#paganism

New Book Release: Old Ways Witchery

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My latest book, “Old Ways Witchery: Nature, Magic and Service” contains the twelve monthly lessons that I have shared with private students for over a decade. Each lesson focuses on specific plants, stones and deity figures from the Irish, Scottish and Welsh pantheons. Also in each lesson you will find information on European folk magic, divination, spellcasting, druid philosophy and many other topics. The entire book contains wisdom I have gained from my own studies and meditations, and from teachers that I have had the privilege of meeting and studying with personally. Each lesson takes one month to complete, and includes homework and practical application. This book contains my own practice, and is presented exactly the way I practice it. I call it a “tradition”, as it is something I have passed on to my own students, but anyone can incorporate these lessons into their own practice. Each lesson is devoted to one month, beginning with March. My private lessons usually begin at this time, but those who have the book can begin at any time. It did take me quite awhile to format all of my lessons into one book. Time was scarce, as I still work a full-time job in the city and commute every day to the mountains where I live. Weekends are my writing times, since during the week I’m much too exhausted.

My definition of Old Ways includes beliefs and practices that pre-date modern magical systems such as Wicca. I present a blend of Witchcraft, Celtic Paganism, Druid Philosophy, Folk Magic, Occult Wisdom and other esoteric knowledge that has been passed down through the centuries. This may differ from other Old Ways traditions that have their own practices and rituals. Although the Old Ways themselves are not rooted in any one culture, they can have cultural elements. For instance, there are Italian Old Ways, Greek Old Ways and Celtic Old Ways. All of these pre-date modern magical practices. My practice happens to focus on the Celtic pantheon, with it’s associated imagery and lore.

Old Ways Witchery: Nature, Magic and Service is presented as a structured, monthly practice in twelve lessons. Get your copy now at this link.

The Ancient Art of Cord Magic

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Cord Magic, or what some refer to as a “Witch’s Ladder”, is a very old practice of witchcraft that consists of knotted cords. As each knot is tied into the cord, an incantation is spoken to seal the spell into the cord. Many witches will tie feathers, bones, charms or magical trinkets into the knots. At the tying of the last knot, all the energy is directed into the cord and it’s knots. The power has been raised and is now stored in these knots in the cord. Different traditions of witchcraft use varying numbers of knots, and for various kinds of magic. Cords are usually made of string, yarn, twine, and sometimes animal or human hair. The oldest documented witch’s ladder was recorded in the year 1878, when one was found in a hidden room of an old house in Shropshire, England. It had been knotted with black hen feathers and was believed to have been used with malevolent intentions. Further investigations found that this was a common practice among local witches. As a reminder, witchcraft is neutral, being neither good nor evil, and it is the intention of the witch that is key. In this tradition of Old Ways Witchery, we use the witch’s ladder for healing, protection and other beneficial purposes. Evidence of sacred knotted cords exists from the Stone Age. See below the diagram of a witch’s ladder consisting of nine knots, along with an incantation for each knot. This can be applied to any spell you wish to cast. Choose the color according to your goal-example: red for relationships, green for prosperity, black for protection, white for healing. Examine your motives and intentions, as the final knot will set the spell in motion. Place the completed cord where it will not be disturbed.

You will notice in the preceding diagram that the knots are not tied in a straight line down the cord. The first knot is tied at one end, the second knot at the other, the third knot in the center, and then alternately according to the diagram below until the last knot is tied. In many witch shops you may see witch’s ladders that have crystals, plants and other items knotted within the cord. These are all quite beautiful and effective, however, in our tradition of Old Ways Witchery, simple knots with incantations are all that is necessary.

Snowflake Obsidian

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An aptly named stone to wear during the winter months, Snowflake Obsidian brings balance to the body, mind and spirit. It helps to keep us centered and focused in chaotic situations. Obsidian is often used for healing and releasing energy blockages, and works quickly to move truths to the surface so they can be resolved. This stone is associated with detoxification or purification. Detoxification refers to the removal of toxic substances from both body and spirit. Alternative healing practitioners have used snowflake obsidian to purify the body by eliminating certain viral and bacterial infections. It is also being used to address complications related to blood circulation. It is believed that wearing jewelry with snowflake obsidian will help diminish muscle pains and cramps. It eases pain in the digestive system, and helps to reveal unhealthy patterns of behavior. Owners of snowflake obsidian have claimed that it lends a calming effect in the midst of turbulent circumstances. It helps one generate stability in times of uncertainty. Tension caused by stress is curbed by positioning the Snowflake Obsidian stone between the thumb and index finger. It strikes a balance in one’s body and mind, thereby easing confusion and bringing focus. During the month of December, wear snowflake obsidian jewelry or carry the stone with you. When meditating, lie down and place the stone on your heart area. Place your hands over the stone and say, “I charge this stone to bring healing and restoration”. Close your eyes, bring yourself into a meditative state, then allow the stone do it’s healing work. Take note of any personal issues that come to your mind as you meditate with the stone. Use in spells for balance, healing, and the revealing of truth.

Magic of the In-Between

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There are certain times of the day and night, certain times of the year, certain celestial events, and certain places that carry their own special magic. Those who are sensitive can feel the energies that exist in these liminal spaces, and work their magic accordingly. When we find ourselves in these “in-between” places, we are neither in one place or the other, and we stand on a threshold in a place of separateness. Within these spaces, anything is possible for the skilled magical practitioner.

Dusk and Dawn: During these times, it is neither day nor night, and the energy feels almost electric. Dusk is a perfect time for magic that removes something harmful, while Dawn is good for magic that involves healing and illumination.

Midnight: As night shifts into early morning, it is a time to release whatever does not serve your highest good.

Noon: At midday when the Sun is at it’s peak, it is a great time for deity worship, and for setting in motion those spells that involve dreams, goals and desires.

Witching Hours: Between 3am-5am when most people are sleeping, interference in the astral realms are at their lowest ebb. This means your spells and magical workings can flow unhindered and uninterrupted by the usual chaotic energies that exist during busy daytime hours.

Full Moon: While a true Full Moon only lasts for an instant, the moon will appear full for a period of two to three days before and after the actual Full Moon. Use this energy for spell workings that bring beneficial things into your life, such as healing and prosperity.

Dark of the Moon: This is an often overlooked period that occurs during the two to three days before a “New Moon”. The moon appears completely dark during this time, and the waxing crescent has not yet become visible. Magic during the Dark of the Moon is focused on introspective work, banishing and binding, and removing things that are harmful from your life.

New Moon: The actual New Moon occurs very quickly, but takes place when the Dark of the Moon has ended. This is a time for magic involving new projects and setting new ideas into motion.

Lunar Eclipse: This occurs during a Full Moon, when the moon passes directly behind the Earth into it’s shadow. It is a time of increased awareness and growth on an inner, spiritual level.

Solar Eclipse: This occurs during the New Moon, when the Moon passes between the Sun and the Earth. It presents a powerful potential for change on an outward, visible level.

Samhain: On this the most magical of holidays, it is believed that the veil that separates the worlds of the living and the dead is at it’s thinnest, and spirits of departed loved ones can walk among us and communicate with us.

Winter Solstice: The longest night of the year is a time to acknowledge our own darker aspects, while embracing the coming light.

Spring Equinox: On this day of equal daylight and darkness, we celebrate the newness of life and the re-awakening of the earth.

Beltane: Another in-between day when the doors to the faery realm have opened, and we celebrate sexuality, passion and desire.

Summer Solstice: The longest day of the year is a time for powerful magic, harvesting herbs and plants, and celebrating friendship and fun.

Autumn Equinox: Another day of equal light and darkness, and celebrating our personal harvests. After today, the nights begin to grow longer and we enter the dark half of the year.

Beach: When we stand on the beach by the water, we stand on the literal boundary of Land, Sea and Sky.

Thresholds: Doorways, windows and gates are places that exist “in-between” and represent liminality, places that exist “neither here nor there”. They provide safety and protection, and there are spells that involve using a doorway or a window.

Edge of the Forest: There is a special kind of energy at the forest’s edge. As we walk into the woods, it is as though we enter another world. Suddenly we are surrounded by nature, trees and wildlife. The energy feels primal and ancient, and the spirits of the land are strongly present.

Crossroads: There are many spells that involve burying items or leaving offerings at a crossroads.

Natural Portals: The landscape often provides natural portals. Bushes, branches and trees can form a “doorways” or a passages that one can walk through. We have several such portals on our property that are frequently used by the local wildlife.

Hearth: This liminal place exists within the home. It is a place of warmth, family and magic. A cauldron in the hearth can be used for spell workings that bring abundance and protection for the family.

Witches’ Circle: The witches’ circle is a ‘world between worlds’, keeping out what is harmful and keeping in what is needed for successful magical workings.

Graveyards: Another liminal place where we can honor the departed dead, particularly during Samhain and the Day of the Dead.

Each of these ‘in-between’ places have their own magical energy that we can tap into. Can you think of any others?

Potions and Powders

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Potions

A potion is any mixture of natural substances that are used for a magical purpose. They can be water based, alcohol based, oil based or dry powder based. Potions are not always necessarily something you consume. Potions that you drink are also known as tinctures or brews. Be sure to mark potions that are for drinking. Liquid potions that are not to be consumed are used topically, preserved with sea salt, and can be used to anoint magical tools. Dry potions containing non-toxic materials can be burned as incense, or sprinkled on people, around the perimeter of the home, around the flame or rubbed on a candle, or dusted over the magical working area. Items placed in potions include the following:

  • Plant Matter: Leaves, Stems, Flowers, Roots, Resins and Bark.
  • Mineral Matter: Metals, Chemicals, Crystals.
  • Animal Matter: Hair, Nails, Bones, Teeth.

Ancestor Summoning Potion

    For burning or sprinkling, use equal parts of the following:

    • Dragon’s Blood Powder
    • Red Sandalwood Powder
    • Pumpkin Powder
    • Wormwood

      Mix together by hand, adding small pieces of frankincense and myrrh resin. This potion is best used at Samhain, or during the waning to dark moon phase. It’s purpose is to summon the presence of ancestors into the magic circle. Burn as an incense, or sprinkle on the altar, or around the perimeter of the circle.

      Powders

      Magical powders are made primarily to be sprinkled, dusted or placed in shoes or specific areas to bring a desired effect. Powders are ground to a fine dust using a mortar and pestle. They can be made from several items, including the following:

      • Dried herbs, flowers and plants
      • Brick dust
      • Graveyard soil
      • Iron or copper shavings
      • Tree resins
      • Powdered crystals and stones
      • Sand

      Attraction Powder

      Equal parts of the following:

      • Damiana Leaf
      • Cinnamon
      • Basil

      Ground all ingredients together into a powder. Sprinkle on a photo, in the corners of a room, or in shoes. Rub on spell candles, or place in a small container to carry with you. This particular recipe is non-toxic and can be burned together, or sprinkled around a candle flame.

      *Some potions and powders include metals, chemicals or crystals, and are not to be burned or sprinkled on people, as they can contain highly toxic and dangerous materials. When using plant material, use caution when including those that may be poisonous. Make sure that all potions and powders are labeled as toxic or non-toxic, and are tightly sealed when not in use.

      The Elemental Year

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      In magical terms, the year can be divided into four segments, each corresponding to a different element. As we examine these different times of the year, we can see how the energies present during seasonal shifts can be associated with the elements of Earth, Fire, Air and Water.

      EARTH: March/April/May

      It is during this time that the earth is beginning to awaken. Flowers are blooming, leaves are forming on the trees, and the creatures of the earth are arising from their slumber. Winter is but a memory, and the Earth is coming alive once again. In March, we celebrate the Spring Equinox with symbols of fertility and the newness of life. It is a time to start fresh and welcome new beginnings. Many magical traditions begin training new students at this time. In May, we celebrate Beltane, a joining together of energies to create something new, whether that be a creative project, a new relationship or the manifestation of a spell. The seeds have been planted, literally and figuratively, and now is the time to watch them grow. Beltane also brings with it the intensity and passion that carries over into the next few months.

      FIRE: June/July/August

      The Summer brings heat and warmth, and a powerful time of creative energy. The Summer Solstice is a recognition of that powerful force, but also a reminder that the days will soon grow shorter. Although Summer has just begun, the growing cornfields remind us it will soon pass. We spend these days enjoying the company of friends and loved ones, with lively cookouts and trips to the beach. It is a time to revel in the sunlight and enjoy all that life has to offer. Magically it is a time of fruition, of watching the plans we set in motion months ago finally coming to pass. Embrace the fire within, embrace your desires and passions, and visualize them manifesting in your life. On August 1st, we celebrate Lughnasadh, the First Harvest. Summer is nearly over, the corn has grown tall in the fields. Now is the time to begin preparing, for darker days are soon to come. Examine what has been harvested in your own life, and gather those things that will help you remain strong as the colder months arrive.

      AIR: September/October/November

      As Fall approaches, the winds begin to blow, reminding us again of the darkness ahead. In September, we celebrate the Autumn Equinox. The day and night are of equal length, but now the days will grow shorter. It is a time to give thanks for the abundance in our lives, for the food on our tables and the many good things that have come to us in the past year. As the mythical figure Mabon was rescued from darkness into light, we now transition from light into darkness. During these three months, many sense an increase in their intuitive and psychic abilities. As the wind blows, it seems to awaken the senses. Magic can be felt and sensed everywhere. This is the power of Air: enlightening, awakening, inspiring. In October, we celebrate Samhain as we remember our beloved dead. They draw near and whisper to us. As we enter the dark half of the year, we examine our own dark nature. We learn to embrace both the Dark and the Light. We recognize that both are necessary to us to be balanced and whole.

      WATER: December/January/February

      As the colder months arrive, they bring snow and sleet and freezing rain. Although the glistening white snow can be beautiful, this is still the darkest time of the year. The earth goes to sleep, and many of it’s creatures go into hibernation. The leaves have all fallen from the trees, leaving bare branches that sway in the winter rains. On the Winter Solstice, we acknowledge the darkness on the longest night of the year, but this brings with it the promise that light will soon return. The days will soon begin to grow longer. In February, we celebrate Imbolc in honor of the Celtic Goddess/Saint Brigid.

      We light candles to her as a symbolic gesture that gently awakens her from her slumber. She is a goddess of smithcraft, poetry and healing. Her creative force will soon coax the snowdrops out of the ground and into the sunlight. As each snowfall melts into the ground, it waters the seeds that will soon sprout in the coming Spring.

      The Three Realms

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      Unlike many witchcraft traditions that call the Four Directions (North, East, South, West) when casting the circle, in our practice of Old Ways Witchery, it is the Three Realms (Land, Sea and Sky) that are called forth. Each of the three realms are associated with an animal that lends it’s energy to that realm for the duration of the circle. Land is associated with the Stag, Sea is linked to the Salmon, and Sky is associated with the Owl. The realms of land, sea and sky, along with these animals, are frequently represented throughout Celtic lore. In this article, we will explore each of these and why they are important to our practice.

      Land and the Stag

      The realm of land is the realm of the material world. It is the realm of living and working. It is the realm of finances and food, of existing on the earthly plane. It is the realm of flowers and plants, of trees, mountains and forests. The land is represented by the stag. When we cast the circle, we stand facing the north and say, “We call upon the Spirit of the Great Stag who dwells in the forest, and we ask for the blessing of the Land”. The Great Stag is the guardian of the forest and all that dwell within it. Associated with the Celtic antlered god Cernunnos, he is pictured as a man with large antlers on his head as he roams among the trees. The antlers of the stag are compared to tree branches. When the moon is viewed between the antlers of a stag, it is a blending of active and receptive energies. Celtic lore tells us that the stag is a creature that walks between the worlds.

      Sea and the Salmon

      The realm of sea is the realm of emotion. It is the realm of adaptability and change. It can be calm one moment and rough the next. It can be boiling hot or freezing cold. It can both sustain life, or drown it. It is a powerful force, difficult to control. The sea is represented by the salmon. When we cast the circle, we stand facing the west and say, “We call upon the Salmon of Wisdom who dwells in the sacred waters, and we ask for the blessing of the Sea”. Salmon live in both freshwater and saltwater. They swim upstream, following a familiar scent that leads them back to the location of their birth, where they reproduce. For this reason, they are associated with persistence, strength and determination.In an ancient Welsh tale, the salmon assists Arthur in finding the lost child Mabon and returning him to his mother.

      Sky and the Owl

      The realm of sky is the realm of thought. It is the realm of intuition and psychic ability. It is the realm of creativity and wisdom. The sky is represented by the owl. The owl has long been associated with witches and witchcraft. Because it is a nocturnal animal with keen eyesight, magical lore tell us it has the ability to “see the unseen”. It can observe without being observed and it’s flight is completely silent. The owl is primarily a creature of the night, and can be called upon to reveal that which is hidden or kept secret. There are over 200 species of owls, and they can be found on every continent except Antarctica. A Gaelic name for owl is “Cailleach-oidhche”, meaning “crone of the night”. When we cast the circle, we stand facing the east and say, “We call upon the Spirit of the Owl who dwells in the hidden realms and sees the unseen, and we ask for the blessing of the Sky”.

      In our practice of Old Ways Witchery, the Stag, the Salmon and the Owl are called upon at the beginning and end of every ritual, to evoke and give thanks for the blessings of the Land, the Sea and the Sky. These are perfectly illustrated in the Celtic triskele symbol.

      Some may notice the absence of fire in these evocations, and there is a reason. We carry the fire within us. We bring our own passion, our own life force, our own inner flame to the ritual. There is an old Welsh word, NWYFRE, that means “Life Force Energy”, and this energy is represented by the Dragon. This ‘dragon energy’ exists within all of us.

      What Pagans Will Not Do

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      Pagans will not show up at your door unannounced, with pamphlets about paganism for you to read. Pagans do not proselytize. They will not coerce, intimidate or threaten you with eternal torment if you choose not to become pagan. However, if you try to force your own beliefs on a pagan, that conversation will likely not end well for you.

      True pagans will not reject you because of your race, sexual orientation, gender expression or gender identity. You are welcomed as part of the community. Paganism embraces all those of like mind. Some fringe groups exist who engage in discriminatory practices, but these are frowned upon by the wider pagan community. Bigotry, homophobia, transphobia and racism are not welcome in our midst. Those who are found to engage in such practices are exposed and rooted out.

      Pagans will not sit quietly by while corrupt leaders take away civil rights and environmental protections. Many pagans are also activists, speaking out against injustice and inequality. It is our duty to defend those whose rights are being stripped away, and to be a voice for the earth, for nature, and for endangered species. Many pagans actively engage in protest and resistance against dictators, unethical organizations and oligarchs, who seek to control and dominate others in order to benefit themselves.

      Pagans will not demand that you believe in the same things they do, because they support the freedom of choice. The choice to believe what you want, practice the religion you want, live your life the way you want. However, if your beliefs, your religion, or the way you live your life is actively causing harm to other people, then you will be treated accordingly.

      The Magic of Singing Bowls

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      While my magical and spiritual practice is primarily Celtic in nature, in my meditations I do like to incorporate practices from other cultures in my meditative exercises. Many years ago, meditation was what helped awaken my psychic and intuitive abilities, which ultimately led me to the realization that I am a witch. My earliest meditative practices included Buddhist chants, creative visualization and controlled-breathing exercises. I had used singing bowls from time to time, but only recently have I made it a regular practice. You do not have to a Buddhist or Tibetan monk to work with a singing bowl. Ignore the gatekeepers who say otherwise. It is problematic for Western people to pick and choose the elements of Eastern culture that may appeal to them, while often continuing to act from a place of prejudice and internalized racism toward those same cultures. However, if you truly appreciate the people and cultures that singing bowls come from, and have an understanding of how they work, then you can use them with a clear conscience.

      Singing bowls are examples of Idiophones. These are musical instruments that produce sounds through vibration, when they are struck, shaken, or scraped. The singing bowl is made of metal, or a combination of metals, and is most often used used in spiritual settings. When struck with a mallet, it produces sounds that aid in meditation. Singing bowls are often used in Sound Therapy to induce healing and treat various illnesses. The sounds of the bowl create energy waves that help to realign the aura and the Chakras. It is believed that the tones from the singing bowl cause the left and right sides of the brain to synchronize together, and bring the brain into a relaxed, Alpha state. Taking deep breaths while using the bowl and concentrating on the tone helps this process. There are some studies that suggest how using a singing bowl interacts with the water in our bodies. The singing bowl is linked to the elements of Air and Water. Air, because of the sound it produces reaching the ear, and Water, because of the bowl being a sort of container, not only of water but of energy that affects the water in our bodies.

      Singing bowls originated in Mesopotamia over 5,000 years ago, and made their way to the regions of Tibet, Nepal and India which all have singing bowls in their history and culture dating back some 2,000 years. Today, singing bowls are still produced in these areas of the world, and both the craftsmanship and the spiritual components are closely tied to culture and tradition. Originally made of pure copper, they are now made mostly of bronze (a combination of copper, tin and zinc) or a seven-metal medley of copper, tin, zinc, iron, lead, gold and silver—seven earth metals for the seven Chakras.

      To use a singing bowl, hold it gently in the open palm of your hand. Do not place your fingers around the sides of the bowl or it will affect the sounds created. Some bowls come with a small “pillow” to place the bowl on. Use the mallet to strike the bowl on the outside, and/or to gently trace the outer edge of the bowl, which will create a singing-like effect. It will take a little practice, but with a few tries it becomes easier. An important aspect of this practice is the mindset of the practitioner. While using the bowl, it is advisable to take several deep breaths and allow the sounds of the bowl to take you into a deeper meditative state.

      This is my own singing bowl, one of my favorite magical tools.

      The Witch as Activist

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      The witch has many roles in modern society. As healing facilitators, we work with herbs and plants, and many other alternative therapies to help bring healing to those who come to us. As educators, we show others the truths of witchcraft and paganism, and work to dispel stereotypes and falsehoods about who we are. As seers, we give people encouragement and insight into their lives with the use of tarot cards and other divinatory methods. There is another role of the witch that is equally important: the role of Activist. As witches, it is our duty to be an advocate for others. We have the responsibility to speak for those whose voices are being silenced. Witches are called to speak out against bigotry, racial injustice and inequality. We are called to speak out against gun violence and fascism. We are called to speak out against homophobia and discrimination. As a minority, the pagan community needs to be more understanding of the struggles that other minority groups face. Unfortunately, many witches shy away from activism. When gross injustices occur, such as we have seen on the news in recent months, many remain oddly silent. The illegitimate Supreme Court has outlawed abortion, taking away a woman’s right to have autonomy over her own body. They have already stated that they also want to reverse gay marriage, and criminalize contraception and gay relationships. America is careening towards a Christian Nationalist, authoritarian rule. Plans are in place that will result in environmental harm and endanger the safety of Americans. Extremist Christians want to force their religion on everyone and legislate their beliefs into law. We cannot afford to be silent or stick our heads in the sand. Activism is becoming more important with each passing day.

      We are not on this path only for ourselves, but also to be of service to others. While we’re casting spells and enchantments to meet our own needs, it is important that we are also doing magic to help make the world a better place. Some seem to think being a witch is all about wands and spells. The truth is that witchcraft will often take us out of our comfort zone. It is not always comfortable. Another unfortunate truth is that there are bigots and racists even in the pagan community. Some witches refuse to get political because they’re afraid they’ll lose business. They don’t want to offend any of their followers who might be bigots or racists, so they say nothing on these issues. After all, these followers might stop buying their books or coming to them for readings. For these unethical witches, money and popularity are more important than the people they serve.

      I once had another blog with over a thousand followers. I wrote about many subjects related to witchcraft and magic. The blog won two awards and was moderately popular. When I wrote some posts about social issues and speaking out, a few people got upset. “Why are you getting political?”, they asked. “I’m not following you anymore”. They loved reading about the spells, the herbs and crystals, but when I spoke out against government corruption, discrimination against the LGBT community and racial injustice, that was a problem. I was “getting political”. I lost some followers, but I didn’t care. I still don’t. There are far too many witches and pagans who are content to live in their little New Age bubbles. Candles and incense won’t make it all go away. Witches are peacemakers, yes, but maintaining peace sometimes means being a voice and speaking out. There are many people who are not interested in peace. A ‘rainbows and unicorns’ approach will not solve the problem. It’s going to take much more than just “let’s be kind to one another”. Being passive only results in more atrocities inflicted upon us. Now that America has re-elected the rapist and Nazi-sympathizer Donald Trump, activism and resistance has become more important than ever.

      Activism does not mean you have to stand on the corner with a megaphone. There are many things you can do, and there are different kinds of activism. Join environmental groups like Friends of the Earth or Greenpeace. Support equal rights for the LGBTQ community by getting involved with the Human Rights Campaign or the Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation. Work with racial equality groups like NAACP and Black Lives Matter. Make a donation to Planned Parenthood and be vocally supportive about a woman’s right to choose. Get involved with animal rights groups like People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals and the World Wildlife Fund. Use social media to raise awareness, and expose bigotry and discrimination wherever you see it.

      Something else to consider are the circles and groups that we are part of. When witches and pagans gather together in the circle, they are meant to be of one mind and one accord. They are meant to be in unity. If the group is not in unity, the purpose of the circle is for naught and any magic performed will be pointless. The circle has become desecrated. In other words, the sanctity of the circle has been violated. There can be no “sacred space” when you’re expected to share it with those who knowingly voted for your marriage to be dissolved, for your Social Security and Medicare to be gutted, for the rights of your loved ones to be taken away, and for the women in your family to be treated as property. There can be no unity in such a circle. We need to start being very selective of the public circles and ceremonies we participate in. As disgraceful as it is, there are some witches and pagans who actually voted for him. We cannot with clear conscience join hands with these folks and pretend that everything is fine, because it isn’t. There is no “putting aside of differences” when the wheels of your downfall have already been set in motion. We must draw a line in the sand. Don’t just be an armchair activist. Go to rallies, participate in protest marches, boycott companies who support Trump and his Republican thugs. For the record, I may as well say it now. If you voted for Donald Trump, then do not follow this blog. It is not for you. However, if you support a woman’s right to choose, equal rights for the LGBTQ community, and the protection of the environment, then you are welcome. It is time that we as witches embrace our role as activist. It is our sacred duty to be advocates for the oppressed. Trump has stated that he wants to terminate the constitution and rule as a dictator “from day one”. You cannot call yourself a witch and support such a person. We must resist authoritarian rule and a fascist society. It may not make us popular, but is that really the point?