Week Eleven

24 Oct 08 - 31 Oct 08
Days 81 through 88

Blessed Samhain! I am in a lot of physical pain right now. I made a witch costume (took 3 days!) that I was determined to wear to work today. After being on my feet for 7 hours I came home to end up trick-or-treating with my babies. I'm on the verge of tears from the pain in my feet.

My youngest had her first birthday on the 26th.

I've been taking it easy. Just waiting for the next quarter at the Pagan Campus. It starts in a couple of days -- and also in a few days are my exams for WIcca Revealed and Beginning Tarot.

Week Ten

16 Oct 08 - 23 Oct 08
Days 73 through 80

After putting off my Beginning Tarot exam, I completely forgot to do it. Silly me. I didn't finally remember about it until the 21st. I missed a couple of questions so I recieved a 92%. I'm very happy with that grade. The lessons are very intense. I'd only be disappointed if my grade was below a 90.

We're finishing up in Magickal Handcrafting. I'll be getting my certificate soon. :)

Week Nine

08 Oct 08 - 15 Oct 08
Days 65 through 72

Divination night with the Sage Circle is tonight at my house. I am super excited. They will be here soon and we get to play with all sorts of divintaion tools.

I have a few makeshift tools that I made. My Ouija board is from an old cardboard box that I just painted and laminated. I'm thinking of using it for my final project in my handcrafting class. We have to just write a paper on how we make a magickal tool.

On the 12th I took my first exam for Wicca Revealed. Got a 100 and have started studying lesson two. I'm very much enjoying this bit. I didn't know the Creation Myth, so there is something to add into my new information.

I need to start getting ready for tonight...

Week Eight

30 Sep 08 - 07 Oct 08
Days 57 through 64

I am still thinking about last week's lesson about glass and metal. Yeah, that will never happen. Let me reiterate that I am not all graceful.

This week's lesson we learned about jewelry making. I love it. I have so many idea for talismans, amulets and charms but no way of getting the supplies right now. Every time I think of beaded work I always think of Bobbi. She has such beautiful magickal peices and you can feel so much power and love in them when you hold them.

Magickal Handcrafting is finishing up soon -- by the end of this month. Our last lesson is title Finishing Touches. I've yet to even glance at it since it has no assignment, but the Final Exam will be open soon.

So I kept getting super antsy about my Wicca Revealed class that I kept going to Magicka. I ended up joining Beginning Tarot. At least with this course the exams are every two weeks and not 28 days. Right now I'm reading the history, some popular creators and decks, and the Fool.

I'm hoping all of this learning won't make my head explode.

Week Seven

22 Sep 08 - 29 Sep 08
Days 49 through 56

Mabon was spent in Omaha with my family and I just said a small thanks to the Divine for everything I have in this world. We passed a hit deer that someone had kindly moved to the side of the road and I took this as a natural symbol for the sacrifice of the Sun. The deer had been a quite mature buck so I associated him with God as we drove passed.

In Magickal Handcrafting qw are on glass and metal. The procedures and precautions needed make me know for a fact that I will not be using this crafting technique any time soon. I have drawn much blood just handsewing blankets. No sharp or acidic products for me -- thanks!

I am getting super antsy for my first test in my Wicca Revealed course. I decided to look into Alexandrian tradition as I already own books by the Farrars and I don't want to search online. I'm reading The Witches' Bible and so far I am very pleased with how they are explaining everything.

Week Six

14 Sep 08 - 21 Sep 08
Days 41-48

So on Monday I decided to join the Magicka School. Someone had mentioned the free course they gave on Wicca and how awesome it was so I had to go and check it out. The upside is that you get to go at your own pace. The downside is that the course material is truly intended for a year training and the minimum wait time allowed to pass before your first test (and future exams) is 28 days. On the positive--it forces you to actually analyze the material and take your time with it.

For the first lesson it gives you the "founding fatherss" for a lack of a better term. I have to do a research project on one of the traditions and because I'm horribly lame I chose Gardner. I thought I was just being lazy for choosing Gardner but the truth of the matter is that before I became eclectic as I am now, my main study focus was in the Gardnerian tradition.

Meh. I don't know -- maybe I'll just do Alexandrian or Seax-Wica. Though the Feri tradition is inticing. I need to re-read Starhawk.

The past two lessons in handcrafting were of sculpting and molds, and wood. I'm now thinking of creating icons for divinity from clay since that is a lot cheaper than paying $50+ for statuary. I'll probably never do anything with wood. My mother used to be an artisan and her wood carvings were wonderful but the tools scared the crap out of me. I am not very graceful -- I'd carve my hand instead.

Tomorrow is Mabon and I have nothing planned.

Week Five

06 Sep 08 - 13 Sep 08
Days 33 through 40

Part 2 of Nature crafts was very interesting. This part was mainly focussed on animal - skins, feathers, etc. I really doubt I'll be working with any animal skins other than cow leather, but reading the correspondences for each animal was inspiring. Maybe I'll grab a handful of feathers and make a dream catcher?

So I re-read my past entries and just realized that I forgot to mention my night at Pagan House -- the Pagan church in Omaha. Deena picked us up and we had a healing ritual in the sanctuary. I was able to meet Rebecca who is one of our newest members. It was a very enjoyable experience but the setting made me wish I had a church closer to home. It also made me want to start my own church or group. We'll see what the future holds for that idea. I know that right now I am nowhere near qualified.

Week Four

29 Aug 2008 - 05 Sep 08
Days 25 through 32

A month has officially passed -- can you believe it? I think it passed by rather quickly, which is always nice. I'm not sure if I will do an entire 366 days for my training or not. That amount of time seems daunting when I sit down and think about it.

The past lesson in handcrafting was part 1 of Nature crafts. The great thing about this lesson (other than my 100 on my assignment) is that I realized that I do a bit of nature crafts without realizing it.

Since I homeschool my daughters, for my eldest's science projects we always collect things from outside and make collages and such. If they are still pretty moist with life, I press them in the pages of a sketchbook. When I dry them out or are rocks or feathers, I put them in a plastic bag - a cleat Ziploc for display purposes.

I sing and talk to the plants when I prune or harvest them, which is very magickal. I am liking finding out that even my every day habits are just as magickal.

Week Three

21 Aug 08 - 28 Aug 08
Days 17 through 24

We are learning about needle crafts in my class this week. Both my last assignment and this assignment earned me a 100%

Now I already know plenty of needle crafts, but it was a great refresher. One thing that I'm thinking of doing is a spell-infused quilt for the girls by using certain colors of fabrics and thread.

I was going to add more to this entry but my mind just shut down.

Esbats

Generally speaking, any ritual held at any time other than a Sabbat is an Esbat. Full
moon rituals are Esbats, however, some hold rituals on the New Moon as well. Full moon
rituals are normally held on the full moon, but on times where this is not possible, one
to two days before or after the actual phase will suffice.

There are 13 full moons in a regular year (12 in a leap-year). When a second full moon
occurs in a month, known as the Blue Moon, the power of the main moon of that month is
doubled. This list is of the Esbats and their correspondences



January - Cold or Wolf Moon - protection, confidence, strength

February - Chaste Moon - maiden goddess Brigid, fertility, strength

March - Seed Moon - new growth, seeds of success, seeds of spirituality

April - Hare Moon - fertility, renewal, wisdom

May - Faerie Moon - faerie power, wisdom, love, romance, good health

June - Honey or Mead Moon - marriage, love, romance, abundance, career, health

July - Herb Moon - strength, magical potency, herb harvest, health, success

August - Barley Moon - grain goddess, sun gods, bounty, fertility, marriage, health

September - Wine Moon - life's blood, protection, confidence, strength

October - Blood Moon - rememberance, protection, stability, resolutions

November - Snow Moon - frost faeries, hope, protection, warmth, healing

December - Oak or Long-Nights Moon - Merlin, goodwill, peace, love, protection

Below is a basic outline on performing ritual on an esbat.



-Cleanse Self and Space
-Altar Devotion
-Prayer/Salute
-Cast Cricle
-Call Quarters
-Unite Energies (if more than just self)
-Invocation -Preform work (such as prayers, healing, spells, etc.)
-Ground energy (Cakes and Ale)
-Thank Gods/Salute
-Dismiss quarters
-Release/Break Circle

Food for thought: How do you plan on honoring these sacred days? Do you believe all these celebrations are an important part of your spirituality? Why or why not?

Wheel of the Year

The Wheel of the Year (The Eight Pagan Holidays)
The greater and lesser sabbats form an eightfold around the Wheel of the Year. We are all a part of the great design of the Universe, changing and returning to a beginning.

The Greater Sabbats
Samhain (commonly pronounced as SOW-when) - Festival celebrated on October 31. Also known as All Hallow's Eve, All Saint's Eve, Day of the Dead, Halloween, November Eve, Hallowmas, Feast of Souls, Feast of the Dead, Feast of Apples. Samhain marks the symbolic death of the Sun God and His passing into the "land of the young," where he awaits rebirth of the Mother Goddess at Yule.

Imbolc - Festival normally celebrated on February 2. Also known as Candlemas, Lupercalia, Feast of Pan, Feast of Torches, Feast of the Waxing Light, Oimelc, Imbolg, Brigit's Day, Groundhog's Day. Imbolc celebrates the first stirrings of spring and the recovery of the Goddess from giving birth to the Sun God at Yule.

Beltane - Festival celebrated on April 30 and/or May 1. Also known as May Eve, Roodmas, Walpurgis Night, Cethsamhain, and has variant spellings. Beltane celebrates the symbolic union, mating, or marriage of the Goddess and God, and link in with the approaching summer months.

Lughnasadh - Festival celebrated on July 31 and/or August 1. Also known as August Eve, Lammas, Feast of Bread. Lughnasadh marks the first harvest, when the fruits of the Earth are cut and stored for the dark winter months, and when the God mysteriously weakens as the days grow shorter.


The Lesser Sabbats
Yule - On or around December 21, the winter solstice. Marks the rebirth of the Sun God from the Earth Goddess. A time of joy and celebration during the miseries of winter. The shortest day of the year

Ostara - On or around March 21, the spring equinox. Ostara marks the beginning of true, astronomical spring, when snow and ice make way for green. As such, it is a fire and fertility festival, celebrating the return of the Sun, the God and the fertility of the Earth, the Goddess.

Midsummer - On or around June 21, the summer solstices, also known as Litha. Midsummer marks the point of the year when the Sun is symbolically at the height of its powers, and so too the God. The longest day of the year.

Mabon - On or around September 21, the autumn equinox. Celebrates the second harvest. Nature is preparing for winter. Mabon is a vestige of ancient harvest festivals which, in some form or another, were once nearly universal among peoples of the Earth

On the Equinoxes, day and night are equally long; these are the days of great power in terms of universal balance. Witches view the Solstices as festive days, when the Equinoxes become days of reflection and self-examination.


Below is a general outline for procedure during a Sabbat ritual.

• Cleanse Self and Space
• Altar Devotion
• Prayer/Salute
• Caste Cricle
• Call Quarters
• Unite Energies (if more than just self)
• Invocation
• Enactment or Observance of Festival
• Dance or raise energies
• Ground energy (Cakes and Ale)
• Thank Gods/Salute
• Dismiss quarters
• Release/Break Circle

Week Two

13 Aug 2008 - 20 Aug 2008
Days 9 through 16

So far I'm enjoying my Magickal Handcrafting class. This week was paper crafts. I think what I liked the best is learning how to properly bind a book. I already knew how to make paper, so now with binding knowledge, I'm going to re-do my entire Book of Shadows.

I've already begun to rewrite all the basic information for Wicca (I'll do all the spells and such last) and am using markers to color code the pages. Guidelines will be in black, grey, and maybe brown. The section on love will be in pink and red; prosperity in green; healing in blues; to bring energy and confidence will be done in yellow and orange while meditations and chants will be done in purples. I don't know what colors everything else will be -- still very much up in the air.

I am liking how this craft class is really making me think about the way my magickal tools should be.

Deity

Helpful resouces:

Pantheon Index: http://www.web.raex.com/~obsidian/PanIndex.html
Godchecker: http://www.godchecker.com/pantheon/index.php
Encyclopedia Mythica: http://www.pantheon.org

Read Mythology by Edith Hamilton (This is strictly Greek and Roman)
Read The Goddess Path by Patricia Monoghan

Week One

05 Aug 2008 - 12 Aug 2008
Days 1 through 8

Most people think I must be out of my mind to be doing this. By "this" I mean my "Year and a Day" training. Now I've been a practicing Pagan for almost ten years now. I've already gone through my training. It took me almost two years to fully understand Wicca and where it stood in my life. But lately I've felt like I've reached a spiritual plateau, where everything just stopped inspiring me and my soul just flat-lined. So I decided then to start from the beginning and do a bit of a spiritual journey to test my knowledge and watch my spiritual growth.

On the 5th, I decided to join the Pagan Online Campus (http://www.thepagancampus.net/) again. I used to take some classes there (that I never quite finished) and chose to register for Magickal Handcrafting. I'm thinking the best way to actually pass something is to only take one class at a time instead of two and space out my assignment instead of waiting until the last minute.

I've already done my first lesson for the week and recieved a 100% for the assignment. This week it was about basic correspondences for color and some basic crafting knowledge. I am hoping that by the end of the class I will be able to make more professional tools and then some.

Now the course is weekly, however, the only reason I will be updating this journal weekly is because that is all the time I really have to write down my feelings. With two very small children, it becomes difficult to keep a diary, so a weekly journal should work out well.

Here's to a new beginning.

Libation

In essence, libation is an offering given to the Gods. In my personal practice, I do not use wine; I do not like alcohol. So it is substituted with grape or apple juice. Sometimes liquid is not available and I offer a small meal or other offering to the Gods. Libation (as in a liquid offering) is not always needed.

Libation is an act of honoring a deity by offering a portion of wine and other liquids. In modern Witchcraft libations are usually given with wine following moon rituals. Each member pours out a small portion of wine from a chalice upon the ground as they look upward toward the moon. In some traditions remnants of the ritual meal, such as cookies, or pieces of cake, are tossed toward the moon as an additional offering. In the closing, the members perform the custom of "kissing the hand" to the moon, which involves kissing the left hand and raising it to the moon. A modern version of the older custom is "throwing a kiss" to the moon.

Source: http://www.themystica.com/mystica/articles/l/libation.html

Tips on Writing Your Own Conjuration

When writing your own conjuration, take into consideration the following:

• Designed in prose that is acceptable to you
• Length it takes you to make the chosen number of passes
• Specify or trigger an appropriate visualization from yourself
• Explain precisely what the circle is going to do
• May invoke quarters, ancestors, or Divinity

How to Write and Perform a Spell

Below is a basic guidline that you can use in writing a spell

Purpose of Spell:

What exactly do you hope to achieve?

Does this contradict your beliefs?

Could this harm anyone or does it attempt to take away free will?

Date, time, and astrological phase when used:

Decide what day, lunar phase, and astrological phase will work best for this purpose.

List of ingredientes and/or supplies needed:

Decide what tools you will use. This includes your ritual tools (more about ritual tools in later lessons) and your herbs, candles, stones.

Specific Location required:

Does this spell need to take place outdoors or indoors? Will a certain location enforce a part of this spell or an element?

Deities invoked during preparation and/or use:

What deity or deities should you invoke for this spell, if any. Research the deity or deities you are connected or drawn to before using them for a spell. They may have a negative effect on your spell. When in doubt, you can always refer to the God or Goddess as a blanket deity. Not all Wiccans use specific names for deity.

Step by step instructions for preparation and/or use:

Using the Spell Outline, write your step-by-step instructions.

Results:

Did the spell work?

How long did it take to work?

Were there any unexpected results?

Did it turn out how you planned?

What did you experience while casting the spell?

What should you do differently next time?

Below is a basic outline on what to do when performing a spell

Ritual Preparation

Set everything up before you start your ritual, so you don’t have to worry about forgetting something at the last minute.

Cleanse yourself and your magickal space.

Many Wiccans take a ritual bath before any major spells or rituals. Clean your ritual space, physically & spiritually.

Cast the Circle

Call the Quarters (Invoke the Elements)

Invocation of the Divine

Cast Your Spell

Using your research, decide who should be where when (if working in a group). Using the tools you decided on, raise energy for your purpose. You may decide to chant or sing during this time. When you have raised the power needed, direct it to your purpose.

Cakes and Wine

Some people choose to have Cakes & Wine after they have closed the circle.

Thanking the Divine

Release the Quarters (Banish the Elements)

Close the Circle

Source: http://institute.touchofenchantment.com


Remember that these are only guidelines. You can tweak any of it to better suit your needs at that given time.

Spell Work

Helpful resource:
Read: Before you Cast a Spell by Carl McColman

Food for thought:

Tree Meditation

Get comfortable, sit with your spine straight to allow the energies to flow properly. Also for this reason don't cross arms or legs. Close your eyes. Think of the moment that you first woke up this morning, and go through the day , event by event , letting it go , until you reach the here and now.
Now you are here, relax.

Concentrate on your toes, all of your attention focused there.
Imagine a beautiful warm golden summer ocean wave, wash over your toes ,staying for the count of three and then as it draws away again , it takes all the tension from your toes with it.

Your attention is then transferred to your feet, again the wave laps at your feet for the count of three, washing away the strain.

Your Focus is now on your calves and again up washes the delicious wave to rid you of the tension stored there

As it washes to your knees, it feels lovely against your skin

Thighs, all is relaxed.

Hips, all stress is washed away.

Belly, count to three, A feeling of peace

Chest, loving energies wash over you

Shoulders and arms, and they totally relax.

Neck , the water massages the stress away

Head , gently after the count of three it calmly washes all tension away , leaving you feeling clear and relaxed.

I want you now to imagine before you a tree. It is exuding a calm and relaxed atmosphere and you feel very welcomed and relaxed. Go to your tree . Explore the leaves, what sort of tree is it?, are there leaves? what is the texture of the bark? what is the soil?

Feel yourself being welcomed by the tree. Why not hug it in greeting? sit next to the tree, with your back leaned against it , and as you do you feel let in to the aura of this tree, and accepted at a innermost level.

You feel you are at one with the tree, and you realise that you have established an awareness that allows you to transcend into the essence of its being.

Feel your roots deep in the ground, deep into Mother Earth. Seeking nutrients and water , discovering in the darkness an intimacy with the soil. Listen, you can hear the water flowing deep underground, feel the cool caressing touch of it. Drink deep the water to quench this trees thirst.

Travel up now, to the trunk of the tree. Feel the potency, the power, feel the stability. Hidden within are secrets, secrets that will endure the life of the tree. Explore the life force here and gain strength from the knowledge found here.

Travel again now , further up the tree, to the swaying branches. Fresh air, scented deliciously with the scent of leaves. sunlight is shinning upon the leaves, giving power, giving energy, nurturing it. Feel the sun also nurturing you. Feel joy at the playful wind playing amongst the leaves and twigs .Feel joy at the beauty around you.

Slowly you travel back down the tree, to the point that you entered.
Feel the link between you and the tree slowly dissipate, slowly , lovingly, dissolve. Leaving a great scenes of camaraderie and mutual respect. Bow and thank the tree, in a means that seems suitable to you.

Slowly and in your own time, become aware of your self and your surroundings. Stretch. become aware of the other people here tonight. when your ready open your eyes.

Source: http://www.wiccanway.net/sylvan12.html

After you are done, answer the following questions:

Did you have any trouble doing this exercise?

If so, what was difficult?

How did you feel before starting this exercise?

How did you feel after this exercise?

What did you experience during this exercise?

What kind of tree was it?

What season did the tree resemble? (Were there leaves? What color were they?)

Describe the tree as well as you can and explain the surroundings.

What thoughts crossed your mind during this exercise? (You do not have to answer this, but please keep track of this in your journal. You may notice patterns that you need to address).

Magick and Energy

Helpful resources:
What is Magick:
http://www.wicca.com/celtic/wicca/magick.htm

Raising Energy:
http://www.paganspath.com/magik/raise-energy.htm
http://www.angelfire.com/on/wicca/RaisingEnergy.html

Grounding and Centering:
http://www.witchscauldron.net/cauldron/center.htm
http://www.buzzle.com/editorials/6-13-2006-99111.asp
http://healing.about.com/cs/uc_directory/a/uc_groundewing3.htm


Food for thought:
What is your definition of magick?
Why do you think it is important for Wiccans to work with magickal energy?

Air Meditation

Sit in a comfortable position where you can feel the movement of air—either outside or near an open window. Light an incense of your choice, and focus on the swirling smoke. Watch it curl into the air as you and consider the element of air. Play music if it helps you meditate, and breathe deeply. Think of the air we breathe. Think of wind and its power. Air is the element of the intellect and of communication, so consider all aspects of the mind as well. Imagine the air currents moving all around you. Do this for the length of time that it takes your incense to burn.

By: Ember
Source: http://www.llewellyn.com/free/spell.php?spellid=2280

Basic Day Correspondences

Monday

Aspect: Female

Planet: Moon

Colors: white, silver, creams, light grays

Energies: women’s mysteries, protection, emotions, dreams, clairvoyance, home, family, medicine, female fertility, messages, theft, voyages, subconscious, healing, sisterhood, small animals and children, the feminine side of men, motherhood

Tree: Willow

Tuesday

Aspect: Male

Planet: Mars

Colors: reds, some oranges

Energies: courage, revenge, power over enemies, higher education, endurance, violence, fast action, surgery, breaking away of negative spells, matrimony, war, prison, hunting, politics and physical competitions, leadership, lust, any blood healing

Tree: Holly

Wednesday

Aspect: Male

Planet: Mercury

Colors: yellows, grays, violets, opalescent colors

Energies: mental clarity, communications, writing, strategy, divination, young people, knowledge, business negotiations, teaching, additions, reason, debt, fear, loss, self-improvements and healings, perceptions, groups, travel

Tree: Hazel

Thursday

Aspect: Male

Planet: Jupiter

Colors: royal purple, royal blue

Energies: luck, growth, expansion, generosity, male fertility, older men, masculine side of female, legal matters, health, honor, wealth, clothing, desires, men’s professions, spiritual attainment

Tree: Oak

Friday

Aspect: Female

Planet: Venus

Colors: pink, aqua, greens, pastels

Energies: love and pleasure, peace, romance, marriage, attraction, friendships, gentleness, ease, music, partnerships, art, sexual matters, affairs of the heart, physical beauty, scents and perfumes, social activities, women’s problems, protection, affairs

Tree: Apple

Saturday

Aspect: Female

Planet: Saturn

Colors: black, dark purples, dark grays, indigo

Energies: obstacles to overcome, a block, spirit communication, meditation, life, freedom, self-discipline, protection, limitations to give or break, locating lost items and people, the elderly, endings, deaths, the destroying of diseases and pests, constricting and those constricting you, psychic defense

Tree: Alder

Sunday

Aspect: Male

Planet: Sun

Colors: oranges, yellows, golds, white

Energies: health, leadership, healing, prosperity, self-knowledge, happiness, ego, hope, joy, strength, individuality, authority figures, fatherhood, husbands, protection, power, spirituality, promotions, fortune

Tree: Birch

Basic Color Correspondences

Black: meditation rituals, hex work, uncrossing rituals and spells to banish evil spirits and negative forces, rest, hidden matters, stops gossiping and meddling, and for any work invoking the Crone. Also for divination and protection.

Blue: magick that involves honor, loyalty, peace, tranquility, truth, wisdom, protection during sleep, astral projection and spells to induce prophetic dreams. Good for water magick as well.

Brown: spells to locate lost objects, improve powers of concentration and telepathy, and for protection of familiars and household pets. This is also used for grounding, stability, friendship, and earth magick.

Gold: spells that attract the power of cosmic influences, and rituals to honor solar deities. Also for attraction and prosperity.

Green: spells involving fertility, success, good luck, prosperity, money, rejuvenation and ambition, and rituals to counteract greed and jealousy, also for abundance, faith, and maturity. Can also be used for earth magick.

Grey: spells to neutralize negative influences. Glamouries.

Orange: spells to stimulate energy and motivation, kinship, kindness, warmth, work, career, gain, and opportunity.

Pink: love spells and rituals involving friendship or femininity.

Purple: spirituality, psychic manifestations, healing, and spells involving power, success, independence, and household protection.

Red: fertility rites, aphrodisiacs, passionate love, and spells involving sexual passion, health, physical strength, revenge, anger, willpower, courage, and magnetism. Also for fire magick.

Silver: spells and rituals to remove negativity, encourage stability, and attract the influence of the Goddess. Also for psychism, money, and moon magick.

White: consecration rituals, meditation, divinization, exorcism, and spells that involve healing, clairvoyance, truth, peace, spiritual strength, and lunar energy. You may also use white to substitute any color.

Yellow: spells involving confidence, attraction, intellect, healing, persuasion, communication, and air magick.

I am very aware that there are many more colors out there, but this is just a very small list of colors that I've compiled that are commonly used.

Moon Magick Correspondences

Waxing Moon - the time from the New Moon through the first quarter to the Full Moon is the proper time to perform healing rituals, positive magick, and spells that increase love, good luck, and growth of any kind, sexual desire, and wealth.

Full Moon – the period of the Full Moon increases the powers of extrasensory perception, and is the proper time to perform lunar Goddess invocations, fertility rituals, transformations, spirit conjurations, and spells that increase psychic abilities and prophetic dreams. According to ancient European folklore, the power of the Full Moon can also magically transform man into beast and vice versa.

Waning Moon - the time from the Full Moon through the last quarter to the New Moon is the proper time to perform destructive magick and spells that remove curses, hexes, jinxes, end bad relationships, reverse love spells and aphrodisiacs break bad habits and unhealthy addictions, undo negative influences, and decrease fever and pain.

New Moon – the period of the New Moon, when the moon is dark or black, is the time for rest and attainment of desires. It is the best time to prepare for the new wishes and to form your requests very seriously. Take a break and give yourself a rest.

Moon in Aires – is the ideal time to cast spells that involve authority, leadership, willpower, warfare, and spiritual conversions of rebirth. It is also the proper lunar phase in which to perform healing rituals for ailments of the face, head, or brain. Candle colors: red, crimson, scarlet, burgundy. Metal: iron. Elemental: salamander

Moon in Taurus – is the ideal time to practice all forms of love magick, and to cast spells that involve real estate, material acquisitions and money. It is also the proper lunar phase in which to perform healing rituals for ailments of the throat, neck, or ears. Candle colors: all shades of green, turquoise, and pink. Metal: copper. Elemental: gnome

Moon in Gemini – is the ideal time to cast spells that involve communication, change of residence, writing, public relations, activities, and travel. It is also the proper lunar phase in which to perform healing rituals for ailments of the shoulders, arms, hands, or lungs. Candle colors: mauve. Metal: mercury. Elemental: sylph

Moon in Cancer – is the ideal time to perform rituals honoring lunar deities, and to cast spells that involve the home and all aspects of domestic life. It is also the proper lunar phase in which to perform healing rituals for ailments of the chest or stomach. Candle colors: silver, grey, white. Metal: silver. Elemental: undine

Moon in Leo – is the ideal time to cast spells that involve authority, power over others, courage, fertility, and childbirth. It is also the proper lunar phase in which to perform healing rituals for the ailments of the upper back, spine, or heart. Candle colors: gold, yellow, orange. Metal: gold. Elemental: salamander

Moon in Virgo – is the ideal time to cast spells that involve employment, intellectual matters, health, and dietary concerns. It is also the proper lunar phase in which to perform healing rituals for ailments of the intestines or nervous system. Candle colors: navy blue, rust orange. Metal: mercury. Elemental: gnome

Moon in Libra – is the ideal time to cast spells that involve artistic work, justice, court cases, partnerships and unions, mental stimulation, and karmic, spiritual, or emotional balance. It is also the proper lunar phase in which to perform healing rituals for ailments of the lower back or kidneys. Candle colors: royal blue. Metal: copper. Elemental: sylph

Moon in Scorpio – is the ideal time to cast spells that involve sexual matters, power, psychic growth, secrets, and fundamental transformations. It is also the proper lunar phase in which to perform healing rituals for ailments of the reproductive organs. Candle colors: red, black. Metal: iron. Elemental: undine

Moon in Sagittarius – is the ideal time to cast spells that involve horses, travel, publications, legal matters, sports activities, and truth. It is also the proper lunar phase in which to perform healing rituals for ailments of the liver, thighs, or hips. Candle colors: purple, dark blue. Metal: tin. Elemental: salamander

Moon in Capricorn – is the ideal time to cast spells that involve organization, ambition, recognition, career, and political matters. It is also the proper lunar phase in which to perform healing rituals for ailments of the knees, bones, teeth, or skin. Candle colors: black, dark brown. Metal: lead. Elemental: gnome.

Moon in Aquarius – is the ideal time to cast spells that involve science, freedom, creative expression, problem-solving, extrasensory abilities, friendship, and the breaking of bad habits or unhealthy addictions. It is also the proper lunar phase in which to perform healing rituals for ailments of the calves, ankles, or blood. Candle colors: light blue. Metal: uranium. Elemental: sylph

Moon in Pisces – is the ideal time to cast spells that involve dream work, clairvoyance, telepathy, music, and the creative arts. It is also the proper lunar phase in which to perform healing rituals for ailments of the feet or lymph glands. Candle colors: aquamarine, lavender. Metal: tin. Elemental: undine

All spells and rituals that involve the element of earth (such as Gaia-healing) should be performed when the moon is positioned in one of the three astrological earth signs: Taurus, Virgo, and Capricorn.

Those that involve the element of fire should be performed when the moon is positioned in one of the three astrological fire signs: Aires, Leo, and Sagittarius.

Those that involve the element of air should be performed when the moon is positioned in one of the three astrological air signs: Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius.

Those that involve the element of water should be performed when the moon is positioned in one of the three astrological water signs: Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces.

Earth and Sky Meditation

There must be a balance of earth and sky energy in each of us. Both are essential to our lives. Attuning to earth keeps us grounded and secure. Connecting to sky reminds us to dream and wish. Go outside on a bright, sunny day. Choose a firm spot to stand on. Make sure you can see the sky. Stand with your legs spread apart in a V shape. Make sure your footing is secure. Raise your arms outstretched in a V toward the sky. The V shape is symbolic of opening up to receive energy. When ready, say:

I am balanced between earth and sky. I walk with my feet on the ground. (Look at your feet planted on the earth.)
I walk with my head in the clouds.
(Look above at the joyful clouds.)
I am balanced between earth and sky. So mote it be!

The Tools

Athame (pronounced AH-tha-meh) - This is the magickal ritual knife used to direct personal power. The handle is usually of a dark color to absorb energies and temporarily store it. It is not used for physical cutting but instead used to direct energy. It is a masculine tool and is represented by the Fire element.

Bolline- This is simply a working knife that is used for physical cuttings such as herbs or flowers, or to mark candles, or anything else that is to be used magickally. The handle is usually white to separate itself from the athame.

Censer- This is simply an incense burner. It can be any shape - from the swinging thuribles of the Catholic Church to a simple seashell. You can make one with a bowl or cup half filled with salt or sand. The salt absorbs the heat and prevents the bowl from cracking. Incense sticks can be pushed into the salt or cones can be placed on its surface. In ceremonial magick, spirits are sometimes commanded to appear in the smoke. The Gods can usually be seen in the smoke. The censer is a masculine tool and is represented by the Air element.

Cauldron- This is a symbol of the Goddess. It also symbolizes Water, reincarnation, immortality, and inspiration. Though it is normally used as a focal point for rituals, such as burning a fire within or holding flowers, it may be used for cooking and potion making.

Cup- Also known as the chalice, the cup is simply a cauldron with a handle. The cup symbolizes the Goddess and the element of Water. Though you can use it to hold water for ritual, it can be used to hold the ritual drink if any.

Pentacle- This is usually a flat piece of brass, gold, silver, wood, etc. inscribed with a pentagram, the interlaced five-point star. It represents Earth and is a tool used to place charms, amulets, or other objects to be blessed or consecrated. It is an old symbol of protection and is sometimes used to evoke the Gods.

Wand- This is an instrument of invocation and is represented by Air. It is used to call upon the Gods and sometimes used to direct energy, draw a circle on the ground, or stir brew in a cauldron. Any straight stick will do as long as you are comfortable with it.

Besom- This is a magick broom used to sweep the area before ritual. The sweeping is more than physical - the besom doesn't even have to touch the ground. It is used to sweep out any astral build up and/or negative energy and purifies the area. Because of its cleansing properties it is a feminine tool and is represented by the element of Water.

Bell- This is a feminine symbol used to call up the Goddess during ritual. It is also rung to ward off evil spells and spirits or to evoke good energies.

For consecration of your ritual tools (making the tools sacred for magickal use), use this website as an idea for what to do: http://fullmoon-magic.com/consecration.html

Food for thought: Why do you think it is important to consecrate your tools before use?

The Altar

Depending on the altar's size, shape, and what you're going to use it for decides on how you should set it up. If it is a permanent altar, you should always have a symbol of the Goddess and God at the center when it is not being used. If your altar has an alternate use - such as a coffee table, you should always put everything away in a safe and sacred place for you. Nothing that is not being used for ritual, or that you do not find sacred, should ever be placed on the altar.

If working with a circular surface, it is better to set up your altar according to the four corners and their corresponding elements. Each tool, as well as the images or symbols to be used for the God and Goddess should be placed accordingly.

(click to enlarge)

If your altar is rectangular or square, the easiest method is by placing the Goddess to the left, the God to the right, and aligning the tools in a way where the symbolism matches.

(click to enlarge)

You may use an altar cloth if you so desire. However, always remember that the altar is what YOU make it. These are just examples and you can make small changes that best suit you.

As an example, I took a picture of my altar using the rectangular altar diagram.

(click to enlarge)

Symbols

Helpful Resource: http://www.freewebs.com/wiccanforesttemple/symbols.htm

These are a few symbols that Wiccans use, whether for their BOS, or for personal use in rituals and spells.

(click on image for larger view)

Maintaining Focus

This exercise will help you develop your focus and concentration.

First, choose an everyday object for your meditation. This can be a pencil, a glass, or anything else lying around your house. Once you have your object, find a comfortable position, keeping the object visible. Close your eyes, spending a few moments becoming aware of your breathing. After a bit, open your eyes and focus on the object. Observe your mind’s attempts to distract your attention. Whenever you notice your attention drifting, gently return your focus to the object. Continue doing this exercise for two or three minutes.

With practice, you will be able to increase the length of this meditation as your mental discipline improves. When you have completed this exercise, journal about the things you became distracted by. You do not have to tell what distracted you, but please keep track. You will notice patterns that you need to address.

This exercise is from 1001 Meditations - How to discover peace of mind by Mike George. This exercise is worth 25 points.

Invoking Elements and Elementals

There are several different ways of invoking the elements from the four cardinal points. This is a very simple, basic one that I use.

Hail to the East, the Sylphs, the Air
Positive forces I call you in
Hail to the South, the Salamanders, the Fire
Positive forces I call you in
Hail to the West, the Undines, the Water
Positive forces I call you in
Hail to the North, the Gnomes, the Earth
Positive forces I call you in

Release
To the North, the Gnomes, the Earth
Fare thee well, I send you home
To the West, the Undines, the Water
Fare thee well, I send you home
To the South, the Salamanders, the Fire
Fare thee well, I send you home
To the East, the Sylphs, the Air
Fare thee well, I send you home

In Prefect Love and Perfect Trust
Hail and Farewell

Helpful Tips for Invoking the Elements (and doing other Magickal Work)

• Say the quarter call, invocation, or circle casting slowly
• When working with quarters, remember you are dealing with a portal or passageway to other worlds of some kind.
• Visualize what is to be coming through or guarding any quarter while casting your circle, invoking deity, or aspecting deity.
• Feel, with your sixth sense (or other senses), what is happening around you
• If you are participating in a group and you have been given the job of a quarter, you are responsible for that quarter from the time you open it to the time you close it.
• If you are working alone, you’ve got your hands full.
• All energies/quarters must be closed/dismissed precisely in the manner they were called:
  • Summoned: dismissed and thank
  • Stirred: farewell in peace and safety and thank
  • Called: hail and farewell and thank
• All workings with both Divine energies and those of other planes should be done in perfect love and perfect trust.
• All workings should have a goal.
• Our purest intentions are those in which we succeed the best,
• A working Witch does not mind summoning, stirring, or calling power, but is not driven by the guest of power for itself.
• A working Witch carries no delusions, either of self, intentions, or others.
• A working Witch does not seek to control unlimited minions, either human or astral.

Elementals

Elementals are nature spirits that are called upon to aid in magick.

Gnomes - Earth, North. Givers of material gain and stability. The rulers of the forest. Seen as "little people", like brownies or pygmies, or green light. Protectors of outdoor circles and groves.

Sylphs - Air, East. Givers of wishes, knowledge, and dreams. The rulers of weather. Envisioned as "faeries" or angels, or white light. Protectors of magickal applications. Delicate beings with beautiful wings.

Salamanders - Fire, South. Givers of passion and creativity. The rulers of fields and fire or blue flame. Envisioned as dragons or lizards or red-orange lights. Protectors of hearth, home, and business.

Undines - Water, West. Givers of love and friendship. Envisioned as mer-people, sirens, or pink or pale blue lights. Rulers of all water. Protectors of the gates of death and karma.

When using elementals, the pentacle employs control over them. The pentagram (usually with one point up) is an interlocking five pointed star. Each point of the pentagram stands for an element. Earth is located at the lower left hand corner; Fire is the lower right hand corner, Water, the upper right hand corner, and Air on the Upper left hand corner, with the uppermost point representing the Divine. The circle signifies the melding of all the elements through the work of humankind and indicates the universal mystery of oneness.

An upside-down pentacle represents chaos and is rarely used.

Elements

An important factor when working your desires is the use of the four major elements. These are the basic components that make up life itself. Each one has their own individual energies, vibrations, and direction.

Magick is in the mind and these elements are used to make the will, the desire, and a concrete manifestation in the world. When properly understood and aligned with all the other tools, they will aid in providing a tremendous force to your desires.

Fire: represents passion, enthusiasm, desire and courage, force, lust, fertility and virility, initiative and rejuvenation. It represents both light and heat. The light of intelligence and the fire of courage to follow it. A low fire person is usually cold, slow to act, without enthusiasm for life or themselves. A high fire person is bold, dramatic and passionate in all areas in their self; however, this person must be careful as fire can destroy everything in its path. Fire magick can bring on the new, courage and passion, and destroy the old.

Feeling: dry heat

Season: Summer

Direction: South / Energy

Symbol: athame/sword, candle and burner

Colors: reds, oranges, golds

Moon phase: 2nd quarter

Time of day: High noon

A type of fire magick is Bonfire Magick, which usually involves burning something such as an herb or flower, or a piece of paper of petition of which you have written your desire. It is used for banishing, ridding, or destroying negative influences in your life.

Another is Candle Magick, a simple, easy, and useful method in bringing about your desires. A color for the candle is chosen and can also include the correct scent in relation to your desire and lit sometimes for up to seven days. This form of fire magick is usually for any type of desire.

Another is Sun Magick. Using the sun in our wishes is a beautiful way in which to enhance new beginnings in love, health, work and home, awaken subtle powers and aid in attraction desires. It is also a good way to attune to the God.

Air: represents mental activity, thoughts, reason and intellect, memory, knowledge, persuasion, birth and friendship, freedom, clarification and expression. A low air person seems without any direction and unable to define nor visualize any future and cannot reason out the alternatives and objectives. A high air person is at ease in complex situations and can sit and think things through, and can carry through with decisions.

Feeling: moist heat

Season: Spring

Direction: East / Mental

Symbol: wand or the smoke of incense

Colors: white, light blues and yellows

Moon phase: 1st quarter

Time of day: dawn

Different types of air magick include visualizations. An important tool in any magick work, it makes the events happen. For this type, it is important that all the other factors such as color, time, moon phase, et cetera, are all in balance, and to have all the other tools working, such as incense and candle burning, or even the right tea or wine to drink in the background. This is because you need to "fix" or ground" the images or ideas you are using in your visualizations.

As our thoughts are extremely powerful, as are our words. Words can put together in such a way as to form spells, or used in channeling your power. Words give rise to our desires and released upon the winds for attainment. Created and repeated with intensity and concentration is a powerful magick in itself. You do not have to be an accomplished linguist to accomplish this; just a simple sentence will do. It creates an atmosphere of concentrated awareness and strength. It can be used in moments of stress or fear, and will create the magick itself. It does not have to be said aloud; say them to yourself if need or want be.

Another air magick is mirror magick. It can help in overcoming inner problems and also help with difficult personal decisions. It uses both the word and visualization forms in its use and can also aid in being able to visualize a future event. This is sometimes used as a scrying tool in which you are able to "see" possible future events and outcomes.

Water: the symbol of emotions. Water imbibes all life forms and in us we flow with the tide of our feelings. It involves intuition, insight, conception and pregnancy, fertility, the womb, health, beauty, and divination. A low water person outwardly would appear as a cold and calculating individual, one who is indifferent and unresponsive. On the other hand, a high water person may seem as though at the slightest touch the well is opened and can be over-emotional and over-dramatic in all areas of life. A good balance of water here is needed to keep the flow running smoothly.

Feeling: moist cold

Season: Autumn

Direction: West / Emotion

Symbol: cup/chalice, broom, or cauldron

Colors: blue, light grays, sea greens, and white

Moon phase: Full

Time of day: dusk

Some water magick can involve the beach and its sand, shells, animals, and seawater. This is especially good for love spells and also when you need to "get a grip" or clarify your own emotions. The use of shells in the practice is widely used. These can hold appropriate herbs or be used as a symbol of water magick.

One old tradition is using that of well water. A lot of gems and stones are exposed to this for a period of time and used at night during a full moon or waxing phase for water magick. Be careful, though, to know your stones as some do not react well in water for long periods of time. This type of water magick can give you insights to how others think of you, what others are doing and how well they are, and to find the truth within yourself.

Water spells can involve the use of scrying bowls. This is a bowl of clear or colored water in which you are able to "see" the future and future events or outcomes or get a clear direction on decisions. This is widely used in certain meditations and visualizations.

Earth: Finally we come to the element of Earth, the source and provider of all needs. It represents sensations, decay, patience, balance, stability, strength, health, warmth and comfort, animals and animal instincts, farming and physical labor.

Feeling: Dry cold

Season: Winter

Direction: North / Balance

Symbol: pentacle, grains, or a stone

Colors: browns, black, purples, and dark greens

Moon phase: 4th quarter

Time of day: Midnight

A high earth person seems a practical sort and quiet "down to earth; a hard worker, stable and good provider. However, they can be a little too stubborn sometimes. A low earth person can seem confused, insecure and alone, unable to feel wanted and their work may be affected.

Earth magick can involve the use of herbs and plants. Using the correct herb to help attain your desire along with the other tools can be very effective. Burying things and making some offerings to the earth such as planting trees is also a form of earth magick. Using your gems or crystals and burying them in the earth under the appropriate tree while making your wish is also effective.

Another type which is considered earth magick is any type of routine. Anything you do on a regular basis can be used as a magickal vehicle. While performing something you do at the same time everyday (like brush your teeth or shower), prepare yourself and use this period for clarity on a subject, figure the best course of action in a situation, or to find just where you are in the course of your life.

Journey Meditation

This journey meditation requires you to visualize yourself in a peaceful place. This can be a place you have been, want to go, or a place you make up. The purpose of this exercise is to "escape" from your daily life and all your stress for a short period.

To get started, find a comfortable position. If you plan to picture yourself on a beach (or something similar), you may wish to sit against a comfortable surface or lie down. Once you are comfortable, take a few deep breaths. Concentrate on your breathing. Each breath is becoming deeper and deeper. Your body is becoming light and you feel carefree.

Now picture your peaceful place. Visualize every detail you can. Is it bright and colorful or muted and tranquil? What do you see? Try to use your other senses and pay attention to everything you experience.

If your mind starts to drift, just concentrate on surroundings (your peaceful place) and promise to deal with everything after you have finished meditating. After about five to fifteen minutes, take a few cleansing breathes and let go of the visualization. When you feel focused on your physical surroundings, take a few minutes to journal anything you felt and experienced. Describe your visualization in as many details as possible.

Sacred Space and Circle Casting

The Universe is sacred space. In essence, all life and all places are sacred

Sacred space is an area, whether tangible or intangible, where people meet in perfect love and perfect trust. Such a space would be the environment of an open circle or a study group where there is balance and harmony.

Sacred space is where you live, where the Witch is sacred.

To create sacred space, you need a quite and comfortable place to work in. First, grab your besom (ritual broom) and use it to clean out any dust and astral build-up in the area. If you do not have a ritual broom, that is okay. Just make sure that the area you are working in is clean and tidy. If you wish to disperse any negative energy, you can do so by ringing a bell, chimes, or banging pots and pans together. Yelling can also help.

To cast a circle you simply envision it around you. The circle is a sphere constructed of personal power in which rituals are usually enacted. The term refers to the circle that marks the sphere's penetration of the ground, for it extends both above and below it. It is created through visualization and magick. You first lay out markers at the four cardinal points in your work area; N, S, E and W. These can be symbols, candles, or stones. Next, beginning at the East and working your way clockwise, you direct energy in an elliptical motion to surround yourself and the area. You can use a wand or athame to direct the energy by holding it out above or in front of you, or by simply drawing it in the ground if you are casting the circle outside.

To release the circle you do so backward--starting at the N and working your way counterclockwise; envisioning the energy being sucked back into the tool. You can use the simple phrase of "The circle is open but unbroken" or any chant to help with this

Here are some qualities that should be expected in the Witch before they enter the magickal circle:

• Reliability
  
• Responsibility
  
• Cheerfulness
  
• Honesty
  
• Trustworthiness
  
• Loyalty
  
• Humanitarianism
  
• Consideration
  
• Respect for authority
  
• Can keep a secret
  
• Resourcefulness
  
• Devotion to divinity

Now we know that no one is perfect and therefore could have many of these qualities missing. However, we should keep in mind to do the best we can and be the best we can be.

There are several methods used to cast and close a circle. This is just the method that I use.

Whenever you need to leave a circle, whether its to use the bathroom or to take an important phone call from a loved one overseas, use your athame, wand, or hand if none are available and "cut" a doorway. To cut a doorway you simply do so as if drawing it in the air. You may also visualize a door in the circle opening, walk through it, and visualize it closing behind you. What ever method works best for you is fine.

Food for thought: What is the main purpose of a protective circle and a magick circle and why should you do your work in sacred space?

Visualization Excercises

Shielding
Shielding is very important for magickal works AND in your everyday life. You should shield yourself from any negative energy first thing in the morning and reinforce this when you go into stressful situations. You will notice that when you are around certain places and people, you will feel as if you lost all of your energy suddenly. Shielding will help prevent this.

One that I use is envisioning myself closing curtains around my body.

Start off by sitting in a comfortable position. Close your eyes and envision curtains opened and flowing around you, a lot like they have in hospital rooms between beds. If this is a bit hard to imagine, try and picture it as sitting in a curtained canopy bed. You slowly take the curtains and drag them around the curtain rod so that they are closed snugly around you, blocking out any negative energy. Think of the curtains as a mesh mosquito net. The negative energy being the mosquitos. Take as long as you need to fully close your "curtains".

If you start feeling sluggish during the day, close your eyes and re-close the curtains if you need to.

There are many different shielding techniques. Choose what works best for you. I recommend trying each of them and others that you may find. A good article that I have found: http://www.psipog.net/art-common-shields.html

Protective Light
This technique uses a ball of white light for protection.

First, find a comfortable position. Close your eyes and visualize a ball of white light above your head. Feel the love and protection radiating from this light. Mentally stretch this ball of light to encompass your entire body. As you surround yourself with this protective, loving light, feel the energy from the body of light filling your body.

Continue stretching the ball of light until your entire body is surrounded. Concentrate on the feeling of the energy within yourself and the energy of the light. Stretch the ball of light so you have a bubble of light around yourself (about 3-6 feet).

If you start feeling low or drained throughout the day, close your eyes and reinforce if you need to.

Meditation Excercise

Start by finding a comfortable position. Keep your back straight (not rigid).

Pay attention to your breathing for a minute, keeping it steady and even. Now, notice any tension in your body. You are going to release all of this tension, starting with your head. Feel the tension moving down and out of your head. Once your head feels light, move to your neck. Make sure you push the tension down, so parts that have already been addressed stay light.

Concentrate on removing all tension from your neck and shoulders. Your muscles will feel soft. Work on your arms next, pushing the tension out of your fingertips. You can do both arms at the same time, or one at a time.

Now, work on your chest and stomach. All the tension is draining towards your legs. Your head, neck, shoulders, arms, chest, and stomach are very light and soft. Keep working your way down your body until the only remaining tension is in your feet. Now, you are going to picture the tension moving out of the soles of your feet into the ground/floor. If you are laying down, the tension is being released through your heels into the ground/bed/floor.

Enjoy the light feelings your body is experiencing. Pay attention to how your breathing is changing and how you feel. After a few minutes, slowly start to get up.

Meditation and Visualization

Meditation is an important and useful tool to use when working with magick. It helps keeps us focused and relaxed and can help us and inspire us. To find out more on the history and the benefits of meditation go to: http://iml.jou.ufl.edu/projects/Spring05/Luft/index.htm

According to Webster.com, Visualization is the formation of mental visual images. Visualization is something we all use. Every time we daydream or mentally “picture” something, we are using visualization. Whenever we are seeing something that is not directly in front of us, we are visualizing it. Even though we all visualize, some people have trouble focusing their thoughts on certain visualization.

Visualization can be a very useful tool, in our day-to-day lives and in our magickal workings. We can use these mental images to direct energy in spells, healing, and in many more ways. You can use visualization before an important meeting, before a job interview, before meeting with a real estate agent, or anything else you feel is important. The more detailed and focused you are during your visualization sessions, the stronger, more effective your results will be. Before important or stressful occasions, I recommend you use visualization several times to increase your desired effect.

Food for thought: What benefits do you hope to receive from practicing meditation and visualization on a regular basis?

Ethics and Morals

Helpful Resource: www.waningmoon.com/ethics/index.shtml

Food for thought: What is the purpose of the Rede and all these resources? How can you apply it to every day life? How do you interpret the Law of Return (rule of three)? Do you believe it affects the three planes of existence (mental, physical, spiritual)? What do you believe happens to use when we die? Do you believe in Heaven and Hell, why or why not? Are our actions held accountable? Do you believe it is necessary to ask permission to do spells to another? (Consider binding and healing spells)

Principles of Belief

These Principles of Belief were set down in 1974 by The Council of American Witches. Witches of all traditions had gathered to come to decisions on these principles, which most Witches and Wiccans follow.

We practice rites to attune ourselves with the natural rhythm of life forces marked by the phases of the moon and the seasonal quarters and cross quarters.
We recognize that our intelligence gives us a unique responsibility towards our environment. We seek to live in harmony with Nature, in ecological balance, offering fulfillment to life and consciousness within an evolutionary concept.
We acknowledge a depth of power, far greater than is apparent to the average person. Because it is far greater than ordinary, it is sometimes called "supernatural" but we see it as lying within that which is naturally potential to all.
We conceive of the Creative Power in the Universe as manifesting through polarity-as masculine and feminine-and that this same creative Power lives in all people and functions, through the interaction of the masculine and feminine. We value neither above the other, knowing each to be supportive of the other. We value sexuality as pleasure, as the symbol and embodiment of Life and as one of the sources of energies, used in Magickal practice and religious worship.
We recognize both outer worlds and inner, or psychological worlds sometimes known as the Spiritual World, the Collective Unconscious, the Inner Planes, etc. and we see in the interaction of these two dimensions, the basis for paranormal phenomena and magickal exercises. We neglect neither dimension for the other, seeing both as necessary for our fulfillment.
We do not recognize any authoritarian hierarchy, but do honor those who teach, respect those who share their greater knowledge and wisdom, and acknowledge those who have courageously given of them selves, in leadership.
We see religion, magick, and wisdom-in-living as being united in the way one views the world and lives within it-a-world view and philosophy of life, which we identify as Witchcraft or the Wiccan Way.
Calling oneself "Witch" does not make a Witch-but neither does heredity itself, or the collecting of titles, degrees and initiations. A Witch seeks to control the forces within him/herself, if that makes life possible in order to live wisely and well, without harm to others and in Harmony with Nature.
We acknowledge that is the affirmation and fulfillment of life, in a continuation of evolution and development of consciousness, that gives meaning to the Universe we know, and to our personal role, within it.
Our only animosity towards Christianity, or toward any other religion or philosophy-of-life, is to the extent that its institutions have claimed to be "the one true right and only way" and have sought to deny freedom to others and to suppress other ways of religious practices and belief.
As American Witches, we are not threatened by debates on the history of the Craft, the origins of various terms, the legitimacy of various aspects of different traditions. We are concerned with our present, and our future.
We do not accept the concept of "absolute evil," nor do we worship any entity known as "Satan" or "the Devil" as defined by Christian Tradition. We do not seek power through suffering of others, nor do we accept the concept that personal benefits can only be derived by denial to another.
We work within Nature, for that which is contributory to our health and well-being.