Tag: Wicca

The Wicca Book of Days for Feb. 18th – Mighty Ash

The Wicca Book of Days for February 18th

Mighty Ash

The Celtic tree month of the Ash begins today, and will last until the Alder takes over on March 18th. Yggdrasil, the Norse world tree, was envisaged as a mighty Ash, and this is just one of the reasons why the Ash was considered to supply stability and strength (another is that its hard-wearing wood was favored for spear shafts and tool handles). The ancient Greeks believed that serpents fled from the Ash tree, so that it also had protective powers, that is, unless you sheltered under it during a thunderstorm, for according to an old English rhyme, “And shun the Ash/It courts the flash.”

 

“A Heavenly View”

Take inspiration from U. S. astronomer Clyde W. Tombaugh, who discovered the planet Pluto on February 18, 1930, to do some stargazing of your own this evening, perhaps after wrapping up warmly and venturing out in the dead of night. Communing with the heavens will be time wonderfully spent.

Spirits of the Element of Air

The Elemental spirits associated with Air are called sylphs, and their ruler is named Peralda. The word sylph comes from the Greek word sylpha, which means “butterfly.”  When you see butterflies fluttering on the wind, sylphs are inevitably nearby. Sylphs may be the easiest entities to invite to a ritual because air exists as easily in a tenth-floor apartment as it does in an outdoor circle. Sylphs especially tend to gravitate to creative endeavors, so they are most easily called by artists, writers, poets, and musicians. They inspire the creative spirit, much like muses, and aid in shaping clear communication. It isn’t unusual to feel a sylph touch your hand or toss your hair while you’re busy creating. Don’t be alarmed;they are just giving you some creative encouragement.

Sylphs stimulate mental balance, freedom, and curiosity. They assist us in coordinating our perception and in verbalizing them. They enhance the power of speech, music, and the written word, especially poetry. They, teach us about the relationship between all things, which allows us to see and know the great web that connects all of life. This, in turn, brings about a desire for greater harmony. Sylphs stimulate creativity, intuitiveness, and inventiveness, and they awaken the intellect. They can open us to the realm of ideas and help us with mystical experiences and world views.

Like the wind they dance on, sylphs are changeable, volatile, and occasionally flighty. If you’ve ever experienced writer’s block, you now what it means to have the sylphs disappear and take their creative energy with them. Bt it’s easy to call them back.

The Element of Air

Air is the Element of the East, and might be represented on an altar by incense, feathers or an athame. It can be as soft as a whispered breath and as violent as a tornado, so it isn’t an Element to be taken lightly. It should come as no surprise that particularly persistent winds have even been given names — the Scirocco winds in the Mediterranean and the Santa Ana winds on the United States West Coast, for example. When these winds blow, they can literally change people’s temperaments an often fan wild fires. When mixed with another powerful Element, Water, Air can produce a fury we call hurricanes.

But Air is a necessary and benevolent Element, too. Without even thinking about it, we use our breath to blow out candles, sing songs of celebration, and whisper secrets. How often have you “stepped out for a breath of fresh air?; Used during meditation and to alleviate the pains of childbirth, the Element of Air is healing and vital.

The Wicca Book Of Days for February 17th – Kali, the Killer

The Wicca Book Of Days for February 17th

Kali, the Killer

It is generally said that Kali, “the Black One,” the Hindu Goddess of destruction and death, was born on February 17th, 3102 BC, and that her birth inaugurated the Kali Yuga (“Evil Age”) in which we are still living. As the shakti, or dynamic feminine energy, that emanates from Shiva, “The Destroyer.” Kali is envisaged with a black tongue and skin, and as having a ferocious temperament and an insatiable thirst for the blood that sustains her. She is typically depicted wearing a necklace of severed heads and wielding an arsenal of blood-drenched weapons in her many hands.

“Serpentine Shakti”

Shakti energy lies coiled and dormant at the base of the spine, but bliss can be attained after it has been awakened and has risen through all seven chakras to the crown of the head. If you long to experience the ecstasy of Shiva’s union with his shakti, either practice kundalini yoga tonight or sign up for classes!

The Wicca Book Of Days for February 16 – Raphael to the Rescue!

The Wicca Book of Days for February 16th

Raphael to the Rescue!

If you are ailing and feel that you could do with some angelic first aid, calling on Raphael would be especially efficacious, for the element of air corresponds to this Archangel, as it does to Aquarius, the zodiacal sign that rules this February day. Raphael, whose magick color is sky blue, is furthermore considered to be the Guardian of the East and the angelic entity that presides over Spring. Said to have miraculous powers of healing (the Apocrypha relates how he restored the blind Tobit’s sight with fish gall). Raphael is also regarded as a patron Saint of physicians, pharmacists, and apothecaries.

“A Bolt from the Blue”

If you have a set of Tarot cards, look hard at the major-arcana card of the Lightning-struck Tower (XVI) on this sixteenth day of February. You may increasingly gain the sense that spiritual illumination can shatter your defenses like a thunderbolt from the blue, or that turmoil is on the cards.

Points of Interests – Salem Witch Museum

Salem (MA) Witch Museum

Photo by Ron Cogswell

Words such as these struck terror into the hearts of Salem townspeople in the early spring of 1692 as hysterical young girls called out names.

By summer, 180 people had been accused and imprisoned – defenseless against accusations of witchcraft in a society driven by superstition and fear. The court, formed to try the victims, acted quickly. Bridget Bishop was tried on June 2 and hanged on June 10 thereby setting the precedent for a summer of executions.

The Salem Witch Museum brings you there, back to Salem 1692. Visitors are given a dramatic history lesson using stage sets with life-size figures, lighting and a narration – an overview of the Witch Trials of 1692.

Our new exhibit, Witches: Evolving Perceptions, examines the stereotypical witch, aspects of witchcraft in the 17th century, modern witchcraft and the phenomenon of witch hunts.

Question: Would you visit this Museum?

The Wicca Book of Days for Feb. 12 – Sunny Sowelu

The Wicca Book of Days for February 12th

Sunny Sowelu

Today marks the start of the runic half-month of Sowelu (which may also be spelled Sowilo or Sowulo, and is sometimes called Sigil), whose last day will fall on February 26. This rune represents the sun, which has been growing ever brighter since December’s winter solstice, and has been shining a little longer each day, too. Scholars of the runes generally link Sowelu with Baldur, the “Shining One,” or the “good God” of Norse myth, who was murdered through the trickery of Loki, Odin’s foster brother . Symbolically, Sowelu can be interpreted as denoting such positive, dynamic concepts as enlightenment, strength of will, soar energy and victory.

“Here Comes The Sun!”

If you have been feeling a little down turn to clary sage to lift your spirits. Either take it in the form of an herbal supplement or tea, or heat 5 to 10 drops of the aromatherapy oil in a vaporizer.

The Wicca Book of Days for February 11 – Our Lady Of Lourdes

The Wicca Book of Days for Saturday, February 11th

Our Lady of Lourdes

February 11 marks the date, in 1858, on which a young French girl, Bernadette Soubiroux (1844-79), first saw a vision of the Virgin Mary in the hollow of a rock in Lourdes. During her apparitions to Bernadette, “The Immaculate Conception” instructed her to drink from the spring that sprang forth, and to build a church near the grotto of Massabielle. Since then, millions have visited Lourdes and have drunk, or bathed in, its spring water in the hope of being cured of various ailments and diseases, and many miracles have indeed been reported. In 1907, Pope Pius X officially named February 1 the feast day of Our Lady of Lourdes.

 

The Water Of Life

Goddesses of every culture have always been linked with fresh water. Collect a jug of spring water to use in your rituals if you can, otherwise, pour some water into a bowl and then set it outside to absorb the moon’s rays.

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

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(*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.

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Witchcraft 101: Preparation

Preparation

I always prepare myself by dimming my lights about an hour before the working. I do tend to do most, but not all, magick at night. The extra drama of using darkness to augment my imaginative side is helpful.

After the lights are dimmed, candles are lit, and a few libations are poured, I tend to shower and have my stereo going with some good New Age or Pagan music to help my mind float into the right space.

Water, being a close kin to the Crab that I am, helps to soothe me, and the in the shower, I let earthly troubles wash away, leaving the pure part of my being to comtemplate the working to be.

After stepping out, I do tend to read a bit, look for spells in my library that might be appropriate, and then I write down the ones I like, or construct one of my own, usually on a clean piece of paper or parchment. I tend to either bury or burn these pieces of paper in the working, thus returning the spell to the earth, or to the fire.

In recent times, I’ve begun to think that perhaps I might also tear the paper to shreds to toss into the air, or to simply toss the spell into a body of water, thus balancing things with the traditional earth, air, fire, and water nature spirits.

Anyway, that is off the subject a bit… Back to preparations for the working.

Testing before casting

By the time all of this is done, my full attention is now forcefully and purely on making the spell work and on how to go forward… My mind is fully attuned to directing the energy, and by this time, I’ve set up my protection by doing some ritual cleansing of the home, testing my mindset to be sure I’m completely focused, and then to light 4 special candles that signify the four directions. On occasion, I have used tap-lights, and they do offer a special charm to circles!

Again, check yourself. I’ve often aborted a circle because I don’t feel right about the time, something is on my mind, and the worst of the worst, if I’m ill, I never, and I repeat, NEVER do magick when feeling ill or sick. It just never seems to go right if I am sick, and Magick takes energy. The worst thing I can think of is to deplete energy my body needs to fight illness and to leave myself truly in a fix. The Rede states “And it harm none” for a reason. It also stands to reason NOT to cause harm to yourself.

Last minute preparations I take are to lock the door, turn the ringer off on the phone, and to say a quick spell to banish interuptions. I can’t tell you how many circles I’ve been to at people’s houses where these simple things are forgotten and the ringing phone just kills the energy in a second! Someday, I’ll come up with a phone bansihment spell that will move all phones to another universe, but for now, disconnecting the beasts is a good alternative ;>)

So now you cast the circle!

So… you passed the tests and you feel great, your mind is clear, and you’ve got a real focus and you have the mind, body, and spirit all aligned!

A circle isn’t some two dimensional circle like the old dodgeball court line that we all know and love. Circles, in the magickal sense, are 360 degree circles of force that protect the occupants and help contain and focus the magickal energies to be exerted and directed from them.

I remember reading Lori Cabot’s wonderful books, and in one of them, she discusses a National Geographic article where she and her coven had a picture taken by a photographer, and the photo contained electrical discharge patterns in the picture that truly were interesting to see. The effect of the energy of the combined minds in the circle was such that it caused the camera to register these energies! So, my friends, this is the real deal. Circles exist, they create physical effects, and they are powerful tools when used properly.

Casting is often done in a clock-wise fashion. This honors the turning of the Earth herself and aligns our movements with the direction of the spin of the Earth. Living in the Northern hemisphere, we tend to forget that our good friends in the Southern hemisphere do things in a reverse fashion, and I do believe that those folks often use counter-clockwise casting to cast their circles in accordance with this same basic observation of energy flow.

I gave a lot of thought to this part of ritual and have concluded that the reason for it is that we become little vortexes of energy that harmonize with the flow of the earth, and this our workings carry forth in similar harmony. Going opposite to the flow creates distortions and probably gives poor results, but I’ve never tried that as an experiment. Perhaps someone can comment and enlighten us more.

Casting is simple. There are as many ways to cast a circle as there are stars in the sky. Some simply focus and then throw their energy/visualization into creating the sphere. Others lay out a circle in chalk, rope, corn meal, or whatever, and use that as the basis of the circle, and others yet just see the entire thing in their minds and walk in the appropriate direction to delineate the circle and mark the boundary.

An invocation, or reading to purify the space, is often done.

Use your mind to color the circle. I tend to use basic chakra colors to connect my own internal sensibilities to the extension of my space that is created by a circle. Use of blues and violets tend to dominate my circles, since I see these as electric and potent places, but others have described them as soft places with pinks and yellows to reflect peaceful settings. It just depends on the person(s).

After casting is done, invocations to invite the four directions or watchtowers of the four corners to join the circle. In my own mind, I see the four corners as inviting the spirits of the world to join us for the working. In doing so, you connect to the world, and to the universe at large.

Calling the quarters often involves the use of special calls, similar to the following:

“Spirit of Fire, Guardian of the Watchtower of the South, Keeper of the Sun and of Warmth, come to our Circle this night and grant us the will and energy to achieve our aims. So mote it be!”

Each quarter is called in similar format, sometimes by one person circling the quarter points, or by four people calling from their point of choice. Most good books on the Craft contain a wide-range of these calls, and often an experienced Witche’s BOS has your own custom calls written that help things along.

I have often wondered about adding a fifth tower, in the form of the sky above, since it does extend beyond the world, but I tend to just stick with the traditional model. Sometimes, things just work for you and it is good to just keep it simple!

Gathering the images and the storm…

All of this leads to one aim. We are now containing and bringing to bear the forces of the Earth herself, and are connecting our imaginations to these forces. Often, I meet other Witches who like to discuss these things, and they know a lot of the mechanics of the process, but have never contemplated the WHY of these actions.

The imagination, and most importantly, the subconcious parts of our minds, represents a powerful engine that can marshall these unseen connections in ways that are mysterious, but quite real and full of potent energy.The storm of the mind is gathered into a coiled and reactive manner when the circle is going strong, and all of this is driven by the final factor in the whole recipe…

This factor is excitement. We will discuss this in lesson four, along with the use of a patron God or Goddess to help with that excitement.

For now, use whatever means of gathering the excitement you can. Having calmed myself with my own practices, now I can direct the energy and my mind is usually going a mile a minute with good music helping things along. I do find music to be especially helpful, because images flow right from my deep subconcious and out through my fingertips as I perform the spell.

This is the point where I see circles often fail. The energy dies as someone stops to read from the parchment. It is as if we forget all the preparations and are just standing there like loons around a dead fish! The point of all of this is to gather the energy and take it the next step. Sometimes, I do think that the reason old Gerald Gardner did the naked rituals was to impart that excitement and to bring the novel sense of play into the circle so that these dead zones could be avoided and that the energy and forces would flow like a river. This is, of course, a controversial view, and I’d be happy to hear from others who might have views to share.

So, let’s say you are full of energy now. The circle is kicking ass with sparks, and you FEEL it! Now we are talking… This what is supposed to be happening. Not some dead mumblings and embarassed rummaging for a flashlight. The parchment should have been used only as a guide of study before, and now you are speaking from your heart. Your mind is full of images, and you feel almost as if in a play, or you feel above yourself.

The intent is guiding you, and you feel all around you. Other people, if present, are feeling it too. You see it in the eyes, in the spirit of their flashed looks. You move rythmically and forcefully. You are above and below yourself. The heart beats fast… the air sparkles, and gravity is gone, replaced by lightness.

Using the parchment, your mind whirls and you speak the part and words naturally and from the deepest parts of the soul. This is the point at which the container of the spell spills the energy into the vortex of the circle. You are releasing liquid energy into the universe, using intent and feeling as the currency of force, sprinkled with desire, and a dose of play mixed in.

Release

The energy is at a maximum point now. If you are in a group or solitary circle, it does not matter, you must push the energy out to the universe in a burst. This creates a psychic wave that overpowers the normal flow of events, and probably ruffles the dress of the Goddess and the hooves of the God, if done correctly.

Often, the spell is finished with a dance in the direction of the earth’s spin and the circle participants merge into a frenzied dance with a sudden release, often guided by the priestess, with a shout or forceful physical action to a point at the center and above the circle, thus casting the energy into the cosmos.

The way you know it worked is the feeling that happens after. It is like the satisfaction one has after great sex ;>) There is a *reason* the Goddess has such coy looks about her. But… being a male witch, I must admit to being ruled by certain thoughts …

Usually, I burn the parchment as an additional form of release, but often take it outside after closing the circle. It is a final seal of returning the container to it’s origins and to honor the Goddess and God one final time.

Closing

Often the closing is the most ignored aspect. In fact it is among the most important aspects of the working. You’ve tugged on the Goddess’s skirts, or the God’s kilt, invitied the Watchtowers in, and you have honored guests among you. You are obligated to thank them for their presence, and to pour libations or give offerrings to them in payment for their attendance.

I often use food to pay them, or to use heartfelt thanks to let them know how I feel about them in my heart. Often, a strange event, like a candle going out, or strange bump will occur, or an animal like an owl or bat will go sailing by if outside, and it does tend to make me laugh. Just never forget to thank the deities. They are the reason you do this.

Witchcraft 101: Directed Imagination

Directed imagination you ask? Yes, a Witch without imagination is like a car without gasoline. It takes imagination to make Magick! And this is the point of lesson three!

Let’s define imagination first:

This is the dictionary definition of imagination:

  • The formation of a mental image of something that is neither perceived as real nor present to the senses.
  • The mental image so formed.
  • The ability or tendency to form such images.
  • The ability to confront and deal with reality by using the creative power of the mind; resourcefulness: handled the problems with great imagination. A traditional or widely held belief or opinion.

Archaic definitions.

  • An unrealistic idea or notion; a fancy.
  • A plan or scheme.

AJ’s definition

Since I write these articles, creative license rules supreme! I define imagination as the power of the mind to concieve ideas and plans from the formless world and to give birth to these ideas in our world of form. The process by which imagination takes shape is mysterious and not well understood, but is dominated by the subconcious and is a potent and useful force for good and change in the world.

On to the lesson!

WitchCraft is the study of forces and movement of energy. In this third moon, we are looking at the means of Magick, what it takes inside of your inner being to bring it to the surface, and how to direct this energy.

As we mentioned in earlier lessons, spells are virtually powerless containers that only serve to contain the forces being directed by the Witch. A spell is like a beaker that brings life giving fluid to the lips of a parched throat. Without the container, the life-giving water cannot be delivered to the parched throat of the drinker, and without the water, the container is just another object in the universe, without true purpose or use, until intent and imagination combine to make the water and the beaker become more than the sum of their parts.

Thus, we find that Magick spells are exciting and actually fun because of the “water” aspect. Spells use the imagination of the Witch. Like water, imagination flows, it is deep, it contains mystery, and no one can quite say where it comes from, where it goes, or can truly contain it for very long.

Imagination can be channeled like water in a river. It can be focused, directed, and refined to laser-like intensity, cutting problems to shreds with it’s sheer force. Combined with the structure of the spell to direct it, the two components become Magick!

Lesson two saw you perform a spell, but I left out a key ingredient!

Before you performed the spell, I ask you this simple question; How did you prepare yourself emotionally, physically, and spiritually before you did the working?

Answer this honestly. You’ll need to go back in your mind, or look at your book of shadows to find out the answers to this question. When you feel you’ve reached that answer, spend time to record the answer to this question in your BOS.

I’ll use my own preparations for Magick as a potential guide to you. Mind you, many people do this differently, but after 14 years of Magickal practice, I tend to use a very tried and true procedure that evolved from my own workings and learning around very experienced teachers. All I know, is that it works for me, and if you see fit to alter it to your special circumstances, go for it. The trick is to use your own sensibilities and comfort levels as the guide to getting your mindset right!

 

IAmAWitch.com

Witchcraft 101: Magick and Intent

Instruction in WitchCraft varies from person to person, and individual to individual. I’ve yet to see any one path follow exactly the same course, so these lessons being presented here are simply a wide spot in the road, only guaranteed to clear a view to other vistas and help you on your way.

Lesson one covered the basics of what WitchCraft is and what it is not. In it, we covered the experiences and motivations of being a witch. However, I did not place a challenge before you like the one I plan to do here.

True, I asked you to consider the WHY of being a Witch, especially in your own case, but now I’m going to cover a section of the Craft that covers your personal power, and how you can use it for personal gain and to acknowledge the real and very potent forces that comprise Magick itself.

No… I am not going to discuss the art of casting spells with all manner of strange oils, brews, unusual objects, or even the occasional magickal object that is used to cast power. Instead, we are going to talk about the most powerful weapon in the Witch’s inventory.

This weapon beats out the entire lot of objects and forces that one associates with WitchCraft and Magick in general.

This force is INTENT.

Intent is the power of focusing on a desire, goal, or wish, with the express purpose of bringing that desire about. Intent plays to forces beyond and in the mundane that see to it that what you want, you will indeed get.

Mind you, this is no simple matter. The subject is fraught with difficulties and all manner of traps that can hang you up and cause all sorts of problems, should you misconstrue or mis-use the power.

Yes… this “intent” is power itself. With it, people have leveled civiliziations, and they have created art, gardens, and pleasant lives. It all depends on the motivation behind the person,.

Intent is expressed through NEED. Need is expressed through forceful emotion and powerful desires, and through these components of Magick, one can direct and influence events through the simple use of force of mind. True, magicakl props like wands, capes, and certain helpful herbs and materials do help things along, but the old saying that “The Witch IS the Magick” is quite true.

You are the Magick!

How does this principle work then?

After 14 years in the Craft, I really can only make a supposition, but mine is an informed supposition, because of my years in science and around scientists and very talented metaphysicians.

Our universe is a manifestation of quantum forces that are influenced by the fact that we are here to observe events. What this means is that without observers, for all intensive purposes, the universe might exist, but it’s purpose cannot be appreciated or find useful expression.

In scientific experiments, it has been found that the intent or concentration of a person on light beams (in a highly controlled and measured laboratory) affected the behavior of the beams. Strange effects like this prove that intent and thought itself have powerful and practically unlimited power to influence events.

Einstein called some of these forces “Spooky action at a distance”. He was referring to the behavior of photons of light that could never have communicated with one another, but somehow could affect each other in spite of huge distances and great efforts expended to prove that the experiments where wrong!

In real English, what I am telling you is that this universe of ours is one weird place, and that our minds and passions can exert influence over time, space, and matter.

Thus, Magick is the power of the mind to influence the course of events.

So much is made of visualization and projection of the mind in magickal rites, but little is said as to the underlying mechanisms that drive Magick. While my somewhat brief explanation does not clearly define the exact nature of the mechanism, it does make it clear that Magick IS indeed influencing physical systems, and that the mind itself has quantum properties that allow us the luxury of bending the universe to our needs, if one has sufficient intent and force of will.

Thus, we move into the area of ethics.

Yes, you can wish for and project for anything, but the question is tied to one nagging little issue; NEED.

Need is tied to what you really need in your heart of hearts, and what can legitimately be requested or asked for. It has little to do with the fact that I would love to materialize a broom with flying capabilities, like a Nimbus 2000.

Need is tied to things like deciding to get a degree and then projecting to the universe for help in getting there. I did so in my late bid in life to get my BSIT and lo and behold, my company suddenly volunteered to pay for the entire cost of my education.

Of course, I had done projection work, and my passion to change my life was a big part of this sudden desire to move the forces of the world to propel me in a new direction.

There is one little snag in all of this. And you who have known me well for many years on this web know that I sometimes disappear now and again. I can honestly say that my experience of Magick is that for every gain and change of direction, I have had to drop something else, in order to propel the ship of my life in that direction.

Thus, I dropped a lot of personal things to make the education happen. For me, Coven life and other key aspects of my world have had to take a back-seat to my development of my mind and growth.

To get something, you have to give. This is true in economics, and is sure as hell is true in Magick. If you hear someone telling you different, they haven’t cone to realize this great truth yet.

Again: To get something your heart desires, you MUST give up something else, in order to propel forward. What that something is cannot be easily stated, but you will need to carefully consider where it is you intend to sail your Magick, and what you are prepared to give to get there.

In my case, I gave up time and companionship for a short time, but the return has been well worth the short expenditure.

So… some of you are now realizing that Magick is really just transformation of time, energy, and intent. All of it guided to an end goal that is dictated by the principle of giving up or discharging something else.

Giving up something in your life, to get ahead is natural, positive, and even fun. All of us have areas of our lives that can stand for us to get rid of one area that holds us back. Using this gift of release, we can channel the benefits of this giving towards other goals, and in our personal Magick and power.

In smaller workings, where visualization is needed for a healing, or to alter the outcome of a dispute, or to wish for some windfall in your life, you can give of your time, or even of your heart, and thus you pay the toll for the Magick you exert.

 

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Witchcraft 101: First Moon

First Moon

This first assignment starts at the first full moon. You need to research the Craft… Read as many books and talk to as many of the more experienced practitioners as you can. Learn from these people.

Listen to them speak and trust your inner leadings and filters as you hear what they have to tell you. Some advice and information will resonate with you… some will not. This is part of the process, and just keeps you true to yourself… You are on a mission to learn who and what you really are!

Find one special person of the magickal variety with whom you can work, whose energy makes you comfortable, and who challenges your thinking as you progress in your understanding and growth. This person will be a mentor, friend, and teacher who will provide the benefit of experience and tolerance that should help you to advance. During this month, take time several hours a week or so to spend time in nature. It can be simple walks, or grand and glorious hikes into the outdoors. It can be fishing or camping, or just looking at plants in a park. Whatever you choose to do, just remain faithful in doing it.

Take a journal and record your thoughts and feelings as you connect with the universe around you… Keep those notes as part of your initial experiences… it is wise to be able to look back at what you were like, all those years later when you have been practicing, and it does bring a smile to see where you were and where you are now.

On the evening of the next full moon after you have spent all this time researching, talking, and spending time immersed in the Craft… Stop and ask yourself this simple question:

“Why do I want to be a Witch?”

This is a powerful question… Be honest with yourself, and then decide for yourself if you want to go on to the next stage of the process.

If you have been honest with yourself… your path, feelings, and direction will be clear. Trust your inner bell and guides… These serve as guideposts to help point the way.

I still do this in moments of trying times… I ask myself why I still am a Witch. To this day, it still rings true to my soul with a clarity that I am still amazed at… What is the reason? I am A Witch because I love the mystery and process of life, and because this spiritual system connects me, grounds me, and heals me like no other can. As a Witch, I feel complete and powerful in my own spirit and knowledge of who I am as a person.

You will come to your own definition of this in your first month of exploration. Each month, another question will surface for exploration and discussion.

Be sure to record those questions in your journal or book of shadows. At your initiation, you will want to read from each month, and discuss with your mentor or guiding teacher or witch what it is you have learned, and how best to apply it as you create your unique identity as a Witch.

 

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Witchcraft 101: Power of the Path

Power of the Path

Your having come to the Craft of the Wise is unique in that you have picked one of the hardest of spiritual paths to walk. It takes great courage and charisma to be a Witch. However, the rewards for this hardest of paths are equally great.

Why is Witchcraft hard? It is an imperfect, misunderstood, and highly individualistic religion that challenges your beliefs and actions at every moment of the day and night.

We live by principles and traditions that prevent us from doing magick to harm others, that acknowledge that for every action, there is an equal or greater reaction that visits like energy to the sender.

In other words… If you do good works, it is highly likely you will have good come to you. If it is for negative (save protecting yourself in a life or death situation), you probably risk bringing negative forces of all sorts to your step.

You will undoubtedly hear more of this as your learning advances… I am not here to rehash all of that… Plenty of material exists on the subject already.

To put this in a few sentences: My own take is that if good goes into something, good is going to come out… bad-in, well… bad will come out of it. This is a simple cause and effect rule. Just be aware that your actions and intent affect more than just your immediate surroundings in life and that the effects of your intent do come full circle.

Often, these effects come from unexpected directions and are the direct result of choices made earlier, even if the connection is not easy to see or makes sense to you.

Think of it like this: A pebble tossed in a pond makes waves (forces) that eventually cross the entire pond, bounce off the shoreline, and then return with effects that can be either helpful or disastrous. So too, are our workings and intents in life and in the Craft…

Speaking of forces… Most of Witchcraft is about living well… without all the Hollywood effects, drama of running around in robes or “looking like a witch” for some theatrical part.

Some of the most powerful witches I know do not even use the tools you are “supposed to” use. They construct their own simple ways of practicing, and use their minds to make magick and to bend forces and work *with* nature and natural energies to bring harmony and balance to the world.

These same Witches use magick to help themselves, and feel no shame in being here in the universe. They and we have every right to be here, and to choose the manner and means in which we acknowledge our creator and deity(s) of choice…

Organized religion holds no place for brave souls like this… indeed; they never fit in that system in the first place. So… in this first lesson, I hope I am dashing any sense of the continual drama and wishes for awesome effects at every moment… Witchcraft is work. It is the art of working on you. You also work on your relationship with the people, universe, and forces/powers to which we all have access.

This is not to say that there are not dramatic moments in the Craft. I have seen amazing events in my 13 years of being a Witch. I have seen winds blow through a house, extinguishing candles in a room that had closed windows and doors. I have seen trees raging and dancing. I have even been part of a circle where a ritual called for rain from a seemingly cloudless sky and within a few minutes, a downpour ensued.

The common thread to these events was that there was every reason for me to be at each of these events, and they were reminders that being a Witch does invite mysterious forces and entities to our lives, who are hopefully there to teach and guide us.

They are not there to entertain… Instead… these events provide a base for us to know that the unseen is there and that they work with and around us as we undertake our missions in life and as witches.

 

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Witchcraft 101: Introduction

Introduction

Women and Men, who come to the Craft from either a non-spiritual or other spiritual path, find themselves in front of the Goddess for a wide range of highly personal and life changing circumstances.

It is to these persons whom I am going to speak to in this first lesson, of which I will go over some basics.

Witchcraft (Or Wicca) is the study of forces and spiritual truths applied to daily life and observances of natural rhythms that ebb and flow in our lives. As you begin your practice, you will become much more attuned, aware, participate and work with the forces that touch and interplay with all of our lives…

Forces that many who live only in the material world are only dimly aware of, or which are ignored altogether.

Some will disagree with the characterization I give for the definitions, and these are as varied in number and content, as there are stars in the heavens.

This lesson does not intend to offer a scholarly interpretation of the myriad differences of definition of terms and opinions in the Craft. Instead, the intent is to show the initiate to the first of many doors. The explanation for the initiate that all is not as it seems, but there are large areas of agreement and truths that do tend to hold across the world of the Craft…

Just know that the Craft resides primarily in your heart. You will *know* you are attracted to the path, and if it is for you or not. If there is any one truth I have learned in my time doing this, it is this simple fact.

To thy own self, be true… If you are not being honest with yourself for the reasons you want to call yourself Witch, then you probably are in the wrong spiritual system…

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The Path Of The Water Witch

The Path Of The Water Witch 

Water Witches are sometimes called Sea Witches, but many of them find a calling with inland creeks, rivers, and lakes. It is rare for them to limit themselves to any one type of body of water. They generally align with all forms, including rain.

In most mythologies, human sprang from the Earth, but the gods themselves came from water. Egyptian theory states that the sun god Re was born from the primordial waters. Today, scientists can back that theory, NASA scientists theorize that water exists in heavy quantities in the universe. It works as a coolant. The water vapors in outer space for the condensing of clouds. Once a cloud condenses enough, it becomes a star.

Water reflects, the Water Witch does the same. If you yell at her, she will yell back at you. If you are kind to her well, she will be kind and treat you well in return. She is very fair. She shares many qualities with her sister Earth Witch, as the Earth is 90 percent water. Among those qualities is the core belief of taking complete responsibility for her actions. The Water Witch accepts that every move she makes can cause ripples across the surface of the water and moves accordingly.

Water is considered a feminine force, and the Water Witch may prefer an alliance with the Goddess, all the while recognizing and maintaining that the God is within the Goddess. She cans sometimes relate closely to Dianic Witches in this preference.

The Water Witch can see things that those on other paths cannot. In fact, the human sense of sight belongs in her realm. Just as the seas teem with life that we have yet to discover and understand, the Water Witch know s that there is much more to our world than what is within our eyesight! While she can be highly superstitious, for the most part she simply knows that there is more just waiting to be discovered, as well as some things that humanity has known about and forgotten over the ages. The old phrase “out of the blue” speaks volumes about the ability of the Water Witch to tune in to her intuition. She is often very gifted in divination practices. Tarot is usually her divinatory tool of choice, but she also has a talent for dowsing.

The Water Witch sees little that she considers an obstacle. She understands that her fate is in her hands, and if she cannot flow through something, she will flow around it. Once her mind is made up, very little can stop her from obtaining what she wants. Because water exists in three forms on Earth, The Water Witch can be considered a formidable force. She will not admit to any weaknesses.

The Water Witch has a close link to the feminine side of nature. She understands reproduction and is akin to her sister Earth Witch in this manner as well. Menstruation falls in the realm of the Water Witch. Because of this, she is instrumental in moon-lodge practices and coming-of-age rites. Her sister Earth Witch may focus more on the rebirth cycle, while the Water Witch is more in touch with creation.

The Water Witch specializes in healing, cleansing, beauty, emotions, intuition and energy. Her magickal style is usually based on instinct. If the feeling hits her to perform a cleansing, she will. She does not necessarily worry about correspondences and timing. Her timing is completely her own–she will not be rushed by others into decisions or action. Schooled in water magick, ice magick and snow magick, the Water Witch can tell you all about the role of water in the metaphysical and physical realms.

Winter is the season when the Water Witch’s power is at its peak. She holds within herself the ability to transform fluidity to solid form during the winter, the same way that water turns to ice. It is during this season that the Water Witch should turn her view inward and evaluate her goals. She often redefines herself through the process. Because of this, a Water Witch grows stronger every year. She understands that just as dry ice is sticky, it is her role to hold thing together.

Throughout the winter months, the Water Witch is abnormally busy, even for her active lifestyle. Because she is at her highest power and incarnated in all three of her forms during these months, she may be short of temper. When you add to that the fact that artificial heat (fire, an evaporating influence on water) is usually pumped into the home during this time and families tend to be cooped up in the same space, you may have one cranky, stressed-out Water Witch on your hands. She longs for room to spread out and flow. A simple snowfall can ease her mind and soothe her spirit; she draws strength from it. If that is not an option, a long bath or a cup of hot tea usually helps. Rest assured that if you visit her in the winter months, she will be a very gracious hostess, regardless of the timing. The Water Witch is known for her generous hospitality.

Her home décor is usually unthemed, with whimsy being the main rule. The Water Witch may have a quirky collection of glass objects, prisms (she tends to like sparkly things), tons of throw pillows and an aquarium. Cool blues and greens are often primary colors in both her wardrobe and her home.

Due to her busy lifestyle, the Water Witch frequently has to let the housework slide somewhat. Although she prefers all things to be clean, she also understands that there must be “salt in the sea.” In other words, a small amount of dirt is inevitable, and she is able to live with that comfortably. She absolutely cannot stand clutter, though. It drives her to distraction.

Another common trait of the Water Witch is a quirky sense of humor. It simply cannot be defined. Some of the things she says seem to come from outer space in their relation to the topic, yet they can make you laugh as nothing else will. This is intentional–the Water Witch is lighthearted. But just when you begin to think she has never had a deep thought in her life, she will prove you wrong. When it comes to serious conversation, the Water Witch can often put her finger on an aspect of the situation that the other Elemental Witches do not see. The Water Witch is very wise.

Like her mythical brethren the mermaids and water nymphs, the Water Wise tends to love long hair. She may keep it pulled back in a ponytail due to a lack of time, but she lets it grow nonetheless. The effects that water has on the body are directly in line with the metaphysical attributes of the Water Witch. Usually beautiful, she is often younger looking in appearance than in age and has a long memory and attention span and bright, shining eyes.

Because the Water Witch always considers every side of an argument before making up her mind, she may be slow to assume a position. Rest assured that when a Water Witch states her opinion., it has been well thought out. She open-minded and fair. Her strength lies in her dual nature an a ability to see the points or view of others. And like water, she will find her way into all of the small nooks and crannies of a situation. She may initially choose an answer based on instinct but if new facts come to light, she will often change her mind. She is flexible.

Those on the water path often find a calling in helping others. They make wonderful therapists, psychiatrists, obstetricians, pediatricians or service personnel. Often people are attracted to their soothing nature and come to them for advice. Like a waterbed, a reflecting pool , or a relaxing bath, Water Witches project an aura of serenity and comfort.

The Water Witch may be seen as moody, but like the sea herself, she is often in motion. She rarely slows down She is full of energy and always on the go. And like the sea, her moods swing with the tides. The moon holds sway over the tides, and one can easily draw a parallel between the moon and the Water Witch’s emotional patterns.

Edible Earth Magick – Corn Woman’s Magickal Mush

Corn Woman’s Magickal Mush

 
1 cup corn meal
1 cup cold water
1 teaspoon salt
3 cups boiling water
 
Combine the corn meal, cold water, and salt. Pour the mixture into the boiling water. Cover and cook on low for 15 minutes, stirring when needed. This mush turns solid when cold. It may then be sliced into blocks about 1/2-inch thich and fried in hot oil. Serve with honey on the side, if desired. You may also dust the slices with a mixture of cinnamon and powdered sugar.

Edible Earth Magick – An Earth Witch’s Stone Soup

An Earth Witch’s Stone Soup 

 
Stone Soup, the popular children’s tale of three soliders who teach a village how to make soup, is a favorite among Earth Witches, who often add stones to their meal preparation because of the magickal energies they impart. Simple, quick and magickal, this legendary soup is sure to please.
 
3 large quartz crystals, scrubbed perfectly clean and empowered to purpose
1 large pot boiling water
Salt and Pepper to taste
Carrots, sliced
Cabbage, torn
5 beef bouillon cubes
1 can tomato juice
Potatoes, cubed
Celery, sliced
Bell peppers, cubed
 
Combine all the ingredients and simmer until the vegetables are tender. You may add or subtract any vegetables you wish and season to taste. This soup also has the advantage of being high in fiber and low in calories, so it works well for dieting purposes. Remember to stir the blessings into the food by stirring in a deosil motion only. Remove the crystals before serving.

Protection Powder (Earth Magick)

Protection Powder

(Earth Magick)

  

Basil

Salt

Garlic

1 piece of white chalk

Grind like amounts of all the ingredients together with a mortar and pestle in clockwise pattern. Continue until the mixture is a fine powder. Open your third eye, and see the powder turn a glowing light purple. Bless it and empower it by saying, “Mother blesses my home with protection and safety. All here stay healthy, happy and whole. As I speak it, so mote it be!”

You may go a step further and charge the powder under a full moon, if you’d like but it is fine to use it right away. Walk around your house clockwise three times while sprinkling it onto the ground. Now your home is protected.