrong!) but it also had a lot of very clever little twists and turns that kept it really engaging. Also a refreshing take on the 'love interest' character, being that she's asexual, and when the protagonist confesses his feelings for her she says well... that's sweet and all, but I don't do that. Can we still be friends? And then they are still friends! A lot of the goofyness of this book is held up by a backbone of sincerity which is really nice, too. In all, a fun read.

Also revisited some faves this month, re-read Penhallow for my book club, and I have to say, it is one of those books which just gets more complex with each rereading. It's up there with Rebecca as some of my most books of all time.

There's one big fat DNF on the list this month, King Solomon's Mine, which through a combination of Victorian era racism, and very poor audio quality was pretty much unlistenable, and I don't think I'll be bothered trying to find a better recording.

And that's that!

nf= non fiction

ss= short story

stars awarded at my whim