Tag: Solitary practitioner

Who Is A Real Witch Anyway?

Who Is A Real Witch Anyway?

Author: Amergin Aradia

It seems that the debate about who is and who is not a “real Witch” is coming to a head. Is this sect real as opposed to that sect? Are those in covens real Witches as opposed to solitaries’. And on and on it goes. It’s beginning to sound like the fight between factions of the Christian religion or between organized religions as a whole. That’s probably the way they began too.

This silly useless debate is pulling our community apart as well. The truth is, are any of us real Witches. And how do you define a real Witch? By whose standards and rules?

As an illustration of my point I’ll tell you my story. I have always known that I was a Witch, even before I really knew what that was. When I was very young (grade school) I had certain abilities and interests that other kids didn’t. I practiced raising energy, practiced ESP (as it was called then) , I astral projected, and I cast spells. I was drawn to the night, the moon and stars, and I identified with all things “magical.”

I wasn’t trained by anyone because there was no one to train me. I had to figure it out for myself and that was in the 1950’s so you know there were very few references to rely on even if I knew where to look. As I grew up I did what everyone else did then, got a job and tried to live what was considered a “normal” life, as unsatisfying as that was.

I maintained my interests and practices over the years as best I could, if only peripherally. There may have been one or two occult bookstores in the area but you really had to search them out and I only managed to get to one every so often and then only to browse because I didn’t know what I was looking for. You didn’t just walk up to someone and tell him or her you were a Witch and wanted to join a coven. And people didn’t come out of the woodwork to invite you to join one, even if you knew where to look.

So I dabbled, training myself the best way I could using instinct as my guide. At the time I would have loved to have found someone to train me and I would have loved to have found a coven to join so that I wouldn’t feel so alone. But they didn’t exactly advertise. And there was no Internet in those days to bring us all together.

So unless you were lucky, you were on your own. Like it or not.

Now that we have all these books, magazines, and web sites to fill in the gaps I find that my instincts did very well by me. Everything that I taught myself way back then is now being touted as the way to do it by the “experts.” I have since collected an entire library of books hoping to find information that would help me advance my practice but with the exception of a few interesting bits that I’ve added here and there, I have been disappointed.

I have also attended classes, open groves, and ceremonies, and while the people that I met were very nice it just didn’t feel right for me. I’ve also become very disillusioned with the influx of the newest brick and mortar shops. They seem to have become havens of self-help, yoga, meditation, and coffee and music.

And while I practice yoga and meditation myself I don’t want to go to my local Craft shop to pick up a yoga mat, balance ball, or a book by Dr. Phil. I want to pick up the tools for my ceremonies and spell crafting and, unfortunately, the kind of shop I want seems to be few and far between (except on line.) It feels as though the craft as I remember it is being homogenized and made so “acceptable” in the eyes of the general public that it is becoming useless to serious practitioners. But I digress here.

So to sum up this article, does it mean that I am not a real Witch because I had no one to “lead the way” or no coven to adopt me and teach me “their right way”? Quite frankly I think that makes me an even better real Witch because I had to figure it out for myself. And because of that my understanding and beliefs don’t quite fit into any prescribed dogma. So that is why I stay a solitary practitioner and that is why I have stepped back from the community as a whole.

But then I don’t look at being a Witch as a religion, with all of its implied rules and regulations and dogma. I look at being a Witch in the same way that the old village Witches looked at it. I revere the earth and heavens and do my best to respect and tread lightly on her.

I try to live a spiritual life without bowing to or begging the acceptance of any one archetypal being. I look at the Goddess and Gods as a representation on this plane of the source of all energy and power. I cast spells for my own benefit, and mine alone, as I don’t believe I have the right to manipulate anyone else’s life. And I believe that Karma will out eventually.

I believe that being a Witch is as simple as that. It’s in your heart, it’s in your soul, and it’s who YOU know you really are. Not because someone gives you permission to be one simply because you read and adhere to someone else’s views as written down and published. Or because you attend meetings once a week, or once a month, or even once a quarter.

But because YOU know you are. And whether you are solitary or a member of a group, no matter what that group represents, you are really on your own. You must practice, practice, practice, and hold that knowing in your own heart…alone.

That’s what makes you a “real Witch.”

Solitaires Are Pagan Too!

Solitaires Are Pagan Too!

Author: Crick

Guess what, folks? Solitaires are pagans too!

Over the years I have personally visited many a different gathering, have been a participant in many divergent conversations and have been a member of numerous chat groups. And there seems to a divisive undercurrent in certain parts of the pagan community that solitaires are less pagan than anyone else. Good grief, do we really need this kind of elitist nonsense?

Neo paganism as it is today has to vie for acceptance in the general community at large because of misguided stereotypes. Because of the modern mind-set where everything has to fall under instant gratification or risk losing ones attention, there is a serious lack of will and discipline when it comes to learning the ages old principles of the Craft.

Add to that the proliferation of Christian concepts into paganism due to the influx of former members of that particular religion; and at the end of the day, neo paganism has more then its share of internal problems. Do we really want to ostracize folks simply because they want to pursue their spiritual path as individuals without a membership in a coven or similar gathering?

Does this attitude really make a particular gathering and/or person more pagan, then others? I personally have spent half of my pagan related journey involved with a family clan and covens and half as a solitaire. Does this make me only half as good a witch as I could be?

There seems to be one group in particular that has a problem with solitaires, which is something that I don’t understand at all. Please understand that this is not about singling out and pummeling any particular group, just a pragmatic view at issues which affect us all as pagans.
As such, the Wicca seems to be the one group that solitaires consistently cite as having divisive issues with. How the Wicca set up and run their gathering is no ones business but their own, but there are a few questions in general that begs an answer.

The Wicca has a well-known tenet that “all Wicca are witches but not all witches are Wicca”. It has been explained to me by various Wicca that one is not a true witch unless they have been initiated as a Wicca. For without such initiation one cannot be validated through lineage. This particular mindset would certainly leave out solitaires for such folks are usually self-initiated.
And any witch who came before 1954 and/or since who is not a Wicca would also be excluded under such narrow tenets.

Yet, unless I am missing the mark, paganism in general and witchcraft in particular did not begin in 1954 CE. And so such views leave the taint of elitism in the air.

So lets look at this viewpoint from that of a solitaire.

First of all, one could question what in the world does lineage have to do with the Craft?
Regardless of who from the mid 1950’s till now is in ones learning tree, it is the individual who is responsible for ones own spiritual growth and the way that one engages in acts of energy and other aspects of the Craft. If I may use an analogy, one can pay an instructor to teach them to be a black belt in karate; however the belt is only as good as the person that is wearing it at the time.

I realize that folks like to have a family tree or “lineage” as is the case here, to present to their peers, for bragging rights. But for all intents and purposes, it has little if any practical value in the Craft. When it comes to working with energy, even covens are made up of individuals who come together to weave their energy into a tapestry made up of their individual wills. So why solitaires should be disparaged for doing what is natural to them is a mystery unto itself.

Perhaps such thoughts present themselves within Wicca because in part, Wicca is fashioned off of the ideals of the Masonic Order. And those folks place a heavy emphasis on lineage. And yet another point to this concept that is confusing is that Cunningham was a self declared solitaire even though he was associated with the Wicca movement. Does the Wicca think less of an author who played a huge part in bringing them to the public eye even though he saw himself as a solitaire?

When Cunningham wrote and published his book Wicca for the Solitary Practitioner, was there any attempt by the Wicca to block such a hugely popular book? And were the proceeds from this book turned away because they were predicated upon unacceptable concepts as endorsed by the Wicca?

One cannot have it both ways. A group cannot accept the vehicle that brings them their greatest source of recognition and then denounce the folks who follow the precepts that such a vehicle was created from. That is commonly referred to as hypocrisy.

And this brings me to my next thought.

If such a well-known advocate of Wicca is given the nod to write a book for solitaires based upon Wicca tenets, even if it was a tacit nod. And then there is a ground surge of interest in Wicca because of said author, couldn’t one assume that there will be folks who will want to identify with Wicca without becoming a formal member of a Wicca coven?

Should such an interest and desire be used as a platform to snub folks in order for those doing the snubbing to feel more important about themselves? Is that what paganism is about?

Another tenet held forth by the Wicca is acceptance of others beliefs and the idea of diversity. Where do solitaires fit into these grand ideals or are such ideals, simply superficial window dressing for something else all together?

If it was okay to lure such folks into the fold when a profit was being made, should they be shunted aside now that they no longer serve such a purpose?

Paganism in general is considered a minority belief system because of the very successful propaganda put forth by the three main organized religions. Do we as a perceived religious/spiritual minority really want to turn away solitaires who are just as devoted to their spiritual journeys as are any other kind of pagan?

At the end of the day, there is no pagan group or gathering that is loftier then any other. For every gathering is the sum of its members. And even if that gathering happens to number only one member, they still count.

It would be a real act of maturity and growth if the pagan community as a whole would spend less energy on the “my pop is bigger then your pop mentality” and concentrate instead on the issues that “really” matter in a magickal and nature based belief system.

I’m sure that Mother Earth would appreciate a bit more attention.

Neo paganism in general seems to be wrapped up in convincing others of our ilk, of a perceived self-importance and level of ability, which in all reality so few have actually taken the time to cultivate. The rest of the time is taken up in trying to convince society in general which consists of the conquerors that we are a valid belief system, though paganism has been just that, for eons.

What causes such insecurities one may ask? And what causes one pagan associated group to feel that it is necessary to diminish those such as the solitaires, in order to elevate themselves to a dubious standing?

In my personal life I have served for a number of years as a HP of a very active witchcraft coven and yet as a student of shamanism, I practice as a solitaire. Does that make my glass half full or half empty? Or does it really matter?

At the end of the day, all of us, whether we practice as a solitaire or not, still have to answer to our chosen Deity in regards to our spiritual growth as individuals. And so in essence we are all solitaires at heart. Let’s put to rest the hypocrisy and antipathy over solitaires for they are our brothers and sisters walking a common ground.

Besides, elitism is nothing more then a façade that is devoid of any real substance.

And so in closing, yes, solitaires can be witches too!

What is Progressive Witchcraft?

What is Progressive Witchcraft?

By Terminus

“We do not see our ‘trainees’ as empty vessels, waiting to be filled up, but as individuals with a wealth of experience and ideas which they can contribute to the craft. (Rainbird, 1993)

The use of the term progressive arose from a discussion between Ariadne Rainbird and Tam Campbell in London in the late 1980s (*3) They were discussing the evolution of Wicca, and the fact that it had moved on over the decades, beyond the labels of “Gardnerian” or “Alexandrian”. They clearly stated that the term was being used to describe a trend, not a tradition, and that any coven that was eclectic in its approach and not limiting itself to the Book of Shadows was being progressive.

In 1991 Ariadne Rainbird formed a network for covens who subscribed to a more eclectic view of Wiccan practice, called the Progressive Wiccan network (*1). This network included covens in Wales, England, Germany and Canada. 1991 also saw the first Grand Sabbat, at Lughnasadh, with around 30 witches from six different covens meeting up to camp out in the wilds of South Wales and celebrate together. This tradition was to continue for some years, developing into an annual weekly gathering in Cornwall for members of different covens to work together.

In 1992 David Rankine became the editor of the magazine Dragon’s Brew, which became the magazine of the Progressive Wiccan movement. Dragon’s Brew was created by Chris Breen in 1990, originally as the house magazine for the Silver Wheel Coven (*1).

To quote from the magazine (1992):

“Progressive Wicca is a movement which spans the traditions and emphasises networking, closeness to nature, personal growth and co-operative development. Personal experience of other paths is welcomed and integrated into covens, and we do not slavishly follow a Book of Shadows, as we see Wicca as an ever growing religion and the Book of Shadows changes and grows with each new Witch.” (*1)

Contact details for a number of covens were given in the back of each issue of the magazine. The editorial stance of the magazine was actively supportive of environmental protection, detailing protests, distributing leaflets and supporting organisations like Dragon (eco-magick environmental network) and Friends of the Earth Cymru in their actions. Campaigns like the ones to save Oxleas Wood and Twyford Down were covered, as well as events in other parts of the world, like proposed wolf culling in Canada, tiger conservation in India, and anti-nuclear testing by the French in the Pacific. (*1)

Dragon’s Brew ran quarterly until 1997, with a circulation of several hundred copies, and covered a wide range of subjects, from chakras and kundalini to Enochian magick and running effective open rituals. Different pantheons were also explored, including the Welsh, Greek, Sumerian and Egyptian. A number of prominent academics also contributed to the magazine, which received articles from distinguished figures such as Professor Ronald Hutton and the Egyptologist Terry DuQuesne. (*1)

By 1994 Progressive Witchcraft was widely known throughout Europe. David Rankine gave a number of talks at events like the Talking Stick Meet the Groups conference in 1994, and at various University Pagan Societies. The growth of the movement was acknowledged by Michael Jordan, who gave it a sizeable entry in his 1996 book Witches: An Encyclopaedia of Paganism and Magic. (*3)

To avoid some disharmony caused by the term “Progressive” in the Wiccan community the term was changed from “Progressive Wicca” to Progressive Witchcraft in 1993, as was demonstrated by the cover of Dragon’s Brew (*1). In combination with this Ariadne Rainbird and David Rankine set up the Progressive Witchcraft Foundation, to deal with enquiries about Progressive Witchcraft, and also ran workshops under the banner of Silver Wheel with other coven members on a variety of related subjects.

In 1994 Ariadne Rainbird and David Rankine started running correspondence courses on natural magick based on much of the (non-oathbound) Progressive Witchcraft material. This material was to form the basis for their book Magick Without Peers: A Course in Progressive Witchcraft for the Solitary Practitioner, published by Capall Bann in 1997. (*2)

Reference Material

————————-

(*1) Dragon’s Brew, a Magazine of Magick, Paganism & Progressive Witchcraft, (1992 -1997)

(*2) Magick Without Peers, A Course in Progressive Witchcraft. Capall Bann 1997

(*3) Witches, An Encyclopaedia of Paganism and Magic; Michael Jordon, 1996

Patchwork of Magic, Julia Day, Capall Bann, 1995

(*4) Talking Stick Magical Directory, 1993

This article was written by Terminus, 2000 and provided for free distribution.

————————————————————–

Casting a Spell or Setting Up A Ritual

Casting a Spell or Setting Up A Ritual

 

In the same way that every party has the same underlying structure, whether it is a party for child’s birthday, having a few friends round for drinks or a formal dance event to raise fund for the local community, your spell casting will follow the same basic format, whether you are casting a short impromptu spell or setting up a more open-ended ritual.

If you work from a basic magickal format, you can devise anything from a five-minute spell to call a friends’ missing cat home to a full-scale welcoming the spring for a hundred people on a local hillside.

What is more, once you have decided how the different components fir together you can change the order round to suit your needs. There is a huge variation in practice across the witchcraft community. Sometimes even experienced witches follow an order or way of doing things they were taught or read about that doesn’t fit with their own natural rhythm. Even if you are doing it right by the book, your magickal energies won’t be as powerful as if you were following the flow of the occasion. So, for more experienced practitioners, I am describing my practices for solo and group events so that you can re-examine your own structure–and then maybe decide it was right for you all along (Or that you are turning the whole ritual format on it head and creating an entirely new and exciting system).

For newcomers or established witch, coven member or solitary practitioner, once you have internalized a structure that suits you, you can create your own spells and rites, complex or simple, instinctively without needing to check that you are on track.

You will discover that some spells do not use the altar but are focused on the setting and everyday items. In these the structure is compressed but still effective. Don’t feel you have to go through all the stages of altar casting, for a simple spell. You can adapt the suggestions to either working alone or in a group.

What is Progressive Witchcraft?

What is Progressive Witchcraft?

“We do not see our ‘trainees’ as empty vessels, waiting to be filled up, but as individuals with a wealth of experience and ideas which they can contribute to the craft. (Rainbird, 1993)

The use of the term progressive arose from a discussion between Ariadne Rainbird and Tam Campbell in London in the late 1980s (*3) They were discussing the evolution of Wicca, and the fact that it had moved on over the decades, beyond the labels of “Gardnerian” or “Alexandrian”. They clearly stated that the term was being used to describe a trend, not a tradition, and that any coven that was eclectic in its approach and not limiting itself to the Book of Shadows was being progressive.

In 1991 Ariadne Rainbird formed a network for covens who subscribed to a more eclectic view of Wiccan practice, called the Progressive Wiccan network (*1). This network included covens in Wales, England, Germany and Canada. 1991 also saw the first Grand Sabbat, at Lughnasadh, with around 30 witches from six different covens meeting up to camp out in the wilds of South Wales and celebrate together. This tradition was to continue for some years, developing into an annual weekly gathering in Cornwall for members of different covens to work together.

In 1992 David Rankine became the editor of the magazine Dragon’s Brew, which became the magazine of the Progressive Wiccan movement. Dragon’s Brew was created by Chris Breen in 1990, originally as the house magazine for the Silver Wheel Coven (*1).

To quote from the magazine (1992):

“Progressive Wicca is a movement which spans the traditions and emphasises networking, closeness to nature, personal growth and co-operative development. Personal experience of other paths is welcomed and integrated into covens, and we do not slavishly follow a Book of Shadows, as we see Wicca as an ever growing religion and the Book of Shadows changes and grows with each new Witch.” (*1)

Contact details for a number of covens were given in the back of each issue of the magazine. The editorial stance of the magazine was actively supportive of environmental protection, detailing protests, distributing leaflets and supporting organisations like Dragon (eco-magick environmental network) and Friends of the Earth Cymru in their actions. Campaigns like the ones to save Oxleas Wood and Twyford Down were covered, as well as events in other parts of the world, like proposed wolf culling in Canada, tiger conservation in India, and anti-nuclear testing by the French in the Pacific. (*1)

Dragon’s Brew ran quarterly until 1997, with a circulation of several hundred copies, and covered a wide range of subjects, from chakras and kundalini to Enochian magick and running effective open rituals. Different pantheons were also explored, including the Welsh, Greek, Sumerian and Egyptian. A number of prominent academics also contributed to the magazine, which received articles from distinguished figures such as Professor Ronald Hutton and the Egyptologist Terry DuQuesne. (*1)

By 1994 Progressive Witchcraft was widely known throughout Europe. David Rankine gave a number of talks at events like the Talking Stick Meet the Groups conference in 1994, and at various University Pagan Societies. The growth of the movement was acknowledged by Michael Jordan, who gave it a sizeable entry in his 1996 book Witches: An Encyclopaedia of Paganism and Magic. (*3)

To avoid some disharmony caused by the term “Progressive” in the Wiccan community the term was changed from “Progressive Wicca” to Progressive Witchcraft in 1993, as was demonstrated by the cover of Dragon’s Brew (*1). In combination with this Ariadne Rainbird and David Rankine set up the Progressive Witchcraft Foundation, to deal with enquiries about Progressive Witchcraft, and also ran workshops under the banner of Silver Wheel with other coven members on a variety of related subjects.

In 1994 Ariadne Rainbird and David Rankine started running correspondence courses on natural magick based on much of the (non-oathbound) Progressive Witchcraft material. This material was to form the basis for their book Magick Without Peers: A Course in Progressive Witchcraft for the Solitary Practitioner, published by Capall Bann in 1997. (*2)

Reference Material

————————-

(*1) Dragon’s Brew, a Magazine of Magick, Paganism & Progressive Witchcraft, (1992 -1997)

(*2) Magick Without Peers, A Course in Progressive Witchcraft. Capall Bann 1997

(*3) Witches, An Encyclopaedia of Paganism and Magic; Michael Jordon, 1996

Patchwork of Magic, Julia Day, Capall Bann, 1995

(*4) Talking Stick Magical Directory, 1993

This article was written by Terminus, 2000 and provided for free distribution.

Solitaires Are Pagan Too!

Solitaires Are Pagan Too!

Author: Crick

Guess what, folks? Solitaires are pagans too!

Over the years I have personally visited many a different gathering, have been a participant in many divergent conversations and have been a member of numerous chat groups. And there seems to a divisive undercurrent in certain parts of the pagan community that solitaires are less pagan than anyone else. Good grief, do we really need this kind of elitist nonsense?

Neo paganism as it is today has to vie for acceptance in the general community at large because of misguided stereotypes. Because of the modern mind-set where everything has to fall under instant gratification or risk losing ones attention, there is a serious lack of will and discipline when it comes to learning the ages old principles of the Craft.

Add to that the proliferation of Christian concepts into paganism due to the influx of former members of that particular religion; and at the end of the day, neo paganism has more then its share of internal problems. Do we really want to ostracize folks simply because they want to pursue their spiritual path as individuals without a membership in a coven or similar gathering?

Does this attitude really make a particular gathering and/or person more pagan, then others? I personally have spent half of my pagan related journey involved with a family clan and covens and half as a solitaire. Does this make me only half as good a witch as I could be?

There seems to be one group in particular that has a problem with solitaires, which is something that I don’t understand at all. Please understand that this is not about singling out and pummeling any particular group, just a pragmatic view at issues which affect us all as pagans.
As such, the Wicca seems to be the one group that solitaires consistently cite as having divisive issues with. How the Wicca set up and run their gathering is no ones business but their own, but there are a few questions in general that begs an answer.

The Wicca has a well-known tenet that “all Wicca are witches but not all witches are Wicca”. It has been explained to me by various Wicca that one is not a true witch unless they have been initiated as a Wicca. For without such initiation one cannot be validated through lineage. This particular mindset would certainly leave out solitaires for such folks are usually self-initiated.
And any witch who came before 1954 and/or since who is not a Wicca would also be excluded under such narrow tenets.

Yet, unless I am missing the mark, paganism in general and witchcraft in particular did not begin in 1954 CE. And so such views leave the taint of elitism in the air.

So lets look at this viewpoint from that of a solitaire.

First of all, one could question what in the world does lineage have to do with the Craft?
Regardless of who from the mid 1950’s till now is in ones learning tree, it is the individual who is responsible for ones own spiritual growth and the way that one engages in acts of energy and other aspects of the Craft. If I may use an analogy, one can pay an instructor to teach them to be a black belt in karate; however the belt is only as good as the person that is wearing it at the time.

I realize that folks like to have a family tree or “lineage” as is the case here, to present to their peers, for bragging rights. But for all intents and purposes, it has little if any practical value in the Craft. When it comes to working with energy, even covens are made up of individuals who come together to weave their energy into a tapestry made up of their individual wills. So why solitaires should be disparaged for doing what is natural to them is a mystery unto itself.

Perhaps such thoughts present themselves within Wicca because in part, Wicca is fashioned off of the ideals of the Masonic Order. And those folks place a heavy emphasis on lineage. And yet another point to this concept that is confusing is that Cunningham was a self declared solitaire even though he was associated with the Wicca movement. Does the Wicca think less of an author who played a huge part in bringing them to the public eye even though he saw himself as a solitaire?

When Cunningham wrote and published his book Wicca for the Solitary Practitioner, was there any attempt by the Wicca to block such a hugely popular book? And were the proceeds from this book turned away because they were predicated upon unacceptable concepts as endorsed by the Wicca?

One cannot have it both ways. A group cannot accept the vehicle that brings them their greatest source of recognition and then denounce the folks who follow the precepts that such a vehicle was created from. That is commonly referred to as hypocrisy.

And this brings me to my next thought.

If such a well-known advocate of Wicca is given the nod to write a book for solitaires based upon Wicca tenets, even if it was a tacit nod. And then there is a ground surge of interest in Wicca because of said author, couldn’t one assume that there will be folks who will want to identify with Wicca without becoming a formal member of a Wicca coven?

Should such an interest and desire be used as a platform to snub folks in order for those doing the snubbing to feel more important about themselves? Is that what paganism is about?

Another tenet held forth by the Wicca is acceptance of others beliefs and the idea of diversity. Where do solitaires fit into these grand ideals or are such ideals, simply superficial window dressing for something else all together?

If it was okay to lure such folks into the fold when a profit was being made, should they be shunted aside now that they no longer serve such a purpose?

Paganism in general is considered a minority belief system because of the very successful propaganda put forth by the three main organized religions. Do we as a perceived religious/spiritual minority really want to turn away solitaires who are just as devoted to their spiritual journeys as are any other kind of pagan?

At the end of the day, there is no pagan group or gathering that is loftier then any other. For every gathering is the sum of its members. And even if that gathering happens to number only one member, they still count.

It would be a real act of maturity and growth if the pagan community as a whole would spend less energy on the “my pop is bigger then your pop mentality” and concentrate instead on the issues that “really” matter in a magickal and nature based belief system.

I’m sure that Mother Earth would appreciate a bit more attention.

Neo paganism in general seems to be wrapped up in convincing others of our ilk, of a perceived self-importance and level of ability, which in all reality so few have actually taken the time to cultivate. The rest of the time is taken up in trying to convince society in general which consists of the conquerors that we are a valid belief system, though paganism has been just that, for eons.

What causes such insecurities one may ask? And what causes one pagan associated group to feel that it is necessary to diminish those such as the solitaires, in order to elevate themselves to a dubious standing?

In my personal life I have served for a number of years as a HP of a very active witchcraft coven and yet as a student of shamanism, I practice as a solitaire. Does that make my glass half full or half empty? Or does it really matter?

At the end of the day, all of us, whether we practice as a solitaire or not, still have to answer to our chosen Deity in regards to our spiritual growth as individuals. And so in essence we are all solitaires at heart. Let’s put to rest the hypocrisy and antipathy over solitaires for they are our brothers and sisters walking a common ground.

Besides, elitism is nothing more then a façade that is devoid of any real substance.

And so in closing, yes, solitaires can be witches too!

Becoming a Witch

Becoming a Witch


These steps will take at least two years if you do them correctly.

STEP ONE – discovering your path
Read and study. Read everything you can get your hands on. You need to read anything that will tell you more about the beliefs of witchcraft, magazines, books and web pages. While studying there are other forms of the craft that help. (nature) For example you could go hiking or go camping. Sunbathe, moonbathe, watch animals etc. This step should take you at least 2 months.

STEP TWO – defining your path
In a notebook, folder or journal start writing down some reasons why the craft is for you. What does being a witch mean to you? What do you hope to achieve? How do you visualize the God and Goddess? What does the Divine mean to you? Be honest. This notebook will become your book of shadows.

STEP THREE – Exploring magic
Magic is simply raising and channeling energy that is found in yourself, nature and the divine. Before you begin working with magic you need to understand what it is. You also need to know the basic structure of a ritual, casting circles, calling quarters, invoking the God/dess, raising and directing energy, grounding and centering and closing the circle. Know the moon phases. Learn to feel how the moon effects your body. Keep records of all you have learned in your book of shadows. This step will probably take you about another couple of months.

STEP FOUR – learning to focus
Now you should start working on meditation and visualization exercises to increase your concentration. Learn to be calm. You can start out by meditating at least 3 times a week for about five minutes. You should do this for at least a month. Remember to keep a record in your book of shadows.

STEP FIVE – working with magic
Now you can begin some basic spell work. Start with a full moon ritual or a new moon ritual. Every witch should write her own spells.

STEP SIX – self dedication
After you have been studying for at least five or six months on meditating and working with magic it is time to perform a self dedication ritual. Design it however you want. A self dedication ritual means you are dedicating yourself to the craft.

STEP SEVEN – the year between dedication and initiation
You can initiate yourself when you feel you are ready. The year you spend between your self dedication and your initiation you should spend celebrating the Sabbats, meditation, practicing your spellwork and studying. Use this time to learn about different forms of divination, such as Tarot or Runes, and different forms of healing, such as herbalism. Make sure you are recording in your book of shadows.

STEP EIGHT – Networking
You should spend a solitary year study after self dedication before a witch considers joining a coven or a circle. This gives you a full year to celebrate the cycle of Sabbats.

STEP NINE – Initiation
An initiation should be something that’s meaningful to you. The ritual should be written only by you. A coven initiation is a means of bonding a group together. Initiation into the craft should always be a solitary ritual.

You still have to learn and practice. If you truly want to be a witch be prepared to spend the rest of your life studying and learning about this religion.

Who Is A Real Witch Anyway?

Who Is A Real Witch Anyway?

Author: Amergin Aradia
It seems that the debate about who is and who is not a “real Witch” is coming to a head. Is this sect real as opposed to that sect? Are those in covens real Witches as opposed to solitaries’. And on and on it goes. It’s beginning to sound like the fight between factions of the Christian religion or between organized religions as a whole. That’s probably the way they began too.

This silly useless debate is pulling our community apart as well. The truth is, are any of us real Witches. And how do you define a real Witch? By whose standards and rules?

As an illustration of my point I’ll tell you my story. I have always known that I was a Witch, even before I really knew what that was. When I was very young (grade school) I had certain abilities and interests that other kids didn’t. I practiced raising energy, practiced ESP (as it was called then) , I astral projected, and I cast spells. I was drawn to the night, the moon and stars, and I identified with all things “magical.”

I wasn’t trained by anyone because there was no one to train me. I had to figure it out for myself and that was in the 1950’s so you know there were very few references to rely on even if I knew where to look. As I grew up I did what everyone else did then, got a job and tried to live what was considered a “normal” life, as unsatisfying as that was.

I maintained my interests and practices over the years as best I could, if only peripherally. There may have been one or two occult bookstores in the area but you really had to search them out and I only managed to get to one every so often and then only to browse because I didn’t know what I was looking for. You didn’t just walk up to someone and tell him or her you were a Witch and wanted to join a coven. And people didn’t come out of the woodwork to invite you to join one, even if you knew where to look.

So I dabbled, training myself the best way I could using instinct as my guide. At the time I would have loved to have found someone to train me and I would have loved to have found a coven to join so that I wouldn’t feel so alone. But they didn’t exactly advertise. And there was no Internet in those days to bring us all together.

So unless you were lucky, you were on your own. Like it or not.

Now that we have all these books, magazines, and web sites to fill in the gaps I find that my instincts did very well by me. Everything that I taught myself way back then is now being touted as the way to do it by the “experts.” I have since collected an entire library of books hoping to find information that would help me advance my practice but with the exception of a few interesting bits that I’ve added here and there, I have been disappointed.

I have also attended classes, open groves, and ceremonies, and while the people that I met were very nice it just didn’t feel right for me. I’ve also become very disillusioned with the influx of the newest brick and mortar shops. They seem to have become havens of self-help, yoga, meditation, and coffee and music.

And while I practice yoga and meditation myself I don’t want to go to my local Craft shop to pick up a yoga mat, balance ball, or a book by Dr. Phil. I want to pick up the tools for my ceremonies and spell crafting and, unfortunately, the kind of shop I want seems to be few and far between (except on line.) It feels as though the craft as I remember it is being homogenized and made so “acceptable” in the eyes of the general public that it is becoming useless to serious practitioners. But I digress here.

So to sum up this article, does it mean that I am not a real Witch because I had no one to “lead the way” or no coven to adopt me and teach me “their right way”? Quite frankly I think that makes me an even better real Witch because I had to figure it out for myself. And because of that my understanding and beliefs don’t quite fit into any prescribed dogma. So that is why I stay a solitary practitioner and that is why I have stepped back from the community as a whole.

But then I don’t look at being a Witch as a religion, with all of its implied rules and regulations and dogma. I look at being a Witch in the same way that the old village Witches looked at it. I revere the earth and heavens and do my best to respect and tread lightly on her.

I try to live a spiritual life without bowing to or begging the acceptance of any one archetypal being. I look at the Goddess and Gods as a representation on this plane of the source of all energy and power. I cast spells for my own benefit, and mine alone, as I don’t believe I have the right to manipulate anyone else’s life. And I believe that Karma will out eventually.

I believe that being a Witch is as simple as that. It’s in your heart, it’s in your soul, and it’s who YOU know you really are. Not because someone gives you permission to be one simply because you read and adhere to someone else’s views as written down and published. Or because you attend meetings once a week, or once a month, or even once a quarter.

But because YOU know you are. And whether you are solitary or a member of a group, no matter what that group represents, you are really on your own. You must practice, practice, practice, and hold that knowing in your own heart…alone.

That’s what makes you a “real Witch.”

March 20, 2025 Daily Horoscopes and Birthday Horoscope’s Traits

Click here to read Georgia Nicols Daily and Weekly Horoscopes

Click here for Anyone’s Birthday or Daily or Monthly Horoscopes Source: thehoroscope.co

Click here to read anyone’s birthday traits and more Source: sunsigns.org

Click here to read more about traits for anyone’s birthday horoscope Source: tarot.com

Birthday Horoscope’s Traits

Joyful and blessed birthday wishes from Lady Carla Beltane with the WOTC Family and Friends!!

May the next year of your life bring you more love, laughter, joy, happiness, enough income to cover what you have to have along with a little leftover for fun! May it bring you everything you want if it is supposed to be and everything you need. May sorrow be unknown, and any negativity be minimal. May the wind always be at your back.

Being a Pisces born on March 20th, you are all about change and new experiences. You are relentless and get annoyed by too much calm.

Active and bold during your young years, you eventually decide to settle. In time, you become more and more practical and oriented towards finding solutions to the problems of those around. Prepare to read a special personality report below.

 The zodiac sign for March 20 is Pisces.

 Astrological symbol: Fish. The sign of the Fish is influential for those born February 19 – March 20, when the Sun is considered to be in Pisces. It signifies Divine Consciousness and ambivalence.

 The Pisces Constellation with the brightest star being Van Maanen’s is spread on 889 sq degrees between Aquarius to the West and Aries to the East. Its visible latitudes are +90° to -65°, this being just one of the twelve zodiac constellations.

 In Greece it is called Ihthis and in France goes by the name Poissons but the Latin origin of the March 3 zodiac sign, the Fish is in the name Pisces.

 Opposite sign: Virgo. This means that this sign and Pisces are a straight line across each other on the zodiac wheel and can create an opposition aspect. This suggests compassion and diligence as well as an interesting cooperation between the two sun signs.

 Modality: Mobile. The modality proposes the creative nature of those born on March 20 and their optimism and modesty in tackling most life events.

 Ruling house: The twelfth house. This zodiac placement suggests the starting over after a success or a pitfall and rising each and every time more powerful and with more experience to learn from.

 Ruling body: Neptune. This connection suggests intuition and pleasure. It also suggest the creativity surrounding the lives of these natives. The glyph of Neptune combines the cross with three crescents directed above.

 Element: Water. This element represents transformation and continuous growth and is considered to determine the mood swings of those associated with March 20 as they tend to support their actions on feelings and less on reason. Water boils things in association with fire, it’s vaporized by air and shapes things in combination with earth.

 Lucky day: Thursday. This is a day ruled by Jupiter, therefore deals with domination and seduction. It suggests the intuitive nature of Pisces natives.

 Lucky numbers: 5, 9, 18, 19, 23.

 Motto: “I believe!”

People born on March 20 are original and intuitive and love when they are surrounded by others who are as talented as they are. They also take time to observe what is going with those around them, be it at a human personality level or beyond that. They are easily annoyed by materialistic and selfish individuals and are amongst the first to point them out. They enjoy being par of fancy enterprises that allow them to showcase their potential and they are often quite accepting.

 Positive Traits: Energetic and quick learners, these Pisces natives have their own lifestyle in many regards. They make faithful and romantic lovers and also insightful and altruistic companions. They are active and bold in their early years but then with age they smooth things with their knowledge and become more confident in themselves.

 Negative Traits: Capricious and often stubborn, quick to dramatize and rapid to exaggerate what is going on in their lives, these natives want the whole attention to be on them. Unfortunately they are often victims of their own ideals and life principles and rarely know when to temper their behavior and smooth their impulses. They rely on instinct but often prioritize other things ahead. They try to make logical and rational arrangements but their feelings get caught along the way.

Love and Compatibility: Lovers born on March 20 are creative and adventurous. They love dating and meeting new and exciting persons but when it comes to commitment they avoid any kind of attachment. However, if they ever get struck by love they start acting like fools and their whole world starts revolving around the object of their affection. They are attracted to energetic and fun persons who can keep up with their active and unpredictable lifestyle.

 They are prudent and circumspect lovers and although not passionate their gentleness and honesty compensate. Their relationships are likely to grow on friendships as they need time to know the person that stays beside them. They offer everything they have to their loved one and ask for the same. Gentle and loving daydreamers now, but when time comes they will prove to be very dedicated to their family and they are likely to sacrifice many of their dreams for their loved one’s sake. They are most compatible with those born on the 2nd, 5th, 9th, 11th, 14th, 18th, 20th, 23rd, 27th and 29th. March 20 Zodiac people are very attracted to the other water signs: Cancer and Scorpio as they tend to share the same vision of life. In life, Pisces is constantly seeking for a partner whom to support and motivate them in exchange for their enthusiasm and energy and the most suitable to offer them this is the native from Taurus. Pisces is thought to be least compatible with Aquarius. As for the rest of compatibilities between the other star signs and Pisces, you know what they say, stars predispose but people dispose.

Lucky Color: The preferred color for Pisces zodiac is Turquoise.

This ever changing mix, ranging and changing shades appeals and stimulates the creative and visionary Pisces. This combination of watery colors is not only inspiring but surprisingly soothing for Pisces.

Other hues that appeal to people born on March 20 are purple, pink and sea-green.

Representative Birthstone: The sign stone for Pisces zodiac is the irresistible Aquamarine.

This precious stone is said to ease communication and humanitarian endeavors. Aquamarine also symbolizes increased awareness and quick response.

Other sign stones that are thought to bring luck to people born on March 20 are Amethyst and Opal.

Characteristic Flower: The representative flower for Pisces zodiac is Water Lily.

Water Lily also symbolizes a sincere and warm hearted nature. This is a flower said to influence emotional responses. The multiple petals focused around the golden center suggest a complex and focused nature.

Other flowers suggestive for Pisces are Jonquil and Violet.

Symbolic Metal: Aluminum is the characteristic metal for Pisces zodiac.

Aluminum suggests invention and innovation. This light weight original metal relates to travel and also has a few connections with spirituality and prosperity.

Another metal considered beneficial for people born on March 20 is Zinc.

Characteristics: March 20 Zodiac belongs to the third decan of PISCES (March 11-March 20). This decan is strongly influenced by the planet Pluto. This is representative for people who are creative and idealistic just like Pisces and focused just like Pluto. This period tempers the positive and negative characteristics of the Pisces zodiac sign, slightly enhancing the negative ones.

 Being born on the 20th day of the month shows a person who is patient, task oriented but also imaginative and emotional. The numerology for March 20 is 2. This number reveals balance and partnerships. It is the representative number for the desire of harmony and peace. Those Pisces associated with this numerology can become great mediators and with age they will only turn wiser, gentler and incredibly more considerate to other people. March is the first spring month in the Northern Hemisphere, bringing the revival and enthusiasm of spring. Those born in March are generous and attractive. March 20 Zodiac people are determined and attractive. The symbols for March include Aquamarine and Emerald as gemstones, Daffodil and Shamrock as plants and Mars, the god of war.

What Statistics Say: March 20 is counted in the Gregorian Calendar as the 79th day of the year or the 80th day in leap years, while until the end of the year there are 286 days left. The twentieth day of spring, this is the International Day of the Francophonie, the International Day of Happiness and the World Sparrow Day.

 Pisces as occurrence in birth signs is considered to be the fourth most popular. Under a definite feminine symbolism, this even number sign is considered to have a negative polarity with deep energy. This relates to introvert people who are reserved and quite strict. The archetype used when talking about this sign is the Medic. These natives don’t seem to be very interested in material possessions as they were rated the least earners. Famous people born on March 20 under the Pisces zodiac sign: Spike Lee, Carl Reiner, William Hurt, Fred Rogers, Brian Mulroney, Holly Hunter and David Thewlis.

If you were born on March 20, you are so sensitive and compassionate toward others that it may overwhelm you sometimes. While you are naturally optimistic, you are also so empathetic that seeing others in pain hurts you personally. Embrace this beautiful gift of sensitivity but practice a modicum of detachment to protect your own feelings and ward off depression. Your sense of loyalty is admirable, but you’ve got to learn to make yourself and your own needs a priority, too!

March 20 Pisces at Their Best: Insightful, compassionate, versatile

March 20 Pisces at Their Worst: Depressed, hyper-sensitive, weak

What to Wear: Soft pastels and relaxed-looking shirts, pants and skirts. Fairy godmother and knight in shining armor outfits are optional.

What to Eat: Clam chowder, shrimp cocktail, baked fish and sea scallops.

Who to Invite: All the millions of people who find their way into sentimental Pisces’ humongous heart.

Where to Go: Any water lover’s paradise like a river, pool, or the beach.

IF YOUR BIRTHDAY IS March 20, you are original. Your adaptable personality is suited well for party-goers. You can interact with anyone from any background. You are most attracted to nontraditional places, things, and people.

In social situations, you love to amuse people or to showcase your many talents. People are often attracted to you for your ability to set everyone at ease.

If you are a Piscean born on this day, your birthday personality characteristics show you to be inquisitive. You tend to develop a unique way of thinking that people may sometimes view as being odd.

Pisces, do not worry about that… keep on doing what you do. It is what makes you, You! Those with March 20 birthday, love their freedom and along with that, is your right to have your own experiences.

You are somewhat like the air we breathe. You can be high one day and low the next. When you are at your low, you can be reclusive and withdrawn.

There is a positive side to this, however. Yes… Pisceans will use this time to regroup or to reinvent themselves. You are on the right road to success. You have a great understanding of how you want your life to be.

On the negative side of Pisces zodiac birthday, 20 March people can be stubborn and competitive. You can get an idea in your head, and it is hard to get you to see otherwise.

Those born on this day would like to keep conflict to a minimum so this Piscean will not have many friends at all. Lessons learned from previous experience, it is easier that way and less drama is involved. You like to keep a positive attitude and avoid destructive influences.

Your birthday astrology predicts that your imagination needs fuel. You get your inspiration from others and your surroundings. Sometimes, Pisces, you get a gut feeling about something and it turns out to have favorable results.

This could be your inner self, leading you in the direction in which you should go. Listen to it especially regarding your financial affairs. It may be beneficial to you.

As the March 20 birthday horoscope foretells, you can excel at anything you do when it comes to your profession. However, you probably would be happiest in creative fields such as careers in writing or music.

Nature has a way of speaking to you when you involve yourself in spiritual things. In addition, Pisces, you would do well in the medical practice or social interaction since you love people and they love you as well.

As a Piscean, you are subject to illnesses relating to allergies or common ailments of the feet. It is also possible that you will have mental challenges. This could be due to a certain trauma in your life or something that is hereditary. Either way, you should seek professional help.

You cannot do some things on your own. It is human to reach for a drink of some kind when we are upset, but you, Pisces born on March 20, should avoid doing this. This kind of behavior can lead to a pattern of excessiveness. Pisceans are also at risk for eating disorders as well.

20 March Pisceans love to dress in free-flowing clothes while they are lounging at home. Often times, you can be in your bare feet. You do not shop at the major department stores for your bargains.

Pisces’ love to bargain hop visiting garage sales and thrift stores. You know you can find many interesting and unique things there. It is also a great way to give back to the community by using the local stores instead of those franchises and chains. You love a good buy and have a distinctive way of dressing.

You love yourself, Pisces. Self-love is a wonderful thing but you let other people’s opinion influence your decisions or and how you feel. You need to have a plan and order in your life.

The March 20 birthday meaning shows that you know exactly how you want things done and how they should turn out. Some of you born on this day are suited for most any profession but you will do well in the music field or something that can use your writing skills.

See: Famous Celebrities Born On March 20

This Day That Year – March 20 In History

1760 – Boston’s Great Fire destroys 349 buildings
1896 – In order to protect US citizens, Marine forces arrive in Nicaragua
1952 – Peace treaty with Japan is ratified
1976 – Patty Hearst is convicted on an armed robbery charge

March 20  Meen Rashi (Vedic Moon Sign)
March 20 Chinese Zodiac RABBIT

March 20 Birthday Planet

Your ruling planet is Neptune that symbolizes spirituality healing, feelings, emotions and mercy.

March 20 Birthday Symbols

The Two Fishes Are The Symbol For The Pisces Zodiac Sign

March 20 Birthday Tarot Card

Your Birth Day Tarot Card is The Moon. This card symbolizes psychic strengths, feelings, confusion, and doubts. The Minor Arcana cards are Ten of Cups and Queen of Wands

March 20 Birthday Compatibility

You are most compatible with people born under Zodiac Sign Cancer: This is an enchanting match that can be quite interesting.
You are not compatible with people born under Zodiac Sign Sagittarius: A relationship will be full of problems, fights, difficulties.

See Also:

March 20 Lucky Numbers

Number 2 – This number stands for caring, nurturing, sensitivity and tenderness.
Number 5 – This number symbolizes enthusiasm, innovation, experimentation and adventure.

Read about: Birthday Numerology

Lucky Colors For March 20 Birthday

Turquoise: This is a stable color that symbolizes psychic powers, sophistication, grounding, and optimism.
Silver: This color stands for elegance, mysticism, caring and wealth.

Lucky Days For March 20 Birthday

Thursday – This day is ruled by planet Jupiter. It symbolizes positive emotions, enthusiasm and wish to accomplish your goals.
Monday – This day is ruled by the Moon. It stands for nurturing, feelings, love, and emotions.

March 20 Birthstone Aquamarine

Aquamarine gemstone can help you connect to your spiritual inner self through meditation.

Ideal Zodiac Birthday Gifts For People Born On The 20th Of March:

An iPad for the man and a handmade jewelry box for the woman.

June 30, 2022 Current Moon Phase Digest

You can use this link to go forward or backward in time for Moon phase information. If you are curious, you can even find out what phase the Moon was in when you or anyone else was born.

From MoonGiant.com

The Moon’s current phase for today and tonight is a Waxing Crescent Phase. A Waxing Crescent is the first Phase after the New Moon and is a great time to see the features of the moon’s surface. During this phase the Moon can be seen in the wester sky after the sun dips below the horizon at sunset. The moon is close to the sun in the sky and mostly dark except for the right edge of the moon which becomes brighter as the days get closer to the next phase which is a First Quarter with a 50% illumination.

Visit the June 2022 Moon Phases Calendar to see all the daily moon phase for this month.

Today’s Waxing Crescent Phase

The Waxing Crescent on June 30 has an illumination of 2%. This is the percentage of the Moon illuminated by the Sun. The illumination is constantly changing and can vary up to 10% a day. On June 30 the Moon is 1.25 days old. This refers to how many days it has been since the last New Moon. It takes 29.53 days for the Moon to orbit the Earth and go through the lunar cycle of all 8 Moon phases.

The 8 Lunar Phases

There are 8 lunar phases the Moon goes through in its 29.53 days lunar cycle. The 4 major Moon phases are Full Moon, New Moon, First Quarter and Last Quarter. Between these major phases, there are 4 minor ones: the Waxing Crescent, Waxing Gibbous, Waning Gibbous and Waning Crescent. For more info on the Moon Cycle and on each phase check out Wikipedia Lunar Phase page.

Phase Details

Phase: Waxing Crescent
Illumination: 2%
Moon Age: 1.25 days
Moon Angle: 0.49
Moon Distance: 404,730.90 km
Sun Angle: 0.52
Sun Distance: 152,093,439.29 km

Useful Moon Resources

Check the weather before a night of Moon gazing at weather.com

For a list of all the current meteor showers visit American Meteor Society

August 9, 2024 Birthday Horoscopes

Click here for Anyone’s Birthday or Monthly Horoscopes Source: thehoroscope.co

Click here to read anyone’s birthday traits and more Source: sunsigns.org

Click here to read more about traits for anyone’s birthday horoscope Source: tarot.com

Joyful birthday wishes from Lady Carla Beltane with the WOTC Family and Friends!!

May the next year of your life bring you more love, laughter, joy, happiness, enough income to cover what you have to have along with a little leftover for fun! May it bring you everything you want if it is supposed to be and everything you need. May sorrow be unknown, and any negativity be minimal. May the wind always be at your back.

Being a Leo born on August 9th, you are creative and energetic. You don’t hesitate to show anyone when you are ready for something and often take a lot of chances.

You are sincere and fun to be around, even if at times you are quite direct and not everyone’s cup of tea. You are reliable and quite punctual. Prepare to read a detailed horoscope profile below.

 The zodiac sign for August 9 is Leo.

 Astrological symbol: Lion. The sign of the Lion represents people born July 23 – August 22, when the Sun is placed in Leo. It symbolizes an emotionally strong individual who is also courageous and loyal.

 The Leo Constellation is located between Cancer to the West and Virgo to the East and has Alpha Leonis as the brightest star. It is spread on an area of 947 sq degrees and its visible latitudes are +90° to -65°.

 The Lion is named from the Latin Leo, the zodiac sign for August 9. In Italy it is named Leone while the French call it Leo.

 Opposite sign: Aquarius. On the horoscope chart, this and the Leo sun sign are on opposite sides, reflecting affection and creativity and some sort of balancing act between the two with a creation of opposite aspects at times.

 Modality: Fixed. The modality proposes the determined nature of those born on August 9 and their persistence and amicability in regard to most life events.

 Ruling house: The fifth house. This zodiac placement represents life pleasures that come from simple things up to social contact. It reveals the areas that attract the most the attention of Leos.

 Ruling body: Sun. This association reveals support and help. The Sun’s position at one’s birthday determines the zodiac sign. The Sun also shares an insight on pride.

 Element: Fire. This is the element of those who confidently pursue their plans and who are quick to reveal their fiery nature. It works so to the benefit of those born on August 9.

 Lucky day: Sunday. This day is representative for the fun nature of Leo, is ruled by the Sun and suggests vision and strength.

 Lucky numbers: 5, 8, 10, 17, 26.

 Motto: “I want!”

 People born on August 9 benefit from being driven, convincing and even romantic. Just like a true Leo, they are direct and brave when faced with any life matter. They love to win at everything, whether it is a competition or simply the achievement of a simple task. They dislike coward people and can’t stand to lose anything. Those born under this sign enjoy situations where they can control and lead everything.

 Positive traits: These natives are revolutionary and avant-garde and make some of the best visionaries of times. They are the men of action of the future and when this couples with a bit of impulse and kind heart they tend to help others be more assured and overcome their fears. They are known to be emotionally forceful and they rarely show their deficiencies.

 Negative traits: Acknowledging that they can’t behave all possessive and vain is the way to go for these natives who are too controlling and too inflexible. They want to have it their way but they need to learn that compromise would often do them more good then the perpetual stubbornness they are displaying when other people are trying to get a bit of the spotlight that is always on them. They can exaggerate certain things just for the sake of the argument.

Love and Compatibility: Lovers born on August 9 are passionate and sensual. They like to take time and invest both emotionally and materially in the dating ritual. They are attracted to exciting and adventurous persons who are also very ambitious and can keep up with them. You can conquer the heart of Leo if you know how to balance the moments when you recognize their merits and celebrate them for who they are with the moments where you temper their risky impulses.

 Their love life is rather hectic and unpredictable because they tend to be in and out of love quite easy and for no particular reason. They find it hard to connect to a deeper level with one person. For them, relationships and settling will probably be a complex matter but once they decide to have their own family they will turn out to be very protective and patient. They are most compatible with those born on the 3th, 5th, 6th, 12th, 14th, 15th, 21th, 23th, 24th and 31st.

 August 9 Zodiac people are very attracted to the other fire signs: Aries and Sagittarius as they tend to share the same vision of life. In life, Leo is constantly seeking for a curious and passionate partner who can expand their horizon and the most suitable to offer this is the native from Aquarius. Leo is thought to be least compatible with Cancer. As for the rest of compatibilities between the other star signs and Leo, you know what they say, stars predispose but people dispose.

Lucky Color: The lucky color for those born under the August 9 is orange.

Orange is a hue that indicates enthusiasm and vitality mixed with endurance. The zodiac color should be used in items of clothing or objects in the house.

Those with orange as sign color are creative, optimistic persons for whom the world is a stage and they have so many things to show. They need to socialize, be accepted and respected as part of a group. This rich hue can bring a boost of energy and power to the charismatic Leo.

Other colors indicated for Leo are red and purple.

Representative Birthstone: The fiery Ruby is the birthstone defined for August 9 and in general for Leo natives.

Ruby is a precious material that denotes faithfulness and passion. This zodiac birthstone should be used in all kinds of jewelry items that are to be worn frequently.

It is thought to relax and open the mind of the wearer in social situations therefore helping communication and understanding. There are also many legends from different historic times involving the special properties of the Ruby.

Another gemstone considered beneficial for Leo natives is Peridot. It represents vitality and enthusiasm.

Characteristic Flower: Sunflower is the flower said to be representative for Leo people born with August 9.

Sunflower is a known symbol of warmth and happiness. The zodiac flower could be used in gifts and decorative items.

This is a fertile and happy flower, always searching for the sun just as Leo is in a permanent search for success. This flower is to be found during midsummer.

Other plants that suit Leo natives are Narcissus and Marigold.

Symbolic Metal: The metal for Leo natives born with the August 9 is Gold.

Gold symbolizes elegance, power and bravery. The zodiac metal could be used in accessories and jewelry items.

Gold is a precious metal with many benefic properties and also meanings related to healing and knowledge. A gold leaf may be only 0.19 microns thick.

Another metal considered lucky for Leo natives is Bronze.

Characteristics: August 9 Zodiac belongs to the second decan of LEO (August 2-August 12). This decan is under the supervision of the planet Jupiter. Those born in this period are enterprising and ambitious just like a true Leo and opportunists full of luck just as Jupiter makes them be. This period tempers the positive and negative characteristics of the Leo zodiac sign with a great accent on the positive ones.

 Being born on the 9th day of the month means compassion, responsibility, affection and a little bit of mystery. The numerology for August 9 is 9. This number reveals change, progress and innovation. In association with number nine Leo people turn out to be innovative and humanitarian idealists.

 August is the eight month of the year, bringing holidays and very hot, tense days. Those born in August are adventurous and romantic. August 9 Zodiac people are attractive and rebellious. August has as representative symbols the Gladiolus and Poppy as plants and the Peridot and Sardonyx as gemstones. The name comes from Augustus Caesar, the roman emperor.

What Statistics Say: In the Gregorian Calendar, August 9 is the 221st day of the year or the 222nd day in leap years, while until the end of the year there are 144 days left. The seventieth day of summer, this is also the International Day of the World’s Indigenous People as recognized by the UN.

 Leo is the eleventh zodiac sign in order from most common to least commonly met. Under a definite masculine symbolism, this odd number sign is considered to have a positive meaning with exuberant energy. This is defining for extrovert natives who are affable and forthcoming. Amongst the archetypes used when talking about this sign there is the Ruler. Many of the people born in the summer months are either in engineering or leadership positions.

 Famous people born on August 9 under the Leo zodiac sign: Amedeo Avogadro, Whitney Houston, Gillian Anderson and Anna Kendrick.

If you were born on August 9, you are the shining star of any team you might find yourself on! Whether it’s sports, work, or family, you are a well-liked, hardworking teammate. You know how to bring people together and make them feel like they’re a part of something important. This is an incredibly admirable trait that will make you a great leader and influencer. Make sure to carve out time for yourself! You can only prioritize everyone else for so long. Take care of number one!

August 09 Leo at Their Best: Inspirational, dedicated, caring

August 09 Leo at Their Worst: Righteous, bossy, prodding

What to Wear: Nothing that could possibly out-class the guest of honor. Arrange to fade into the background when the “star“ makes a grand entrance.

What to Eat: Caviar, foie gras, Chateaubriand and, of course, truffles!

Who to Invite: If heads of state can’t make themselves available, check if Beyonce, Brad Pitt, or a Kardashian might squeeze the soiree into their schedules.

Where to Go: A palace (or a diner that can be decorated like one) would be rather appropriate.

AUGUST 9 birthday horoscope says that your zodiac sign is Leo – The Lion. The Lion is strong and has a potential to be extremely creative. Your desire to be a success is great and so is the likelihood. You are charismatic and pleasant.

In order for the person born today to provide a comfortable life for the family, a stable career is necessary. Although stability is sought after, there may be some blockage due to this drive. It may be a good idea to let the lion roam so that creativity is restored. All eyes are watching your every move but you love it.

As an employer, the August 9th birthday personality has excellent leadership ability. Those in management positions usually go all the way up the chain. While you may have the enthusiasm for life, others may not.

It is your wish that you provide another avenue for them. You believe prosperity is for all and not just a limited few. It could be that you disapprove of poverty. However, occasionally, you can be somewhat of a snob.

The August 9th astrology analysis also predicts that on the other hand, your attitude can be infectious. Seeing others enjoying themselves does your heart good. You like being a part of that, and that is what keeps you grounded.

If today is your birthday, you inspire others to give their all in life. Personally and professionally, you are constantly growing. If you are not helping someone to do better, then those born on August 9 are unhappy. Inactivity can diminish this Leo’s capabilities.

Your friends and family love you. In spite of this, you need constant praise. As a young lion, you were impressionable and would crave praise as a means of affection. The Leo birthday horoscope for August 9 predicts that you do not take criticisms very well. Your self-confidence could have been crushed as a child so as an adult you are super sensitive.

To effectively communicate with a Leo born on this day, you could use a little wit. Laughter goes a long way with the person born under this zodiac sun sign. Many problems could be solved with a smile.

As a negative August 9 horoscope characteristic, you can be stubborn. You certainly willpower, as the optimist would say. Depending on how you look at it, it could be a good thing. It could be said that when you make up your mind about something, you stick with it until it has lost its usefulness.

A Leo in love will usually take the lead. You would think that the Lion would be strong, but you are just the opposite. You are likely to be a temperamental individual. Those with the birthday of August 9 mostly have idealistic notions when it comes to romance. It could be the reason why your feelings are so easily hurt.

However, the August 9 birthday meaning rightly predicts that you are supportive of your lovers and friends. Additionally, as you love to be seen or noticed, this could cause you conflict with your love interest. This in turn can lead to disappointments in the relationship department.

While dating, this August 9 zodiac birthday person, will generally treat his or her partner with loving kindness. You like to do it big with expensive hotel rooms and fine food. The person you would most like to share your experiences with should be independent and equally as smart as you are.

The August 9 zodiac analysis predicts that those born on this day, could be a sculptor, you have an eye for the unusual. Now, your imagination is not limited to work involving the hands. You are quite an actor. You love live music and could play an instrument.

It is possible that you have thought of auditioning for a few parts, but nothing ever came out of it. Maybe you have put the thought off until later in life. The child of a Leo is likely to be pampered and is an essential part of his or her life. Mostly as an occupation, you may look to recognizing your hobbies as being worthwhile and profitable.

A person with an August 9 birthday personality is capable of occupationally doing almost anything. You are extraordinarily gifted, and you possess a great deal of will-power. Being idle means to stifle your creativity. Characteristically, you may not handle criticisms very well, but you are likely a leader who is smart and inspiring.

Famous People And Celebrities Born On August 9

Mahesh Babu, Sam Elliott, Derek Fisher, Melanie Griffith, Whitney Houston, Michael Kors, Deion Sanders

See: Famous Celebrities Born On August 9

This Day That Year –August 9 In History

1803 – First-time horses are brought to Hawaii
1841 – 242 people died as a result of an Erie boat fire in Buffalo, NY
1923 – First NY State Golf Association is formed
1964 – The Rolling Stone’s first concert in the Netherlands

August 9 Simha Rashi (Vedic Moon Sign)
August 9 Chinese Zodiac MONKEY

August 9 Birthday Planet

Your ruling planet is Sun that symbolizes your present feelings, thoughts, and actions.

August 9 Birthday Symbols

The Lion Is The Symbol For The Leo Star Sign

August 9 Birthday Tarot Card

Your Birthday Tarot Card is The Hermit. This card symbolizes a period of contemplation, aloofness, solitude, and deliberation. The Minor Arcana cards are Six of Wands and Knight of Wands

August 9 Birthday Zodiac Compatibility

You are most compatible with people born under Zodiac Sign Leo: This match can be a battle of wits.
You are not compatible with people born under Zodiac Sign Pisces: There is no love in this match only sparks.

See Also:

August 9 Lucky Numbers

Number 8 – This number signifies your Karmic and materialistic goals in life.
Number 9 – This number signifies the charitable and humanitarian aspect of your personality.

Read about: Birthday Numerology

Lucky Colors For August 9th Birthday

Red: This color stands for love, action, enthusiasm, and revenge
Orange: This is an energizing color that stands for success, joy, trust, and balance.

Lucky Days For August 9 Birthday

Sunday – This is the day of the Sun that helps you plan your future and gives you the determination to fulfill your dreams.
Tuesday – This is the day of the planet Mars and is symbolic of ability to come out a winner if you avoid getting into useless arguments.

August 9 Birthstone Ruby

Ruby gemstone gives you courage and strength and makes you more passionate and energetic.

Ideal Zodiac Birthday Gifts For People Born On August 9th

A dinner suit for the man and an evening gown for the woman. The August 9 birthday horoscope predicts that you will love formal gifts.