Tag: Wicca

Wiccan Samhain

Wiccan Samhain

 

SAMHAIN (pronounced saw-an), commonly referred to as Halloween, is a religious holiday celebrated by Wiccan and witch. The festival traditionally is a feast for the gathering of the family in love and remembrance. All the family including one’s ancestors.
Wiccans do not regard physical death as an end but merely one more event in a continuing progress of the soul’s in its path toward fulfillment of divine destiny. Because of these beliefs, it is only natural at this time of year to invite our beloved ancestors to remember and to celebrate with us.
If you do not find these beliefs in conflict with your own personal beliefs, please join us in the following ritual of thanksgiving and remembrance.
Whether you join with us or not, May you walk in the Light of the Lady and know the Wisdom of the Lord.
Blessed Be.
The clergy and members of the United Wiccan Church.
***

After you have shared the bounty of your harvest with the children of your neighborhood (candy, etc) and the house has settled down for the night, disconnect or turn off your telephone so that this state of serenity will continue uninterrupted.
Prepare a special feast of whatever foods reminds you of a special departed friend or family member, or of past family gatherings. While you are preparing this feast think of all of the good times you had with them.
When the feast is prepared, set your holiday table with a special place of honor for the departed friend or family member.
Decorate the table and room as you would for a holiday dinner with the family, add those special things that are important to you and your family (flowers, candles,etc.) If you have a picture of the loved one, it is nice to place it at their place at the table.
Speak to that special person and invite them to join you in this celebration and time of remembrance. It is completely appropriate to say grace or offer any prayer that you feel is fitting.
THE FOLLOWING IS DONE IN COMPLETE SILENCE:
Serve the meal remembering to serve your honored guest (or guests) first. If wine or other alcoholic beverages are served, it is recommended that they be kept in moderation as you and your guests need to have a clear head.
Now sit down to the table with your loved ones and enjoy your feast. When you address them in your mind, always see them as well. (Try not to say in your mind, “if you can hear me…”, etc.). After the meal, the time of silence is over. Do whatever you normally do at a family holiday gathering (clear the table, play games, sing songs, etc.). Enjoy the companionship.
When the evening is over, or in the morning if you wish to make it an all night party, thank your invited guests for being with you and for making your celebration a special one.
*** There are a few words of caution that we will offer.
1. If this ritual does not feel right for you, do NOT do it. Follow your instincts.
2. Remember that crossing over does not necessarily change a person, so if you could not get through a meal in peace with them while they were alive, you will probably have the same problem with their spirit.
3. Do not ask your guest to grant you wishes or do you favors. It is rude to invite a guest and then make it obvious that a favor is the reason they were asked, not because of love and respect. Spirits do NOT like rudeness! Besides, spirits often forget that you are limited in ways that they are not. If you ask them for $1,000, it may come as an insurance settlement after a painful break in your water pipe with all the delight in cleaning up the mess from ensuing water damage.

ALL ABOUT SPELLS

ALL ABOUT SPELLS

The spell is at the heart of folk magick. it is simply a ritual in which various
tools are purposefully used, the goal is fully stated (in words, pictures or
within the mind): & energy is moved to bring about the needed result.

Spells can be as simple as reciting a short chant over a fresh rose while
placing it between 2 pink candles in order to draw love; forming & retaining an
image of the needed result in the mind; or placing a quartz crystal in a sunny
window for protection purposes.

To perform effective magick – 3 necessities must be present: The Need, the
Emotion & the Knowledge.

It has been said that magick was the first religion, & that if you lovingly
utilize the forces of nature to cause beneficial change, you also become one of
them.

It is these powers that have been personified as Goddesses & Gods. Attuning with
them is a spiritual experience & is the basic of all true religion.

COMPOSE THE RHYME OR WORDS OF POWER

Clearly state your need.

Clearly state all dimensions of your need (enduring love, rather than just love;
complete protection, rather than just physical protection; etc.).

If possible, mention some of the tools that you’ve decided to use in the spell
in your words of power or magickal rhyme. Indeed, for some spells, these words
may help you to structure the entire rhyme or chant.

Use hypnotic words (those beginning with ‘s” or containing a “z”) for psychic-
awareness, love, healing spells; Use potent, strong words for protection spells.
match the words to the type of ritual you’re composing.

Don’t expect the words to simply flow from you. Work at it & work with them.
Your psychic mind knows what you need.

EXAMPLES:

“I ask in the name of (Goddess & God or The All) that I, Morgan, be granted
(state desire)…I ask that this be correct & for the good of all people. So
mote it be. In no way will this spell reverse, or place upon me any curse.”

“In this night & in this hour, I call upon the Ancient power. O Goddess Bride &
Consort Bright, I ask thee now to bring your light.”

“I have a need that must be met. I ask thee (name of deity) that I obtain the
perfect (whatever it is) for (reason).”

“I ask the Universe to lend the power of all the correct astrological
correspondences so they may enter this circle now to obtain my desire.”

“Therefore, I specifically draw toward myself the (desire) without affecting the
free will of all & harming none.”

“I now proclaim this spell is done. The (desire) is mine! In no way will this
spell reverse, or place upon me any curse! As I will, so mote it be!”

“In this sacred space & time, We call now the Old Ones; the Goddess of the moon,
seas & rivers; the God of the rayed Sun, of valleys & forests; Draw near us
during this, our circle.
——————————————————————————–

BREAKING A SPELL

First Saturday after Full Moon or on a Full Moon; One white & One black candle
for balance; Props: protective nature (amethyst, apache tears or smoky quartz)

– Say:

“One the Eve of ( ) I cast a spell & the effect I created I must now quell.
Specifically ( ) May this spell be lifted & I now be gifted Specifically with
( )”

——————————————————————————–

SPELLS TO BIND
A binding spell is the act of grasping the negative energy that is propelling a
person or thing & stopping it. In a way, you are negating the unhealthy energy.

The most important thing to remember when conducting a binding spell is that you
must control your own violent emotions of hatred or fear. The binding spell is
for protection only, not for harm. This is not easy. The Goddess to be employed
is Aradia, Queen of Witches. Be sure you are honest in your intentions. Aradia’s
symbol is the red garter. If you desire justice call upon Maat, she who balances
the scales. However, you must be sure that your own hands are free from violence
& hatred, lest she weighs the scales for you as well! Her symbol is the pure
white feather.

The binding itself is a very simple matter. A poppet can be sewn to represent
the malicious person. Fill it with earth (grave dirt if you can find it),
rosemary, sage, a piece of smoky quartz & a piece of amethyst. Also enclose a
piece of the person’s fingernails, a lock of hair, or another personal item.
Handwriting can be enclosed if you have nothing else. Photos can be used also.
If your intention at any time during the ritual is to harm that person, remember
that you will only bring harm upon yourself – so be very, very careful.

If you can’t do the ritual right away, store the doll (with the head still open)
in a white cloth. During the ritual, you will sew up the head while connecting a
psychic link. Then you will proceed to sew arms & legs of the doll together. You
will finish by wrapping the doll mummy-fashion with a black ribbon. Bury the
doll when you have completed the ritual.

A person can also be bound using mental capabilities.

Placing a sample of a person’s handwriting & copper tightly in an old bell jar
is a way of stopping malicious gossip. When the danger is over, burn the
handwriting.

——————————————————————————–

WORKSHEET FOR SPELLS & FORMULAS

* Type of Spell or Formula:
* Date & Time Made:
* Reference:
* Astrological Phase:
* Specific Purpose:
* List Of Ingredients &/or Supplies Needed:
* Specific Location Required:
* Date, Time & Astrological Phase When Used:
* Results:
* Deities Invoked During Preparation &/or Use:
* Step By Step Instructions For Preparations &/or Use:
* Additional Notes:

——————————————————————————–

RITUAL RECORD SHEET

* Type of Ritual:
* Date & Time made:
* Moon Phase & Astrological Correspondences:
* Weather:
* Physical Health:
* Purpose of Ritual:
* Tools & Other Items Required:
* Deities Invoked:
* Approximate Length of Ritual:
* Results of Ritual:
* Ritual Composition:
* Additional Notes:

——————————————————————————–

Example of Basic Ritual Worksheet

BASIC RITUAL WORKSHEET

 

Use this as a guideline and feel free to add to it and print it out for your own personal journals.

Type of Ritual: _________________

 

Date and Time:________________

 

Moon Phase and Astrological:_______________________

 

Correspondences:_________________________________

 

Weather:________________________________________

 

Physical Health:__________________________________

 

Purpose of Ritual:_________________________________

 

Tools and Other Items Required:
_________________________________
_________________________________
_________________________________

 

Deities Invoked:
_________________________________
_________________________________

 

Approx. Length of Ritual:
_________________________________

 

Results of Ritual:
_________________________________
_________________________________
_________________________________
_________________________________
_________________________________
_________________________________

 

Ritual Composition:
_________________________________
_________________________________
_________________________________
_________________________________
_________________________________
_________________________________

 

Living The Life Of The Witch – Dedicate to the Craft

Dedicate to the craft

 

Your Magickal Name

When you are ready to dedicate to the craft you will be asked for a Magickal name.  Do not take this lightly.  Toy name speaks volumes about you.  Your  mundane name may be as common as John or Mary, but your magickal name will be unique to you.  As you progress in the magickal community, this is the name you  will be known by.

How do you go about getting you magickal name?  It will come to you.  Perhaps in a dream you will hear the Goddess call you by your name.  A friend may  see a quality about you can give you your name.

Don’t worry too much about your name – it will come.

When you dedicate it is the first step in changing your life path.  It is like you are being reborn.  With the new birth you are entitle to a new  name..

Dedication

How this ceremony is done will depend if you will be self dedication as a Solitary or as a member of a coven.  In either case the dedication is similar.

You will take a ritual bath.

Prepare you circle

Close the circle

Dedicate to the Goddess

Take your magickal name

Light silver candle

Dedicate to the God

Light gold candle

Drink wine and eat cakes

Release the Lord and Lady

Open the circle

Take remaining wine and some of the cakes outdoors and return some of it to the Earth.

Remember

Remember, you magickal name is who you are and who you hope to become

Your magickal name is Special.  Usually only yourself and members of the magickal community will know it.

By dedicating you are inviting the Lord and Lady into your life.  This is a very special moment.  Savory it.

If all you get out of the dedication experience are words – reconsider you actions.

 

 

 

More Fantasy Comments

Life As The Witch – The Witch’s Book Of Shadows

The Witch’s Book of Shadows

 

This is a book of beliefs, witchcraft laws, rituals, herbal and healing law, incarnations, chants, dances, divination  methods, spells, sabbat rites and other information which serves as a guide for witches in practising their craft and religeaon. Each tradition has its own  book of shadows.

In addition individual witches add their own personal material. This book must be kept secret at all times.

However sad to say some witches have gone public with their book over the years. In true tradition only one copy should be kept for a  coven. This is usually held by the High Priestess or High Priest.

The book of shadows should only ever be hand written. The secrets in the book are limited to the witches position in the  hierarchy.

Information in the book is passed out as the witch progresses through the ranks of the coven. If a witch leaves the coven the book must  stay with the coven.

Very little is known about “books of shadows” before the 20th century. In earlier times the secrets were generally passed down  through the generations orally.

Some hereditary witches claim their ancestors recorded secret spells and lore in little books. One of the first book of shadows to be  published was Charles Godfrey Leylands “Aradia” in 1899.

According to tradition a witches book of shadows is destroyed upon their death.

Witchcraft Is

Witchcraft Is

Witchcraft is a spiritual practice with it’s roots in European practice and dating back to the beginning of man. Most  people do not trace back their involvement with Witchcraft past the Middle Ages because of the lack of information that is available in solid form from  beyond that time as well as the fact that much of the retrieved information was written by Priests from the Christian church as falsified documents or  accounts of what they believed their practices to be. In fact, it was the Christians that gave the word “Witch” and “Witchcraft” to these  people and their practices and was not a term that they themselves used. Witchcraft involves the use of magick, although it is not required, and the honoring  of Gods, local or land spirits and Ancestors rather than worship.  

A SIMPLE HERBAL LIST

A SIMPLE HERBAL LIST

I’ve compiled a short list of some very beneficial herbs to keep in your Witches’ Cupboard if you have one, or if you want to start one.

I’ve also listed “The Witches’ 3 X 3” – a list of nine healing herbs, indicated by an (***) sign.

CAMPHOR

Pain reliever, heals skin – lips, nose, burns. Sacred to the Godess, used in full moon rituals as an offering to the Goddess, purification, promotes celibacy, heightens physical energy.

CATNIP***

treats colds, reduces fever, aids indigestion, curbs flatulence. Strengthens the psychic bond between humans and animals; for courage, true love, lasting happiness.

CAYENNE***

Very important first aid herb. Does not burn the skin or inner tissues, but feels hot. Helps coagulate blood, internally and externally. Can be sprinkled directly onto a bleeding cut. Good for heart disease.

CHAMOMILE***

Soothing to the body & mind, sedative before bed as a tea, mind pain reliever as a compress/ For good luck or changing your luck, prevents lightning strikes to your house or person, prosperity, meditation aid.

CLOVE

Eases toothache pain, calms stomach pain, relieves gas. Banishes hostility or negative energy, increases personal gain, clears a cloudy mind, increases friendship or love.

COLTSFOOT***

Pain relief, allergy & cough suppressant. Used in spells for wealth, prosperity & love.

COMFREY***

Very nutritious. Sooths the stomach, heals sprains, strains, fractures, sores, arthritis. Used in protection spells and safety when travelling.

DIAMIANA

Aphrodisiac, improves digestion, relieves cough. Use in sex magick spells, for clairvoyance, divination.

DEVIL’S SHOESTRING

Protection, luck, for a raise or new job; invisibility.

FENNELL

Aids digestion, can be chewed or brewed to tea for weight loss, gas relief, halitosis. Imparts strength & sexual virility. Prevents curses.

GALANGAL ROOT

Cleanses system internaly. Take at the onset of colds or flu. Doubles money in gambling, use to win in court. Sex magick, hex breaking, aids psychic powers.

GARLIC***

Good for hair, skin, digestion, lungs, blood health. Lowers cholesterol & blood pressure. Good for ear infections. Heals colds, flu. Tincture by steeping in olive oil. Use for magickal healing, protection, exorcism.

GINGER***

Relaxing stimulant! Use after large meals to settle stomach, induces perspiration while sweating out a fever, aids the liver. Powerful aphrodisiac when sprinkled in steeping raspberry leaf tea.

GINSING

Rejuvenates & promotes longevity. Andi-depressant. Use with St. John’s Wort. Equalizes blood pressure & digestion. For use in love spells, beauty & healing spells.

HEAL ALL

All purpose healing. Gargle with cold brew for a sore throat, use as a poultice for cuts, abrasions, minor contusions. Use in spells for success in gambling.

HIBISCUS

Anti-spasmodic. Remedy for itchy-skin or mild hives. Apply fresh brew or tonic to skin. Sweetens breath. Attracts love. Use for dream work or divination.

HIGH JOHN THE CONQUEROR

To conquer any situation. To win at gambling, in court. For good luck, money, love, health, protection. To find lost items.

JASMINE

Calmes nervous tic, use as a poultice for snakebite. Attracts money & love. For use in divination, charging crystals, moon magick.

KAVA KAVA

Powerful when used as an aphrodisiac. Potion to induce visions, use in astral travel work, for protection in travelling.

LAVENDER

ALL PURPOSE. Stomach problems, nausea & vomiting (used as a tonic) healing, inner peace, peace of mind, anti-stress, finding love, money, protection, attracting good spirits & faeries, purification, peaceful sleep, headache relief, menstrual cramp relief (when inhaled).

LOBELIA***

~~POISONOUS – USE EXTREME CAUTION~~ FOR USE IN SMALL DOSES ONLY!

Anti-spasmodic, anti-convulsive for epileptic seizures or temper tantrums. Calms pain in small doses, muscle spasms, tension headaches, menstrual cramps. Helps to end addictions & sooth withdrawls symptons.

MUGWORT

Appetite stimulant, digestive aid. Visions, dreams, clairvoyance, protection, strength in travelling. To consecrate divination tools, to add or boost power in tools of scrying.

PATCHOULI

Reverses spells, peacefully gets rid of trouble makers. Use in clairvoyance, divination, sex magick. Use to manifest & draw money.

PENNYROYAL

~~CAUTION – USE IN SMALL DOSES ONLY~~

Repels insects, calms skin itch or nervous itch. Treats & soothes nausea, treats colds & flu. Use in consecration rituals, exorcism.

PEPPERMINT

Soothes nausea & upset stomach, heartburn, colds, flu. Calming, good for motion sickness. Promotes peaceful sleep, visionary dreams. Boosts psychic abilities.

PLANTAIN***

Blood detoxifier for treatment of poison ivy, snakebite, bee stings, mosquito bites, etc. Apply juice of crushed leaves to bites & stings. Reapply often, drink brew of leaves made into tea, eat & chew on fresh leaves.

RASPBERRY LEAF

for kidney strength, infections. Diarreah, nausea, colds and flu. Calming to the nerves as a tonic. Promotes peaceful sleep. Use for visionary work, protection, love spells.

ROSEMARY

Nerve stimulant, digestive aid. Aids memory, soothes headache, eases depression when inhaled. Use for protection, exorcisms, purification, healing, stimulate lust. Powerful fumitory.

ROSE HIPS

Very nutritious, high in Vitamin C. Take for colds or flu, reduces fever. Mild laxative, good for acne. For spells concerning good luck, use to summon good spirits.

SAGE

Use as an antiperspirant, healing to wounds. Aids digestion, relieves muscle and joint pain. Gargle to heal sores of the mouth & gums. Healing to colds & flu, reduces fever, preservative. For use in spells for wisdom, healing, money, protection, longevity, powerful fumitory for ritual.

SANDALWOOD

Use a poultice for bruises & minor contusions, reduces fever. For use in clairvoyance & protection spells, purification, meditation. Burned in rituals, aids in magickal work, stimulates sexual urges, aids in healing spells.

SKULLCAP

Tranquilizer & anti-insomniatic. Sedative (mild to moderate) Eases nervous tension, drug & alcohol withdrawl symptoms, eases menstrual symdrome. Use for fidelity, commitment. Relieves anxiety. Promotes relaxation & peaceful feeling.

ST. JOHN’S WORT

Wound healing, immune system booster. Anti-insomniatic, headache relief, eases menstrual cramps. Powerful anti-depressant. Use for protection, exorcism, courage, divination rituals.

TONKA BEANS

~~CAUTION! USE EXTERNALLY!~~

For guud luck, draws money, attracts material desires. Wish magick.

VALERIAN

Calms nerves, sleep aid. Treats nervous conditions. Antispasmodic. Reduces blood pressure. Use in love magick, purification, divination, black magick.

VERVAIN

For minor pains and headache, tooth ache, arthritis, other inflammations. For restful sleep, calming nerves. For protection, purification, consecration, potions for love, creativity.

***************************************************************

Because so many herbs are potentially poisonous in various amounts, take extreme caution when dealing with a plant or herb you’re unsure of. Consult a physician, pharmacist or horticulturist before ingesting anything you are uncertain of!

Daily OM for October 2 – Intention and Intuition

Intention and Intuition

The Purpose of an Altar

byMadisyn Taylor

The purpose of having an altar in your home can be as simple as reminding you to take time for serenity each day.

If you didn’t grow up with an altar in your home, having an altar now may seem like an exotic and unattainable idea. Yet having an altar does not have to be complicated or difficult, nor does it need to be based on a religion or a set of ideas that don’t seem to relate to you. An altar can be a simple, personal expression of what you want to focus on right now. You do not have to build anything or take up a lot of space. You do not have to buy anything new or follow a complex set of instructions to create your altar. All you have to do is have a general understanding of what an altar is and the willingness to allow yourself access to this wonderful, ancient tool of transformation.

At its most essential, an altar is simply a raised structure that serves as a resting place for meaningful objects. It focuses the eye and provides a place for contemplation and, if so desired, ritual. All of these elements can be quite simple. One idea for a simple altar is a pot with a bulb planted in it, set on a box. This altar to growth can act as a reminder to you that all living things bloom in their time. A simple ritual might be to write down dreams you would like to see come to fruition on scraps of paper. You might place these scraps of paper in the box, or under the flowerpot, or in an envelope you prop against the pot. As the flower grows, so will your dreams.

If you look around your home, you may find that you have already created altarlike arrangements without even really thinking about it; this is something we humans do quite naturally. A candle, a decorative box, and a vase of flowers are just a few of the common household objects that lend themselves naturally to the creation of an altar. Simply add intention and intuition, and you have created your first altar. Remember that it isn’t necessarily about the objects you place at your altar—it is the time you spend with it daily, taking the time to be with it for your sacred time.

Daily OM

The Wicca Book of Days for Tuesday, Oct. 2 – Guardian Spirits

The Wicca Book of Days for Tuesday, Oct. 2

Guardian Spirits

The Wiccan community has embraced the concept of guardian angels in recent years, but the belief that each individual has a spirit guide and protector from harm is ancient, universal, and inherent in the animist beliefs of paganism, according to which every natural object has a spirit guardian (and a soul). Icelandic lore tells for instance of the fylgia, or the “shadow-soul” that accompanies every person wherever they go while the Native American vision quest results in young men being granted visions of their own guardian spirit, which typically takes the form of an animal or bird.

Angelic Feathers

It is said that every white feather that flutters into one’s path has fallen from the wing of an angel, and is a sign that your guardian angel is watching over you. Resolve to preserve every white feather that you come across in future , and if you can, meditate on one today.

Your Rune for September 29 is Thurisaz

 

Your Rune For Today

Thurisaz        

Thurisaz embodies the polarity of life and death and the struggle to keep them in balance. Expect conflict, hardship and obstacles, but be assured that remaining focused and in touch with your inner strengths will see you through whatever comes your way. This Rune may also represent protection from your enemies, which is never a bad thing.

It A Super, Super Beautiful Saturday, my friends!

Surprise, Surprise we are up at the crack of dawn, lol! Well for me, it’s the crack of dawn. Remember I am the night owl. I think I went to bed about 3 a.m., and now up. I feel a nap coming on, lol!

I have something that I wanted to tell you.  We are all up and working because we are going to double post today. What I mean by that, right after I get through doing today’s horoscopes, tarot, runes and etc., I will turn right around and post tomorrow’s. From now on, we will be running a day ahead in our postings. I am sure everyone will enjoy this. Now there will be no more daily horoscopes at twelve o’clock in the afternoon. You will have all that info waiting for you to read when you get ready.

There is a reason though for us changing our policy. We have had numerous, and I mean numerous, emails from our friends down under. Also from others that are a day ahead of us or in other time zones than the States. I have never thought about it but they all mentioned they loved following the blog, but…..they were reading everything that happened yesterday. We discussed it among ourselves and we decided that it would be a good idea to run a day ahead. Like I stated earlier, I believe people in the States would even enjoy that. I know I have had a few complaints because I can’t get up earlier. Well this takes care of that problem, lol! So to get this rolling, we have to have a day when we double post and this will get us on track. Today is the day we decided to do just that. I wanted to let everyone know what was going on and about our new publication changes. I think you will enjoy them. If you do, please let me know. If you don’t, let me know that too. You are not going to hurt my feelings because we publish this everyday for you to enjoy. If you aren’t enjoying our work, we want to know about it.

Now for all of you down under, I want you to spread the word about this little old group in Kentucky. OK! That goes for everyone else in all those different time zones too! Spread the word! Remember it is the WOTC’s goal to be the number one Pagan resource on the net! We need your help to do that. By doing so you are helping us spread the truth about our Religion and the Goddess and Her Love. So come on, spread the word, get those followers for us. Remember most of all, we love everyone of you. We are all part of one huge family that spans the whole wide world. And this is just my opinion but I think it is the greatest family on the planet. No matter if we are Witches, Wiccans, Druids or whatever, we are all on family. It is absolutely beautiful how we can all come together, you know it. With your help and the Goddess’ Love and Inspiration, we will bring Witchcraft back into the mainstream of today’s Religions.

WE LOVE YA’!

Let’s get this show on the road! Have a Super, Fantastic weekend, my luvs!

 

 

More Saturday Comments

Witch hunt

Witch hunt

Sitting in my family’s cabin,
Stitching away at cloth.
My brother’s play, my mother prays,
My father shines his gun.

Outside the wooden door,
Shouts ring out, the light of torches
Casting shadows like demons on our home.

There will be a hanging,
A witch was found in town.
Rope around her neck,
She was quiet, she was easily found.

Her craft was pure,
She practiced alone.
The towns women blamed her, with untrue curses
And screamed about Satan and hell.

She was my friend,
I, her mentor,
Even though we both practice the craft
I could not save her.

Later in the year,
Snow powdered the ground.
I sat in a clearing of snow,
Grinding herbs for my god.
Not the puritan’s god, never their god.

Hark! A twig snaps under a boot.
Turning my head into the biting wind,
A glove-clad hand grabbed my hair,
And dragged me through the ferns.

Soon a witch would burn.

He dragged me through town,
Tied me to a wooden pole,
And called out “Witch, Witch” for all.

People gathered,
Eyes wide with fear.
The man lit the fire,
My family solemn, never shedding any tears.

The flame reared up like an animal,
Hissed at my feet like a snake. My father, nor mother, ever called out my name.

I called out to the town’s folk.
My voice echoing through the air,
‘I will be born again. Wait.”

The flame licked at my hip, and swallowed me whole.
A birthmark now rests on that hip.
This is my new life.

You see me in your town,
Even in your classroom.

I’m born again, and I’ll burn nevermore.

Reference:

Author ~ Ashley Burnam

http://www.poemhunter.com/

Living The Life of The Witch – Decision, Decision, Decision!

Witchy Comments=

TO CURSE OR NOT TO CURSE: THAT IS THE QUESTION

Over the course of your magickal practice, this is a question that’s eventually going to pop up. So, maybe some exploration is in order:  Just exactly what warrants a curse and what doesn’t?

The fact that Joe got the job you wanted probably doesn’t warrant anything other than crossing off that place of employment and sending out resumes to the next ten on your list. And if you want to work a little magick to get one of those positions, so be it.

But what if the situation isn’t that simple? What if the job in question was an inner company promotion, and you happen to know that Joe willfully sabotaged you? Maybe he took credit for some of your work–work that may have either qualified you for the position or caused the department head to take special notice of your application. Perhaps he even lied about you, saying that you were difficult to work with, that you weren’t a team player, or that you had an attitude problem. Is that any reason to curse him?

Maybe. Maybe not. It just depends on the circumstances. And to come to a rational decision, you’re going to have to look at the whole picture.

First, review the job description again, and really scrutinize the duties involved. If they’re vague, Joe may have done you a favor, even if unwittingly. It might be that the job in question would take up more time than you’re willing to give: time that would be best enjoyed somewhere else or even spent with your family. It could also be that the extra money involved is not worth what it’s going to take to earn it. And if either is likely, then curses should be the furthest thing from your mind. In fact, you should probably think seriously about sending Joe a congratulatory gift.

But what if neither of those scenarios is true? What if Joe simply set out to ruin your reputation with the company—a company you’ve given your all to—and is now doing his dead level best to get you fired?

While none of that is good by any stretch of the imagination. I’m not sure such action truly deserves a curse either. Why? Because you definitely have other options. You could work magick to protect your job. You could work magick to shed light on Joe’s behavior and show him to all concerned for the jackass that he really is. And if you’re suddenly feeling magnanimous–which is doubtful at this point–you could even go so far as to work magick so that Joe find a position more to his liking outside of the company. Any of those options will take care of the situation nicely–and without the need of a curse.

But now, let’s change the scenario a bit. Let’s say that you’ve been the victim of Joe’s sexual harassment for a very long time and that the promotion was your ticket out of that mess. Let’s say that when he found out you’d decided to apply for the job, he not only lead you to believe that the problems with him would get much worse than you ever dreamed if you went through with it, but he promised to ruin you with the company. That’s not all. He also promised to personally squelch any chance of your getting alternative employment in the area. You’ve already seen how he works, so there’s no doubt he can make good on all of this.

Now do you have good reason for a curse? You bet you do.

Of course, if you’d just turned Joe in to his superiors when he made his first lascivious move–if you’d decided to fight instead of flee back then–he wouldn’t be in any position to bother you. In fact, he probably wouldn’t even still be with the company. You could have avoided this whole mess, you might be sitting pretty in your new corner office, and there would be no reason for any sort of magick at all.

While playing the would’ve should’ve-could be game is normally a complete waste of time, it definitely bears some thought here. For one thing, we need to learn from our mistakes. But perhaps more importantly, this sort of self-examination helps us to figure out what else is necessary to keep us from ever having to curse someone again. And if often takes some mighty deep digging to get to the root of the problem and yank it from our lives forever.

So why didn’t you report Joe’s inappropriate behavior when he first got out of line? Chances are, you were afraid. But since precisely what you were afraid of holds the key here, that’s what we need examine. Was it that you thought reporting him wouldn’t solve the problem and that his superiors wouldn’t take you seriously? Were you afraid that Joe would twist things around in such a way that you’d lose your job? Or were you simply afraid of that sick feeling that makes your stomach churn every time you’re faced with confrontation?

Since such is usually the case when folks won’t stand up for themselves, I’m betting on the latter. And for all practical purposes, let’s say I’m right. What you need now–before you even think of performing that curse– is something to keep you from ever being in that position again. You need some gumption.

Dorothy Morrison has given “The Gimme Gumption Spell” to go along with this article. The spell will following right behind this article.

References:

Excerpt from:

“Utterly Wicked”
Curses, Hexes & Other Unsavory Notions
By Dorothy Morrison
 

~Magickal Graphics~

Oh, It Is A Glorious Tuesday! Wishing You A Very Blessed Day, My Friends!

 

The Law of the Power

The Power shall not be used to bring harm, to injure or
control others. But if the need rises, the Power shall be
used to protect your life or the lives of others.

The Power is used only as need dictates.

The Power can be used for your own gain, as long as by
doing so you harm none.

It is unwise to accept money for use of the Power, for it
quickly controls its taker. Be not as those of other
religions.

Use not the Power for prideful gain, for such cheapens
the mysteries of Wicca and magick.

Ever remember that the Power is the sacred gift of the
Goddess and God, and should never be misused or abused.

And this is the law of the Power.

The Law

We are of the Old Ways, among those who walk with the
Goddess and God and receive Their love.

Keep the Sabbats and Esbats to the best of your
abilities, for to do otherwise is to lessen your connection
with the Goddess and God.

Harm none. This, the oldest law, is not open to
interpretation or change.

Shed not blood in ritual; the Goddess and God need not
blood to be duly worshipped.

Those of our ways are kind to all creatures, for hurtful
thoughts are quiet draining and aren’t worth the loss of
energy.

Misery is self-created; so, too, is joy, so create joy and
disdain misery and unhappiness. And this is within your
power. So harm not.

Teach only what you know, to the best of your ability, to
those students who you choose, but teach not to those
who would use your instructions for destruction or
control. Also, teach not to boost pride, forever
remember: She who teaches out of love shall be enfolded
in the arms of the Goddess and God.

Ever remember that if you would be of our way, keep the
law close to your heart, for it is the nature of the Wicca
to keep the Law.

If ever the need arises, any law may be changed or
discarded, and new laws written to replace them, so long
as the new laws don’t break the oldest law of all: Harm
None.

Blessings of the Goddess and God on us all.

Reference:

The Law & The Law Of Power, Author Scott Cunningham

More Tuesday Comments

Why Spells Don’t Always Work

WHY SPELLS DON’T ALWAYS WORK

Spell casting, in and of itself, is not difficult. Generally, it follows an

easy formula with separate and distinct steps. A spell is a procedure to

follow to reach a desired end. It does not require a great deal of money, a

huge compendium of tools, or exotic ingredients to work. It does require

faith in yourself and a connection with deity.

When describing spells to non-magickal people, a witch will often tell them

that a spell is much like a prayer. You are calling upon divinity to assist

you, as in a prayer, but a spell requires more than just pleading to divinity

to help you out of a jam. In a spell YOU are an active ingredient. Your

faith and your knowledge are as important as understanding there is divinity

out there to call upon.

Many of you have already heard of the Witches’ Pyramid, the foundation of our

magickal acts: To Know, To Will, To Dare, and To Be Silent. This pyramid is

the underlying structure of any spell formula.

To Know

Before you can cast a spell, you need to know who you are. Ego aside, you

have to come to terms with who you are, how you operate, and why you do the

things you do.

The second thing you must know is precisely what you want. This is not as

easy as it seems. People rarely sit back and consider what they really want

out of life. Part of this is because they are afraid. They fear they may not

get what they want, and they fear that they will fail. These fears stop us

from knowing.

For example, time and time again people I know have spelled for love. They

have not done the ultimate no-no by targeting a specific person, but they do

something just as bad–they don’t really know what they ultimately want.

When they get what they spelled for, often they are disappointed, because

there is something attached to that new lover they didn’t think of.

Therefore, all spells must be specific.

One of the best ways to begin a working is to write out, in detail, exactly

what you want in one straight line on a piece of paper. Underneath,

phonetically begin to pare each word down. Underneath that line, pare the

words down again. Continue this procedure until only one letter from each

word is left. Interlock the few remaining letters into a sigil. Use this

sigil in whatever magickal application you have chosen to ensure your spell

remains specific.

To Will

Another stumbling block in spell casting is lack of will, whether it is will

power, belief, or conviction. Will depends on how badly you want to make a

change. Do you believe you are capable of making the change, or do you think

it is only wishful thinking? Are you willing to re-program your mind, your

environment, your relationships, in order to bring about the change you

desire? Without will, a spell will fizzle. Is your mind fogged with doubt,

or unnecessary problems that will prevent bringing about the change you say

you want?

One of the best techniques for increasing your will power is the use of

meditation on a daily basis. Once you have learned to relax, use the alpha

state to program the events you wish to come to pass. You should work on

both short-term and long-term goals.

Another technique that is useful in spell casting is to write down why you

wish to manifest something. Let this explanation sit on your altar

overnight, then re-read it. Does it make sense? Is this what you really

want? Does your reasoning still appear firm, or is it full of holes?

Are you patient? Patience has a lot to do with will. Once you have a firm

grip on “will,” you are a third of the way through on accurate spell casting.

To Dare

To dare means you are not inclined to sit around on your laurels. It means

that you are not choosing to procrastinate, rather you are choosing to move

with purpose. To dare indicates that you are no longer afraid of the

outcome, or fear failure. You are confident that you control your own

destiny to the point where you won’t even argue about it, either with someone

else, or yourself.

Although “to dare” doesn’t appear to create a lot of work, it does require

you to make an active decision. This is the next catalyst for your magickal

operation. From here, you will plan the appropriate day, hour, moon phase,

astrological energies, and tools required for working magick, including what

divinity you will choose. To dare can lead to a great deal of work and

preparation.

To Be Silent

Even if you are an adept, you should learn to be quiet about your magickal

operations. There is only one exception, which is when you are working with

a group. If the group mind is actively participating on a project they

should be informed of their success or failure.

In the beginning, you should be silent so that you are not affected by

others’ opinions. Don’t tell them what you are performing magick for, as you

risk failure. Why? Because they can unconsciously affect you with their

disbelief or negativity.

Likewise, once you become proficient at spell casting, don’t announce

it–especially to a novice. No real adept will ever tell a novice that “My

spells always work.” Not only is it rude, it is also untrue. Everyone

fails. Imagine what a novice would think if they knew you lost your job,your

kids are running rampant, and you are deeply in debt. If your spells always

worked, you would not be in such a fix, would you? Foolish words can ruin

your reputation, which in turn, will ruin your own self-confidence.

Therefore, keep your trap shut–this ensures success in your magickal

operations as well as keeping your reputation intact. No one likes a

braggart, and no one considers an egotistical Witch a good leader or cleric.

When Spell’s Fail

Try this chant

Oh God/dess (whoever you worship) I am not worthy of

your perfect grace, nor the magick i find within myself

and within you. I ask now in Just, for i have grown weak

that thou would accompany me in rituals and spells.

Be By my side in this time of need. I do not deserve you

Oh God/dess. but still i ask, for i am only but a mortal

Oh God/dess, Bless me!

Oh God/dess, accompany me!

Oh God/dess, Shine light upon me!

Oh God/dess, grant me wisdom!

Oh God/dess, Grant me Humility!

Oh God/dess, Stay with me!

Oh God/dess, Protect me from evil!

Oh God/dess, I love thee above all things!

Please Oh ancient ones, hear me!

Amen

 

Reference:

Witches Of The Craft at Yuku.com

The Wicca Book Of Days for September 21 – Autumnal Equinox

Mabon Comments & Graphics

The Wicca Book Of Days for September 21

Autumnal Equinox

 

On the Autumnal Equinox, which generally occurs on September 22 – give or take a day – Wiccans celebrate the (lesser) Sabbat that they may call Mabon. With the fruits of the earth safely gathered in, there is at last time for a harvest festival, and for thanksgiving. Yet while day and night may be of equal length, the balance will imminently shift in favor of darkness, and everything associated with it, including death. And it is now that the Horned God, having conquered the demons of the underworld, returns to Earth to claim the Goddess, so that together they descend to their dark realm.

Meditate on Mabon

 Mabon heralds a time of turning inward. This is a good occasion on which to give thanks to the Goddess and Horned God for their fruitfulness and for all that you have metaphorically reaped this year. You may also want to plan your spiritual development for the coming months.

~Magickal Graphics~

Autumn Equinox

Mabon Comments & Graphics 

Farewell, O Sun, ever returning light. The hidden

God, who ever yet remains. He departs to the land

of youth, through the gates of Death, to dwell

enthroned, the judge of Gods and man. The horned

leader of the hosts of Air. Yet, even as stand unseen

about the circle the forms of the Mighty Lords of

the Outer Spaces, So dwelleth he, ‘the lord within

ourselves.’ So dwelleth he within the secret seed, the

seed of new reaped grain, the seed of flesh, hidden

in the earth, the marvelous seed of the stars.

‘In him is life, and life is the light of men,’

that which was never born and never dies.

Therefore the Wicca weep not, but rejoice.”

– The Book of Shadows (1957)

Gerald Gardner

  

~Magickal Graphics~

The Magical Energy of Apples

The Magical Energy of Apples

By Patti Wigington

Apples are magical, especially around the time of the autumn harvest.

Apple Divination

Apples have always been popular tools for foretelling the future. There are a number of traditional methods in folklore for seeing who one’s lover might be.

  • Peel the apple, keeping the peel in one long piece. When the peel comes off, drop it on the floor. The letter it forms is the first initial of your true love’s name.
  • Wait until midnight and cut an apple into nine pieces. Take the pieces into a dark room with a mirror (either hanging on the wall or a hand-held one will do). At midnight, begin eating the pieces of apple while looking into the mirror. When you get to the ninth piece, throw it over your shoulder. The face of your lover should appear in the mirror.
  • If a girl has more than one potential lover, peel an apple and pull out the seeds. Place a wet seed on your cheek for each boyfriend. The last one left stuck to the skin represents the suitor who is the true love.

Apple Magic

Because of its associations with the harvest, the apple is perfect for Mabon magic. Try the Apple Harvest rite, or honor the goddess Pomona at the harvest.

  • Mabon Apple Harvest Rite: This harvest ritual is designed with solitary Wiccans and Pagans in mind, and uses the apple and its five-pointed star as the focus. Honor the ancient gods at Mabon with this harvest ritual.
  • Pomona, Goddess of Apples: Pomona was an obscure Roman goddess, but she still has significance when it comes to the blooming of orchards and fruit trees in the fall.
  • Magic of the Apple Blossoms: The apple is associated with immortality, but is also considered a food for the dead, which is why it often makes its appearance at Mabon celebrations.

Apple Crafts

In addition to being tasty and sweet, apples are perfect for craft projects. Try one of these to decorate your home with magical apple energy.

  • Apple Candleholders: Make a set of decorative candleholders by coring out the top of a pair of apples.
  • Apple Garlands: This easy-to-make craft not only looks pretty, but will leave your home smelling delicious and welcoming!
  • Apple Butter: Brew up a pot of delicious apple butter to celebrate the harvest.

How To Celebrate an Autumn Full Moon – Group Ceremony

How To Celebrate an Autumn Full Moon – Group Ceremony

Celebrate the autumn full moon outdoors!

In addition to — or instead of — holding a monthly Esbat rite, some Wiccan and Pagan groups prefer to have a season-specific full moon ceremony. During the autumn months, the harvest season begins with the Corn Moon in late August, and continues through September’s Harvest Moon  and the Blood Moon of October. If you’d like to celebrate one or more of these moon phases with a ritual specific to the harvest, it’s not hard. This rite is written for a group of four people or more, but if you needed to, you could easily adapt it for a solitary practitioner.

Here’s How:

  1. Try to hold this ritual outside. Fall nights are usually crisp and cool, and a perfect time for outdoor rituals. Ask each member of the group to bring an item to place on the altar — something that represents the bounty of the harvest. Decorate the altar with these seasonal goodies. Some ideas would be:
    • A basket of apples
    • Gourds, squashes, or small pumpkins
    • Indian corn
    • Colorful leaves
    • Stalks of grain or wheat

     

    You’ll want to include quarter candles, as well as a cup of wine or cider. If you’re including Cakes and Ale as part of your celebration, place your cakes on the altar as well.

  2. Assign a member of the group to call each quarter. Each person should stand at their assigned quarter holding their unlit candle (and a lighter or matches), and facing the altar. If there are more than four of you present, form a circle.

    Some traditions choose to begin rites facing east, while others prefer the north. This ritual begins with the calling of the north quarter, but you can adjust or adapt it based on the needs of your own tradition.

  3. The person in the north quarter lights their green candle, holds it to the sky, and says:

    We call upon the powers of Earth, and welcome you to this circle. May the fertile soil of the land bring us prosperity, abundance, and the bounty of the land, in this time of harvest.

    Place the candle on the altar.

  4. The person to the east should light her yellow candle, hold it to the sky, and say:

    We call upon the powers of Air, and welcome you to this circle. May the winds of change bring us wisdom and knowledge in this season of abundance and bounty.

    Place the candle on the altar.

  5. Moving to the south, light the red candle and hold it to the sky, saying:

    We call upon the powers of Fire, and welcome you to this circle. May the shining light of this season’s moon illuminate our way through the coming winter.

    Place the candle on the altar.

  6. Finally, the person to the west lights the blue candle, holds it to the sky, and says:

    We call upon the powers of Water, and welcome you to this circle. May the cool autumn rains wash away the last comforts of summer, and prepare us for the chill that is to come.

    Place the candle on the altar.

  7. Have everyone in the circle join hands and say:

    We gather tonight by the light of the moon, to celebrate the season, and rejoice. May the next turn of the Wheel bring us love and compassion, abundance and prosperity, fertility and life. As the moon above, so the earth below.

    Go around the circle, passing the wine or cider. As each person takes a sip, they should share one thing they are looking forward to in the coming month. Do you hope to manifest financial independence? Develop your intuitive powers? Or are you perhaps hoping to grow your relationships? Now is the time to state your intent.

  8. Take a moment to reflect on the bounty of the season. When everyone is ready, either move on to your next ceremony — Cakes and Ale, Drawing Down the Moon, healing rites, etc. — or end the ritual.

Tips:

  1.  Quarter candles are colored candles based on the colors of the four cardinal directions: green for north, yellow for east, red to the south and blue in the west.

What You Need

  • Candles for each of the four quarters
  • A cup of wine or cider
  • Symbols of the harvest to decorate the altar