SUMMER’S PATH” BY SCOTT BLUM
“SUMMER’S PATH” BY SCOTT BLUM IS #1 NEW AGE BOOK IN THE COUNTRY
Blum’s second book in his series of metaphysical novels is an international best-seller after a few short hours
APRIL 7, 2010 - The first printed edition of Summer’s Path (Hay House) by DailyOM co-founder Scott Blum shot to #1 of the New Age book charts after only a few hours of being officially released on April 6, 2010. As of Wednesday morning, the book remained at the top of the New Age charts in the USA and was #3 in Canada as measured by Amazon.com book sales. In addition, the book reached #26 of all books sold in the USA and #119 in Canada.
Summer’s Path presents the remarkable story of Don Newport, an engineer who comes face-to-face with his personal destiny under extraordinary circumstances. After losing his job and his health insurance, Don learns that he has a terminal disease, with only a few months left to live. On his deathbed, he meets Robert, a brazen angel of death who promises to help him with a graceful exit. As Don prepares to say his last goodbyes to his loving wife, Robert attempts to change Don’s perspective about his mortality and proposes an exceptionally unique option.
Robert leads Don through an astounding meditation of life and death and reveals various healing and spiritual concepts, including walk-ins, embodiment, and soul destiny. On this magical journey of self-realization, Don discovers that it’s never too late to learn profound life lessons about ourselves and our loved ones.
Click here for Summer’s Path
Summer’s Path is the prequel to the best-selling book Waiting for Autumn. Summer’s Path was originally issued as a limited edition e-book that topped Amazon’s Kindle charts of all electronic books and made several best of lists. The new hardcover edition of Summer’s Path is now an international best-seller.
Summer’s Path is available from scottblum.net, Hay House, and book stores and distributors across the country. For media copies or interview requests please contact Sonia Robson at 541.488.0508 x4 or email publicity@dailyom.com
About the Author
Scott Blum is the best-selling author of Waiting for Autumn and the co-founder of the popular inspirational website DailyOM. He is also a successful multimedia artist who has collaborated with several popular authors, musicians, and visual artists and has produced many critically acclaimed works, including a series featuring ancient meditation music from around the world. Scott lives in the mountains of Ashland, Oregon, with Madisyn Taylor–his wife, business partner, and soul mate.
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Here is what others have to say about Summer’s Path:
“On this transformational journey, Blum shares profound life lessons on how to overcome adversity when life deals you the most unfortunate of hands. This healing book is an insightful gift of hope and wisdom for anyone who finds themselves in difficult situations. A must-read."- Debbie Ford, the author of 21 Day Consciousness Cleanse and co-author of The Shadow Effect
“Summer’s Path is an inspiring story of discovery and wonder by Scott Blum, the path-forging co-founder of DailyOM. This lovely book is a life-and-death exploration of the great Mysteries that leads us straight to the heart.” - Judith Orloff, Author of Emotional Freedom
“Once in a while a story is written that touches the heart, the soul, and the mind with depth and resonance. Themes of birth, death, grief, surrender, redemption, acceptance, and love are among the many woven throughout the tapestry of this timely story by author Scott Blum. Give yourself a gift to awaken your heart and read this inspiring book.” - Colette Baron-Reid, Author of Messages from Spirit
Lady Day: March 20th
Lady Day or commonly known as Ostara and Eostre is this March 20th. Ostara is the Sabbat festival of the Vernal or Spring Equinox, the First day of Spring.
Celebrated by other religious cultures as Easter, on Sunday, April 12th.
This is the time when the light and dark are in balance. Yet the light is over taking the dark. The light is gaining strength and power. This is the time to celebrate the balance of all things. Balance from light to dark, life and death, female and male, not to mention the balance that comes from within you. Spring brings new birth. The new birth of the awakening of the plants, trees, animals and even the human population. After the darkness of winter it is a time of rejoicing and celebration of the fresh new light that is upon us.
A Special Day Event
What to do on this special day? Take a walk in a field full of flowers, or if this is not possible, walk in your own gardens. If you are an urban dweller, look upon your plants that you have. Let your mind wander and try to connect with your plants. If you are lucky enough to have a near by field, or garden, pick some flowers. Ask the plants permission first waiting for a sign of permission, then thank the plant for allowing you to pluck it from the earth that has nurtured it. See if you can find any mystical or magical meaning behind your pickings. Meditate on them and see what comes to you. You will be surprised at what you may learn, not only about yourself but the plant and why you chose it. Or it chose you.
This is something of importance. This is a ritual that may be accomplished in the solitude within yourself. A private time of ritual and celebration that may continue in practice for years to come. A time to appreciate the new growth and season. To gain balance of harmony in nature.
Let us not forget that this is a time of planting. Plant some seeds in a pot to grow inside to brighten your home. Plant in your garden. Give back to nature as it has given to you. As you are tending to your planting, you will find that you are becoming at peace with yourself. It is a relaxing time. Let your mind wander, letting thoughts flow to you. Feel the regeneration of your inner being happen. Thank the Gods and Goddesses for this time. For they are watching and smiling upon you. Watching you painstakingly give new seeds that chance to be born to brighten our world.
Here are some useful information to use as reference in your workings
Colors
Green, Yellow, Pink and all pastels.
Symbols
Eggs, New Moon, Butterflies
Deities
Youthful and Virgile God and Goddess
Stones
Aquamarine, Rose Quartz, Moonstone
Ritual Oils
Lotus, Ginger & Magnolia
Food
During this special day you may wish to eat the foods that are related try a mixture of seeds, like sunflower, pumpkin, sesame seeds and pine nuts. Salads and food items like sprouts are another appropriate food to add to your menu as they are green and leafy vegetables.
Chasing Ghosts
When you think of ghosts and things that go bump in the night, the first thought that comes to mind are the spirits that remain behind when their body has passed away. But there are other ghosts that we might find residing under our roofs that might be as terrifying.
Those ghosts, so to speak, are the experiences of past and present that are haunting us. The sorrow, happiness, anxieties and other emotions are all combined in one or maybe more of these spirits that haunt us. Ghostly apparitions that are seen in the twilight hours in the rooms of our minds.
Our first instinct is to hide under the covers, as we all know that ghosts can not see us there. A perfect hiding place. Hoping that when we feel brave enough to peer out from underneath those covers the apparition will have faded away. By turning on the lights this may help temper our fear of what we have seen yet this is only a temporary safety net as these ghostly sights will return.
Our thoughts are scattered, wondering where these spirits from the otherside came from. Asking our selves the why are they here or what do they want questions. Not being able to readily figure it out or is it that we are not ready to face the answers?
Shielding and putting up protective layers of golden light to prohibit harm and entry in our sacred space finding that this only comforts for a while as there the apparition stands again. Maybe a little more frightening than before. To approach the apparition we must logically plan our strategy which leads us back to the why, what and where questions that we did not take the time to answer.
This ghostly presence is not a spiritual being at all. It is our own personal ghost of all our emotional experiences that have come to haunt us. Experiences or emotions that we have not accepted nor faced. Pushing them deeper into the recesses of our minds. Escaping for a limited time by forgetting. But our minds do not forget, they hide them away for a rainy day when it is felt we are ready or need to face whatever has been put away.
Why the sudden paranormal upset? There are times we have these visits when it is time to face them. Experiencing the emotions that we have pushed aside at the time by not being able to fully face them and let go. Much like the saying, Out of sight, out of mind,
It is now time to do face our fears or doubts and learn from these events.
While we are on on travels towards enlightenment it is in our best interest to inter react with this ghost, seeking the truth of the answers that we have asked of it. Facing the emotions that we are now ready to face. We know ask what it is and how we can help.
Listening carefully to the wise spirit visitor you may not like what it has to say or show you. The tendency to hide again may pop up. Do not let fear be your guide, take the fear into your hands and dissolve it like water rinsing away the lather on your hands. Moving through the experience, knowing that it has already happened and can not hurt you as before. Yes, there may be residual pain yet facing it now will help you to let go.
While we are looking at the event that has created this ghost we are actually learning. Learning a lesson that we did not see the first time around. No matter the inner turmoil if we clearly rationalize this experience we are able to release the emotions attached and let go. Moving on to a lighter, better place on the inside.
Not all ghosts are easy to banish. Professionals are there to help you and their services should in fact be utilized for the experiences that are so very traumatic. With their help and guidance they will help you to banish these ghosts.
Once you have faced whatever has been shown to you know that you have conquered a mountain and ready for the next climb. Coming away a stronger individual.
Looking at the apparition you will notice that it is suddenly fading away, going to the other side where it belonged in the first place. No longer haunting you. Finding that you are no longer consumed by fear only filled with the feeling that you are well on your way to another step on your path to enlightenment.
We have moved one small step towards our final path. It is not easy chasing the ghosts in our minds houses away. Banishing them to free us is a task that may take a long time of self seeking but the end result is worth it.
Hiding under our covers in the dark will only continually feed the ghosts energy to haunt us further. Facing these ghosts returns the power and energy back to us. Empowering us to fulfill our destiny.
Throw those covers off you, remembering this when the temptation to cover yourself again comes over you-
Ghosts know where you are hiding.
Chakra Ear Cuff: Product Review
Product to be reviewed: The Chakra Ear Cuffs
Company: Soul Possessions, LLC
Designer: Scott Kovarik
Cost: 19.95 plus shipping
Mystic Witch was presented with the opportunity to review what we think is going to be one of the hottest Chakra tools on the market.
One of the reasons that we feel this way is that it is small, easy to use and does appear to have energy qualities that is different yet slightly the same with individuals.
In order to ensure that this review was balanced we had three individuals participate in the wearing of the ear cuffs. Since we wanted to make sure of the balance we chose two individuals that were non partial as this would give an honest review. One was a female and the other was a male. We have read review statements from women but truthfully I have not seen any male other than the maker of the cuff. Now, there might be some I just did not see any.
The female tester was pleased with the way in which the cuffs were designed. She liked the mixture of the copper and stone placement. Also that it was bendable with little pressure to fit to her ear. The male on the other hand did not care for the design. He felt it was to feminine for his comfort but since meditations were done in the privacy of his home and office he would still wear the cuffs. He did like the fit as being a male he felt his ears were larger and harder to fit than the female gender.
Both were in agreement that the general design was well thought out and workable. Light weight and easy to use.
Testing Begins
We put a time for each to wear the ear cuffs for one week (7 days) while doing their meditations. The results were different yet had very similar results.
Tester 1: Female
The female had a hard time with day 1. Stating that at first her focus was off due to getting used to having something behind her ears. She went on to say that after wearing them the first 35 minutes she didn’t really feel anything at all. Her mediation was a flop. The meditation was flawed due to her not being able to not focus on something different. Nothing uncommon so we took this into consideration with our overall feelings on the cuffs.
Meditations
Days 2-5: Tester stated that the heat from the copper that was generating sent an energy like shock that she stated came out of no where. Most of the shocks that she felt started 10 minutes into her meditation. It was in no way painful. It was a different type of energy flowing that she said was much newer in her regular meditations. Each day the energy seemed to intensify. After taking the cuffs off from Day 3 - 7 she felt slightly more energized.
Days 6-7: Tester said Day 6 was much more intense. But Day 7 she had an experience with the cuffs and her mediation that she had not ever had. At this time, even tough we were told what happened the tester asked us not to print what happened. Maybe at a later date this will be revealed.
Tester 2: Male Tester
After the design issue was hashed out we finally had him use the cuffs. The male tester, like we stated did not like the design due to the feminine appeal. He did like the man made gemstones that were placed on the cuffs. Since he works with crystals and gemstones in his daily rituals and meditations he found that usable and unique. The copper he liked also as he strongly believes in healing properties in copper metals. His meditations are a little different than the females. His are longer and not each day. So instead of wearing every day he wore them 3 times in the seven days for an hour and half each time. Then he wore them the other four while doing work in his home to see what they would do wearing on an every day basis.
Meditations & Daily Use
Tester 2 teaches meditation so his practice is a lot different than Tester 1. He mediates three times a week, an hour an a half each time. Stating that on Day 1 he had no problem compensating with the ear cuffs in place. He said that due to the light weight nature they were no where near distracting and he forgot he had them on. Adjustment was easy for him and away he went.
Days 2-5: Tester stated that heat from the copper was comforting. In fact he said that it helped him to achieve a higher plane faster as he allowed the energy to flow where it was going naturally. He did also state that there was a shock like factor that at first startled him but it did not hurt in the least. His meditations were normal in many ways. He thought that he felt the effects more afterwards. Especially after day four moving into day five through seven.
Days 6-7: The energy level that he felt was different during this time as more intense. Not unpleasant just more intense. He directed the flow during the last two days to where he wished the energy to go. He felt that certain chakras needed more energy thus he moved it into those Chakras. His overall on day 7 was nothing out of the ordinary. Just the overall sense in more inner energy that he could in fact pull up and push where he wanted.
During his use on the other days while working he stated that he felt a little energy flow but nothing more than usually he feels. He did state that after not wearing the ear cuffs that the energy lasted for a minimum of 8 hours. He could differentiate between his normal energy pulled up and the cuff energy. He wanted that to be made clear.
Tester Number 3: Female
I wanted at least one other person to test the product. I was that person. I used the cuffs during mediations for 4 days only. Instead of perfect quiet as my two proceeding testers did I used music that I usually use during my personal and guided meditations. I wanted to see if my results using music would be any different.
Things did not start off very well with me. Two of the gemstones fell off. Now the funny thing is the stones that fell off were the same two stones on each cuff in the same spot. That’s right. Same stone, same place each cuff. A sign of some kind? Still figuring that one out.
I had to go along with the other two testers. The heat from the copper was soothing. Mine went from hot to cold to warm off and on all during the meditations. Whether this is normal or not I am unsure. This did not happen with the other two.
Meditations
The design was not distracting to me either. They are light weight and did not distract me in the least. My mediations went smooth on the first three days. On the fourth and final day I used a slightly different method, still using the music, than I had used in the previous days. I found that the newer method intensified the energy that I could feel coming from the cuffs, flowing through the ears down my throat into the rest of my body. It was different I will tell you that much. As far as extra energy I think that a person should wear them longer than what I and the others did as seven days seemed to produce longer and more lasting energy staying power making the person feel lighter and more energized with the prolonged usage.
Overall it was decided that the weight balance was perfectly achieved along with the use of gemstones. The copper is a great energy inducer in other forms of jewelry so using as ear cuffs was a well thought out design. Of course, from a male perspective something a little more masculine would be appreciated.
In compiling the information that was obtained from the three testers we devised a simple rating system to finalize our review of the product.
Ratings from 1 - 10. 10 being the best and 1 the lowest
Design: 9
Weight: 10
Comfort: 9
Usability: 10
Product Construction: 9
Effectiveness: 10
Purchase: 10
Cost: 9
With so many products on the market this is one of the few that Mystic Witch would in fact stand behind and endorse. We have many items and products come our way. Finding so many flaws that we do not review as we do not wish to associate the product with our company. Not so with the Chakra Ear Cuffs.
Please note that results can and will be different for each individual that uses the Chakra Ear Cuffs. No two individuals will be exact. Similarities are expected and will occur.
A Call To All Wiccan, Pagans & Others
Do you have a blog that you would like to share and gain exposure with? Do you have a blog that is filled with wonderful hints, tips and articles but you feel that nobody is seeing what you are writing?
Wiccan Network is gathering blogs and blog authors to advertise and list their blogs on this upcoming site.
How much is this service? Free. We will be hosting the entire website promoting your blog and websites also.
Wiccan Network will allow bloggers and web owners to list their sites for other like minds to read, bookmark and link with. The more exposure and linking the more chances of page rankings going up.
Why are we doing this? For one reason there are so many blogs out there but a lot are not found. Networking these blogs will bring our community closer together as a way to learn, gain friendship and have a feeling of a real community.
The Wiccan Network is NOT limited to only Wiccans. Pagans, Neo-Pagans and all other beliefs should feel free to list and become active.
We will be promoting the site within this month. The site is being designed as we are speaking here. This is why we are posting this release. The more bloggers the better!
We would also like to have input and ideas on this venture from you the blogger.
For more information please feel free to contact us.
Getting bloggers together is only the first step of the Wiccan Network. Help to make this a striving safe haven for our brothers and sisters
Contact ravenfyre@mysticwitch.com
The Witches of Dixie: Book Review
Book Title: The Witches of Dixie
Book 1 of The Witchery Series
Author: Laura Stamps
ISBN #: 9780979841309
Cost: $12.95
Site: To Buy Book
Rating: 10
Upon receiving this book to read I must admit I had my worries. I am not one to be very interested in this type of material. Yet, I am an avid follower of Ms Stamps so I was more than happy to sit and read with an open mind.
I picked up the book, settled in for a read and three hours later I was finished. I had lost all track of time and was totally captivated by the characters and the plot of the book. Shaking my head in disbelief I had to laugh. The characters were alive, feeling as if they were actually a part of my inner circle. Feeling that their lives at times were parallel to mine in certain ways. The ups and downs and the way in which their passion for their deities in aiding them on their path of life.
Showing the reader with a deep devotion and perseverance, any obstacle in our lives may be over come. Each character, so very different yet alike carries the reader through a tip in their lives. Feeling as though you are walking side by side with them. Feeling their sadness, laughter and passion for what they believe in.
This is not just another fictional book. This is a book that actually makes you think and feel. Each character may resemble something of the person that is reading this book. My favorite character of the Witches of Dixie is Mirabella. Although I thoroughly enjoyed each other character of Ravena, Maylene and Savannah, Mirabella was one I could identify with the most.
Laura Stamps has created a refreshing series. With her way of mixing the real life situations with the magickal workings it shows clearly her devotion to her path, characters and readers.
The only bad part that I can tell you is that the book ended. Leaving the reader wanting more!
Mayan Days of Sound CD
CD Title: Mayan Days of Sound
By: Craig Howell
Site: Mayan Days of Sound Site
Rating: 10
Venue: Mayan
A complete review on the Mayan Days of Sound CD. An exceptional musical adventure as you use this as a meditational tool. Filled with the soft sounds of flutes, drums and other instruments.
I ran across this CD totally by accident. It peaked my interest as I use the Mayan deities in so many of my path workings. I saved this CD to review until my Mayan cards called upon me to use them in a personal reading. Once the call came was when I listened to this amazing tool.
The music is astounding. Using this as a tool with my cards and meditation I was impressed at how well that they all flowed together. It was as if this music was the missing piece from my meditation and cards. No, the cards I use are not tarot. I wanted to make that point right out front.
I did my complete path working using this musical CD. I will in fact use again and again. You might be asking yourself why I refer to this as a tool over and over again. This is not a simple, every day new age musical CD. This is something that you would use as tool to increase your personal experience as you are meditating or using another technique of path working. The music expanded the experience thus to me it should be included as a tool in your magical travels.
The sounds of the music are created with harmonics, a variation of frequency and tone within the same note. It is said it has a potential healing effect. I will say that this music, especially certain tracks, relaxed and helped with my experience.
The creator of this CD, Craig Howell has been creating music for years. He is a writer and an astrologer.
Creating the tracks, taking a day for each for a total of twenty days to complete. There are 20 tracks. Such as:
Imix
IK
Caban
Ben
and others. You would really have to know what each represents to know the names. Since I am studying the Mayan path this was like it was custom made for me.
No, you do not have to walk this path to enjoy. I would strongly urge you to listen to his Mayan Days of Sound and judge for yourself.
This is one of the most mystical sounds I have heard in years.
Little Witch and Her First Lesson
Written By Editor Mistress Ravenfyre
“Children! Children! Come here now and settle in". said Grandma Witch
“That’s right. Everyone find a place and get comfy.” Grandmother Witch looked at the smiling faces waiting to hear her tale of Little Witch. The children came every day to hear what the Littlest witch did and learned. It was as though they were all transformed into Little Witch, learning and feeling what she did. Grandmother Witch knew this and loved seeing the lessons be learned by the young. It was important for their learning experience. Telling about Little Witch was a pleasure for Grandmother Witch. And so the learning circle was now open and she began.
“Let me see. I think today we shall hear about one of Little Witches travels in her many lessons she learned while young". “Oh we love Little Witch sang out the children. “Yes, of course you do", smiled Grandmother Witch. “Are we ready to begin? she asked with a wink. “YES!” yelled the children.
Then let us begin.
When Little Witch was just a very small child, maybe five or six she began her lessons. Little Witch was so excited to begin as now she felt like a Big Witch in going to the school house to be seen by a teacher. She could barely wait for her first lesson to start. Today was the big day! Oh how happy Little Witch was. She had had many lessons but mainly they were in the care and training of Master Frog. Feeling him wiggle and waggle in her hands made her giggle with delight. He was a handful!. She shared many a laugh with Master Frog. He of course would only stare at her and ribbit.
Today though the lesson plan changed. Her teacher, Gwenneth was holding Master Frog as Little Witch entered the classroom. “Little Witch, you are late. Please be seated". Teacher Gwenneth said to her. Little Witch took her seat and looked at both teacher and frog. She could feel something but what it was she did not know.
“Today my child you will be taking your lesson out of the classroom and into the outside. Take Master Frog and take good care of him for he shall help you with your lesson.”
“But what is my lesson I am supposed to learn?” asked Little Witch. “Little Witch, it is time that you learned that lessons are not always learned from books and by teachers but by experiencing them. It is time you did just that".
“I do not understand” said Little Witch. Little Witch thought it was so silly not to be in the classroom but this was her assignment.
“Little Witch, when you have learned the lesson answer you will know”
“How will I know the answer?” exclaimed Little Witch.
“You will know, my dear Little Witch. You will know” said Teacher Gwenneth. “Now it is time to begin” and with that being said she opened the school doors and gave Little Witch a gently push out. “Little Witch, listen and hear” Before Little Witch could open her mouth to say anything the teacher closed the door.
“Well, Master Frog, I am in a pickle. I have no idea what I am supposed to learn or do. Do you?” asked Little Witch to Master Frog. Master Frog only blinked. “Humph, you arent much help, now are you?” Littel Witch said putting him in her pocket.
Might as well start she thought. And she did
Out into the grounds she went. Not really knowing what it was she was supposed to learn was confusing and hard. Especially for a little witch of 5 or 6 years old. She knew that could do the lesson if only she knew what it was. Skipping and singing down the path she saw in the distance some older students. “What are they doing? she said to herself for Master Frog had decided to take a nap. Since it was a warm sunny day and the breeze was scenting the air with the flowers from the garden it was an outdoor lesson day for all students, young and older.
Little Witch ventured closer to the group. The older students were all in a circle standing. She could not quite make out what they were saying as she was still to far away. Once she got closer she said to them “What are you doing?” At first there was no answer so she waited thinking that maybe she was not close enough t them hear. “What are you doing!” this time she yelled at them.
One if the students turned to look at Little Witch and said “Little Witch how rude you are to yell at us while we are studying” “You arent studying” You are only standing there in a circle looking like tree stumps” she laughed and pointed at all of them. Tilly, one of the students turned at Little Witch. Seeing that there was no smile on her face worried Little Witch as she did not know what she did wrong. “Little Witch, that was not nice to say to us. Now go away you are disturbing us” Tilly spoke to her firmly. “NO not until you tell me what silly things you are doing” Little Witch said
“If you must know nosey rosey we are practicing creating a circle. Now, will you go?” Tilly replied.
Little Witch had heard of this but since she was still young really did not know thetrue meaning . Instead of asking she snapped “I know it is a circle and I am not a nosey rosey you mean stump people”
“IF you knew why did you ask? asked Tilly. Then the circle of students began to giggle and laugh. “Haha look!” pointed one of the students “She has a toad as a pet! ” They all laughed even louder now. “He is not a toad, he is Master Frog and he is not my pet but a lesson I carry with me” Little Witch fighting back her tears. She didnt like being called names and being laughed at.
“A toad as a lesson! How funny!” Tilly rang out over the crowd."Is your lesson not to get warts?” another student giggling said. The students laughed and laughed.
Little Witch nearly started to cry but then out of the circle came Correna. Correna was the oldest and one of the few being trained and taught to be a Priestess when she came of age. She was a vision of beauty. Little Witch saw this beauty and stopped the tears. Coreena came closer, taking Little Witches chin into her hand she said “Little Witch you must be kind and patient” “She looked back at the students that were now silent. “As well as you all should be the same. Kind and gentle with your thoughts and words”
“Now, Little Witch you must go to finish learning your lesson and let us get back to ours” “Bbbut I dont know what my lesson is” Little Witch cried in dismay. Correnna smiled “You will Little Witch. You are half way there".
Little Witch braved a small smile and turned to leave. Instead of walking she ran as fast as her little legs would take her. She wanted to get as far away from the circle students as possible. “Well Master Frog that was just terrible. They were mean and hateful laughing at me” I didnt do anything at all. I will never like them again”
Little witch began slowing up a little and soon it was as though what had just happened was like a dream.
Master Frog only blinked his big eyes at her. Uttering not a sound
Little Witch still had no idea what her lesson was to be learned that day. She saw many things on her travels but didnt learn anything. “Maybe that is the lesson! Not to learn anything” she thought. But she kept going. Talking to Master Frog who really just wanted to sleep and feel the warm sunshine on his back. He didnt complain to her only quietly blinking.
It wasnt much longer until Little Witch came upon another group of students. These studetns were not standing like the stump people she had nick named, no they were all sitting cross legged in the grassy meadow with eyes closed.
Little Witch could not help herself she laughed so loudly that all the students opened their eyes and stared at her. Little Witch felt a little uncomfortable and kept shoffling her feet side to side. Master Frog poked his head out of her pocket and looked at the others. Still he was quiet only blinking.
“What is so funny Little Witch?” Called one of the sitting students. “Why you are! You all look so silly I have to laugh” Little Witch cried out still laughing and laughing. One of the girls, not much older than Little Witch it seemed pointed and laughed herself “We are funny? Who has an ugly toad in their pocket? ” All the students laughed. “Master frog is not uglly and he is not a toad.He is a fine Frog” she defended her lesson helper.
The children began to chant loudly “Frog Girl! Frog Girl!”
All were laughing, pointing and calling her names. “Well I may be a frog girl but you are all silly sitters. To lazy to do your lesson of the day! said Little Witch. One of the young boys, Jeremy yelled at her “there is no lesson to be learned with a frog, silly little witch!” “No, No it is a lesson” Little Witch stomped her feet and cried out. From somewhere in the crowd one could hear “You laughed at our lesson Little Witch. So we have laughed at yours’ “You are all a bunch of mules! Little Witch shouted and she again ran away still hearing their chant of Frog Girl Frog Girl in her ear.
Huffing and puffing she ran and ran. Tears were hot on her tiny little face. Burning her cheeks as the warm breeze swept over her. “i must find some place to rest she thought. Master Frog was not a happy frog. All the running was shaking him and he did not like this. No, not one bit.
Little Witch saw up ahead a log that was near a running creek. Oh good, we shall rest here for awhile before going back” Lttle Witch sat there catching her breath. She let Master Frog hop out of her pocket. He sat there for what seemed to be hours not blinking, not making a sound. Little Witch finally said to him: “Master Frog, all those students were so mean to me. I only wanted my questions answered. Did I do anything to them wrong? No I did not” she said firmly.
With that Master Frog seemed to be sparked with life. He hopped and he leaped. He leaped and he hopped. With a RIBBIT and a Ribbit he hopped on her head with a very loud THUNK!
OUCH cried Little Witch. Master Frog you have hurt me. Now are you not my friend also? RIBBIT RIBBIT RIBBIT and he hopped in the air and again landed with a THUNK. It was harder than the first THUNK! Little Witch winched in pain. “Stop that Master Frog. Stop! It hurts”
Master Frog seemed to be laughing at her. “What is so funny?” she asked rubbing her head. But Master Frog only blinked and winked and gave out the loudest RIBBIT she had ever heard!
Master Frog kept right on ribbitting and ribbiting some more. Not stopping, not even for a quick breathe. “Please stop you are hurting my ears and head” Little Witch said to him.” I do wish I knew what you were saying". Tthen it came to her. What had the teacher said when she was leaving? Listen and hear.
“Master Frog, I was mean first to the others when I met with them. I was mean to you also by making you uncomfortable in my pocket by running and running. I was the mean one. I harmed the others first.Master Frog! Thank you! Thank you! I know what my lesson is now.”
With that she scooped Master Frog up and began walking quickly this time so as not to jostle Master Frog.
“I cant wait to get back to the teacher. I am so excited! ” Little Witch said over and over again to herself. On the way back there sat the sitting students. They all looked at her. Waiting for her to say something again unkind.
“I am sorry that I began talking to you all with such harmful and mean words. I hope you are able to accept my apologize” Little Witch told them. The sitting students talked amongst theirselves and Jermy stood up. “Little Witch, yes we accept yours if you will accept ours. We spoke unkindly to you when we should have treated you kindly. We meant no true harm.” “Oh yes I accept yours and am so happy you will accept mine. They all were smiling with forgiveness.
“i must go now. I will see you all later she said running and waving to them. She was in a hurry to get back to her teacher.
She no sooner made amends to the sitting students when there she was again with the circle students. They were all chatting on a break when she ran up to them. “Listen to me please” Little Witch said catching her breathe. “What is it Littel Witch Correna asked softly. The others were glaring at Little Witch as they knew their last meeting was so not nice for any of them.
” I just want to say I am sorry that I harmed you with my yelling and terrible words.”
“Yes, Little Witch you were not nice to us, but we in turn were not nice to you.” Correna said. ” We all need to apologize for our harmful words, dont you think?” she said to her group. “Each circle student nodded in agreement. ” Little Witch, stay awhile with us and we will teach you about the circle” Correna asked. “I would like that so much, but another time. I have to tell my teacher what I lesson I have learned!!!” She ran off with braely a good bye. All the circle students smiled and laughed to see her running so fast with Master Frog in her pocket.
Tilly looked at Correna “I remeber my Master Frog lesson like it was yesterday. “My Tilly, I think it was only yesterday!” Correna and Tilly laughed together.
Little Witch did not have much further to go until the school house came into sight. She bounded in the door with a THUD. “Little Witch, that is no way to enter the classroom” the teacher tried to sound firm. “Oh but teacher I have the answer to my lesson! I relly and truly do!”
“Well then sit and share with me.” the teacher sitting and smiling at her. Little Witch went over the entire day. From all the harmful and mean words that she said and that was said to her in return. Telling of how Master Frog helped her with her lesson. “In fact he gave the answer away! ” Little Witch laughed.
“Little Witch, what is the answer to your lesson?” asked the teacher
“That is easy!”
“Well then share it with me”
An it harm none, do as thou wilt
Do what you will, so long as it harms none
“But what does it mean?” asked the teacher
“I harmed others with my sharp words. When I did this they harmed me. Both sides were wrong. But righting the wrong was lesson. Accepting our responsibility in our actions and words.”
“WhyLittle Witch you are so right! I am proud of you! Lesson learned well. Is there anything else?”
Little Witch turned a brillant red “Well, you told me to listen and hear.”
“Yes, I did”
“Master Frog taught me to do that. I learned that from him talking and jumping on my head. It hurt but I heard him” Little Witch smiled slightly
The teacher smiled at her littlest student. Knowing that she had learned about harming others, listening and hearing the words within herself. Yes, someday Little Witch will grow to be a fine Wich thought the teacher. A fine Witch indeeed.
“Now go play your study day is over.”
“Teacher I have but one more question to ask.”
“What is it Little Witch?”
“Why is Master Frog a part of my lessons?”
The teacher and Master Frog looked at each other. Neither saying a word or a ribbit.
“Little Witch, that is a lesson for you on another day.”
With that Little Witch with Master Frog in her pocket ran to play like all little children do. Waiting for her next lesson to be learned.
Grandmother Witch smoothed out her dress and looked at the faces that were intensely looking at her. A tiny hand popped up from the back of the group. “Yes, Millicent, what is your question?” asked Grandmother Witch.
“What is Little Witches next lesson?” asked Millicent.
Grandmother Witch looked at her little chickies and chuckled. “Tomorrow is another day. Another lesson. Just like Little Witch, go play now while the sun is still shining bright".
Standing watching the children at play Grandmother Witch only hoped that the lesson of harming others was learned.
Only tomorrow will tell.
Questions Never End
Written : Mistress Ravenfyre; Editor in Chief
We are a society that question. We question everything from what to eat to who is doing what to whom. Our biggest question is our life and what it is all about. Of course we question ourselves, our friends, companions and our deities and guides.
We have become seekers of the almighty answer. Seeking immediate gratification by receiving answers once asked. Patience has been over come by impatience. The old saying of “All good things take time” seems to be one that is not followed. We need and want those answers-NOW.
It is only human to question. Answers bring knowledge. Calming us, for awhile. Without questions we would not be able expand our lives with new knowledge, insight on us or those around us. We need answers.
Yet what becomes of us when answers are slow or do not come at all? How do we react?
Spiritual Questions
Our spirituality is one of the biggest question we want answered. Asking:
Who
Why
Where
When
How long
Just to name a few.
We ask our guides, guardians and our dieties for answers all the time. Show me a sign! Answer what the purpose is. Kindly clarify the situation I am going through. Tell me what is the use? These are the same questions each of us more time than once ask of our beloved deities.
There are times when these questions seem not to be answered. But maybe they are we just didn’t hear or see the answer that was given
Working on the Answer
Asking the question is easy. Receiving is the hard part. I often wonder if those guides, guardians and deities ever think that we ask to much and never hear them? Do they sit and say out loud “How do I send them the answer this time?” or “Here we go again”. Who answers their questions about us? Surely not us.
Sending the answer is tricky as most are not open to the act and art of seeing and hearing. Becoming deaf and blind to what has been sent to us. Thinking about have you ever had an occurrence of the same thing over and over? You just saw it but it did not sink in till much later in time? After it hit you was the answer all that important or needed as in the beginning? How did you feel when it finally did sink in?
When the answer has not been answered within a reasonable time we ask again. Changing the words and statements as we think that maybe we were not clear in what we asked. Sometimes we make the question more complicated than the first time we asked. We wait.
What is Heard or Seen? Nothing? Something? Everything?
Yet we did not get it at all. Ignored the answer as it did not hit us over the head like a cosmic brick. Acting with anger, exasperation, intolerance and impatience we gave up.
Some walk away or even change paths when answers are not given. Feeling that they no longer believe or maybe a different deity will serve them better. Not long after doing all this there they are again knocking at the door with another of the same question. They know that with the changes made surely an answer is coming. What a shock. Nothing again.
Why the Cold Shoulder?
You may have already been given the answer. Answers may not come instantly. In fact some may never be answered. Leaving us to solve the question on our own. BINGO! Your answer. We have been sent a sign that we must do it on our own. Here we have been assuming that the answer was ignored, it was there all the time. Feeling pretty silly now aren’t you?
The answer was solve it yourself. Taking a look at our past and present may help you with what you need to have answered. Look at the signs you may have received but chose to ignore or over look. Maybe you didn’t like what you were sent so you ignored it continuing to ask away. Were there repeated signs, events or anything that stands out? Might have been in the form of a key word, statement, animal or color just to name a few. Take a long, cool look at those. Once you have you might be able to find your answer within. Repetitive answering is common until we simply “get it". Once we do get it we are able to move along to, well, another question.
Leaving It Up To Us
We have to stand on our own two feet at times. Our deities know this. As Free Will is so very important in our growth as individuals. Having the Free Will in order to make our own mistakes, solving our own problems our way. We learn that we are free will thinkers and our pieties love this about us. They may like our choices, especially when they are bad, but they smile knowing that we will realize our mistakes. Sooner or later that is.
When we are not answered outwardly by our deities they are showing us respect as humans. That is the part of why we are so loved by them and we return that love to them. Respect. Admiration. Trust.
By not answering us they have answered us. No matter how frustrating it is on both the deities and us, we must try on our own. If we do not we become dependent upon them and this is not what they wish us to be. We are independent, creative beings that entertain, anger and give happiness to our jadeites. Being dependent upon them would create unhealthy thoughts and love. I am sure that this would not be something that they would enjoy.
Help Carrying Your Burdens
We place far to much of our burdens on our deities lately. We ask. We request. We demand. With each of the above we give away a little something negative of our selves to them. We are no longer working, striving, loving counterparts. We are greedy, self absorbed, spoiled brats. It is no wonder that our answers at times are so slow or not received.
Have we in our hectic and stressful lives focused these emotions onto our deities as well?
Do they feel the stress? Do they have stress management classes?
Questions never stop. Now do they?
Are You Really A Teacher?
Written By: Mistress Ravenfyre
Editor in Chief
Hanging up the telephone a sudden thought came to me. How can one call themselves a teacher when they do not know themselves truly?
A teacher or mentor in the spiritual or mystical world should be someone that is balanced, well centered and know who and what they are. As they are giving advice, guiding those that come to them asking for answers. These teachers or mentors should be able to give some reasonable answers. Yet, I am seeing an influx of those that have woke up one day and said to themselves I am going to mentor or teach.
Their qualifications may be fleeting. I have seen those that have recently come out of the closet to know they should teach. Hearing what they have to say I shudder inside. Coming to the realization that they have not yet achieved the knowing of themselves still struggling with who they are. How can these people offer advice when they are lost and still seeking themselves? Do they offer the correct advice and lead them to path the right way?
Confusion leads to Confusion
I have personally seen these types of self professed teachers/mentors. They have looked at those that have earned the placement through blood, sweat and work as they are qualified also . Seeing as it appears so easy to do. Why shouldnt they do the same thing? Having psychic ability, visions, divinatory skills, they too can guide.
While they mean no true harm, I fear that some may be harming others without knowing. This is worrisome. I have listened to those self proclaimed teachers/mentors speak. I have listened to how they guide. A few are still struggling with who they are and interject their own personal emotions into the guidance. Not being able to separate the two. They ask questions much like a carnival person at a fair. By the time they give advice, they have all the information from the person. Gypsy trickery. Carney Trickery. Have they given the advice from their inner wisdom or simply relied upon the person answering for their selves?
They are confused about how to guide, teach and give advice. Making up things as they go along. Now, we all depend upon knowing certain facts while we are guiding. Yet, most will use the inner voice, showing the true ability. Those that are confident, saged and learned use the ability that has been given. There is no trickery involved.
Balance VS. Inner Turmoil
While being a teacher or mentor we must seek our own balance inside. If we are not in that balance we should not guide others. For doing so we jade the guidance by our own emotions which has no place in our teaching.
Being a teacher, mentor or spiritual guide is not meant for status. We feel the need to give without being given back to. We do not brag about how many people came to us asking for help. We do not compare ourselves to others in the same field. We give because we have been chosen to do so.
Hearing from a person that has recently decided that they are suitable for teaching and hearing them say today I had five people ask me to drives me insane. Is it a competition? And did you give the right advise? I have heard some advise that has been given, some good and some I feel sorry for the person that heard it.
It is not status that leads many to mentoring or teaching. Slowly this has occurred. Many have taken courses along with the inner calling. Using book knowledge along with spiritual insight. Working hard over the years to build a reputation. Maybe this is why I get so angry at those who come to me and say that they are now teachers. I hear their knowledge and see that they have yet faced many of their fears. Some have not even acknowledged who they are to the general public and their families. Hiding in the shadows of their chosen path. How can you teach freely when you have not freed yourself from the inner chains of oppression that binds you?
Confrontation and Arrogance
To often these people that have taken the new title can not take confrontation or criticism . I am speaking of constructive criticism the kind that helps us all learn. If they ask another for their opinion they become defensive, nervous, denying that what they heard could be true or plain angry.
They see it as an attack personally. Not as an insight to help the next time. It is their way or no way. After hearing this I ask them Why did you ask me if you did not wish my opinion? You have wasted both our time. Their attitudes are condescending and patronizing. They are pious and all knowing.
Arrogance. Oh my, arrogance of their knowing and being all. I usually laugh but sometimes I will admit I get extremely annoyed borderline angry. I feel that none of us have the right to be arrogant as to what we do, who we help or how we do it. As there is always someone better than us. We must strive each day to be better, more learned and balanced. I see some of the arrogance in those I am speaking of and I replace it with ignorance. Why? As they are telling me of the numerous students they have taken on, I see that it is ignorance of the guidance. Their self esteem and ego is leading them into a place that may or may not be helping.
Why is it a competition? Why does one have to be the right one? Can you not leave your personal emotions at the door so you will be able to listen and hear? Learn from those that have been teaching for years. You must remember that the true teacher/mentor is always still a student. Still learning. If you can not achieve this in your self, go back and do some soul searching. You need it.
There are many out there that are so confused inside that offering advise helps their self esteem. They are not yet in their comfort zone as to who they are. We all fall prey to this a time or so. What do you do then?
Take Time to Make Time
When a teacher or mentor is at a point of emotional turmoil it is better to take the time to inner soul search. Find out why you are feeling this way. Face your fears, anxiety what ever it is that has you in this darken place. Ask yourself a few questions. I strongly suggest that those that are both new and saged to teaching take a break and not offer any guidance. Those that you turn down when you explain to them that you are not capable at the present time to offer assistance will respect you more than giving them the wrong guidance.
Learn who you are. Is it that important to teach? Or are you doing it because it makes you feel important? If you answered yes to that, take time off to make the time to learn why this is.
Follow your soul to seek the truth. The truth about yourself. Do you know you? If you do not know you how can you know the student?
Not everyone is a teacher or mentor. I have met those that I wished were in the position but they refrain because they are not comfortable with teaching. Their advice, guidance was truly amazing. Those are the teachers I respect the most as they have no need as to status.
On the other side of the coin we have those that want to fit in so badly that they see it as if he/she can do it so can I. NO you cant. It is not as easy as it appears nor does it build our egos. Sometimes it is draining, exasperating and a lot of other emotions in between but worth it.
I have been teaching and mentoring for a number of years. I have studied, been ordained the old fashioned way not the internet method of ministry, and accredited. I still am in school learning new techniques to enhance the knowledge and abilities I have.
Do I brag? Rarely if ever. I do not discuss my students with others that are not qualified to offer advise.
Do I have status? No.
Am I arrogant? Yes, at times, as I am human and arrogance enters as a fleeting moment recognized then laughed at.
Personal Advise
My advise is to stop trying to be someone you are not. Seek within to receive the answers why you have decided to teach or mentor. Ask yourself:
Do I know who I am?
Are my reasons selfish?
Am I skilled with knowledge to guide?
Am I centered and balanced in my life?
If you are still feeling that in your practice or path that you are a new comer, I would say pass on the teaching for now, as you have no references or experience as to rely upon to guide as you are still finding yourself. Build your confidence and learn from others that teach/mentor. There is no disgrace in this.
Once you have found who you are and being in a comfort zone you might just be a wonderful teacher or mentor. There is always tomorrow. Remember Rome was not built in a day and neither is a truly good spiritual teacher or mentor.
Take the time to know you before you teach or guide.
Gain Confidence in your skills, knowledge and self.
There is no class or position for Ego or status in teaching. Let Ego and status go.
Can you do this?
A Lifetime to Remember
A Lifetime to Remember
Written By: Mistress Ravenfyre
The sky is dark even tough it is mid day. The sea and winds are angry and filled with torment for they know that ill tidings are being brought to this land that once grew love. All the sea and wind can do is rage against the events about to unfold.
She stands on her stone balcony that overlooks the sea. Watching the waves pound upon the jagged rocks below and feeling the wind hitting her harshly, she knows the time has come. The sky is dark with clouds that soon will bring another storm. Not like the storms they are used to. One with such torrent and strength that it will wash away the land and the hope of a vision not coming true.
Thunder is heard breaking the silence. Such a loud, crashing noise. As if the Gods their selves just walked upon our earth, unhappily walking. It is not so, she thinks. Having the Gods walk here would be a blessing for one and all. They and they alone carry the only solution in stopping what will happen. Lady Fenella knows they will not intrude, for destiny is ours to live out.
What does it matter, sighing to herself. “all will be lost soon". She moves closer to the edge of the balcony, trying to see something that is not there. Hoping to see something is more the thought.
Her cheeks begin to sting with a mixture of hot tears and the mist that is now coming down. Have the Gods begun to cry also? she thinks. A sound of an opening door can be heard behind her. She does not move from this cold, windy spot, staring out at the sea. She dares not look for she knows that once she turns, the vision will begin and she can not stop it. Quickly thinking to herself that maybe, just maybe if she does not turn to see her husband, Lord Ansgar, the vision will not come about. “My Lady, I must talk with you. Now, if you please for the time is growing near for me to depart". The tone is stern yet filled with a warmth that only she alone can feel. Taking a deep breath, muttering a prayer, she thinks to herself “May the heavens preserve us". With this thought she enters their bedroom, turning to close the door behind her to shut out the cold wind that is violently blowing.
“Lord Ansgar, I did not expect you so soon” “We have much to discuss before I leave, this I am sure you knew” Lord Ansgar replied. Looking at her he chuckles softly thinking that she always knew what he would do before he himself knew. His arrival could come of no surprise. Lord Ansgar looking into her eyes and her face, hoping to see something that would tell him of what would be said, but there was nothing to see. “How I adore this woman” he thought . “I have been a blessed man all these years.” Instead of saying this to her he said: “You should not go out in the cold with only your light wrap. It is freezing with cold and you will chill.” Touching her , ” See you are already cold my lady” Holding her hands in his as he has done for many years now trying to warm them, she replies” Ansgar, you needn’t worry so. I am fine. The sea and wind had something to tell me” a small smile nearly childlike appeared. “You are right, we do have much to say and plan. Time is short “. Lady Fenella walked over to the bed that they have shared for ten years now. The bed of dreams they have always called it. Which soon, as she looked at it will only share one dreamer not two.
“Fenella, your visions have always astounded me and our counsel, but maybe this time it is wrong. Maybe what you saw was indeed a dream, not a vision of our fate to come. Maybe this time you did not see the future of things to come. Could this be the truth?” his tone was nearly a cry of despair. “No, my dearest Ansgar, it was not a dream as you want to badly to call it. It is as those in the past have been. A vision of the coming.” Her voice was muffled as she said this to him for it broke her heart in telling him this truth.
“I ask you, no I implore you, do not go. You have no reason to join in this battle. It has nothing to do with us. This you know is true. It would be just for you to not leave.” “Fenella, it is not a matter of just, it is honor. I gave my word to the brothers to help them fight for their land that is being attacked by the Cradlodish. I can not go back on my word. They have fought side by side for us in the past, now I must return the favor to them. It is our way". He knew that she was not listening to his explanation of why he had to leave. Fenella grasping her shawl tightly by the breast said: “Yet you leave your own land, your homeland, your people” she paused taking a big breath “leaving me". “You shall not return and I will forever be one of the walking dead. Destined to be an empty vessel without you". More tears. Tears that could wash away miles of land she has cried over this separation.
Looking at her in this manner touched his heart . If only he could stay here, forget the word that he gave his brothers. Knowing full well that he could not do that he heard Fenella continue: “Come with me, look out the window at the sea. It is filled with rage, the wind is blowing with anger. Both are raging against your quest for battle for you will leave and not return. The wind and sea know this is and are trying to tell you.” Ansgar and Fenella looked out upon the angry sea. The birds that were caught in the wind were blown here and there, having a hard time getting free of the winds hold. Breaking the silence, Fenella said “Do you not feel the warning by the sea? Do you wish to leave behind your life only to give it to another in battle?” Pain filled his head making it hard for him to rationalize his motives for joining the battle. Knowing that what he would say next would change their destiny and nothing would ever be the same again.
“My Lady, you knew when we wed that we would depart, only to meet again and again. Until such day I shall never leave your side. Yet, that time is not now. This saddens me to leave you for you fill my heart and soul with such love and joy that no man justly deserves from one such as you. Each breath I have taken over the years I have taken with love for you. Yet, I must protect our family honor as my word and name are part of our very being and will be long after we leave this world.We leave behind honor for our family name. This is the way of ours".
Lady Fenella trembled with sobs. Each sob was like a knife in her heart for the pain was not bearable. There was nothing more to do or to say. They each knew that anything else that could or would be said would be empty banter. He was leaving her behind. The wheel was turning. Turning to quickly for both of them.
“I trust the ways of your family, but my heart will lay dormant until we meet. You, my Lord, are the reason for my very life.” Taking his hand in hers and bringing it to her lips she gently kissed it. “Until we meet again, I shall truly love no other. I shall die until we are together again. Only when we meet again will I love once more". Looking into her eyes he knew this to be true. He knew she carried the love for him deep inside and no other man would ever find this love in her."Fenella, Until we meet again, I shall truly love no other. I shall die until we are together again. Only when we meet again will I love once more” Fenella sobbing softly “For I shall find you again no matter where you are or how long it takes . Even if we pass over the Gods will guide us together. We are one soul, you and I. Forever joined.” “Forever joined” he repeated after her.
Ansgar took her into his arms and held her tightly for he knew this was to be the last time for many years ahead. He drank in her sweet scent, touched her silky hair feeling the waves upon his palm. How many times had he done this before finding comfort in touching her? Feeling the power of love fill him. Now this will be the last time to know such pleasure. Ansgar said “Let me gaze upon you. I want to embed your beauty at this moment so it will remain in my memory forever. I shall take this memory to my very grave .” “Promise me this” he said to Fenella “promise that with each sunrise and sunset we will call out the others name upon the wind to carry the sound of love to each other. By saying the others name we will know that our love is alive.” All Fenella could do was shake her head yes. “Use the wind as you do now to carry your voice to me.” Standing holding one another in a tight embrace, she crying and he turning pale with sorrow. Breaking the silence Ansgar says: “I must ready myself.’, glancing at his battle suit laid out before him. Breaking is grasp, Fenella’s arms dropped limply at her sides.
As he was dressing, Fenella in a feeble attempt said: “Please I beg of you, do not go to battle leaving me alone. You will not return to me on our lands. A blade will cut into and tear away at your flesh. Your blood will spill upon this land that is not yours. This blood will mark the spot of your travel to the otherworld. I have made you a promise, now you must promise me this. Meet me on the bridge of Yorkney. Come each month for three years on the third day of each week until we meet."If neither are there at the end of this time, I will know that you have gone. I will send the winds to find you throughout the centuries until we meet.” “I promise you this", he replied not able to keep her stare. Gazing at each neither wanting to break the spell of the moment. Saying nothing with their eyes yet knowing what the other was saying.
A sudden knock at the door broke the spell they were in. Realizing that they now had to face hard reality. The time was nearing. A voice on the outside of the door loomed out that the horses and men were ready to leave. “I will be there in a moment", Ansgar said loudly, a little to loudly. He looked at his beloved, she returning his look.
“Ansgar, my love is yours and yours only on this day and days in another life. Go foolish man go. May Gods hand cover you with protection, for I am unable to protect you this time.” “Fenella, you are my life. My love is yours to hold and keep with you. No other woman , now or in another lifetime have that love.” “May God protect you as I will not be there to do so.” Ansgar said gently in her ear. They embraced with saying such as they knew that this would be the last touch for much time ahead. He kissed her forehead, turned towards the door. WIthout turning to look her way he asked: “If I leave this world and we enter another, how will we know each other?” Looking at his back seeing his shoulders slump, Fenella told him: “We will know by a closeness that will happen with the first meeting. A fleeting look will pass between our eyes of knowing that there is love between us. We will have the feeling that we are home again once we are in each others arms. This my love is how we will know each other. Love such as ours never dies, it lingers looking until love again is found". Fenella continued: “For as the hills of ours are ever green, our love will remain true. We carry with us from this day on pieces of each other. This is how we will know.” With that Ansgar left the room. Softly closing the large door behind him leaving all that he loved.
Lady Fenella sitting once more upon the bed of dreams, crying. Stopping briefly looking towards the sea and knew what it was telling her. The vision had begun. What would happen next would not be a dream only a living nightmare. Fenella readied herself for the next blow to come.
Silently, she asked “Will I ever be ready?”
Spring Cleaning
Spring Cleaning
Written By: Mistress Ravenfyre
The natural inner response to spring is to clean. Cleaning the house, the garage or yard. We feel the urge to clean in order to feel the fresh newness of the season.
How about the cleaning of the soul for a change? Do we also tend to this? Most will answer they do this all year round so there is no reason to take the time during the spring to do this. If they have cleaned all year long why are they still the same? Making the same mistakes repeatedly. Maybe they havent cleaned enough
During the spring cleaning season we each should take a look at what is dusty and dank within ourselves. Seeking to take it out of our inner attic and seeing if we should fix it, clean it or toss it away for good. Can this be done in such a short time? Possibly.
Where did that come from?
Looking inward you will find all sorts of Emotional Knick Knacks or EKK for short. Dust covered but still there. Take one out at time and look at it. Hold it in your mental hand turning it over and over really studying it. Do you really need this or should you resolve to toss it out? Most of these knick knacks can not be fixed with a good dusting or super glue. Some have huge cracks and chips in them that you have placed in that trunk in order to hopefully forget. Yet they still pop up.
Emotions which you have buried only to be re-discovered. Maybe it was a mistake you made with another person. Or a deed that was devious. Any number of things are being held in the inner attic. Take the smaller ones out first. The more you clean out and fix, the more apt you will be to tackle the bigger cleaning jobs. You will be surprised to find some things hidden in that attic of yours. You may even wonder who put it there in the first place and after thinking you may even wonder why it was kept in the first place.
Can it be fixed?
While you are searching and sifting through your inner attic, taking out the EKK’s, use logic not emotion. Each EKK has its own tale, its own out come and its own fix.
Some things that are in that inner attic are just not meant to be repaired. Stop denying and let go. Tossing is hard especially when you have held onto it for so very long, but you can do it. Look at each and every item. Remember what it was about. Details, pain, happiness. Now, why did you put it in the attic? After you have examined this emotional item see if it can be fixed. Do you have to bend to say you are sorry to someone? Are you able to bend? Will the other person accept you doing this? You might discover that taking the chance is all that is needed. Pick up the phone, get in your car take the chance. Holding on to grudges, hurts, or anger is not healthy no matter what you think. The other person may be feeling the same way. Resolving your issue may help the other also in their cleaning. There you are now, fixed two EKKs in one try. Take the chance that is all it is, a chance.
Broke beyond repair
Ok, you have found some EKKs that are simply can’t be fixed for one reason or the other. What to do? Think about it. Using logic and not your emotions. Do not use denial either as this will prolong the cleaning. Doing so will only have it back in the attic again until next spring.
Ask yourself all the key questions
1. Did you do your best
2. Did you try to resolve the problem
3. Is there a resolution
4. Can it be fixed
5. Is it worth holding onto
6. What are you going to do
Once you have thoroughly cleaned the EKK off, you may see that under all that dust it really wasnt as dominant an issue as you thought. We have the ability to build events bigger than what they in fact are. Once you see that some of the EKKs can not be fixed and you are satisfied with your attempts, throw it out. You have cleaned at yet another EKK from the attic giving way to a new room of emotional freedom.
Bigger than life
There are issues that you may find that you can not deal with. If these are acts of abuse, crime or violence, seek a professional to help you. There is no shame in this and would be helpful in your cleaning period. A professional should be sought for bigger emotional issues at all times.
Saying good bye to the clutter
Look at that pile of Emotional Knick Knacks that you are throwing out. Sit there and feel the peace that is now within you. Your emotional attic is lighter and freer. You may feel refreshed and wonderful
It is not an easy task doing this type of cleaning. We generally do not want to face things which we have tucked away. That is why they are there in the first place. Out of sight out of mind. But the truth is they are always there with us.
Take the time to do some spring inner cleaning.
Your mind will thank you
King Vine: Or is It?
“It took you long enough to arrive. Frankly I nearly gave up on you arriving at all. A thought had crossed my mind that maybe the, what do you humans call him? Ah yes, the Boogie man. I thought may the boogie man may have gotten you". With this he begins to laugh in a high guttural laugh. Still chuckling, he waves his hands above his head and lightning and thunder fills the air. The sound is so loud you clamp your hands over your ears and lean over your knees in a near fetal position attempting to block the noise out.
Suddenly as quickly as it started it has stopped. Afraid to move hands away from ears you peer at him. You see an angelic creature standing before you. Beautiful in all the sense of the word. A vision you were not prepared to see. The demon you are supposed to visit is King Vine one of the most feared of Kings of the Legions. How can this be?
“Now that you are here I suppose we might as well begin with the introductions", the demon states matter of factly, nearly with boredom in his voice. His look at you is nearly contemptuous but he changes that quickly.
“Fear not cowardly human for I only wished to entertain you with my fine ability of making the skies light up and the thunder roar". “One of my talents” he states bowing. His voice is hoarse, as if he has a very bad cold. Not a pleasant voice for the ears of the timid.
“My you are a frail creature, I was expecting more but that is fine. Enough about you, it is time to speak of me alone. I am King Vine” laughing to himself for no apparent reason that you can understand. He continues on. “My main duties are urging love between that of a man and a woman. I aid in sustaining marriages". He clamps his hands together in pure delight, “There is nothing I love more than a good love story". Wiping a mock tear away from his eye.
“When at I am angry, which I will tell you something off record, I am getting better at handling my rages. I stopped in one day to view an anger management session on earth. I must say it did help. With a little modifications I made it a better system for me". He giggles. “I am still working through issues of anger, so as an outlet I make tempestuous storms which will swallow entire vessels whole. Lightning and thunder as you have seen a sight show of accompanies my anger".
“I command over 26 legions of spirits, I am planning on expanding. I am so very under appreciated here".
“I come to you as an angel. It is only one side that I show, every coin has two sides remember. My favorite covering is that of a Hart". With that he has changed into a hart. “Ah, you are looking at my fiery tail". He turns so you may see it fully, shaking it a bit. “Isn’t it a fine tail? Everyone likes hot tail". He laughs again uncontrollably.
All of a sudden the walls of the room begin to shake, some of the foundation is cracking. Stones are falling around you. Earthquake in the Underworld? You think suddenly. Gazing around you know that surely you are doomed. King Vine is simply standing there in the middle of the crumbling room, a look of pure disgust covering his face. You hear him muttering “Here we go again".
From the dark shadow of a corner a voice looms out “Earle Furfur, you have gone to far this time with your antics and lies". The noble looking gentleman nods in respect to you saying” Excuse me dear one, but there seems to have been a slight mix up here. You see I am King Vine, this man here is an imposture of the lowest kind. He is in fact Earle Furfur. A known liar".
“He has told you nothing but lies as to his identity". “Here let us see him speak the truth". A triangle has been cast around Earle Furfur. Fure says “Damn, I hate that triangle. It is the only way in which I tell the truth. See it is already working". Winking at you. “Yes, the truth is I am Furfur, the Count of Hell. Once I am in the triangle I am commanded to tell the truth. I will give you answers that are true in matters of both things secret and divine".
His appearance you notice is back to the angelic form. He sees that you are staring at him. “Yes, this is the way that in the triangle I must be seen” he says as if rading your mind.
King Vine stands there looking at the two of you. He is smiling slightly, “Count Furfur, you did tell the truth about yourself. Which my demon friend is rare".
They both begin laughing in unison at that comment. Count Furfur replies “I would presume that King Vine would now wish to share your time. If you will excuse me I shall take my leave. I hope there are no hard feelings over this.”
The two demons and human do not move. Nothing happens. The Count clears his throat and looks at King Vine “Would you mind releasing the triangle now?” King Vine laughs “Sorry old chap, forgot about that". With the last word spoken Count Furfur has vanished
King Vine turns facing you “Now, my young soul, let us go to my chamber and I will tell you about myself. Come the trip is a short one".
The Sigil of Furfur
34th Spirit of the Lesser Key of Solomon
Rank: Earle/Count
Color:Red
Metal: Copper or Silver
Planet: Mars
Incense: Dragons Blood
Ref: The Goetia
Vervain: Protection and Peace
Vervain: Protection and Peace
By: Mistress Ravenfyre
Vervain has been a herb that is widely used for many areas. Depression, spastic pains in the gastro intestinal tract and for all manner of female reproductive system problems when associated with melancholy or anxiety. An early PMS herbal treatment. One of the reasons that this herb was used for depression was due to its bitter taste. Maybe the old adage if it tastes bad it must be good for you rang true with this herbal use.
This herb in our magickal realm may be used in the following areas: Love, protection, purification, peace, money and youth.
Youth? Yes you read it correctly. This herb has been used as an everlasting herb for youth. The person who wishes this places vervainunder their bed, hang it around their necks. I guess that those that used this aren’t around today to tell if it worked or not. So goes another stay young remedy.
There are a few astounding usages for this herb. There is one way that you are able to tell if a person who is ill is going to die or not. Place a bit of vervain in your hand placing this onthe person in a place that they do not see. Wait a few moments, then ask them how they feel. If the ill person says they feel fine, they will live. IF they proclaim they do not feel well, call the mortician they are a goner. **Please note: This is an old wives tale. Do not rely on this for a true reading on an ill person.
Planting vervain in your yard or in your home is said to bring wealth to flow in your home. While the wealth is flowing your plants will thrive. So that is a two-fold usage. Good for both kinds of greenery!
Are you planning on going celebate but afraid those desires you have will just be to strong for you to control? Or better yet, have an ex that you would like to get back at? Gather vervain before sunrise, press outthe juices and drink. The old ones believed by doing this it stopped all sexual desires. Oh, I nearly forgot to tell you. It is supposed to last 7 years.
While doing rituals try wear vervain around your head to add protection from evil spirits.
Priests would use vervain to cleanse altars of Jupiter. They would use small bundles of vervain and sweep off the altar. Try this the next time you are cleaning your sacred space before a ritual. What was good for the old inthis area should be good for the young.
No matter how you use vervain,use wisely. Consult your doctor at all times before taking any herbs or meditcation.
Please use much caution while using this herb.
References: Cunningham, Scott; The encyclopedia of Magical Herbs
vitacost.com
Photo: http://wildflowers.jdcc.edu
Editorial Review: Church of Satan Interview
Editorial Review: Church of Satan Interview
By Mistress Ravenfyre
Although it was great to have someone interviewed from the Church of Satan, I am personally disappointed in the repetitive answers that were given by Church of Satans very own, Les Hernandez.
While reading the interview I nearly did not publish the interview. Why? The interview was dry, repetitive and redundant. The overall tone of the interview seemed in my opinion like a “drone” that had a script and was sticking to it. There was an arrogance, no, a patronizing feel to the entire interview. Somewhat like an adult talking to a very small child.
Now, I realize that Mystic Witch is a wee site yet I personally feel that the questions should have been answered. Not over shadowed with fluff. Sounded more like Glenda the Good Witch. Why am I comparing the two you might ask? It was the overwhelming colorization that was given. I expected to see a “Harm None” or a “So Mote It Be” in this interview somewhere.
Before publishing this interview, I showed it to a few Satanists that I know. Each one had a different reaction. The reactions ranged from laughter to anger. One went so far as calling it a “snow job". The A Typical publicist giving details yet not giving information. Good public relations in other words.
The same answers were given over and over again. As if saying that our viewers were “stupid” and would only understand if told the same information repeatedly. This is not the case. Arrogance is one thing, but condescending tones are not acceptable.
Why when asked if his faith had benefited Mr. Hernandez in any way was not answered? Instead the answer was a circle of nothing once again. Question unanswered. To me it was a simple question, why not answer it? Thinking back, maybe it was an oversight on his part. You see it had to be explained all over again about the religion. Give it up, please.
Now, the next issue that I laughed at was the bit about the memberships. “Bringing to the table” was the statement used. Yes, for $200 you can purchase a membership. With the membership you receive an “embossed crimson card". Then if you wish to become an “Active Member” you have to fill out an application. Questions such as: Define Satan
Describe the car you drive and also the ideal car
Do you have any tangible services or resources which you would care to contribute
There are approximately 40 questions to be filled out, then sign the application and send with a photo. Don’t forget your payment, it is a “Lifetime Amount". At least you do not have to worry about renewal fees.
Now was that so hard to answer about memberships?
I hope that our readers are able to salvage something from this interview. All I know is that I was not alone in feeling that this was a farce. If the Church of Satan wishes to represent themselves in a manner to improve their credibility and reputation, then maybe answering questions might be in order. Not simply stating over and over they are a religion, they are worshiping themselves as God figures and that others are stupid, unlike them.
Hmm, this is the same way Foamy, the High Priest-Warlock of the Squirrels feels.
What did I gain from this interview? Nothing.
It does not reflect the overall feelings of any others associated with Mystic Witch. This is an observation only
Asmodeus: King of Demons
Welcome traveler. We have been waiting for you in order to begin our adventure to the realm where the Demons reside. Sit back and relax. Let your mind go free to explore their world as it was, as it is. Enjoy your visit. They will surely be glad you dropped in.
My friend, you have decide to visit our realm. Please forgive me, I have forgotten my manners. Let me introduce myself to you. I am the King of Demons, Asmodeus. I am said to be the Chief Demon and the most evil in my Lord Satans league. My main task that earns me this station is that of discord.
I am the Demon of Lechery, jealousy, anger and revenge.
My main objectives are to drive husbands and wives apart. I prevent them from having sexual relations, helping husbands on their way to adulterous affairs. I love to break up new marriages. They are the easiest and most entertaining.
Why do I do such horrid things to those that are in love? You may be thinking that because I am a demon I have not had these feelings. Yet, I have loved and lost. I take my frustrations out on those around me. My fair loved one was named Sarah. I made sure that I tortured her by killing 7 of her husbands before they had relations of the “close” kind. I was doing my duty after all, but with deep emotional feelings.
She was going to kill herself, hanging I believe. Hanging during those days brought shame upon the family so she thought against that. Instead she called upon her God. He answered her by sending, Raphael to aide her. Her new and latest husband, Tobiah, was told what to do in order to rid her of my presence. Telling him to place fish liver and heart on the embers for incense. You see I can not tolerate the smell, hence I left for Egypt. Rapheal then bound me by the hand and foot. Not for long did I remain there.
Solomon invoked me in order to help him construct his temple. He asking me the valued questions that one must ask of a demon, I told him that his kingdom would be divided. A prediction for he who invokes me.
I later after some time went on to tell him:
“My constellation (is like an animal which) reclines in its den in heaven; some men call me the Great Bear, but others the Offspring of a Dragon. Moreover, a smaller constellation accompanies my constellation, for the high position and throne of my father is always in the sky. So do not ask me so many things, Solomon, for eventually your kingdom will be divided. This glory of yours is temporary. You have us to torture for a little while; then we shall disperse among human beings again with the result that we shall be worshiped as gods because men do not know the names of the angels who rule over us.” - Testament of Solomon 5:4-5
That was then, this is now. I am a handsome King. I, with three heads. My heads are of an Ogre, a Ram and Bull. All of which are sexually oriented and fit me well. My feet are that of a cock and let us not forget my beautiful wings. I do not ride any ordinary beast of burden. I ride on my dragon and breath fire used in obtaining the destructive powers over man.
There are many tales about me. In Persia, I am included in the seven archangels of their mythology. Having the highest status and power with the Hebrew. They have said that I am the son of Naamah and Shamdon. Being a part of the Seraphim, the highest order of angels which have fallen from grace.
Others say that I am associated with or am the husband of fair Lilith, the Demon Queen of Lust. Yet, I could be the son of Lilith and Adam.
The Christians call me the Devils Leading Agent of Provocation". I rather like that description of myself.
On the other side of the coin, in the Solomonic legends I am known as not being harmful and destructive. They actually have me being mischievous. I remain the King of Demons, but I was degraded and known not to be destructive and dreaded. I was then termed as being the image of “humor and irony".
Now, I have been known to possess people. Lets take a look at the Nuns of Louviers in 17th Century France. There I was blamed as to possessing these nuns and making them do obscene sexual acts. You might be thinking right now, did he do it? I don’t know, do you?
I do have a nasty temper. Being the King Demon of Rage, I guess that comes to no surprise. When I do not succeed in making those with virtue falter or show strife, I present discord to those that are among the wicked. If this doesn’t work, I will make other demons and fiends fight. A demon has to do, what a demon has to do.
I am one of the demons that Magicians and Sorcerers conjure to bring strife unto their enemies. Use my visits well for I do not like being invoked needlessly. Know what I do not like in order to rid me from you, or I will torment you until the days are long.
Bring me not into your world unless you are a trained and worthy magician.
I bid you farewell, for now. Will I see you again? That is your choice.
More Information on Asmodeus
The Sigil of Asmodeus
32nd Spirit of the Lesser Key of Solomon
Rank: King
Color:Yellow
Metal: Gold
Planet: Sun
Incense: Frankencense
Repel by: Water and Fish
Ref: Jewish Encyclopedia
Witches and Witchcraft
Where Demons are Free To Roam
Section Written By: Mistress Ravenfyre
What is Demonology? According to the dictionary it defines as:
Pronounced: de mon ol o gy
1. The study of demons
2. Belief in or worship of demons
3. A list or catalog of one’s enemies
Demons have been in existence since the beginning of time. Starting in the Garden of Eden when the Old Serpent came to Eve. The Old Serpent, otherwise known as; Satan made his entrance into the world.
Satan the greatest adversary of God and his league of demons that taunt the moral with gifts beyond their dreams. Yet can these demons and Satan himself actually influence those who are moral?
Who and what are these specific demons? In the Testament of Solomon there are over 51 different and useful demons to look at. Not to mention the leagues of demons, their station and what their purposes are. There are thousands of demons that those in the Black Art may call upon to use in ways that the person not in the mystical world may not be able to comprehend.
Are all these demons really demons? Or have they become the scape goats of the churches and other religious organizations to keep the masses in line by using the threat of demons and evil?
In this section of Demonolgy, you, the reader will be taken on a trip to the Underworld, the world beneath the heavens. The place in which many of these demons reside. Waiting and lurking for the chance to show their talents. During your stay you will surely meet demons that you have heard of and those that are rarely talked about.
The trip through the Underworld carries many wonders, many sights for those with an open mind to experience. Here is where your journey will begin, the edge of the Underworld, the depths of where the Adversary rules.
I ask the reader to enter their realm with respect and an open mind. Tossing aside any preconceived notions and ideals you may have regarding demons and their purposes.
After a few trips and meetings with those that reside here, you may come back with a different view.
Come now, take my hand, let us together explore the Underworld.
REF: Dictionary.com: Definition of Demonology
Published also in Demonology Department on: Mother Goddess Gnostic Society
The Journey to the Underground
The Journey to the Underground
Title: The Journey to the Underground
Author: R. J. Stewart
Form: Tape: Two Sided
Price: $6.00: Tape: Two Sided
Type: Meditational-Guided
Availability: CD or Tape
To Purchase Items
R.J. Stewarts Website
To quote from the site of purchase about this recording:
“To begin real inner work in a Celtic or Western Tradition, one must become an initiate and travel to the Underworld or Otherworld. On this tape, RJ Stewart offers a powerful visualization narrative which leads the listener (and participant) to this Underworld.”
What a great lead in for the person that wishes to travel in this manner.
I purchased this tape a few months ago after reading a review on another site. I looked the information up, which I would like to add is very little. I decided to purchase the tape due to the fact that I do have many of Mr. Stewarts books which I find on a personal level informative yet “dry".
After receiving the tape, myself and Lord Snowtiger decided to use the meditational tape together. In this way to compare notes on the experience. With relaxation excercises completed (Not given by Mr. Stewart) we were ready to begin our trip to the Underworld.
Trip to the Underworld
I throughly enjoy the tone of voice used on this meditational. His guidance is very soothing and I was actually visualizing as he was taking us down the path. The guidance was verbally very intricate in details. Ok, so far so good.
Then out of no where, Mr. Stewart in a very loud, booming voice shouts out “Who are you? What do you want?” What a mood breaker. My first reaction was saying “What the hell was that"? Then breaking out into laughter. Lord Snowtiger looked at me, shook his head, then laughed.
Where did that come from? Most importantly, why?
I have used this tape on several occasions, once you get over the shock of the shouts the working is moderate.
I have read many other reviews on this meditational. All raves. Am I the only person that has purchased this tape only to be disappointed by it?
In parting, if you wish to purchase this tape or cd I would say go ahead but do so at your own risk. I did not have the “exceptional meetings” as was portrayed on the descriptions. Maybe you will.
What is the best part of the tour of the Underworld? The clicking sound of the off button by the tape player.
Letters to the Goddess
Letters to the Goddess
Written By: Mistress Ravenfye
Mother Azna:
You have shown me many times that through the darkness the light will always shine to light my path.
My faith in your guiding hands has led me through many various paths.
Some of which I may not understand in the beginning, but at the end of the journey I see and understand fully why it was important for the experiences.
Now, I have reached a crossroad. Unsure of which path to safely travel upon.
I feel your ever bold presence but do not see the signs as clearly as days gone by.
Where is this leading to, I ask of you?
Is there a solution that will fill the void that has seemed to swallow the very essence of my soul?
Will there be that light that I have been comforted by at the end of each trial and tribulation?
I seek no immediate solution from you and the Lords of which I have devoted myself to
Realizing that the solution must come from within myself
Yet I see no solution
Have I become blind?
Have I become deaf?
Have I become numb?
Lead your daughter from the darkness into the light
Let me see, feel and hear once again
For I am lost
Azna, Mother of All
I thank you for listening once again and for the blessings that you have graced my life with
Old Dogs Can Be Taught
Written By: Mistress Ravenfyre
Events shape our lives. No matter how big or small the occurrence, it molds us into who and what we are. Whether from the womb or during our childhood right up to being full pledged adult, we are continually molding and re-shaping ourselves.
Looking at our lives we shall all agree that there are changes for the better that should be made. Whether it be our lives in general or our mental way of thinking. Change is good if it enhances our lives and those around us.
Some people that are in our lives we wonder if they will ever change . Not changing by our own standards but simply the right course of action in a constructive manner. Sometimes we are let down and other times we are more surprised than a child at Christmas seeing this change. Here is such a change
Nearly two years ago a gentleman laid in a coma. Pronounced dead by the doctors that were working with him for nearly a month. Organs were failing, shutting down rapidly. After the good-byes were said, I called together a random group of associates to send as much energy as possible to see if the power of a complete unit could possibly save this person. Within a matter of days the gentleman did in fact regain consciousness and the doctors called it a miracle. I call it a coincidence since there is no direct proof as to the group workings true effect.
After the time of recuperation this person proved to be the same mean spirited unhappy person as he was before. Nothing seemed to change, even though he had told of talking and hearing things that were unexplainable. His demeanor was the same. I was saddened that he was saved only not to have really seen the light and changed his destructive personality . Some people never change, or so I thought.
It was puzzling that someone having a near death experience could not see that they were in fact given a second chance and not using this chance to better their life. Myself and others attempted to explain this but a deaf ear was placed in our direction. Life goes on and is what you make it. He was making it the same miserable life as before.
After months of this type of behavior another crisis came to light in this persons life. Since we are hundreds of miles apart all I could do was lend a sympathetic ear. I began hearing things that I never thought I would ever hear from this person.
There was a different air about the words which were being said. Not simply saying them but actually meaning them. Speaking of forgiveness, life, peace. Well my dear readers I was only to happy that I was already sitting or I surely would haven fallen on my rump. Who was I listening to? Surely this is not the same person from a few months ago that was ranting and raving about something that didnt really matter? But it was.
I was amazed at the conversations. Touched by the real meaning behind the words. Our conversation led to a spiritual topic. He was actually listening to me for a change without interruptions and mockery. Who was this person on the end of the phone line? Someone I sure didnt know.
It was refreshing because the realization that life must be grasped fully was there. The feeling of loss was great but he gave forgiveness without a price to the other person. Hearing the conversation I began to think. If it can happen to this hard core uptight, callus person there is hope for others.
My impression of a near death and not learning from the experience has been changed. Maybe it just takes additional time for some people to understand the the new chance at life they have been given.
With not making an active attempt at changing for the better when they were close to loosing their life, they have to loose something else to complete the karmic debt owed and get another wake up call.
Second chances are given and should be taken. Learning that life is about forgiveness and inner happiness. While it is hard, the result is fruitful.
My amazement in this person is continuing. With what he is facing now his mental out look is different than the person I have known for year upon years. Finally seeing the cup is half full is a big step for him. Although I do not see a spiritual person in the making, I think that this is the closest he will get to spiritual thinking. I do see a person that wishes to forgive and continue with a life that is filled with new experiences of happiness. Lessons can be learned.
I was wrong before. I hope I am wrong again
Seekers of Self
Written By: Mistress Ravenfyre
Recently something has come to my attention that personally I am having a hard time mentally digesting. There seems to be a new fad, a revolution of the tried and true statement of “I need to find myself". The past few weeks I have heard this more than a handful of times from people that have had this statement presented to them. Is this a fad? An old excuse in a new era? Or the tiresome excuse to escape into their own personal egotistical world. Giving little to no thought to the others that this blanket statement effects? I think it is an excuse. Sorry but I do.
After listening to many of my clients, associates and a handful of friends, I began thinking. Trying to get a grip on all the new information that I had in my hands. I scoured over the notes I had taken, thinking about the mental notes taken given verbally by friends. Attempting to make some sense of this I set forth to find a common thread in all that I was told by their experiences.
I did find that those that were using this statement had many interesting similarities. Gender was not the issue in any of the cases. Seemingly being equal in numbers in using the finding self statement. The main thread of similarities were the age grouping and employment factors. I took 20 of these experiences and asking each if without using names and details I could use their personal information giving to me in order to try my hand at a simple research. I am by no means an expert nor a scientist. I am only using what facts given to me by the person telling me. I am in no way breaking confidences either. The quest was interesting, sometimes entertaining.
Age and Employment Factors
Pouring over all the statistical information was the easiest to locate a common denominator. The common age group was those between 38-48 years old, Caucasian and employed in blue collar to high end corporate employment. As stated it was nearly equal on gender. Meaning that it was not one sex or the other that was going through this. Nearly all used the same or near same statement of “Finding themselves or Seeking what life really is".
It also appeared that those using this statement were in fact in moderately stable relationships at the time. Having an intimate, reliable and loving relationship within their life. Parties all were of the same opinion that it came from nowhere. Fine one day and seeking the next. That the warning signs simply were not there in the open. Each also went on to state that attempts were made to resolve issues that were spoken of before the severing of ties were made. Most were in a mental limbo so to speak. Another common feeling was the sense of no closure due to communication failure or abrupt leaving.
Finding yourself
I and others have some questions for you, the Seeker of Self. Where did you loose yourself? When did this happen? And where do you go to find YOU?
Lets go over these questions one by one. You see in speaking with all these people I thought about it. We have all had someone say this. Whether it be a friend, loved one or associate. Apparently, it hits those that are in their very late 30s to the late 40s. Mid life crisis? Maybe. I feel that is an added excuse to ice the cake of finding the self. Especially this late in life.
Where did you loose yourself?
I ask this because I really am interested. Did you wake up one morning to find you missing? Was it physical or mental? Did you look down at your body and say “Whoa, were is that body at that was there last night? Or was it a total mental loss? Did you look around and see that this is your life. The path that you chose? Good or bad here it is. Yes, it needs improvement but doesnt all ours? You arose and looked all over the house, your work and outside. Still you couldnt find you.
Loosing yourself is a pretty big thing not to see. Did you begin to back step? Going over all the places you have been? Maybe you left you at the corner store. Only you know. The rest of us didn’t see that it was missing. The search is on. You must find YOU. Time to call the Self Seeker Police.
When did it happen?
Now, with the Self Seeker Police taking notes and asking the questions maybe they can recreate the scene of the crime. Facts only the facts is the first thing that the Self Seeker Police states. Where were you when you lost you? Sitting and thinking you shake your head. You actually do not know. If you knew you wouldnt have called the Self Seeker Police , now would you have? They continue asking those same questions that others have before them asked.
Were you alone when this happened? With another? Where were you they demand.
Thinking about this you come up with a few minor details that might help. You were sitting there one afternoon, feeling sorry for yourself. Looking at days gone by. Gone by to fast for your comfort. They left you quicker than you could catch up to. Not realizing that you did not do all the things that you dreamed of. The things that you waned to. You are in a place now that you never thought that you wold be in. Is it all that bad? Right now you think it is. It is not what you wanted you to be. But there you are.
Maybe you are in a relationship. A loving, caring real relationship. One that was envied by others. Yet, you feel uncomfortable. Why? Is it to close? To good to be true? Or have you decided that inside you always wanted to be loved by many. An idol of the male/female gender. You look into the face of the person that seems devoted to you only to feel you are not what they are seeing. Maybe not but they see it this way.
You decide that it is time to leave.
You pack your emotions up in a duffel bag, waving good bye. Did you say good bye? Or did you simply leave? Did you tell them you were on a travel to find yourself? What was the response? Look back on all that was said and not said. Someday you will have to deal with all this. Better take notes in case you may forget. Look and hear the pain that they are sharing with you. It must be worth all the emotional havoc to you. Say you are sorry and good-bye. Walk away from all in a hurry as this is what you want. Self seeking can be a lonely path to travel.
The Self Seeker Police questions your motives. Selfish? Arrogant? Egotistical? You say no to each. You just dont know any more. You see the pencils writing notes in a hurried fashion. They look at you with a look you have seen before. What was that look? You cant place your finger on it, maybe later it will come to you.
Seeking the Self
While you are seeking the self that you have dreamt of, what are you leaving behind? Some never think about this. Or when they do they feel that what they left behind for awhile will be there waiting. This is not always the case.
When looking for something that is missing it may take years to find. Why expect those you left behind to wait? Patience runs thin with those seekers of self. Those that are left behind know that they may not find what they are seeking. A shame. To many times those seekers give up what is the most important only to find later what it really was. The same people, places or things they ran away from in the first place.
Why is seeking so important? A person reaches an age or place in life when they take a look at their lives. No, maybe it is not what you thought it would but maybe it is what it is supposed to be. You made the choices to get this far. Nobody made you make those decisions. It was you and you alone.
They call it mid life crisis. Another fancy name for finding yourself. This is not gender related for both sexes seem to go thorough it. When they do for some it is a nightmare. They feel like a void is there. They are sinking in despair of the What would have been, what could have been and what should have been emotions.
What about those that do not have this happen to them? Personally I am one of those that is in this age group and seem to be one of the few that is not in some kind of seeking transition. Why? Maybe I want to have a crisis. I feel so left out of the loop. What makes those of us not seeking different?
We have found the path
There is no one correct statement as to why some of us do not have these crisis. I was asked this during a session as to why I had not gone through something similar on a personal level. I thought about it. As I thought I began to notice more and more around me were in fact going through the seeking periods of life. I must admit I felt out of place. Much like the odd ball out. Friends were going though this wanting more than they had now. Not being happy with things in their lives. Not seeing that in reality they did have a good life, they were just to blind not to see it. I sat thinking that I must be lucky not to be feeling the need to search. I heard of endings because people were trying to find themselves. I shake my head in awe. What are you looking for that isnt already there? While you are looking you hurt so many people, mainly yourselves in this pursuit of finding yourself.
Maybe what you are looking for is simply an illusion of what dreams are made of.
Ok, so you didnt become the great artist you wanted to be. Yet, maybe the canvas you are presently painting on right now is the most beautiful picture you will have ever created. Your life in the here and now. You are gracing those that care about you with your smile, your laugh, your pain and tears. Sharing your painting of life for those close to view. They admire it as it is.
Do you intend on leaving this behind on a quest to find something better? Something lost to you but yet was never yours in the first place.
While you are searching you leave behind so many experiences that you are certain to regret in the future. Then will you be searching again for those things lost? Does the search ever really end?
In talking with those that are on both sides it came to me one reason that so many seek never find. They are searching for the past. The future is uncertain so it is easier to live in the past and try to recapture something of youth. I laugh when I hear those around me say they are searching for their selves. Will they like what they find when they are finished? What if the end result is they never find themselves?
While talking with one such friend that was on the receiving end of the looking for self of their mate of 15 years, they asked if I had ever had this experience. I answered yes with a smile and laugh. Thinking that I had finally become jaded they asked why the laugh.
I explained that recently I had someone begin their self search during a mid life crisis. Not being able to face they were getting older, possibilities were thinner (along with their hair line), they had no marketable talents and that they were spiritually empty. They chose to do the less than honorable way of leaving their loved ones behind on this travel to “find themselves". In the meantime, those they left behind were in a wake of emotional turmoil, trying to figure out what they did or did not do to make their loved one go away so abruptly without nary a word of goodbye.
Some acted in anger while others acted in forgiveness. Each now having to face the fallout of the action of one person.
During this time, I too was in this massive destructive force of the others travels. Why was I not gunned down with the rest? I attribute it to my spiritual belief and the forms of meditation that I practice.
Emotions did in fact run from anger to finally forgiveness. Forgiveness was the hardest I will admit. It also gave me the time to look at myself and life. What was good and what was bad. Taking the time to see that I was in fact one of the lucky ones that have had an enlightenment of a small kind.
The turmoil was one that shook everyone’s lives. So much pain, so much emotional hurt was there. I sought inner reflection as my guide through all this. I relied upon my deities to guide me to come out the other side. No longer did I feel guilty of not being one of those seeking something that I was missing. I did not have to excuse my life of knowing who and what I am to those that were seeking. I did not have to feign understanding, sympathy nor support. I had been released in a positive manner. By their leaving to find a respect that they already in fact had I could live and be myself guilt free.
Being around someone that is looking for their selves is not an easy . You feel guilty about the good things that you are feeling. Guilt over nearly everything you do is felt. There is never a day that goes by that you hide your happiness fully. You give everything that you have inside thinking that it will be the best. Sometimes the best is to let go. Let those seekers go find whatever it is. Give them your blessings and start to re-build your own life if left in despair.
Did you find it?
When the day is done, the Self Seeker Police will ask you if you found what you were looking for. You must ask yourself what you did find if anything at all. At what price did you pay for the trip? Did you gain all by this voyage? I and all those that were around you hope so. Did you find what you were looking for only to see it was there in front of you all the time? What a waste of time it must have been. I can hope you did learn something.
From the lost and found
Those of you that have had this happen are those that are residing in the Lost and Found. You are sitting there waiting for those seekers to find you there in that cubicle. Patiently you wait but only your time is passing. Look at what you are missing while you are waiting. You are missing out on life and all it has to offer. Leave the cubicle. Put up a sign “Be Back Later", and breath in the fresh air of life. Your life. Why should you or anyone tag along with those that are seeking to find themselves. While you are waiting, watching and wondering, you may be next to search.
Try to find forgiveness for those that have taken a part of your life away. Forgiveness if the key to moving on. If you feel that you must wait for the seeker to return, be there for them yet still live your own life. This seems to be the hardest for those that are left behind during this seekers travels. Try to take a deep breath and let it go. Maybe they will return to you and then again maybe not.
You also have to think that when they do come back will you be the same person? Friendship and love does remain but it does take on other characteristics in time. Sometimes you may have to wait forever to get the closure or explanation you want. Be prepared to live while you wait. Accept the closure when it is given to you with grace not hostility. I only hope that those involved that I speak of are part of the lucky crowd that will get closure given to them. Including myself in this crowd, only slightly, I too wait for a sound, reasonable, closure. Then again I am not holding my breath for it either.
By all means I think that inner searching is healthy as long as it is done without creating pain and emotional damage to others. Be honest with those around you. Do not simply disappear from their lives without a word. Hand those loved ones or associates a good bye, please wait for me, or anything that will ease their pain. Be a caring person and give all concerned true closure. They do deserve this.
Find a way in your mid life criss without hurting and damaging those around you.
I only hope that what you thought you left behind is still there waiting for you when you return.
For all parties I only wish you safe and sound travels.
May the end of your journey bring you peace within.
Never Far From View
Written By: Mistress Ravenfyre
One of the main questions that I have been asked is how do we know that the Gods and Goddesses are listening. A very potent and tricky question to answer. One that has been attempted over the ages of time.
It is something the individual must feel alone. Not something that is told to them by others. A true feeling of warmth, comfort and trust is felt. During times that are turbulent and calm. The feeling is there. Sometimes it is harder to discern it is there but none the less it is.
During sessions of counseling I have attempted to comfort those with the feeling of what I call it” loss of the Gods". It is the feeling brought on by circumstances that are beyond our control and seem to be over whelming us. Those times when we are at our lowest and darkest moments. Not seeing the eternal light that is flowing around us. The light is there, it is us that is blinded to its glow. We are so wrapped in our dismay that we do not see nor feel the warmth. It is cold and dank . The feeling of being alone in our situation causes us to bemoan to our Gods and Goddesses as to where they are. Why are they letting this happen to their children? Is there no help to be given by them?
Help us to help ourselves
Time and time again you have either read or heard me tell of our having to help ourselves in all situations. Gathering strength from within to begin the process of re-entering the living. Solving the problems on our own. Our Gods and Goddesses lend a whisper in our ears for guidance, yet it is not heard by those in need. They are ignoring the whisper. Worse they are caught up in the yelling and ranting that it is not just to be going through this or that. Yet it is. It is set forth that we go though trying times. We are given tests to strengthen our personal will. Gaining from what they our deities has brought to us.
The help they are giving is nothing at times. It may sadden them to see us in despair, but they know that when the end is there we will have gained three more steps on pur given path.
Seek and Ye Shall Find
Signs abound. One must look, feel and see. Ignoring them hinders your personal progress to enlightenment. We must grasp each new trial with head strong tenacity. Focus on what the problem is and solve it as best we can. Requesting signs and help from our Gods should be done. Not to lay it all on them though. That is the reason we are here. To learn. To experience life. To fix what is needed.
Every where you are there are signs if you are aware. Being in despair does not mean you should totally sink your head in the sand. Keep an eye and ear open. You might be surprised of what you will see or hear. They send us guiding inspiration when asked. It is our fault when it is not received. Our fault? Yes, for we have chosen during these times to be ignorant of what we have learned by past experiences. As each new trial and tribulations is different, there is generally a common ground shared by the problems which occur in your life.
Forgive and Forget
If this is the common theme to your personal dilemma, forgiving and forgetting then work on it. Are you truly forgiving both parties? One person I asked this of answered that they did forgive the party. I in turn asked them did they forgive their selves for forgiving them? They after thought smiled and said “No". Forgiving and forgetting is not only for a person, but things also. Forgiving that something bad has happened in your life and forgetting it happened. Holding onto it for future reference though. You may need to go back and re-think again if you find that you are in the same boat again. Learn to forgive and forget inward also. Sometimes a guilt is there for forgiving because you really didnt want to in the first place. Its ok to do this. You will be surprised at how healing this can be.
Holding Tight
Are you holding onto the past? Let it go as you would a wild bird that has been caged. Look at the bird (your problematic past) grieve that it will soon be gone. Let the cage door hang wide open. See the bird leaving you? This is your way of letting go of what you are holding onto.
Grasping tightly to something or someone is a terrible emotional pain that we often do. We feel the need to hold tight to whatever it is. We claim it, own it and have to have it. Do we really? We are brought people and things into our lives every day. Each may have a lesson for us. Long term friends and associates are the hardest to say good bye to. Especially if an intimate relationship is in the process of leaving. You will find that you may grasp on, holding ever so tightly for fear of the unknown. Our deities has helped us with bringing these into our lives and now will help us to let them go.
Let them go. Grieve freely. Begin to heal yourself. Knowing that your Gods/Goddesses are there with a hand on your shoulder sharing your pain. You learned something and they know it wont be long before you truly see it. I am sure they smile at that thought.
Life Goes On. So must we
For those that have chosen the Path Each knows that deep down they are never alone. The guidance. The warmth. The Love. Its all there for us. We just need to seek inner solace sometimes that our free will is important not only to us but them. Entrust upon them your love and they will do the same. It is up to you to do the hard parts. That is to look with eyes that see. Hear with ears that listen. Love with hearts already filled with love.
Whether it be good or bad times it matters little. Our deities love us with each day that passes. They are there when we need or in some cases think we do not need them.
When you have reached times of despair always trust and remember.
They remain with us when others have left us alone.
Who Am I?
Written By: Mistress Ravenfyre
Who Am I?
I am your neighbor.
I am your teacher
I am your loved one
I am your friend
Who am I?
I am the one that stands next to you
I am the one that stands behind you
I am the one that stands for you
Who am I?
I listen while you talk
I talk when you listen
I share life with you
You share life with me
Who Am I?
I laugh with you
I laugh at you
I cry at your sorrows
You cry at my sorrows
Who am I?
I listen to your beliefs
I listen to your requests
I feel your gift of light
I am proud of your path
Who am I?
I love your life
I love my life
I love life
Who am I?
I am a Satanist
The Winds of Transformation
Written By: Mistress Ravenfyre
“May we meet on the threshold of the Otherworld”
“We are all just travelers here of our own device*
Filled with movement.
Filled with changes.
This is the journey that we are on. Never the same. Always changing.
These are the Winds of Transformation.
The wind blows changes our way each day, do we dare capture this wind to ride the tail skirts seeing where it leads us? The winds of change is sent to us for a reason. Our purpose not readily known to us yet we feel the strong current towing us upwards towards the sky. Flying with great speed somewhere. The trip may bring us to a path that may not be familiar. Standing at a crossroad that we do not know which way to turn. We peak out from the comfort of the shroud that we wear, peering with caution. We take care in studying the paths presented us. Seeking safety before we take that first step on our adventure.
As we look out towards the paths, we wonder which path is ours. Which path will be the one that will take us to the destination where we belong with the less trials. Each path looks the same, but we know that they are not. Each will lead us on an adventure where we will learn new things, meet new people and experience something different. One will be the wrong road while the other the right road, but maybe both roads are right leading us to the same end result. Only one will be more difficult to travel.
While we ponder this off to the side a guide may appear. Giving us no answer to the path to take, simply there as a silent traveling companion. Yes, they know where we are supposed to go. Knowing which is the right path, but the are silent. Allowing us to choose alone.
Giving us no sign, standing there waiting for our decision. We are uncomfortable at certain points knowing to well that choosing the wrong road may cause us harm. We feel another cool breeze touching our cheek. It is time to move towards change. Accepting which road to follow we venture out. We have made the first steps on the path towards change. We are uncertain filled with trepidation. Glancing over our shoulder we see our guide is following at a slower pace but still there. There is no expression of approval.
The wind of transformation has enveloped us now. There is no turning back no matter which path we are on. Yes, we are able to change the dips and valleys, but the main course has been set. Looking for answers to questions that have not yet been asked we beseech the wind to come to our aid.
We seek the wind of change to revitalize our energy.
Filling us with the healing powers that wind is able to lend us.
Cleansing our spirits as we travel
Allowing the wind of change to encompass us
Our journey into transformation is not an easy one. It makes no difference as to which road we chose, we realize this finally. It appears that this is the first lesson learned. That may be one of the hardest lessons that we will have learned. Or is it? Only time will tell us.
Our travels on the path that we have chosen are filled with surprises. These surprises may not always be good. In fact some will be so heart felt that we personally wonder why this happened to us. The lesson is there for us to digest and find the answer. For the answer is there for us to see. The lesson is there in the open but we are at times to blind .
Our guides our there through our entire travels. We may not always see them but they are felt. Leaving a sign here and there for our own comfort. They will help us to remain on the right path. That is if we remain open to their voices. It is when we build walls around ourselves that we loose their voices in sound proof rooms. These are the times that we feel the loneliness, the sorrow of loss. Only when we let the wind blow away the walls will the voices be heard once more.
Embrace the transformation that is presented to you. For embracing will help to lead you to the final destination of your travels. Learn as much as you possibly can. Help those around you that are traveling on a road less uncertain to them. Leave your inner ear open to hear the whispers of guides that enter your world.
No matter what the change is that has blown your way know that it has come to you for a deeper reason. Do not fear changes. For if you do not accept the changes of paths you will stagnate and not grow.
Allow the winds to carry your spirit onward on new paths of adventures. Soak in the experiences. Thank your guides for allowing you to seek the unknown.
Travel as far on your path as you can.
Catch a ride on the tail winds and soar.
Ref: “We are all just travelers here of our own device”
*Hotel California: The Eagles
Photo: John Maione Jr
http://www.johnmaionejr.com
The Flounder
Written By: Mistress Ravenfyre
What is the first thought that comes into your mind at the word “flounder"? I’ll bet it is the fish. A fish that swims aimlessly in the water, really going nowhere in particular. Just swimming and swimming in circles.
When I hear the word flounder, I think of people. This has been occurring more and more lately with all types. Especially those in the occult world. Going from one thing to another, yet never really learning anything. They learn bits and pieces but nothing substantial. Is this a good or bad way to learn? Sometimes, to me it is bad.There is no centralized focus within this person. They move from one source of magick to another not spending the time really learning the workings. They learn the basics, sometimes not even that much. Enough for them to think “I know this stuff". Realty they do not.
What happened to the finding a path, a source of magick and focusing on it until you know it backwards, forwards and backwards again? Are those days finished? Blending is wonderful for we all need to learn new ideas from new sources. This is what keeps the craft alive and well. While we are learning these things we still practice what we do best. Finding ways in which to improve upon it. Adding new found sources is gaining more experience and proffecincy in what we do. Gaining more knowledge along the way makes us realize not to be so set in our learned ways. To always be open to areas that come our way. Knowledge is a tool we must use often.
I am not speaking in terms of those that have a set path, adding bits and pieces to become more adept. I am talking of the flounders. When you speak to them, they know not what they are doing. Their knowledge may be wide and varied, but it has no substance. Ask them their path, they stare blankly back at you and will honestly tell you they have not found it. The Gods and Goddesses have not sent them any sign so they are still looking. For these flounders, will the sign ever be sent? Or has it been sent time and time again to fall on blind eyes? For they are so busy looking all over in that circle, they have swam right by what they should have seen. I wonder if the Gods and Goddesses hit their forehead’s in despair crying out “Oye! Not again".
On a personal level, I have a path that I chose many, many years ago. One in which I travel, practice and use. I research various arts, traditions and sorcery. I may research a day, a month, or up to a year, only to gain knowledge but not use anything that I have found. What I did find was knowledge. This enhances our enlightenment on learning about the practices of others not of our own. While researching, I do not proclaim that this is my new path. I may add a little here and there but I do not change the basis of my practice.
Why do these people not find their way if they are meant to? A flounder doesn’t want to. In looking at them I have found many common denominators in their ways
1. Lack of attention span: They are only able to research for a limited amount of time. Giving up after a short period. Why? Nothing they tried really worked.
2. No set schedule: A flounder will not perform any type of ritual, paying homage, nothing on a regular basis. They forget, to busy, or ill.
3. Excuses Galore: See number 2. That explains all. If there is an excuse as to why they didn’t try something, a flounder has it.
4. Ace of all, Master of None: A flounder has read the book (s) and has it down pat. If the book has a ritual to call upon BoBo the Clown, they did it and it worked. Right away. They do not understand why in the book it states “with practice", what practice?
5. Jumpers: yes, these flounders are well known at jumping and do it very well . They jump from Wicca, to Pagan to Hinduism to the frying pan. Stand still for a moment, you make me nervous!
There are more to distinguish a flounder, but I think that by now you know what I am talking about. I’ll bet you are thinking about those flounders in your life right now. Go ahead and smile, it’s OK!
Please do not get me wrong, those of us that know what we are doing (as for the path etc.) are not glorified saints, although I do know some of those . We are just those that found our way, remained focused, trusting and diligent in our practice. We realize the hunt is exciting yet we also know that the real trophy is our center path workings. The emotional ties that we have is astounding with our Deities. Our faith in what we have found is wondrous to say the least. (This is for all religions and beliefs, not only for the Occult world). In short, we were lucky to find our niche or to have it come our way.
I wish the Flounders in our world the best and a speedy trip to find what they are looking for. Maybe while they are searching the Occult they may realize it is not the world they really belong to. Sometimes that happens. They wish so hard to be a part of the Occult world that they force feed themselves, leading their mind to believe they are a mystic. Could this be another reason they do not receive signs? Possibly.
I wish you all a speedy trip hoping that at the end of your trip you flounder no more.
Get Off the Thrones of Spiritualism
Written By: Mistress Ravenfyre
Why is it that one must attempt to cover up their true feelings in order to protect another’s? Is this the way that it is supposed to be all the time? When is it appropriate to announce that we are tired of feeling like a rag in a pile? Are we to ignore our inner voice in order to save another the pain to swallow our own at all costs due to our chosen spiritual path?
Sometimes our feelings must have validation from others. Not to make us whole but to allow us to feel that we have something. Giving and taking is the ideal, yet it is not 100% done in any relationship. There is always someone or something that gives a little more and takes a little more.
Pain is something that we all must go through a time or two in our lives. I do not mean the pain of loosing people or things but true pain. The type that you wonder why it is our Lords put before us. Is it a cruel joke or is it a lesson that we must learn from? Seeing the pain in others is so much different than going through it ourselves. We can offer words of solace to those but for ourselves we allow self pity, doubt and eventually anger to seep into our emotional buildings. How do we stop this? I do not think that we are able to. Not unless we each become harden non caring individuals. Egotistical sub humans so to speak. Is this the way to go?
Why do we feel the need to validate others feelings while letting our own go by the wayside? Are we truly turning the other cheek or merely masking our inner feelings for another day to have them pop up like toast in toaster? Unexpectedly intruding upon our lives. The more we push away the more we have to deal with later on. Facing these experiences head on is not what we like to do. So why do it?
Those that have taken the way of the spiritual path try very hard to be above the ugly, irrational emotions. Facing each and every trial as a personal enhancement. Yet are we really doing this? Are we fooling ourselves hiding behind the skirts and pants of our chosen deities? Hoping for relief, expecting guidance. Blaming this and that on those that do not understand. Who of us has not blamed another for our own actions due to the fact that we did not want to accept the responsibility of our own personal failings? Waiting for the Gods and Goddess of our choice to send a sign of how to resolve the issue. Some wait years never receiving said sign. Still waiting. While others sit and take heed of their own personal failings.
Yes, I did it.
Yes, I said it.
Yes, I meant it
Have you said these statements above? Or had them said to you?
What is the point of accepting the blame when you are not able to state these truthfully to another? Why must some individuals blame their failings on those that have tried to help them? Their words are harsh and harmful. Their lashing out do to their own unresolved issues stings like an open wound. They or even yourself may only say one of the statements, but not mean it. Step up when you are doing something fully. Accept the blame and the responsibility of your actions and words.
I hear you do you hear me?
This seems to be the most common down fall in any type of relationship, whether personal or professional. The hearing and listening to what is being said. We are all guilty of this. Although this is another aspect of our personalities that we do not like to admit to. Especially when we are hearing things that we do not wish to listen to. Hearing those spoken words that which are harsh, harmful or demeaning (whether they are meant to be or not) is something that is hard to sit idly by and listen to with our mouths closed and ears open. Fear of hearing what we do not wish to hear. We shall defend ourselves at the time and later seeing that there was truth being spoken regret not sitting in silence. Is there a way in over coming this? Yes, but it takes practice and patience. One has to really listen and “hear” what is being spoken. Not putting their own meanings into view. After all it is whomever speaking that has the feelings they need to get out, not just you. Be quiet. Listen. You might hear something valuable to you both.
How many holes in our emotional make up can we fill?
Are we ever clear from this pain that we have enter our lives? No, that is the only answer that I can come up with. All the protective shields that we project can not keep us safe from these painful experiences. Try as we may they happen. Loop holes can not protect us either. We can of course choose not to let anyone or anything come close to us. This will deter some pain from our lives but what would we then gain? Nothing. Each time we feel pain, sorrow or loss we know that there is still life inside. Failings which happen can be looked at under a microscope to see the common source. Maybe a cure can be found. In each emotional slaying there is a lesson. After the roller coaster ride of emotions has leveled out one is ready to heal and face the inner soul searching that needs to begin.
Sitting above the crowd
Sometimes we as spiritual individuals place ourselves higher than those that are not where we are. Listening to those explaining their feelings we try to see a higher essence in their madness of the time. Is there really one to be had? At times there is not. It is plain and simple anger, hurt or sorrow that is coming forth. Yet, we sit on our thrones listening trying to come up with something spiritual to say or even think. What are the right words to say in order to make the other person feel good and ourselves at the same time. Repressing what we would like to say we may something we hope will be thought provoking during the communication. Maybe this is not the time but slipping into the role is as easy as putting on an over coat. Forgetting that we are still individuals, knowing that we must be spiritual at all costs. Only later, sitting alone does the flood of what we really should have said come to our minds.
I am one of those that sit on a throne thinking there is always a lesson, always a meaning in every situation. After all I do mentor those who seek guidance shouldn’t it flow into my personal life as well? Shouldn’t I always have some spiritual revelations to tell? Aren’t I supposed to lead by example even if it hurts? In situations isn’t it my task to try to take away others pain and push mine aside? Disecting my feelings at a later date and time for further exploration.
Maybe it is time for those of us that have decided to seek the higher realms to get off our thrones for awhile and get with the real world emotions. I for one am planning on putting my throne in storage for a few weeks. After all, any chair is comfortable once we adjust to it.
Making the right fit
With that in mind I ask each of you that have chosen the similar path as I this question. Have we in our personal lives lost touch with simply being? I am implying being just ourselves? Not portraying one that has been touched by a deity or had some vision of bringing good to the world, just letting our hair down for awhile and being mundane.
Our emotions are looked at differently. When hurt, stressed, angered and a mixture of other emotions enter into our lives we automatically request guidance. Guidance to making ourselves better. To let us know what to do. How to use this feeling in a good way. What is the meaning behind this situation? There are other questions we ask but those are just to name a few.
How about this for a change?
When things come into our lives or others around us, how about using thoughts such as these:
That situation came out of no where and that is where it is leading
Meaning: It happened. Nothing more or nothing less should be read into it
I hurt because of the events and the hurt will go away with time.
Meaning: That is explanatory on its own. Deal with it. Don’t whine and complain, see it, feel it and move on.
Things happen and there is no hidden message
Meaning: No signs, symbols or messages given. Don’t interpret it as having such.
I learned not to do that again.
Meaning: Lesson taught. Lesson learned. Nothing spiritual there. Just life.
Strength in Learning
I do believe that we are able to learn from most of life’s experiences. Not everything is a spiritual learning but it is learning just as well. That is the important thing here. Learning. Learning is the real power that we have. The knowledge that we gain is spiritual enough at times. We can actively make the choice, the right choice with thought and care. Not impulse thinking but true thinking. Weighing everything out and then deciding. We have many avenues available to us that enables us to take life’s lessons and use them for the good of ourselves and those around us. Looking at each major situation and asking the questions of ourselves on did we do or not do the right thing.
Maybe if those of us that are thought of as mentors, teachers, or personal guides would approach things on a personal level we would move further along the path.
Daily Wind Chant
Written By: Mistress Ravenfyre
Daily Wind Chant
“This is best if done outside. Feeling the wind swelling around you. Covering you with the sweet touch of cleansing and protection.
Wind Power Request
I beseech the wind to hear my request
I ask the winds to fill me with energy
I ask the winds to renew my sense of strength
I ask the winds to renew my sense of personal power
Cleanse my spirit with your sweet breeze of freshness
Cleanse my mind and body
I feel your power
I feel your strength
I feel your protection
Thank you for your unseen arms that shall hold me during this day
Feel the breeze covering your body. Visualize the wind removing all negativity replacing with the power and energy that you are in need of.
Take a few deep breathes. Fill your lungs with the wind. Exhale slowly allowing the negative feelings to be released.
Feel yourself sway with the wind.
Allow yourself a few moments to become one with the wind.
Go about your daily business as usual knowing that you have the wind around you as protection.
Spiders For Healing
witen By: Mistress Ravenfyre
Little Miss Muffet
who sat on her tuffet
eating her curds and way
Along came a spider
that sat down beside her
scaring Miss Muffet away
You may not be Miss Muffet, but like myself these spiders come from nowhere, scaring you half to death. Wait before you whip out the can of Raid or squash it, you may want to save its life.
In some cultures, such as in the Tahitian culture it is considered a no-no to harm that spider. They firmly believe that the spider is one of the shadows of gods. They safely escort the spider out and no harm is done. Other cultures deem it as bad luck to kill one of our 8 legged creatures.
So this doesn’t sound reasonable to you. Especially if it is a Black Widow. Speaking of black spiders in the medieval times black spiders were thought, when carried on the person, as a protection against contagious diseases. Catching a black spider, placing it into the bag made of silk and then wearing it around your neck would ward off those bugs that made them sick.
You don’t want to wear a spider in a bag around your neck. Try this one to make yourself strong and powerful. Catch a spider, place it between two slices of buttered bread and chow down. MMMM, MMM, Good. Once you have done this awhile you are supposed to be powerful and have much strength. That bag around the neck looks a little better, now doesn’t it?
Spiders were also associated with the moon and the phases. Spider webs and the weaving are said to be related to dreams, destiny and creativity. The moon phases closely relating to these web designs were the waxing and waning moon. Moons were drawn to show the web weaving in the artwork. Making the moon and spider webs as being very close in their meanings.
We in modern day do not look to our small creatures as being anything other than pests. not many would dare eat a black spider each day for power. We call the Terminex Man to rid our dwellings of bugs and other creepy crawling things. I am sure they squashed a few spiders also, so don’t feel to bad the next time you kill one.
Before you do snuff that spider, think of this quick and surely delicious recipe for treating the Ague: Ingest live spiders rolled up in either molasses , butter or cobwebs. Once you do this the Ague is cured.
If that doesn’t work, take two spiders and call your doctor in the morning
REF: Witches & Witchcraft
Missing the Magick
Written By: Mistress Ravenfyre
Recently I lost something that was dear to my heart. Loosing this was unexpected and took me back a step or two. I had many mixed feelings. Emotions welled up from no where. Mainly it was pain and sorrow for time lost or the feeling of never having what was there again. Amongst the emotions, the tears flowed and I wondered how many tears could fill a pond. Would I do as the song says “Cry me an river” and be swept away in them? Washing up on a dry and desolate land that I did not recognize? That was when I sat up, looked around and said to myself back this boat up! I smell a Pity Party coming on.
I had mentioned to a few of my closest associates that I felt as though the magic was gone. There was none. I questioned my own personal spiritualality and of course my Deities, totems and guides. I even questioned the little floaters around my house. I did not really question so much it was more of a “there is no magic, no spiritual learning, there is nothing but lifes cruel joke".
I explained to friends and my family that I was going to take a brief time to relax, soul search (yes, again) and mend. Since the magic was gone it was all an illusion. Thinking that everything that I have built my trust, my dreams and faith upon was just that, an illusion. I was void from all emotions and knew deep down that I had had enough of the path I have been traveling.
Settling in for a long, miserable pity party (only one guest will be present, please) I began the festivities of walking away
Who Brought the Whine?
There I am set for the long haul of singing the blues. Letting go of things that I held so close to my heart. My faith. My devotion. My magic. I put on my what I like to call “comfort clothes". We all have them, admit it. Those crummy looking sweat pants, sloppy shirts and slippers that make our feet sing. Let the party begin. I started with the ceremonial laying down on the couch. Thinking of all the things said, felt, didn’t say, never would do. The list goes on and on. Minutes passed into hours. By this time, I was feeling pretty good about myself and the pity that was covering me. From somewhere in my home there was a loud BOOM. To me it sounded like an explosion or gun shot but was located in my house. Now, I have a team of silly, normal boys with paint ball guns. They enjoy releasing air in the house and doing things that one should not do. I leapt of the couch and went room to room asking about the noise. Nobody had heard it. Well, I did. It was to loud to be my imagination. So, off I went back to the couch. Only this time I wasn’t feeling all that bad. Wait a minute I am supposed to be crying. Sitting there I looked at my surroundings and smiled. I felt something different.
What Changed?
I thought OK I’ll go to my room and continue my quest for self destruction. Walking in I saw all the things that gives me great comfort. My new antique vanity (my birthday gift to me), my demonic statues and my painting of Anton LaVey. Ah, now there is a man after my heart, dead. I thought laughing. A heavy sigh and the tears welled up once more. A deep sadness filled my body and I was happy that the party was still in force. I cried, I ranted, I stared into space. I was preparing to pack each and every implement, talisman you name it away. Illusions are gone. Faith gone. So must everything that reminds me of it.
Then something caught my eye. My statues of Ganesh. Ganesh has been a part of my life for some time now. Showing himself in a dream and making his presence known. Loudly at times. For those that do not know much about Ganesh, the Guide removes obstacles. Ganesh expresses the unity of man, the Great Being. Ganesh always has a solution at hand for every problem. At times throwing in obstacles as tests of our stamina and love. He does this with love, of course. He can be a blessing and a nightmare. Balance, my friends, always balance.
Ganesh: Bless You
Now, I am a firm believer in signs from our deities. At this time though I am walking away. I am lost in the swamp land of muck and mire.
My children all venture upstairs to my room. I think to myself why cant they just go away and let me drown in my pity? Not my children. They are like bulls raging down the alleys of Spain. One by one they say something either very serious or very comical. Finally they leave me. I am now mad that they made me happy. How can I be happy when I am miserable? Damn them, I think and actually say out loud. Only the walls hear me.
I watch something on TV but my eyes keep going to Ganesh. Him and his whimsical looks, charm and knowing glare. I nearly covered him up but felt that would be disrespectful. I ask him to kindly leave me alone. Yet I do not think he was listening to me at all. He was just there all around me like a cozy blanket feeling. I did my normal ritual thanking for the many wonderful and good things that did happen that day, and threw in a little request. Ganesh was the last thing I saw before passing out in what I thought would be a restless night.
Follow Your Dreams
My dreams were filled with a mixture of visions. They went from past events to nightmarish animals. Waking from one I shook it off as stress. I deserve these nightmares I thought. After falling back to sleep the dreams changed to something else. I saw Ganesh (yes, the stress of the day and mind control does that) and felt as if he were speaking to me. There was someone else there also in the shadows it seemed. Lilith came out smiling. The conversation and feelings that I had during this dream was the most extraordinary I have ever had. I saw things that I have never seen in my wildest dreams. And they can be pretty wild. When it seemed that they were both finished with whatever it was they felt they had to do, I awoke. I did my normal get the children ready for school, make the coffee the normal routine. I stopped and noticed something. My home felt lighter, the mood was actually light and airy. My cats and birds were acting bouncy and sillier than they have been. I didn’t feel a heavy weight or sorrow. I finished with the normal things that i do and went up and bowed to Ganesh. I thought you silly elephant thanks for the message, I get it. I thanked Lilith for she showed me more than I would ever hope to see.
Magic is Every Where
You may be wondering if I am still sad. The answer is yes, very much so. Especially if there is no specific closure.
When one looses something or someone very important to them it takes time to mourn the passing. I will feel this grief for many years to come. Even today writing this I feel a jab or two. Yet I am OK. I will be OK. I would definitely like to see something change but if it doesn’t I will live and go on. I will be happy no matter what it takes. One can not let go of the past until we look at it to see what we have learned from the experience. We must see if there is anything that we could or would have changed. Individuals must learn from the bad as well as the good that happens to them. Once this is accomplished we are free to let it go with the wind. I would love to have the missing part replaced and returned but it may not. Only time and reflection will tell. That saddens me. In my own soul searching (which I am still doing), will I want it to return? I am unsure one way or the other.
When we build dreams and hopes to see them fall apart we are prone to not seeing the future because we are left with the feeling of nothing. There is always a new bridge to be built. The key is to make new hopes, dreams and goals. Never loosing sight of the life that is right around the corner. Turning that corner is filled with fear of the unknown. Change is so frightening. Change is needed so we do not become still and stagnate.
We also must remember that the magic never leaves us, we leave the magic. Some return while others may not. In my gloom I was ready to give up my magic, my faith but my deities were not going to let me do so for something so shallow. I think they believe in us as much as we them.I am very thankful for that. In our times of doubts they are there when needed. Showing us what it is we need to see.
The magic is there. Look around and you will see it clearly. For me it is there in the faces of my children. The magic is in everything that is around me. Loosing my faith? My faith just like the magic never left. Thinking about walking away was only an excuse to bury my pain instead of facing it head on. My devotion and faith remains intact and even stronger than before.
I sit here thinking once more that there is a plan, a lesson, a sense of gained knowledge that has been given me. It is up to me to pick myself up, dust off the remorse and once again travel down my path. With each step that takes me closer to the end of the adventure called life, the magic and devotion will be my tried and true companion.
What do I think that big boom was? I think it was my head coming out my rear but we’ll never know, will we?
Having It All
Written By: Mistress Ravenfyre
“Those whose palm-kernels were cracked for them by a benevolent spirit should not forget to be humble"–Chinese Proverb
“Well you finally have it all.” A statement that was written to me by my mother in an email. Reading that made me think. It never occurred to me in that light. Yet, I ponder is it true?
Having it all is construed as the materialistic items in which we own. Things as it may be, houses, clothes, jewelry and other toys. These are very important to own but are they what makes a person feel totally complete? I love the idea of owning such things, and at this point of life I actually do. Thinking further does this fact make me any happier within?
It is not the things that are in my life that enhance my happiness. Homes and other items are fill ins that are needed. What I have found that makes me feel complete are the basic inner feelings of “balance.” Balance in areas that come from within not the external comforts. My family enhances this feeling of comfort and balance. Finding that even in those trying times of hectic family life there is always something to smile about and give thanks to the Lords and Lady for.
Taking stock of what really gives us the feeling of having it all should be done on a regular basis. We, as individuals, seem to over look the inner workings of our daily lives. We find it hard to look inward seeing what is there. Often times we see the things that are wrong and ignore the things that went right. We place to much emphasis on those “bad days” and neglect the good.
How to get that feeling of having it all
Seems pretty easy to me. Look inward at your belief structure . A good hard look, not a brief glance. I am sure that you will find that you have been blessed with so many things that you may become overwhelmed.
Each of us has our path to follow. Leading us to find adventures of self discovery and hopefully to the path of higher enlightenment. Practioners of the Art often find that each new revelation, ability or knowledge leads them one step closer to where it is they wish to be. We as Occultists find that our biggest self gratification is signals from the Deities that we have chosen. Or those that have chosen us if that is the case. Finding that comfort may be taken by what we practice. Our lives is our practice. We may not cast spells, do rituals or whatever each day but we do use what we believe in daily.
In many ways I surmise that I do have it all. I have a wonderful family unit, dear friends that are supportive and just a little whacked out, and inner balance. I have found that one of the most important things in life is just that. Life. It is not the fixtures and trimmings that dress it up but the structure of being on a path that fills every day with such glory and richness. This I attribute to the knowledge that I have gained through much study with the help of those Gods and Goddesses which help me to discover what is important and meaningful in life.
I pondered even further as to what having it all really means to me. The conclusion was simple. I have been blessed with family, friends and gifted colleagues. My belief structure which is not for everyone has given me a sense of balance and inner peace. My travels now are not so laden with the hurts and wrongs of the past. Each day I know that I will be given a fresh palette to paint a vibrant and mystical portrait. It is mine to paint and choose to do the best of that which I can.
I have found peace within. That to me is having it all.
We each have it all in different ways.
Learning To Walk Alone
Written By: Mistress Ravenfyre
Requests. Requests. Requests.
Is this all the Gods and Goddesses ever hear? Over and over again they listen to us who worship them tell of our woes, tales of sorrow, our despair. In times of sorrow, stress and loneliness, we reach out for them. Calling their names individually seeking their guidance.
Pouring out our trials and tribulations hoping to be heard. Hoping to have some kind intervention. Will there be a miracle to save us from whatever is going on in our lives which is making us call them in this manner? Are we seeking instant gratification instead of taking the long road ourselves?
Do the Gods and Goddesses ever tire of these requests placed upon their shoulders? Do they when they know that they are unable to intervene even in a small way, hang their heads and say a silent prayer for us? Do the thoughts run through their heads that certain people only call upon them when they are in trouble but no other time? Knowing that the reason that there will be no help by them is because these people have to learn to help themselves.
I am sure that they do tire by all this. Hearing it from thousands upon thousands, day in and day out. This can be wearisome. Not to mention do these same people give thanks to the Gods and Goddesses when times are good? Or simply when the tough get going? Hearing the pain in their voices, seeing the tears cascade down their faces. Holding their heads in hands weeping. No, I am not talking about us, mortals. I am speaking of our Gods and Goddesses. Are we so selfish and wrapped up in our lives and ego that we forget that they to feel these pains from us? They feel our despair. Yet they at times know that it is our job, here on our planet to solve our problems without their help.
They are giving their help. They are helping us by not helping. Letting us make mistakes, solve these mistakes and pave the road smoother for our travels. Each individual as they know has a path to walk. This path may be filled with ruts and holes, but it is the path we must travel. To learn to fill in these ruts is our job. Not the Divine Ones. We need to learn to fill these ruts with concrete. Filling one hole at a time. Once we do this, our travels are not as burdened.
Our Gods and Goddesses, whomever they may be, know that we must learn to solve our own problems. By solving our own problems alone teaches us those life lessons that are needed for us to grow inside. Each time we solve these problems we have laid another new section on our road.
This re-building of our paths seems to be never ending. Obstacles seem to be placed in front of us. Making us stop, not being able to go around whatever is there. Sometimes we must open our minds eye to see the solution. Causing us to bring out our inner strengths and trust. Worry, doubts, fears are those main obstacles that in any given situation prohibits us from coming up with a viable solution. Once we are able to overcome the fears, doubts and worries, we are able to free our mind and let the soft inner voice caress us with the answers. Listening to this voice can be all the help that you need. For you have opened up to see and hear the signs that are leading you to the solution. You are now able to walk straighter and see the light at the end of the tunnel.
Nobody said that life was easy all the time. If it were easy what would we learn? Would we in fact have our faith?
If we did not have these opportunities to overcome obstacles would we recognize a Divine Intervention? Would we appreciate it? The awe would seem to be gone.
Our Gods and Goddesses may reveal in our accomplishments. For they know that even by the tough love that they sometimes send out, we have survived another passage.
We will grow each time by our learning to be stronger, independent and happy individuals.
They see us and smile knowing that we are doing fine alone most of the time. Our faith guides us. Our intelligence and perseverance to face the hardships are only stepping stones on the way to enlightenment.
You know and feel that their eyes and hearts are never closed to us. They are doing us a favor by allowing us “free will.” Their silent prayers are our answers to our requests. We just have to learn to open our minds and listen for them. They have done more for us by doing nothing.
After the hardships are behind you. Please remember to thank your Gods and Goddesses for the blessings that you have in your life. One should do this daily. Whether in time of need or not. Don’t just call upon them in times of sorrow or hard times. Share your happiness with them. Your love and faith should be shown to them continuously by the things you do each day., Use personal words or prayers created just for them. Speak to your chosen Gods and Goddesses as they are with you because they are. Choose to do whatever makes you feel closer to them.
While you are alone, look again at the path you are traveling. See where you have been, where you are and where you are going. See how far you have come. See the things that brightened your life. Finally, raise your eyes and arms to the heaven, say a silent prayer of love and gratitude to your Gods and Goddesses for their safe travels.
The Anger Within
Written By: Mistress Ravenfyre
There are times in our lives that we get angry. I am not talking about the normal “I’m mad” but really angry. The kind of anger that blinds you from thinking rationally.
How do we as mystics handle such emotion? Are there not times that we feel such strong emotion that it takes complete control of every fiber of our being? What are the thoughts that we have? Are they any different than the mundane?
Many will say no the anger we feel is the same. That is a good point and partially true. It is not the emotion but what we do with it.
Have you not while feeling such rage thought that the first thing you wanted to do, no YOU were going to do was to use whatever ability you have at your disposal to confront and over throw whom ever made you feel this way. Many will say, no they have not thought this but personally I think that is a “self denial” statement.
We as psychics, mystics and magicians all a time or three have thought about using what we do against someone. Not really crossing over to the dark side, which you are already in, but to simply teach them a lesson. To take control of the situation in the manner that you know best. Is this always a bad thing? I do not think so.
There are times when we are provoked into this way of thinking. It is how we deal with it that may be wrong. We can sit back and idly do nothing or use our given talents in a manner that will teach a lesson, in a good way of course. Are we to sit on our hands, herbs and books and do nothing? Turning the other cheek is not the answer in all cases.
I do not practice the same as many here on our beloved site. I act while others present to the Universe or their Gods/Goddesses and wait for the answers to come to them. I see that with balance in magick we are able to do as we please as long as we do not cause harm. I create, I manifest, I send forth.
Do I feel guilt? No. Some say that persons in my Art sit as Judge jury and hang man. Maybe we are. It takes one thing that most do not realize . Logic not emotion. Taking the emotion, rationalizing with logic then acting. All must be done sometimes in a spit second, or so it seems.
Presenting to the Universe is something that I and many of my type do. Justice is presented in our workings. If what we present is justified then it will work.If it does not we know that we acted wrong and move on. It is a judgment call of sorts. There are some cases that sending forth negative energy to someone seems like the only thing to do.
Not everything that we do as mystics is all white lily and sweetness. I do not hex and curse but I do present entities that will cause disorder for those that have pushed the button.This is not something that I do all the time and just because I want to either. There are times when after calming down I see that it would have been wrong and have done nothing. Then there are the other times when a demon up a persons rear is just what the doctor ordered.
Today was one of those times when I had to decide what to do. I talked with those in my circle getting advice since they all practice different areas of magick. Each one had the same opinion. To do what needed to be done for the situation was an outrage. I will proceed with thought, care and hope that justice will be served to this person. I am not the only one doing this working.
Sometimes we must decide which side we must work on. Black, white or grey. Combining what we know and doing what is best. I do not see it as wrong in certain cases. This is the time.
For the person and persons that know that I am directing this towards, use this as a warning. I will set the wheels of justice in motion. I will manifest, I will send forth as much as I am allowed. I will use whatever means is at my disposal, be it as people in my craft or creatures of manifestation. Battles can be lost, but I mean to win the war. Since it will be a battle in the mundane since, I fear that you have lost already.
A Tear For The Mislead Psychic
Written By: Mistress Ravenfyre
There comes a time when we all must come to terms with those that use their wondrous abilities for the wrong reasons. Some will use for profit, taking money from those that can not afford it. Bringing them into a world that is full of lies and illusions of what will not ever happen to them. The clients come to them placing their trust and faith into these psychics palms. Only which at a later time, if at all, do they find that they were dupped and swindled. Hopefully, this will happen before their money is depleted.
This is not about those psychic abusers. Not this time, maybe later. No, this is about those with the gift that wish so deeply to be seen and heard by others that they cross the line between mundane and psychic knowledge, in order to gain respect by those around them that ask for psychic help. These psychics will rely on common instinct in giving advice. They do not seek the answers of guides, Gods, Goddesses, they simply apply good old fashioned common sense. Yet, while doing so they proclaim it is what they have seen or felt. This is misleading, not only for the person seeking answers but to the psychic themselves.
What is it that these individuals really want? They wish to have a following of glossy eyed, people who do not know how to get in touch with their rightful spirituality, asking them questions. They wish to have their own court you might say. It builds their self esteem by having these people seek their advice. The advice often times is something that if the questioner tried with thought would come to them in any given situation. They do not trust their own intuition for the answers. The psychic adviser they have found feeds them what they already know. This is Mundane Knowledge.
The psychic, now has moved into the world of “Spiritual Advisor” or “Teacher", calling those individuals their students. They are not students, they are those with problems needing a sounding board to express what they are feeling. They have already given you the answer but you return it to them in fancy, spiritual tones. You are not a teacher nor are you a true spiritual guide when you are taking this route. You are no better than the gypsy fortune teller that swindles by deceit. You are deceiving yourself but worse those with problems.
You forget to tell them that they should use their own instincts, to ask themselves the same questions, to go with their gut feelings. No, you play the role of Guide for prestige. You want so badly to prove yourself and ability that you do not use it properly. You have not become the advisor, the teacher or the guide. You have wasted your talent by greed of status.
Most of us that have the visionary talent are truthful. If we are allowed to tell what we see or feel, then we do so. Be it good or bad, we will share. True teachers do not give false hopes because we do not wish to hurt those asking a question nor do we use what we have been told as the answer. Using the questioners own answer is simply not right.
Why do you wish to be a guide anyway? Have you ever asked yourself this? No, you may not get money for your advice, but in a way you do. Your payment is greed of a different type. Greed of feeding off the weak of the moment. This is a pound of gold in many ways. As it fills not your pockets but your self bloated inner ego.
I am saddened by your actions, your self imposed titles. I weep for those that believe in you for they are so desperate for answers that they only heard your voice and not their own. You are hurting the innocent seekers by your falsehoods.
My eyes fill with tears for those that have earned the title of guide, advisor and teacher only to be laughed at, doubted or even feared. The teachers and guides that at the end of the day are exhausted from what they do not energized. For those are the others that you are hurting by false prophesies based on common sense.
Please do not use what you have been given to suit yourself only. Use your gift wisely, openly and with love. Love for those that you really wish to help, those that have entered for a reason. They are not your converts, your people, your students. They are humans that are in need of spiritual guidance. Spiritual guidance only will come from those that give of themselves not give for themselves.
I shed a tear of despair that you will see the way before you hurt someone unintentionally.
What Does A Witch Do When They Are Depressed
Written By: Mistress Ravenfyre
I have been asked so many times as what does one that is a Witch or a member of the Craft do when they are depressed or fall on hard times? What do they feel and how do they do things differently than those not of the Practice.
Thinking about this I too had to wonder. I came to the conclusion that we don’t do anything differently, yet maybe we do.
Sometimes when we get down and out we may question our spirituality. Talking with others they have told me they wonder if they did something wrong, not paid homage enough, not doing things for the good of the God/Goddess feeling that the Deities have turned a deaf ear to them. Becoming distressed over the thought, mill away the hours going over every fine detail of their life in the time frame of question.
Solving the Problem
In solving the problem, many use meditation to come up with the answer that is needed. This may be an increase in the normal meditation rite that they perform on a daily basis. Asking for guidance in the time of need.
Relaxing into the meditation is the first thing in order to have the answer given to you. Removing the stress and being open. Hard to do when you are in a black, bleak place. Find the quiet place within and listen. Asking their question and waiting for an answer. They present to the Universe and let it go.
One must realize that sometimes answers are not given right away if any at all. The Gods and Goddesses wish us to stand on our own two feet and solve things on our own. They offer us guidance only, what we do with this guidance is up to us, the individual.
They do not turn their backs nor not listen to us. They are guides only. We have the free will to do as we please. Besides, they have at times no power to change our situation, only we can do so. After the meditations, incense burning and rituals done, all we can do is hope that guidance will be offered.
We in our time of needs call upon our chosen Deity to help us. Give us strength when we are weak. Witches and those of the various paths call upon the love that they give us. Seeing that there is always something good even in the time of bad.
Maybe this is what we do differently than others. We know we will be guided to the right answer. We use our intuition and knowledge of the Mysteries that has been gained over the years of practice. We know that for every time we question, feel doubt or the “Dark of the Soul” there will be that bright light showing us that we are not alone. Really, when you honestly think about it, is no different than the Christian, the Catholic or even the Satanist. Each religion and or belief calls upon the Being(s) of what they believe and trust in.
When I get in the darker moments, I call forth the inner light to guide me. To walk with me until the time has passed. With each bad moment it is a learning experience of stamina, faith, trust and love in the Gods and Goddesses that I personally honor. And for myself in seeing the situation through till the bitter end, walking away when finished knowing that I did my best.
When we of the Craft are depressed we do as all others do. Cross our fingers and hope for the best.
When Days Are Dark
Written By: Mistress Ravenfyre
To those that come to you, seeking guidance, advice and spiritual help, they sense you will indeed help them on their travels. You of course know you will. No matter how tired, stressed or unbalanced you feel at the time of their arrival you will help. You see behind their eyes almost as though you see their souls. The sight sometimes is not pretty, can be scary but you look past that for it has been given to you to do so.
Those of you that know of what I am speaking of know the feeling that comes over you. There is noting that you can or will do in order to stop the flow of “seeing". Wondering are you giving the right advice or leading them on the right path to where they belong. You know that you can only tell them what you see or feel. This is the best you are able to do.
If you are lucky you will hear them tell you how you have helped them. It may be minutes, hours days or even years that you are helping yet the gratitude will be there. Seeing those that you have and are helping is what it is all about at times. You did not ask them to come to you, they were lead there by some call unbeknownst to them and you. They were sent to you. They do not know why. I have heard this time and time again from those that i have counselled. They just knew they had to be seen by me. Sometimes they did not know it was actually me until we spoke.
If you are on the path of spiritual advisor you also know how tired you become. Not of helping but the energy that it takes. Or is that only myself feeling this way? After a long day of speaking, seeing and feeling of those that come to me I am drained. Or even worse I feel a dark period.
During this dark period I think of things like this. Our days often times seen like the darkest of nights. No hope, no peace, no answers from within. Feelings of discomfort, loneliness and isolation sinks in, Drowning in a pool of sorrow. Not knowing if the sorrow is truly personal or the hang over from someone else’s persona.
Turning inward trying to find a way out of this, seeing still the darkness.
Where is the shining light that guides? Has it gone out for me personally? Has it left, slipped past like a fine mist in the early morn? Cutting through the mist can be more than trying. Nothing seems to dissipate it. Not even chocolate does the job. The feelings only intensifies, Those around offer help, kind words, praise, yet it is not the help that we are seeking.
Time and time again asking will the help ever come? Will our personal guides arrive just in time with the answers and warmth that we are in dire need of? The only answer ringing in the mind is “not this time".
There is no quick fix realizing this is a step forward yet a step back.
How to fix the inner turmoil of the darkness?
Trying all the tried and true methods and techniques such as meditating, incense, potions, rituals and requesting from our spiritual guides that is always there. The list goes on and on yet nothing happens.
No fear is showing only a grasping despair that is growing larger with each moment. Present this to the Universe for an answer. Isn’t this what we do, telling others the same thing, Only when at this time you do it, the Universe has appeared to turn a deaf ear. Or has it? Wondering and waiting. Still nothing.
The answer to your plea is apparent. Walk away from the magickal and mystical world that you belong to. For in thinking, isn’t it all an illusion? It is the power that of belief. You believe but the power is gone. A world built upon myth, lore and fables. Not to mention the tons and tons of books written on the subject. All from someone else’s perspective.
The tools, the books, the things most cherished seem to be empty. Then again, they are only materialistic “things” to set the stage to further the performance of you the actor. Looking at these things this way, you can feel the curtain closing. There is no stage bow to the crowd. Only you standing alone. Tired.
Going through this darkness nothing seems as it was. No comfort, no peace no assurance. Only one standing in the cold of their own cross roads of spiritual exhaustion. One asking a question for their selves and no answer is returned.
Doubts in belief may happen. The belief structure that has been established is now crumbling away. The foundation in which stood firm and solid is shaking under foot.
Prayers, shouts, pleas and begging to our beloved gods and goddesses still show nothing.
Sitting back it is felt that the spirit is going leaving only an empty husk which was filled with total and unconditional devotion. Maybe it wasn’t ever there. Maybe that to was an illusion.
Thinking of those you have helped and yet there is little you feel you are doing for yourself. Is there help on the way? Are there answers coming? Will there be that sudden bright light that will once more warm your soul?
Where is the help for the helper? Who helps us on our pathway? Especially in times of need and blackness of the soul? Yes, we have mentors but there comes a time when the mentor relinquishes your hand and you must travel this path alone. You must simply “be". This is hard for mentor and student to do. But it is reality of magickal life.
What happens to us? Nobody knows what we go through. Those that are the helpers of others. People too often think we are filled with the power and knowledge that never ends. We are those that never tire, never tire. Yet we need comfort, guidance and more just like everyone else in our world. Sometimes more.
About this time you may be thinking “then just walk away, stop". Some of have and returned knowing it is our path to be who and what we are. It is not so easy to turn away from what we must do.
It would be nice for those around us to realize that those that have special gifts need comfort. We also have periods of doubts, loneliness and despair that fills us.
The remedy is out there, we just must wait for it to come to us. We must persevere in what we believe is true. Pull more from within and know deep down that our foundation is not slipping away. It is only a growing period. A time to look at ourselves and what we are really doing. A time of direction showing us that we are not in balance with the guides and forces that we have. They are letting us see what we need to see within ourselves. For it is free will to be the way we are. To give our talent and gift freely to others. We have chosen this way of life for many reasons. The devotion is there, it never left. In giving so much of ourselves to help people we must learn to give back to ourselves, this is the answer from the Gods, Goddesses and Guides.
We will doubt again. We will enter the dark realm of our soul. This is something that aids our path to enlightenment. The true answer is given by the Universe, you just have to listen and hear it. Not ignore it by wrapping yourself up in self pity.
The darkness may be there but there is always a candle to light the way.
Anyone have a match for me?
Psychic Gunslingers: or NAGs
You are asking yourself right about now, “What is a psychic gunslinger"? Loosely put, these are the people that have some type of ability or knowledge and have heard of someone in the Practice that has ability also and have decided to seek them out and test or challenge this person.
Does this really happen? Yes. It may not be the OK Corral but it does happen. These Psychic Gunslingers ride in on their stead (Some prefer cars, busses etc) have their mind set on seeing what the other can or can not do knowing in their heart of hearts that they are weaker than they are. With shields up they proceed to seek this person out. Riding tall in the saddle they find this unsuspecting person. An ambush has been set up (in their own minds of course) and they are ready to dual.
Now mind you the other psychic may or may not be aware that this is taking place. If they are smart they have their own shields in place and set for automatic cruise control. Sometimes those with abilities are not always focusing on what they can do. They may feel a force around them, but they go on about their business. They wait knowing that someone is coming.
The Psychic Gunslinger has found their prey. With fingers on their crystals and hands on their mojo bags, they are prepared for battle. Feigning friendship or interest in the other person, asking questions that lead to nowhere (let me remind you that by this time, the other gunslinger has already figured you out and is ready) smiling and trying not to show their hand to soon. Their way of thinking is that they are the better of the two and they are going to prove it.
The Gunslinger is circling, starting a conversation that leads to magickal abilities and knowledge. Attempting to draw the other out in the open of what they are able to do. Reading, probing the other to see if they can tell if they are up to the fight. They are acting seemingly innocent.
OK, stop the cattle round up and back up. Rein in those horses, dust of the dirt and sit by the campfire. We are not in the Old West. We are in the present with a New Age intelligence. Or are we?
Those New Age Gunslingers, or NAGs as I will call you from here on out, are ridiculous. Yes, I said ridiculous. Those that do things such as this lack intelligence or is it common sense? I have yet to decide which it is as of yet. Oh, you are very scary indeed and ever sop powerful. What do you hope to gain? If you walk into a situation where there are a few M & M ( magickal & mystical) people sauntering around, they already know what you are about. They have read you before you entered their space. They are laughing at what you are about to do and they are prepared as individuals and as a group to show you that there is no need for this behavior. Chances are this is because it is not the first time this has happened. Those individuals or groups that you walk into are not as unprepared as you think. If it is an individual, they knew you were there as soon as you entered their realm and ARE waiting and prepared for you. Trust me, you were spotted. Their scouts saw and or felt you and the smoke signals went out.
Nag’s come in all shapes, sizes and genders. Their arrogance (you read that correctly, arrogance) is their down fall. Which will do them in each and every time. They seek out those they do not know, only heard of and have decided to push for a psychic battle. They wish to prove that they are the “All mighty” Nag and the other will be another notch on their wand.
Well, my dear NAGs, be prepared for the unexpected. Not all those involved in the M & M world wish to have a battle of the dim wits. We do not wish nor have to prove what we can or can not do. Those you may be seeking who have ability or knowledge might be more comfortable with who they are and what they do than you are. Is that the problem? Or is your magickal self esteem at an all time low? Those who have found the balance with their practice have no desire nor need to live up to your petty challenges. Which the word “petty” seems to fit perfectly. They have no need to prove anything and they will teach you a lesson or two in the M & M world if they have to. Are you prepared for this? You better be.
It is beyond this writers thinking, why this behavior takes place. One wonders ( I am the one) what do these NAG’s wish to gain? There are no trophy’s to be won, there is no audience to see this battle. If you have happened into an environment with others of the practice they will know what is going on and they have the home court advantage over you. Or if there is a crowd of mundanes there, they have no idea of what is going on so you lost the “crowd appeal and applauds". There is nothing to gain. If you choose this childlike behavior you may just walk away feeling lower than a coyote crawling under a barb wired fence on its belly.
Put the Psychic bullets away and come in peace. Offer your empty hand in friendship. Call a truce with yourself. The battles of the Old West are long gone. Not all Practitioners need nor want to prove what they are able to do.
Is a challenge or battle so important to you? If it is, then by all means come on out and show yourself. If you do be sure to bring a lot of ammunition.
Mystically Speaking
Have a spirit chasing you? Spell gone bad? Questions on hexing someone? You have come to the right place. Answers to your Magickal & Mystical questions are just a click away. The sky is the limit. Any and all questions will be answered. See what others have written and you’ll see what I am talking about.
These are REAL questions, by real people. (Names have been changed to protect the innocent or not so innocent) I will warn you, answers may not be sugar coated or what you expect to get. They are answered as truthfully as can be answered. I love receiving questions, comments and the likes from our readers. Each week I receive so many that it is hard to choose which to show here. All questions are answered either here or in a personal email by myself.
Here are a few questions that I have received.
Dear Mistress Ravenfyre:: Recently I was asked to join a coven of sorts. They really had some neat things they were doing. The problem is, they said that I would have to buy a membership. I am not a rich guy, to join was $200. I get a card and lifetime membership. I like the group, they are Satanists which I am too. Is this normal? Thanks, JW
Dear JW: I hope this card that you are buying is lamented in gold or at least sterling silver. In order to join most covens there is no fee. Some may ask for group offerings to cover certain costs of the group, BUT nothing like that. If you are signing up with the COS then they have a membership fee, but you get a Satanic Bible and a card. Plus a lot of help on your new found path. They are established in the occult community. If this “coven", which I do not think they are a real coven, says they are affiliated with the COS, check them out and think about it first. When you decide, let me know if you decided to pay for that card. Now, I know I am in the wrong business.
Dear Mistress Ravenfyre: My friend and I are in a fight over this. I say that the spells in Charmed are real and she says they are fake. Do you think they are real? I do.
Dear Charmed Fan: I get a lot of letters from the younger crowd on this show. I have only seen the show a couple of times. Personally, I have to side with your friend. The few that I have seen and read seem a little over dramatized, but it is for TV. Remember, magick is an illusion, not delusion, which if you really think that they are real you are being-delusional. Go to your local book store and flip through the pages of spell books written by notable authors and compare. I think that you will realize that the spells in Charmed are well, charming but not real. I hope you didn’t make a bet.
Mystical Scheduling
Is being on the path in the magickal & mystical world supposed to be so much work? Why are some people determined to rule their daily lives in the training, studies and practices of magickal workings? It appears that they fill their day planners with just that. “Magick and Mystical To Do Lists”.
Planning each and every free moment they have around something that has to be magick. Why? The pursuit of being better. Better than who and what? Training themselves in abilities that they have seen or read about. They wish to also be able to do that. On the road to gain more and more knowledge, which will be stored away for later use. You never know when you may need to know how to bend a candle with the energy from the palms of your hands. It will be great at the next party to wow your friends with.
Why make it harder than it already is? Please do not get me wrong, I am all for gaining more knowledge, practicing with our skills and abilities, yet I rarely hear from those busy mystical beavers that they are going to spend time in devotion to the Gods or Goddesses of their choosing. Have they forgotten what it really is about? Let me give you a few examples of what I am talking about.
What are you planning today?
This is an actual conversation.
Me: What are you doing today?
Friend: Well, I am going to meditate
Me: On what?
Friend: I don’t know, just feel like it.
Me: Hmm, that is good. What else today?
Friend: I thought I would work on my chakras, read the book that I have read for ten times, just to see if I missed anything, research a new magickal ability that I saw on TV, and then meditate some more.
Me: All before lunch?
Friend: Going to try. I have a few things that I would like to do after dinner
Now here is the breaking point with me. I am thinking they are going to do errands, clean, you know the “normal world” things. Am I on the right track? No.
Me: What are the big plans for the eveing then?
Friend: I am going to work on astral traveling, remote view on people that I want to see what they are up to and then clear my chakras
The conversation goes on but I think you get the jest of things here. This is a conversation I have had not once but many, many times with a handful of friends. They spend their time working on these things. What happened to just letting things happen naturally?
While these people are working so hard on these tasks have they gotten any closer to enlightenment? No. They are not working on that. Remember they are working on the smaller things of the Path. Those things that razzle dazzle. Pursuits of higher magick, as I am told.
I decided to compare conversations. I decided to contact 25 friends and associates just to see what they had planned. I did this over a period of 2 weeks. Not exactly a wondrous study, but long enough for me to personally come to a conclusion. In the two week period, 6 of the 25 were on daily schedules of “must do” 1 actually was so engrossed in the scheduling that they forgot to do regular tasks that were important in our day to day lives, like paying bills. The remaining people practiced certain things on either a daily or monthly schedule. I found that 3 rarely meditated, did chakra workings or even did rituals. Yet these 3 did each and every day pay homage to their chosen diety. They worked on the path of enlightenment. Living their daily lives with inner balance and mystical freedom in knowing that inside they were worshiping.
I asked them why they didn’t schedule free time around higher magick. Two of the three laughed at me, and that third I can not put into print what he said. Explaining that they lived the magick and mystical inside, they did practice yet not on a schedule. There were more important things to them than bending a candle flame between their palms. It was the true love and devotion to their chosen paths. You just can’t schedule visions, inspiration and devotion.
In thinking about all these conversations, I did see a pattern. Those that did not schedule their free time with magickal and mystical practices were more comfortable in who and what they have become. Over a period of time these people have graced others with insight into the loving world of our Divine ones. They have striven for a perfection in the enlightenment of spiritualism from within. Focusing on what is really important, balance, love and living the life of those in the Craft. Going with the Universe and what it wishes us to learn and at our own speed. Granting each a skill, an ability or inner knowledge into their world.
I am not saying that we should not practice what we have been given. Just not to the point that it is a full time job.
Let the Universe speak to you. Give in to just “being”.
Servitor Nation
Thought forms, Tulpas, phantoms and servitors.
All names which describe forms that are created by individual magicians and groups. These forms are created by focusing energy, molding it into what the magician (s) wants and needs it to be. These forms can and may be used for protection, healing, information carriers (spies), watchers or warriors. They are task related beings that have been created for specific use or folly. A handy little creature to have around the house or office. Are they real or an illusion? According to the Tibetan Adepts are trained in the creating and using of what they term “Tulpas or Phantoms". These Adepts are able to create thought forms at a blink of an eye. Each one has a specific task and they are able to create many at a time. Creation to them is second nature.
Tibetan Adepts explain that Tulpas become rebellious as a child and a magician and their creation have a great power struggle. During these struggles the magician (s) may become badly hurt or even the worse, be killed. These power struggles are often when they are attempting to dissipate their creations.
Not such a good idea, yet it has to happen sooner or later.
In order to understand the struggle of a magician and their creation, one should take a look at the real life of Alexandria David Neel (1965). She did not believe in thought forms until she in fact created her own.
The features which I had imagined, when building my phantom, gradually underwent a change. The fat, chubby-cheeked fellow grew leaner, his face assumed a vaguely mocking, sly, malignant look. He became more troublesome and bold. In brief, he escaped my control. Once, a herdsman who brought me a present of butter saw the tulpa in my tent and took it for a living lama.
I ought to have let the phenomenon follow its course, but the presence of that unwanted companion began to prove trying to my nerves; it turned into a “day-nightmare". Moreover, I was beginning to plan my journey to Lhasa and needed a quiet brain devoid of other preoccupations, so I decided to dissolve the phantom. I succeeded, but only after six months of hard struggle. My mind-creature was tenacious of life. (1)
The unbeliever became a believer.
A Chaotic View
There are many groups and individuals that employ the usage of servitors in their practice. They spend time in gaining knowledge of their thought forms and what they will be used for. The Chaotics usage of servitors can be said that they create to create. There is no secret in the using of these creatures and it does appear that they do not stake claim as creating is a wondrous act of magick. Chaotics (not all) simply use them at times to use them. A brief explanation by Phil Hines on servitors:
Phil Hine whose interest in his User’s Guide to Servitors is the creation of such beings writes:
“By deliberately budding off portions of our psyche and identifying them by means of a name, trait, symbol, we can come to work with them (and understand how they affect us) at a conscious level."(2)Phil Hine points out:
“It does help to further construct the Servitor’s persona as an individual entity, and is also useful for focusing on when you are recalling the Servitor for reabsorption or reprogramming."(3)
The Tibetans and others will go on to tell that servitors are sent out to do tasks that they have been made to do. They may not come back on time if at all. In times such as this, what happened? There can be many reasons for your servitor not to come back. Some simply dissipate on their own. While others are rogues and have enough mind power that they decide that they are now on their own. One of the worse case scenarios, or at least to me, is to be captured by another knowledgable magician and they either keep it and locate you (beware of this) to cause harm or dissipate it. There are some magicians that find these rogues, capture and retain them for their own uses. Ridding of it when they are completed with the new task.
More than often the magician may die before they get a chance to dissipate the servitor. When this happens the servitor may just die due to lack of feeding. Or here again they live on to do what they were made to do. If the later happens, this may turn into a universal nightmare. The servitor is a rogue and sometimes bully, feeding and wrecking havoc where ever it goes.
Servitors, the term that I use and am most comfortable with are handy creatures to have around in ones magical practice. A tool, is the way that I see it. Just like the mechanic must have a hammer the magician should have a servitor. One may form these as to what we need without the worry of spells, hexes and whatever else there is. Not to mention there are no extra supplies that you need in creating. Storage is simple. No big, bulky items.
The Act of Creation
Creation of a servitor is much like birth. The waiting period is exciting as you are building your new pet. You are visualizing the physical attributes, the personality, the special talents, the task. The list goes on. What can be more exciting than the day you actually are ready to breath life into your servitor? The energy that you place into these creatures is up to you and the purpose of them. The more energy and focus you put into them the more able they are to follow through with the task and service to you. Their power and abilities depend upon you, the magician. Not every person is able to make one. SOme may be able to make these as easy as 1, 2 ,3, while others never can. Energy and imagination. Belief and practice. Entering into the illusion, feeling the illusion, seeing the illusion and being the illusion. Once you know you are able to do this, you are able to create.
You must consider why you want a servitor. The reasons vary from person to person. Some create these to go out and protect family members while others send out to do (I love this one) total evil upon those that have harmed them. Whatever the reason, build your servitor with responsibility. You will be accountable for your creation. Not to mention they do take time and care. Just as some people should not be pet owners, some should not be servitor owners. Negligence and abusing the servitor is an outrage.
The Care and Training of Your Servitor
You have decided that you are going to create a servitor. You have it all visualized, written down and well thought out as to what’s, whens and hows. Now that you have all this, do you know what it takes to care and train them? OOOPPPS, I nearly forgot about that part of creature. These warm, cuddly thought forms are a handful. Despite what the guy down the street says about his being a piece of cake, they need care, feeding and training. Yes, you have to train them. Just as an infant needs to be taught what to do, so you must do with your servitor. Teach it. You gave them the foundation to what they are supposed to do, now you have to step up and work with it. If you just let it sit around they become bored. With this boredom comes either built up energy (and not in a good way) or they simply fade away. They exist to serve you. So isn’t it silly not to let them?
Training and mastering is the hardest part. The magician must be in control at all times with their creation. You are the authority, learn this yourself and show it. You always have to be in control or it will control you. With that, let’s go over a few things that may help or deter you in servitor handling:
1. Fear: Never, ever show fear with your servitor. They will feel it and use it to feed upon. Not a good thing. If you find that you have made this creature and now fear it, dissipate it immediately. Those that show fear should not have a servitor in the first place. You are in power, you are the master of this creature. Now act it. Your servitor may show itself, like a tantrum. Do not back away and let it get away with it (See punishment). Face it, cower it to your will. CONTROL IT at all costs.
2. Feeding: They need to be fed. Not in the same way as you and I, but they do need energy. There is the key word; energy. Some magicians use the blood feed, yet this seems to work for the short term servitors that are created. Feeding these are a simple drop or two on their holding item. I would suggest that your servitor be fed off energy. I know many that feed them off of the energy that they find while being out and about completing their tasks. You may implement this with restrictions such as no elderly, children, animals or other energy that you find offensive. If this is a warrior servitor then the energy may come from your adversary. They need energy to feed upon. Use your imagination but do be kind and feed your new pet. Without proper feedings they become grumpy and unruly. Not a pretty sight to behold. Rule of thumb: A full servitor is a happy servitor.
3. Training: Work with your servitor. You created this creature now do something with it. As I stated before they have been brought into being to serve, so serve they must do. They live to uphold their purpose. You must find the time to work with it so it becomes knowledgable in what it is supposed to do. If you make a “watcher", then send it out to watch someone or something. Bring it back within a certain time and let it fill you with what it watched. You should have placed this connection in it to do so. Learn what it is seeing, hearing and doing. Connection is important and will happen only if you work with it. Letting it do nothing is a waste of good servitude. Start with small excursions and move on with bigger ones. If it fails, send it out again with harsher orders and clearer instructions. Remember they do not think like we do. Simple is best.
4. Rewards: Always reward your servitor when it returns to you. In the beginning even if it fails the task, reward it by feeding. With frequent trips and learning that they earn something good they will reward you with jobs well done. Yes, they like to be treated well and have a pat on the back. Well, if you gave it a back that is. Rewards pay off big time.
5. Intelligence: This isn’t an easy one. The theory of intelligence is divided. Some magicians will tell you that you should make your servitor very intelligent in order to do the best. While others, which I agree with, will say to leave out the ability to use logical thought processes. Individual thoughts are and can be dangerous to the magician. As the servitor ages, so does their thoughts. They begin to think on their own. They will rebel against the magician due to the fact that they have their own thoughts. Give them the power of slight reasoning and reaction. Specific action such as “if there is a psychic attack or danger, attack/protect without provocation". No intelligence means the magician has a higher chance of remaining in control. To sum this up, they should not be allowed to think on their own. They should always be able to know when and how to act (defend) but not have their own individual thoughts.
6. Time Limits: Here again we are at a road that is split. Some will say never keep a servitor for longer than 1-3 months while others have no time limit at all. Of course the longer the servitor is around the more chance they have at developing thought processes. If the magician has remained in control throughout the time, no matter how long, keep it around. The longer you are around your servitor the more you both become comfortable and become a team. They can be dependable and very loyal to their masters the longer they are around. You do have the other side with the extent of time they grow bored of you and what tasks placed in front of it. It no longer wishes to be controlled and you have a battle. These are terrible occurrences for the magicians. Be wary of long term servitors. They are manageable but they are more of a handful for the timid magician.
7. Learn by Trial and Error: Exactly as I wrote it. Learn as you go and so will your servitor. One last note on the longevity of servitors. I have had both; short and long term servitors. I prefer the long term to the short term. I have a working relation of loyalty and trust with my long termers. I am able to see what they offer easier. Short termers are just that, short terms. Useful for small jobs and easy to dissipate.
8. Punishment: They have to learn when they have not accomplished what you sent them out to do. Explain why they are being punished. No, you can’t spank them but you can ground them. No outings is the worst thing there is for a servitor. They do not like boredom. Handing out this punishment teaches them to try harder next time. If they become unruly, ground them. Give them nothing to do. They learn quickly. Behave and be free. Be bad and stay in. Much like a teenager at the age of dating. Take the astral car away from them.
9. Arrogance: Just because you are able to create servitors does not mean that you are “God or God Like". Keep your ego in check. Your arrogance will be your downfall. Either you or your servitor will get into trouble due to your thinking that you are better than those around you. About this time those that have no idea as to what I have been talking about is thinking that these thought forms are not real or fragments of imagination. That may very well be the case but it’s not. Many psychics and those that are sensitive to energy or spirits will be able to see these servitors that are created. Those that are not used to creations may just think that it is a shimmer and ignore it. Some may even try to communicate with it. The servitor will be seen by those prepared to see it.
The first time my significant other saw my main servitor, he was put off slightly as to what it was. He described it to me fully. Well, as fully as he was allowed. I had not ever told him about my small functional army of servitors. The next time he saw my pet, he saw a different side of it. While attempting to astral travel to visit me he was met with my pet in half full sentry personality. Making it known that my significant other was not entering in my space at that time. It was funny and something to remember for years to come. Was it an illusion? No. Was it a servitor doing its job? Yes.
Servitors have been called demons. I guess in a way they are. It is the creator that is a demon in my way of thinking. If you make it mean and evil, there must be a part of you that is the same way. Since they are called upon to do tasks, you might say the resemble demons. Who is to say for sure? It is up to the individual magician as to what they think they truly are.
In conclusion, I see no harm in creating servitors to be task related. They are not for everyone and I would not wish everyone to have them either. They are tools of our trade. Not every magician can handle the tools which is no shame on them. It is another case of using knowledge that we have obtained. Using it responsibly.
When I have magicians visit one of the first things that I say to them and they know it is a tried and true law: Servitors remain outside in the designated area created for them. Often you will hear one magician look at another and ask “One of yours?” To me this is a common statement of fact.
Many will read this and laugh. Their laughter will be from discomfort of belief that these creatures exist, doubts and fears. It will all be an illusion.
While they are thinking about the illusion, I will be creating another servitor.
Next week: How to create a servitor
(1) The Creation of Thoughtforms and Phantasms
by Alexandra David-Neel
Magic and Mystery in Tibet, 1967;
© University Books Inc. 1965
(2) Phil Hines:User’s Guide to Servitors
The Vampyric Culture
When one hears the word “Vampire” they automatically see in their minds eye a character with long white fangs, black cape, being able to change into a bat. Not to mention the tearing of the flesh at the neck, leaving their prey lifeless, drained of all blood. Whether it is a scene that is horrid or even portrayed as “erotic” the same vision is there: Blood Drinker.
Not all of these Vampryes are in fact blood drinkers or even use blood in their rituals of today. They have it appears the same beliefs as the Wiccans in the Rede (Harm None). Theirs is a world that is ruled by the night. Or is it?
I have been prompted by an associate of mine to attempt to educate the reading audience on being a Vampyre, religious beliefs and even a little of the structure. I am by no means an expert. As I have sat in on Vampyric meetings, been acknowledged as a “fledgling” and understand that most Vampryes are just as normal as the Wiccan, the Pagan and yes, even the Chaotic. What I will present here is not all and absolute. Please remember as with all religious and spiritual groups there are “bad” apples that ruin the apple sauce. Be open minded to their ways is all I ask at this point.
Belief Structures: Do they have any?
Yes, as a matter of fact they do. There are many yet I will only focus on two that seem to be the most highly respected and circulated in the Vampyre communities. While my doing so, it will only be an overview.
There were what is called Children of the Angels. These are your Vampryes. They are believed to be born from the Nephilim’s. These Nephilims are the demi-human beings who were seduced by the Angels. This was told in the Enoch I. Some of the Nephilists believe that the vampyric condition is actually genetically traceable to these other world parents.
The second theory or belief is that the vampyre actually represents a higher kind of being which came down and intermingled with humans. Nephilites of the second order say that Vampyres have this experience because they are in fact more spiritual than most other beings, which they have a higher vibration with their spirit which somehow or the other helps to burn their bodies energy out quicker. Which will make some Nephilites to feed upon blood while others will only feed upon life energy of others. Most seem to incorporate blood into their magick and rituals.
These Vampyres are witches, Wiccans and Neo Pagans which are practioners of magick. They rely upon the natural abilities that they have within their selves. Using energy , manifestations and other psychic abilities and knowledge. They practice with moral and ethical responsibilities. It is as I stated earlier the “bad apples” that give them the terrible stigma that still hangs over them. They believe and uphold the Rede. They are responsible practioners and members of our society.
The modern day Vampyre does little spell working as their counter parts the Wiccans, Witches and N.Pagans. Using visualization to manifest their goals and wants. Using the energy from the outside forces. Which is used in a manner of focusing and then projecting their own energy in a quick and pointed manner. They are not to be confused with the “Psychic Vampyre” that feeds upon those around them either knowingly or unknown to them. Although the Vampyre will use the energy from the outside as a feeding and for magick. Hard to explain that they are not one and the same, do to they sound the same.
Vampyric Spirits
The main Spirit that abounds is Vetala. This is a type of Vampyre that is a very disturbed, angry and well nasty spirit of the deceased. Who is this Vetala? This is, or shall I say was a person that did not receive the funeral rites as they should have been given. They are trapped between life and after life, the Vetalia will show its hostility towards anyone or anything that it comes in contact with. It will go after humans in ways that will turn their hair white or worse yet kill them. They prey on the unborn also to satisfy their hostility. It is said that they will also live in the dead bodies of animals. While living in their bodies they will use their super natural power to have the animal act as if it is still alive. Not a very nice spirit to have around the house.
Vampyric Gods and Goddesses
The same as their Pagan brothers and sisters the Vampryes do have Gods and Goddesses that they devote themselves to. Each of course is the darker attribute of the Pagan/Wiccan Gods and Goddesses but they still worship them with the same love and devotion.
The most popular God it appears is Set and Caine(Caine is not actually a God but you’ll see why later he is paid homage to)
We all know who the Egyptian God Set is so I will skip the details and move right into why he is one of the main Gods chosen for the Vampryes. Set had a ritual that of death and re birth that allowed the soul to become immortal. He chose 72 people to travel with him taking this voyage to eternity as undying spirits which would be eternally renewed. They would die and be re-born once more. Hence the vampyric state was said to be a side effect of the ritual. I do believe that this is the romantic version.
The Setians, believe that Vampyrism is a spiritual condition and only represents immortality as the soul is immortal and capable of reincarnation. Setians feed mainly on life energy and generally, do not partake in blood rituals, such as the drinking of blood to make their lives go on longer. They do have modern rituals that they use mock blood ceremonies(i.e. red wine).
Caine is considered to be the Father of the Vampryes. He is in fact a Demi-God and not a God form. One reason that Caine is held in such a high esteemed position is due to the fact that he was the first man that was a murderer. God punished him by making him walk the earth for eternity, not ever to die. He was cursed with immortality. Although there is no references nor proof that Caine was in fact a true vampyre his followers, the Cainites instill the drinking of blood in their rituals. Often using the life energy feeding process as well as the blood drinking.
Now, we have taken a look at the Gods, what about the Goddesses? The counter part to Caine is claimed to be Lilith. Although this is a debatable duo. There are other claims that the male counter part is in fact Gelal. Gelal is a man like bird for those that are wondering who and what he was.
Lilith, is known to feed off of young males and even infants, drinking of their blood until they are dead. Many followers of Lilith partake in the blood drinking and often try to use the blood into their rituals.
Hecate is associated with vampryes due to her drinking of blood. She is known as the Dark Wise Crone that leaves the Underworld at night to go to cross roads and drink blood from travelers to feed her hunger. Often times there were offerings placed at cross roads to ward of Hecate. These blood offerings were in hopes of satisfying her so she would not hunt and kill humans. Did this work? Probably not, but who knows. Seems to me warm, fresh blood would be better than a cup of cold, stale blood any day.
Hecate had daughters that were also blood drinkers. They were the Empusai. These daughters would come from the Underworld at night and hunt for travelers that were alone and loved to prey on shepherds. Let’s just say they had their mothers . They were well known as shape shifters and would change accordingly to get to their meal. The Empusai had one leg that was a donkeys and the other was made of bronze. Beautiful, sexy, they could always get their meal, sorry, man. The most well known vampyric daughter of Hecate was Empusa.
Let me not forget to add Hera, the Queen of Gods, to this famed crew. She in a fit of jealousy took vengeance on a lover of Zeus by turning her into a creature of the night. This poor woman ends up eating her own children and then drinking her blood. No wrath like a woman scorned that is for sure.
There are more of these Gods and Goddesses but these were the most common.
The Vampryes live their lives with balance. Balancing light and dark. They celebrate the Vernal and Autumn Equinoxes which are the days in which days of light and dark are equal in nature. These times it seem greatly effect the Vamprye with their psychic and physical health. They tend to focus on the balance which they need at all times.
After reading this I hope that the image of the fanged monster who hides in the corners late at night stalking its prey is diminished, There is no fear to be had from them to those that are not of their clans. If you still need to have an image of a vampyre, how about Spike from Buffy?
They do not kill for blood nor do they hunt their prey.
They are practioners, the same as I am a practioner and you are a practioner. They are our brothers and sisters and should be accepted and respected for what they believe in.
Simply put they are people with a different taste for magick.
Ref:housescarletmoon
A Beltane Celebration
Each year Beltane is a widely celebrated Sabbat by Pagans. The event as most know is celebrated On April 31st-May 1st. This celebration is the marking of the coming of summer.
The characters of the event are commonly known as the May Queen and the Green Man. Each of which representing fertility and growth.
As the winter is coming to its end the May Queen crowns the Green Man. Which is the showing that winter is coming to its end and the Green Man is shedding his winter attire and putting on the spring clothing that he will be now wearing. The May Queen and the Green Man are preparing for their wedding. Those in attendance of this wedding will proceed to wildly dance in celebration.
The key influence of this ritual is the element “fire". An arch way of fire is built to represent the gateways between the early world and the spirit world. Usually in Pagan celebrations, those called Torch Bearers which carry the flames which are used for purifying and the lighting of the arches. The torch bear is a very sacred representation, and those that are chosen for this duty will be dressed in all black with faces also painted in black. This way all one sees is the fire.
In this Sabbat there are many other players that seem to be overlooked. Some of which many have not heard of but here they are.
The Blue man is the symbol of the road for Celtic Warriors
Green Man: The May Queen’s male consort is sometimes called the May King. He is known by many names. Some call him Jack-in-the-Green, Robin Hood or the woodland faery Puck.
The Red Men: The Red Men represent mischief makers, Pan-like figures who live for the moment without a care in the world or inhibitions.
White Woman: The White Woman (and her hand maidens) protect the May Queen and attend to her later in the evening. They are the order and discipline in the face of the Red Men’s chaos.
In most of the celebrations the costumes and the likes are taken from the Celts and the Scottish folklore in order to reinact the procession.
No matter how elaborate or simply you plan to celebrate Beltane this year have an enlightening experience. Remember that since this celebration is directly related to fire, use fire safety and common sense when handling fire.
Ref: BBC
Photos: 2002 Festival Beltane in Edinburgh
Lady Day
Lady Day or commonly known as Ostara and Eostre is this March 20th. Celebrated by other religious cultures as Easter, on Sunday, March 27th.
This is the time when the light and dark are in balance. Yet the light is over taking the dark. The light is gaining strength and power. This is the time to celebrate the balance of all things. Balance from light to dark, life and death, female and male, not to mention the balance that comes from within you. Spring brings new birth. The new birth of the awakening of the plants, trees, animals and even the human population. After the darkness of winter it is a time of rejoicing and celebration of the fresh new light that is upon us.
A Special Day Event
What to do on this special day? Take a walk in a field full of flowers, or if this is not possible, walk in your own gardens. If you are an urban dweller, look upon your plants that you have. Let your mind wander and try to connect with your plants. If you are lucky enough to have a near by field, or garden, pick some flowers. Ask the plants permission first waiting for a sign of permission, then thank the plant for allowing you to pluck it from the earth that has nurtured it. See if you can find any mystical or magical meaning behind your pickings. Meditate on them and see what comes to you. You will be surprised at what you may learn, not only about yourself but the plant and why you chose it. Or it chose you.
This is something of importance. This is a ritual that may be accomplished in the solitude within yourself. A private time of ritual and celebration that may continue in practice for years to come. A time to appreciate the new growth and season. To gain balance of harmony in nature.
Let us not forget that this is a time of planting. Plant some seeds in a pot to grow inside to brighten your home. Plant in your garden. Give back to nature as it has given to you. As you are tending to your planting, you will find that you are becoming at peace with yourself. It is a relaxing time. Let your mind wander, letting thoughts flow to you. Feel the regeneration of your inner being happen. Thank the Gods and Goddesses for this time. For they are watching and smiling upon you. Watching you painstakingly give new seeds that chance to be born to brighten our world.
Here are some useful information to use as reference in your workings
Colors
Green, Yellow, Pink and all pastels.
Symbols
Eggs, New Moon, Butterflies
Deities
Youthful and Virgile God and Goddess
Stones
Aquamarine, Rose Quartz, Moonstone
Ritual Oils
Lotus, Ginger & Magnolia
Food
During this special day you may wish to eat the foods that are related try a mixture of seeds, like sunflower, pumpkin, sesame seeds and pine nuts. Salads and food items like sprouts are another appropriate food to add to your menu as they are green and leafy vegetables.
St. Patricks Day Facts & Folly Part 2
Still thristy for facts and folly? Here are a few more found.
The Shillelagh
You have seen them in movies or pictures with the Irish walking down the winding roads with these in their hands. These are the “Shillelagh’s", or commonly known as the Irish walking stick. These are known to the Irish as being made of oak. The literal definition of the Shillelagh is “oak club".
The Shamrock
The shamrock closely resembles the four leaf clover in the way in which the leaves are grown. There are only three leaves to this plant. The Shamrock is commonly known as the symbol of Ireland.
March 17th is said to be the day of St. Patrick’s death.
St.Patrick was a missionary who converted the people in Ireland to Christianity. The people proclaimed that they did not have a full understanding of the Trinity. St. Patrick leaning over plucking a shamrock from the glade presented it to the people explaining the Trinity as “The Father", “The Son” and the “holy Ghost” with the leaves as each part of the trinity. It has from that day forward the symbol that is held most highest in Ireland.
Leprechauns
Always after me Lucky Charms is the one of the first expressions that comes to mind in thinking about these little fellows. The thought of Lucky, the cute and zany little guy bouncing through flowers and well, cereal. What a sweet picture. That isn’t really the case of Leprechauns. Let’s explore the folklore of the Leprechauns.
Legend & Folklore
Leprechauns are solitary creatures. Often times they are ugly, small in stature, with broad bulky faces. Imagine a small boy of 10-11 years old, and that is about as tall as they get. Their faces are dry looking and wrinkling (much like a prune or dried apple). Their eyes though are bright and shiny with a look of mischief glinting in them. They are always up to something. They move rapidly and with grace, much to the surprise of those that actually come across one. Thinking that since they look the way they do they would be slow and easily caught, not the case!
Like said earlier, they are loners. They tend to stay away from men and even their own tribes. Leprechauns love to make shoes, so this is how they wile away their days and nights. Many of these little chaps carry a shoe and hammer with them at all times.
The leprechaun most certainly is one of the richest creatures due to they are in charge of guarding the ancient treasure left by the Danes. They bury this treasure in pots which resemble little cauldrons. This is one of the many reasons they stay away from humans. In fear they will loose this treasure. If caught by a human he must relinquish this great wealth if he is promised his freedom in return. But don’t let this fool you , they hold the cards and always will have a loop hole in keeping their treasure. You just can not out smart them. If caught by a human the lore goes on to tell, that the leprechaun carries two pouches, one with a silver shilling, a magical coin that returns to his pouch each time it is given out. The other pouch carries a gold coin, in which he tries to use as bribing his way out of these trickery times when caught. Now, once this coin is taken by the human or even another leprechaun it will turn to ash or leaves once he has given it away.
A word to the wise. NEVER let him out of your sight. They can vanish as quick as the wind. Now you see them, now you don’t!
There are in fact two different groups of leprechaun families. The first group being the Leprechaun which I have given you a little detail on and the second family group are the “Cluricauns. These Cluricauns are really more mischievous than Leprechauns. These are the group that will come into your home when it is dark and steal or “borrow” anything they want. They create havoc and chaos in homes during the night. They especially like to raid your wine cellars and larders. They harness up sheep and other farm animals and ride them all over the countryside at night. They have been spotted with chickens pulling their wagons!
The Leprechaun has been well known as Ireland’s national fairy. This title was used mainly in the North Leinster area of Ireland.
So the next time you are gazing at that rainbow, or happen upon a little shoe cobbler, think twice about capturing him. You might not get the riches you wanted. Only getting more than you can handle.
One last note: There are only male leprechauns. There are no recorded female leprechauns!
From all of us at Mystic Witch
May you be in heaven half hour before
The devil knows you are dead
–Old Irish Proverb–
St. Patrick’s Day Facts & Folly
Kiss Me I’m Irish (No, really I am!), the of the Irish and other sayings will abound on St. Paddy’s Day. I couldn’t find the pot of gold, but I did find some facts and folly to entertain you with. They are magically delicious.
The Four Leaf Clover
Have you ever seen a clove patch and wonder if there just might be one of those illusive 4-leaf clovers hiding in the bunch. Now, you may have actually found one or two in your lifetime, did they actually bring you good luck as the expression goes? Maybe not in the long run, but for that fleeting moment when you did find the 4-leaf clover you felt lucky. Maybe that is what the real meaning is. One will never know. I did run into some facts about the clover that I found silly yet interesting.
Facts
The four leaf clover is the accepted symbol of good luck. This acceptance is worldwide. There is a legend that Eve, actually carried with her a four leaf clover upon leaving the Garden of Eden. Was she luck afterwards? To bad she didn’t find it before she left!
The White Clover was held high in the eyes of the Celts of Wales. They believed that this clover would ward off “evil spirits", thus they carried with them as a charm or talisman.
The Druids considered the clover (4) a sign of good luck. The mystery of the 4 leaf clover plant still remains today, as this plant does not produce all four of the leaflets. This is why it is so hard to find them!
Folly
One leaf is for Hope
The second for Faith
The third for Love
The fourth for Luck
Sir John Melton said of the 4-Leaf Clover: “If a man walking in the fields find any four leaved grass, he shall in a small while after find some good thing".
It is said that finding a four leaf clover on St. Patrick’s Day will bring the bearer twice the luck
The Blarney Stone
Ah, I think everyone has heard about Kissing the Blarney Stone. Yet, not everyone knows what it is or looks like. The above picture is what it looks like as you are laying on your back, bent backwards kissing the stone. You have to hold onto the bars that are shown so you do not fall down the side of the building.
The stone is set in the wall of “The Blarney Castle". Located in the village of Blarney. This castle was constructed in or around the year of 1446 by “Cormac Laidhiv McCarthy, who was commonly known as Lord of Muskerry.
Magic Abounds
The legend is just that-A legend. One that nobody is really sure of where it came from or how it started. It starts like this: It is said that the King had saved an old woman from drowning. The crone was so appreciated that she cast a spell upon the wall so that when kissing the stone under the spell the king and others would have the ability to speak sweetly and be convincing in all they said. Of course, being an old crone with a sense of humor she made it in a place that was not easily reached. The stone is between the castle wall and the parapet.
Lá Fhéile Pádraig
St. Patrick driving the snakes out of Ireland
I, Patrick, the sinner, am the most rustic and the least of all the faithful . . . had for my father Calpornius, a deacon, a son of Potitus, a priest, who belonged to the village of Bannavem Taberniae
Who was St Patrick?-Historical Background
St. Patrick was not Irish. NOT Irish you say? Then why do we associate this Saint with Ireland and the Irish? Here I will try to give you the answer to your how, why and when’s.
The Beginning
Maewyn Succot was born in the year 373 A.D. in the British Isles, near the city of Dumbarton, which is located in Scotland. His childhood was not an easy one. During his youth the Roman empire was falling. The Romans unable to protect their distant lands could not remain in control of what was going on. Travel was risky for those that ventured out across the Irish Sea. Raiders took control of the sea and enslaved those that they took captive. Patrick was one of those captives. He was taken as a slave around the age of 16, where he worked for 6 years as a shepherd. During this time he had little to no faith in God. He was disobedient, not taking heed of any of the laws that were in place during this time set by the church.
During is time of being a slave, he did eventually turn to prayer. He learned the Irish language and ways during his time spent being a captive. He began to pray with vigor and relish. Using his times in prayers instead of being disobiedient.
Patrick studied for 12 laborious years at the monastery in Gaul. Maewyn, now changed his name to Patrick or the Latin form Patricius, which in Latin means: “Well Born". During this time he claims that God touched him and he knew he was meant to spread the word. He moved up the ranks of the church firstly by being an ordained deacon, next a priest to finally the second bishop to Ireland.
Patrick was an extensive traveler. The locations he traveled to which seemed to be the places that held his interest the most were those of, Wales, Scotland, Ireland and Cromwall, just to name a few. All the while traveling he spread the word of the gospel.
Where Druids Rule
During this time, Ireland was governed by Paganism. The Druids, which governed many of the regions were attempting to unite the tribes and regions under one belief system. They knew how important it was to have organization in the regions. They were, and doing a grand job, making steps towards uniting the tribes and regions of Ireland into “One common belief".
Ireland, had numerous Gods and Goddess for each tribe and region. The Druids seeing this and knowing that the Gods and Goddess that were worshiped were only different by the names that the particular region gave to them. The Gods and Goddesses had the same attributes simply under numerous names. Realizing this, the Druids knew if they could organize and make a unity belief under one house this would aid in the fighting and protecting of their lands. Even rival tribes were coming to the same conclusion. A structure was being devised by the Druids for such common beliefs. A purely solid foundation, which was working for all. Working maybe too well for the Church.
Christianity and Patrick Arrives
With Christianity spreading like wildfire throughout Ireland, Patrick was sent to Ireland to spread the word. Their word. During Patricks travels, he went to Tara. This is where Patrick meets the Druids. Upon arriving at Tara he began nullifying all Pagan rites and rituals. With his preaching he converted many of the warrior chieftain’s and royalty, also their subjects, which were in the thousands. Patrick baptized these new converts in the Holy Well’s. This Holy Well still has his name embedded upon it.
Conversion
In order to convert the people and have the Druids and their followers conform to the new beliefs, the Church had to establish their “laws” into action. The first and foremost law that was placed into enforcement was the taking away of the Pagan holidays. These holidays were revised accordingly to become Christian holidays with a still Pagan flair. Of course, to this present day we still see Pagan symbolism in the holidays and festivals that are Christian based.
The Pagans and Druids that did not conform to these new beliefs and went against the laws either fled the country or took their religions underground. Many of these old Pagan beliefs became “secret societies and religions". The Celtic Druids, still trying to remain in force were continually arresting Patrick Each time he was arrested he found a way in which to escape. Patrick proclaimed that the power of God showed him the way out of these imprisonments.
Driving out of the Snakes
No, Ireland was not infested by snakes. In fact Ireland has very few snakes in their region (according to some sources). It is well known that the Serpent is a major symbol to the Pagan religion. What were the Snakes that were driven out? The Church used the snakes to depict the end of the Pagans and their religions. The snakes were “Pagans". With the help of Patrick the end of the Pagan beliefs and practices came about in Ireland. The Driving out of the snakes became symbolically known as the driving out of Paganism.
30 Years of Gospel
For 30 years Patrick converted a massive number of Pagans to Christianity. He taught the Celts Christianity in the ways they could understand. He mixed Paganism with the christianity beliefs, but made sure that the people knew that Christianity was the correct way to pray. Thus, Celtic Christianity was established. Patrick established monestaries, schools and churches over the 30 year time span. All of which he gave credit unselfishly to the power of God. Never taking any credit for himself.
The End Nearing
Patrick towards the end of his life was growing tired. He knew that his time of death was nearing. In his final months and days it is said that Patrick spent his time in Armagh. All the while he prayed to his God. Patrick prayed till he passed on.
The time of his death was on or near March 17th.
Why Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day?
St. Patrick’s Day was originally designed to coincide with the Pagan Holiday, Ostara. The thinking was that St. Patrick’s Day would overcome and take the place of this festival of the Pagans. But remaining true worshiper of Paganism, this did not happen. Ostara remains one of the important holidays in Pagan worship. The day in which rebirth is celebrated. Pagans celebrate this rebirth during the Spring Equinox which this year falls on March 20th.t
Power of Prayer
What can we learn by St. Patrick and what he did? The power of prayer. St. Patrick started having little to no faith in God or a formal religious belief system. Moving through the years he found his God. Turning this love of the Divine one towards doing seemingly good things for the people. Maybe, the conversion process of “forcing out” the Pagans was accomplished in the wrong manner, but we have no power to change this historical occurrence. We can never the less use what St. Patrick focused on. Believing and having a never ending love towards God In whatever form or name you have chosen. St. Patrick always gave credit to his God for the power and the events, good or bad, in his life. We all could use this approach. With trust, love, devotion to our own personal Gods and Goddess they will show us the way to enlightenment with every step that we take towards them.
Lastly, we can learn from history. Trying not to persecute those of different religious beliefs than ours. This writer would like other religions to re-read historical religious events and understand that no religion is better than the other. Each is important in their own structure. For aren’t they all the same? The words may be presented differently to the worshiper, but the bottom line is the belief of the Divine One.
Story of Eros and Psyche
ca. 1560; Niccolò dell’Abate (Italian, ca. 1509-71); Oil on canvas; 99.7 x 92.7 cm (39 1/4 x 36 1/2 in.); Founders Society Purchase, Robert H. Tannahill Fund; 65.347
Psyche was the daughter of an unknown king. Her beauty was so extraordinary that men would worship her instead of courting her. Aphrodite then, out of jealousy for her beauty, sent Eros to make Psyche fall in love with some unworthy man while an oracle said that Psyche must wed a horrible monster on the top of a mountain. Psyche then was first exposed, and then carried by the wind to a castle. But Eros, instead of obeying Aphrodite, fell in love with Psyche and visited her every night, although never allowing Psyche to see him. However, following the advices dictated by jealousy that her two sisters gave her, Psyche managed to know who her lover was. Eros then deserted her, and when their love was discovered, Psyche suffered the wrath of Aphrodite, who mistreated her in many ways. However, having surpassed several difficulties, the lovers could reunite, and Psyche was reconciled with Aphrodite, and made immortal
Story of Eros and Psyche
Little rascal
The Eros who met Psyche is the son of Aphrodite, a very wicked boy as some say, lacking all manners, and spending his time in running all night long from building to building, and with his arrows breaking up respectable homes.
Psyche worshipped for her beauty
Psyche was one of the three daughters of an otherwise unknown king and his queen. All three sisters were very beautiful, but Psyche’s beauty was beyond description. People would talk about her as if she were Aphrodite incarnated as a mortal. Her beauty was such that she was considered to be a new Goddess of Love, and as her Fame spread many came from distant countries to witness this extraordinary wonder.
Aphrodite neglected
As a result, the shrines of Aphrodite were empty and her festivals neglected, and instead of visiting the temples of this sweet goddess, people made long pilgrimages to see the greatest beauty of their time, the princess Psyche. In this way they started worshipping Psyche, scattering flowers in her path, and addressing her by the titles that belong to lovely Aphrodite.
Ridiculous cult
The goddess disliked this state of affairs, as there is nothing more ridiculous than when a mortal is regarded and honoured as a god. For, however brilliant a human may be, there is no way of comparing a mortal, who walks upon the dirty mud of earth, with the subtle delicacy of those who inhabit Heaven.
Possible remedy
So, as so many had lost their minds worshipping a mortal as a god, Aphrodite thought the time had come to put things right, and calling her darling son Eros, she instructed him to shoot his arrows against the girl, and thus make her fall in love with some kind of accomplished outcast of a man, the worst specimen of the human race he could find, lacking rank, fortune, character, intelligence, courage, and whatever good quality one could think of, and being in the most perfect state of degradation.
Psyche feels miserable
During all this time Psyche got not satisfaction at all, because men, instead of falling in love with her in a plain way, stared at her, praised her, and paid her all kinds of honours, without ever daring to make love to her. So while her elder sisters were married to kings, the mass of admirers and worshippers were still treating her like a wonderful statue. And because of this absurd situation, Psyche, who had remained single, started feeling miserable, and began to hate that same beauty of hers, which had turned her into an object of cult.
The Oracle
Even her father started fearing that this inconvenient cult might upset the gods, which inevitably happens when humans transgress the limits of their nature, acting as if they were someone else. So he went to the Apollo’s Oracle at Miletus, and there he asked where he was to find a husband for her daughter, given that all men showed such an abnormal behaviour. But the answer he received was of no consolation, since the Oracle declared that Psyche was to marry a horrible monster on the top of a mountain.
The Day of the Wedding
Following the Oracle, a procession, looking more like a funeral cortege than a bridal train, was then formed to lead Psyche to the top of the mountain, and there they left her weeping and trembling until the West Wind (Zephyrus 1), suddenly springing up, lifted her off the ground, and having carried her down into a valley, laid her gently on a bed starred with flowers. There she stopped crying and fell asleep, and when she awoke she walked towards a near-by wood, and in its very heart she found a palace, so wonderfully built that she knew at once that this was the residence of a god.
The first night
When she had walked among the many wonders treasured in this fabulous castle, a voice coming from nowhere informed her that the castle was hers, and gently invited her to rest in the bedroom while she awaited her bath and the wedding banquet.
When later the banquet was over, she went to her bedroom, and while she lay awake in the dark she heard the gentle whisper of her unknown husband, as he was climbing into bed with her. But after having made love to her, her husband left her, just before daybreak. And in this way night after night her husband paid her visit, without ever showing himself.
Family Concern & Warning
Meanwhile, Psyche’s parents and sisters were wasted in grief and tears believing her dead, and the sisters reunited with the parents in order to console them. And when her sisters started searching for her, the unknown husband warned Psyche not to listen or look at them if she wanted to avoid utter ruin and unhappiness.
Psyche’s anxiety
But when she again saw herself left alone by this lovely but still mysterious husband, she felt like a prisoner in the wonderful palace, even forbidden to relieve the minds of her worried sisters. And as she knew nothing better than crying, and at the same time said that she would die unless she were allowed to see her lovely sisters, her unknown husband consented. However, he warned her that her sisters were evil-minded women, and would try to make her discover how he looked like; and that if she ever agreed to this it would be the end of her happiness, and she would lose him for ever. On hearing this Psyche, calling him “soul of my soul” and thanking him many times, said that she never would consent to such a thing. So he, overcome by her and his own love, however reluctantly, promised to arrange the visit of her sisters, and as always disappeared at daybreak.
Psyche’s sisters come to visit her
Next day the West Wind brought Psyche’s sisters from the top of the mountain to the castle, and as the unknown husband had said, they started to feel miserably jealous as soon as they arrived and saw the wonderful abode of Psyche. And as it is the case in such circumstances, they thought that Psyche was really not worth such goddess-like prosperity, for themselves, if they had the chance, they would know better than her how to make proper use of such masses of jewels, embroidered dresses, floors made of gems and set in gold, and all other marvels.
Psyche’s sisters feel miserable too
So, having been confronted with such tremendous wealth, the sisters now saw their own husbands, not as kings as they really were, but rather as beggars, and their own palaces they judged to be shabby homes; and having received presents from Psyche, they decided not to show them to anybody, and not even mention that Psyche was still alive. For through such a simple device they intended to deprive Psyche of the pleasure of being rich, because, what pleasure is to be found in possessions, they reasoned, if nobody knows about it ? But for the future they agreed to think of a way of making this proud Psyche a little bit more humble, and so to say, bring her back to reality.
New visit, new warning
The god knew that a storm was about to come with the sisters’ next visit, and he once more warned Psyche not to speak a word about him, as the sisters were scheming for their destruction and would finally urge the now pregnant Psyche to look at her husband’s face. But as Psyche insisted, and now she even argued that it would be bad for the baby if she felt unhappy, the god, out of love, consented again, and as before disappeared at daybreak.
Sowing Doubt
When the sisters paid a new visit, they reminded Psyche of Apollo’s oracle, and carefully put into her mind that she was perhaps lying all nights with a poisonous snake. And as doubt became the master of Psyche’s mind, the sisters found her ready to receive their bold instructions: to prepare a lamp and a knife for the night and to wait for her husband’s sleep, and then, with the light to assist her, plunge the knife in her husband’s neck and cut off his head.
Preparing crime
Psyche, determined to follow the instructions, went back to her room, and like anybody fostering such intentions, her mind was like a storm. For this way of solving troubles never fails to create even greater worries from the very beginning. But the course of action had been decided, and when the moment came she uncovered the lamp and let its light shine on the bed.
Well done! But no need for the murderous knife! For there was no poisonous snake, but the sweet and beautiful god gently sleeping. Psyche could now not stop staring at his beauty. Examining his weapons, she pulled an arrow out of the quiver, and on touching the point with his finger to try its sharpness, she pressed too hard and pierced the skin, and out came a drop of blood. This is is how Psyche was wounded by the love weapons of Eros, falling desperately in love with him, forgetting everything, and letting the lamp drop on the god’s shoulder, who awakening spread his wings and flew away without a word. But as Psyche had seized his leg, Eros, flying down, returned her to the ground, and there explained to her how he had disobeyed his mother Aphrodite and fallen in love with her, and how he now would be flying away from her, which happened immediately.
Psyche’s requital
And this is how Psyche paid back the bad advices she had received. For first of all she went wandering in the woods, but later she came to a city, where her elder sister was queen of a “shabby” kingdom. When Psyche met her sister the queen, she told her how she had discovered Eros lying in her bed, and how he, coming to his senses because of the drop of scalding oil, had called her wicked, saying that he would divorce her and marry her elder sister instead. So, on hearing those splendid news, Psyche’s sister rushed off to her “shabby” husband and king, and said that she had to travel home at once because her parents were dead. Having then arrived to the top of the mountain, she called for Eros and the West Wind, and taking a leap, she cast herself down and was destroyed by the rocks which cut her to pieces. And exactly the same thing happened to the other sister.
Psyche wanders, Eros is sick, and the world decays
In the meantime, Psyche went on travelling, looking for Eros, who was in no country but in Heaven lying in bed and suffering from the love-disease. But as a result of this the world had become ugly and dull because as Pleasure, Grace, and Wit had now disappeared from the surface of the earth, nobody cared for their children, or for their friends and lovers, and everybody found even disgusting to show any kind of affection.
Aphrodite intervenes
So when Aphrodite learned from a gull that this disaster was the outcome of her son’s love pains, not for a Muse or another goddess, but for a mortal woman, who besides had been her rival because of her extraordinary beauty, she was really upset, and coming back to Heaven after witnessing the miserable state of earth, she threatened Eros with taking his weapons away from him and giving them to someone else, covering him with all sorts of reproaches.
Runaway Wanted
Most of all Aphrodite wished now to catch the runaway princess who would not acknowledge she had a mistress in the goddess of love, punish her, and reestablish order and affection on earth, along with the worship she herself deserves. So an announcement was made, and a reward was offered to whoever would give any information about Psyche, and the reward was this:
“Seven sweet kisses from the mouth of Aphrodite herself, and one exquisitely delicious thrust of her honeyed tongue between his pursed lips.” [Apuleius, The Golden Ass]
Old Habit catches Psyche
It is not known if Old Habit, who finally caught Psyche, received the promised reward, or whether he was able to enjoy it. In any case Psyche was brought to Aphrodite, who promised her the sort of welcome that a good mother-in-law is bound to give her son’s wife, and clapping her hands the goddess called her attendants Anxiety and Grief, and gave Psyche over to them for a lesson.
Psyche punished with tasks
When Anxiety and Grief had done their job, torturing Psyche in all possible ways, they brought her back to Aphrodite, who let the pregnant girl know that she was not at all happy to become the grandmother of what she called a bastard. So she gave Psyche some impossible tasks to work on, like classifying huge quantities of different grains, just to see, she said, how industrious she was. But even if in every task Psyche was helped by someone who felt pity for her, she nurtured the desire of ending her miserable life, and went about planning how she would take her life. And take her life was what Aphrodite herself seemed to desire, because finally she ordered Psyche to fetch water from the river Styx, a task she only survived thanks to Providence, who always notice when innocent souls are in trouble, and Zeus’ Eagle, who filled the jar with the requested Stygian water.
Most difficult task
So when Psyche returned with the water in the jar, Aphrodite thought she must be a clever and wicked witch, and gave her yet another task: to go to Queen Persephone in the Underworld carrying a box and ask the queen of the dead for a little of her beauty, and having done so, bring the box back to Aphrodite, who had to make such a drain of her own beauty while taking care of her sick son by night.
Guide to the Underworld
Psyche thought that the most direct way to the Underworld was to jump from a tower, but as she was about to take her life, the tower broke into human speech, dissuaded her of taking a way without return, and instructed her about the entrance to the Underworld that may be found at Taenarum in southern Greece, and about the convenience of taking with her two pieces of barley bread soaked in honey for the Hound of Hades, and two coins in her mouth for the greedy ferryman Charon (one for the arrival and one for the return). For Avarice lives in the Underworld, and there they do not do anything for nothing, which in fact makes it difficult for poor people to achieve true death, as they instead had to wander without hope on this side of the river Styx, which is in fact similar to their fate on earth, where they are prevented to achieve true life. Psyche was also instructed not to feel pity for anybody in the Underworld, and never grant the requests of the dead, as hauling them into the boat or giving any kind of help, for Pity is strictly forbidden in that world.
Psyche thought that the most direct way to the Underworld was to jump from a tower, but as she was about to take her life, the tower broke into human speech, dissuaded her of taking a way without return, and instructed her about the entrance to the Underworld that may be found at Taenarum in southern Greece, and about the convenience of taking with her two pieces of barley bread soaked in honey for the Hound of Hades, and two coins in her mouth for the greedy ferryman Charon (one for the arrival and one for the return). For Avarice lives in the Underworld, and there they do not do anything for nothing, which in fact makes it difficult for poor people to achieve true death, as they instead had to wander without hope on this side of the river Styx, which is in fact similar to their fate on earth, where they are prevented to achieve true life. Psyche was also instructed not to feel pity for anybody in the Underworld, and never grant the requests of the dead, as hauling them into the boat or giving any kind of help, for Pity is strictly forbidden in that world.
Psyche and Charon
Psyche in the Underworld
Psyche did what she was told, and when she met Persephone, still following instructions she sat on the ground instead of on the cushioned chair she was offered, and she refused the meal that was served in front of her. For he who eats in the Underworld has to stay there for ever, and he who sits in that chair forgets everything. So Persephone, having listened to Psyche, filled the box as the girl requested, and Psyche was allowed to return to the world of lovely light.
Curiosity puts Psyche in danger again
But as before Psyche could not restrain her curiosity, and thinking besides that taking a tiny touch of the beauty contained in the box would show that she was clever and not a fool who lets go by such an splendid opportunity, she opened the box, but out crept not beauty but truly Stygian sleep, and falling to the ground, she lay like a corpse, the open box beside her.
Eros rescues Psyche
Now Psyche would have slept for ever, had not Eros, now recovered from his sickness, come to her and awakened her, which was bound to happen. For there is no place for Love to dwell except in the Soul, who animates all things, and there is no meaning for the Soul to live and be awake except for the sake of Love. So Eros shut the cloud of sleep up again in the box and roused Psyche with the harmless prick of an arrow.
Eros helped by Zeus
Eros now consoled Psyche, but fearing his mother, he flew off to Heaven, and casting himself as a suppliant at the supreme god’s feet, he pleaded his case. So Zeus, who had been defiled by Eros so many times, found on this occasion the opportunity to prevent Eros, by marrying him, from shooting so many arrows at his divine heart, so often and in such an unpredictable manner. Zeus then called a council of the gods in which he informed his decision, that Eros was to marry Psyche, possess her, and cherish her for all times to come.
Way to Immortality & Wonderful Offspring
This is how Psyche, through Eros’ office, entered Heaven and gained immortality. For as Love cannot dwell in any other place but the Soul, the Soul cannot enter Heaven but through Love. And Lucius Apuleius, who, as far as it is known, was the only one to have ever written these facts, though he himself denies to have committed them to writing, says that the child of Eros and Psyche was named Pleasure.
Author of this article unknown
Eros The Real Cupid
Eros and Althena. Ceiling at Frederiksborgmuseet, Copenhagen
My name is Love, Supreme my sway
The greatest god and greatest pain
Air, earth, and seas, my power obey,
And gods themselves must drag my chain
In every heart my throne I keep
Fear ne’er could daunt my daring soul
I fire the bosom of the deep
And the profoundest hell control
Miguel de Cervantes, Don Quixote, Part II, Chapter XX
Special Objects: Gold & lead arrows
Childrens names: Voluptas
Other Names: Amer, Cupid
Wife: Psyche (who by the way was mortal)
What would Valentine’s Day be without Eros? Although most know him by other names such as the Roman Cupid or the Greek mythology Amor or Eros. I personally prefer to call him Eros, the son of Chaos. As a Daughter of Chaos, I felt the overwhelming desire to tell the story of Eros to pay homage in writing on this Greek God.
Eros the Greek God of love and sexual desire has been presented as a strong forceful youth who impregnated many goddesses and humans. Not the kind that Hallmark would like to show on the cards that we all know and love. Represented by a winged Cupid shooting arrows into unsuspecting passer-bys, this god shoots arrows of gold and lead. The golden arrows are with dove feathers which are to be used for love while the lead arrows have owl feathers and are for indifference.
Eros, the son of Aphrodite and Ares according to the recent mythology. One of the first gods to emerge form primeval Chaos hence is also called the son of Chaos. Eros, himself is thought to be one of the oldest of gods. The ancient Greeks thought of him as the force love. The Greeks also thought of him as the force behind creation.
The Birth of Eros
Eros has been seen as coming from the cosmic egg of Nyx, known as the goddess of night. This world egg which is Chronos, or in common word, Time, he then laid in the bosom of Chaos, which is known as the origin of the creation of all beings. Eros is also deemed the “first born” due to the way he was born (The egg of Nyx).
Family Members
Eros of course has family. According to the Greeks his parents were Aphrodite and Ares, but some accounts say that his father was Zeus, or Hermes. Let us not forget Chaos. His brother, Anteros is his counterpart in all this love conspiracy. Anteros is the god of mutual love, he will punish those that do not return the love for others. Why is this? Eros can not survive without love, so his brother makes sure that it is followed through. Even though he does this in order to make sure his brother survives, they often depict him as Eros’s opponent. Eros has friends and associates. His associations are the Muses and Graces, as he himself is seen as being in constant attendance on Aphrodite. Such a good boy. Others that he is associated with are; Pothos and Himeros (Longing and Desire), Peitho (Persuasion). All you ladies wondering what his martial status is, he is taken by none other than Psyche (Soul).*See next for their love Story
To some philosophers Eros was not just the god of sexual love he was also seen as being loyal and devoted with friendships of mortal men. There are many different cultural references as those that were devoted to him. Namely the Theban Sacred Band, the Cretans and Spartans. The Cretes and Spartans offered sacrifices to Eros before they were to go into battle.
Artwork over the centuries have seen Erosas the winged beauty with bow, arrows and a flaming torch. Pointing at those he wished to fall in love. There are many things that are associated with Eros that are seen in the various paintings; such as the hare, cock rose and the goat.
There have been many quotes regarding Eros and his abilities. Some such are:
- Eros is the striving of mankind to be pure, the good the beautiful–Plato–
- Whoever judges not Eros to be a mighty god is either stupid or, having no experience of good things, knows not of the god who is the mightiest power to men–Euripides–
- Ruthless Eros, great bane, great curse to mankind, from you come deadly strifes and lamentations and groans, and countless pains as well have their stormy birth from you–Apollonious Rhodius–
Now that you have a little of the information on sexy Eros, next Valentines Day when you think of Cupid shooting those arrows, he who looks like a cherub, you may stop and think that he was a little more than cute. He was a very powerful god which could wound both gods and men with his arrows of desire (of the sexual nature).
With that being said read on for the Love Story of Eros & Psyche
Things you don’t want to hear a chaos magician say
By: Node Fizzgig and Friends
Anyone that is involved with a Chaotic Magician, whether intimately or simply associated with one will understand why some of these statements that a Chaotic Magician might say would raise the hair on the back of your neck to standing up.
- With some slight modification I can make it better
- Anyone seen that tailsman of mine? I seem to have misplaced it
- Parsons was a wanker—Watch this!
- Now it’s time for the triple invocation of Loki, Coyote and Baphomet
- HELP!
- What you don’t know can’t hurt you, right?
- Don’t worry, everything’s under control
- I know what I am doing
- Trust me
- Hastur, Hastur, Hast—
- OOPS!
- No, I planned this, honest!
- I’m glad you asked
- But the theory is sound
- Yeah, but you should see the other guy
- But if it’s already dead, how can it be a sacrifice?
- Now if only I had some bungee cords
- Then Cthulu showed up
- I really wish I had some chalk right about now
- Everybody needs a hobby, right?
A Lifetime to Remember
The sky is dark even tough it is mid day. The sea and winds are angry and filled with torment for they know that ill tidings are being brought to this land that once grew love. All the sea and wind can do is rage against the events about to unfold.
She stands on her stone balcony that overlooks the sea. Watching the waves pound upon the jagged rocks below and feeling the wind hitting her harshly, she knows the time has come. The sky is dark with clouds that soon will bring another storm. Not like the storms they are used to. One with such torrent and strength that it will wash away the land and the hope of a vision not coming true.
Thunder is heard breaking the silence. Such a loud, crashing noise. As if the Gods their selves just walked upon our earth, unhappily walking. It is not so, she thinks. Having the Gods walk here would be a blessing for one and all. They and they alone carry the only solution in stopping what will happen. Lady Fenella knows they will not intrude, for destiny is ours to live out.
What does it matter, sighing to herself. “all will be lost soon". She moves closer to the edge of the balcony, trying to see something that is not there. Hoping to see something is more the thought.
Her cheeks begin to sting with a mixture of hot tears and the mist that is now coming down. Have the Gods begun to cry also? she thinks. A sound of an opening door can be heard behind her. She does not move from this cold, windy spot, staring out at the sea. She dares not look for she knows that once she turns, the vision will begin and she can not stop it. Quickly thinking to herself that maybe, just maybe if she does not turn to see her husband, Lord Ansgar, the vision will not come about. “My Lady, I must talk with you. Now, if you please for the time is growing near for me to depart". The tone is stern yet filled with a warmth that only she alone can feel. Taking a deep breath, muttering a prayer, she thinks to herself “May the heavens preserve us". With this thought she enters their bedroom, turning to close the door behind her to shut out the cold wind that is violently blowing.
“Lord Ansgar, I did not expect you so soon” “We have much to discuss before I leave, this I am sure you knew” Lord Ansgar replied. Looking at her he chuckles softly thinking that she always knew what he would do before he himself knew. His arrival could come of no surprise. Lord Ansgar looking into her eyes and her face, hoping to see something that would tell him of what would be said, but there was nothing to see. “How I adore this woman” he thought . “I have been a blessed man all these years.” Instead of saying this to her he said: “You should not go out in the cold with only your light wrap. It is freezing with cold and you will chill.” Touching her , ” See you are already cold my lady” Holding her hands in his as he has done for many years now trying to warm them, she replies” Ansgar, you needn’t worry so. I am fine. The sea and wind had something to tell me” a small smile nearly childlike appeared. “You are right, we do have much to say and plan. Time is short “. Lady Fenella walked over to the bed that they have shared for ten years now. The bed of dreams they have always called it. Which soon, as she looked at it will only share one dreamer not two.
“Fenella, your visions have always astounded me and our counsel, but maybe this time it is wrong. Maybe what you saw was indeed a dream, not a vision of our fate to come. Maybe this time you did not see the future of things to come. Could this be the truth?” his tone was nearly a cry of despair. “No, my dearest Ansgar, it was not a dream as you want to badly to call it. It is as those in the past have been. A vision of the coming.” Her voice was muffled as she said this to him for it broke her heart in telling him this truth.
“I ask you, no I implore you, do not go. You have no reason to join in this battle. It has nothing to do with us. This you know is true. It would be just for you to not leave.” “Fenella, it is not a matter of just, it is honor. I gave my word to the brothers to help them fight for their land that is being attacked by the Cradlodish. I can not go back on my word. They have fought side by side for us in the past, now I must return the favor to them. It is our way". He knew that she was not listening to his explanation of why he had to leave. Fenella grasping her shawl tightly by the breast said: “Yet you leave your own land, your homeland, your people” she paused taking a big breath “leaving me". “You shall not return and I will forever be one of the walking dead. Destined to be an empty vessel without you". More tears. Tears that could wash away miles of land she has cried over this separation.
Looking at her in this manner touched his heart . If only he could stay here, forget the word that he gave his brothers. Knowing full well that he could not do that he heard Fenella continue: “Come with me, look out the window at the sea. It is filled with rage, the wind is blowing with anger. Both are raging against your quest for battle for you will leave and not return. The wind and sea know this is and are trying to tell you.” Ansgar and Fenella looked out upon the angry sea. The birds that were caught in the wind were blown here and there, having a hard time getting free of the winds hold. Breaking the silence, Fenella said “Do you not feel the warning by the sea? Do you wish to leave behind your life only to give it to another in battle?” Pain filled his head making it hard for him to rationalize his motives for joining the battle. Knowing that what he would say next would change their destiny and nothing would ever be the same again.
“My Lady, you knew when we wed that we would depart, only to meet again and again. Until such day I shall never leave your side. Yet, that time is not now. This saddens me to leave you for you fill my heart and soul with such love and joy that no man justly deserves from one such as you. Each breath I have taken over the years I have taken with love for you. Yet, I must protect our family honor as my word and name are part of our very being and will be long after we leave this world.We leave behind honor for our family name. This is the way of ours".
Lady Fenella trembled with sobs. Each sob was like a knife in her heart for the pain was not bearable. There was nothing more to do or to say. They each knew that anything else that could or would be said would be empty banter. He was leaving her behind. The wheel was turning. Turning to quickly for both of them.
“I trust the ways of your family, but my heart will lay dormant until we meet. You, my Lord, are the reason for my very life.” Taking his hand in hers and bringing it to her lips she gently kissed it. “Until we meet again, I shall truly love no other. I shall die until we are together again. Only when we meet again will I love once more". Looking into her eyes he knew this to be true. He knew she carried the love for him deep inside and no other man would ever find this love in her."Fenella, Until we meet again, I shall truly love no other. I shall die until we are together again. Only when we meet again will I love once more” Fenella sobbing softly “For I shall find you again no matter where you are or how long it takes . Even if we pass over the Gods will guide us together. We are one soul, you and I. Forever joined.” “Forever joined” he repeated after her.
Ansgar took her into his arms and held her tightly for he knew this was to be the last time for many years ahead. He drank in her sweet scent, touched her silky hair feeling the waves upon his palm. How many times had he done this before finding comfort in touching her? Feeling the power of love fill him. Now this will be the last time to know such pleasure. Ansgar said “Let me gaze upon you. I want to embed your beauty at this moment so it will remain in my memory forever. I shall take this memory to my very grave .” “Promise me this” he said to Fenella “promise that with each sunrise and sunset we will call out the others name upon the wind to carry the sound of love to each other. By saying the others name we will know that our love is alive.” All Fenella could do was shake her head yes. “Use the wind as you do now to carry your voice to me.” Standing holding one another in a tight embrace, she crying and he turning pale with sorrow. Breaking the silence Ansgar says: “I must ready myself.’, glancing at his battle suit laid out before him. Breaking is grasp, Fenella’s arms dropped limply at her sides.
As he was dressing, Fenella in a feeble attempt said: “Please I beg of you, do not go to battle leaving me alone. You will not return to me on our lands. A blade will cut into and tear away at your flesh. Your blood will spill upon this land that is not yours. This blood will mark the spot of your travel to the otherworld. I have made you a promise, now you must promise me this. Meet me on the bridge of Yorkney. Come each month for three years on the third day of each week until we meet."If neither are there at the end of this time, I will know that you have gone. I will send the winds to find you throughout the centuries until we meet.” “I promise you this", he replied not able to keep her stare. Gazing at each neither wanting to break the spell of the moment. Saying nothing with their eyes yet knowing what the other was saying.
A sudden knock at the door broke the spell they were in. Realizing that they now had to face hard reality. The time was nearing. A voice on the outside of the door loomed out that the horses and men were ready to leave. “I will be there in a moment", Ansgar said loudly, a little to loudly. He looked at his beloved, she returning his look.
“Ansgar, my love is yours and yours only on this day and days in another life. Go foolish man go. May Gods hand cover you with protection, for I am unable to protect you this time.” “Fenella, you are my life. My love is yours to hold and keep with you. No other woman , now or in another lifetime have that love.” “May God protect you as I will not be there to do so.” Ansgar said gently in her ear. They embraced with saying such as they knew that this would be the last touch for much time ahead. He kissed her forehead, turned towards the door. WIthout turning to look her way he asked: “If I leave this world and we enter another, how will we know each other?” Looking at his back seeing his shoulders slump, Fenella told him: “We will know by a closeness that will happen with the first meeting. A fleeting look will pass between our eyes of knowing that there is love between us. We will have the feeling that we are home again once we are in each others arms. This my love is how we will know each other. Love such as ours never dies, it lingers looking until love again is found". Fenella continued: “For as the hills of ours are ever green, our love will remain true. We carry with us from this day on pieces of each other. This is how we will know.” With that Ansgar left the room. Softly closing the large door behind him leaving all that he loved.
Lady Fenella sitting once more upon the bed of dreams, crying. Stopping briefly looking towards the sea and knew what it was telling her. The vision had begun. What would happen next would not be a dream only a living nightmare. Fenella readied herself for the next blow to come.
Silently, she asked “Will I ever be ready?”
Seasonal Changes
I believe we are free, within limits, and yet there is an unseen hand, a guiding angel, that somehow, like a submerged propeller, drives us on.
-Rabindranath Tagore-
We have seen the season pass us by. They come and go as if blown by the winds. With each passing season there are changes that abound. Not only the changes in our Great Mother Earth, but changes within us and the people in our inner circle.
These changes sometimes are not seen as they are gradual, subtle, yet they make an impact on the overall scheme of things.
Why the need to express this seasonal change when we are yet to have one? Changes can be looked at as seasonal. Especially in the magical world that we live in.
Season One: What is going on?
This thought comes to those in the magickal world all the time. Events that shape our lives occur in leaps and bounds. At times these events have such an emotional or physical impact on either us or those we know that we begin to think about what is going on in our lives. DId we do something wrong? Request the wrong request (maybe we used the wrong words)? We try to explain to ourselves what is happening in reasonable logical thoughts. Doesn’t always work, but we try our best. The event has occurred and there is no going back. We can only try to soothe our emotions with explanations.
Season two: Why is this happening?
All to many times we ask ourselves this one. Why is this happening to me, to my friend, to my loved one. Doubts enter that may shake our very belief structure we have built. For if there is indeed a god/goddess that we have dedicated ourselves to, then why are they letting this happen in our lives? We begin to go over each and ever thing that we have done over a period of time. Trying to find a clue as to what we may have done. We sit and ponder the finer points in our religious training. Re-reading past books, notes you name it, seeking the answer that does not seem to come. The event doesn’t seem fair, but then it never does when in it is personal.
Season three: What is the solution?
Now it is time to reason. No more emotion simply logic will do here. Yes, this has happened. Yes, we will find a way to make it better, resolve it or survive.
This is where we as practioners have raised our heads once more to look above for answers. We pray, make requests for signs as helping to guide us back on the path. There are no more placing false blame, there is only you and the chosen ones you believe in. As we place our full trust in them as we have done for many years, we know that they will give us an answer. It may not be the answer we are looking for or want but we will get that sign. It may take forever, well maybe days or weeks in reality, but the sign will come.
Once we have again opened our eyes, ears and hearts we are now prone to receiving what we need. You will find in this season you have become calmer of mind. Thoughts are not jumbled but becoming clearer. You are beginning to see the why and what. It is our faith in the Gods and Goddesses that have brought us back to the place where we will begin to see and hear the answers to any dilemma presented.
Season Four: The Outcome
Now that we have once again regained our inner composure, we have a better grip on the event and how to handle it. No, the sign may not have come yet, but deep in our heart of hearts we know it will be there. We must use what we have and know in the “now". There is no time to sit and whine and cry, only time to act.
When we use the knowledge by our Craft, the aged ways of old helps with the outcome. Sometimes we must fall apart in order to come together (balance in a way only a Chaotic would understand). Things do happen for a reason. Are we always supposed to know this reason? I think we are not. Events that occur shape us into what we are, what we will become. At times these are purely tests presented to us to see how strong our beliefs are. Not only in our Gods and Goddesses, but ourselves as well. Testing to see if we will do the right things when given a choice to sway to the other side.
Many will fail these tests. They will fall apart never to be put back together again. They may walk away from their Gods and Goddess thinking they were let down. In fact they were the ones to let the Gods/Goddesses down. We have good times and bad, yet the bottom line, it is us that makes the final outcome. We who practice the Craft and live by our own codes. If we believe in our way, as we proclaim, then we will be fine.
Each of us has had things happen in our lives that tested our belief, our magickal abilities and our ways. Let these events roll over you as the wind blowing through the meadows. Call upon the greatest ability that is there, the power within yourself to overcome whatever season is upon you.
For with each passing day, there is a new season ahead. One that holds promise of new things. A greater respect and love by the Gods and Goddesses will be shown to you. As you are their children, sons and daughters, this re-kindling of love is shown due to your choice to stay on the path, never wandering. Pride will be felt by them and they shall shower you with golden light which will bless you.
Let the seasons come and go. With the turning of each season we will gain wisdom, which is the right step on the road to enlightenment.
Are you Magically Insecure?
I’m better than you. One may think they are hearing this in the local playground, but this is not the case. This phrase seems to be coming by the adults that are in the realm of magick.
Why is this feeling becoming so wide spread? It is not just an emotional outbreak by individuals but also by those that are in groups or associations in the community. One may hear that this group is better than this other group, but are they? Aren’t they all practicing something similar? Isn’t the basis of our ways the same? So why is it that normally intelligent people are resorting to the comparison of who is better than whom?
This came to my direct attention some time ago. Individually speaking this has always been a humorous avenue for me listening to those that come to me. Telling of how they are able to do this. that and the other. While putting them through mild mannered tests they seem to not know what they are doing. This is not to degrade them, only to see what it is they are really capable of.
Each person that practices the Art has their own ways, belief structure. Their knowledge and abilities have been built on how much they have actually studied. Finding that some are simply fluff and bluff, while others are to be admired and listened to.
The point of the matter is that these individuals seem to think that with the knowledge they have they are the “best". They are able to do things that others can not. Or they insist that they can simply do it better.
Why is being the best so important?
To some being the best they can be is an individual’s path. They strive for perfection in everything they happen upon. These people must be into everything, from the old to the new. Yet they do not take the time to explore the road to the fullest. They will briefly get into a subject, read a few books and then proclaim they are able to do what they have read. Maybe they are able to, I can not judge this. Yet, it seems to me in my past training, that one must practice certain forms of magic and know the theory fully before moving on to even thinking you know what you are doing. I am amazed at those who read an article, magazine or book, and say they know what to do. No practice, no more research, no thought.
Proceeding to tell whomever will listen what they have learned. In actuality they only have learned the basics, if that. It has taken me years of study and research to be comfortable in what I am and know. Practice, learning, trial and error, taking the time to have things sink in, while those around me take a week and know as much if not more than I. I am still learning, practicing and thinking, time and age has not stopped this.
In conversations, I see they are trying to be something, what I really do not know, but something. Of course, on those times of trying to out wit and out do, all they have accomplished is to show their insecurity. I have in the past tried to explain to those that you can pick up a book and not know everything about the subject. One must research, compile information and think about what it is they are looking into. Some studies of magic may take years to learn if ever. By this I am implying to learn how to use properly and proficiently. Not sloppy, make shift attempts. Just because you think you can do something does not necessarily mean you should.
While these individuals, sit around comparing their selves to others they are telling those that listen their weaknesses. Trouble with ego, they seek to be something they are not. Not being satisfied with who they are and what they are able to do. They do not care to listen to others and truly hear what they are saying. Doubting those that have taken the time to study the craft and theoretical aspects. It is a good thing to question those that are speaking, but it is even better to listen silently, grasping what you are being told. Let the words of those Elders sink in before you leap in to say something ludicrous. Examples of statements that make the magician look insecure are:
Oh, I can do that
Where’s the entity bring it on
My shields are so strong nothing can get through (famous last words)
If he/she can do that, I can also. If I tried
I read a book on that subject, tried a ritual, it worked
What do they know?
Who do they think they are?
Those that have been in the Craft for years have heard more than their share of egotistical phrases. Age does not limit the usage of statements issued by egomaniacts.
What happened to the days of old when one was honored to listen to those with experience, to learn from them, not comparing our knowledge with theirs ( meaning we were better?) What happened to wishing to learn theory instead of leaping in to the casting of spells, seeing auras and putting up psychic shields? What has happened to the love of our ways? Has it gone to the way side, being replaced with selfish magicians who just have to be the best?
These individuals have no idea of the ways of Old. They are to caught up in being the best they do not know what the true way is any longer. Lost is the feeling of warmth, love and devotion. Now it seems to be all about the spells and psychic abilities. Which is a shame.
Our group is the best
How many times have I heard this one? Some Coven leaders act as if they are a Marine Recruitment officer. Join us, we are the cream of the crop. Don’t practice with that other group because they are impostor’s of the Craft.
What makes Head Priestesses / Priests of covens feel and act this way? Superiority of their status goes to their head. A fraction of these HP are self imposed leaders that have formed groups because they wanted one. They did not achieve a group in the old manner. They float around as if they are the God and or Goddess they worship. Looking disdainful at other leaders of the same stature. Thinking and feeling they are the true leaders.
I have been approached by various leaders asking, telling or implying that their’s is the coven of all covens. Speaking out against other coven members, leaders or those of the solitaire way. Acting in a way that makes them look like novices of the craft. I have attended meetings of such leaders only to find that in the end they are the same as the other prestigious group. A pack of people talking about everything other than magic, worship and doing a make shift ritual to accomplish something the HP wishes to accomplish. Some I have attended seemed to be more of Magical Tupperware parties. If this HP is the best, show me the worst.
The main thing that these “magical know it alls” have to remember is that it is all about what is inside. Balance of logic and emotion in the craft. A path of continual study. Study does not stop once you have earned all your degrees. It should be advanced with your workings, the thirst of knowledge should never be quenched. Another point to think about is that it is NOT all about being able to do magick.
All those individuals and group leaders need to stop trying to be something they are not. The best. Try being who you are. Silence is the best remedy for bragging. For one that is silent is taking in what is being said and done around them. Weighing the words they are hearing, feeling the emotions that surround them.
At a time in my life I have been asked how does it feel that others come to me and ask to be taught, ask for guidance in certain areas etc. Do I not feel like I am so much better than others. My reply is generally the same, for one that is good there is another who is better. We each have more to learn, I am open to learning something every single day that I breath. There is no comparison of abilities and knowledge to be done by me in regards to others. I meet people that amaze me, they are able to take me back to a time and place of being a novice. I am honored by this feeling. For I know that I am still on the path of gaining spiritual knowledge.
We may not be equals in the Craft but we are not so advanced not to be humbled. Once we are no longer humbled we are at a stumbling block. We have taken to placing blinders on, no longer seeing others and their ways of practice. Yes, I am also amazed at those on the other side of the spectrum. Those that tell me how great they are. Those individuals and leaders I can only smile and keep my silence.
In the end
One must work on arrogance in the craft. Do not let your ego get in the way of what you are trying to do. There will always be someone that is more knowledgeable than you. Yet this person will listen and learn from your words and experiences. If you are attempting to impress them they will hope for the best on your travels, that you will someday live up to your words and falsehoods of grandeur.
If at the end of the day, you are able to look into the mirror of your soul and know that you did your best in all ways, then you are the best; for yourself.
Remember that even the most proficient and experienced magician has room for improvement.
Mystics Everywhere
Meetings with like people seem to happen at the oddest of times. Never expecting the chance meetings, yet I am always somewhere, at the same time as they are. Most of these people that I run into seem to be seekers of sorts. Wandering as if lost needing to be found. This is not as unusual as it may seem.
I once asked my mentor about this in one of our lighter conversations, or was it one where he was not wagging a finger at me calling me ” Damn Chaotic". I asked him why these meetings came about, and more importantly in the past two years or so closer together. Where there were maybe 10 a year, now there are to numerous to count. His answer was “I don’t know, do you?” Thinking that he was once again being obstinate. I decided it was one of those times that I had to find the answer myself.
I proceeded to just let it play out and see what happened. I did make my request of putting me where I was needed and to please give me a sign of why this was alweays happening.
Each time I run into another of hte craft it is for a reason. Each individual that has entered upon my path is as I said earliuer seeking something. Each has a common denominator. They are seeking something but not able to find the elusive answer to their quest.
Some reminding me of ships that are lost in the darkest of nights looking for the beacon of light from the lighthouse on shore. More and more I have met with Solitaires that needed to tell their stories to someone with an ear for listening and a heart that is open with no condemnation. Simply to just share with another. Seeing that what they have experienced is normal in our magickal and mystical lives tht we lead.
From the voices to visions, spirits, guides and demons, they all are different yet the same. I have listened, nodding with affirmation that they are certainly OK, and that there are others that feel, hear and see the same things. These are stories, real stories. Not fabrications of the insane, although to mundanes it is insane. They are made to feel different, the mundanes keep away or do not talk about this part of the persons life. Fear, plain and simple. The magickal person feels isolated. Not wanting to be alone they remain quiet. Maybe thinking that they are crazy. Locking their private thoughts and sights away for only theirselves. Nobody to listen to them.
These stories come raging forth like the rushing river during a winter storm. They talk and talk with out taking a breath it appears until they wind down. I have seen their faces go from vacant, distant to bright, lively and warm after they talk especially when they hear the words “Yes, I am a teacher". Coming from no where yet everywhere I meet these kindred souls.
I have noticed that I am drawn to a place for no reason only to meet with another of the Craft. Most of these people are in need of something.
As the saying goes “Like attracts like". We feel it around us all the time. Knowing that it is there, Sometimes wer may not be able to lay our hands on it right away when it is near, but we know it is there.
They say that timing is everything. I tend to believe that is so true. It struck me today more than ever. Actually, it felt as though I was hit by a lightening bolt.
I was doing something that was out of character for me. I totally changed my schedule in a task that I normally do at a certain time each day. I found that I was drawn someplace. Since I follow these feelings with trust, I went along with it. I met someone that I had known slightly on a walk way. As we began talking this person opened up to me and stated that she to was a practioner but had lost the feeling and not practiced in some time. I told her it was time to unpack her tools and start back as I saw it gave her great comfort in practicing. The story that she told me was no different than others I have had heardf. Yet equally as touching. The physical and emotional demeanor was there once more. I listened, explained a few things and shook hands. This person looked relieved. Since this meeting there is a certain look that they have when we meet. Not to mention a brighter aura around them. I suspect they are slowly coing back.
After this meeting I decided to meditate on all tht happens around me. Those that come into my life for brief periods to years of friendship. As I was drawing all this in, I felf a slight breeze around me, as though my answer was there.
Those of us who seem to be cosen to have specific abilities and knowledge at certain times are ignorant to the whys and whats sometimes. We stumble around asking ourselves the g/g our guides, mentors anyone that will listen “Why does this happen?” What is the purpose? Why me? and my favorite, What am I doing?
Hopefully, the answer will be shown to us.
Each time now when I am in an odd situation for what seems to be no good reason, I now know what to expect. I am not questioning.
I have helped many of those seekers. Helping them find a little peace of light to guide their travels. Answering their questions or leading them to answer it for theirselves. Guiding, listening, what ever this person needs, I give without reservation.
At the end of the day I may be drained by these sessions, but I look forward in fulfilling my chosen duties for helping those seekers gain a footing onto their path. Restoring their faith or hope that they now know they are not alone.
It is with gentle hands and whispers that replensishes my love towards them in doing what I have been led to do.
People have inquired do I ever I want to it to just stop. The meetings, the guidings the readings the helping. I think a bit each time I asked this. With each new discovery I say earnestly no.
Not being able to help those of the Craft would leave a void in my life that could not ever be filled by anything as grand as this. It is a love and devotion of the Gods and Goddesses and those of the Craft that pales in comparison to anything else that I may do.
Let those seekers enter for help, comfort, friendship and questions. I welcome them with open arms and heart. I welcome the next seeker that is just around the corner.
When a friend just recently asked me why I choose this way of life, I replied with a smile and a shrug “It’s what I do.”