Hey guys! I apologize for not blogging at all/rarely last month, but I have had a lot of things going on with me. I am aware that I have been having panic attacks, and it is suspected to be stemming from an anxiety disorder, so please send a little healing energy my way.
Today, I wanted to share my love of books. This is pretty different from what I usually do, but I have found this excellent book that I have picked up. I'm about halfway done with it, and I got it about 3 days ago. It's a fairly light read, and it's packed with information on Wicca. It is titled Exploring Wicca by Lady Sabrina. It is the updated edition, and I absolutely adore this book.
This book is beyond perfect for a person who has just started classified themselves as Wiccan. It goes over all of the basic things that one would be expected to know after the first and second years of being in this religion. It goes over a history of Wicca, the different traditions of Wicca (some of which I had never heard of until now), and many, many concepts.
It explains the different types of gods such as Sun Gods, The Horned Gods, and The Harvest Gods. It gives a brief history of them and some examples from the Norse, Greek, Roman, and Celtic pantheon. It does the same with the Goddesses (Moon Goddesses, The Triple Goddess), and it actually helped me find which God and Goddess I can consider my patron deities. (In case you do not follow me on Twitter, I have recently changed from the
This book also has a detailed description of the elements, and what they represent. This book, in a way, help me find that my element is actually air. I believed it was fire or water, but given the meaning in the book, I can clearly see that I am of the element air (natural leader, and the intelligence behind the event). They list herbs, the archangels, the stones, the colors, and so much more representing these elements. They also explain how certain herbs can promote certain actions, and I thought that was really neat.
I flipped through the book, and this tells you about alter setups, the history and meaning behind the Sabbats, how to go about casting a circle and magickal spells, and it even has a glossary. You can look up specific terms, and that may be helpful for starters in Wicca.
I give this book a 5 star rating. The only that caught my attention and bugged me is that I saw a couple of love spells in the book. As much as love spells are popular, I have no problem with them... IF THEY DO NOT TARGET A SINGLE PERSON. I don't believe in manipulating one's free will, but... I'll be perfectly honest, I have done a spell having to do with love. It was not aimed at a specific person, but it was more-so a "let me find love, and let me experience it with whoever the universe feels like pairing me up with" spell. The book does have a spell that does say [insert name here] in one love spell, and I didn't care for that. (Once again, I was just scanning ahead and found that.)
Other than that, the book does contain spells that I can actually conduct with what I have on my hidden alter: a pink candle, a green candle, incense....
I can't say it enough, I love this book. I want you guys to check it out and tell me what you guys think of it. I also have to wait for the library to get the other books I have on reserve. One is a Scott Cunningham book, and another one is a huuuge book on Wicca and Witchcraft. I'll let you guys know about those ones too and what I thought of them.
Brightest blessings and much love,
Dawn )O(
Showing posts with label Wicca. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Wicca. Show all posts
Sunday, February 24, 2013
Saturday, January 26, 2013
Incorporating Spirituality Into Wicca
Hello, again! I feel like I haven't written a thing since I had a sinus infection. I've also been having a tough time bouncing back emotional-wise, but I seem to be better now.
Today, I decided to talk to you guys about spirituality, and how some things I have experienced within it have been incorporated into my Path. This is going to be interesting when I explain some of the beliefs I follow. Some stem from other Pagan religions, such as Buddhism, some have been pulled from Wicca, of course.... And I even found that even a Wiccan can follow some teachings from the contradictory religion, Christianity and it's Holy Book, the Bible. This is what I believe makes me eclectic: Taking bits and pieces from other religions and placing some of them into my life and Wicca.
I believe in karma, which is different from the Threefold Path. Karma says that whatever you do will affect you for better or worse. The Threefold Path states that the energy you give something (positive, negative, passionate, anger) will return to you in Threefold. That is the difference, and it's a rookie mistake. Anyways, I absolutely believe in the law of Karma. I also love to meditate, which is usually a part of Wicca anyways, but it is also Buddhist. It really does calm me down, but I also am creative with these meditation sessions. I have tried meditative painting before, or painting in general. It helps me talk to the God and Goddess. It also pleases Apollo because he is a God of the Arts. I love doing yoga, but haven't done it in quite a while. I like to believe that it is a physiological meditation. I am attempting to work with chakras, but I have no idea where to start. (I will research this later.)
I am Native American, therefore Paganism is in my blood. My great-grandmother believed in nothing but herbal remedies and believed in having a totem animal. I am not sure what our totem animal was, but I think it may have been a wolf. Regardless, I believe in the same thing. I feel more connected to felines, particularly black domestic cats. I also am looking into certain herbs and what they may help with. I have come across a video that has informed me on how to treat illnesses, which will come in handy.
Now, for the most controversial part that I have been DYING to get to: the Bible. You're probably like, "Dawn, how do you live by the Bible when it speaks against Paganism?" I follow certain verses that I would like to share with you. Let me type them.
John 15: 12-13
This is my command, that you love one another, so that I have loved you. Greater love has no man than the one that lays down his life for his friends.
Romans 12:15-21 (Modified for Wicca)
Rejoice with those who are rejoicing, and cry with those who cry. Have the same concern for everyone. Don't be full of pride, but accept humble duties.... If someone has done you wrong don't repay them with a wrong. Try to do what is considered to be good. Do everything that is possible on your part to live at peace with everybody. Never take revenge (for that is the God and Goddess's part). If your enemies are hunger, let them eat. If they are thirsty, give them something to drink. This will make them filled with shame. (Do not let negative energies take over you. Instead, let positive energies flow from your heart.)
1 Corinthians 13:13
These 3 things remain: hope, faith, and love. The greatest of these is love.
These are just a few of the verses that I apply to my faith. Just read these and think... Most of these involve love, right? And I quote the Wiccan Rede:
Today, I decided to talk to you guys about spirituality, and how some things I have experienced within it have been incorporated into my Path. This is going to be interesting when I explain some of the beliefs I follow. Some stem from other Pagan religions, such as Buddhism, some have been pulled from Wicca, of course.... And I even found that even a Wiccan can follow some teachings from the contradictory religion, Christianity and it's Holy Book, the Bible. This is what I believe makes me eclectic: Taking bits and pieces from other religions and placing some of them into my life and Wicca.
I believe in karma, which is different from the Threefold Path. Karma says that whatever you do will affect you for better or worse. The Threefold Path states that the energy you give something (positive, negative, passionate, anger) will return to you in Threefold. That is the difference, and it's a rookie mistake. Anyways, I absolutely believe in the law of Karma. I also love to meditate, which is usually a part of Wicca anyways, but it is also Buddhist. It really does calm me down, but I also am creative with these meditation sessions. I have tried meditative painting before, or painting in general. It helps me talk to the God and Goddess. It also pleases Apollo because he is a God of the Arts. I love doing yoga, but haven't done it in quite a while. I like to believe that it is a physiological meditation. I am attempting to work with chakras, but I have no idea where to start. (I will research this later.)
I am Native American, therefore Paganism is in my blood. My great-grandmother believed in nothing but herbal remedies and believed in having a totem animal. I am not sure what our totem animal was, but I think it may have been a wolf. Regardless, I believe in the same thing. I feel more connected to felines, particularly black domestic cats. I also am looking into certain herbs and what they may help with. I have come across a video that has informed me on how to treat illnesses, which will come in handy.
Now, for the most controversial part that I have been DYING to get to: the Bible. You're probably like, "Dawn, how do you live by the Bible when it speaks against Paganism?" I follow certain verses that I would like to share with you. Let me type them.
John 15: 12-13
This is my command, that you love one another, so that I have loved you. Greater love has no man than the one that lays down his life for his friends.
Romans 12:15-21 (Modified for Wicca)
Rejoice with those who are rejoicing, and cry with those who cry. Have the same concern for everyone. Don't be full of pride, but accept humble duties.... If someone has done you wrong don't repay them with a wrong. Try to do what is considered to be good. Do everything that is possible on your part to live at peace with everybody. Never take revenge (for that is the God and Goddess's part). If your enemies are hunger, let them eat. If they are thirsty, give them something to drink. This will make them filled with shame. (Do not let negative energies take over you. Instead, let positive energies flow from your heart.)
1 Corinthians 13:13
These 3 things remain: hope, faith, and love. The greatest of these is love.
These are just a few of the verses that I apply to my faith. Just read these and think... Most of these involve love, right? And I quote the Wiccan Rede:
Abide by the Wiccan Rede, ye must
In perfect love and perfect trust...
See the connection? That's something that Wicca and Christianity have in common. There's a lot of common aspects between these 2, but in general, no one really knows it. (I'll save this for yet another post.)
This is why I'm Eclectic. I believe in all of these things and apply them to Wicca.
Many blessings and have a great esbat,
Dawn )O(
Thursday, January 17, 2013
Wicca 101: Appreciating Nature
Hello, again! I haven't blogged in forever, or at least, that's what it feels like. Today, I want others to take a breather and think about what you've been doing with nature, and how exactly you treat it.
Pause for a second. When you are a Pagan, especially Wiccan, you notice that you don't go to a certain building for a worship session. Nature is your temple. You go out there and you admire its beauty. To be perfectly honest, that is why I go to camp, regardless of its religious teachings. There are so many subtle ways to go into nature and bond with it. I believe that's why I connect with the element earth a lot.
First of all, when you search for a wood to make a wand, don't you ever snatch a branch off on the tree. Look and see if there is a detached branch. Trust me... I learned the hard way. Another thing you can do is that if the tree shades you from the sun, give it an offering, like water. I remember doing it to this magnificent pine tree and I felt as though the tree actually said thanks.
Meditation in the afternoon is calming, and you can focus on the beauty of nature. You don't do it by using your vision, but by touch and listening. It is amazing. I've done it for 5 days, 15 minutes each day. You don't even have to close your eyes. Just sit and write or draw. It's amazing.
You don't have to be in the sunshine in order to appreciate nature. Sometimes, I like to sit out in the rain, or just watch it.
Either way, these things and more can be taken into consideration.
Just a little thought and lesson for you.
Dawn )O(
Pause for a second. When you are a Pagan, especially Wiccan, you notice that you don't go to a certain building for a worship session. Nature is your temple. You go out there and you admire its beauty. To be perfectly honest, that is why I go to camp, regardless of its religious teachings. There are so many subtle ways to go into nature and bond with it. I believe that's why I connect with the element earth a lot.
First of all, when you search for a wood to make a wand, don't you ever snatch a branch off on the tree. Look and see if there is a detached branch. Trust me... I learned the hard way. Another thing you can do is that if the tree shades you from the sun, give it an offering, like water. I remember doing it to this magnificent pine tree and I felt as though the tree actually said thanks.
Meditation in the afternoon is calming, and you can focus on the beauty of nature. You don't do it by using your vision, but by touch and listening. It is amazing. I've done it for 5 days, 15 minutes each day. You don't even have to close your eyes. Just sit and write or draw. It's amazing.
You don't have to be in the sunshine in order to appreciate nature. Sometimes, I like to sit out in the rain, or just watch it.
Either way, these things and more can be taken into consideration.
Just a little thought and lesson for you.
Dawn )O(
Friday, January 11, 2013
I Seriously Had To...
Hello, it's me again. Today, I'd like to talk about what happened today, and how I felt afterward.
A friend of mine (let's call her Staci) had talked to me in depth about what she believes in. She says that she has had some paranormal experiences and obsessed with spirits and psychic powers and such. She unknowingly brought up divination, specifically tarot. I was so happy, and asked if she wanted to see them. We could also do a reading in the library, seeing as though there is a book about that in detail. She was pleased with that.
Something clicked inside of me, and I literally began shaking. It was uncontrollable, and it felt like I wasn't really the one in charge. I think the Goddess took hold of me and was trying to say that Staci is going to be important in my life and to stick with her. The last time my right hand began shaking, it was when I picked out Apollo, and the God I've worshiped for about a year. So, in a nutshell, my deities are telling me something about Staci and her beliefs.
Just wanted to share that with you guys. I may come at you with another Wicca 101 blog today, so you guys get a treat, hopefully.
Many Blessings,
Dawn )O(
A friend of mine (let's call her Staci) had talked to me in depth about what she believes in. She says that she has had some paranormal experiences and obsessed with spirits and psychic powers and such. She unknowingly brought up divination, specifically tarot. I was so happy, and asked if she wanted to see them. We could also do a reading in the library, seeing as though there is a book about that in detail. She was pleased with that.
Something clicked inside of me, and I literally began shaking. It was uncontrollable, and it felt like I wasn't really the one in charge. I think the Goddess took hold of me and was trying to say that Staci is going to be important in my life and to stick with her. The last time my right hand began shaking, it was when I picked out Apollo, and the God I've worshiped for about a year. So, in a nutshell, my deities are telling me something about Staci and her beliefs.
Just wanted to share that with you guys. I may come at you with another Wicca 101 blog today, so you guys get a treat, hopefully.
Many Blessings,
Dawn )O(
Wednesday, January 9, 2013
Huge Steps
Hello, again, guys! I'm Dawn, and today, I'd like to share with you what actually happened yesterday. I talked about it briefly on Twitter, and seeing as there's only about 140 characters, I couldn't explain on what I was saying and what had fully happened, so I'd thought I blog about it.
Yesterday, I had met not only another Pagan, but I had met a Wiccan. It started when we were talking about religion, and he claimed he was a witch. He prefers the title to be called "Mage," so I asked him if he meant real life or Skyrim (because that was quite a bizzare statement). He said both.
At this point, I was really interested in the conversation. He told me about a couple of spells that he had cast... He had cast a couple for revenge, which I'm mostly against. I wouldn't cast one in order to put a family member in the hospital, which is what he did to his sister, but if it was to teach another person humility, then MAYBE. (Let's just say the other involved extensions falling out. Yes, I laughed my butt off.) So, he's more into... a darker side of Wicca, you could say.
He explained to a friend that was sitting with us that Wicca is all about manipulating energies and that is how spells work. He actually volunteered to help her learn more about Wicca and its beliefs. He also stated he works with candle magick, and I was happy that I wasn't the only one. After he said this, I stated that I knew a lot about Wicca and asked him how long he's been a Wiccan. He is on his 7th month, 5 months after I became a Pagan.
The conversation had died out, and he left to check out a devotional book from the library. I then took a deep breath and said I researched Wicca for a year, and that I am Wiccan. She is quite accepting, and now she has 2 friends that are Wiccan. She has yet to get used to the fact that I don't believe in the Christian God and that I believe in Apollo and Hecate and other deities of this nature. As a matter of fact, she loves religion and is kind of wondering if she wants to minor in Theology like I might do.
So, that's yesterday in a nutshell. I am so glad I was able to find another Wiccan, and I am starting to get out of the broom closet.
To all of you who are still in the broom closet, I suggest that you tell your best friend about being a Pagan first. They are usually the ones to understand you a lot more.
Much love and blessings,
Dawn )O(
Yesterday, I had met not only another Pagan, but I had met a Wiccan. It started when we were talking about religion, and he claimed he was a witch. He prefers the title to be called "Mage," so I asked him if he meant real life or Skyrim (because that was quite a bizzare statement). He said both.
At this point, I was really interested in the conversation. He told me about a couple of spells that he had cast... He had cast a couple for revenge, which I'm mostly against. I wouldn't cast one in order to put a family member in the hospital, which is what he did to his sister, but if it was to teach another person humility, then MAYBE. (Let's just say the other involved extensions falling out. Yes, I laughed my butt off.) So, he's more into... a darker side of Wicca, you could say.
He explained to a friend that was sitting with us that Wicca is all about manipulating energies and that is how spells work. He actually volunteered to help her learn more about Wicca and its beliefs. He also stated he works with candle magick, and I was happy that I wasn't the only one. After he said this, I stated that I knew a lot about Wicca and asked him how long he's been a Wiccan. He is on his 7th month, 5 months after I became a Pagan.
The conversation had died out, and he left to check out a devotional book from the library. I then took a deep breath and said I researched Wicca for a year, and that I am Wiccan. She is quite accepting, and now she has 2 friends that are Wiccan. She has yet to get used to the fact that I don't believe in the Christian God and that I believe in Apollo and Hecate and other deities of this nature. As a matter of fact, she loves religion and is kind of wondering if she wants to minor in Theology like I might do.
So, that's yesterday in a nutshell. I am so glad I was able to find another Wiccan, and I am starting to get out of the broom closet.
To all of you who are still in the broom closet, I suggest that you tell your best friend about being a Pagan first. They are usually the ones to understand you a lot more.
Much love and blessings,
Dawn )O(
Sunday, January 6, 2013
I Am Offended...!
Hello again, guys! It's me, Dawn, and I want to tell you guys about something that is making me angry at church. (Yes, in case you didn't notice, I am still in the broom closet, but I'm becoming more bold and may tell others about my actual religion.)
So, the minister is doing a series about the main questions people don't have answered, and that is why they aren't Christians (to his logic, that is). I thought it was a brilliant idea at first, but he is doing things that are very controversial to not only the church, but Pagans as well.
I have never heard the word "Pagan" so much when a minister is preaching. It seems as though he brings it up every single Sunday, and so many people are confused as to why. Are you trying to tell the church that Pagans are bad, or are you trying to drive them away from the Christian God to... I don't know, Gaia and Zeus? If you drill the word in their head, they're going to get a little curious. After all, that's what happened to me. Oh, and here's the best part.
According to him, there are Roman Pagan documents that state that Jesus was alive. Does it, like, matter where the documents are from? I mean, they're from Rome, alright. But did you have to include the word Pagan?
This minister also downsized the Pantheon that I associate with, the Greek Pantheon. It stung when he looked at me when he said the insult, about how it is "mythology" and "false deities." Let me put it this way: I am a Wiccan and a Pagan inside of a church. I respect the Bible. As a matter of fact, I'm going to highlight some teachings that I can apply to my Pagan life from there. I don't downsize the Christian God. To be perfectly honest, church saved my life. In order to preach your opinion to a bunch of people that aren't a Christian and not knowing what background they're from, you must have a certain compassion. You can't just talk lowly of the Greek Pantheon. What if there was a Pagan wanting to convert to Christianity and you offended them because they used to work with the Greek Pantheon?
He also insulted some of my views on Jesus. I know that he was a Rabbi (for those that don't know what a Rabbi is, it is a religious leader for Judaism) and spoke wise things, and I like his teachings, but I am a Wiccan. I'm not denying that he isn't the son of the Christian God, but... I'm not worshiping him, at least for this moment in time. But the minister says that if I believe that, I'm denying him and his existence.
Let me just throw a little something out there... If you worship a person, that can be considered Paganism, correct? So why does the minister focus more on Jesus? If he says that Jesus is God, he's denying Paganism in a way. It's the exact same thing that's frustrating me.
I have respect for the Christian religion because it is where I stemmed from regarding my spirituality, but this minister is getting on my nerves. Here's some points that a Pagan can pick out and argue on. Excuse me if I was venting way too much, but I can't tell the minister about how offended I am. Otherwise, everyone will start talking and... I get shunned from all of my friends and family. Hopefully you guys understand that.
Thanks for dealing with this.
May positive energies flow your way,
Dawn )O(
So, the minister is doing a series about the main questions people don't have answered, and that is why they aren't Christians (to his logic, that is). I thought it was a brilliant idea at first, but he is doing things that are very controversial to not only the church, but Pagans as well.
I have never heard the word "Pagan" so much when a minister is preaching. It seems as though he brings it up every single Sunday, and so many people are confused as to why. Are you trying to tell the church that Pagans are bad, or are you trying to drive them away from the Christian God to... I don't know, Gaia and Zeus? If you drill the word in their head, they're going to get a little curious. After all, that's what happened to me. Oh, and here's the best part.
According to him, there are Roman Pagan documents that state that Jesus was alive. Does it, like, matter where the documents are from? I mean, they're from Rome, alright. But did you have to include the word Pagan?
This minister also downsized the Pantheon that I associate with, the Greek Pantheon. It stung when he looked at me when he said the insult, about how it is "mythology" and "false deities." Let me put it this way: I am a Wiccan and a Pagan inside of a church. I respect the Bible. As a matter of fact, I'm going to highlight some teachings that I can apply to my Pagan life from there. I don't downsize the Christian God. To be perfectly honest, church saved my life. In order to preach your opinion to a bunch of people that aren't a Christian and not knowing what background they're from, you must have a certain compassion. You can't just talk lowly of the Greek Pantheon. What if there was a Pagan wanting to convert to Christianity and you offended them because they used to work with the Greek Pantheon?
He also insulted some of my views on Jesus. I know that he was a Rabbi (for those that don't know what a Rabbi is, it is a religious leader for Judaism) and spoke wise things, and I like his teachings, but I am a Wiccan. I'm not denying that he isn't the son of the Christian God, but... I'm not worshiping him, at least for this moment in time. But the minister says that if I believe that, I'm denying him and his existence.
Let me just throw a little something out there... If you worship a person, that can be considered Paganism, correct? So why does the minister focus more on Jesus? If he says that Jesus is God, he's denying Paganism in a way. It's the exact same thing that's frustrating me.
I have respect for the Christian religion because it is where I stemmed from regarding my spirituality, but this minister is getting on my nerves. Here's some points that a Pagan can pick out and argue on. Excuse me if I was venting way too much, but I can't tell the minister about how offended I am. Otherwise, everyone will start talking and... I get shunned from all of my friends and family. Hopefully you guys understand that.
Thanks for dealing with this.
May positive energies flow your way,
Dawn )O(
Friday, December 28, 2012
Wicca 101: Spells
Hello, again! It's me, Dawn, and I'd thought that since tonight is an esbat (more commonly known as a full or new moon) that I would talk to you about the subject most people would love to know most about: Magick. Many people know this as spellcasting.
To tell you the truth, most don't need the physical casting of a spell, but most consider this common. What I just found out moments ago is that prayer can be considered a spell. Depending on who your mentor is, this can vary, so you don't really take what I'm saying at face value. Once again, what you think matters when being Wiccan.
There are different methods in casting spells. I usually cast a circle to keep positive energies in and negative energies out. (I will explain this in a post following this, so do not worry!) If you do not want to cast a circle, then it is fine. Some decide to get their spells online, while others write theirs. Once again, it is up to you. However, it is more powerful if you write your own. There are many kinds of spells that you could conduct, and that depends on what you want to achieve.
When conducting a spell for love (as an example), you can use correspondences to strengthen this spell. The color red is for passionate love, and you would most likely cast it on Friday. As a note for any love spells, you must be careful. If you follow the Wiccan's Rede, you do not want to tamper with one's free will. If it is more of a general spell to find love, and it is not aimed towards anyone, I would say that that is better. Still, you would want to be very careful.
There are so many things that I could tell you guys about spells, but this will have to do, seeing as though Wicca 101 is covering certain topics briefly. In the future, I may post about different spells I have used and how they work.
Wishing you many blessings,
Dawn )O(
To tell you the truth, most don't need the physical casting of a spell, but most consider this common. What I just found out moments ago is that prayer can be considered a spell. Depending on who your mentor is, this can vary, so you don't really take what I'm saying at face value. Once again, what you think matters when being Wiccan.
There are different methods in casting spells. I usually cast a circle to keep positive energies in and negative energies out. (I will explain this in a post following this, so do not worry!) If you do not want to cast a circle, then it is fine. Some decide to get their spells online, while others write theirs. Once again, it is up to you. However, it is more powerful if you write your own. There are many kinds of spells that you could conduct, and that depends on what you want to achieve.
When conducting a spell for love (as an example), you can use correspondences to strengthen this spell. The color red is for passionate love, and you would most likely cast it on Friday. As a note for any love spells, you must be careful. If you follow the Wiccan's Rede, you do not want to tamper with one's free will. If it is more of a general spell to find love, and it is not aimed towards anyone, I would say that that is better. Still, you would want to be very careful.
There are so many things that I could tell you guys about spells, but this will have to do, seeing as though Wicca 101 is covering certain topics briefly. In the future, I may post about different spells I have used and how they work.
Wishing you many blessings,
Dawn )O(
Sunday, December 16, 2012
Wicca 101: Yuletide Greetings!
Hello, guys! It's me again!
In case you couldn't tell by the title, I'm going to explain what Yule is about, the traditions, and ways to celebrate it.
So, Yule is the second Sabbat, or Pagan holiday, of the Pagan year. The first one is Samhain, or in Layman's terms, Halloween. (Yes, that myth about Wiccans and Witches going all out for Halloween is true.) Anyways, Yule is held on the Winter Solstice. It is celebrating the rebirth of the sun and the fact that days will get longer from then on. There's many Gods and Goddesses you can worship on this day. The 2 I'll be working with are Apollo, my main God, and Demeter, Goddess of birth and children.
Traditions of Christmas don't make sense, do they? Well, allow me to explain one: the dreaded mistletoe. Pagans don't really hang it up to get couples to kiss underneath it. Believe it or not, mistletoe is hung up for protection. A feast around or on Christmas is to get the family together and bond with each other. This is also true for Pagans, but it also celebrates the sun's return. If you catch onto these traditions, and you just SO happen to be in the broom closet, notice that you can celebrate Yule like Christmas. Notice how they're less than a week near each other. Yes. This also means that during this time, Pagans and Christians can celebrate different things in unison.
Now, ways to celebrate Yule can range for most people. Some can decide if they would love to open presents and have a feast on this holiday. Others can simply acknowledge and pray to a sun God or Goddess. Usually, a ritual is performed at night. I advise that you plan out this ritual in advance. It's really helpful than just winging it. Wear the colors of Yule: green, red, white, gold, and silver. Welcome back the energies of the sun. Devote yourself to the God and Goddess again, because this is a day of renewal. There are SO MANY THINGS you could do.
Since this day focuses on Apollo, I will most likely be creative and write poetry. I'll also write a Yule chant. I'll drink tea with peppermint, a spice of Yule, and meditate. I'll cast a circle and hold a ritual. Hopefully my plans have sparked something in your interest.
Wishing you a blessed Yule,
Dawn
)O(
In case you couldn't tell by the title, I'm going to explain what Yule is about, the traditions, and ways to celebrate it.
So, Yule is the second Sabbat, or Pagan holiday, of the Pagan year. The first one is Samhain, or in Layman's terms, Halloween. (Yes, that myth about Wiccans and Witches going all out for Halloween is true.) Anyways, Yule is held on the Winter Solstice. It is celebrating the rebirth of the sun and the fact that days will get longer from then on. There's many Gods and Goddesses you can worship on this day. The 2 I'll be working with are Apollo, my main God, and Demeter, Goddess of birth and children.
Traditions of Christmas don't make sense, do they? Well, allow me to explain one: the dreaded mistletoe. Pagans don't really hang it up to get couples to kiss underneath it. Believe it or not, mistletoe is hung up for protection. A feast around or on Christmas is to get the family together and bond with each other. This is also true for Pagans, but it also celebrates the sun's return. If you catch onto these traditions, and you just SO happen to be in the broom closet, notice that you can celebrate Yule like Christmas. Notice how they're less than a week near each other. Yes. This also means that during this time, Pagans and Christians can celebrate different things in unison.
Now, ways to celebrate Yule can range for most people. Some can decide if they would love to open presents and have a feast on this holiday. Others can simply acknowledge and pray to a sun God or Goddess. Usually, a ritual is performed at night. I advise that you plan out this ritual in advance. It's really helpful than just winging it. Wear the colors of Yule: green, red, white, gold, and silver. Welcome back the energies of the sun. Devote yourself to the God and Goddess again, because this is a day of renewal. There are SO MANY THINGS you could do.
Since this day focuses on Apollo, I will most likely be creative and write poetry. I'll also write a Yule chant. I'll drink tea with peppermint, a spice of Yule, and meditate. I'll cast a circle and hold a ritual. Hopefully my plans have sparked something in your interest.
Wishing you a blessed Yule,
Dawn
)O(
Saturday, December 8, 2012
An Experience With Finding a Deity
Hey, everyone! Once again, I am posting an entry because I was reminded of the time that I found my first Deity to work with, which was (and still is) Apollo. I want to tell you about something about what happened that made it apparent I am connected with Him.
I remember, about March of this year, I was researching Wicca. Of course, I had just presented myself to the general God and Goddess. Like I had stated, I work with the Greek Pantheon and believe that certain aspects of The Lord and Lady are displayed in this pantheon. So, I had went on Wikipedia, and saw all of the Greek Gods and Goddesses. I had noticed that I was in the beginning of the alphabet.
So the mouse had hovered over Apollo and I stopped moving it. My hand began to involuntarily twitch. It almost made me click on the page for Apollo. It wasn't until after I moved the mouse that my hand STOPPED twitching. So, I moved it over the mouse once more, and once again, it twitched. I took that as a sign and have pleased Apollo ever since.
It's weird how the Universe gives you a sign when making such a decision. I should say that people should look out with these signs... Not only it is life-changing, it can be subtle, or it can be in-your-face, like my experience.
Just a little story to amuse you...
Much blessings,
Dawn )O(
I remember, about March of this year, I was researching Wicca. Of course, I had just presented myself to the general God and Goddess. Like I had stated, I work with the Greek Pantheon and believe that certain aspects of The Lord and Lady are displayed in this pantheon. So, I had went on Wikipedia, and saw all of the Greek Gods and Goddesses. I had noticed that I was in the beginning of the alphabet.
So the mouse had hovered over Apollo and I stopped moving it. My hand began to involuntarily twitch. It almost made me click on the page for Apollo. It wasn't until after I moved the mouse that my hand STOPPED twitching. So, I moved it over the mouse once more, and once again, it twitched. I took that as a sign and have pleased Apollo ever since.
It's weird how the Universe gives you a sign when making such a decision. I should say that people should look out with these signs... Not only it is life-changing, it can be subtle, or it can be in-your-face, like my experience.
Just a little story to amuse you...
Much blessings,
Dawn )O(
Thursday, November 29, 2012
Introduce Others to Wicca? - An Approach With Media
Hey, guys! It's me, Dawn, and today, I wanted to talk about a way to introduce your friends to your religion. I don't mean to convert them and show them that "Wicca is the right path," kind of introducing. I mean, get them somewhat comfortable with Wicca.
I know this is cliché, but a lot of media is depicted with Wicca. The fictional Harry Potter series has some Wiccan ideas in it. For example, Harry had trouble controlling his magickal powers until he got a wand. It's portrayed that this directs the energy better, which is true. Then there are cloaks and that sort of thing. The Houses are like their covens, if you think about it...
The point is, this sounds weird, but do some fun crafts that everyone would never think about. In the near future, I will make Harry Potter scarves and my friends love the idea. It shows that I care to put time and effort in them, and they might get their interest in Wicca sparked.
Also, a book series that I've checked out that accurately demonstrates concepts of Wicca would be the House of Night series. They cast circles, they have professors, a Priestess, worshipping the Goddess Nyx... They go as far as connecting with elements. It's amazing. So, if your friend (it may be more effective on the female friends because it's girlier) can't figure out what you do in Wicca, suggest this series. I think it's awesome because the authors are Wiccan, too!
You could also explain to them in symbols and what they mean. I don't have a pentacle/pentagram/Wiccan necklace, but if I did, I would explain the cycle of things and how they intertwine. I'd explain the Witches' Knot and what have you to them, and they would understand. A couple friends would most likely get one too.
Most of my friends are Christian, and they don't know I'm a Wiccan... But, one is more accepting and HAS read the House of Night series. One of my friends have discovered divination, and one loves faery folklore. Another actually has a Wiccan name for her middle name (Ravensong). So, in a way, they are familiar with Wicca... They just don't know what to call it yet.
I hope that these suggestions would help you. They're helping me.
Blessings and much love,
Dawn )O(
I know this is cliché, but a lot of media is depicted with Wicca. The fictional Harry Potter series has some Wiccan ideas in it. For example, Harry had trouble controlling his magickal powers until he got a wand. It's portrayed that this directs the energy better, which is true. Then there are cloaks and that sort of thing. The Houses are like their covens, if you think about it...
The point is, this sounds weird, but do some fun crafts that everyone would never think about. In the near future, I will make Harry Potter scarves and my friends love the idea. It shows that I care to put time and effort in them, and they might get their interest in Wicca sparked.
Also, a book series that I've checked out that accurately demonstrates concepts of Wicca would be the House of Night series. They cast circles, they have professors, a Priestess, worshipping the Goddess Nyx... They go as far as connecting with elements. It's amazing. So, if your friend (it may be more effective on the female friends because it's girlier) can't figure out what you do in Wicca, suggest this series. I think it's awesome because the authors are Wiccan, too!
You could also explain to them in symbols and what they mean. I don't have a pentacle/pentagram/Wiccan necklace, but if I did, I would explain the cycle of things and how they intertwine. I'd explain the Witches' Knot and what have you to them, and they would understand. A couple friends would most likely get one too.
Most of my friends are Christian, and they don't know I'm a Wiccan... But, one is more accepting and HAS read the House of Night series. One of my friends have discovered divination, and one loves faery folklore. Another actually has a Wiccan name for her middle name (Ravensong). So, in a way, they are familiar with Wicca... They just don't know what to call it yet.
I hope that these suggestions would help you. They're helping me.
Blessings and much love,
Dawn )O(
Tuesday, November 27, 2012
What is an Eclectic Wiccan?
Hi, guys! Instead of posting another Wicca 101 entry, I would like to talk about Eclectic Wiccans.
People believe that eclectic is not a tradition. And to be honest, I have looked it up, and according to the Internet, it is a blend of traditions.
I consider myself eclectic. Why? I believe women have a little more power in Wicca (Dianic) and combine it with some beliefs from all of the other traditions (more so Alexandrian than the others). Honestly...
I don't understand why people decide to say that being an Eclectic Wiccan "is not a tradition." Look on YouTube and Tumblr. There's a LOT of solitary practitioners out there and you will acknowledge that it is where many Wiccans lie.
Sorry, but I am a little annoyed.
As usual, I give you blessings and send you positive energies, loves.
)O(
Dawn
People believe that eclectic is not a tradition. And to be honest, I have looked it up, and according to the Internet, it is a blend of traditions.
I consider myself eclectic. Why? I believe women have a little more power in Wicca (Dianic) and combine it with some beliefs from all of the other traditions (more so Alexandrian than the others). Honestly...
I don't understand why people decide to say that being an Eclectic Wiccan "is not a tradition." Look on YouTube and Tumblr. There's a LOT of solitary practitioners out there and you will acknowledge that it is where many Wiccans lie.
Sorry, but I am a little annoyed.
As usual, I give you blessings and send you positive energies, loves.
)O(
Dawn
Monday, November 26, 2012
Wicca 101: The Deities
Hey, guys! Sorry I haven't posted anything in a while. My grandfather had transitioned on into another realm, and planning a funeral with my family and all has been hard work!
So, today, I will briefly talk about the deities, also known as the God and Goddess. Yes, a duotheistic perspective. Actually...
This would depend on the Wiccan/Pagan. Some believe in 1 God or 1 Goddess. Most believe in one of each. Some, like I, am polytheistic and worship many. You don't have to use Greek or Roman Mythology. Many use other cultural Deities, like Indian, Asian, Norse, etc.
Some, like I, worship different aspects of the God and Goddess. I work with Hestia, Apollo, Hecate, and Artemis the most. I can connect to them. If you can connect to them, then they might be a good fit for a deity. For example, I absolutely love to express myself, and Apollo is the God of Music, Lyrics, and Writing in general. It is easy for me to worship him, and that is why I connect with him so well.
Honestly, if you were to search this path on finding a deity, you would need to search yourself. It may not happen overnight. My first Goddess was Aphrodite, and I couldn't seem to bond with Her. Here I am, about... 3 months later, and find that a mix of Goddesses suit me.
Again, everyone is different, and everything will fall in its place when it is intended to.
So, yeah, that's the brief synopsis of the deities in the religion of Wicca.
Blessed be! )O(
-Dawn
So, today, I will briefly talk about the deities, also known as the God and Goddess. Yes, a duotheistic perspective. Actually...
This would depend on the Wiccan/Pagan. Some believe in 1 God or 1 Goddess. Most believe in one of each. Some, like I, am polytheistic and worship many. You don't have to use Greek or Roman Mythology. Many use other cultural Deities, like Indian, Asian, Norse, etc.
Some, like I, worship different aspects of the God and Goddess. I work with Hestia, Apollo, Hecate, and Artemis the most. I can connect to them. If you can connect to them, then they might be a good fit for a deity. For example, I absolutely love to express myself, and Apollo is the God of Music, Lyrics, and Writing in general. It is easy for me to worship him, and that is why I connect with him so well.
Honestly, if you were to search this path on finding a deity, you would need to search yourself. It may not happen overnight. My first Goddess was Aphrodite, and I couldn't seem to bond with Her. Here I am, about... 3 months later, and find that a mix of Goddesses suit me.
Again, everyone is different, and everything will fall in its place when it is intended to.
So, yeah, that's the brief synopsis of the deities in the religion of Wicca.
Blessed be! )O(
-Dawn
Monday, November 19, 2012
Wicca 101: Magickal Names
Hi, guys! The first thing I want to establish is that my Magickal Name has switched from Echo to Dawn. I feel as though that I have been more attached to Dawn than Echo...
So, what is actually your Magickal name? It's a name that provides privacy to those who practice Wiccan/The Craft. Of course, my real name isn't Dawn. It's something else.
Usually, Magickal Names are inspired by nature. They can consist of a first and last name. For example, my first name would be Dawn because I am a morning person. I love sunlight and watching the sunrise. I won't tell you guys my new last name to keep a little more privacy, but I admit, it does sound a little Harry Potter-ish. That means like "Lovegood," "Ravenclaw..." That sort of thing.
Finding it is an interesting process. Sometimes you can get them through dreams, through meditation... I actually got mine from a television show. Actually, that character inspired me to try Wicca and its ways. Here I am now. You could even make up one. Like myself, some change theirs because it doesn't suit them or they feel like they need to devote themselves to another aspect of nature.
Your name has energies that come along with your name. So if you name yourself "Skullcrusher Nightmare," you just might get some bad vibes. And, if you name yourself after a God or Goddess, you will take the characteristics of that deity. If you act in malevolent ways while being named after a God/Goddess, the results ARE NOT GOING TO BE PRETTY.
I hope you'll find a Magickal Name that is close to you!
Blessed Be! )O(
Dawn
So, what is actually your Magickal name? It's a name that provides privacy to those who practice Wiccan/The Craft. Of course, my real name isn't Dawn. It's something else.
Usually, Magickal Names are inspired by nature. They can consist of a first and last name. For example, my first name would be Dawn because I am a morning person. I love sunlight and watching the sunrise. I won't tell you guys my new last name to keep a little more privacy, but I admit, it does sound a little Harry Potter-ish. That means like "Lovegood," "Ravenclaw..." That sort of thing.
Finding it is an interesting process. Sometimes you can get them through dreams, through meditation... I actually got mine from a television show. Actually, that character inspired me to try Wicca and its ways. Here I am now. You could even make up one. Like myself, some change theirs because it doesn't suit them or they feel like they need to devote themselves to another aspect of nature.
Your name has energies that come along with your name. So if you name yourself "Skullcrusher Nightmare," you just might get some bad vibes. And, if you name yourself after a God or Goddess, you will take the characteristics of that deity. If you act in malevolent ways while being named after a God/Goddess, the results ARE NOT GOING TO BE PRETTY.
I hope you'll find a Magickal Name that is close to you!
Blessed Be! )O(
Dawn
Saturday, November 17, 2012
Wicca 101: What is Wicca?
Many beginners of this religion may come and ask, "What IS Wicca? Oh, it's witchcraft, right? I must be Wiccan because I am doing witchcraft." That is not the case.
Wicca is a religion. It branches off from the generalized category of Paganism. Wicca focuses on energies from the aspects of the elements (Water, Earth,Air, And Fire) and the form of the spirit. This is best represented by the pentacle or pentagram. Both symbols show that these aspects are connected. Also, everyone is made up of these elements.
A stereotype about Wiccans is that we "worship the devil." As a matter of fact, we do not believe in the devil. We believe in the God and Goddess. In other words, we are a polytheistic religion.
There's no real "book" of this religion. We decide to make our own. It's known as the Book of Shadows. (There will be separate post about this, as there is a lot to this book.)
Unlike other religions that are structured, Wicca is more of a religion that is adapted by you, for you. You do whatever feel is right. Most Wiccans believe in the Wiccans Rede's famous lines. In Layman's terms, it is: Do what you want, but do not hurt a person or tamper with free will.
There's a lot more that I have not mentioned, but do not fret. I will cover some more of the basics, dears.
Wicca is a religion. It branches off from the generalized category of Paganism. Wicca focuses on energies from the aspects of the elements (Water, Earth,Air, And Fire) and the form of the spirit. This is best represented by the pentacle or pentagram. Both symbols show that these aspects are connected. Also, everyone is made up of these elements.
A stereotype about Wiccans is that we "worship the devil." As a matter of fact, we do not believe in the devil. We believe in the God and Goddess. In other words, we are a polytheistic religion.
There's no real "book" of this religion. We decide to make our own. It's known as the Book of Shadows. (There will be separate post about this, as there is a lot to this book.)
Unlike other religions that are structured, Wicca is more of a religion that is adapted by you, for you. You do whatever feel is right. Most Wiccans believe in the Wiccans Rede's famous lines. In Layman's terms, it is: Do what you want, but do not hurt a person or tamper with free will.
There's a lot more that I have not mentioned, but do not fret. I will cover some more of the basics, dears.
A Brief Introduction
Hi there! My Magickal Name is Echo! As of right now, I've been studying Wicca for about a year. I'm eclectic, and proud of it! I'm also in the broom closet right now, which means no one knows for various reasons. On top of this, I'm 17.
On this blog, I'll be posting information on Wicca and Witchcraft,
thoughts pertaining to my path, and things that would be helpful for incoming Wiccans to start with.
To be honest, I have a feeling many are going to get a lot of use from this blog. As for when I'll post, I'll try to do it daily. I can't promise that I will DO it everyday, but...
Anyways, I'll post something else later tonight.
On this blog, I'll be posting information on Wicca and Witchcraft,
thoughts pertaining to my path, and things that would be helpful for incoming Wiccans to start with.
To be honest, I have a feeling many are going to get a lot of use from this blog. As for when I'll post, I'll try to do it daily. I can't promise that I will DO it everyday, but...
Anyways, I'll post something else later tonight.
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