healing

Why did the God and Goddess allow this Administration into the White House?

/ Moonwater / 2 Comments

 

How did God and Goddess allow the current administration to darken the White House? We keep hearing reports of so many people hurt by the actions of this current administration. Wiccans I’ve talked with, express their concern about this administration’s devastating effects on the environment. (If you’re curious, NationalGeographic.com has a list of changes noted here.

Perhaps, you’re similar to me, and you really wonder how God and Goddess would allow terrible things to happen.

Upon reflection, I’ve noted that Wiccans can use terrible events and related details as turning points in our feelings and understanding.

In tough times like these, we can:

  • Know what we stand for
  • Know what we want
  • Band together in a time of strife
  1. Begin to know what we stand for

Having someone tear apart our home, families, communities, and environment helps us realize what is important to us. We need to save our Mother Earth. In so doing, we will save ourselves. Certainly, I feel it’s my duty to vote to protect the good that still exists in this country.

Having an opponent (someone tearing down much that is good) helps many marginalized groups stand together. Wiccans can stand together for protecting the environment and communities at risk. We need to vote in line with our principles and stand up to those who wish to remain careless with our Mother Earth.

  1. Start to know what we want

Knowing what we stand for helps us realize the value of what we want. If we can find common bonds, we can make great progress towards solving many of today’s problems.

I really value many things including peace, a healthy environment, a strong community, and safety. I believe many other people hold these values, too.

Recently, I was talking with a family member. We noted that when you say “I want this”—there can be an underlying value. If I say, “I want safety,” I can notice that I also value the freedom from worry and anxiety, which would cloud my time to meditate and connect with the God and Goddess.

  1. Band together in a time of strife

A while ago, I was part of a peaceful demonstration that was held in front Congresswoman Anna Eschoo’s office. This was about health care. I was glad to participate.

I realize that each one of us can be called to help with making things better with some issue.

Perhaps, that’s part of why God and Goddess didn’t intervene with the current administration’s darkening of the White House.

Blessed Be,
Moonwater

Looking for gifts?

PentagramWheel2

See my designs at Redbubble. For more of Moonwater SilverClaw, consider some of her books:

 

 

Goddess Style Weight Loss: Wiccans — Happy, Healthy and Confident

 Try My Online Course

Break Free with Goddess: Wiccans – How You Can Get Free of Worry, Illness and Anxiety and Enjoy Abundance, Health and Confidence

Be a Wiccan Badass: Become More Confident and Unleash Your Inner Power

Goddess Reveals Your Enchanted Light: Peace, Prosperity, Possibility Along Your Wiccan Path

Real Magick

Beyond the Law of Attraction to Real Magic: How You Can Remove Blocks to Prosperity, Happiness and Inner Peace

Goddess Has Your Back

Goddess Has Your Back: How Wicca Can Help You Raise Your Self-Esteem and Make Your Life Magickal

 

The Hidden Children of the Goddess Book

The Hidden Children of the Goddess Embrace Wicca, Become Strong, Be at Peace with Yourself and the World Around You

Goddess Walks Beside You: How You Can Listen, Learn and Enjoy the Wiccan Path

Goddess Style Weight Loss: Wiccans — Happy, Healthy and Confident

P.S. To sign up for our E-Newsletter click here.

Check out my site MoonwaterSilverClaw.com  for spells and more.

 

Wicca and Healing Childhood Trauma

/ Moonwater / Leave a comment
Sunrise

The Light Grows

How is your health?

Researchers note how extreme and terrible childhood experiences can affect our health and journey throughout life.

If you endured abuse or neglect as a child, it is possible to heal, and Wicca can make a vital difference for you.

I’ve written about how Wicca empowered me to leave an abusive marriage.

How was I vulnerable to fall into an abusive marriage? As you can imagine, I had experienced a previous pattern of abuse—as a child.

Researchers refer to abuse and neglect that is inflected on young people as Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE).

I recently viewed a TED Talk by Dr. Nadine Burke Harris on the topic “How Childhood Trauma Affects Health Across a Lifetime.” (Click here to view the 16-minute video.)

In her work at a clinic in Hunters Point, San Francisco, Dr. Nadine observed that households had various elements that affected the children (including violence, neglect, substance abuse, family member incarceration, and more).

Dr. Nadine, in her TED Talk, noted that many of her medical colleagues in her audience would also respond that they had Adverse Childhood Experiences. Dr. Nadine concluded that this not just a problem in low social-economic neighborhoods. This is a nationwide health problem.

How Wiccans Can Heal

As Wiccans, we have tools to help us deal with stress we have now or the residual effects of childhood trauma. What are these tools?

Meditation

  • We can talk with the God and Goddess and ask for guidance.

Candle Magick

  • We can do candle magick to heal and create peace in our lives.

Chanting

  • We can chant and use our intense feelings to create positive change.

Prayer

  • We can ask the God and Goddess through meditation for Their help.
  • We can also open an internal dialogue with God and Goddess*

* You could simply begin with “Goddess, please help me heal and be free of trauma of my past. What can I do today to nurture myself?” At this point, wait and listen for internal guidance bestowed by the Goddess. You might get immediate guidance or receive Goddess’ guidance some time later.

Learn to Shift When Helpless Feelings Arise

A major problem caused by Adverse Childhood Experiences is that we regress. We fall back into helpless feelings that were natural to feel as a child.

We, as Wiccan adults, can now be the kind caregivers we did not have.

You can, with help from God and Goddess, take much better care of yourself now.

The point is to not stay in helpless feelings you felt while you were traumatized as a child. These feelings of overwhelm are still relevant today—perhaps, even in this moment for you. Remind yourself of MCCP (meditation, candle magic, chanting and prayer). Help yourself shift out of feelings of overwhelm.

Remember, it is possible to heal!

Blessed Be,
Moonwater

P.S. If you’re curious about you own ACE score, you could take this quiz.

If you note that you have a significant score, take action to care for yourself.

I found that my score is “4.” I do a lot to stay stronger and healthier

(including support from a therapist, doctors, my husband, family, friends, exercise, Wiccan Rituals to connect with God and Goddess … and more).

What do you need to heal and stay strong, my friend?

 

Looking for gifts?

PentagramWheel2

See my designs at Redbubble. For more of Moonwater SilverClaw, consider some of her books:

Be a Wiccan Badass: Become More Confident and Unleash Your Inner Power

As a Wiccan I found this an inspiring read. Written in a way that makes it accessible to everyone irrespective of their current knowledge. – Shona Cathro

 

 

Goddess Reveals Your Enchanted Light: Peace, Prosperity, Possibility Along Your Wiccan Path

I don’t generally write reviews on books I’ve read…but this time i feel lead to. This book spoke volumes to me, as if the author knew exactly where I’m coming from and what I’m struggling with. It’s not often a book can make me cry, but this one did by making me see the many blocks I’ve put up in my life. I knew they were there, but I’ve gotten skilled at pretending they’re not. Thank you for helping me see I’m not some freak because of circumstances throughout my life that have caused the blocks, and that i need to stop hiding from or burying them and face them one step at a time. – Crystal Sparks

 

Real Magick

Beyond the Law of Attraction to Real Magic: How You Can Remove Blocks to Prosperity, Happiness and Inner Peace

This book is a must have for all of those starting out on the spiritual path of Wicca and for all of those who are just looking for some light and love in their life. MoonWater SilverClaw uses her knowledge of Wicca and her personal experiences to not only teach the Law of Attraction in a clear manner but to help you use the Law of Attraction to better your life.

Through simple guided meditations and tips on living a happy healthy life this book takes you on a journey that will teach you how to love yourself, better your self image, and rid yourself of the negative energies that prevent you from reaching your goals.

This book covers many wonderful topics that will teach you basic magical practices as well as the theory and idea of “like attracts like” From setting up an alter to casting a circle and how to perform and find the magick that you are seeing in your life this book has so much to offer.

MoonWater SilverClaw is truly an inspirational writer for a newer generation of Wiccans and those seeking to use the natural energies of the earth to make changes in their life. Her writing style speaks from the heart because she has been where the reader is, she has used these techniques and steps to better her own life and now she is helping the reader use the Law of Attraction to better theirs – Amazon Customer

 

Goddess Has Your Back

Goddess Has Your Back: How Wicca Can Help You Raise Your Self-Esteem and Make Your Life Magickal

This is an absolute gem for the witch with issues. Rituals for things like self-esteem are something i have never seen before. Moonwater’s writing is engrossing and draws the reader in. I am a witch with PTSD M.S. and other issues and this book made me feel hopeful and capable. – t’air

 

The Hidden Children of the Goddess Book

The Hidden Children of the Goddess Embrace Wicca, Become Strong, Be at Peace with Yourself and the World Around You

Ms. SilverClaw has written a book that is really great for the beginner wanting to learn about Wiccan or wants to start practicing the art of Wicca. I found this book wonderful, easy to read, and extremely helpful and informative. It covers everything from what Wicca is, the history of Wicca and how Wicca became misassociated with evil, along with how Wicca can help/save people’s lives. Ms. SilverClaw also discusses practicing Wicca either in a Coven or Solo, and all the things you need in order to have in order to perform your ceremony, and she explains what each item means. She explains how to create spells and gives examples to use, and explains the pitfalls of creating certain types of spells. Ms. SilverClaw has truly created a book that is a cast all net the seems to cover everything that I needed to know to begin practicing Wicca. I highly recommend this book to anyone who is searching for their first book on the topic and wants to start practicing the art of Wicca or is just curious about the topic. This is truly a Must Have book. – Tamra L. Shipman

 

 

Goddess Walks Beside You: How You Can Listen, Learn and Enjoy the Wiccan Path

This is a terrific book! It is like talking to the author over a cup of tea like one of the bloggers says. –  Kitri

 

 

P.S. To sign up for our E-Newsletter click here.

 

When the World Around You is Crazy

/ Moonwater / Leave a comment

What to do? Doesn’t it feel like the whole world has gone off the deep end? With people getting bombed to the political unrest in America, we now find ourselves in complete world chaos.

I am sooo stressed that I have been eating things I shouldn’t. Even my immediate surroundings are inundated with drama. For example, some of my friends have broken up their lifelong friendships.

Certain moments of the day, I feel torn apart. I need to be in three places at once: Helping my sweetheart … and … helping a friend with moving … and … helping another friend with a BIG project. Even my parents are having a difficult time.

I admit it. My cheat days are too close together. I was on a great trend of dropping weight, but in the last two days I’ve fallen back and gained 3 pounds!

So, when it feels like the world has fallen apart, what do we do?

It’s time to turn to the God and Goddess for strength. It’s important to do some real self-care. Why? When you’re a mess, you don’t have the energy to be helpful to anyone else. It’s time to slow down, meditate and find your inner calmness.

How do we do that? You can light some incense and play some pleasant calming music as a first step. Next, practice the process of grounding. Bring your awareness back into the quiet center in yourself. Concentrate on your breath and begin to meditate. Call upon the God and Goddess for the strength to not only endure, but, to thrive with peace in your heart and mind at this stressful time.

Once you have done this, you may want to take a ritual bath. In this way you will shed the unhealthy energy from your body and spirit.

Afterwards, eating something nutritious will also help you ground.  Take your time and enjoy the process.

Caring for yourself is a vital key to helping others. Find the peace that resides within you, and share such positive energy with other people.

Blessed Be,
Moonwater

 

Looking for gifts?

PentagramWheel2

See my designs at Redbubble. For more of Moonwater SilverClaw, consider some of her books:

Be a Wiccan Badass: Become More Confident and Unleash Your Inner Power

As a Wiccan I found this an inspiring read. Written in a way that makes it accessible to everyone irrespective of their current knowledge. – Shona Cathro

 

 

Goddess Reveals Your Enchanted Light: Peace, Prosperity, Possibility Along Your Wiccan Path

I don’t generally write reviews on books I’ve read…but this time i feel lead to. This book spoke volumes to me, as if the author knew exactly where I’m coming from and what I’m struggling with. It’s not often a book can make me cry, but this one did by making me see the many blocks I’ve put up in my life. I knew they were there, but I’ve gotten skilled at pretending they’re not. Thank you for helping me see I’m not some freak because of circumstances throughout my life that have caused the blocks, and that i need to stop hiding from or burying them and face them one step at a time. – Crystal Sparks

 

Real Magick

Beyond the Law of Attraction to Real Magic: How You Can Remove Blocks to Prosperity, Happiness and Inner Peace

This book is a must have for all of those starting out on the spiritual path of Wicca and for all of those who are just looking for some light and love in their life. MoonWater SilverClaw uses her knowledge of Wicca and her personal experiences to not only teach the Law of Attraction in a clear manner but to help you use the Law of Attraction to better your life.

Through simple guided meditations and tips on living a happy healthy life this book takes you on a journey that will teach you how to love yourself, better your self image, and rid yourself of the negative energies that prevent you from reaching your goals.

This book covers many wonderful topics that will teach you basic magical practices as well as the theory and idea of “like attracts like” From setting up an alter to casting a circle and how to perform and find the magick that you are seeing in your life this book has so much to offer.

MoonWater SilverClaw is truly an inspirational writer for a newer generation of Wiccans and those seeking to use the natural energies of the earth to make changes in their life. Her writing style speaks from the heart because she has been where the reader is, she has used these techniques and steps to better her own life and now she is helping the reader use the Law of Attraction to better theirs – Amazon Customer

 

Goddess Has Your Back

Goddess Has Your Back: How Wicca Can Help You Raise Your Self-Esteem and Make Your Life Magickal

This is an absolute gem for the witch with issues. Rituals for things like self-esteem are something i have never seen before. Moonwater’s writing is engrossing and draws the reader in. I am a witch with PTSD M.S. and other issues and this book made me feel hopeful and capable. – t’air

 

The Hidden Children of the Goddess Book

The Hidden Children of the Goddess Embrace Wicca, Become Strong, Be at Peace with Yourself and the World Around You

Ms. SilverClaw has written a book that is really great for the beginner wanting to learn about Wiccan or wants to start practicing the art of Wicca. I found this book wonderful, easy to read, and extremely helpful and informative. It covers everything from what Wicca is, the history of Wicca and how Wicca became misassociated with evil, along with how Wicca can help/save people’s lives. Ms. SilverClaw also discusses practicing Wicca either in a Coven or Solo, and all the things you need in order to have in order to perform your ceremony, and she explains what each item means. She explains how to create spells and gives examples to use, and explains the pitfalls of creating certain types of spells. Ms. SilverClaw has truly created a book that is a cast all net the seems to cover everything that I needed to know to begin practicing Wicca. I highly recommend this book to anyone who is searching for their first book on the topic and wants to start practicing the art of Wicca or is just curious about the topic. This is truly a Must Have book. – Tamra L. Shipman

 

 

Goddess Walks Beside You: How You Can Listen, Learn and Enjoy the Wiccan Path

This is a terrific book! It is like talking to the author over a cup of tea like one of the bloggers says. –  Kitri

 

 

P.S. To sign up for our E-Newsletter click here.

 

The Wiccan Path to Support and Comfort During Tough Times

/ Moonwater / Leave a comment
healingearthspeople

Thank you to the contributors of this image.

“This doesn’t make sense. Fred was such a good man. Why did he die so young?” my friend Danny asked me.

“I grieve with you. Just saying the usual words probably won’t help right now,” I began.

Later in our conversation, we talked about reincarnation. My view is: we are all here to learn lessons. With the view of reincarnation, all things fit together. For example, a child, who dies at six-years-old, can return and have another lifetime in which she grows up, gets married and has many adventures.

Still, it’s hard to endure one’s own suffering and even feelings of anguish when loved ones are suffering. Let’s take it even further: Why do the Gods allow innocent children to die in tsunamis or other situations?

Here is a possible explanation: In the Summerlands, before we incarnate we gather with other souls. We agree on helping each other to learn our lessons in the next incarnation. You might say that, together, we come up with a plan before our next incarnation.

It breaks my heart to hear of people dying in a disaster. Then I hear one of my friends say, “That disaster just reminded me how life is short and how we need to cherish each other in what little time we have.”

In the Summerlands, some souls agree to go through hardship in order to help us learn lessons that we couldn’t learn by ourselves. Some lessons only hit home when extreme things happen. Some souls agree to help others learn compassion. Other souls want to help us learn how to come back from tragedy. Additionally, I noticed that there is a certain type of comfort that can only be experienced when a friend is comforting another person who is reeling from tragedy.

You can do simple rituals to deal with suffering.

Dealing with Suffering Ritual

What you will need:

  • Graphic in this post
  • One gray candle (you can use red if you can’t find gray)
  • One green candle
  • One white candle
  • Three candle holders
  • Heat-safe surface (You place the graphic on this surface. Then place the three candle holders upon the graphic. Then place the candles in the holders.)
  • Healing Oil (to dress candles)
  • Altar tools
  • Cakes and wine for cakes and wine ceremony

Cast Circle in the usual manner.

Cleanse and consecrate your candles, oil and the graphic (anoint the corners of the graphic).

Place the three candle holders on the graphic.

Place the gray candle into the left-side candle holder.

Put the green candle into the middle candle holder, and place the white candle into the right-side candle holder.

Light the gray candle while saying:

With tears of sorrow I see thee,
Suffering—the bane of Earth’s peoples.

Light the green candle and say:

With the light cast by this candle
I invite you Gods and Goddesses
To spread comfort and healing to those who are suffering.
Let the people know the love that surrounds them.

Light the white candle and say:

The light of this candle sends purifying energy to
All who need comfort and support.
So mote it be.

Do the Cakes and Wine Ceremony.

Close the Circle.

** Special Note: Be sure to have the candles burn down completely. Do NOT leave unattended candles. Be safe.

May this ritual be helpful to you.

Blessed Be,
Moonwater

 

Looking for gifts?

PentagramWheel2

See my designs at Redbubble. For more of Moonwater SilverClaw, consider some of her books:

Be a Wiccan Badass: Become More Confident and Unleash Your Inner Power

As a Wiccan I found this an inspiring read. Written in a way that makes it accessible to everyone irrespective of their current knowledge. – Shona Cathro

 

 

Goddess Reveals Your Enchanted Light: Peace, Prosperity, Possibility Along Your Wiccan Path

I don’t generally write reviews on books I’ve read…but this time i feel lead to. This book spoke volumes to me, as if the author knew exactly where I’m coming from and what I’m struggling with. It’s not often a book can make me cry, but this one did by making me see the many blocks I’ve put up in my life. I knew they were there, but I’ve gotten skilled at pretending they’re not. Thank you for helping me see I’m not some freak because of circumstances throughout my life that have caused the blocks, and that i need to stop hiding from or burying them and face them one step at a time. – Crystal Sparks

 

Real Magick

Beyond the Law of Attraction to Real Magic: How You Can Remove Blocks to Prosperity, Happiness and Inner Peace

This book is a must have for all of those starting out on the spiritual path of Wicca and for all of those who are just looking for some light and love in their life. MoonWater SilverClaw uses her knowledge of Wicca and her personal experiences to not only teach the Law of Attraction in a clear manner but to help you use the Law of Attraction to better your life.

Through simple guided meditations and tips on living a happy healthy life this book takes you on a journey that will teach you how to love yourself, better your self image, and rid yourself of the negative energies that prevent you from reaching your goals.

This book covers many wonderful topics that will teach you basic magical practices as well as the theory and idea of “like attracts like” From setting up an alter to casting a circle and how to perform and find the magick that you are seeing in your life this book has so much to offer.

MoonWater SilverClaw is truly an inspirational writer for a newer generation of Wiccans and those seeking to use the natural energies of the earth to make changes in their life. Her writing style speaks from the heart because she has been where the reader is, she has used these techniques and steps to better her own life and now she is helping the reader use the Law of Attraction to better theirs – Amazon Customer

 

Goddess Has Your Back

Goddess Has Your Back: How Wicca Can Help You Raise Your Self-Esteem and Make Your Life Magickal

This is an absolute gem for the witch with issues. Rituals for things like self-esteem are something i have never seen before. Moonwater’s writing is engrossing and draws the reader in. I am a witch with PTSD M.S. and other issues and this book made me feel hopeful and capable. – t’air

 

The Hidden Children of the Goddess Book

The Hidden Children of the Goddess Embrace Wicca, Become Strong, Be at Peace with Yourself and the World Around You

Ms. SilverClaw has written a book that is really great for the beginner wanting to learn about Wiccan or wants to start practicing the art of Wicca. I found this book wonderful, easy to read, and extremely helpful and informative. It covers everything from what Wicca is, the history of Wicca and how Wicca became misassociated with evil, along with how Wicca can help/save people’s lives. Ms. SilverClaw also discusses practicing Wicca either in a Coven or Solo, and all the things you need in order to have in order to perform your ceremony, and she explains what each item means. She explains how to create spells and gives examples to use, and explains the pitfalls of creating certain types of spells. Ms. SilverClaw has truly created a book that is a cast all net the seems to cover everything that I needed to know to begin practicing Wicca. I highly recommend this book to anyone who is searching for their first book on the topic and wants to start practicing the art of Wicca or is just curious about the topic. This is truly a Must Have book. – Tamra L. Shipman

 

 

Goddess Walks Beside You: How You Can Listen, Learn and Enjoy the Wiccan Path

This is a terrific book! It is like talking to the author over a cup of tea like one of the bloggers says. –  Kitri

 

 

P.S. To sign up for our E-Newsletter click here.

 

Depression, Suicide, and A Wiccan Path to Healing

/ Moonwater / 4 Comments

Tulips

He had been tossed out of a branch of the armed forces. Why? Poor performance of his duties? No! It was his sexual orientation. A couple of years later, he killed himself. Often, every month, I remember my dear friend.

None of this is a theory to me. I’ve attempted suicide myself. The first time—when I was 8 years old.

Wiccans acknowledge that winter is the season of death. Death does not always mean the end of life. In the Tarot, the card “Death” also means change.

I know from my own journey that feeling the urge to kill oneself is a call for change—and a call for love.

During the winter, a significant number of people struggle with seasonal affect disorder.

For many of us who are enduring difficult times now, here is a meditation from my book Goddess Has Your Back to help you.

Self-Love Meditation

Close your eyes.
Breathe in and out deeply . . . Relax.
Keep breathing.
Breathe out the stress of the day.
Breathe in relaxation and peace.

(Pause)

You are still aware of the light that is in the room.
Now the light begins to fade.
As it fades you feel total comfort. You feel safe and secure in the darkness.

(Short Pause)

Now, a new form of light blossoms. It surrounds and wraps you in its loving energy. This light is the light of the Gods.
It is a light of love and compassion. Take it in.
As you take this light and understanding in, you can now see with the Gods’ eyes.
You can now see yourself as they see you, pure, beautiful, whole. You are a masterpiece of their creation. You were made with love, and you are a manifestation of their love. You are love.
This understanding fills you.

(Pause)

With this new understanding you are now ready to return to the physical world.
You know that even though you may leave the light at this time it is never truly gone.
It’s a gentle transition as the light begins to fade around you.
Slowly at first. It gets darker and darker.
As it fades you feel total comfort. You feel safe and secure in the darkness.

(Short Pause)

Then a familiar light returns, the light in the room where you started.
It gradually gets brighter and brighter.
You are back in the room. You have brought the calm and peace and happy feelings back with you.
Now, gently open your eyes.

I hope you find comfort with this meditation.

You can also meditate and ask the God and Goddess for help. Meditate on what the Gods see as a helping answer for you. Remember, the God and Goddess are always on your side.

If you’re in distress, please call the Suicide Hotline at: 1 (800) 273-8255

Yes—I have attempted suicide more than once. But now my life is good. It’s really worth it to endure the pain because life CAN get better.

Blessed Be,
Moonwater

P.S. To sign up for our E-Newsletter click here.

Looking for gifts?

PentagramWheel2

See my designs at Redbubble. For more of Moonwater SilverClaw, consider some of her books:

Goddess Has Your Back

Goddess Has Your Back: How Wicca Can Help You Raise Your Self-Esteem and Make Your Life Magickal

 

 

The Hidden Children of the Goddess Book

The Hidden Children of the Goddess Embrace Wicca, Become Strong, Be at Peace with Yourself and the World Around You

 

 

Real Magick

Beyond the Law of Attraction to Real Magic: How You Can Remove Blocks to Prosperity, Happiness and Inner Peace

 

 

Goddess Walks Beside You: How You Can Listen, Learn and Enjoy the Wiccan Path

Changing and Growing on my Path

/ Moonwater / 3 Comments

Sacred Path

The video camera “record light” glowed red, and I asked the notable witch a powerful question: What has changed in your belief system from when you started?

This question resonated in my thoughts. When I first started my practice of Wicca, I read that the Gods were everywhere. I just went along with that but I didn’t function on the level of really knowing this.

I didn’t intend to fall into a pattern of looking upon the authors as all knowing priests, telling me what to think and how to worship. (Even if the authors did not mean to “preach,” I took their words in that way.) This is not the spirit of the Craft. If you want to be told what to do and how to do it for your spiritual path, go to certain churches, synagogues or other places of worship.

Wicca is something different. Because I lacked experience, my perception of the Craft was off. As I mentioned, the authors seemed liked preachers to me. The Craft is not a faith of listening to someone standing at a pulpit and following what they say.

But when I first started out I treated my practice of Wicca like that. I lacked the understanding and more importantly, knowing the Gods. Once I met the Gods, my understanding became a knowing in my heart what the Craft is really about.

Instead of looking outward toward Deity, which is what many of the mainstream religions do, I looked within. I found a new world to explore. Looking within, I could no longer deny that my thoughts of inferiority and self-loathing were not the truth of the Gods. Such thoughts of self-loathing were the fruit of abuse and my frightened ego.

The experience of meeting the Gods during my meditation gave me a whole new sight. This sight was of the love and compassion of the Gods. I saw myself as They see me: a creation of beauty.

The Gods communicated to me specifically that They crafted all Their children with love, respect and reverence. So much so that They put themselves into each one of us.

Since that time, I have grown with the knowing that Deity is within and throughout the world around us.

Some might suggest that this insight is a “no-brainer,” but the truth is: I really needed to learn this firsthand through interacting with the Gods.

Just reading or listening to others tell me about this insight was not enough. I needed to experience the real teaching moment for me.

Now I look within to hear the Gods and look outside me to see the signs from the Gods. I have a personalized relationship with the Goddess and God. They are my friends and confidants. They lead me and guide me through my everyday life, including crucial times of hardship.

My journey has also included starting as a solitary witch and then joining a coven.

Like many people I started by reading books. At the time, I couldn’t find a mentor and I wanted to have the right mentor. So I asked the Gods for Their help. They responded, “… when you’re ready.”

So I stayed on the solitary path for many years—reading many books and practicing the Craft as well as I could.

Finally, my first mentor arrived in my life. The Gods were right. I had finally had enough knowledge so that I was able to more fully appreciate my first mentor’s guidance.

Through my first mentor, I had my first experiences as a member of a coven. It was nice to turn to someone who had the experience I lacked. My mentor would steer me on the safest and fastest path that was right for me. All along the way I still talked to the Gods and worked with Them to tailor the lessons of my journey.

To this day, I still ask my mentors for their guidance.

Blessed Be,

Moonwater SilverClaw

P.S. I expect to continue creating video interviews of notable Wiccan elders. If you have a question that you’d like to ask me or another Wiccan elder, please place such a question in the comments section. Thank you.

 

For more of Moonwater SilverClaw, consider some of her books:

Goddess Has Your Back

Goddess Has Your Back: How Wicca Can Help You Raise Your Self-Esteem and Make Your Life Magickal

 

 

 

And

The Hidden Children of the Goddess Book

The Hidden Children of the Goddess Book

 

The Hidden Children of the Goddess Embrace Wicca, Become Strong, Be at Peace with Yourself and the World Around You

 

 

 

 

And

Real Magick

Beyond the Law of Attraction to Real Magic: How You Can Remove Blocks to Prosperity, Happiness and Inner Peace

Moonwater SilverClaw Logo

Is it Time to Let Go or Time to Hold Fast?

/ Moonwater / 2 Comments

 

Cat

 

Is it Time to Let Go or Time to Hold Fast?

 

Cleo, my cat, looked up at me. At 14 years old, Cleo needed me to give her intravenous fluids to sustain her. One night while I was administering her daily fluids she simply looked into my eyes and told me, I’ve had enough, I’m done.

I just knew. Other times, I’ve wrestled with the decision of when it was time to let go of my beloved pet.

Now, I’ve had cats my whole life. In high school, I was introduced to domesticated, pet rats. These little furry friends have terribly short life spans. I’d have four at the same time, and this meant crying every year as one of them would become ill due to old age. I had many times to practice letting go.

I have spent thousands of dollars for medical care for my fuzzy babies. But how does one know when to let go?

If a pet or familiar is close to crossing the veil, when is it truly time to let go?
First listen to your little friend. Here are some signs to help you consider when to let go.

• Is your furry companion still interested in life?
• Does your companion still enjoy eating?
• Does he/she still play in spite of the illness or disease?
• Is the little one in tremendous pain that prevents him/her from being happy?

Now I’m not talking about temporary illness. This is about the end of a life—a terminal illness.

Recently, on Facebook, people discussed the condition of Blacky, The Wheelchair Cat.
A native of New Zealand, he has one eye, and after being struck by a car, he’s left with spinal nerve damage and paralysis in his rear legs and bladder.

A number of people suggested that Blacky be “put down.”

But wait a moment! Blacky can now feel his legs if one tickles them. Sometimes he moves or stands on them. Last year, he had a perianal urethrostomy surgery because of  his bladder problems.

Still, Blacky enjoys life. He enjoys going outside and playing. Other than his mobility issue, Blacky’s now healthy.

In summary, I invite you to look at my list and let it help you make a good decision about whether it may be time to let a pet go.

Sure, sometimes our pets have physical troubles. But you’ve probably noticed the we, humans, can have physical troubles, too. Still, we find ways to have joy and meaning.

Let’s make sure to support our furry friends in their times of need.

 

Blessings,

Moonwater SilverClaw

Moonwater SilverClaw Logo

Overcoming Yuletide Blues

/ Moonwater / Leave a comment
Candle

Candle

Overcoming Yuletide Blues

 

Are you less than jolly this time of year? Tired of hearing how happy you’re supposed to be during the holidays? Do you just want more peace during this stressful time?

Some of us find it a hardship to see relatives who don’t share our spiritual beliefs.

Many Wiccans and Pagans stay in the broom closet (in hiding) from family and friends. Why? Rejection. Some families even banish pagan relatives. This banishment would result if they discovered our hearts and minds are with the Gods. It’s just too much of a risk of loss for many to bear. In some communities, one may even fear retaliation by one’s own family.

I know some pagans who don’t face such consequences and who practice freely. These fortunate pagans told me that the others are “cowards” for hiding. It bothers me to witness such lack of compassion for others’ pain and problems.

How do we cope with such adversity?

Being in the broom closet is not a bad thing. For some, it is a necessity for keeping their job and family.

So how do we keep the peace in our own hearts this holiday season while in the closet? How do we still honor the Gods during the holidays with family? Here are a few suggestions:

  • Wear a pagan pendent under your shirt. (Just make sure that it can’t fall out and be seen by unfriendly eyes.)
  • Light a candle (while saying a silent prayer) and place it on the mantel or other place of prominence in your own home.
  • Take a ritual bath before a gathering and honor the Gods. You’ll feel better.
  • Bring a bottle of your favorite drink (mead is mine) to a gathering.
  • Anoint yourself with sacred oil and keep your intentions of love and peace for the Yule holiday close to you.

These actions can be done in the broom closet and need not require permission from any unsympathetic family members.

And for that extra touch of magick here is a simple blessing you can say for yourself for holiday gatherings.

By the Gods and the four quarters might,

May this blessing be just right.

May the Gods love be in my heart,

May my heart be the center for my kindness,

May my kindness be a guide for my compassion,

May my compassion be an action of love in this world,

And may my action of love in this world bring peace to all at this time.

So mote it be.

How do you plan to celebrate this Yule Sabbat? Are there any ideas you would like to share? Let me know by using the comments box.

Blessings,

Moonwater

Moonwater SilverClaw Logo

I wanted to take a moment and pass this vital message on to you from one of my mentors, Patrick McCollum. What the Patrick McCollum Foundation does is truly important to our community and around the world. If you think you can help, please contact Nell Rose.
Patrick leads march for preserving the Ganges and the Planet. 5000 children participated

Patrick leads march for preserving the Ganges and the Planet. 5000 children participated

“Patrick is quickly becoming one of the foremost voices in our world on the topics of creating world peace and sustaining all people. His message inspires audiences to recognize our inherent interconnection through a common narrative, which gives us greater access to envisioning and creating a common goal: a world that works for everyone. Patrick talked about some of the incredible things that have happened to him over the last 3 and a half years and I wanted to take a moment to review these once again:
  • Buddhist spiritual leaders in Thailand have named Patrick the “World Inner Peace Ambassador”.
  • He was an honored guest speaker at the World Culture Forum in Kazakhstan 2010 where he spoke on the importance of our harmonious connection with Nature and with each other.
  • He has been initiated as a Saint in India and given the name ‘Babaji’, meaning ‘Revered Father’
  • He has also been honored as the ‘King of Peace’ by renowned Tibetan Buddhist Rinpoche’s in our world, among receiving other titles of similar caliber.
  • In 2011 he was honored with receiving the Mahatma Gandhi Award for Religious Pluralism.
  • Last January, Patrick was invited to lead the opening prayer at the Maha Kumba Mela in India, a spiritual gathering that attracted over 100 million people.
  • In February, Patrick will be giving a blessing and be a part of the Maha Yaga in India.
  • In March he will be doing a workshop in Maui with Ram Dass.
Patrick’s teachings have helped many seekers make sense of the world and deepen their connection to Mother Earth and the Universe with an open heart in the wholeness of Love and Reality.
We are currently in an active fund raising program to help further Patrick’s work. We are attempting to raise $100,000.00 to create a digital media library to preserve the teachings of Patrick, and other like-minded spiritual teachers, update our web site, and help cover the cost of travel to the many events Patrick will attending and spreading his massage in creating peace bridges between countries and people, to help him to continue inspiring youth, to support women’s rights, religious equality and to continue to archive his spiritual practices and teachings, and for general overhead to help support and build a stronger Foundation.
  • We are also currently running an indiegogo campaign for Patrick for his upcoming Maha Yaga trip. If you could please send this to any list or social networking sites that you may be a part of to get the message out.
If you can contribute financially in some way that would be wonderful. Please contact me so I might provide further details on our Fundraising Goals and how you can help.”
Blessings, Light, Love, Peace,
NellRoseSigPic

It’s Our One Year Anniversery! Learning Self Love

/ Moonwater / 2 Comments
Got Hope?

Got Hope?

It’s Our 1 Year Anniversary!

 

Today is The Hidden Children of the Goddess’s one year anniversary. Hooray! To celebrate, I will give you a free excerpt of the new book. Email me at AskAWitchNow @ gmail.com for a small excerpt of my upcoming new workbook from my new workshop: Beyond the Law of Attraction to Real Magick.

Today’s post is on one of the most important things the Gods have taught me. Learning Self-Love. If we don’t have self-love we can’t have hope for ourselves and for others.

Learning Self-Love

How do you feel? Do feel good about yourself and how your life is going? In our society, many of us struggle with the concept of self-love. Some people even confuse self-love with being self-centered.

Self-love is about taking care of yourself and making sure that you are strong. Without self-love you can’t manifest your desires.

I did not start with self-love. Due to my brother’s physical abuse and my parents’ neglect, I felt worthless. Fortunately, the Gods changed my perspective on myself for the better.

Through reflective meditation, the Gods helped me understand how skewed my perception of myself really was. This was a key turning point for me.

One thing you always hear about are affirmations, but for many of us these just don’t work.

First, let’s cover what an affirmation is. It’s a personal, positive statement. It can be as simple as “I feel terrific” or “I make a lot of money.”

For many, the above statements don’t work. Why?

A number of people have told, “It just sounds like I’m lying to myself.”

Like myself, many people’s inner self-beliefs interfere with these positive statements. For an example, if I used the affirmation “I am thin, ” my brain would object with “No, I’m not. Look in the mirror”. It’s not true. No matter how hard you try to pound that new idea into your brain, your brain pounds just as hard back.

So how did the Gods help me deal with this problem? They inspired me to create a Self-Love Meditation.

So instead of the uphill battle of an affirmation, we’ll use the Self-Love Meditation to work with the situation.

[You can work with this meditation by audio recording it in your own voice and then play it back. Or you invite a friend to read this section to you.]

Self-Love Meditation

Close your eyes.

Breathe in and out deeply . . . Relax.

Keep breathing.

Breathe out the stress of the day.

Breathe in relaxation and peace.

(Pause)

You are still aware of the light that is in the room.

Now the light begins to fade.

As it fades you feel total comfort. You feel safe and secure in the darkness.

(Short Pause)

Now, a new form of light blossoms. It surrounds and wraps you in its loving energy. This light is the light of the Gods.

It is a light of love and compassion. Take it in.

As you take this light and understanding in, you can now see with the Gods’ eyes.

You can now see yourself as they see you, pure, beautiful, whole. You are a masterpiece of their creation. You were made with love, and you are a manifestation of their love. You are love.

This understanding fills you.

(Pause)

With this new understanding you are now ready to return to the physical world.

You know that even though you may leave the light at this time it is never truly gone.

It’s a gentle transition as the light begins to fade around you.

Slowly at first. It gets darker and darker.

As it fades you feel total comfort. You feel safe and secure in the darkness.

(Short Pause)

Then a familiar light returns, the light in the room where you started.

It gradually gets brighter and brighter.

You are back in the room. You have brought the calm and peace and happy feelings back with you.

Now, gently open your eyes.

You can do this meditation as often as you need to. It may not take at first, but keep trying. Eventually the Gods’ light will shine within you.

I keep this light within me at all times. Sometimes it’s hard to see it, but it is always there. With self-love we can manifest anything we wish. From the foundation of self-love, we have the energy and personal peace from which we can help others on their path.

I would love to hear about your experience with this meditation. You can leave a comment in the comment box below.

Blessed Be,

Moonwater SilverClaw

Moonwater SilverClaw Logo

Magick with Poppets

/ Moonwater / Leave a comment
Irises

Irises

Poppets

What is a poppet? A poppet is a doll made of cloth and stuffed with herbs. Wiccans often make a poppet to represent themselves.

Poppets are easy to make. Take two rectangular pieces of cloth. Draw a human shape (like a ginger bread man) on one piece of your fabric.

Poppet Outline

Poppet Outline

Lay one piece on top of the other and cut out the shape. You should have two cut out pieces of cloth that are the same shape and size.

Cut out poppet

Cut out poppet

Next start with the body and sew up both sides together, sewing everything but the head; leave that open.

You’ll need to decide which herbs will best suit your desires. For example, one might use cinnamon (yes, I know it is a spice) to attract money. Another example: to attract love and friendship, you can choose to use rose petals.

Take your herbs and your poppet. Once you have filled the body, sew up the head to seal the herbs inside. You can add hair or other features to your doll to make it look more like you.

Hold your completed poppet in your hands and visualize your intent. You can chant to help charge your poppet.

When you are done, place the poppet in a safe place where it will not be disturbed until you need to use it again.

Blessed Be,

Moonwater SilverClaw