Witchy PSA for noobs, et al
I’ve been practicing now for almost 3 years. As i was working outside in the yard, this stuff came to me. Things that I wish I’d known when I started.
Background on me - former fundamentalist Christian and minister. Became an atheist for 3 years and then became a pagan. Another story for another post.
1. Witchcraft is NOT EVIL. Regardless of what you have been told (and don’t just believe the entry-level patriarchal history) there isn’t anything evil about witchcraft. Most witches don’t believe in the devil character (he only exists in fundamentalist religious scriptures to keep the masses in line) and most witches don’t do things considered by others to be evil. Period. See #2.
2. Witchcraft is not black, white, yellow, etc. Magic is all about intention. For my practice, I work with all kinds of spells, sigils, etc. If you don’t want to hex, you don’t have to (and if you don’t want to, you prolly shouldn’t try). If you want to create your best life, just like with healthy eating and exercise, you can learn to change your thinking and speaking to line up with that life. What you intend and focus on is the basis of the magic. It’s really no different than when ppl pray, except you don’t have to invoke a deity if you don’t wish. There are ppl who label magic and that’s fine, but in the scheme of things it is all about the person.
3. Witchcraft is individual. Ever tried a spell that just didn’t work? I certainly have - consider with me that perhaps that spell wasn’t for you. Every single witch is different. Literally. Some cast circles; some don’t. Some work with candles; others don’t. Some work with the moon; others don’t….(you get it) Don’t let someone else’s spellcraft make you feel like you can’t practice magic. Don’t quit! Keep trying what makes sense to YOU. Even if its a simple whisper with your eyes closed - INTENT.
4. You can be a boy and be a witch. Wow, if I had a dollar for the vitriol and hate that I received when I came into the craft, I’d be a millionaire. I’m a middle-aged man who works in the business world. I have walked into witchy shops and was asked to leave based on my appearance. Don’t judge anyone based on appearances - and IT IS OK NOT TO LIKE OTHERS. You get to choose the energy that you allow in. Boy, girl, other, non-binary, everyone is welcomed within the craft. Respect goes a very long way. And the divine feminine is confident and strong enough to allow the sacred masculine within her bounds.
5. Witchcraft is a PRACTICE. You MUST work at it to get better! Do you have to cast spells every day? Nope. Do you have to summon spirits and have a familiar? Nada. So what does that mean? Learn as much as you can. A witch who knows it all will fail. Period. Even if it’s just meditating for a few minutes during a very busy week, take that short time to stay in touch with yourself.
6. Witchcraft is about SELF-CARE. Witches must be mindful of their bodies, their minds, and their spirits. Take the time to recharge - spells, meditation, etc - they drain your energy to no bounds. Be in tune with yourself and detox all of the negative thoughts, foods, drinks, etc that keep you from functioning at your happiest.
7. Witchcraft is powerful. You are literally using energy to change your life. It works. It’s real. And you must treat it with the care that you would learning to drive a car or use powerful machinery. It goes back to learning all that you can. You’ll find your perfect fit.
8. Witchcraft is fun. It’s so great when you see the influences of the craft come to fruition in your life. You’ll see that you can change things. And it can make you happier. And you get to look at ppl with that “I know secrets” look.
9. Witchcraft takes maturity. Not AGE, mind you, but being smart enough to keep what’s in the circle, in the circle. No one needs to know about what You Do but you and maybe a coven or group of friends that you trust. But remember that witchcraft is extremely personal and be smart with your tongue.
I ran thru this and please add whatever you like. Thanks for reading and blessed be to all the witches, pagans, heathens (and anyone that I may have forgotten!) and their friends.
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