Jill sighed and then asked, “Can you tell me when and how my life will end?”
“That’s not a question that I work with,” I replied. I went on to share the following four details:
Be sure to avoid doing a Tarot reading when you’re feeling terrible.
Sometimes, the Tarot can mirror your feelings. If you’re in a bad mood, you may find that your mood colors what you perceive in your reading. So, your perception can, in a way, “give you a false reading.”
I have had to be careful about my state of being when I do a Tarot reading. Why? I deal with clinical depression symptoms, so I need be careful that my symptoms don’t mask what the cards are really telling me.
Avoid asking about dreadful subjects.
Don’t ask: “How (or when) will I die?” And, avoid asking about the deaths of your parents and friends. Why? Such questions put you into a terrible space. As I mentioned earlier, your perceptions can be off, and you might get a “false reading.”
Don’t read for others when they are in a bad/sad/angry mood.
If you read for a person who is in a negative mood, they might perceive anything you say as “bad news.” Reading for someone who is upset will not help them. They cannot be open to the messages of the Tarot, and they may twist the news in a negative way.
Be prepared for a possible scary or negative reading.
Pause and think about what you asked. Did you ask a question that was phrased in a negative form? If you still get a negative reading, take a break and try again the next day.
Special Note: Let’s look at how life goes. Some things seem negative at first but turn out better. A divorce can open the door to a later, wonderful marriage. A friend drifts away and then you later realize that you feel much lighter because you had been in a negative co-dependent friendship.
“This is the time of increase?” my friend, Adam, asked.
“Yes. We’re getting close to Spring. This is a good time to cast a Prosperity Spell.”
Let’s look at what “prosperity” is. I don’t limit it to just a plethora of money. I am talking about your whole well-being. Prosperity is having an abundance of loving friends, family, good physical health, healthy finances and a good relationship to the God and Goddess.
Have you noticed that having some amount of all these things helps you feel more whole and happy?
I felt great when a sudden inspiration flowed to me from the Goddess to combine the four Elements in a coherent pattern that I call the Four Foundations of Whole Life Prosperity.
Here are the Four Foundations of Whole Life Prosperity in the terms of the four Elements/Directions:
Spiritual/East – Element: Air
Having a close relationship with the God and Goddess is key to a good and happy life.
Consider meditation as a helpful way to communicate with God and Goddess. In meditation, you can have your finger on the pulse with the Divine, which helps you create the balance your spirit craves. Your Spirit needs to be close to the God and Goddess. It hungers for a relationship with Them.
With this strong connection, the other Foundations of Whole Life Prosperity will come to you.
Health/South – Element: Fire
I’ve thought of the Element of Fire because the Spark of Life, as in good health, supports your prosperous life. Sleep enough, eat healthy meals and get appropriate exercise. After all, our bodies are temples to the Gods. Keep your body in good running order and cherish your body. Nurture your body by bathing regularly and do the rest to keep your body at its best.
We don’t need to fall for the media ideas of what a stereotypically attractive body looks like. You don’t need to be wafer thin. It’s reported that a number of models are actually unhealthy.
Take good care of your body—as the gift you have. Move in the direction of prosperous health.
Love/West – Element: Water
What does “prosperous in love” mean? I suggest we do what helps us have good relationships.
A friend asked, “What do you think is important to find in a romantic partner?”
My husband replied, “Find someone who is kind and flexible.”
I agree, and I’ve learned that it’s important for me to do rituals and meditation to keep myself strong enough to be kind and flexible. A dash of humor helps.
Taking good care of your relationships helps you support your overall prosperity.
Finances/Earth – Element Earth
A number of my friends complain and worry about their finances. I admit it: I get concerned, too. I’m doing fine, but I have this nagging concern about ending up a homeless person. My husband is ten years older than I am. How will things be after he passes on?
I’ve learned that meditation and rituals can bring about some peace of mind.
How about you? Would you benefit from doing rituals to enhance your peace of mind?
Doing a Prosperity Spell can bring in some income. Having the opportunity to do something nice for yourself (having a dinner, seeing a movie) can do wonders for your feelings and sense that we live in an abundant Universe.
Putting It All Together
Bringing together Spirit, health, love and appropriate finances enhances your experience of a whole and happy life.
Use this following is a spell to help you move forward.
The Whole Life Prosperity Spell
What you will need:
Altar and regular ritual tools
Image (as seen above)
1 small rough pebble (North)
1 unused easy light match (south)
1 thimble of water (West)
1 Incense cone and holder (Air)
Do this spell on a waxing moon, closest to the full moon. Focus on this spell to enhance prosperity in various facets of your life.
Cast Circle in the normal manner.
After cleansing and consecrating the items representing the four elements, place the graphic/picture (with this post) on the altar. Set the items (that represent the elements) on their representative cardinal points.
Meditate on your life being full of what you desire. Once you have a firm feeling about what you want, continue with the next steps.
(Light the match on the rock.)
Fire burns in my veins with health,
(Dip index finger into the thimble of water, touch the water to your lips, and say)
Water surrounds me with the love I desire,
(Tap the rock three times.)
Earth provides that I am financially secure, and I enjoy financial abundance,
(Light incense from the working candle.)
And Air sends this spell and my love to the God and Goddess.
Do the Cakes and Wine Ceremony
Close your Circle.
May this Prosperity Spell enhance your life and happiness.
“That’s what the Tarot cards are showing me,” I replied.
“How accurate is this? Is my marketing campaign really going to tank?”
“As I shared with you before … when I do a reading, it’s like taking a glance at a river that is flowing,” I said.
Some Insights about a Tarot Reading
Just because the Tarot gives you an answer, it doesn’t mean it will stay the same.
The Tarot spread of cards that you read is a snapshot in time. If you do nothing and follow the course you’re on, at the moment you view the Tarot spread, you may find that the outcome stays the same.
However, if you change your actions, things can change.
This is why it is so hard sometimes to pin down exact outcomes and the final results that may manifest.
Viewing the Tarot spread has an influence on the future timeline.
Seeing the Tarot spread gives you new information. What will you do with that information? Will you apply yourself to taking action to change the outcome? Perhaps, this is your chance to change your future!
Still, the appropriate use of the Tarot depends on a lot of variables. It’s a truly complicated tool.
Although an outcome may change from the time of your Tarot spread to the future happening, you may still find the Tarot can prove to be helpful in certain circumstances.
Side note: Usually, the major arcana are things one cannot change, and the minor arcana are things you can change. And this depends on which card is next to another. Yes, I did say that the Tarot can be complicated.
Wiccans use the Tarot for many situations including to help people see their choices, to see what actions may be viable, and more.
Like any powerful tool, take care with your use of the Tarot.
“Fear can be a Source for magick-working?” my friend, Jeff, asked.
“Yes,” I replied.
“I don’t understand. I’ve heard that if you focus on what you fear too much, you’ll even attract what you fear,” Jeff said. His brows furrowed. It looked like he was making himself afraid by even voicing this thought.
What is fear?
It may seem to be too simple to ask this question. Sure, all of us feel fear sometimes. Still, let’s start here: the Merriam-Webster dictionary describes fear as: an unpleasant often strong emotion caused by anticipation or awareness of danger.
Dealing with clinical depression, I find fear to be my everyday companion. I have fears about having enough income in the future, close relatives dying, and more.
I’ve learned that I need to do something to get out of the rut of fear.
How can we harness fear?
I’ve learned that fear can be useful. It’s like a warning light (on a pilot’s flight deck) that alerts me to danger.
We evolved to be predisposed to fear. Let’s face it: Those ancestors who saw a saber-toothed tiger, became afraid, and stayed away from it, survived to pass down their genes. Those of our ancestors who saw the saber-toothed tiger and said, “Nice kitty,” didn’t.
So, fear is hardwired into our DNA.
This is good to know. We can use this hardwiring to our advantage.
How?
Fear is like a sign that points to what you truly value. Say we have a fear of being alone. This fear of being alone may indicate that you value having friends and family close by.
I fear homelessness. This could indicate that I value comfort and stability.
Finding your fear sign will help you find your way to your true path. Whenever you have fear about something, ask yourself, “Is this my fear sign?”
To Make Fear a Positive Source of Your Magick …
If you know your fear sign, you can use it to work magick.
How?
In one of my workshops, I had the attendees do a Transform Fear Meditation.
The idea was to start with a physical object in your mind to represent the fear.
Then you imagine the physical object crumbling away like an outer shell to reveal what you value hidden inside.
You can use other forms of meditation.
The questions to use include: “What is fear trying to tell you?” and “What path are you to take?”
Look deep. Ask yourself, “What is the fear pointing to?”
For example, one could ask, “What are you afraid of?
Public speaking.
What’s that fear pointing to?
“I’m afraid of forgetting my words.”
What’s that fear pointing to?
I’m afraid of being embarrassed.
What’s that fear pointing to?
I’m afraid of feeling like a piece of garbage.
Turn this Around. What is the opposite of that fear?
I want to feel good in my heart. I want to feel that I matter and that I contribute something good to the world.
Now, you have a Powerful Intention to Use as a Source of Your Magick!
Next, you can do a Spell to Boost Your Self-Esteem.
Or you could light a candle and say, Lord and Lady, guide me To strengthen myself So I feel good about what I’m doing. Help me to contribute Something good to this world. So Mote It Be.
In summary, the idea is to avoid staying in the rut of fear.
Instead, use the fear to point you to a Positive Intention, that is, what you truly value.
Then, have your spellwork focus on what you truly value.
“How do I have a good PantheaCon experience?” Judy, a newbie, asked me.
Since this year’s PantheaCon (2-16-18) will be at least the 10th year I have attended, I had a bunch of ideas rise in my mind.
“Start with the basics,” I began. “Enough sleep, good food, enough water, and pace yourself … oh, and don’t try to see everything.”
Later, I reflected on the whole PantheaCon experience, and I had more thoughts …
Enjoy What Is There – “Let it be what it is”
“What did you learn last year at PantheaCon?” a friend, Jimmy, asked.
“Enjoy what is there, and let it be what it is.” I replied. By this I mean, pay attention to your expectations and how attached you might be to them. If you hold too tightly to certain expectations, you might feel devastated if they’re not met. Some people say, “Oh, that ruined my conference experience.”
On the other hand, just let the PantheaCon experience be what it is. Yes, you’ll find people of like mind and faith at the conference. It can be a great place to connect with people.
But if you’re a newbie, you may be held at arm’s length by some people because they don’t know you. Don’t take it personally. After your first year, people will know you. Then closer relationships will be possible.
Enjoy what’s in front of you.
My husband tells a story about how he knew a family that always complained about the restaurant food in front of them. It was always: “The fish is more tender at the XY Restaurant” or “I preferred the noodles at the AB Restaurant.” Nobody was simply enjoying what was in front of them. That is, the exception was my husband, who would say, “This works for me.”
“Wiccans listen to the Earth. They don’t shut out the lessons that She is so desperately trying to teach us…. Don’t shut out the physical world in favor of the spiritual or magical realms, for only through nature can we experience these realities.” – Scott Cunningham
Just as Wiccans listen to the Earth, listen to your own body. Do you need to take a break? Get a nap? Walk outside and get away from people for a time?
Pay attention to your body and the energies around you. You will learn a lot.
Align yourself to your “rhythms” during the event
Know when you have had enough. Don’t stay until you can’t think straight. Especially, be careful if you must drive home or to another hotel.
Some people around you may have similar beliefs andthey may be people who are upside-down—feeling upset about something. Make sure that you take care of yourself. Avoid being vulnerable to picking up other people’s negative energy. In my recent e-newsletter, I wrote:
“If you’re attending PantheaCon, you might want to use this following Shielding Chant to help you stay empowered in such a highly stimulating situation. This Shielding Chant can be used at times when regular shielding isn’t enough.
The InstaCircle Chant for Shielding
As you say this chant, you will take your power hand, (usually your dominant hand) and trace a Circle three times above and around your head. When you do the movements, you will envision the energy streaming from your index finger.
Soon, you will point to the heavens and pull the energy from there to the ground.
Here is the InstaCircle process with the movements:
Using your power hand, trace the Circle three times.
I cast my Circle thrice, round, round and round.
Point your index finger up to the heavens and then pull energy down to the ground.
Let no bane get in, From heavens to ground.
May this InstaCircle Chant process bless your life.”
* * *
Honor your own rhythms. Recently, I was reading some material by Doreen Valiente, when I came across this quote:
“This deliberate pacing of the circle is called ‘circumambulating.’ It is different from the wild joyousness of the round dance.” – Doreen Valiente
Sometimes, you want to do a “deliberate pace” and get some rest and other times, you’ll probably want to experience some higher energy activities at PantheaCon.
(Note: Having a lot of people in a small space like a hotel can spread germs a lot. Consider washing your hands often or using hand sanitizer. It is good to not only put up our spiritual wards, but keep up our physical wards. You’ll want to avoid catching ill—something known as “Con Crud.”)
In summary, let your PantheaCon experience be what it is, and align yourself to your rhythms during the event.
Unlike some religions, Wicca is not shut down like it’s a little thing hiding in a bunker.
I’ll say it: Wicca rocks.
This became clear to me as I answered another question posed by a reader at Quora.com
The reader asked me “Can I practice Wicca and Be a Buddhist?” I answered as follows:
“To reply to your question, I had a conversation with a college professor who taught Comparative Religion for 14 years.
Our conversation provided many insights.
Here’s a partial list:
Buddhism separates into a number of sects.
Different sects of Buddhism have different requirements. So, our conversation here will be about Buddhism in general. For many Buddhism practitioners, this path often functions like a philosophy. The Buddha is not considered a “god”—he was a human being who, through diligent effort, became enlightened. In fact, Buddha, as a name, means “enlightened.”
Buddhism and Wicca have concepts that relate to each other (karma and “The 3-Fold Law” also known as “The Law of Three”)
To quote a post I did for my blog GoddessHasYourBack.com:
“Let’s talk about the Law of Three, or the threefold law of return. Whatever energy you send out into the universe will get magnified three-fold and then returned to you. It is a simple principle. But when we observe this principle in action, it proves complex.
Imagine that we have a pond which we’ll call the “universe pond.” You have some stones in your pocket. The stones represent the actions you take in life and in turn, the energy you send out into the universe arising from those actions.
You drop a stone into the pond. Ripples move out from the stone’s entry point to the pond.
As energy created from your action, the ripples spread into the universe and grow in magnitude. Eventually, they hit the edge of the pond and bounce back to you in their magnified form.
So, the stone you dropped in the pond, (an action you took in the universe, whether it was a positive action or a negative one,) comes back to you. Just like nature, the universe has a self-regulating system, many people call this Karma.
So carefully choose your actions.
May the ripples return to you three-fold in positive energy.”
Buddhism’s focus on karma relates to “cause and effect.” (We can see the similarity with The Law of Three.)
One creates karma by one’s actions. You can pay for your misdeeds in this life or in the next life (see reincarnation below). Some people talk about thinking a bad thought and then stubbing their toe as “instant karma.” That might strike someone as amusing. Still, several people talk about “I was kind to that person and later they helped me get a job.” Therefore, karma is not only about being good now so that your later incarnation will turn out well.
So, as you can see, Wicca and Buddhism appear to have some beliefs that line up—in a way.
Buddhism and Wicca have compatibility with the concepts “loving kindness” and “An itharm none”
Wicca believes in harming none. We strive to live with this idea in all aspects of our lives. We strive to avoid killing, harming or causing suffering of any living being. Some Wiccans take it to the point of going vegan. They don’t want to harm any animals for their personal survival.
We may notice that it is impossible to live “an it harm none” as a rule. Even vegans harm plants. We brush our teeth and kill bacteria.
Wiccans tend to look upon an it harm none as a guideline. Something to strive for in our daily lives.
Buddhists emphasize compassion. Many also speak of and take action related to “loving kindness.”
“May the roots of suffering diminish. May warfare, violence, neglect, indifference, and addiction also decrease. May the wisdom and compassion of all beings increase, now and in the future. May we clearly see all the barriers we erect between ourselves and others to be as insubstantial as our dreams. May we appreciate the great perfection of all phenomena.” – Pema Chodron, Buddhist nun
The above quote from Pema Chodron emphasizes aspects of loving kindness. In a way, loving kindness is a practice of extending kindness and compassion outward to others during one’s meditation practice. It can also be a way of interacting with people in daily life. It is more than harming none; it is the providing of kindness and compassion to the benefit of the other person.
A Wiccan can incorporate loving-kindness in her daily meditation practice, too.
A number of Wiccans (not all) believe in reincarnation like Buddhists
Many Buddhist emphasize a belief in reincarnation. Some state that the goal is to learn our lessons and practice compassion – and ultimately get free of the Wheel of Life. That’s when one does not return again to the Earth to suffer during another lifetime.
Buddhists emphasize the Four Noble Truths – often written as …
Life is suffering.
Suffering has a cause: craving and attachment.
People can be free of suffering when they give up craving and attachment.
To let go of craving and attachment, one practices the Eight-Fold Path (similar to rules).
Buddhists suggest that in each incarnation we learn how to release our habitual actions that lead to suffering.
My personal belief is we are here to learn lessons to advance our spiritual growth. For example, before I was incarnated I had a lesson plan. I asked other spirits if they would help me learn these lessons. So, perhaps one agreed to help me learn patience, and another would help me learn compassion. Then, we would incarnate here on Earth and help each other. The Gods are present to help us through our lessons because sometimes such lessons can be tough. The universe creates scenarios that will create an opportunity to learn your lesson(s).
Sometimes those scenarios can be very hard. No one wants their child to die or be in an abusive relationship.
I’ve learned that the Universe provides us with paths to learn our lessons.
Sometimes, the direct route to incorporate a lesson into our being is the one that requires us to endure something horrible.
I heard of a mother whose 15-year-old son was shot and killed by another 15-year-old boy. Ultimately, the mother learned to extend amazing forgiveness in that she was the only person to visit the 15-year-old murderer in prison. She lost a son and gained an opportunity to extend kindness and forgiveness to the kid who killed her child.
This mother’s faith in a Higher Power provided her a form of comfort and inspiration.
My own elders in Wicca brought the idea of “the universe flows in the path of least resistance” to my attention. I look upon this as the Universe will find the direct path to help us grow.
To Wiccans: the Gods, other spirits and entities provide support and guidance for us to endure the rough spots of life.
Certain sects of Buddhism have no concerns about Polytheism
It is reported that the Mahāyāna tradition is the largest tradition of Buddhism, with 53.2% of practitioners. Some scholars note that Mahayana Buddhism spread so much because of the idea: “Keep your gods. Oh, and they are manifestations of the Buddha.”
This leaves room for one to practice a form of Buddhism and be Wiccan simultaneously. That plan might bring you to calling yourself “eclectic.”
Blessings upon whatever path you decide to walk.”
When we see Wicca in light of other spiritual paths, we have something to be grateful for.
“Why did you become a witch?” Lena, a friend, asked me.
This started my thoughts about how many of us, Wiccans, find our way to this spiritual path.
I note four related topics:
You want control over your life
You don’t like being told what to believe
You love the Old Gods
You want to learn Secret Knowledge
You want control over your own life
Many witches want the power to control their own lives. This draws them to magick.
Several individuals find their way to witchcraft because they feel that their life is out of control, and they feel the need to create the world they want.
You may desire a better job, home or a new lover. (Be careful of love spells—see my post.)
We note that to gain a job, one needs to do mundane practices boosted by magick. Mundane?—yes, we send out resumes and go to networking events.
Magick can help us weave our own destinies—at least the parts we can influence. Magick courses through us and the world around us. Witches harness these energies to change those things they need to influence. Numerous witches perform spells for those things they desire.
Using spells, witches can control their lives in ways others cannot.
You don’t like being told what to believe
Along with having control of your life comes the fact that a witch doesn’t like being told what to think and what to believe.
We are free thinkers. We don’t blindly follow some priest in a church. We don’t blindly follow a priest’s pronouncements. We question authority.
Wicca attracts many women who celebrate that women have equal rights and powers as men.
Furthermore, many women have already had experiences with the paranormal. (Men have paranormal encounters, too.) For example, I observed Shadow People and heard a poltergeist while growing up in a haunted home.
Like others, I have wanted answers to such unusual occurrences.
You love the Old Gods
During my childhood, my parents dragged me to their Christian Church. I couldn’t relate to their version of an angry, father-figure God who apparently doesn’t like people!
I wanted to interact with a god who wasn’t angry or punishing. My intuition told me that there were other Gods to interact with.
Some of us grew up reading the ancient myths of different cultures and falling in love with the Gods of old. One of my good friends had such an experience.
As a child, I found myself naturally doing rituals. I gathered berries and made a little altar, somewhat near my home. This was possible since I grew up in an undeveloped area of Redwood City, California.
When I read about Wicca some years later, I realized that I was already doing ritual. I found myself attracted to the Goddess and the Horned God.
You want to learn Secret Knowledge
Once we’ve begun our Wiccan journey and we’re practicing as solitary witches, some of us wanted to learn the deep secrets of magick and the Wiccan Path.
Many witches realize that they want to practice as a solitary. Still, for the deepest knowledge, one can get initiated into one of the Traditions. This is an interesting transition. Why? Many of us begin with not wanting to be told what to do. However, in going through the secret training of the seeker, you do find that to stay safe while doing magick, you need to follow precise directions. Hopefully, by this point, the witch is not overly concerned about taking direction—because she or he is more focused on diving deep into the Secret Knowledge.
My own training, over years, led to my earning the role of 3rd Degree High Priestess of the Gardnerian Tradition. In the Gardnerian Tradition, there is much Secret Knowledge that I cannot even hint about here in this blog.
Once initiated, one discovers a whole new world of information. We note that newly initiated witches dive deep, clamoring for more and deeper secret knowledge. Only initiated witches receive the specific Book of Shadows (BOS) of the particular Tradition. The BOS unveils the secrets of the Gods and the Craft, satiating the thirst for knowledge.
In summary, many of us, Wiccans, come to our spiritual path because of these details:
“I wish I could tell people no,” my friend, Jill said. “But I’m afraid it’s just going to cause more trouble.” How does a Wiccan say no and still protect her relationships?
The answer lives in The Three Aspects of the Goddess. Many of us have heard of the Maiden, Mother and Crone. I’m suggesting here that all three aspects are necessary – not only for our spiritual growth, but also for us to support our relationships at work and with family.
Recently, I heard multiple times in the same week, Wiccans saying, “I don’t have time for my spiritual practice.” With people demanding your time and effort, it can feel almost impossible to have time for your personal, spiritual journey.
Some authors suggest that “saying no” is a prime, time-management tool.
I’ll add that you cannot merely say no. You need to add something kind and conscious to that process.
Three Aspects of the Goddess
We’ll focus on the Three Aspects of the Goddess to help you find more time, so you can improve your own Wiccan practice.
First, you don’t just say no.
I once heard a speech in which the person said, “You could say something like this: ‘I’ll have to say no at this time. My plate is full. Let’s see if we can brainstorm for a moment. Maybe, I know someone who can help you with that.’” The speaker’s point was that you don’t just say no. You also find a way to be helpful.
That’s the essence of the below Three Aspects of the Goddess Elements to Say No Process:
Maiden (fertility of ideas)
Many times, people can be demanding of your time and efforts when it’s not your duty or job description.
Still, you need to protect the relationship.
This is the time to invoke the Maiden form of the Goddess, known for fertility. Let’s add the thought: fertility in terms of creating new ideas.
When you embody “Maiden energy,” you say things like:
I hear you. The paperwork is tough. How about I brainstorm with you about when in the shift you can do it?
I understand. The paperwork is complicated. I realize that at some time (maybe I’m on vacation), you’d need to take care of it. When can we take 15 minutes, and I’ll show you how to do Part One of the paperwork?
This process is about you helping the person think of ways to fulfill the task or request without you.
The Maiden has lots of youthful energy. To guard your own energy, you need to express to the person what you’re willing to do, and more importantly what you’re not willing to do.
Remember, there are things you cannot do for the person you care about. You cannot take their final exam, and you cannot, in their place, arrive on time for work.
I’ve heard Wiccans complain about “where did my energy go?” Guard your own Maiden energy by shifting to helping people do their own tasks.
Mother (nurture the person to do things)
Embrace and nurture the person. Help the person do things for themselves.
My friend, Jill, at work, puts forth the idea of a rotating schedule for the duty of filling out the paperwork.
Jill discovers that helping the other people learn how to do paperwork gives them a sense of accomplishment that they are growing their skills.
Make sure you nurture (and reinforce) the new behaviors by giving specific praise to another person who is learning new things. Appreciate them and give them good feelings. Celebrate that the person’s skills and experiences have expanded.
My husband’s coach talks about “growing your comfort zone.”
An effective mother does not do all the tasks. She empowers her family to add new skills. The family members “grow their comfort zone.”
Crone (provide “wisdom with a hug”)
I think of the effective Crone as one who provides wisdom with a hug.
Without a hug or giving a person good feelings, it’s just someone telling another person what to do.
For example, some male individuals say, “I’m a recovering Mr. Fix It.” This is recognizing that we want to avoid just telling someone: “To fix that, you should do _____.”
Wisdom with a hug means “you hold them and their feelings.” And that means you listen.
* * *
In summary, you can create more time for yourself and your spiritual path when you learn to say no and add The Three Aspects of the Goddess. I’m not saying this is easy. It takes practice.
When you’re not running around doing everyone else’s work, you can have time for your personal spiritual practices.
May this process create more peace and joy in your life.
“Moonwater was telling me about her weight loss program, and it sounded like something I could do that didn’t cost me more than the normal groceries I buy, anyway. I started with an egg omelet in the morning with mushrooms and spinach. … In two weeks, I lost 7 lbs. I had a couple of days of eating what I wanted but not overeating. Then right back to Goddess Style. I feel great and eat what the Goddess gives us.” – Denise Kopplinger
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
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
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
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
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
“My whole household is down with the flu. Except me. Well, I’m starting to cough. I don’t how much longer I can take the pressure,” she said.
Saying “Don’t worry” won’t do Zoe any good at this moment.
When’s the last time you have been seriously worried? Is it happening now?
I’ve noticed that worry gets more intense about things we really cannot control.
What can you do?
We, Wiccans, have an advantage: We can do an empowering ritual.
The “Let Go” Meditation/Ritual
What you will need:
One white candle
Banishing oil or extra virgin olive oil
Banishing incense or your favorite scent
Ritual tools
Cakes and wine
This is a truly simple candle ritual you can do to get some relief from worry.
Cast circle in the usual manner.
Consecrate and charge your candle with your holy water and your incense. Dress your candle with your oil.
Start belly-breathing (taking big breaths in and out—slowly) and light the candle.
Envision all your worry and fretting going into the candle’s flame. That is, envision all your worry as a black smoke flowing out of your mouth with each breath out. The flame draws all the black smoke.
Say: In this moment,
I let go. Goddess take this from me.
God strengthen me.
So mote it be.
Continue your meditation on the candle, breathing out all your worries as the black smoke.
When you’re done, thank the God and Goddess for Their support. Let the rest of the candle burn out.
“Moonwater was telling me about her weight loss program, and it sounded like something I could do that didn’t cost me more than the normal groceries I buy, anyway. I started with an egg omelet in the morning with mushrooms and spinach. … In two weeks, I lost 7 lbs. I had a couple of days of eating what I wanted but not overeating. Then right back to Goddess Style. I feel great and eat what the Goddess gives us.” – Denise Kopplinger
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
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
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
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
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
Are you considering the question of whether to go public with your Pagan faith?
Recently, one of my readers asked: “How do I tell my mainly Christian friends/family I’m Wiccan?”
“That’s a vital and complicated topic,” I thought. “Can I answer this in a brief article or would this be something to cover in half a book?”
Here’s my answer to my reader:
Are you sure you need to go public with your Wiccan faith? Many Wiccans stay in the broom closet and are just happy with that. They have real and intense reasons to keep their faith private.
I have deep empathy for your situation—my own parents dragged my brother and me to their Christian church in our early years.
It’s important to consider many issues before you do something that is irreversible.
1) You will lose some people.
Many Christians have been told by their religion-leaders that Wicca is evil. So, these Christians feel terror about Wicca. Doesn’t it make sense that several people may react poorly to you telling them you have different beliefs than they do? You may be shunned—for a lifetime. Are you willing to lose some friends and family?
2) Are you ready to go public?
For many Wiccans, the cost of going public has been to lose their jobs and other opportunities because of their beliefs.
In this day of social media, several authors suggest: “There is no privacy.”
Many of us have stories about how someone said, “I’ll keep your secret,” but later that person blurted out one’s private information. How do you feel about the whole online world knowing that you are Wiccan?
3) Are you okay with the possible backlash?
Remember, many Christians have been misinformed about Wicca. Those individuals consider Wicca to be evil. How do some people treat those they consider evil? Have you seen the consequences of those who think they are righteous and they’re only “punishing” evil-doers? People who are afraid tend to react in a rash manner.
After due consideration … here are some methods to express one’s Wiccan faith publicly.
a) Let the other person start the conversation
I always wear a pentacle necklace. When some people see it, they make a comment. This opens the door for me to explain what the pentacle means. In this way, I’m able to share some of my beliefs and let them know some facts about the Wiccan spiritual path. (Warning: It depends on where you live. Since many Christians believe Wicca to be evil, you might open yourself to violence if you openly wear a pentacle. Please know that I live in Northern California where such an occurrence is unlikely.)
b) Start with common ground
“Margaret, I noticed that you’re concerned about taking care of the environment,” Amanda said. This is an example of starting with common ground. You can talk about how you also have a deep appreciation for nature. You can mention that walking in nature is like going to a sacred place for you. Some Wiccans mention that they have a “nature-focused religion.”
Some people who believe in one God say that they have a feeling of awe when they see the Grand Canyon or a waterfall. The feeling of awe in the presence of nature can be common ground.
c) Talk about “The All” if that is part of your Wiccan Faith
Some Wiccans believe that “The All” began the universe. Then The All manifested as the Goddess who gave birth to the God … and so forth.
A Christian might be able to understand “The All” as approximating what they view as “God, the Father.”
d) Show Your Wiccan Faith in Action
Take up an environmental cause—if that fits for you. Here are options: Do cleanups in your neighborhood and demonstrate the positive things about your beliefs. Volunteer at an animal shelter, or perform some other charitable work. In these ways, you demonstrate the life-enhancing actions that you do, inspired by your Wiccan faith.
Please do a lot of reflection. Get some advice from people you trust. Practice the actual words you will use for your tough conversations about your Wiccan faith … if you decide to cross this irreversible threshold.
Starting January 15, 2018
I lost 45 lbs.
What if you could invite Goddess to help you lose weight? You’ll learn a system of weight loss that is NOT a diet, and you’ll be honoring the God and Goddess through the practice of Wicca. You’ll take care of yourself. You will not be hurting yourself with denial of your favorite foods all the time. You’ll even nurture yourself and feel the embrace of the Goddess. This 5-week online course is about being healthy. It’s not about being stereotypically attractive like any image portrayed in the media. In fact, Wiccans appreciate Goddess in Her many forms. High Priestess Moonwater SilverClaw reveals in this course the process in which she permanently dropped 40 pounds. Her health is better.
You will learn to provide yourself with comfort in ways that connect you with Goddess. You will transform your journey so you let go of “being big” to be safe. Moonwater writes: “I’ve learned that as I take better care of myself and I connect with God and Goddess, I do NOT need the extra weight to feel safe.”
Begin a new journey of weight loss and spiritual peace….
Get the Online Course Here
Course value: $129.00 Special Limited Time Offer for Only $49.97
“Moonwater was telling me about her weight loss program, and it sounded like something I could do that didn’t cost me more than the normal groceries I buy, anyway. I started with an egg omelet in the morning with mushrooms and spinach. … In two weeks, I lost 7 lbs. I had a couple of days of eating what I wanted but not overeating. Then right back to Goddess Style. I feel great and eat what the Goddess gives us.” – Denise Kopplinger
“Moonwater was telling me about her weight loss program, and it sounded like something I could do that didn’t cost me more than the normal groceries I buy, anyway. I started with an egg omelet in the morning with mushrooms and spinach. … In two weeks, I lost 7 lbs. I had a couple of days of eating what I wanted but not overeating. Then right back to Goddess Style. I feel great and eat what the Goddess gives us.” – Denise Kopplinger
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
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
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
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
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
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