The Circle Comes around again

Magickal growth is like a spiral. You travel along the path, and sometimes revisit old issues. But you see these old issues in a new light because of the growth you experienced in the past. You are higher up the ladder of that issue....solving it becomes closer and closer.....till it no longer is an issue.

 Learning, I suppose, can be like that. Each time you revisit a theory, you see something there that you did not see before and you knowledge of the thing expands.

The reason I am going down this discussion is because I feel the need to do it all over again. Witchcraft learning, from scratch. Now that I know what I know perhaps I will see something more.
To begin again, without the giddy headed elation, with out the giggly happiness feeling of finding a new paradigm. To approach witchcraft with a seriousness that was not there before, and re-absorb the knowledge and the principles which were looked at already.

One thing I found in my previous journey is that there was not enough lore, wise words, or daily inspiration for one walking the path. Perhaps I would find some this time or be able to write some using the base energies that swirl around every issue.
Travelling the world is hard enough, one needs a code to live by. Even though I am aware that searching for the code can lock ones mind into a lifestyle which does not leave a mind open to other possibilities, I am willing to take the journey of learning again.
Maybe I will make some more new rules.......so I begin again.

Quantum Infinity

Every so often all the information that runs in and out of my mind will combine into an idea, or and image. (In case you did not know, I paint as well)

Recently I had the opportunity to see images from the Hubble Telescope which extended far out beyond where our eyes can see from the Earth. As the camera took us deeper and deeper into space, the vastness of what we conceived as “Space” really boggled my mind. Watching each speck move past, and learning that these were not stars, not planets or solar systems, but galaxies! Each speck holding millions of stars and worlds itself!

See it here on Upworthy:  http://www.upworthy.com/its-ok-to-not-understand-these-pictures-our-brains-werent-built-to-handle-them-2

Now mix that in your head with a picture, comparing the sizes of the star ANTARES, with other stars and our sun, of which our sun is barely seen- Jupiter is invisible at that ratio….and well Earth would be near microscopic!

Now add a dash of Quantum theory, where we are observing quantum particles which are affected by the observer, with our consciousness having an effect on the physical reality of the quantum particle.

Then….like a slap to my insight….Earth being invisible in relation to Antares got me thinking……if we are observing quantum particles and our ability to effect change on them, who’s to say that we (Earth really) is not a quantum particle in relation to some other “Being”, whose consciousness has an effect on our existence. Gods you say? All well and good, but those “gods” can be quantum particles to another being larger than they….and so upward…or inward; depending on how you look at it? As above, so below comes to mind.

Horton hears a Who seemed to illustrate this beautifully. Very amazing if you think about the possibilities!

Spell Working after a spell

It has been a long time since I did a ritual. Ages actually. We would all like to think that all witches do rituals weekly or daily. Not me....I have to be moved to do one. For a while there I was toying with the idea of spell working without actually casting.....using only mental images to generate the energy.

Then I realized that would not help me at all. As an air person, I commit an awful lot of "thinking" and not enough "doing"Got loads of AIR energy, and not enough "EARTH" energies.
I hear the Witchy Teachers....Do the WORK...do the WORK. Its not enough to read about it, think about it, feel about it....you have to actually get off your butt and do it!

If anything balances the energies it is making sure that your daily do's have a balance of the elements. For me...that includes the doing. A million thoughts and ideas race through my head, but not many of them actually get off the ground. My Earthy side is very subdued.

This morning, I shrugged off the mental censors, and created a spell...then did the full monty....ritual bath and everything........I feel so refreshed and energized now.

Do the Work!  Do the Work!  Do the Work!  Do the Work!  Do the Work!

Cannot say that enough!

Explore the Dark Side

Knowing yourself also includes knowing your dark side. Understanding the darker parts of your personality does not mean that you become them and let them control you- but that you are aware of them, know their power and can tap into the power and make it useful.

By making it useful, I do not mean use it to get your own way by controlling or harming others. There are ways to harness the energy and use the same power for the benefit of the greater good.

What are your weak areas? What are your faults? Where do you show weakness of spirit in your personality? Conquer them and make them into strengths, and gain command.

Acceptance and acknowledgement is the first step. The will to make it into a positive is the second.

Blessed Be,......

That perfect mind

There is a perfect mindset that makes magick happen. Eventually; the more you practice, the more you come to recognize the state of your mind at what it can manifest for you. I have reached a point where I can recognize when I need a mental shift. I recognize when I need to do a circle, perform a rite, draw the cards....and only act when the need arises.

More importantly, I recognize that mental state where all I have to do is will the event/thing. And yes it happens.

Paying attention to your mind inside and outside the Circle is important. Note the feelings, note the shifts in perception. Note when you are to much into yourself and need to shift outward. Note when you need to change routines, mental routines, physical routines....

And when you are absolutely mentally still.....will the event, and laugh in gratitude that the Universe should make it so easy....that whatever you dream can be manifest.

Blessed Blessed BE

Crossroads Again

Crossroads

I remember this path. I have been here before. Intriguing this is that I have seen this before, different players, but the themes are the same.

Funny, look back at my blogging under Uranus Magick tags... at that time, I used Magick to force a change in direction in my life. At that time though, I knew where I wanted to go and who I wanted to be. I had a picture in my mind of what I wanted to experience and all the things I wanted to be rid of.

Okay....so I am rid of them. My life is different. Now that the changing period has settled down, I am back to the crossroads again. Only this time I am not sure of the direction I wish to go. I seem to be in a state of  mental NOWHERE land. I do not know where I want to take my life next. I have basically experienced everything I set my sights on. And one ironic thing I realized is that there are some-things that I thought where the foundation for my happiness that no longer seem relevant.

Like a traditional family unit, like a committed relationship, like a steady job......like learning more about Magick.... yes I said it. I am no longer interested in learning more.

I really have no idea where to go next. I am sort of hanging around like the Hangman......no idea of a direction.

My mind is observing, seeing different scenarios and lifestyles, and while I can fit into many of them; I have no doubt I will get bored and move on eventually.

In my heart though, I just want to be settled, and grounded, yet free.....if that makes any sense at all?

14th May 2023 Update: Learnt from a wise one that the HANGMAN phase is also part of growth. 

Its like the mind is in observation mode. 

The silent observer that looks for the next step. 

We think it feels wrong because we are constantly meant to be doing. But it is a real part of becoming that stronger wiser person with the life you love.

Blessed Be 

Mad-capped Witch - Witchcraft for anxiety

Hello Everyone......I am Celtic Crystal....just thought I'd reintroduce myself. Celtic Crystal is an alter ego which allows me to explore this side of myself without having to face the wrath of family member in this tiny island I live on. Such explorations, if made public, may result in uncomfortable circumstances for me and my family. We are a very superstitious island, and there is the possibility of being rejected, kicked out of schools and losing jobs...as it will be perceived that we practice "obeah" or are in league with Satan.

What is the attraction to me? Well the chance to be exposed to mind expanding concepts and other aspects of esoteric culture...if there is such a thing.

This path has taken my mind, uprooted me from the boring closet reality and given me tools to cope with quite a lot of today's issues. Because of witchcraft, Western mystery traditions and all the other etc's that I delve into; my ability to cope with life's challenges is like a balloon bobbing through the air observing all that goes on around me. 

I still get panic attacks, I still have mood swings, but now I have the tools to recognize them, and to stop them in their tracks!

A very very great coping mechanism this has been.

I must point out though....I get bored very easily, and as soon as I recognize the patterns in a topic, it quickly becomes stale...and I need to move on.

Still on the theme of Witchy-ness I shall begin to explore new types of " Witchy Living" in the realm of home decor and housing...... because my journey is soon to take me to a new abode...and I am going to have to create my space.

Call it research into visual imagery.....

Hope you will continue the journey with me.

I AM - Healer

My analysis of my self brought me to the realization that we are all complex individuals. There are several parts of me that can almost form separate personalities. They do not conflict with each other, but blend and compliment each other.  In different social circumstances I am forced to hide some from particular groups and have become so well skilled that only those who are intimate with me know all of them..... and their names.......and the blogs that keep each side....well sane and present in my complexed personality.

Today though I will deal with the Healer in me.

I come from a long line of Healers. My grandmother...the traditional nurse. Not sure if the hospital knew she was a great herbalist, of the type that had a wild looking backyard. To the outsider, it looked neglected. But too me, each plant she allowed in her space had a medicinal benefit. It was simple...any complaint you had led to a "bush" being picked. Or sometimes she would simply point out one and tell "you pick it, wash it, chew it".

My mother is a Healer.... of the Catholic Church variety. Whatever my feelings about the Path she follows I must admit that people who come to them seem to be eased in their troubles. I sometimes forget that individuals can have different "healing" needs, and are drawn to the type that gives them most comfort. If you believe in the miracles of creation, then healing can be found in anything, because Everything contains Love and Light....so to each his/her method.

For several years I carried a deep seated guilt about my relationships. I seem to attract, or be attracted to persons with a deep soul wound. I seem to move through my life from one relationship to another, with barely a break in between. I have been chastised by family members for this,to the point that they made me feel like a whore (although I could never resolve how having one relationship at a time for several years made me a whore) until a conversation last year with one made me realize something.

Each of them entered my life at a low, confusing point in theirs, and left with a clearer picture of what their purpose and goals were, and were well on their way to personal happiness. Talk about typical Libra personality.....leading people to balance.

I am no longer saddled with guilt about them. I did what I thought was necessary.
Now I can accept that I am a healer....of a different sort maybe.

Now though...its time to heal myself, and I look forward to the process. I can say I have a clear picture of what I want, and the direction I need to have for my happiness. I have tasted those things, however briefly and know where I want to be.
And that is one of the biggest steps to a journey....deciding where you want to go.

Blessed Be.

Work with Hestia

I have been working with Hestia lately as mentioned in a previous blog post. I usually have a goal in mind when I select a goddess, and in this case I wanted to marry both home-making skills and hospitality. I work in bar, and needed to sharpen my ability to keep customers happy. Hestia was the perfect choice, as invoking her would focus my mind on those two goals.

 So its been about four months now with her energies top of mind, and I always mention the results. I finally got a new home, which I am making comfortable for my family. At work I have become meticulous about making things look pleasant and comfortable for patrons of the bar. There is more to be done, but I was certainly driven to do it.

Hestia's energy though; is beholden to no man. 

Here is where I find a conflict. Beholden...in the sense of obligated to no man, yet, cares for all. This is an area where I am watching closely for any elements similar to those energies.

Shall I open the door?

Before me lies a door full of magick and wonder. Just looking on the outside thrills my soul, as if my dharma is to cross its threshold.
That door is so beautiful on the outside, that it pulls my attention and draws me nearer. I can feel when it calls, and as I stand before it, it seems to sense me- and it opens a tiny bit, inviting me in.
We seem to be in sync, me and that door.

My dilemma, being experienced in these sort of "Threshold Crossing Spells" the ones of the Change Your Life variety- is that I know the pain of change. And having gone through a major change I wish to rest emotionally for a while, and just sail through the stuff of life while my heart heals.

My dilemma, is to resist the urge to actually do a "Problem Solving Spell" to assist in making up my mind one way or the other. I have always pushed for and immediate decision, and have never just gone with the flow. I know the effort needed in pushing, but I know not the patience of waiting.

My wish, is to close the door, and hope that I could continue to admire the door from afar, see all the things around it and the door itself become more and more beautiful. See growth around it, see flowers bloom at its step. And then......when I am free to enter and ready to embrace the entirety behind that door, I will step in with a smile on my face and joy in my heart, knowing I am ready for that journey.
Blessed Be.

Can we adopt multiple personalities?

by Ashleigh Burns-Thompson

Do we adopt multiple personalities over the course of a life time?

I am asking this because I find that I no longer connect with the "personality" that wrote this blog.
I read the posts sometimes and feel separate and apart from this person.
Is this person me? Or....did I adopt this persona, as a coping mechanism?
Perhaps now that I no longer need the coping mechanism. I no longer identify with the persona?

Now don't get me wrong, I thoroughly enjoyed learning, exploring and creating magick. It added a spark to my life. Yet, I am no longer interested. Been there done that sort of thing. I even feel like clearing out the books, donating them or giving them away....and adopting a new passion to explore.

The guilt being that I invested so much time and money in them. Would I want to turn to them again? Would I wish to feel the weight of a Magick novel, reference book in my hand? Do I keep them for my daughter?

Is this a phase we all go through? Or is it one that I go through???

Are we really a spirit just putting on a body suit and moving through life?

Do we just have masks to switch around when needed?

Freedom of Spirit

As I trundle along on my broomstick ride I sometimes get into a conversation that seems to interest many many people. 

There is the argument that forming a governing body for this movement labelled Witchcraft, Wicca, New Age practices will give us more political clout among the wider public and allow us to demand rights and equal treatment and respect among our peers.

I can agree that it would. But at what price? It seems to me that the human condition will eventually lead this movement; if organized, into something that is exactly the opposite of what makes it so attractive to people now.

People who are discovering whatever you want to label this movement......feel a sense of spiritual freedom. No one is hanging a book over their heads and telling them" This is what you must believe!"
The journey is very personal, and- as I always maintained- moves along the individual's path in the direction suited for the individual's spiritual development.

Forming an organizing body, will send a dictate, however formal or informal to persons practicing. The dictate may directly or in directly streamline the practice into a one-size-fits all faith. This is exactly what we are trying to remove ourselves from in the other religions.

For the best exploration of this debate, and the advantages and disadvantages of formal training, eclectic training; refer to "The Study of Witchcraft" by Deborah Lipp.

Lets leave this practice as fluid as we discovered it. I believe it is best for our Spiritual Evolution.

Three Tim Burton Movies for 2012

Dark Shadows 2012 Trailer

Tim Burton expands his horizons with a twist on the Dark Shadows Series....its a comedy!!!!
Johnny Depp and Tim Burton always always get me excited.....and two of them in one movie.......(shudders with pleasure).

This year I shall be in blisssssss....as the creative ones are delivering a mighty fine three course meal.....check out the other two Tim Burton Movies below.!

Another Tim Burton mind stretcher:
Abraham Lincoln Vampire Hunter- Tim Burton Movie.

Just from the trailer I can see that this is Burton's attempt to expand his comfort zone, creatively speaking. I am sure I will enjoy this. I shall sit and eagerly look for signs of his trade mark elements.

Frankenweenie Trailer

Check out this cartoon that Disney (who really is branching out into new and creative projects) has backed. Tim Burton's Frankenweenie has remnants of his early style.

Compare it to one of his first attempts at animation :Tim Burton's Vincent


I think I will be in Heaven this year!