Jump for Joy! -- Updated

YAY! I finally got my Vinyl. It's brown so it'll look like it's brown leather. I can't wait to get started on an actual"Charmed" style Book of Shadows (utilizing tutorials from jamiebookofshadows). I was thinking on making a flat spine as opposed to the curved one I did on the velvet Book (as suggested in the tutorials). I find the paper towel roll kinda flimsy to work with, and harder to determine book width. I also think that instead of making a Triquitra, that I'll put a pentacle on it instead. But this could change. I think I need to get some more cardboard though for the cover before I can begin my project. Other changes to my book can include a different color for the pentacle/triquitra, I'm not going to paint my book green (i think it'll look better brown, as it looks in the picture above), and my pages won't be stained. I think for this book, the information will be re-written as a hand-down book for my children should they decide to follow in my footsteps. I'm really hoping this will be my 1 step forwards the Book of my dreams.

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**Update 1**

Ok, discovering I had cardboard for the cover, I have begun my book. Utilizing the tutorial from Jamie on YouTube, I have my paper glued to my spine. I'm just waiting for it to dry. However, thinking on it, I may regret doing a flat spine, but I'm going to continue anyways, just to see how it turns out. I'm really hoping it works. I'm even going to do the ridges on the spine. This time though I'm going to take my time. I generally rush through bookmaking because I want to see the outcome in one day. But, patience may make me appreciate my book more. I also really hope my pages fit lol. I made my cover a touch larger than the cover currently holding my information...BUT too big is better than too small IMO. I've also decided against the pentacle embellishment, but going for the Auryn. I've always loved this symbol and thought it would look great on my book. Let's hope it turns out well.

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**Update 2**

This book I think was cursed at the beginning. It's taking forever to make this book. My velvet book took only one day and two different types of glue...this one's taken me 3 days and 2 types of glue...BUT I've had to go to the dollar store TWICE to buy more. That's not to mention the fact that I made a good mistake, that will be noticable...while trying to trim some of my card at the hinge of my book, I sliced through my vinyl...ARGH!!!. Oh well, it's just a small hole, and it's not like I'm going to sell it or anything.

Another tough task I undertook to make this...the auryn symbol was perhaps the hardest thing I ever had to do in making books. The holes between the snakes were small and hard to cut, especially with my precision knife (because of the fabric in behind)...not sure how I did it. I also forgot a major thing having to do with the auryn...making it look like there are two snakes. I had to draw out the lines to make it look like there are two snakes, using a pen. I'm going to paint it, hopefully I can make it look right. As for yet another issue proving this task being cursed...my cover has warped...AFTER it dried. Grrr. BUT...I'm not worried. It's a work in progress, and practice makes perfect, no?

Unforutnatly for all of you, I didn't take pics as I was progressing, like I wanted to, BUT, you can see how it's done with the tutorial link I put up above. I'll show everyone the end result, when it's finished...it's actually looking pretty impresive (aside from the small hole I accidentally made lol).

What Would You Say??

What would you say,

If I were to say,

I wanted to be a Witch for a Day?

Would all of you

Before thinking it through

Respond with fear like many may do?

Would all of you see

That I want to be

Something that makes ME happy?

Would all of you know

or be willing to grow

Or would you all find something SHARP to throw

Would all of you see

That this path to me

Can finally allow me to be free?

What WOULD you say,

If I were to say,

I wanted to be a Witch for a Day?

Would you tell me no

Or tell me to go

Or that this is something that I do not know

Would you call me "silly"

Or be rather chilly

or plain and simply laugh at me?

Would you all know

That it hurts me to show

That this is a path I truly do know

Would you understand

That this wasn't planned

And that MY knowledge is ready to expand

YOU will now see

That this path is for me

and that I deserve to be happy

And for you to say no

or tell me to grow

will cause only you more grief and more woe

My path is for me

Not you, but me

to walk alone happily

That this path I walk

is not for you to mock

is also not yours for you to block.

What I would say

If I were to say

I wanted to be a Witch for a day

Is I am me

And I'm now happy

And would love for you to be happy for me!!

The "Craft" Bug Has Bitten Me Again!!!

I hate going to sleep at night...THAT'S when my mind decides it wants to go a million miles a minute with all kinds of ideas for crafting and projects and I can't get to sleep. So...today, I will attempt to make the crafts my mind has created. I will be creating another notebook, but this is more of a "see how it turns out" kind of thing. I will be using more of my "Velvet" with this book, and may either take pictures or video-document how I make it to place here for anyone who may want to make their own.

I am also going to see about doing some wire beading. For a while I had been trying to figure out how I could make shapes WITHOUT the use of a fancy-schmancy wire jig. I think I may have figured it out, but it's going to be a trial and error process. Again, I will post pictures here to show how it goes.

Fingers crossed I have some

success. Wish Me Luck!!!

~~**Ma'iingan**~~

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First Project

A VERY simple cover that just about ANYONE can do (so long as you know how to use scissors and a ruler). Simply measure out the length and width of your book, as well as it's thickness, add it all together, measure your material (adding about 0.5 cms on all sides for an overlap), cut and secure to book using split-pins.

Recommendation: I would use a thicker material like velvet, leather, vinyl or suede as it's heaver and looks nicer.

Now, my book uses pages from a spiral bound notebook, but you can do the exact same thing by using any sized paper. The only limitation you have is the thickness of your book. You can only make it as thick as your split-pins are long, and you have to remember enough room to split your split pins. Also depending on how thick your book is, you can trim your pins to accommodate your book if need be.

Incredibly easy. Once I get my vinyl (leather substitute) I will try again, and again I will post it here for those interested.

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This is not Pagan related, but IS crafting related. I've recently become interested in making jewellry...kind of goes along the same lines as my Pagan Prayer beads, but kind of escalated to earrings and other necklaces.

Here are a couple of examples:

 

Yes, they're all on clips, not standard pierced findings (only because I don't have pierced ears), but these can SO easily be put on pierced findings it's not even funny. I love making these. It's so fun. If I continue, I may have enough for an inventory, and I would LOVE to be able

to sell these and have my own site in which to sell these, however I'm rather uncomfortable dealing with money in such an anonymous way. I suppose once I can figure out how paypal works, and I get enough of these going, I would just go ahead and make my own site. For now, however, I'll probably try and sell them at markets. My good friend keeps trying to get me to go and sell stuff with her at her place. There's a market place that sells goods and she wants to sell stuff there. idk, maybe I'll go there, just for the hell of it.

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Yet more to add to what I've made directly above:

None of these are pierced!

Time for "Ma'iingan's Mashup"

I think it's time for another edition of "Ma'iingan's Mashup" (I just thought of a title for my mashup posts, YAY!! :D :D)

1) "Mortals whom seek knowledge..." regarding..blah blah blah
It's ok when people want to educate or provide information or links to particular topics of interest to those in the occult fields. I think it's awesome when people try to point other people in right directions or in whole new directions to begin with, say with a new discovery "Violet Flame". But what I don't find ok is when people use stupid words like "Mortal" or crap like that to describe those who dont' follow such paths.

Let's discuss the meaning of mortal and immortal, shall we to get an idea of why this irritates me:

Mortal - One who will eventually decay and die
Immortal - One who will remain as is for eternity (forever)

Now, when someone describes someone not of their path as "mortal", it's a false description as the follower of whatever path they're talking about is also mortal. Why? Because of the meaning of the word mentioned above. Mortal means one who will eventually die. We will ALL die at some point, either by accident, intent, or nature (my hope is by the last). No one on this earth is immortal, so when discussing "seekers" to whatever path you follow, use better words, like seeker, novice, newb, beginner, whatever, not stupid fictional nonsense like "mortal"...that make whatever topic you're discussing lose total credibility, especially by me! When I see "Mortals whom seek knowledge of the Violet Flame"...my first thoughts? Nutjobs watching too much fiction!

2) Misinformation is still misinformation
I have no problems with discussing Pagan related topics with other people, but when people willfully and adamantly assume that misinformation is the truth, I feel it's my responsibility to correct those mistakes (as it should be of anyone whose done thorough research, not just read the latest popular bunk website)

Even today, with the wealth of knowledge that is just at our fingertips, people can't seem to get it through their heads that Wicca is NOT an ancient religion. Why is this so difficult for people to grasp??? Wicca is not over 2,000 years old; Wicca is not a pre-Christian religion; Wicca is not a resurfaced "Old Religion". All these "theories" have been debunked and disproven so many times, why do people still think it's true?

I had an arguement with someone about this very topic the other day. Two people actually, and they adamantly argue that Wicca is a resurfaced religion that is over 2,000 years old. I...THINK...NOT!!

There is NO evidence to support there being a Wiccan religion before the 1950's. A word Wicca? Perhaps, but a word does not encompass an entire organized religional system (ya I know, it's not a word, lol). Their evidence that says Wicca did exist back then??? The Celtic holiday of Samhain. Roll On Floor, Laugh My Ass Off!!! For one thing, Wicca isn't Celitc, it's English. Secondly, Wicca didn't create Samhain, the Celtic did. Another "source" of "evidence"...the fact that Wiccans honor a "Horned God" that is now described as the Christian devil. Again, Roll On Floor, Laugh My Ass Off!! The idea of a Horned God leading up to the Christian creation of the Devil came from NUMEROUS horned god figures throughout history, not the horned god that happens to be honored/worshipped by Wiccans.

One fail after another. Repeating misinformation doesn't suddenly make it true.

3) Laurie Cabot, Christian Day and other Overly-Obvious "Witches"

Why do people feel the need to "Look" like stereotypical Witches? It just plays into the stupid...stereotype that we're trying to get away from.

Look at these people!!!

Comparatives:

Laurie Cabot and Christian Day (and various other so called "Witches" who wear too much eyeliner) - As stated...TOO much eyeliner, frizzy dirty looking hair, black cloaks, conical hats, "showmanship" spell work.

Actual Witches (i.e. Me and other inconspicuous Witches) - I wear a pair of jeans, a fairly common shirt, clean smooth hair, minimal makeup (I don't wear makeup unless I feel I look drab or it's a special occasion) . Sorry, the picture is dark, but the shirt I am wearing is brown, not black.

Apologies to these people, but I feel no need to "show" up my practices to make them seem "real". I have standards and have no need to be theatrical to be taken seriously. Again, my apologies to these people, but I take them less serious the more makeup and black clothing they wear, they just look ridiculous. Again my apologies if taken offense. It's bad enough we Witches have a hard enough time being taken seriously then have people like these claim they represent us Witches, when I do not see them as representing ANYTHING I stand for. To me they only represent the almighty $$.

Yet another thing that bothers me...their use of "angels" (at least I know "Christian Day" does, not sure about Laurie Cabot). Calling upon "Angels" in the use of the craft REEKS of Christian influences and just turns me off. Again, I have nothing against Christianity, I just don't want it intermingling with my Witchcraft. Angels have nothing to do with Witchcraft...never did. Again, a tired but necessary reiteration...Witchcraft has NO need for religious affiliations. It can be practiced perfectly well without it. Witchcraft didn't need angels, demons or Gods when it began, and it doesn't need them now. They can help, but are NOT needed!

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You know, if these people are "Real" Witches, then it makes me ashamed to carry the same label as them. If these people are representing my craft, I'm wholly embarrased by it. Why? They show that Witchcraft is nothing but a bunch of goth makeup, goth clothing, conical hats and useless acts. I wanted to embrace the term "Witch" because I thought it stood for something...that those who died because of that label didn't die in vain...but if you have silly, ridiculous people playing dress-up and calling themselves "Witches", that disrespects those who died such horrible deaths because of such a label, and makes a mockery of all they represented (and I don't mean being killed for stereotypical reasons, nor common Salem Trial reasons, but merely for being a loner in the woods, making medicine and food from herbs, creating their own candles and tools, etc). It's a mockery of my beliefs and practices and I am humiliated to be represented by them.

Blog Changes

I enjoy making videos when I can voicing my opinions on various subjects. It seems to get my point across much better than typing it out on a blog...sometimes by merely typing out my information/rants/etc, some things can get lost in translation. By making videos, what I mean can be clearly indicated.

This being said, some of my posts are going to be "vlogged" and posted here, with a redirection link to another page where you can read what I've said (for those who may not be able to hear as well (I like to try to accommodate everyone :) )). So some of the posts here may have been changed over to videos, but fear not, they're still out there in writing, and will be linked to :)

I've also added a page (more to come in the future) pretty much summing up my Book of Shadows posts. My other pages will discuss the MOST requested topics discussed/asked about by the majority of Pagans (Wiccan's and Witches) in a number of places, and will make redirection easier, not to mention be right there on top all the time for those who are looking for information on these specific topics.

Hopefully these changes make for a better blog. Again, please, any suggestions for my blog, don't hesitate to make. I make this blog not only to relieve my need to express concern or just to discuss, but is also made for YOU. I welcome anything anyone has to say (so long as it's respectful).

Enjoy :)

Ma'iingan

Teens: Do you know what Wicca is?

I really have no problems with anyone at any time or age changing their beliefs, religions, systems, whatever. If something really draws you to it, go for it. I say more power to you.

To the children (oops, sorry Teenagers) out there who have taken an "interest" in Wicca, I have a question for you:

1) What IS Wicca?

To me, many (if not most)* teenaged Wiccans out there haven't the first clue about what Wicca is. They see Charmed, Buffy or read Sweeps and think it's all about having magical powers, or making a silly Book of Shadows (as opposed to a practical one. See my posts on Books of Shadows on the sidebar for a look at legit books of shadows).

(*I will not say all because I'm sure there are a very few list of teenagers who come from legit Wiccan families and know what Wicca is)

I'm on YouTube...I have a few videos I've made (not many, but a few), and I frequent there numerous times. I LOVE looking at other people's creative ways of making their Books of Shadows...but recently I went and saw this young boy (didn't look much older than maybe 12 or 13) showing off his book. Amateurish? Yes, but whose isn't, especially when new. But the contents are FAR from what should be in a Wiccan's book.

Wiccans focus on deity worship. Their religion centers around the Gods. So it would make sense for a Wiccan's book to contain much information on the Gods (worship, rituals, prayers, etc)...I see many a "Wiccan"'s book on YouTube and it centers around spells, correspondences, tools, recipes...I maybe see a teensy section on the Gods, and they say this is a Wiccan's book.

**BEFORE** declaring you're a Wiccan (and this includes choosing a screen name carefully), be sure you know what Wicca entails to begin with. Wiccans (unless they're Wiccan Witches) focus very little on spells and potions. That's what Witches do and again, Witches are not Wiccan. If you look at my book, you'll see a LOT of information devoted to practical practices and skills. Why?? Because I'm not Wiccan**. The information contained within my book deals with MY practices...and those are of the practice of Witchcraft. So for my book to contain a "teensy" section on the Gods is practical for me because I focus on my craft, not religion (and not once do I say it's a Wiccan Book of Shadows).

A Wiccan Book of Shadows should reflect the religion of Wicca, and contain information on the generic God and Goddess, as well as whatever deities they individually follow, just as much as any other information.

(**While I'm not Wiccan, I continue to study the system because my eclecticism includes elements of Wicca (but not enough to warrant calling myself a Wiccan), which is why a there is a lot of references to Wicca in my blog. Just a clarification).

Spells...Christian??????

Ok...I've tried to let it go, but I just can't seem to be able to.

Apparently (this is news to me) throughout the past 2000 years, the "bulk" of spells created are Christian. Really? I directly quote (because 1) i love direct quoting 2) if I don't I get in trouble for misinterpretation): "in fact, the bulk of spells, rites and incantations from the past 2000 years have been, and still ARE Christian" That's interesting (and I realize this says "bulk" but to me bulk still means most if not the majority) considering not a single spell I've used or encountered really had anything to do with Christianity. OH, and another interesting thing...apparently Christianity DOESN"T look down on occult practices. I guess all the quoting I've done over the past 2 years since beginning this blog has been misquotes (even though they were ripped directly out of the very pages of the Bible).

How can one justify this quote? People have been KILLED for merely being accused of Witchcraft and spell casting for centuries (that's not talking about those who actually DID spell work and "witchcraft" which, long ago was still as harmless as it is today, but highly feared anyways)...BY those claiming to be Christian and representing the Church!

Rites and incantations are not necessarily copyrighted to Christianity either...rites and incantations have been around FAR longer than Christianity has been a thought. So, to state that the "bulk" of spells over the last 2000 years have been and still "ARE" Christian is total and utter (and I'll use the author of the quote above's favorite word...) NONSENSE!!

Ask any Witch...any REAL Witch practicing for decades (I'd say centuries but after roughly 100 years, people tend to die), how many spells they create or use are Christian in origins...I'm almost positive, they wont' agree with that.

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***UPDATE***

I think people do this just to piss me off...to continuously perpetuate something as fact....like our user's comment: "many spells are Christian" written within the last few hours

Native vs. Witch

I think I'm growing tired of the comparison between Natives and Witches. What Natives do is in no way related to what Witches do. Natives use plants, and ceremonies in such a different way than Witches do...I don't get it.

What is people's fascination with being Native (or any culture that isn't theirs...like African?) You can't just *poof* one day declare you're a Native simply because you *think* you practice Native ways. Being Native is in the blood (unlike Witchcraft). It's not just a bunch of rituals and beliefs that makes a Native a Native, it goes far beyond that. I know this because I AM Native. I come from a Native family that hold strong ties to their beliefs and practices as well as their culture.

In a sense I am a complete contradiction. I am a Native Witch...but I don't see that as being a tradition of Witchcraft or Native Americanism (or Canadianism in this case). I say I'm a Native Witch, because I am of Native ancestry. My mother is full Native, My aunts and uncles are too...as are many of my cousins; My Grandfather and Grandmother were full Native (may they rest peacefully and blessed); I am half Native...my father is of irish ancestry (probably where my love of my practice comes from considering some of his family were Druids). The Witch part comes into play because I CHOSE to practice Witchcraft. I decided to begin studying the ways and practices of Witchcraft, and continued from there. The contradiction lies in the fact that Natives hate the comparison to being Pagans. For me to say I'm a Native Witch is a contradiction if I were to use the label as a tradition (which I don't. I say the term to detail what I am and what I do)

Now, to continue with the rant. I aggrivates me to see people claim to be a "Native Witch" as though it were a tradition in and of itself. There's really no such thing as a Native Witch (here is the contradiction). It's not a real path. Natives balk at the mere thought of being labelled Pagan, much less be compared to Witches. Witchcraft is thought to have originated in Europe (generally where many "Witches" were said to have practiced). Natives largely inhabited the Americas, and resent the Europeans for what they did (hence the shudder when being compared to as Pagan).

It also aggrivates and irritates me when I see people who practice things like Wicca, having no real idea WHAT Wicca is, throw in bits and pieces from what they *think* is Native practices and beliefs and think it makes things legitimate.

I'm all for individuality, and uniqueness when people practice what they believe, but when you start making false claims about something, THEN I have a problem. Totems for example. Many Wiccans (particularly the teenagers) see someone talking about Totems and think to themselves "I want a totem too" so they go out and research bogus websites that tell them what their "totem" is (and it's ALWAYS a wolf, or a raven, or a bear or something popular like that), and they think cool, and Native so it's legit. I think not.

Totems come from grueling quests that push the body to it's limits. It's not something plucked from a website.

Names also aggrivate me. People seem to think that by taking on a "craft" name, it means creating a cheap knockoff, english version of native names...like Dances with Wolves or Stands with a Fist (to borrow names from a popular movie). Taking on a personal name doesn't mean you have to put together ridiculous words that TRY to sound Native. Come up with your own using IMAGINATION!

Sorry, but I'm just irritated at people's ignorance regarding the Native way of life. I reiterate. There's no such thing as a Native Witch (as a path or tradition). The only way one is a Native Witch, is if they are of Native ancestry, who just happen to practice Witchcraft. Dont' piss on my head and tell me it's raining. Don't sell me bullshit that there's some "Alliance" between Witches and Natives. I know better.

Mini-Mishmash

52 Topics again? Perhaps not as many again.

1) "I'm Lady Arianhrod Greenwood Moonseeker Willowbrook, Priestess of the Coven of Moon and Sunlight"

-I...have absolutely NO problems with people seeking out a personal name to use within a craft context. If someone wants to take on a new persona while working their ritual or whatever, more power to them. What I DO have problems with is the types of names people choose. Individuality is very important in such a craft, however I think people take individuality and uniqueness to a whole new (facepalm) level.

I'm sorry, but if I'm going to take on a name to use to communicate to my deity (even though I have no idea why I would need to as s/he would know me by my heart, not whatever name I go by), it's not going to be some silly, ridiculous name plucked from The Neverending Story or The Princess Bride. I'm all for individual names, unique names that no one ever thought of. If someone could come up with a name like "Arrwynn" or "Aeowynn" (sorry if I spelled them wrong) from Lord of the Rings BEFORE ever reading the story or seeing the movies, THAT would be individualism. Sunlight Moonshadow sounds like a name chosen with absolutely, positively NO thought whatsoever. Even the popular author "Silver Ravenwolf" seems to have put absolutely NO thought whatsoever into choosing her name. At least if I were to use my pen name as a personalized Pagan name for my craft my name, it would be truly unique (sort of). Ma'iingan is hardly a name heard very often. Ok, so it's not so unique considering Ma'iingan is Ojibwa for "Wolf", however it's a lot better than going around calling myself "Wolf".

People please (I call to those who are new to the craft, fresh spirits discovering something new yet old), PLEASE put thought into a name if you choose to get one (and please, do not be in such a rush to get one).

2) Confused Definitions

-We all know it...Witchcraft is the craft of the Witch. Wicca is the religion of Wiccans. Neither are one in the same thing. They are SEPARATE.

Here is a Picture Perfect example of why so many people are confused as to what a Witch and what a Wiccan is. A site that perpetuates the idea that they cater ONLY to "Real Pagans", chooses to carry on false definitions of what Witches are:

Source: http://realpagan.net/forum/topics/definitions-in-use-on-this

Firstly, the author "Shawn" (who admits to modifying this from a blog post by one "Sangraal") starts off with "British Traditional Witchcraft"...(aka Wicca...at least from the sounds of his definition). He states the most noted traditions IN this "Tradition" are Gardnerian, and Alexandrian. Both Wiccan traditions. Again, Wicca is NOT Witchcraft. Gardner called his religion a Witch Cult in the early beginnings, not WitchCRAFT.

Traditional Initiatory Witchcraft comes next, being both initiatory from lineage of an established tradition, but is not linked to the New Forest Clan. Still...the common traditions within this "Initiatory Witchcraft" are still Wiccan offshoots. Not Witchcraft.

Dedicatory Witchcraft is next, claimed to be "Neo-Wicca", "Solitary Wicca" or "Outer-Court Wicca". Again, Wicca isn't Witchcraft. Can we PLEASE stop confusing the two. All of these so-called definitions of "Acceptable" traditions only allowed on the site are NOT Witchcraft traditions...they are WICCAN traditions. Let's get it right people. (One reason why I will NOT join this site...they can't even get their definitions right).

Of Dreams and Things...(Warning: Disturbing Content)

I love it when I have very vivid dreams. So vivid I feel as though I have left myself and am actually living what I dream.

But recently I had one dream that I didn't like (perhaps one of many). It was of a terrible plane crash. It was a fairly small plane...perhaps the size of a personal jet. I had gone to a restaurant to eat, and began reading an article on a plane that had been hijacked. I had read that a woman had been shot, through her baby..that the chew toy the baby had, gone through the baby and into the mother (oddly enough, the article had claimed that neither were injured, weird). I was saddened to hear this, I felt tears welling up within. I looked up from my article only to see the plane in the distance going VERY fast. It was flying erraticly, and all over the place. I had come down VERY close to the ground then back up again...I had thought it was going to crash into a nearby hotel, but it had missed, only to come up and back around heading towards the restaurant where I and a few friends were sitting. I saw it heading straight for me and I thought to myself "I'm going to die in a fireball from this plane" and I had prepared myself to die.

The plane crashed within a few feet of the window from where I was sitting, and I saw fire shoot out from the plane, but the fireball didn't extend past much of the plane, and I was ok. It took a few minutes for the realization of what had happened to catch up to me. I began to cry a bit...realizing that a number of people who were living moments ago are all now dead.

The patrons of the restaurant walked slowly out the door and approached the airplane. Many commenting that they could see bodies and parts amid the wreckage and flames. I could see good sized spots of blood here and there. I began to cry harder. My friend wanted to go closer and I tried to go with her, but the closer to the plane I got, the harder I would start to cry...eventually it turned into a panic and I couldn't go closer, as I could see a foot in blood near the plane. I was terrified, saddened and disgusted at what I saw that I couldn't go any further near the plane.

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Now, whenever I have vivid, terrifying dreams like that, especially when I'm crying in my dream, I usually wake up covered in tears. This time I didn't. I'm no sure why...did I know it was only a dream? I've read that it's not good to interpret one's own dreams, but when I dream, I interpret them as though they were someone else's dreams and look at them objectively.

I'm at a loss though, as to what THIS dream could mean. Generally I would say the traumatic nature in this dream signifies something scary happening in my life...something I am witnessing that's frightening me to the point of almost panic. I look through what is happening in my life and at the moment I can't think of anything. I usually tell people that a death in a dream signifies an ending to a period in their life and a new beginning will emerge. Perhaps there is a traumatic end to a point in my life, and now things will emerge anew. The erratic plane however could signifiy that my path is coming off course. I'm erratic in walking it, not knowing where I'm going. This could be true...I often feel pulled in multiple directions and it leaves me confused.

I can only wish though, that my vivid dreams remain pleasant, or exciting, as much of what I see in my dreams I place into a story I'm writing that is already perhaps 2 years in the making. I've come to a stand-still and have no idea where my story will lead to from this point.

Religious vs. Spiritual

I had a discussion the other day with my sister-in-law on religion. She's a very set, yet open Catholic (nothing's going to sway her beliefs, but she IS open enough to understand someone else's point of view regarding belief and can accept them).

Now, the discussion went on to become about religion vs. spiritualism. Now, it wasn't a debate or anything heated, I just merely mentioned my idea about what religion is and what spiritualism is (to me).

Religion: I stated that my belief is that religion is created to tell people what to believe. Essentially that's true. Look at the Church. For centuries they have told people what they can and cannot believe in. The MUST believe the bible is the 100% true word of God, but mustn't believe in other Gods (even though they are out there). Religion services to hinder "free thought", even though they are given free will to make the choices they wish...however, if they choose something that goes against what the church believes, they're labelled a heretic and burned at the stake. Free will exists in the church so long as the followers choose what the church wants them to. It's not free will if one goes against the church...it's "Satan's Choice".

Spirituality: In my view, spirituality is the freedom to believe whatever you like and not be confined by the rules and regulations of organized religions. You can believe in Jesus if you like, but also see that other deities exist in the vast universe that is our home. You don't have to adhere to specified books, prophets, whatever to dictate what you can and can't believe because you have the true freedom to believe what you like. You have true FREE WILL. Whatever choices you make are your choices; not any churches, not any devils.

***(I've intentionally left this open ended as I feel this is a never ending topic that I may return to, to add more thoughts).

"Earth Hour"...Pah!

Ok. So I'm not all tree-huggy, activisting Pagan-y type who sheds a tear every time one tree falls in the woods. There are things I respect. I respect nature and what she can do, I respect the universe and the fact that it's random and chaotic. I respect that nature and the universe are powerful forces that we mere mortals can't even begin to grasp. But I think all this recent hype about "Earth Hour" and stuff like that is all a political ploy to tug at the heart strings of the bleeding heart types of Pagans and other types of people so concerned about the environment (once the government started saying stuff about "Global Warming").

I love my planet. I'll plant a tree, flowers, herbs; I'll pick up garbage, recycle, compost. But when you tell me that my turning off my lights for an hour one day a year is going to have a major impact on the planet? I'm calling faulty there. It's not being saved anywhere, why are people so naive. Once the lights come back on, what was "stored" gets sucked back up from the system again anyways. (Hey, did anyone see the YouTube video of the people who signed a petition to ban water, under the pseudonym "Dihydrogen Minoxide"(sp?), merely because someone gave it a technical, science-y type name that no one understood?? It was a hoax but one that proved a VERY good point...that people will sign or believe anything so long as it sounds technical and presented in a very serious tone. Check it out here).

What also gets my goat is...we're all told to conserve energy: turn off lights and electronics when not in use, turn off lights during the day, do laundry/washes at off peak hours...for what? So we can suck up the stored energy with these "Electric cars"? Ok, so what's going to happen when this "Apocalypse" everyone's so afraid of happens? Electric cars aren't going to get ANYONE anywhere. It'll be the gas-fuelled cars that get people who survive from place to place (and before anyone goes off on a tangent about not being able to pump gas without electricity...ever hear of suction power without the use of electricity? I think...it's called "Reverse Osmosis" or something similar (I'm not a sciency type person lol...I know there's a technical term for sucking liquid from one container to another using nothing more than gravity or something like that...I've seen it done).

While conserving energy IS a good thing...don't sell me, an eskimo, ice I don't need. Conserving energy stores up money in the wallet to pay for all the other crap that's going up in price (namely food and water). Don't tell me that saving an hours worth of electricity a year is going to do anything, cause I won't believe you.

School's In

My apologies for not making an entry in a few weeks...I had gone out East to Nova Scotia to my new little niece's baptism. Quite the occasion...people dressing up nice, and the event taking place on a Friget (a military cruiser ship). Both my sister and her husband being officers on ships similar wanted to carry on a maritime tradition of having their little one baptised on a ship. It was an interesting, different experience, one shouldn't do in heels or a long skirt/dress (I'll highly recommend against it, lmao). A lot of very steep stair/ladderways.

Anyways, I thought I would share, perhaps a review of my latest endeavour. I am currently taking classes at the "Firefly Academy"...it's a Pagan online school, welcoming people of different backgrounds and accepting the fact that not everyone believes in the same way; tolerant of people's unique beliefs. I'm glad I found this place. (You can find a link to the school on my sidebar)

I had been taking a crafting class that I really enjoyed (though some of the assignments are a bit difficult, particularly in my area...the gathering of natural items such as branches and pine cones is a bit difficult at this point in the season as snow is JUST melting, and wooded areas are still quite mushy). I had learned a lot and thought I'd perhaps share some of my crafty creations:

My Journal I had made (the brighter one). I had used about 4 sheets of 8.5 x 11 paper that I had folded and cut in half to make it about 5 x 8.5. I threaded through punched holes to make a small journal. Not sure what I'm going to do with it yet (this one wasn't particularly hard considering my past experience with book making...but it was one of my first assignments).

This is a sachet I made out of blue cloth (something I kinda stole from my son...a pair of pants that I doubt he'd have worn). I filled it with dried lavender and am now using it as a dream pillow, of which I stuffed into my pillow on my bed lol.

These are my runes. I wanted to make some out of glass rocks I had found at the dollar store, but paint and pen wouldn't stick to it, so I made some out of clay (it was part of my assignment anyways). I carved out the symbols and allowed them to dry. Now, to decide if I want to paint them or not.

These are but a couple of the assignments I was to do during this class, and I absolutely loved it. Such fun. Definitely recommend this class to anyone looking to be crafty...these projects are not at all hard to make.

Drug Use and Ritualistic Work

There are many cultures, groups, individuals, etc. who make regular use of drugs to enhance the sensations when performing ritualistic work. They feel that when they make use of drugs (albeit natural) this heightens their awareness of the interactions with the divine. Personally (and this is just my opinion, and doesn't reflect everyone), I think this is merely a fallacy, brought on by a chemical reaction in the brain, created to make us think we're encountering the divine, meanwhile experiencing nothing more than a hallucination.

Now I say this because I had my own encounter with a chemical reaction in the brain that I felt brought me closer to the divine, but upon further reflection, discovered this to actually be an offense. I wasn't actually interacting with the Divine (or my Goddess), but performing merely out of a drunken state. I had drank too much and felt this incredible urge to pray to my Goddess. I feel though, that in this state, I had offended her, as opposed to honoring her (and to her I continue to apologize). The euphoria I felt at this time wasn't the divine Goddess descending upon me, or calling to me, but the chemical reaction, mixed with the mere sight of my prayer beads that lead to my praying in a drunken state.

I feel that if someone wants to encounter the divine, they should be in as pure a state as they can be. I feel that the use of drugs to alter one's consciousness is a smokescreen, designed to make you think you're experiencing something that isn't even there. In a purer state of mind can one truly experience the divine, perhaps in a way that's much more powerful than any drug can induce.

The mere work that is involved in preparing oneself for this shifting consciousness can be a euphoria in itself, knowing that you're working hard to experience the divine through your own personal means, rather than a chemically induced state. The satisfaction of knowing that after all this work you can change your conscious state to that in which you can experience the divine at any time WITHOUT the use of drugs or other things can be a powerful feeling in and of itself.

Now I'm not going to be so naive as to believe that everyone is going to think this way. I know that for centuries tribes and cultures have regularly used drugs to enhance their spiritual experiences. However, I'm talking about those who use recreational drugs to enhance these experiences. Personally I think it's just an excuse to get high, then play with knives and fire. Can there really be a more dangerous combination?

In all practical senses, the use of drugs in ritual can be dangerous in and of itself. As stated, using knives while not 100% can be incredibly dangerous, especially if you are working with another person or in a group. The accidental stabbing of one can bring that person out of this "altered state" pretty quickly.

Fire can also be dangerous when in such a state. One is not fully conscious of their actions when high, and can accidentally knock over a candle, or fall into a bonfire and be seriously injured, if not killed. I think the irresponsibility of people today who try to justify the use of drugs in a ritualistic sense makes no sense to me. If I want to experience the divine, I don't need to use marijuana, salvia, or whatever other popular drug there is out there to do it. I merely need to work on altering my conscious state on my own to TRULY experience something so incredibly personal between me and my Goddess.

Blessed be, and be careful out there :)

Unbeaten Path's Goodies

Not sure how many of you have noticed my sidebar, aside from browsing links to my various topics. I also have listings to numerous tidbits I've found online that I recommend. Anything posted on my sidebar has been checked and approved by me.

Some things included on the side:

-Links to groups I'm a member of (though many not under the name I use here)

-Sites I highly recommend for more information

-Online schools I've attended (will recommend sticking to free classes, as opposed to ones you pay for, as with those, you get what you pay for)

-Book recommendations (books I've read)

-Other blogs

Feel free to browse these links as well, they're filled with lots of useful information...some of which I never thought of, lol.

Enjoy :)

2 Year Anniversary

'Tis the season for special days. Not only did I write my 100th post recently, today is the 2nd anniversary since beginning this blog. I'd hate to sound like a broken record, repeating my thanks to my readers, but it's because of them that this blog continues. I welcome feedback from those who follow me, but also those who don't. Suggestions, ideas, replies, corrections, etc are ALWAYS welcome. I love to blog...perhaps as much as I love to work on my Book of Shadows, lol.

Originally, I began this blog because I couldn't write what I wanted to in another blog. I had too many people who didn't know my path reading my previous blog, so I created this one dedicated to my path. It started with being a place to rant, but then I thought why not educate as well. As I have stated a number of times in previous blogs, I'm a member of numerous forums, sites and other places, and get the subjects of my blogs from them. I see numerous people asking the same questions over and over, and instead of repeating myself, over and over, I simply direct them to the same blog post, in the hopes of either helping or educating them. If someone states something on a forum I'm NOT a part of, I'll direct it here...perhaps someone could get some use out of it. I feel it necessary and important to clarify things I find in error. Some may disagree with my clarifications, but then that's not my issue. Belief is a funny little thing.

I thoroughly enjoy blogging...it feels good to get my thoughts out. Please feel free to comment, ask questions or just chat if you like with me. Enjoy my blog, here's to at LEAST another 2 years.

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY!!!

Ma'iingan

Reflections

I think I'll let my answers speak for themselves.
Sources: http://realpagan.net/profiles/blogs/pagan-meme;http://gleewood.org/threshold/2011/02/17/a-pause-for-some-background/#more-1124

Please describe briefly your Path:
The technical term for my path I suppose would be "Solitary Eclectic Non-Religio-Specific Pagan Witch". I'm eclectic because I incorporate elements from other belief systems into my own created belief system; I'm a solitary because I have no groups or covens in which I work with. Somewhat my choice because I like to work alone, however it's also not by choice as I have yet to find a group or coven in my area that won't take a tank of gas to get to. I refer to myself as being "Non-Religio-Specific" because I don't follow any specified religion. As stated above, I incorporate elements of other systems into my own, and some of those elements come from Native belief systems as well as other Pagan religions including Wicca. I don't follow any ONE religion, but a conglomeration of different ones including my own personal spiritual beliefs. I am Pagan because my path is nature oriented, and Pagan rooted. And I am a Witch simply because I practice Witchcraft.

Please describe briefly how you practice it:I practice in a variety of ways. While I believe in a Goddess, I will honor her through nightly prayers and semi-monthly ritual celebrations (though I am inconsistent in this because full and dark moons fall at times when I can't always practice alone). There will be times when I will participate in spell work or other craft related..."craftings" (lol).

When did you first commit to your Path?
I don't have the exact date committed to memory as through my path, I came to it on and off for a variety of...personal reasons. I will say that it is roughly about 10 years that I have been practicing.

How is your practice different now than it was then?When I started I was incredibly naive. I wanted the powers I seen in movies and thought that I could gain such powers, even in an instant. I quickly realized that these powers weren't real, however that didn't diminish my desire to learn more and practice. I wanted to know what it really entailed and properly practice. At the time I was a Wiccan and attempted proper Wiccan practices...however after time, I realized that numerous beliefs and ethics didn't sit well with me so I "evolved" (for lack of a better world) into my own interpretation. Now, I don't hold guilty thoughts when I cast for negative reasons and realize that what I put out **May** return, but I don't believe it returns in any pre-set form, nor do I believe that one can outright prevent doing any type of harm...period.

Is your practice different today than how you thought it would be back then?
Sort of. Back when I started I thought it was something I should keep secret...today there are so many people who are VERY open about their beliefs. Personally I'm not necessarily hiding, but I'm also not bragging about my beliefs either.

What is your heritage and how do

es this inform your Path?
I'm of Native Canadian Ancestry as well as of Irish heritage (with perhaps other ancestry mixed in there somewhere). Much of my knowledge of Native beliefs and practices are somewhat incorporated into my practices...I have always believed in animism (that everything has a soul), reverence for nature, some knowledge of healing and sacred "medicine" plants and the belief in a Creator. Recent discoveries (thanks to my father) have revealed to me the perhaps pre-destiny of my Pagan path, in that family members on my fathers side were Druids; the belief in Celtism somewhat intrigued me in the beginning, but not much of it has stayed with me (at least that I can recognize at this moment).

What are your main influences for your Path?
The main influences of my path are elements of Wicca and Traditional Witchcraft. Because I started my path with Wicca, much of the practices stayed with me (but much of the ethics left). I also go with intuitive practices and beliefs, that which I believe were practices centuries ago by "country dwellers" and forested Witches. Just because these are my interpretations of Witchcraft DOESN'T make them wrong!!!

Which do you do more: practice or research?
At this point, I do more research and study than I do practice...only because I have two small children who do not allow me to have time to myself, as well as a husband who must know what I'm doing all the time (I can assure my readers, i

t's not that he's controlling, it's that he's nosey).

However, I don't mind so much of this. I like to learn. I'm always on the look out for new things to learn. Soon enough I will be able to get back into practice as my youngest will be going to school soon and I will have quiet times for myself to re-begin practice.

Do you feel that one is more important than

the other?
No. I think each bring unique properties to the table. Research teaches the practitioner new and interesting ways of practising their craft or belief. Practice allows the practitioner to hone and perfect their craft so that they can do them flawlessly.

What values and ethics are important on your Path and in your practice?
I'd say the most important ethic to me is that of responsibility. While I'm not always the one to put up my hand when I've done something wrong, I am learning that any actions I do are my own doing and if anything goes wrong as a result of those actions, I must take responsibility. It's a learning process and I am human.

What sort of cycles do you feel your practice goes through?
My practice goes through the cycles of practice vs. study. There will be times I will go through periods of only study, others I will go through periods of practice. It would be nice if I could go through a period of both at the same time.

What is one of the greatest obstacles or struggles you have had to over come?

The biggest struggle I have (and currently still struggle with it) is my ability to not care what people think about my practice (particularly my husband). I know I have the right to believe what I want; I have freedom of religion and belief, but

things aren't that simple. To have to explain every detail of what I do takes up too much time and energy to have to do that on a daily basis. Again, with my husband being nosey, I'd have to explain what I'm doing, why I'm doing it, the fact that it's "weird" and that I'm a "weirdo" for doing it doesn't help me with my practice, particularly this practice that NEEDS confidence in order to work. With a nagging husband giving me negativity such as that, leads to more and more unsuccessful practice sessions...perhaps another reason why I'm in a cycle of study rather than practice

How do you see yourself practicing in ten years?
I would hope to be practising openly and regularly, perhaps teaching my children that Christianity is not the only path out there and that it ISN'T the only belief system out there that's right.

How do you incorporate your practice into your life?
At this point I pray and celebrate some esbats when I am able. I research local plant life growing in my area and am attempting to make my own essential oils for use in spell and ritual work.

Has walking your Path changed you as a person?
I like to believe I have gained somewhat more confidence with myself...I'm more opinionated and open, especially when I ask for strength from my Goddess. I feel less guilty when I do things and have actual thoughts and reasons for the negative things that happen in my life other than "The Devil caused/did it"

Do you consider yourself to be a priest/ess? How so?
Being the only practitioner in my particular path, I suppo

se I would be, however I don't feel I have enough study or practice to warrant carrying such a title.

A witch? How so?
I DO consider myself a Witch merely because I practice Witchcraft. I don't consider myself Wiccan as I don't adhere to the main ethical formats of the religion, but I fall under the Pagan umbrella.

A shaman? How so?
No. I don't consider myself a Shaman. I have my own opinions as to what a Shaman is, and that belief doesn't reflect a lot of other people's beliefs, however I

do not practice a Shamanic lifestyle, as by my definition, I would need a lot of personalized training

Which matters more: getting the vocabulary right or the actual practice of what we are trying to define?I...don't...really think either matters more. Both are important yes, but not mandatory. Lately I have been having troubles with my speech (my brain thinks faster than my mouth can move), so I sometimes mess up what I'm trying to say, and sometimes I get forgetful and forget key components of my rituals, be it candles, cauldron, needed ingredients/herbs/oils/etc... so I have to stop what I'm doing to get these items. So long as the underlying meaning is there, and I ultimately complete what I'm doing, how it's done and

what I say don't really matter to me.

One of the most profound things anyone ever said to you was:
I'll have to come back to this one

A defining moment on your Path was:
The death of my son. That was the point I knew I needed something more. I needed more answers, and Christianity wasn't willing to give me those answers. They just wanted me to accept that it was "God's Will" and be done with it, and that wasn't enough for me

Have you ever taken a “leap of faith”?
At this point? I don't think so.

Please tell us something stupid, reckless or embarrassing you did once in your practice:
I've burned myself with candle wax. I was attempting meditation and a sales person came to my door. It scared the hell out of me and I rushed to blow out my candles. In my haste I gathered up my candles to put them away and spilled liquid wax on my hand. It hurt like hell, lol. Did I learn my lesson? Yes. Practice in a private room...not in the open, like in my living room, lmao.

What is the most frustrating thing about your Path?
The fact that it's not widely accepted, that I can't simply live my path without overly opinionated people trying to convince me my path is a one way ticket

to hell.

Have you ever been frightened?
Absolutely. Even today I sometimes am frightened by my own practices, but that's just because echoing former beliefs seep to the surface.

Can you perform ritual without a script?

Because I don't regularly practice, I must continue with a script. I am in the processes of putting my rituals into some sort of book form so that it's easier for me to read during ritual, until I learn it all by heart.
Have you ever preformed spontaneous magick/spellcraft?
I have, but even that had to be structured, and took some time for me to perform.

What are you still exploring or experimenting with?
Spell work. I would like to practice more spell work but can't think of reasons to practice them for.

What (or whom) are you the most committed to in your practice and on your Path?
Perfection of my path. Educating myself and others on what Witchcraft (and yes even Wicca) actually is.

Ritual tools are …

Unnecessary but are nice to have. I love utilizing tools in practice because it makes me feel powerful. I can practice perfectly well without them but given the choice, I'd probably choose using my tools

Magickal tools are …

See above

Seeking personal power is …
Important. Without it, my path is useless.

Politics and your Path are …
Incompatible.

One thing you wish people would understand about your Path and/or practice is:
That it's nothing evil, nor is it what's shown on tv or in movies. Witches aren't evil; Witches have no supernatural powers; symbols have no inherent powers of their own; spell work isn't done merely to bring demise and destitution to people's lives, etc.

Do you teach?
No. I don't feel I have gained enough knowledge to teach. Other's may feel differently, but I wouldn't know where to start.

What do you feel is the role of clergy in modern Paganism and Heathenism?
The role of Clergy in any belief system is roughtly the same...to provide spiritual assistance when needed

When the Veil (or Hedge!) is thin, how does that feel to you?
I'm not sure. I don't recognize that the Veil is thinned at a particular time, however Samhain (October 31) has always felt like a powerful night to me. I always feel a burst of energy whenever Halloween/Samhain comes around.

What entities do you work with most? (ancestors, gods, fae etc)
Currently the only entity I work with is my Goddess, Hecate. At times I work with the elements but that's only during circle castings and ritual work.

What is your relationship with the Land?
I hold respect for it, however I don't connect to it as often as I should.

The main purpose of ritual is:

The most important aspect of ritual is:
Belief, concentration, focus

What is the purpose of divination/dowsing (or whichever form of augury you use)?
I don't really use any form of divination. I dabbled in pendulum dowsing, and attempt to read Tarot now and then, but have far from perfected those crafts.

What was the most difficult book you ever read? (Either difficult to understand or hard to face what it said or both)Raymond Buckland's "Complete Book of Witchcraft". For some reason I cannot get past the tools. I also cannot get through Phyllis Currott's "WitchCrafting". I just find both books difficult to read.

What book do you recommend the most to others?
Scott Cunningham's "Wicca" and "Living Wicca", as well as "The Complete Idiots Guide to Wicca and Witchcraft" I find these books to be the most easiest to read and comprehend books out there...especially for those freshly new.

What is you favourite podcast (if any) and favourite blog (other than your own)?I don't listen to podcasts, nor do I have a favorite blog.

If you could impart only one last piece of wisdom or knowledge, or share one experience with the world at large, what would it

be?That Witchcraft and other Pagan religions are just as fulfillin

g as any of the three major abrahamic belief systems. Everyone has their own beliefs and those beliefs don't always reflect what another may believe. Let everyone believe what they believe. They don't need you trying to "save" their soul. Doing so does nothing for either party...it doesn't guarantee you the seat next to Jesus, nor does it necessarily save anyones soul from anything they themselves have created within.

Please finish this meme with a picture, image or photograph of some sort:

Artist unknown

Experiment Update!!

Well, it's 3 days later since letting my concoction sit. It's actually turning out pretty well. I can still smell a bit of the olive oil, but the clove scent is growing stronger.

I strained out the cloves to leave a clear oil, then crushed up another maybe tablespoon of more cloves and added it to the pre-scented oil. I'm going to leave it another 3 days, hopefully it will be as strong as I would like it.

This oil is a mere experiment to see how well this form of oil making works. I may document better my next experiement if this one turns out as well as I think it will. I'm thinking of making a lavender oil next.

However, I do believe a shopping trip is in order for perhaps tomorrow. I may need a new mortar and pestle...the one I have seems too big for me (at least the bowl is...it's perhaps the size of a cereal bowl...but deeper).

Updates will come :)

100th Post!!!

Wow, it's hard to believe this is my 100th post. Since the beginning of my blog, I've written about a lot of topics, and I have gotten a LOT of great feedback (and a few not so great).

I just want to say thank you to my subscribers for taking time to come back again and again, to read what I have to say. Without all of you, I'd be talking only to myself, and that's no fun :P :)

I can only hope my next 100 posts are just as informative, entertaining and therapeutic as my last, lol.

Thank you all
Big, big hugs
Ma'iingan

Time to Experiment!!

I'm trying out yet another experiment, however this one is more chemistry than construction :D. I'm attempting to make Essential Oils.

Now, a few years ago I tried making my own oils, but it didn't turn out too well (I think it was perhaps because I didn't use the right ingredients). After a few years, I decided to get off my butt and try again (what's the old saying? When you fall off the horse, get right back up and try again?)

I am attempting to make a Clove oil. I used roughly about 1/4 cup olive oil and about 1-2 tablespoons of cloves. I poured the oil into my mortar and pestle and added the cloves, and crushed them together. I after about 5-10 mins of crushing, I could start smelling the scent of cloves. I may however have to add more cloves, but that's just details.

I got the instructions from a site I sometimes go to for information: Blessed Be Online Wiccan Resource. Normally, instructions I have found online simply say to put the herbs in oil and let it sit for weeks. I think that was another part of my problem the first time around...the waiting period made me forget about them. With this recipe, I still have to wait, but I don't have to wait weeks, only about 4 days.

I'm really hoping this works. I'll keep you all updated :)