Whispers of the Witch Within
- Second Edition!
In this edition you will discover the following items and articles:
(Page One)
-By Dwarneiel Moone
-By Isault Aurora
- Answers from us
- By Anna Alexander
- By Cathy aka Shewolf Silver Shadows
- By ShadowWolf (Bobi)
- By Cathy aka Shewolf Silver Shadows
- By Summer
- By Whyte Wolf
- By Whyte Wolf
- By Sarrah
(Page Two)
- By TranquilStar
- By Cheetahcry
- By Ivy
- By Ivy
- By Anna
- By Summer
- By Persephone
- By Cheetahcry
- By Cathy aka Shewolf Silver Shadows
- By TranquilStar
- Provided by Cheetahcry this issue
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Rede of a Solitaire Witch
By Dwarneiel Moone
When ye choose the path of the solitaire,
To be one with earth, fire, sea, and air,
An oath ye take to initiate
Thyself into thy truest state.
No longer be as flesh and bone,
See thyself as Spirit's own.
Whatever path of faith ye take,
Learn it well for thine own sake.
In thy craft be diligent,
Lest thy knowledge be quickly spent.
Learn to seek and seek to learn.
An elder's wisdom never spurn.
For though ye choose to walk alone,
Heed the knowledge ye are shown.
The laws ye choose which to abide,
Let them be thy daily guide.
Always heed the law of three,
For what ye send shall return to thee.
What ye conjure here, ye should know
Manifests above as it does below.
As for the law, 'An it harm none',
Let thy soul decide what must be done.
Protect thyself and thy kin,
Lest any harm should come to them.
Be mindful of what's right and just
To live in perfect love and trust.
Find balance in thy life and deeds
Look within to fulfill thy needs.
Tis not a path for the faint of heart,
So heed this wisdom I now impart.
To thine own self be always true
In all ye say and all ye do.
Still thy tongue from words of wrath.
Do not slight another's path.
For when all is said and done,
We each are but a part of One.
Keep this knowledge in thy heart,
From its wisdom never part.
This I say, so mote it be.
Merry part and blessed be.
2004
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The face of intolerance
By Isault Aurora
Not more than a week ago a co-worker of mine sent me a very interesting article. It was a letter published in Dear Prudie (the Advise columnist, her column appears once a week on MSN.com) it was from a concerned citizen about Prudie's Advice to a Wiccan. The fellow witch had written Prudie for advice on coming out of the Broom closet. And Prudie gave some wonderful advice that all of us could use. The concerned citizen has written to inform Prudie that her article touches a lot of people and that she should tell them how evil Witchcraft isBefore I go any further I have included the segments from the articles
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Witch Way How do I tell my family I'm a Wiccan?
Posted Thursday, Dec. 4, 2003, at 8:54 AM PT Dear Prudie,
For more than a decade, I have been involved in my city's pagan community (Wicca to be precise). My husband is also Wiccan. I'm not some 20-year-old flake rebelling against her parents. I am educated, intelligent, and articulate, and I came to Wicca in my 30s, spending these past years soul-searching and learning. After advice and support from my husband, my teachers, and members within the community, I have decided to leave behind my 15 years in the corporate rat race to begin spiritual mentoring and teaching, full time. My dilemma is this: Virtually everyone-except my business contacts, my parents, and sister-knows that I am a devoted pagan. Believe me, coming out of the "broom closet" is a one-way trip. I have never hidden the fact that I'm Wiccan, but I have also never advertised it. I'm worried about my parents' and sister's ability to cope with what they will see as a very sudden and "weird" change in my life. How do I tell them about my religious practices and my choice to go "public" without them trying to have me committed and deprogrammed? Seriously, can you help me?
-Bewitched
Dear Be,
Perhaps you shouldn't have "saved up" your religious conversion news for a decade, but since you did, your best bet is a sit-down with your folks and your sister. If Prudie were in your broom closet, er, shoes, she would explain that believing your selection of religions would strike them as weird, you spared them the information. Being a practicing Wiccan for all these years, however, you can tell them that you wanted them to know at a time when they would no longer think it a hasty decision. Be prepared, however, for some resistance to what is still a misunderstood and minority religious practice. Chances are that people who know nothing of Wiccan culture imagine it's about pointy hats and cauldrons. Good luck.
-Prudie, enchantingly
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This segment appeared in the article titled
"Best Friends For ... Never
When the feeling isn't mutual."
Posted Thursday, Jan. 8, 2004, at 8:19 AM PT
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.
Prudie,
Why would you encourage a person to practice witchcraft? That is totally against the Word of God. I am not trying to sound mean or judging. It's just we need to turn back to God and away from Satan. Please, you can impact many with your views, be careful and prayerful. Thanks so much for your time.
-Denny
Dear Den,
First of all, in the letter you are referring to, Prudie did not encourage anyone to "practice witchcraft." She would not be so bold as to tell another how to worship (ahem). What Prudie did was give a Wiccan woman her suggestion about how to tell her family that she's been studying this faith for 10 years and has become a believer. Second, "Satan" is a matter of opinion, my friend. Prudie would say that you have read Macbeth too many times, except that, on second thought, that seems highly improbable. What would really be good is if Prudie could "impact" you with the idea that you have a ton of misinformation. And no, Prudie is not a witch, except perhaps to a former mother-in-law.
-Prudie, ecumenically
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After reading this, my coworker sent me the following note "If only I could be that biting and sweet at the same time..." And you know what, I do wish for that sometimes too. Especially when someone has stuck a foot in their mouth because of ignorance and doesn't even know it.
The thing that comes to mind most when I witness religious intolerance is who are you that you can judge. I have to chuckle while I write that because now that I think about it there is a wonderful story in the Bible about judgment and passing it on others. Many of you are probably familiar with the story I am thinking of, the thing that stands out is when Christ tells the mob that the man with no sin can cast the first stone. And they all seem to walk away.
One thing I have come to understand is that no matter which path you are on with all of the various stories and myths that have evolved through out time it can be very hard to work past the cliques and establish your own identity. Our history is filled with acts against our group, even as recently as the Witch trials on the American continent. But it just isn't our group that falls victim to the misunderstanding and intolerance. Look as recently as the wars currently happening in the Middle East. Islamic Jihadist are making "holy wars" against those of the Christian world. In Israel the Palestinians and the Jews have been fighting for centuries over their homeland. Even the recently split Yugoslavia was split by war based on religion. Even if we look a little farther into history, World War 2 meant the death of millions of Jews, and not to mention that until recently there was an extermination order in the laws of Missouri against Mormons. Even The founding fathers of the United States left England because of religious persecution. The Christians themselves were met with hatred and misunderstanding at first. How many Christians were killed in Rome or during the inquisition, yet once they came to power it was the Pagans that suffered and hid in fear. It doesn't matter which path you walk in your history there is intolerance, hatred and misunderstanding. This one article is just a glimpse into what all of us experience from our families, our friends, our coworkers, our children or even just the random stranger on the street.
Yet as we look at all of the mainstream TV shows and book trends, things like Harry Potter, Charmed and Angel all come to mind. The general fad is based off of our world, even if on just a very minuet level. Just look at a Science fiction section of the bookstore, how many of those books talk about witches, dragons or even magic. The best example is the Harry Potter Series. There have been large fits thrown over what the Harry Potter books teach; yet there have been millions of copies sold and the books have spurred a movie series as well. It seems everywhere I go you find something Harry Potter. Every little kid wants a magic wand and a broomstick. Their parents throw big fits about the witchcraft in the books but have you talked seriously with the kids who are fans, they know that Harry potter isn't real, but that Magick is. It may not be the same type the books discuss but they know it is as real as everything else in our life, and these are the kids that will grow to be tolerant and open-minded adults.
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Ask The Witches!
This is a new article and we need help from YOU! Each month we will choose 2 questions and have members of our staff provide their opinions. The opinions presented are not the word on the subject and at times we may differ significantly. We share our opinions in hopes of helping you along your path and to give you something to think about. If you have questions you'd like answered in this forum please send your questions to:
Depending on the number of questions we receive we may not get to them all, if your question is not answered in the next edition it may be at a later time.
1 - Are you really born a witch or is it something that you can learn?
Summer: I believe we are all born with abilities, but choose to hone them or not. Some of us have been witches in previous lifetimes and therefore have done work that may make our abilities look effortless.
WhyteWolf: Well, As far as I'm concerned, being a witch is something that comes from deep within ones self. You can be born a witch, but if you weren't, that's ok too. You can learn to be a witch, however, you need to have the connection inside, or all the studying in the world will not make you one. Being a witch is a part of your whole being, you head, heart and soul.
Cheetacry: In my personal opinion the difference in white magic and dark magic is how the person is on the inside. In saying that I believe that everyone is balanced in magic. Also that there is a light/ white side to each of us and that there is a dark/evil side as well. That is why I feel that every one is balanced in their magic.
TranquilStar: I think one is either a witch or they are not in their soul. Learning, reading etc will spark something inside those who are of this path, and for others it will lead them further down the road to their path. I don't think you can 'learn to be a witch' but I do think you can learn to accept that you are one, to some that acceptance isn't easy and others try so hard to be one, their path may be similar but if the call is not there, it is not there. You can however go through all the motions and call yourself a Witch, but you can do that with any other religion as well, it doesn't mean that is what is in your heart.
Shewolf Silver Shadows: My answer to this may be a bit surprising, but I will say yes you are born a Witch, and yes it is something that you learn. However, I will also so that no, you are not born being a Witch. Let me explain.
If you are asking are we born a Witch via heredity, meaning that because my mom was a Witch, or my Grandmother was, or my father, or great grandfather being a Witch automatically makes me a Witch - my personal answer on this is no. I personally do not believe that there is such a thing as inheriting 'Witchery' via DNA or by anything that is in the blood passed down. Of course, it is entirely possible that hereditary Witches did and do pass their craft down from ancient time up to modern day, but this is nearly impossible to prove. And as far as documentation goes, there is NO proof what so ever. As far as historical documentation goes there is no such thing as an unbroken tradition of Witchcraft. So how can it be passed down via blood or DNA?
Is there something in the DNA that makes one a Witch? Is it hereditary? Personally I do not think so. But what I do believe is that you can be born a Witch via your 'soul'.
I think there is something in the Soul that makes one a Witch, not in the blood or DNA but in the Soul of a Witch. So personally, I think that if one is born a Witch, it is not via DNA, but through some form of soul recollection that must be admitted to and tapped into and in essence re-learned in many ways by the individual.
I believe that being a Witch is something that is and has been for many lifetimes, something that is literally apart of the very Soul, not in the bloodlines, not in the DNA, but something even more subtle, and more infinite - the Soul. So is there a hereditary Witch, or can one be born a Witch via bloodlines? I truly have my doubts to this, but is there something such as a 'Soul Witch' now this is something I am more apt to believe in.
It is so much easier for me to personally believe that the essence of a Witch is located in the soul and not the blood. I mean if you look at it realistically, many of us, most of us, I believe, were at one point in time, practicing pagans of one sort or fashion in Pre-Christian in lives and in faith. Meaning that at one time in our incarnations or even beginnings we all were Pagan to some degree. The earth, the very essence of life is pure and natural - nature is only natural- and within us all.
I do want to also add here, that I think it is this 'something' that is in our souls, or the soul of a Witch that inevitably draws those that have it in their soul to the Pagan path sooner or later on some level. I think this might explain why those that are raised in a Christian way, or at least many of those, eventually ask the questions, and doubt the inaccuracies found when dealing with that path. Why they are drawn or compelled to find the answers they seek, answers that are not found in Christianity, but in the older, more earth conscience ways, that of the pagan ways.
I also think that it is this 'something' that is in the soul of a Witch that causes a tug. When he or she tries to leave or turn their back on the pagan ways it causes that gentle tug that small pull that draws them back to the pagan path once they have walked it they just can not turn their back on it, on magic. It is partially why we have Christian Witches, and a growing pagan community.
Is there such thing as a 'Hereditary' Witch or 'Soul' Witch? This is a decision that you will personally have to reach on your very own in time and with education of the spirit. Find what feels right to you.
As for learning to be a Witch? I think that we all have to learn at some point in time the things that are part of being a Witch. But I believe that the Soul Witch has a deep often hidden knowledge of many things that need only be tapped into and in essence, re learned. However a true practitioner knows that we never, ever stop learning. Learning is a never ending process.
2 - What is the difference between white magic and dark magic or is there such a thing?
Summer: No difference, magic is colored by intent. What one person perceives as good may be horrible to another. Energy is not good or bad it just is.
WhyteWolf: Some people say that there is no such thing as dark magic. I believe that anything that is intended to harm someone is considered dark. Of course the real difference is the intent of the magic. Any spell can be both good or bad depending on how you wish to use it, just as any magic, ie: candle, herb, spellwork, crystal can be either. Personal intent is the key to determining whether it is "white" or "dark".
Cheetacry: I believe that you can be born a witch and that it is something that you can learn. You are what you are in your soul there is no doubt about that. But what I am saying is that some of our forefather's in the craft were not born into it. It was something that they were taught by other friends & family members. This is where I normally would say follow what is in your heart because is your teacher & your counter part to the minds eye.
TranquilStar: I agree, it is not the magic which is white or black, it is the intent of the one harnessing the energy and sending it out into the world which is white or black (or most often grey)
Shewolf Silver Shadows: To answer the question of 'What is the difference between white magic and dark magic or is there such a thing' we would have to first take a look at what the definition of Magic is or could be.
Magic, to me, is the natural vibrations, energy you might say, that is part of everything upon this Magical Earth we live upon. From the air we breathe, the water we drink, the land we walk upon and the fire we use to warm ourselves or cook our food by. The animals, the insects, all are made up of an essence that vibrates a vibration that has been discovered and proven via sciences. This energy that is part of everything and that we area all apart of, is neither good, nor bad it simply - is.
Magic is the use and direction of those energies. Magic is the action of taking those vibrations, or energies, that are natural to the earth and all upon it, and shaping it with our will, with our own personal INTENT and then directing it.
So, you see, to me magic is energy and that energy is neither good nor bane, harmful or helpful with out someone taking those energies and manipulating them to act on their will. So, no to me, magic is neither black nor white, good or bad it is the initial INTENT that is actually good or bad, helpful or harmful- black or white. But not magic - simply the person and that person's intent that colors those energies and directs them.
However, once a persons intent is added to those energies directed by one's will then the intent of those energies is now either good or bane. But then even that is not all cut and dried. Even a simple spell meant for good, if not thought out thoroughly could in the end cause harm and would that not then make that initial white magic not so -white?
So, magic is neither good or bane, black or white. When someone refers to the color of magic what is really being referred to is the intent of the practitioner of the magic.
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World Temple Alliance
By Anna Alexander
Lisa Prestegard is leading a tireless effort to get Pagans a little more organized and unified. It might sound like a job for a cat herder, but Lisa is determined to make Pagans more public and provide spaces for them to worship and gather. She's starting a group called the World Temple Alliance for just this purpose. I conducted this interview with her via e-mail.
First and foremost, how did you come up with the idea to form the WTA?
The idea has been nagging at me for years. There are pagan communities all over the country, but there is no Pagan Community no 'whole'... no structure no way to be counted. And it's time we were counted! The return to nature and earth based spirituality has seen exponential growth in the last 20 years. It's time we take our place in the world.
Are there any other organizations like this, if at all?
I am sure that there have been similar attempts to organize the Pagan Community in such a way, however I am also certain it's never been done in this manner and with these goals at the forefront. I am not aware of any current movement such as ours.
What are the goals of the WTA?
The most important goal of the World Temple Alliance is to gather Pagan people of all paths under one big umbrella organization. No two paths are the same, but I believe we can assemble in harmony because of our common thread, that being we are all Pagan. Being an organized group has its advantages, as is evidenced throughout history. There is strength in numbers. We are a minority group of faiths, whether we like it or not, and as such we haven't been taken seriously. Until we unite, we will be seen as a 'fringe group with no specific purpose'. I take that very personally. I would like to change the mindset of those who ridicule those of us that walk a Pagan path. It's time to do this!
And it doesn't matter if prospective members are already Incorporated or have their 501(c3) Status they would still qualify for membership. Nothing would change. They would benefit from the strength that the WTA hopes to provide as an encompassing umbrella organization. A 'Nation' of Pagans, made up of many smaller tribes and individuals alike.
Additionally, one of the most difficult aspects of our spirituality is becoming a legally ordained clergy member, especially for members of smaller covens and groves, and for the solitary. By organizing in this manner, we will have the ability to ordain members that would not otherwise be afforded that option. This is a vitally important aspect of many Pagan paths, and it has been largely ignored.
Many other organizations like this have started and failed. Some have said getting Pagans organized and to agree on things is like herding cats. How will the WTA be different?
I've heard that rumor. I've also heard that this has been tried before, and has never succeeded. And, it's true it hasn't succeeded. Which is why the World Temple Alliance is structuring itself differently. In the past, those that have tried similar ideas have also had the desire to be "King/Queen of Pagandom", as I understand things. That's why the appointment of Delegates is central to the WTA. And, it is time for this to happen.
No longer are we, as Pagans, stuffed in broom closets and back alleys, embarrassed by who and what we are, and how we worship. We're proud to be Pagan! And we don't have to hide it anymore. It's time we became a recognized, organized faith group. (I shudder at the term "religious", so I will use 'faith' instead) So I am hoping that people will realize the benefits of being counted. I also hope everyone will have a surge of Pagan pride, and decide that they want to be seen by the world as valid, and not some fringe group that can never seem to agree on anything or accomplish anything worthwhile because of constant internal conflicts. Unfortunately, that has been the long-held public opinion of the Pagan Community by the rest of the world. I sincerely believe that the World Temple Alliance will assist in lending credibility to all Pagan paths.
We all come from many different paths and many different beliefs. How will the WTA incorporate these beliefs and still be a smoothly run organization?
Differences of opinions will always exist, and even more so when you're talking about a large, diverse group of intelligent, free-thinking people. And, it's healthy for any organization to have a wide variety of experience, knowledge and information to draw upon.
It's been my personal experience that the bickering and backbiting usually comes from the same type of people: those that think their path is the one and only true path to enlightenment, or those that want to be the King/Queen of Pagandom. The sooner everyone realizes how counterproductive that train of thought is, the better we'll all be for it. There is not now, nor will there ever be a "Pope" or "King/Queen" or "Boss" in this organization. There will be titles, of course, as the WTA is being structured just as the major Christian-Judeo Churches and Temples have been.
This is being done to avoid exactly such a situation.
There will be a Board of Directors consisting of 13 members. And there will be two Delegates from each State and US Territory. These will all be volunteer positions, with no salaries or commissions being paid to any Board member or Delegate. That could change in years to come, depending on the momentum we gain, but then it would require ratification by the majority of Delegates.
The WTA will have 'franchises' (for lack of a better term) throughout the world. For example, in the US, we will be United Pagan Temples of America. In the UK, United Pagan Temples of the UK. And so on.
I cannot stress enough that there will be no "Pope of Pagandom" within the WTA or the United Pagan Temples. In order to be franchised, the UPT branches worldwide will have to adhere to one thing only, and that is the core structure of the organization, that being the Delegate system of governing. No one person or one path will be all-powerful. If such a situation should arise within a UPT franchise, their affiliation with the World Temple Alliance will be terminated.
It is still in it's infant stages yet, what more do you have to do?
I am working closely with an attorney who has graciously volunteered his time to make sure that the World Temple Alliance is structured properly, with no one person having control. Control will be equally distributed, and with no specific, dogmatic, restrictive doctrine for members to follow. Each coven, grove, temple, circle, or solitary will be entirely self-governing. Along those lines, there will be Delegates from each State and US Territory. Each Delegate will own a 'vote' on issues concerning the United Pagan Temples of America. The Board of Directors will collectively make decisions that affect the World Temple Alliance based on input gathered and presented by the Delegates.
You mentioned you want to provide a space for Pagans to gather year round. How do you plan to do this?
Yes I would love to see a gathering space eventually. My thoughts run along the lines of a several hundred acre campground and rural village, with year 'round merchants and residents. A vast outdoor Temple. A place that is family-oriented, where covens, groves, circles, and solitaries can gather and ritualize freely without constraint or judgment. A year round moot, if you will.
This is a long-range goal, you understand. It requires money, as does anything else. I would like for it to be of no cost to members once it is operational, which would require initial patronage to such an extent that the WTA is financially stable enough to cover taxes and insurance costs beyond the initial purchase price.
The common thread within Paganism is that the paths are all earth and nature based. So, why not a Temple that is just that nature. No 'sticks and bricks' buildings. No gold-leaf fixtures and solid mahogany pews. No imported stained-glass windows or ornate altars.
Through the generous patronage of members, I hope to accomplish this for the benefit of many future generations of Pagans. I have been a professional Real Estate Broker for many years, and as such I am familiar with land costs. There are still areas of the country, centrally located, that are very inexpensive and pristine. There is an abundance of acreage that borders National Forest land, which would be ideal. It is an attainable goal that I hope everyone can benefit from.
Who is all involved in the WTA?
A complete list of Board Members and Delegates have yet to be compiled, since we are still in our infancy, but we are a quickly growing group of like-minded folks who truly desire the unity of all pagans for the benefit of ourselves and future generations that walk our respective paths. If anyone wishes to become involved, or would like to become a Delegate for their State or Territory, I would ask that they contact me via email at lisaprestegard@hotmail.com with a note expressing their interest and some biographical and geographical information. A complete copy of the Articles of Incorporation and the subsequent Bylaws will be posted within the Yahoo group so that prospective members can make an informed decision for themselves and their covens, groves, and circles.
How does this tie in with the Pagan Headstone Campaign?
I personally am involved with the Pagan Headstone Campaign, and actively support its cause. There are many other members of the PHC that are also members of the World Temple Alliance and the United Pagan Temples of America. However, the groups are not directly affiliated with one another.
A religious (there's that word again!) organization cannot be formed for the sole purpose of lobbying or changing legislation, so please understand that I'd like to keep the issues separate to avoid any conflict in this area.
I would greatly appreciate if everyone would add that link to their personal web pages and email signature to help get the word out. Also, on the Yahoo! Group in the files section on the main page, there is some wonderful original artwork for use in banner links. Help yourself to them :)
Is there a website or a place people can get more information or get involved?
Not yet but it's coming soon! The best place to find information and to be updated on any progress would be the Yahoo! Group at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/United-Pagan-Temples-of-America/ or, folks can send an email to me with any questions they may have at lisaprestegard@hotmail.com
If someone wants to donate towards the WTA, how do they do it? Is it a non-profit?
There is always a need for donations, and especially with the start-up costs running in the thousands of dollars. A PayPal account has been set up, and that email address is UnitedPaganTemples@yahoo.com Any donation, no matter how small, is greatly appreciated. The physical mailing address is as follows: World Temple Alliance, Inc. P.O. Box 990607 Naples FL 34116. Al financial statements will be posted quarterly, beginning with the date of Incorporation, and will be available to the public. The mailing address is the same for the United Pagan Temples of America.
The Incorporation itself should be finalized within the next 4 weeks, and at that time, it will be a legal not-for-profit organization. 501(c3) status will be applied for, just as soon as the Corporation is fully recognized.
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Pagan Parenting
By Shewolf Silver Shadows
Being a Parent is truly an enchanting gift for any man or woman to experience. But the truly magical part is sharing our beautiful spiritual path with our children and teaching them respect, respect of our path as well as respect and tolerance of other spiritual paths as well.
Once children are placed in school, whether it is a public school, or a private school, pre-school or higher levels of learning, they are exposed to many Christian influences. These influences are mostly in the form of holidays such as Christmas and Easter. But there are sometimes moments of prayer, or silence, even the 'Pledge of Allegiance'. These things are celebrated in most of the school systems. And over and over I have seen many pagan parents take offence at these holidays or moments being seemingly forced upon their precious pagan child.
Well, as a parent you can be offended that your little ones are being repeatedly exposed to the mainstream religion of Christianity and Judaism, or you can begin to look at this in a different light. Instead of seeing it as some form of society trying to force a different spiritual path upon your child, why not look at it in a manner of being educational for your child? I mean, to truly be tolerant it helps to understand, and how better to understand then to learn about what it is that is not understood. In this case, the main stream religions in the form of Christmas and Easter, or your child saying the word God instead of Gods.
You may argue, well, why should my child learn the Christian ways, and be subjected to this when most Christians will not try to learn our Pagan ways? Simple, two wrongs will never make one right! And if we as pagan parents are first accepting and tolerant, to a point, our children will learn this from seeing these qualities in us, their parents. Hopefully Christians and others will see these qualities in us as well and strive to be more tolerant and understand because of our examples.
As I said these holidays and the conversations, and lessons and even television shows that go with them can be educational to your children. To know of and to have a decent understanding of other spiritual paths is a good thing, it offers insight and balance, and hopefully tolerance.
So, the next time you get upset that your child is required to say the National Anthem, or Pledge of Allegiance, simply because it has the word 'god' in it, just remember folks, it never says, who's god, or which god. And for the Atheist out there, if you do not believe in a god, then it should not matter if once and a while you say the word.
Please know that this is meant in an educational and tolerant manner. It is not always easy to be parents, but as Pagan parents, it is up to us as individuals to try to teach our children tolerance so that the future will be blessed with hopefully even more tolerance, even if only a small amount more.
Protect the children, for they are the future of our world. Teach them of this magical earth so that they too can protect it for future generations. For it is the Pagan Parents that can truly make a difference.
Pagan Parenting Tip:
What an amazing time it is when a parent shares the magic of tools with their child, but what a truly magical time it is when the child is ready for his or her own tools! But how do you find tools for children? Are children really ready to use tools? Well, of course you will not want to give a four-year old an Athame, or a pack of matches, but there are some young children that do understand the concept and can be reasonably responsible with a few tools such as a wand, or crystals and stones.
If you live in or near the country, or a place of nature with trails and such great! But if you happen to be one of the millions that do not, I would suggest you visit your local Park, or nearby lakes, that are available to the public. It is wonderful to go on a little adventure with your child allowing them to find the perfect stick upon the ground that can be their own special wand. And while looking for this special wand, you could point out bits of nature, a bug here, maybe see where a bunny or even a snake disappears into some brush somewhere else. Talk about the birds and squirrels and other wildlife you may see, turn this tool adventure into a nature lesson as well, a lesson in life and learning for your child.
The point is, when it is time for your own child to have tools, then maybe you won't want to just run out and get his or her first ones from a store. Instead, share in the magical experience of being there with them to discover their magical tools in the loving arms of Mother Nature.
Childrens/Prarents Prayer to Greet the Sun Morning :
Good Morning Sun
By Cathy -Shewolf Silver Shadows
Good morning sun, what a beautiful day,
Good morning sun, thanks for brightening my day.
Good morning Mother Nature, I want to thank you
For the trees, the flowers and the animals too.
Good morning Father Sky I want to thank you too,
For the birds and the breezes and the morning dew.
Good morning sun thanks for this magickal day.
Protect us and guide us as we go on our way.
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Coloring Page
-By Bobi aka ShadowWolf
In each balanced and magical edition of Whispers of the Witch Within Newsletter Bobi is sharing some of her beautiful art work for the children and parents alike to print out and color. We hope you enjoy this issues coloring page. To view it please click here.
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Back to Basics: Discovering Nature
By Cathy Shewolf Silver Shadows
You may ask why is discovering nature important to Wicca or Witchcraft. Nature is important to all Pagan religions and paths in some way or another. Nature is truly the essence of our ways, the very soul and breath of our spirituality or way of life.
Witchcraft is a way of life that has its very foundations rooted deeply within the earth and the mysteries of Mother Nature Herself. Wicca is a 'Nature Religion'. Everything that is Witchcraft or Wicca is in some manner, dealing with or part of nature.
I will not go into physics here but to break nature down to a simple level you will find things called cells, atoms, neutrons, protons and electrons and these things are moving, swapping, changing and exchanging parts, and bumping into each other all of the time. This moving and bumping creates a vibration at even the smallest level, and vibration is equivalent to energy! Energy that we can draw on, feel and share as well as return to the environment around us.
Scientists have discovered that there is a vibration even in the blood of humans. Vibrations, or energies that we can all draw upon, are energies that you will soon learn to attune yourself to. There is a multitude of vibrations surrounding all of us. These vibrations or energies are all part of the whole, and separate at the same time.
I think I read an Anne Rice book one time, one of the Vampire Chronicles or Witching hour set, and it mentioned in the end of that book about a net, an infinite net, that covers every thing and connects every thing, all things big and small. Like a huge invisible spider web that connects all things and this net was pulsing with energies and life. Perhaps this net is really there, tying us all together and tying us all to nature, to magic, to the divine? Maybe this net is apart of all of us and we are all apart of it, being that we are all apart of the whole. It is something to think about; a net of life, or vibrations, or creations?
Whether these vibrations are a part of a net or spirit or science it probably does not matter, what matters is that you learn to discover these energies. But first you need to know where to look for those energies right?
Nature and the energies within nature are all around you - literally! The air you breathe, the water you drink and bath in, the ground you walk upon be it concrete or packed earth, there is energy with in it. The fire you use to heat with or cook your foods by, all of these things hold this energy. It is and of nature.
Not only are these energies important for you to discover, but also the fact that true and most basic spirituality is found in nature. So, to truly discover and know the spirituality of Witchcraft, or the Religion of Wicca, you must first discover Nature. Embrace Nature and respect Nature.
How do you do this? Each of us will do this in our own ways, but a good starting place is discovering the Elements, each Element - Earth, Air, Fire, Water and even Self/Akasha. Truly getting to know one on one up and close and personal, each synchronicity of each Element. Do this by touch, sight, smell, and by hearing and really listening.
An excellent manner in which to learn to listen is through meditation. Learn to quiet your inner self and block out the hustle and bustle of the outside world with all its stress and stimulants.
What follows is a very simple meditation exercise. It is recommended that you discover what works best for you on an individual level.
Find a place that you can sit down and not be disturbed by the phone or outside noises, your friends, or children or spouse. Close your eyes and relax. Start with you toes and wiggle them around, and just relax them. Work up to the arches on each foot, and your heals, the human foot bears the total weight of our stress filled days as does our ankles, so pay special attention to your feet and ankles when relaxing. Move up to your calves and flex them, then relax them, same as with your knees, all joints hold stress, so pay attention to joints when releasing tension and relaxing. Work on up through your thigh, your lower abdomen and back, your chest, neck, arms head, even your facial muscles hold tension and stress, so relax them all. Then move to your back, paying special attention to your shoulders and the place between your shoulder blades when relaxing. Once you feel as if you are nice and relaxed then try to quiet your mind. Funny how when you try to think of nothing, you can think of a million things, so this quieting your mind may take a bit of practice.
Once you have found that quiet place, then slowly start to listen to the whispers around you. Listen to what the world, nature, and the Gods and Goddesses may be trying to share with you. Listen to your own inner-self, and learn from what your soul can share with you.
By meditating only a few moments a day you can start becoming aware of things that you have been letting just slip by with out paying attention to them. You can start knowing your own inner-self better. And you can start getting back to the basics, the basics of knowing whom you are, and truly appreciating the world around you.
This will be an ongoing article on ways to, you guessed it, get back to basics. Our ancestor's did not have to worry about the hustle and bustle, the noise and the stresses that fill our average day. Our ancestor's worked the earth, worked with nature, day in and day out. They had a 24/7 relationship with Mother Earth, and Sky Father, unlike us today. Today there are many that do not even see a tree in a day, others that work as part of nature that never even take notice of it. This article will give bits and piece each segment on how to rediscover nature, and the basics of our spiritual path.
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The Magical Garden - Alder
By Summer
Alder is probably one of our lesser-known herbs, however I wanted to include it because I have seen it growing by the creek bed all my life. All plants have a use; often we just are not wise enough to discern the use.
The following information is derived from various sources and I am not a medical professional. Please use caution when ingesting substances that you are not familiar with.
Alder grows both in the US and England and has been used medicinally since 150 ad. . It is being studied to fight cancer. It is antifungal, cathartic, and depurative, anti-arthritis. . Other uses are constipation, gallstones, gout, hemorrhoids, herpes, jaundice, lead poisoning, and pulmonary edema. The bark is the part most often used.
The wood is very hard and durable. The wood has been used for nails, shoes, and veneer.
The following exert is from:
From Grandpa's Online Book of Shadows - http://grandpasgeneral.com/boswood.html
The Alder is the tree of fire. In the battle of the trees, the Alder fought in the very front line. It is described as the very "battle witch" of all woods, the tree that is hottest in the fight. From the alder, you can make three different dyes, red from its bark, green from its flowers, and brown from its twigs; this symbolizes the elements of fire, water and earth. The Alder wood is the wood of the witches. Whistles may be made of this wood to summon and control the four winds. It is also the ideal wood for making the magical pipes and flutes. To prepare the wood for use, beat the bark away with a willow stick while projecting your wishes into it. The Alder is a token of resurrection.
OCCULT ASPECTS: Controlling the four winds, banishing and controlling elementals, resurrection. Making magical dyes.
As with anything magical, there is controversy, another reference says it symbolizes water, which considering where it grows is very possible. It also is used for strength and that is easily understandable, given the strength of the wood.
There are many ways to use herbs some of the most common are:
Extracts and Tinctures
Soaking herbs in alcohol mixed or stirred often then strained for future use makes them.
Tea
Fresh or dried herbs may be used in teas. Pour 1 cup of boiling water over the herb and allow steeping for ten minutes. Roots, seeds, bark etc. must be simmered for ten minutes. Strain and use.
Ointments:
Mix herbs in petroleum jelly or wax to make the herb adhere to skin.
Creams include water, glycerin etc and do not just sit on top of the skin.
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Stone Stories
By Whyte Wolf
As Ostara is approaching, I thought it would be appropriate to go over the crystals that are associated with this Esbat. As you may know, Ostara is the celebration of the Spring Equinox and will be celebrated this year on Saturday, March 20th.
Many people use crystals in their rituals, and since these crystals are also used for other purposes throughout the year, I will detail the properties associated with both the daily usage as well their ritual association.
Depending on the source, the crystal associations may vary, so I have chosen the crystals that are the most common between all the sources.
Clear Quartz Crystal is probably one of the most versatile of all the crystals. It can be used in cleansing/purification rituals, for grounding of oneself, absorbing negative energy or for scrying and divination. It is also the most commonly used crystal in the making of Crystal Balls because of its clarity. It is said that this crystal also can be used to store energy or knowledge for use at a later time. When used for healing, it enhances the crystalline properties of the blood and activates the pituitary and pineal glands. Crystals can stimulate brain functions and are great worry stones. It balances the emotions and absorbs the negativity in one's surroundings and self. Crystals are also used and associated with all of the Chakras.
Garnet: Garnets come in many varying colors, but the most common are red and green. The red variety can be dyed to enhance its color, so it is wise to wash them prior to wearing to ensure that the dye does not stain your skin or clothes. Both colors repel negativity, grant courage and confidence, create a defensive aura and guard against depression. It has a strong affinity with the root chakra, as it helps to harmonize the forces of kundalini. It is also the only stone thought to have both protective and destructive powers. Knights in medieval times wore garnets on their breastplates and they thought the stones would guide them through battle to safety, however, some ancient Asian forces added garnet to their bullets as it was thought that the garnet would increase the enormity of the wound inflicted. The Garnet is known as a "Stone of health". It stimulates and adjusts the flow of energy as it is predisposed to discourage chaotic, disruptive or disorganized growth. The Garnet's energy can be used to stimulate antibodies within the bloodstream and thereby strengthening the afflicted person. In spellwork the Garnet is associated with love, strength, courage, confidence and fertility.
Lapis Lazuli is a lilac/blue stone mottled with white spots or bands. It has many attributes, both associated with healing and magical workings. In healing it is used to overcome depression, strengthening the skeleton and thyroid, banishing of headaches, curing insomnia and relieving inflammation. It is also said to assist those with speech delays/disorders, autism, lymphatic and pituitary disorders. In magical workings Lapis Lazuli is associated with strength (physical and emotional), wisdom, mental clarity, protection, dream insight, ESP, creativity and knowledge.
It is said that Lapis was used to dye the robes of Mary, and it mentioned in the Book of the Dead. It was also sacred to the Egyptian Goddess Mut and the Babylonian Goddess Ishtar.
Rose Quartz is a pink semi-transparent stone which often has crystalline speckles throughout. Commonly referred to as the "Love Stone" Rose Quartz is a valuable addition to any witches collection. This stone is most commonly associated with the Heart Chakra. It is known to bring peacefulness, harmony, love, clarity to ones' emotions, compassion, self confidence and forgiveness. It also aids in the release of stored anger, anxiety, jealousy, and resentment. When used in healing, it aids the circulatory system, clears the blood and body of impurities and stimulates function of the kidneys. Rose Quartz is also believed to increase fertility.
There are many other stones which can be associated with Ostara, all of the share many of the same attributes as those listed here. Spring is a time of rebirth, love and renewed clarity, as shown by the choices of the crystals associated with it.
Next months article will detail Aventurine, also known as Adventurine. Hope to see you there! Very Special Thanks Go To The Following Websites For Their Insight, Information And Guidance:
http://newmoonoccultshop.com/gem_lore.htm
http://www.stonetigerjewelry.com/information/meanings.html
http://www.sfheart.com/stones_3.html
http://www.cedarseed.com/air/gemstones.html#adventurine
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Cleansing Your Crystals
By Whyte Wolf SilverDragon
Crystals are an important tool of many witches. They can be used for protection, healing, divination and more. Many Deities have a special connection with particular crystals, and using these crystals during a ritual or spell can enhance the effects.
One very important step in utilizing crystals is cleansing them. There is more to cleansing them than simply rinsing them off with water. This may remove the dirt but it does not effectively remove the residual energies that are left from others handling the stone. Every time a stone is handled it picks up vibrations and energies of that person and you may not wish to have those energies present during spell or ritual work.
There are several ways to effectively cleanse your stones, and they are relatively simple. It can be done for the most part at anytime, but I choose to cleanse and charge my crystals and stones during a full moon because of the sheer power of that night. If you have just acquired some new crystals or stones and are anxious to use them then that's fine as well. Do what feels right to you.
My favorite way to cleanse my stones and crystals is to sit outside on the night of a full moon with my crystals and incense and a black candle. I also have some holy water that I have made specifically for this purpose. I take each crystal one by one, dip it into the holy water saying "Spirit of water, remove all energy from this gift of earth and make it mine. Energize it with the power that is thine". Then I pass the crystal through the flame of the candle and say "Spirit of fire, remove all energy from this gift of earth and make it mine. Energize it with the power that is thine." After that, I pass it through the smoke of the incense and say "Spirit of Air remove all energy from this gift of earth and make it mine. Energize it with the power that is thine."
I then lay the crystal on an altar cloth and let it soak up the light of the full moon overnight.
There are other ways to cleanse your crystals and stones as well:
1. Using Spring Water (note, many of the bottles of spring water that are sold in stores are not true spring water. They are in fact purified and ozonated tap water.) Hold the crystal under the running water and say "Element of water, remove all energy and negativity from this stone." Let the crystal soak in the water for 24 hours.
2. Place sea salt into a container made of natural materials such as wood, ceramic or clay. Plastic is not a preferred vessel for this as it is man made and can absorb and trap energies rather than let them pass through. Bury your crystal or stone in the sea salt and let it remain there for 3 days. **Note** Salt may damage crystals like Opals. In this case place the crystal in a glass dish or votive holder and then place into the salt. This will protect your stone and cleanse it.
3. Using a smudge stick, such as sage or cedar pass your crystal through the smoke. Pass it through several times envisioning the energies being released and leaving the crystal via the smoke.
4. Dig a small hole in the earth just large enough for your crystal. Cover the crystal with earth. Leave buried for 4-6 hours or longer depending on the energies you felt. Be sure to leave a marker where you buried it so you can find it again. For those who live in apartments or condominiums, this can be done by burying it in a flowerpot.
5. If you are in a hurry and need the crystal immediately, you can use your own breath to cleanse it. Holding the Crystal in your fingers, close your eyes and meditate for a moment. Call upon either your favorite deity or your higher self, and envision their breath becoming your own. Gently blow on the crystal and envision the energy leaving the crystal and scattering to the four winds.
After cleansing your crystals you are now ready to program them. This will be covered in next month's issue of Whispers Of The Witch Within newsletter.
Until then, Merry Part. Special Thanks To:
http://www.neatstuff.net/avalon/texts/know-how.html#cleansing
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Moon Madness
By Sarrah
"How the Moon Affects Us and the Biological Tides Theory"
In our first article in this series we discussed the phases of the moon. In this article we will discuss a little about how these phases affect us as human beings.
For the benefit of those who missed the first article I will summarize the first article. The moon itself has a 29 1/2-day cycle, also called the lunar month, and goes through eight different phases: the New Moon, the Waxing Crescent, the First Quarter, the Waxing Gibbous, the Full Moon, the Waning Gibbous, the Last Quarter, and the Waning Crescent. The shape of the moon in each of these phases is directly related to the position the moon is in with relation to the earth and the Sun. The New Moon begins in darkness and occurs when the moon is in-between the earth and the sun, causing it to be invisible to us. As the moon begins to move through its cycle, at one degree per two hours, we begin to see a crescent of light until it increases to a solid white circle, which is known as the Full Moon. As the moon now continues through the remainder of its cycle, we begin to see the moon decreasing in light, or waning, until it is once again invisible to us and a new cycle begins with another New Moon.
Now let us get into the reasons why the cycles of the moon affect us as human beings; a little science first before we delve into the specific ways the moon affects us.
Through biology, we all know the composition of the human body is very similar to that of the earth. As a matter of fact, the human body is approximately 80% water and 20% solids just like the earth. We also know the earth is surrounded by an electromagnetic field, which comes from the electromagnetic radiation of the sun. Now, since the moon is moving at a rate of one degree per two hours during its' lunar cycle, the earth's electromagnetic field is constantly being affected and changed by the moon's gravitational pull. Therefore, it is only natural that human beings, as well as all other living and non-living things, inhabiting the earth would also be affected by the changes in the electromagnetic field. This effect on humans takes place in the nervous system by one, altering the electrical conditioning properties of the nerves themselves, and two, changing the neural firing. It is therefore also safe to say, since the moon has a gravitational pull on the water of the earth thus causing the ebb and flow of the ocean tides, the moon must also have a gravitational pull on the human body's supply of water, causing for example, more fluid retention during a Full Moon.
These affects on the human body are called the "biological tides."
So far we have discussed the different cycles of the moon and the science of how the moon's gravitational pull affects both the earth and the human body, but we have yet to discuss specifically what effects we may encounter.
Ah Hah! Without further delay, let's move on to this fun and intriguing part of the article!
As human beings, the individual changes that we encounter from the gravitational pull of the moon depends on two things; whether or not the human body receives these gravitational pulls positively or negatively, and on the status of our physical and emotional health at the time. In general it has been shown through lunar observations that lunar highs occur when the moon is in the same sign as your sun sign and lunar lows occur when the moon is in the sign opposite your sun sign. The lunar high time is when you feel your best and is generally a good time to begin new projects where as your lunar low time is when you feel your worst and is generally not a good time to make decisions or start new projects.
As was mentioned earlier in our discussion, fluid retention and changes in our neural firing are quite common during the Full Moon. In physically and emotionally healthy individuals this fluid retention is quite mild and the changes in neural firing may only develop into slight headaches, mild depression, irritability, or insomnia, all of which go away as fast as they came on. In physically and emotionally unhealthy individuals however, this fluid retention and change in neural firing remains for longer periods of time and can increase the pain and discomfort of the already vulnerable state of the body.
For those skeptics out there, research has been done in the field of human biochemistry relating to this issue. This research has found that serotonin, a heart accelerating substance, is found in increased amounts in the blood immediately following a New Moon and Full Moon. This increased amount of serotonin can also cause fluid retention and differences in neural firing, which can cause nervous tension, irritability and insomnia.
In some individuals who are already inclined to violence, the changes in neural firing during the cycle of the moon can increase a person's already violent behavior, specifically surrounding the New and Full Moons. In most individuals aggressive behavior is increased during the Full and New Moons however, in a smaller group of individuals aggressive behavior is actually decreased causing a more calm and relaxed feeling. So here again we see that depending on how the body receives the pulls of the moon, either positively or negatively, changes the type of affect they have on the behavior of the individual. According to research, if the gravitational pull on the human body is being received in a positive manner, then an increase in aggressive behavior will occur. Conversely, if the human body receives the pulls in a negative manner, a decrease in aggressive behavior will occur.
Below you will find a short list of some of the patterns found from the research completed on the different forms of aggressive behavior and the cycles of the moon.
1. Aggravated assaults peak around the full moon.
2. A secondary peak in aggravated assaults shortly before the new moon.
3. Violence directed against others peaks around the full moon.
4. A secondary peak of violence also occurred around the new moon.
5. Fatal traffic accidents peak between the first quarter and full moons and again at the last quarter moon.
. Psychiatric emergency room visits peak around the first and last quarter moons, with a significant decrease at the new and the full moons.
7. Homicide rates peak at the full moon, with a secondary peak at the new moon.
Now what can we do with all of this newfound knowledge?
Well, first let us listen to what the moon is telling us and learn what it is she wants us to know. Since the moon and its' cycle affects us all, why not use the lunar calendar to the best of our abilities. Historically, many ancient civilizations used lunar calendars and some civilizations still do. Looking at these civilizations and their crime rate today, there is a lower incidence of violent crime than societies that use solar calendars alone.
Ideally, using a calendar that has both lunar cycles and solar cycles is the best alternative because it would give us the best of both worlds. By using this calendar we would know in advance the days of the moon's cycle where we can expect increases in our own as well as others' irritability or aggressiveness and can adjust our plans to compensate or avoid unwanted altercations. Ultimately, being aware of the moon's influence on the earth and our human bodies, can only assist us in being able to live in harmony with nature, all its' glories, and other living creatures.
Resources:
Astrology Now; http://www.astrologynow.com/about.Astrology.htm; © 1998 by East-West Astrology Education Partners; The name Astrology Now is used with the cooperation of astrologer Noel Tyl, copyright owner and originator of the celebrated astrology magazine of the 1970s. This web site, AstrologyNow, presents as well the practical values of personalized astrological information.
