Excerpt taken from Scott Cunningham’s, Earth Power
One-Candle Divination:
Light a candle. Keep it lit for several hours, with no drafts nearby. Ask a yes or no question. Now sit quietly and watch the candle.
If the right side burns faster than the left, the answer is yes. If the reverse, the answer is no.
When burning a candle to determine future influences, the right signifies good fortune. However, if the left side burns more quickly than the right, prospects are ill.
Sunday, September 4, 2011
Tuesday, August 16, 2011
Beautiful Handcrafted Candles
Visit The Witches Room on Ebay to see our collection of handmade candles with essential oils by Montserrat.
Saturday, May 14, 2011
Unraveling the Knot
This day and age Pagans are still seen as that ‘curious lot’ of people who may indeed be practicing witchcraft. At times I will pretend to be a God-fearing woman to save myself from the quizzical faces after mentioning a personal belief in the Goddess. Could it be that even the word “Pagan” brings out some sort of stigma in common people? Of course! It is the same with any other socially charged words like Christian or Jew or Muslim.
The history of the word ‘pagan’ is wrought with references to non-believers, heathens, and--my personal favorite--hedonists. In the very beginning, it simply referred to people from the countryside and was used as a way to delineate where someone might have originated. In ancient Rome it developed into a derogatory term to group and shame the people who would not convert to another religion.
Despite its history and the obvious societal changes since those times, the word Pagan is still used in a judgmental way. Unfortunately, it is no longer referring to a non-cohesive group of non-conformists; today ‘Pagan’ can refer to a very cohesive group of polytheists. When a group of people use ‘Pagan’ as a put-down it can hurt even the most devout nature-worshippers.
In fact, I imagine that ignorant judgments can hurt any person who is openly devoted to their spiritual path. As a community we can learn to rise above the hurt and become examples worth revering rather than despising. For the more politically involved Pagans it is definitely time for us to draw a line in the sand. We have a right to believe and practice our spirituality. Standing up for those rights could mean demanding respect in the workplace, at home, and with our families. For the less activist Pagans, this could include volunteering for community service in areas we enjoy, or warmly inviting people to experience their first drum circle under the full moon. Perhaps we could start a reading club and introduce Pagan books or offer some tarot readings to those in need.
It’s not that we have to prove anything to anyone...ever. Only it would be wonderful if our love of nature could extend to the very people who harm us. This is not an easy task. I have been wrongly accused, suspended from school, dumped, derided and even bullied for being Pagan because of others’ misconceptions. It is hard for me, even now, to send love and light to the people that caused me so much pain for my belief; at the same time it frees me.
When I am able to realize that many actions are not intended harms, but are instead reactions to a person’s irrational fears, then I can lift my anger and release my pain. I feel lighter and I can recall that not a single one of us has the true answer. We are all on this carousel of life together and we are all wearing blindfolds.
Let us help each other see by untying one knot at a time.
With hope for the future Pagans,
Lady Jessicå, the Moonmaiden
The history of the word ‘pagan’ is wrought with references to non-believers, heathens, and--my personal favorite--hedonists. In the very beginning, it simply referred to people from the countryside and was used as a way to delineate where someone might have originated. In ancient Rome it developed into a derogatory term to group and shame the people who would not convert to another religion.
Despite its history and the obvious societal changes since those times, the word Pagan is still used in a judgmental way. Unfortunately, it is no longer referring to a non-cohesive group of non-conformists; today ‘Pagan’ can refer to a very cohesive group of polytheists. When a group of people use ‘Pagan’ as a put-down it can hurt even the most devout nature-worshippers.
In fact, I imagine that ignorant judgments can hurt any person who is openly devoted to their spiritual path. As a community we can learn to rise above the hurt and become examples worth revering rather than despising. For the more politically involved Pagans it is definitely time for us to draw a line in the sand. We have a right to believe and practice our spirituality. Standing up for those rights could mean demanding respect in the workplace, at home, and with our families. For the less activist Pagans, this could include volunteering for community service in areas we enjoy, or warmly inviting people to experience their first drum circle under the full moon. Perhaps we could start a reading club and introduce Pagan books or offer some tarot readings to those in need.
It’s not that we have to prove anything to anyone...ever. Only it would be wonderful if our love of nature could extend to the very people who harm us. This is not an easy task. I have been wrongly accused, suspended from school, dumped, derided and even bullied for being Pagan because of others’ misconceptions. It is hard for me, even now, to send love and light to the people that caused me so much pain for my belief; at the same time it frees me.
When I am able to realize that many actions are not intended harms, but are instead reactions to a person’s irrational fears, then I can lift my anger and release my pain. I feel lighter and I can recall that not a single one of us has the true answer. We are all on this carousel of life together and we are all wearing blindfolds.
Let us help each other see by untying one knot at a time.
With hope for the future Pagans,
Lady Jessicå, the Moonmaiden
Monday, April 25, 2011
Coming Out of the Broom Closet
As a younger generation witch, it is quite complicated to traverse the obstacles of the proper office etiquette. I have to be on professional terms with many people and I am extremely careful about ‘coming out’ at my job. However, once in a while I will meet a coworker who is open and inquisitive. It would be wonderful to reach out to this person, share insights with them, and ask about their own experiences with the Divine. Yet this harder than it might seem. It’s not that I try to hide my belief; I just like to make sure the person I am ‘coming out of the broom closet’ to won’t shut down from shock.
This year on May 2nd, 2011 it will be the very first International Pagan Coming Out Day (link to: http://pagancomingoutday.com). If you are in any situation where you feel comfortable or ready to celebrate your chosen path, then this could be a very good day to do so. If you would like a little magical support for your special day, I have some tips below.
First, I would recommend choosing family or friends or coworkers that are non-judgmental and supportive. It makes it a much easier process when you have people around that won’t have a strong reaction. After some practice it becomes much easier to tell people who aren’t as understanding. Start out with something simple like, “I love to celebrate Nature and its rhythms. In fact, I honor the divinity in all of Nature.”
Second, try to wear some hematite. It is an excellent stone for grounding in any situation. It will help give you the strength you need to speak your truth.
Lastly, try doing a small coming out ritual before telling anyone. Cast a circle and envision yourself living openly Pagan. Imagine people smiling and embracing you for who you are. If you wish, light a blue or white candle for tranquility. It’s always easier to say something special in a non-stressful environment.
I think it is important for Pagans everywhere to celebrate their faith. I hope this day will give us all the confidence to celebrate it openly.
With acceptance,
Lady Jessicå, the Moonmaiden
This year on May 2nd, 2011 it will be the very first International Pagan Coming Out Day (link to: http://pagancomingoutday.com). If you are in any situation where you feel comfortable or ready to celebrate your chosen path, then this could be a very good day to do so. If you would like a little magical support for your special day, I have some tips below.
First, I would recommend choosing family or friends or coworkers that are non-judgmental and supportive. It makes it a much easier process when you have people around that won’t have a strong reaction. After some practice it becomes much easier to tell people who aren’t as understanding. Start out with something simple like, “I love to celebrate Nature and its rhythms. In fact, I honor the divinity in all of Nature.”
Second, try to wear some hematite. It is an excellent stone for grounding in any situation. It will help give you the strength you need to speak your truth.
Lastly, try doing a small coming out ritual before telling anyone. Cast a circle and envision yourself living openly Pagan. Imagine people smiling and embracing you for who you are. If you wish, light a blue or white candle for tranquility. It’s always easier to say something special in a non-stressful environment.
I think it is important for Pagans everywhere to celebrate their faith. I hope this day will give us all the confidence to celebrate it openly.
With acceptance,
Lady Jessicå, the Moonmaiden
Friday, April 1, 2011
Know Thyself
I love fortune cookies! I always find a little piece of wisdom in them. I recently received one fortune that still sticks with me to this day. It’s one of those fortunes that is kept in a wallet for safekeeping and a smiling reminder. It is a saying written by Wayne Dyer, which states, “When you are squeezed whatever is inside will come out.”
It may seem an unoriginal statement to some. However, when I read that little note I couldn’t help but laugh. As an American, I couldn’t for the life of me figure out this saying. I kept thinking it was warning me against eating more Chinese fast food. That was not the case.
A little while later, I read Dr. Ben Kim’s newsletter (link to: http://drbenkim.com/how-to-find-peace.htm) and he explained the true meaning behind the saying. This fortune was reminding me how to figure out who I am at my very core. In fact, when I reflect on that message now I wish I would have understood it back then.
If you have forgotten or have yet to find yourself, well this is a very straightforward way of discovering who you are. When you find yourself in a stressful situation, take a moment, and observe how you react. When you are squeezed or pressured, whatever is inside you will come out.
What does this fortune cookie have to do with a magical practice? Well, it is my belief that the whole purpose of practicing Paganism is to learn about oneself. It is said that the translation of the words above the doors in Egyptian pyramids is, “Know Thyself”.
All of my magical training has taught me not only how to step back and observe myself, but that I can actually gain from observing myself in stressful situations. This doesn’t mean I find out that I am all sunshine and lollipops inside. I have been through very difficult and stressful situations that ‘squeezed’ me, and what came out was pretty toxic.
On the other hand, I have been squeezed by situations that brought out my very best qualities. Lately, the stress of work and my home life have put extreme pressure upon me. What came out of me was lethargy and procrastination. I wish I had something better inside, but the first step to any healing process is diagnosis. We must begin a journey by first identifying our current location, before we go anywhere else.
To know yourself, you must be willing to observe yourself. The easiest situations to observe are the least subtle, which typically include extreme emotional reactions. These situations have the power to show you the depth you have within. I vow to pay attention to the situations that squeeze me; I have hope that this awareness will help me learn more about who I truly am. So, who are you?
In self love,
Lady Jessicå, the Moonmaiden
It may seem an unoriginal statement to some. However, when I read that little note I couldn’t help but laugh. As an American, I couldn’t for the life of me figure out this saying. I kept thinking it was warning me against eating more Chinese fast food. That was not the case.
A little while later, I read Dr. Ben Kim’s newsletter (link to: http://drbenkim.com/how-to-find-peace.htm) and he explained the true meaning behind the saying. This fortune was reminding me how to figure out who I am at my very core. In fact, when I reflect on that message now I wish I would have understood it back then.
If you have forgotten or have yet to find yourself, well this is a very straightforward way of discovering who you are. When you find yourself in a stressful situation, take a moment, and observe how you react. When you are squeezed or pressured, whatever is inside you will come out.
What does this fortune cookie have to do with a magical practice? Well, it is my belief that the whole purpose of practicing Paganism is to learn about oneself. It is said that the translation of the words above the doors in Egyptian pyramids is, “Know Thyself”.
All of my magical training has taught me not only how to step back and observe myself, but that I can actually gain from observing myself in stressful situations. This doesn’t mean I find out that I am all sunshine and lollipops inside. I have been through very difficult and stressful situations that ‘squeezed’ me, and what came out was pretty toxic.
On the other hand, I have been squeezed by situations that brought out my very best qualities. Lately, the stress of work and my home life have put extreme pressure upon me. What came out of me was lethargy and procrastination. I wish I had something better inside, but the first step to any healing process is diagnosis. We must begin a journey by first identifying our current location, before we go anywhere else.
To know yourself, you must be willing to observe yourself. The easiest situations to observe are the least subtle, which typically include extreme emotional reactions. These situations have the power to show you the depth you have within. I vow to pay attention to the situations that squeeze me; I have hope that this awareness will help me learn more about who I truly am. So, who are you?
In self love,
Lady Jessicå, the Moonmaiden
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
From Child to Adult & Back Again
As we grow older I believe we have to confront another side of ourselves. This side I lovingly call, “The Adult”. It is one thing to embrace our child-like demeanor and play with the resources that we feel are somehow owed to us; it is quite another to rejoice in making decisions that ‘the Adult’ in us realizes as a wise utilization of our own resources. We are all a great wealth of knowledge. Once we learn that we have skills and passions, we become eager to provide the world-at-large with those skills. We no longer have to shirk responsibility to have a good time. Rather we can reward ourselves by being responsible. We can relish in the delight that what we are responsible for actually defines who we are as a person.
Our responsibilities give us boundaries like the sides of a puzzle piece, which then help us fit into the great puzzle we call life. Sure we may have some jagged edges or blind curves, but all puzzle pieces do. These may feel like hindrances to a person desiring a smooth fit. Yet, I have come to see these sides of myself as accentuations to my inner beauty rather than an undesirable part of myself. For every puzzle piece holds within it a clue to the larger picture. It may not seem like it all the time, but we do all fit together in some mysterious way. Once we accept this, we may be able to slowly piece together the greater picture that we all hold.
That being said, we all have moments where we vacillate between being the playful ‘Child’ and the consummate ‘Adult’. At times, the ‘Child’ within needs to be honored and it is easy to do this within the safety of sacred space. At other times, the ‘Adult’ needs to make major decisions, which are best considered in a self-reflective ritual. It is the ability to shift from one to the other that can help many Pagans become more comfortable living in the world-at-large. What better time of year to celebrate both the ‘Adult’ and ‘Child’ within each of us? Ostara marks the beginning of the spring season and new growth after a long winter. Perhaps cultivating our personal transitions from being the responsible ‘Adult’ to being a playful ‘Child’ can help us celebrate this spring.
With spring light,
Lady Jessicå, the Moonmaiden
Our responsibilities give us boundaries like the sides of a puzzle piece, which then help us fit into the great puzzle we call life. Sure we may have some jagged edges or blind curves, but all puzzle pieces do. These may feel like hindrances to a person desiring a smooth fit. Yet, I have come to see these sides of myself as accentuations to my inner beauty rather than an undesirable part of myself. For every puzzle piece holds within it a clue to the larger picture. It may not seem like it all the time, but we do all fit together in some mysterious way. Once we accept this, we may be able to slowly piece together the greater picture that we all hold.
That being said, we all have moments where we vacillate between being the playful ‘Child’ and the consummate ‘Adult’. At times, the ‘Child’ within needs to be honored and it is easy to do this within the safety of sacred space. At other times, the ‘Adult’ needs to make major decisions, which are best considered in a self-reflective ritual. It is the ability to shift from one to the other that can help many Pagans become more comfortable living in the world-at-large. What better time of year to celebrate both the ‘Adult’ and ‘Child’ within each of us? Ostara marks the beginning of the spring season and new growth after a long winter. Perhaps cultivating our personal transitions from being the responsible ‘Adult’ to being a playful ‘Child’ can help us celebrate this spring.
With spring light,
Lady Jessicå, the Moonmaiden
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